Looking for things to do with the kids for your next family trip to Pismo Beach? Look no further! We have curated the top 10 kids’ activities on the Central Coast for you to enjoy while you are here:
Central Coast Aquarium, Avila Beach – Take a dive into an ocean of discovery as you explore some of the Central Coast’s most iconic marine habitats, offering houses to over 250 marine creatures. Learn about over 75 local species from a passionate volunteer team and enjoy an oceanfront view of Avila Beach at this quaint and colorful aquarium. They offer an adult friendly event called “Science After Dark” hosted by Dr. Christopher G. Lowe and held on the last Tuesday of every month from 5:30-8:00pm. The overall mission of the Central Coast Aquarium is to cultivate a community dedicated to ocean stewardship through education, engagement, and action and they welcome all ages to come and explore.
Avila Valley Barn, San Luis Obispo – Avila Valley Barn is a favorite place to stop off and buy the freshest fruit and vegetables grown locally, pick up a pie or bakery treat, hand feed the farm animals, grab a delicious lunch from their Smoke House and Chicken Shack, or get an ice cream on the way to Avila Beach. Avila Valley Barn is truly a place built with the whole family in mind. There are hayrides, pony rides, a pumpkin patch, hay maze, Christmas trees, U-pick fruit and flowers, casual dining, roasted corn and handmade ice cream. They offer family friendly experiences year-round at this popular farm stand and kids love to visit time and time again.
​Dinosaur Caves Park, Pismo Beach - This 11-acre, ocean-front, bluff-top park is popular with walkers, photographers, dog lovers, joggers, and fishing enthusiasts. Park amenities include a wedding location overlooking the ocean, as well as a grassy reception area, and an amphitheater for entertainment events. Additionally, a large unique play area is found in the park and includes a gentle dinosaur, two concrete dolphins, three beautiful dinosaur eggs, three playful seals, a tire swing, tot swing, and The USS IMAGINATION. Kiddos can spend hours playing at this impressive playground, while parents can watch on and enjoy the ocean views.
Pismo Bowl - Established in 1939, this 8-lane bowling alley is located right in downtown Pismo Beach, walking distance from the hotel. Its retro feel is carried throughout the exterior and interior spaces, especially with its above ground ball returns and soda fountain style diner. Groups can rent out all 8 lanes and have dinner and pizza catered, along with a premium selection of beers. The arcade is stocked with classic games and they are open 7 days a week, making the perfect indoor activity for overcast days.
Mustang Water Park, Arroyo Grande - Mustang Waterpark is located in the Lopez Lake Recreation Area about 10 miles east of the Village of Arroyo Grande and just a short drive from Pismo Beach. They have two 600-foot curving waterslides joined by a 38-foot half-pipe Stampede for thrill-seekers. For younger children, the Kiddie Pools offer three mini-slides and two waterfall mushrooms, along with sun decks & luxury cabanas. The park is nestled in the oak studded hills overlooking beautiful Lopez Lake and they offer affordable family fun for all ages.
San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum – The San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum is in downtown SLO and was created to provide a fun place for children and families to explore, discover and learn through hands-on exhibits and programs. Three floors and an outside playscape are jam packed with exhibits for children aged from 2-10. Unique, educational programs and activities are scheduled throughout each week including robot building, watercolor spray art, mini rainforest terrariums and other creative kids’ projects.
Sunset Drive-In, San Luis Obispo - One of the last remaining drive-in theaters in California, Sunset Drive-In in San Luis Obispo offers a classic movie-night experience at a family-friendly price. Tickets are cash only, so plan an ATM stop before you arrive! The box office typically opens around 7:00 p.m., with movies starting shortly after—arrive early to snag a great spot. Most nights feature double features, so you get more movie magic for your night. Feeling snacky? The on-site snack bar has all the classics—popcorn, candy, soda, and more. Check their website or Facebook page for current show times.
The Pad Climbing, San Luis Obispo – This is the fourth iteration of what started in a tiny storage unit as the country’s first non-profit bouldering gym, and is now a network of impressive climbing gyms across the U.S. A fusion of cozy and expansive, the San Luis Obispo gym is designed for a mix of abilities and motivations with 9,000 square feet of rope climbing, 4,000 square feet of bouldering and 7 auto belay stations. They offer summer youth climbing camps for ages 6-14; Camp at The Pad is a place for kids to move their bodies, build confidence, and have fun doing something truly different. Whether they’re brand new to climbing or already obsessed, their certified coaches and counselors create a safe, supportive space for them to learn and thrive.
Central Coast Zoo, Atascadero - The Central Coast Zoo is home to about a hundred species of animals found around the world, where they live in the beautiful wooded Lake Park in Atascadero, California. They are the only zoo on the Central Coast accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the gold standard for zoos ensuring the highest level of animal welfare. As part of AZA, their animals are part of globally managed conservation programs to preserve species and their wild habitats. They hope you will come and relax, learn, and enjoy the animals in a safe and respectful environment, and have fun in the beautiful park with play equipment, lawns, walking pathways and a scenic lake with paddleboats. Check their events calendar for Ice Cream Zoofari, Party For The Planet and other family friendly and fun holiday events.
Ravine Waterpark, Paso Robles – The Ravine Waterpark has brought families together for sunshine, splashdowns, and summer traditions for over 20 years. Experience heart-pounding thrills on Sidewinder, their exciting newest water slide, or jump on the Thunder Run, the ultimate adrenaline thrill with a towering 5-story slide with breathtaking drops and a thrilling splash into a 75-foot lagoon. Float in the Kickback Kreek Lazy River and enjoy splashing in the wave pool. The park offers reserved cabanas perfect for families with food and beverages served right to guests lounging poolside. The waterpark is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day each season.
We hope this gives you some child like inspiration for your next visit to Pismo Beach, rain or shine!