It’s easier to place it in the area of its namesake, but in reality, Pismo State Beach comprises three different beaches spanning across three neighboring towns: Pismo Beach, Grover Beach, and Oceano. The part of Pismo State Beach that is actually in Pismo Beach is more commonly known as North Beach. It’s a popular spot for camping, surfing, swimming, and birdwatching, and it’s the migratory destination of a monarch butterfly population every winter
Each section of Pismo State Beach has its own unique attractions, but all of them offer the beautiful solitude of nature with absolutely incredible ocean views. Come for the day or stay for a week, either way you won’t want to leave when your time is through.
Location
North Beach: 399 S Dolliver Street in Pismo Beach
Grover Beach: 25 W Grand Avenue in Grover Beach
Oceano: 555 Pier Avenue in Oceano
Activities
Swimming, sunbathing, surfing, kiteboarding, fishing, birdwatching, camping, horseback riding, golf, clam digging, hiking, and walking.
Cars are allowed on the sand at Pismo State Beach.
Dogs are allowed on beach provided they are leashed.
From October to February, North Beach Grove is full of thousands of monarch butterflies that have migrated south for the winter.
Amenities
Restrooms, showers, campgrounds, hiking trails, boardwalk, picnic tables, restaurant, golf course, and accessible features.
Note: amenities vary from beach to beach.
There’s a fee you must pay to drive your vehicle on the beach. Free parking is available depending on which beach you’re parking at.
Nearby Attractions
Pismo Beach Pier is a short walk north of North Beach. Go there to fish or for a scenic walk with spectacular ocean views. The nearby beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, paddleboarding, birdwatching, and clam digging. It has volleyball nets, picnic benches, restrooms, showers, and a playground.
The Pismo Beach Golf Course overlooks Pismo State Beach. It’s a par-3, 9 hole course with unbelievable ocean views. Definitely check it out if you’re into golf.
Fun Facts
Pismo Beach is home to the Pismo Clam, which were over-harvested for years, which led to a drastic reduction in their population. Only recently have they begun to resurface in the area, though they are still too small to legally collect.
Pismo Beach has been referenced many times in pop culture, from the movie Clueless, to shows like I Love Lucy, Robot Chicken, and Futurama to Bugs Bunny’s mention of not only the beach, but its famous clams, in a Merrie Melodies short.