TRAINING TIPS FOR TRAVELING
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September 21, 2020
Time to travel with your pup? Check out some of the training tips below to make traveling a little easier. READ MORE
Training Tips for Traveling By Becky Pesicka, CPDT-KA, CNWI Teach Bark/Quiet If you have a dog that barks, you are probably used to yelling everything under the sun in an attempt to get your dog to quiet down. Some tricks you’ve tried may have been more successful than others, but none are as successful as properly teaching a Quiet cue. Note – Quiet is used for dogs that are barking at noises, people coming to the door, or boredom. If your dog is barking reactively or aggressively to other dogs or people when out on walks, that is a separate issue and you’ll need to consult a qualified trainer to work on that behavior. To teach Quiet so your dog has complete understanding of the word, you will actually need to first teach your dog to speak on command. I know what you are thinking, if my dog already barks so much, why on earth would I teach barking more?! The answer is that dogs do not learn the absence of something, but then can learn opposite behaviors when paired together. So in order for your dog to understand that Quiet means the absence of barking, you will need to teach Bark on cue so both behaviors can be done back to back, and then you can make Quiet the more desirable or rewarding behavior. Find a noise that you can make happen on purpose for training. For example, using the doorbell or knocking on the front door if that elicits immediate barking from your dog. Get a mix of high value treats (something REALLY yummy, like cheese, hot dogs or cooked chicken) and low value (kibble or store-bought treats that your dog likes less than the high value). The sequence is “Speak” – Knock – Deliver low value treat – “Quiet” – deliver high value treat. So you will say “Speak” first (or whatever cue you want) then make the noise that will produce barking. Now deliver the low value treat so your dog is getting reward for barking with the word association. As your dog stops barking to chew the treat, say “Quiet” and then deliver the high value treat. Repeat this 5-10 times until your dog is anticipating the sequence and either not barking at all to the noise or anticipating the Quiet cue and reward. At that point you will say “Speak” and make the sound that gets the barking, but then stop rewarding barking and ONLY reward for the “Quiet” sequence. This way your dog starts off getting rewarded for both behaviors, but already with a treat discrepancy. Then when you stop rewarding for barking and only reward for quiet with the super yummy treat, it is immediately apparent to your dog what the more rewarding behavior is. Desensitize to noises In conjunction with teaching a Quiet command, desensitizing your dog to various noises is a great idea. There are phone apps and YouTube videos of a bunch of different noises that generally elicit barking from dogs, so find whatever it is that gets a reaction and start there. You will play the sound on the lowest level that your dog notices. If your dog is already barking at the sound then it’s too much and won’t be helpful for training. So as soon as your dog’s ears prick up that they heard the low noise but BEFORE they start barking is the moment you should reward for being quiet. Your dog will learn that hearing things without barking is rewarding and gets attention (when usually it accidentally gets ignored by us). As your dog habituates to the sound and starts anticipating treats, increase the sound slowly and continue training until your dog is relaxed hearing noises at full volume. This training will be extremely helpful in preventing your dog from barking at all different hotel noises, such as guests coming in late to their room, the cleaning service outside, knocks on the door, etc. Wait at the door Wait is a temporary pause used for the front door, car door, side gates, etc. At a door or gate, place your dog in a sit (this can also be done with your dog standing or laying down). Your dog should be far enough away so that you can completely open the door without hitting them. Start opening door and if your dog moves forward then immediately close it and try again. The game is that when your dog waits and stays still, the door opens. If your dog moves and gets up then the door closes. Use a release word (ex. Ok) to allow your dog to move through the door or jump out of the car. If teaching initially at a door that leads to an unfenced area, put your dog on a leash for safety so you can grab it if they try to run. Recall Here’s a fun game to play that will teach your dog to come when called, it’s called Ping Pong Puppy and your dog will become the “ping pong” ball. Two or more people can play this game which is fun for also reinforcing recall. Each person should be loaded up with yummy treats. Start playing this first in a low-distraction environment, such as your house or yard. The first person calls the dog’s name ONCE, very enthusiastically (the duller or grumpier you sound, the less likely your dog is to come!). Reward when your dog comes to you. Now the first person will turn away and ignore the dog and the next person can call the dog and reward. The game goes back and forth with your dog ping ponging back and forth. Once your dog is easily running back and forth, start saying your dog’s name and your recall word (“Fluffy Come”). Start a short distance away so your dog can be successful and learn the game, then progress to increased distances, people calling from out of sight, and in different locations with added distractions around. Leash Walking When walking your dog, a loose leash is a Green Light = Go! A tight leash is a Red Light = Stop! There are two types of equipment that can help reduce pulling, a front-clipping harness and a head halter (like a bridle on a horse). Bring your HIGH-value treats on the walk, soft, smelly and super yummy). Your dog does not work for free and the treat will help you be more interesting than the environment. While on the walk, if your dog pulls or the leash becomes tight AT ANY POINT, immediately stop, hold the leash tight, and wait for your dog to come back to you or to take a step back and release the tension of the leash, then immediately continue with a loose leash. Important: DO NOT pull your dog back. Instead, wait for his action, and then reward or praise, and continue with your walk. Waiting may take a while, in the beginning, depending on the level of distraction around, so be patient. Remember to reward anytime your dog is not pulling with verbal praise or a treat. Reward any eye contact. Be patient. You are not going to get very far initially, but your dog will soon get the idea. It is important not to give up and just let him pull you. Focus on the Quality of the walk, not the Quantity (for example, nice loose leash walking the whole time but it was a shorter walk) Training Tip: Don’t allow your dog to greet other dogs or people while on leash. This will encourage PULLING with a huge reward (play or pets). |
Trip Prep Before you Travel with your dog
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August 14, 2020
Ready to take a trip with the whole family? (We can include your 4 pawed furry friends in this one!) Make sure you check out our blog post for tips and tricks while traveling with your furry friends. READ MORE
Trip Prep Before you Travel with your dog By Becky Pesicka, CPDT-KA, CNWI Traveling with your doggie best friend can be one of the most fun and rewarding adventures. When everything goes smoothly, you and your dog will love getting to explore new places. But, it can be frustrating, scary, and potentially dangerous when things don’t go according to plan. To help ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible, below are some tips for before your trip. Training Make sure your dog has some training. For example, if your dog has a habit of bolting out of open car or room doors, then teach a Wait at the Door command so that your dog does not escape in an unfamiliar location or at a busy rest stop by the highway. If your dog is prone to barking or is noise sensitive (would bark at a neighbor room door closing or people talking in the hallway) then desensitize your dog to noises and train a Quiet command. Loose Leash walking is also a good behavior to train so that when you are exploring new areas, or on local hiking trails, it is a pleasant experience for both of you. Car Travel If your dog doesn’t love being in the car or gets car sick, address this before starting a trip. Sometimes changing where your dog sits in the car can help curb car sickness, such as moving from the back to the middle seats, or vice versa. It can be different for every dog so play around and see what works. If your dog is nervous in the car, practice doing short car rides or getting your dog more comfortable by eating meals in the car without the car moving anywhere. Doggie Info Take a grab bag of all your dog’s info. This should include a recent picture of your dog, a copy of their medical records, an allergy list and any medications your dog is on. Your dog’s tags should be current and securely attached to the collar and microchip information should be up to date with a current phone number. Dog collars or harnesses should be properly fitted and tight enough so that only two fingers fit underneath. This helps prevent your dog from slipping out of a loose collar if they get scared at all. If your dog is prone to bolting, consider using a martingale collar. These collars are specifically designed to help prevent a dog slipping out. The Sea Crest provides a doggie bed for your use, but if your dog is unsure in new places, bringing a familiar towel or blanket to put on the bed can help your dog feel more comfortable. Dog Food Pack plenty of your dog’s food, including some extra in case the local area doesn’t carry your dog’s specific brand. Having extra is also helpful if travel plans are delayed or you decide to extend the trip. If your dog is a chow hound and will steal food, make sure it’s not accessible at any time in the car or hotel. Exercise Your dog will likely need more exercise if you are traveling in the car a lot, or if they are used to running around in your backyard during the day. Long road trips are fun but make sure to allow for breaks in the trip and plenty of time walking around the hotel to help your dog acclimate. Luckily the Sea Crest hotel in Pismo is extremely dog-friendly. With beautiful lawns and a walking path down to the beach, you will have plenty of area to explore and exercise. Mental Stimulation To supplement physical exercise, bring some puzzle or enrichment toys for your dog to eat meals from to help exhaust them mentally. All dogs need a combo of physical exercise and mental stimulation both to be happy and healthy. Mental Stimulation is training, puzzle toys, searching for food, etc. It should engage the nose and the brain. 30% of a dog’s brain is dedicated to scenting, so it is an incredibly important resource. Feeding your dog all meals out of a puzzle toy is an easy way to add extra mental stimulation into your dog’s daily routine. This can be something like a Bob-a-Lot or Kong Wobbler, a snuffle mat, a treat scatter outside, etc. When in doubt, offer MORE mental stimulation, it will help exhaust your dog. Teaching your dog how to play Nose Work, a scenting game, is also a fun idea. Initially teach your dog to search for hidden food or toys, then progress to searching for target odors. Off Leash Areas Research any doggie off leash areas ahead of time and do not let your dog off leash in an area you are unsure about. In San Luis Obispo County we have some amazing hiking trails that are dog-friendly, but all require dogs to be on-leash for the entire hike. This is largely due to the popularity of our area and trails and the local wildlife we have (rattlesnakes, ticks, coyotes, mountain lions, etc.). There are a couple beaches and dog parks around that are off leash friendly, but otherwise please respect local leash laws. This is for your dog’s safety and the safety of others. Even if your dog is very friendly, you never know what the other person might think or feel (they might be afraid of dogs, have been recently attacked, allergic, etc.). Heat & Travel Consider the time of year you are traveling and where you will stop along the way to your destination. If you are traveling alone and it is very hot during summer time, you will need to plan where you will take potty breaks or get food for yourself, if there is nowhere dog-friendly around. Many gas stations and rest stops will have a patch of grass or dirt for your dog to go potty, but gas stations are not dog-friendly so you will need to plan to leave your dog in the car (faking your dog as a service dog is not a good option as it’s illegal, unethical, and often has ramifications for disabled people who really do need their service dog to help.). An aluminum shade cloth is a great idea for those times when you need to leave your dog in the car for a short period and it’s warm outside. You can purchase one from most dog sport websites as they are used a lot for agility and nose work trials. It is a flexible meshy aluminum cover that goes over your car and dramatically cools down the interior. You will need to secure it so it doesn’t blow off. Window guards are another option so the windows can be left down but your dog cannot get out and nobody can get it. Heat Stroke Heat stroke is a very serious and life threatening condition for dogs, but luckily is preventable. Heat stroke is where your dog’s core temperature gets too hot, into a critical range that can cause organ damage and death. Dogs normally have a higher temperature than humans, typically around 101 to 102 as a baseline. So critical temp for dogs can be 104 and higher. Make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water and do not exercise or walk your dog during the heat of the day, especially if your dog is brachycephalic dog (smushed face like bulldogs or boxers) senior or very overweight. Always check the ground before getting out or walking your dog when it’s hot. Ground temps can get very hot very fast and burn and blister your dog’s paws. If your dog is quickly picking up different paws then that means it’s too hot and they are burning. If you can’t put your hand down for more than 15 seconds then the ground is way too hot for your dog’s paws. If you think your dog is overheating, get them water immediately and into a cool area. Try to cool the body down as quickly as possible, using water, wet towels, etc. and call a vet. First Aid Kit Stocking a first aid kit in the car is always a good idea, but make sure you have one for your dog as well. Doggie first aid kits usually have bandages and a plastic bootie for covering cuts on the foot, emergency nail clippers for a broken nail, an ice pack, etc. Make sure yours has a muzzle that fits your dog in case your dog is injured and becomes aggressive during treatment and styptic powder to stop bleeding surface cuts or broken nails. Corn Starch is a good substitute for styptic powder. Fleas If your dog has fleas, get that resolved before traveling so you are not spreading them to the hotel for the next dog to pick up. |
Your Last-minute summer getaway guide to pismo beach
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September 14, 2018
If you’ve been staring longingly at other people’s summer vacation photos while sitting in your frigid air conditioned office for weeks-on-end, there’s still hope for you. Labor Day may have come and gone but summer’s not over yet. Read more
If you’ve been staring longingly at other people’s summer vacation photos while sitting in your frigid air conditioned office for weeks-on-end, there’s still hope for you. Labor Day may have come and gone but summer’s not over yet. It’s time to hang up that old office sweater and plan yourself a last-minute summer getaway. Not sure where to go? With fewer crowds and sunnier skies, September is one of the best months to visit Pismo Beach. Since (summer)time is of the essence, we’ve put together this guide of everything you’ll need for an enjoyable Pismo Beach vacation—so you can spend less time Googling and more time relaxing. 1. WHERE TO STAY With so many Pismo Beach Hotels to choose from, it can feel overwhelming to choose one. If you’re looking to experience Pismo Beach like a local but enjoy kicking your feet up with a poolside ocean view, too, SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel is the perfect spot. Okay, so we might be a tiny bit biased, but for good reason. The SeaCrest has one of the best ocean views in Pismo Beach and all the amenities to make your last-minute summer vacation one to remember. We welcome you and the whole family—Fido included—with open arms. 2. WHERE TO EAT Once you’ve arrived and settled into your room, treat yourself to a dinner out on the town. You deserve it! There’s no shortage of outstanding restaurants in Pismo Beach but for a short trip, we recommend indulging in one of these exceptional culinary experiences. Willow Kitchen & Cocktails: While we’re being biased, why don’t we suggest walking straight across the parking lot from the SeaCrest and landing yourself a spot at Willow Kitchen & Cocktails? With a wide menu selection and excellent, yes, you guessed it, cocktails, Willow is fast becoming a guest favorite. Ventana Grill: Serving Latin-inspired dishes, fresh seafood, and tasty house cocktails with panoramic views of the Pacific, Ventana Grill has one of best locations in town. Get there early to snag a window table or enjoy a drink on the wrap-around balcony while you wait. The Oyster Loft: Located right next to the Pier in Pismo Beach, The Oyster Loft is the place to go when you’re looking to treat yourself to ocean views and refined seafood, raw-bar fare, steaks and drinks. Reservations are online here. Cracked Crab: If you’re up for a one-of-a-kind culinary experience, Cracked Crab is for you. As the name implies, their specialty is crab and other in-season shellfish … by dumping it on your table. But don’t worry—they provide all the tools you need to get the job done, plus a bib for your shirt and inviting atmosphere. Giuseppe’s Cucino Italiano: What started as a Cal Poly senior project has since grown into one of San Luis Obispo finest Italian restaurants. Adored by locals and travelers alike, Giuseppe’s serves farm fresh, authentic Italian dishes in a sophisticated-yet-cozy dining room located in the heart of Pismo Beach. 3. WHERE TO DRINK The central coast has long been known for its excellent wines but, more recently, the craft beer scene has been making a name for itself, too. You’ve probably heard of Firestone Walker. Guess what? Their tasting room is just up the 101 in Paso Robles! Whether you’re a wine lover or craft beer connoisseur, there’s something here for you. Make a day of it and go wine or beer tasting around town. Wine tasting in Edna Valley: Located just minutes inland from Pismo Beach, Edna Valley boasts more than 30 local wineries—all of which are within 20 minutes of each other. Roll the windows down and cruise through the scenic backroads, or book a winery tour, for a day of sipping and savoring. Hop On Beer Tours: For the beer lovers, Hop On Beer Tours offers chauffeured tours to the best brewery tasting rooms on the central coast. You can choose from their Paso Robles tour, San Luis Obispo tour, or create your own custom itinerary. (They do wine tours or mixed beer and wine tours, too.) 4. WHAT TO DOAfter a day of wine or beer tasting, make some time to soak up all the natural beauty the central coast has to offer. You don’t have to drive (or even walk) far for rolling waves, golden hills, and breathtaking views. Hit the Dunes: If you’re feeling adventurous, head three miles south of Pismo Beach to the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, where you can drive right onto the beach. Fun fact: this is the only California State park where vehicles are welcome. Four-wheel or all-wheel drive is recommended to stay out of the trenches. You can also rent an ATV and do some real off-roading in the dunes. Relax on the beach: Not in a thrill-seeking mood? No worries. Head to one of the many scenic beaches nearby for a day of relaxing in the sun. The beach is down the staircase from the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel and if you’re feeling adventurous the Pismo Beach Pier is about a 15-20 minute walk. Shirt and shoes optional. Swimsuit and sunscreen recommended. Hike the Avila Ridge Trail: There’s more to Pismo Beach than, well, just beaches. Less than a 10-minute drive north, you’ll find the Avila Ridge Trail—a local favorite for hiking. The initial climb is steep but the view is worth it. Once you reach the top, you’ll traverse the coastline with 360 degree ocean views along the entire trail. Plan two days to soak it all in and step into autumn feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Book your room at SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel and let the countdown to your last-minute summer getaway begin! |
4 Ways to celebrate "Eat outside Day" in Pismo beach
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August 28, 2018
The central coast of California is known for beautiful weather, enticing locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors all year-round. Just for fun, August 31 is Eat Outside Day—and we can’t think of a better place to celebrate than Pismo Beach. Read more
The central coast of California is known for beautiful weather, enticing locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors all year-round. Just for fun, August 31 is Eat Outside Day—and we can’t think of a better place to celebrate than Pismo Beach. Whether you prefer picnics or patios, classic BBQ or seasonal local dishes, here are four ways you can greet the outdoors while enjoying a meal under the sun. 1. PACK A PICNIC IN PISMO BEACH Located on the grounds of the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel, Willow Kitchen and Cocktails offers many to-go items that are perfect for a picnic on the beach. Choose from a variety of deli sandwiches, meats and cheeses, salads, and cold drinks to grab on your way down to the sand. And don’t forget to pick up a bottle of local wine from their incredible collection. Alternatively, take a five-minute drive north from the SeaCrest to DePalo & Sons Market—a local Pismo Beach favorite stocked daily with a smorgasbord of delicious picnic staples. Stop by for fresh-made Italian sandwiches, deli salads, and snacks to-go. The fresh mozzarella is some of the best in town. From here, you can walk down Solano Road to Spyglass Park and snag an ocean view picnic table or follow the signs to the sandy beach below. The park is equipped with BBQ areas, free parking, restrooms, and a playground for the kids. 2. DINE AL FRESCO ON A RESTAURANT PATIO There’s no shortage of restaurants with outdoor seating in and around Pismo Beach. Looking for a healthy breakfast before you hit the beach? The centrally located Honeymoon Cafe serves up coffee and locally-sourced ingredients on a sun-drenched patio. Vegetarian and vegan options are a bonus for the herbivores. In the mood for laid-back Mexican food? Grab a hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner under a canopy of festive umbrellas at Zorro’s Cafe & Cantina. For a romantic dinner date, head to Ember in nearby Arroyo Grande or The Spoon Trade in Grover Beach for unique menus consisting of eclectic and seasonal dishes served under twinkle lights. Wherever you choose, you can’t go wrong with the local culinary scene. 3. WORK FOR IT WITH THE TRI-TIP CHALLENGE What is the Tri-Tip Challenge? If you guessed three hikes followed by a meaty tri-tip sandwich all in one day, you guessed correctly. The Tri-Tip Challenge is perfect for anyone who prefers an active adventure over a leisurely beach day. The challenge entails hiking San Luis Obispo’s three iconic trails—Bishop Peak, Cerro San Luis (also known as Madonna Mountain), and the Cal Poly “P”—before indulging in a sauce-smothered tri-tip sandwich from the popular Firestone Grill in San Luis Obispo. Prepare for a full day of breathtaking views and mouth-watering bites. Don’t forget to pack your camera and plenty of sunscreen, water, and snacks for the trail. 4. BBQ ON THE BEACH Of course, no Pismo Beach vacation is complete without a beach BBQ. Pack your favorite hot dogs, fixings, and s’mores supplies and set up for an evening under the stars. Keep in mind that open fires aren’t allowed on Pismo Beach so bring a portable BBQ grill. If you want to build a real bonfire, Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) is the place to be. Here, you can bring firewood or collect driftwood from the beach to burn. Better yet, plan your stay at the SeaCrest and use one of our ocean view patio gas grills and make it a beach BBQ to remember. Can you feel the late summer breeze? Load up your beach chairs, make your restaurant reservations, and book your oceanfront hotel room for your next Pismo Beach getaway. The ocean is calling. |
6 places to take the best vacation photos in pismo beach
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August 14, 2018
From stunning beachfront views to picturesque parks, there’s no shortage of photo ops in Pismo Beach. Photographers and travelers alike flock from near and far to capture the beauty this iconic California coastline has to offer. Read more
From stunning beachfront views to picturesque parks, there’s no shortage of photo ops in Pismo Beach. Photographers and travelers alike flock from near and far to capture the beauty this iconic California coastline has to offer. Whether you’re planning a destination photo shoot or simply want to capture your vacation, here are six Instagram-worthy spots to add to your Pismo Beach shot list: 1. OCEANO DUNES NATURAL PRESERVE Just three miles south of Pismo Beach, you’ll find a shimmering oasis known as Oceano Dunes. Unique to California’s central coast, these dunes offer an expanse of dreamy white, wind-blown sand. Go for sunrise or sunset and get creative among the freshly dusted desert-like mounds. The views are truly magical. Local tip: Make sure to stick to the Natural Preserve with fellow hikers, as you’ll find yourself dodging off-road thrill-seekers at the State Vehicular Recreation Area next door. 2. PISMO BEACH PIER Follow Pomeroy to the beach and you’ll run right into the historical Pismo Beach Pier. While the pier itself is closed for rehabilitation until early 2019, the beach and boardwalk are open for business. Head to the sandy beach below the pier and take photos between the piles with the ocean as your photo backdrop. Local tip: Bring a beach chair or hammock and kick your feet up in the shade below the pier on a hot summer afternoon. 3. DINOSAUR CAVES PARK This 11-acre oceanfront park is popular among photographers for a reason. Situated on the bluffs above sea level, the park boasts panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean while the Pismo Reserve hills serve as a backdrop—offering painted vibrant shades of green and yellow during springtime months. Local tip: If you’re up for a real photographic adventure, you can take a Dinosaur Caves kayaking tour through a series of naturally formed arches, caves, and rock gardens below the park. 4. MARGO DODD PARK Marked by a charming white gazebo and situated on the ocean bluffs, Margo Dodd Park offers dramatic views of the rugged coastal terrain—making it ideal for capturing vibrant sunset photos. Local tip: Bring your zoom lens or binoculars. On a good day, you’re likely to spot whales and other marine wildlife not-too-far offshore from this spot. For close ups, walk to the end of Pier Street and explore the tidepools on the beach. 5. MONARCH BUTTERFLY GROVE If you visit between October and February, the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove is a must-photograph spot. Each year, thousands of Monarch Butterflies migrate to Pismo Beach, forming colorful clusters among the eucalyptus trees. The sight is truly spectacular. Local tip: From the butterfly grove, take a stroll along the wood-platformed Meadow Creek Trail for sweeping coastline views. Even if you miss butterfly season, the trail is worth a visit. 6. POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE A hidden gem located just north of Pismo Beach, the Point San Luis Lighthouse feels like traveling back in time. Chock-full of history and charm, the lighthouse has served as the beacon over San Luis Bay for over 128 years and is still active today. Access to the lighthouse is limited to hiking tours, docent-led tours, and by kayak or SUP but it’s worth the effort for the picture-perfect setting. Local tip: As you walk towards the lighthouse, look for the swing overlooking the ocean to your left for some truly Instagram-worthy snapshots. Not to mention, there are plenty of pristine photo ops just steps from your room at the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel. Snap photos from your private ocean view balcony, on the pool deck, rooftop or ground-level patios, or on the lawn–all overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Pack your camera and head to Pismo Beach to capture memories that’ll last a lifetime. |
5 MUST-PACK ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR PISMO BEACH VACATION
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July 30, 2018
You’re days away from a trip to Pismo Beach and it’s time to pack your suitcase. So what exactly should you bring when traveling to our classic beach town? There are so many activities for you to enjoy in and out of the water, so it’s practical to bring a variety of items to get the most of your visit. Here are five essentials: Read more
You’re days away from a trip to Pismo Beach and it’s time to pack your suitcase. So what exactly should you bring when traveling to our classic beach town? There are so many activities for you to enjoy in and out of the water, so it’s practical to bring a variety of items to get the most of your visit. Here are five essentials: 1. CLOTHES FOR WARM-ISH AND COOL-ISH WEATHER Us locals like to say, the key to enjoying weather on the central coast is one word: layers. A bit chilly, a bit warm. Those are the most likely temperature extremes. So if you’re planning for tank top and shorts, bring a long sleeve to throw over the top. If jeans and a t-shirt is more your style, grab a jacket to bring along. You get the idea. 2. DATE NIGHT OUTFIT Be prepared to wrap up a relaxing day on the beach with an enjoyable evening out. Casual or fancy, there’s a restaurant for any date night outfit. Fresh sushi from Kanpai Sushi, oysters from the Oyster Loft, slow cooked lamb bolognese from Giuseppe’s, fish tacos from Willow… where do we stop? For happy hour, head to one of Pismo’s many tasting rooms, including Tastes of the Valleys for some local wine. If beer is more your thing, be sure to check out ManRock Brewing to enjoy their extensive craft beer selection. 3. BEACH ESSENTIALS You’re visiting the beach, so of course you’ll need your swimsuit, flip flops, beach towel, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also bring a cover up so you can leave the beach and enjoy some of the local establishments along the wharf (such as the classic Splash Cafe). Pismo Beach is also home to fantastic kayaking. To protect yourself from the sun, consider bringing a broad brimmed sun hat and protective sun shirt to wear while you kayak. To get started with planning your kayaking adventure, check out Central Coast Kayaks for local rentals. 4. SUNDRESS OR BUTTON DOWN FOR WINE TASTING Vineyards and California’s Central Coast go hand-in-hand. Bring along a day-time going-out outfit and head out to taste the best of Pismo Beach in style with a stop (or two) at one of our many local vineyards. Some local favorites include Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards, Kynsi Winery, and Chamisal Vineyards – one of the oldest vineyards in Edna Valley. 5. HIKING SHOES Bring shoes you can hike in and get ready to enjoy the beach from a different perspective–up high. Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails right by Pismo Beach. Options include the dog-friendly, 4.9-mile Bob Jones Trail and the Ontario Ridge Trail for about four miles and 1,300 feet of climbing. So, what are you waiting for? Zip up your suitcase and head on over for a beach holiday you and your family will remember for years to come. Check out SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel in Pismo Beach for specials and packages, and to learn more about visiting our little coastal town. |
a foodie's guide to pismo beach
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July 19, 2018
The Central Coast is well known as a paradise for wine enthusiasts. And the Pismo Beach food scene is just as phenomenal. Food-lovers visiting our coastal town can expect exceptional eats including seafood and comfort dishes that feature local ingredients. Caution: This list may cause a sudden appetite for delicious, local food in Pismo Beach. Read at your own risk. Read more
The Central Coast is well known as a paradise for wine enthusiasts. And the Pismo Beach food scene is just as phenomenal. Food-lovers visiting our coastal town can expect exceptional eats including seafood and comfort dishes that feature local ingredients. Caution: This list may cause a sudden appetite for delicious, local food in Pismo Beach. Read at your own risk. WILLOW KITCHEN AND COCKTAILSLocated across the parking lot from the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel, Willow offers crowd favorites for brunch, lunch, dinner, and happy hour. Arrive thirsty: Willow offers a wide variety of delicious margaritas and other house cocktails. For live music, stop by Friday and Saturday nights between 9pm-11pm. Try something new: Step up your brunch game with Willow’s Hawaiian French Toast. The specialty dish comes with a coconut-battered brioche, seared pineapple, sweet cream cheese, and toasted coconut. SPLASH CAFEYou can’t visit Pismo Beach without thinking about clam chowder. Splash Cafe is one of the city’s oldest restaurants, known for its award-winning clam chowder and wide selection of other fresh seafood menu items. A true Pismo Beach landmark, be prepared to wait in line for this artisanal experience. CHIPWRECKEDThis low-key beachy stop specializes in gourmet sandwiches and kettle-cooked chips (“chipwrecks”). Try something new: Dessert potato chips. Ever had birthday cake chips? This sweet twist on the classic kettle-cooked chips offers toppings ranging from maple syrup, caramel sauce, and sweet cheesecake dip. CRACKED CRABThis Pismo Beach favorite features seafood fare with a traditional crab boil for those looking for a true seaside experience. Try something new: Seafood Buckets (single bucket or big bucket for two). The house specialty is served with your choice of shellfish, including local Dungeness crab, wild gulf shrimp, clams, and snow crab. WOOLY’SThis crowd-pleaser offers guests an amazing view of the beach and ocean while they dine. Food includes comfort options and local seafood dishes, such as clam chowder and fish tacos. Try something new: Carne Asada Fries. Fries meet nachos to make this Pismo favorite. Fries are topped with refried black beans, cheese, jalapenos, pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, cilantro, and lime. SHELL BEACH BREWHOUSEThe Shell Beach Brewhouse is a great stop for comfort food with a twist. If you’re feeling thirsty, enjoy one of the 30 rotating beer handles on tap. The flash-fried brussel sprouts with granny smith apples are a local favorite. Try something new: Elvis Lives Burger. This burger pays homage to the legendary rockstar with an 8 oz beef patty topped with a slab of bacon, caramelized bananas, creamy peanut butter, and aged cheddar. EMBERJust a ten minute drive from downtown Pismo, Ember offers an exquisite dining experience in a more formal setting. Their Italian-inspired rotating menu offers handcrafted food cooked over a wood fire. Try something new: Oven toasted marshmallow ice cream cake. Top off your meal with this dessert that leaves customers raving. Enjoy the cocoa sponge cakes with sea salt caramel, chocolate hazelnut crunch and vanilla bean ice cream. So, have you worked up an appetite yet? Get started with planning a food-filled Pismo Beach holiday that will leave your taste buds hungry for more. |
Plan A Family-Friendly 4th of July In Pismo Beach
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June 19, 2018
Independence Day is fast approaching and now is the time to get your celebration plans in place. Pismo Beach offers far more than just beachfront fireworks for you and your entire family to enjoy a memorable 4th of July celebration. Why not keep the party going with an extended stay. Here are six ways to enjoy your Pismo Beach 4th of July holiday. Read more
Independence Day is fast approaching and now is the time to get your celebration plans in place. Pismo Beach offers far more than just beachfront fireworks for you and your entire family to enjoy a memorable 4th of July celebration. Why not keep the party going with an extended stay. Here are six ways to enjoy your Pismo Beach 4th of July holiday. 1. Watch the Pismo Beach Fireworks with a ViewIt’s 4th of July, so fireworks are a must. But what better than fireworks over the beach? With our oceanfront location, the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel offers its guests fantastic views for watching the fireworks as they light up over the beach by the Pismo Pier. The fireworks will start around 9pm so why not enjoy a cocktail and a splash in the pool beforehand? 2. Attend Our 4th of July VIP Roof Top PartyIf you don’t want to worry about finding a spot to watch the fireworks, attend our VIP Rooftop Party! SeaCrest is offering premium seating to view the fireworks on our breathtaking rooftop terrace. You’ll enjoy entertainment by DJ Muir and coffee & desserts by Willow Kitchen & Cocktails including: cheesecakes, brownies, lemon bars, and cookies throughout the event. Guests must have a hotel reservation booked before reserving tickets. (Book your room now.) Event time 8-10pm, $40 per person. Tickets are limited. 3. Enjoy Downtown Pismo Beach CelebrationsOn Independence Day itself, celebrations at the Pismo Beach Pier parking lot and surrounding areas will run from 9am to 9pm. This free annual celebration includes a DJ and plenty of local vendors during the day before the fireworks show starts at 9pm. For those wanting a little more, there are two VIP experiences to choose from. Standard VIP guests can enjoy premiere firework seating as well as snacks, coffee, and hot cocoa throughout the evening. VIP dinner tickets are also available and include a BBQ dinner provided by F. McLintocks Saloon and Dining House. Head here for more information about the free and VIP celebration options. 4. Join the Doggie ParadeBringing your furry friend with you on your trip to Pismo Beach? If so, you may want to look into the 4th of July Doggie Parade held in Avila Beach. The parade starts at 11am and goes down the Avila Beach Promenade, starting at the corner of San Miguel and the Promenade. There will also be a costume contest with a number of categories including best costume, best dog/owner look alike costume, and most rowdy award. Since the SeaCrest is dog-friendly there’s no problem bringing your dog to enjoy the experience. To participate, your dog must be registered. Learn more about registration and the parade here. 5. Get Out on the WaterWhen at the beach, get your toes sandy and wet. Head down to the beach for a day of surfing, kayaking, or simply soaking in the sun. Pismo Beach Surf Shop offers both surf and kayak rentals with full and half day options. 6. Dine in Pismo BeachWhen you want a break from the water, head over to one of Pismo’s many seafood restaurants for some local fare. Among the most popular is Splash Cafe, a casual, beachy restaurant with a seafood specialty known for their clam chowder and sourdough bread bowl. Other local seafood restaurant options include Willow Kitchen & Cocktails(located at the SeaCrest), Ventana Grill and The Oyster Loft. Don’t let the fun stop at the fireworks. Enjoy a longer stay to get the most out of all our little beach town has to offer. Plan your 4th of July Pismo holiday today. |
5 ideas for the perfect central coast father's day
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June 4, 2018
Father’s Day is quickly approaching and what better way to celebrate dad than with a beach holiday in Pismo Beach? With so many local activities, get out there and show dad some love to thank him for all he does. Read more
Father’s Day is quickly approaching and what better way to celebrate dad than with a beach holiday in Pismo Beach? With so many local activities, get out there and show dad some love to thank him for all he does. Here are 5 ways to make this Father’s Day extra special. 1. Set sail. Experience Pismo Beach a little differently this Father’s Day with a sailing trip. There are many sailing options to choose from including afternoon and evening trips as well as private charters and sealife sailing. Want something a little faster? Head out on a power catamaran to see the marine wildlife of Pismo up close, including sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, and if you’re lucky, even late-season whales. Explore more sailing options at Central Coast Sailing. 2. Visit a local brewery. Wine tasting might be a Central Coast staple, but we certainly have our share of craft breweries to shake things up. Raise a glass to dad this Father’s Day at a local brewery or taproom. Local favorites include Figueroa Mountain Brewing in Arroyo Grande, Pismo Brewing Company in Pismo Beach, and ManRock Brewing Company in Grover Beach. 3. Enjoy a day of golf. Pismo Beach Golf Course is a local course with a phenomenal backdrop. Explore 9-hole course options here. Note that unlimited golf begins at 1pm! Another nearby golf option, Avila Beach Golf Resort offers a premier golfing experience. Situated right next to the ocean, the course offers stunning coastal views to make for a golfing experience dad will love. Learn more here. 4. Take dad for a hike. Pismo Beach and the surrounding areas offer so many incredible hiking options that there is a little something for everyone. With wild flowers in season, you’re in for an extra special treat no matter which hike you choose. For one of the most beautiful hikes in the area, head out to San Luis Obispo to summit Bishop Peak. Alternatively, check out Irish Hills Preserve, with possibilities to add onto it. A good addition is the Morro View trail, which adds on a couple miles and brings you to a beautiful vantage point to admire some of the morros that make San Luis Obispo so special. For a milder option, head up Shell Beach Bluffs and Ontario Ridge, a 3-mile loop off Shell Beach. 5. Surf’s up! Look no further than Pismo Beach Pier for a great place to surf. The south side of the pier tends to be better for surfing than the north side, with a good break at high tide. Pismo Beach offers a treasure trove of exciting activities to show dad your love this Father’s Day. Whether it’s craft beer or heading up to the top of a morro for the views, make his special day one to remember with a trip to Pismo Beach. Plan your stay today. |
4 Classic Experiences for Your Best 'Classic at Pismo Beach' Holiday
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MAY 23, 2018
It’s officially that time of year again: the 33rd annual Classic at Pismo Beach car show is right around the corner, running from June 1st through June 3rd. For classic car aficionados, this is a must-attend event to see the pristinely cared-for classic cars driven in from all over. With cars from the 1930’s onwards featured at the show, each year is never the same and brings a new thrill as to what is in store. While in town, why not enjoy more of Pismo’s classics? Read more
It’s officially that time of year again: the 33rd annual Classic at Pismo Beach car show is right around the corner, running from June 1st through June 3rd. For classic car aficionados, this is a must-attend event to see the pristinely cared-for classic cars driven in from all over. With cars from the 1930’s onwards featured at the show, each year is never the same and brings a new thrill as to what is in store. While in town, why not enjoy more of Pismo’s classics? Here are four other ways to enjoy some of Pismo Beach’s best while going in and out of the event: 1. Grab a Pismo Beach cinnamon bun at Old West Cinnamon Rolls. Old West Cinnamon Rolls are not your everyday treat. Baked in-house with a homemade recipe passed down in the family for generations, this is one of Pismo Beach’s most-loved spots. Nestled in downtown Pismo Beach, Old West Cinnamon Rolls is local favorite and tends to get quite busy later in the afternoon. For a better chance to avoid the line, it’s recommended you drop in during the morning. 2. Enjoy lunch by the pier. When by the bay, what’s better than fresh seafood? Enjoy one of Pismo Beach’s best lunch spots at Splash Cafe, a low-key, beachy restaurant with a seafood specialty. A favorite dish is the clam chowder, served in a warm sourdough bread bowl. 3. Get your toes sandy at the beach. Escape the craziness of the Classic by taking a beach stroll. Head down the stairs by the pier, or from the SeaCrest, and walk along the beach to enjoy the beautiful Pismo Beach. Just a few miles away is Avila Beach, another great option for appreciating the area’s stunning natural landscape. If you want to get even more out of your time at the beach, rent a kayak from one of the many local vendors. 4. Experience a different type of car. Does looking at all the classic cars get you excited for a driving adventure? Luckily, opportunities abound in Pismo Beach. Rent your choice of off-road vehicle and head out to the Pismo Dunes or Oceano State Recreation Area for some fun in the sand. Options include Pacific Adventure Tours, the largest Humvee tour company in the nation, and Sun Buggy & ATV rentals. The Classic at Pismo Beach is one of the Pismo Beach’s most anticipated events of the year and is bound to excite. Be sure to complement this classic event with these classic experiences for an unforgettable getaway that is only possible at Pismo. Start planning your Pismo Beach trip today. |