Located on the Central Coast of California, Pismo Beach is a popular destination for beachgoers, surfers, and nature enthusiasts.
One of the main Pismo Beach is the sand dunes, which stretch for miles along the coastline. The dunes offer a unique landscape and plenty of recreational activities, including off-road vehicle riding, hiking, and sandboarding.
Pismo Beach is wide and sandy, making it a great spot for our family beach adventures –especially our grandkids! There are also several volleyball courts and picnic areas available for us to use.
Surfers flock to Pismo Beach for its consistent waves and breaks, offering waves for all levels of surfers, from beginners to experienced riders. Several surf shops in the area offer rental boards and lessons.
The Pismo Beach pier is a popular spot for fishing, as it is home to a variety of fish species, including halibut, perch, and rockfish.
As we wander the streets near the main part of the beach, we ponder where to eat among the diverse dining options. Often we select a quaint cafe that boasts fresh seafood, savoring the year-round, melt-in-your-mouth fish and chips (Cod or Halibut) at Pismo Fish and Chips. We also love The Cracked Crab, a local favorite serving up a wide variety of seafood options, from crab and lobster to shrimp and scallops in a casual atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, Ventana Grill offers a stunning oceanfront view and a menu that features fresh seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes. Splash Cafe, a local institution known for its award-winning clam chowder and fish and chips is a great choice, too. If you’re not in the mood for seafood, Giuseppe’s Cucina Italiana is another popular restaurant, serving up authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Once we’ve had our fill of yummy food, we love to snag a spot on a bench perfectly suited for people watching, or explore the Pismo Beach shopping scene. The city has a variety of boutiques and specialty shops, offering everything from clothing and jewelry to souvenirs and gifts. I often find I can’t live without at least one of the unique items for sale at the Cottage Gallery, which features a selection of handcrafted pottery, jewelry, and home decor from local artisans. Today it was a blue hat with a jaunty bow… 🙂
I also love to browse the Vintage Emporium, a treasure trove of antiques and collectibles, featuring everything from furniture and decor to vintage clothing and jewelry. Beach House Antiques is another must-see spot for me! I often find the perfect vintage buttons at one of these places to add to my button collection.