While the sand and surf are the major attraction, there are so many more fun activities and things to do in Pismo Beach, CA. Within walking distance of the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel® are the famous Pismo Pier and the downtown area with its many restaurants and shops.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy an endless array of adventure activities - including hiking and horse back riding at the Pismo Preserve, golf, fishing, Hummer Tours, and ATV riding, and of course all sorts of water sports – during your trip to Pismo Beach.

Nature enthusiasts will love the Monarch Butterfly Grove, the Sand Dunes of Guadalupe - one of the most biodiverse coastal dune-lagoon ecosystems on the planet, and exploring the many tide pools, coves, and caves found along the beach.

Ten miles away in Edna Valley and San Luis Obispo are some of the best wineries in the region, the historic Mission San Miguel is 48 miles, and Hearst Castle in San Simeon is 60 miles north of the hotel.

• Attractions
• Recreation
• Park

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​Pirates Cove Lookout

​This iconic spot is less than a mile away from Avila beach. Only a short walk to the cliffs is the perfect place to watch the sunset, have a picnic, or just enjoy a great view of the ocean!

Fremont Theater

The Fremont Theater is a historic movie theater in San Luis Obispo. It is among the last Streamline Moderne theaters built by architect S. Charles Lee. The theater is now one of the main locations for the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival.

Piedras Blancas Light Station

Piedras Blancas Light Station is located at Point Piedras Blancas, about 5.5 miles west by northwest of San Simeon and 40 miles north of San Luis Obispo. It is open for tours year round. 

Madonna Mountain

Breathtaking views await those hiking up Madonna Mountain. Madonna Mountain is quite literally the center of the City of San Luis Obispo. The mountain is an extinct volcano and next to Morro Rock is the most well known of the Seven Sister Volcanoes.

Madonna Inn

As an international landmark destination, the Madonna Inn redefines unique with 110 whimsical guestrooms, enchanting decor, and room amenities. This resort has been on California's Central Coast for over 50 years.

Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History

The Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History opened in 1962 and sits on a hill overlooking the Morro Bay Estuary. The Museum features state-of-the-art interactive exhibits especially created for the Morro Bay site. In addition to panoramic views of the coastline, the view from the museum includes world-famous Morro Rock.

Art Bar San Luis Obispo

In a relaxed and social setting, an artist will guide you through replicating the nights featured painting step by step. Whether you are an aspiring artist or just looking to explore your creative side, you create a painting that is uniquely yours. We suggest arriving 15 minutes early to gather all materials and enjoy your first cocktail. Wine and charcuterie service is offered throughout each 2 hour workshop. Learn More.

William Randolph Hearst Castle

The beach is located near the town of San Simeon along Highway One and gives visitors the opportunity to hike, swim, fish, picnic, and sunbath. This protected cove also offers visitors pier fishing, deep-sea fishing from chartered boats and kayaking. This day use area offers 24 picnic sites, 150 parking spaces, restrooms, water faucets, barbecue grill stands and easy beach access. There is a kayak and boogie board concession in operation with equipment for rent. Learn More. ​

Point San Luis Lighthouse

The Point San Luis Lighthouse is located on the north side of Port San Luis Harbor near Avila Beach. The 30 acre nature preserve can be reached by a docent led hike of the Pecho Coast Trail, a classic trolley ride, or by kayak. Tours happen every Wed & Sat rain or shine. Learn More.

Sunset Drive-In

The Sunset Drive-In has been operating year-round since 1950 and is the perfect place for family fun. Grab your pillow, blankie, comfy camping chair and a buddy and head out for a night of good.  Admisison gives you two movies for the price of one and concession stand onsite. Adults are $7, kids 5 to 11 are $3 and kids 4 and under are free. Cash only. Learn More. 
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San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum

The San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum 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 with  21 indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits that challenge children ages 1-10 to learn while having fun. There is also educational programs and activities scheduled throughout each week. Learn More.

Charles Paddock Zoo

The Charles Paddock Zoo, located in Atascadero, CA is the Central Coast's only zoo and are truly dedicated to the conservation of local and exotic species. It's the  perfect place to spend the day. The Zoo is the home of rare Malayan tiger, spider monkeys, meerkats, a beautiful aviary and many more unique species. Learn More.

The Palm Theatre

The Palm Theatre is an independently owned and operated movie theatre which features a variety of independent, foreign, arthouse, and mainstream cinema. The Palm Theatre is the first movie theatre in the United States to be run by solar energy. The Palm Theatre pays tribute to the history of the area it is located, formerly known as a small Chinatown, with the design of the cinema’s logo which include Asian-inspired lettering and palm branches. Learn More.

Sycamore Mineral Hot Springs

The Sycamore Mineral Hot Springs features 23 open-air naturally heated mineral spring hot tubs that lines a peaceful tree-canopied hillside. Each hot tub is surrounded by a wood fence to ensure privacy from other guests while still providing majestic views and a serene environment. The hot tubs are open to the public and reserved individually by the hour. Select hot tubs can accommodate from two to eight people. Learn More. 

Avila Valley Barn

Avila Valley Barn is a  favorite spot to stop off and buy the freshest fruit and vegetables grown locally. Pick up a pie or bakery treat, stop off for lunch from the deli or get an ice cream on the way to Avila Beach. There are farm animals and hayrides in addition to seasonal u-pick apples and pumpkins. Learn More.

Bubblegum Alley

One of the most popular landmark attractions in San Luis Obispo is Bubblegum Alley. Beginning as early as the 1960s in what is thought to have been an unofficial graduating or school rivalry prank that has really stuck. Join in on the fun and grab a gumball at local Powell’s Sweet Shoppe and head over to Bubblegum Alley. Appreciate the communal art form for what it is and stick your unique stamp on SLO. Learn More.

San Luis Obispo Botanical Gardens

The San Luis Obispo Botanical Gardens is a serene and relaxing spot for the whole family. With opportunities for education, recreation, conservation and research, the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden offers docent-led nature tours, activities for kids, a garden shop, educational gardening classes, a concert series and many other events for San Luis Obispo visitors to enjoy for free. Learn More.

Mission San Luis Obispo Tolosa

Mission San Luis Obispo Tolosa is a must see for history enthusiasts, vacationers and tourists of all kinds. Founded in 1772 the still active church resides in the center of San Luis Obispo. Free docent lead tours are offered or you can take a self-guided tour. Mass is held daily and there is a variety of community events that are held in the Mission Plaza. Learn More. 

Morro Rock

Morro Rock is the last of the Nine Sisters (extinct volcano peaks)  that reside in San Luis Obispo County. The 567' tall landmark sits at the mouth of the Morro Bay Harbor and is home to wildlife in the area. You can drive to the base of the rock and visit the neighboring beaches. Climbing is prohibited. Learn More. 

Morro Bay

Morro Bay is a waterfront city made up of a variety  of beaches including: Bayshore Bluffs Park, Coleman Park, Morro Bay State Park, Morro Rock City Beach, Morro Rock Jetty Beach, Morro Strand State Beach, North Point Beach,  Tidelands Park and Torro Creek Beach. Visitors can enjoy year round activities including golf, sailing, kayaking, hiking, fishing, surfing, biking, picnicking, tide-pooling, bird watching, shopping, miles of beaches and seafood. Learn More. 

Elephant Seal Viewing

Come view northern elephant seals during their time onshore at Piedras Blancas. The viewing areas are located 90 miles south of Monterey, 5 miles north of Hearst Castle State Historical Monument in San Simeon, 1.5 miles south of Point Piedras Blancas. The viewing areas are open every day of the year, are wheelchair accessible, and free. No reservations required. Learn More.

Central Coast Aquarium

The Central Coast Aquarium is a friendly public visitor center that is just steps away from the beach and boardwalk. Students and visitors get a fun, hands-on experience here that allows them to explore the world of the ocean, beneath the surface. The family-friendly aquarium has a mission of educating and inspiring visitors of all ages about local sea life and marine science by giving them an exciting hands-on experience. Learn More.

Great American Melodrama

Live Professionals, year round theater with song, dance and comedy reviews. Family entertainment with food, beer and wine available. Learn More.
 
Schedule:
 Jan.23- Mar.8: Pump Boys and Dinettes
Mar.12-Apr.26: Sherlock Holmes and the Sign of the Four
Apr.30-Jun14.: The Emperor's New Clothes
Jun.18-Sep.20: Butch Cassidy and the Sunburnt Kid
Jul.16-Sep.19: The Perils of Pismo Peg and other Tall Tales
Sep.24-Nov.15: Frankensteins Bride
​Nov.19-Dec.31: The Holiday Extravaganza

Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle® is a must-see for any California visitor. It was originally built as a private estate for publisher William Randolph Hearst. Today it is open to the public daily for guided tours (except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Days) and is owned and operated by the California State Parks Department. Learn More.

Beaches

What does a great day on the beach look like? Surfing, swimming, sandcastles, and a relaxing stroll along the sandy shoreline, of course. Step off the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel’s lawn onto the pristine stretch of Pacific Ocean beach right in our backyard, take a shoreline stroll down to the vibrant Pismo Pier or head over to Avila Beach to enjoy the beauty of the cove and the gentle, rolling surf. Learn More.

Wine Tasting

San Luis Obispo County boasts over 300 wineries, stretching from Paso Robles to Arroyo Grande. The two regions are as distinct in the wines made as they are in their weather patterns. But one thing remains the same - quality wines made in a hands-on artisan fashion with a total emphasis on delivering the California lifestyle.

Golf

Take your buddies or meeting partners out to the most spectacular golf courses in the United States! Explore the lush ground of our favorite local golf resorts in the Pismo Beach area!

Find top local golf courses.

Kayaking

There is no better way to enjoy the wonderful furry, feathered, and flippered residents of the sea. With numerous kayaking opportunities along the fine bays, beaches, estuaries, and lakes, you can meet otters, dolphins, seals, sea lions, and a variety of birds. Venture out yourself, or hire an expert guide. Ask one of our friendly staff members at The SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel and we can make all the arrangements for you.

Contact a local outfitter.

Whale Watching

Throughout the year these magnificent leviathans grace our coastline. During the summer months of July and August we find Humpbacks near our shores feeding on the abundant baitfish that school here. In the winter, starting mid November and lasting till the end of January the California grey whales migrate past or waters heading south to breed and give birth in the warm lagoons of Mexico. In spring (March to May) we have another opportunity to observe them as they return north on one of the longest migrations of any animal on earth to their primary feeding grounds in the arctic sea. A voyage of over 10,000 miles per year!

Learn More.

Bob Jones Trail

Enjoy this City to the Sea bike trail that follows the Pacific Coast Railroad right-of-way along the San Luis Obispo Creek to Avila Beach. The trail starts at the parking lot right off the 101 freeway and ends at the beach/promenade in downtown Avila Beach. This trail is great for walking, skating, biking, etc. The trail will take you through lush landscapes and gardens and follows a meandering stream. Learn More.

Laguna Lake Municipal Golf Course

The City of San Luis Obispo's ten-hole executive-length golf course offers a unique wellness and entertainment opportunity for the whole family. It offers fun and challenge for both the beginning and accomplished golfer. Open daily from 7 a.m. to dusk. Rentals cease 2 hours prior to closing. 

Monarch Dunes Golf Course

Monarch Dunes is located along the Central California Coast, just south of San Luis Obispo in Nipomo, CA. Monarch Dunes features two award-winning golf courses. The first 18-hole championship "Old Course" as well as the acclaimed 12-hole, Par-3 Challenge Course. Learn More.

Avila Beach Golf Resort

Avila Beach Golf Course offers 9 and 18 holes with carts for an additional fee. Prices vary by hours and weekends/holidays. You can book a tee time through their website or call to make a reservation. Learn More.

Central Coast Kayaks

Central Coast Kayaks offers tours of the Central Coast, classes, guided kayaking fishing trips, kayak rentals, paddle board and kayak repairs. They have a variety of tours ranging from caving, seeing the natural wildlife and tours for paddlers looking for a longer adventure. Learn More.

Sub Sea Tours and Kayaks

Sub Sea Tours and Kayaks features kayak rentals, party canoes, private charters, whale watching and sub sea tours. With a variety of activities Sub Sea Tours and Kayaks offers the whole family an opportunity to observe the unmatched beauty of Morro Bay in a unique way. Check website for schedules and prices.

Kayak Horizons

Perfect for first timers to seasonal paddlers. Explore the 15 miles of protected waters in the Morro Bay Estuary/Bird Sanctuary with a variety of wildlife. Kayak Rentals features fleet features Sit-In Kayaks by Necky, Perception and Old Town and Nalu 12.5 Stand Up Boards by Ocean.
 
Open 7 days a week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and no reservations. Learn More.

Avila Beach Paddle Sports

Features kayaking, paddleboard rentals, lessons, and adventure tours.
 
Rentals Open Mon-Fri 9am to 5pm, Saturday & Sunday 8am to 5pm. No Reservations Needed! 

(Last Rental of the day is by 3:30 pm)
 
Learn More.

Avila Beach Paddle Sports

Bishop Peak is the most sought after summit in San Luis Obispo and has an excellent view of the city. From the trailhead at the end of Highland Drive to the top of the mountain is 3.5 miles round trip with 950 feet of elevation gain. Learn More.

Ziplining

The historic Santa Margarita Ranch in Paso Robles Wine Country is an iconic California landmark and soaring high above this beautiful land from five different ziplines is what “adventure” is all about. Margarita Adventures offers zipline canopy tours to  promoting a deep appreciation for the natural surroundings and the unique traditions of Santa Margarita. The ziplines span more than 4,500 combined feet for the ultimate experience in thrill, exploration and education. Learn More.

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo University

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo is a nationally ranked, public university located in San Luis Obispo just minutes from our Pismo Beach California hotel. With more than 18,000+ students, an excellent academic reputation, a unique learning environment, and a 6,000-acre main campus nestled in the foothills of San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly is a popular choice for students from around the world.

Visit the Cal Poly website.

​Reservoir Canyon Hike

​This is the perfect hike for those looking for a little more activity during their day. The trail is a 5-mile loop that starts off by passing by a small waterfall. It also has a tree swing halfway though for a nice and relaxing break during your hike!

Laguna Lake Park

Laguna Lake Park is the perfect Lakefront spot for boating & fishing with playground, sand volleyball, BBQs & migratory birds.

Margo Dodd Park

This ocean-bluff park has a breathtaking ocean view, covered gazebo, a grassy recreation area, bicycle parking and on-street parking. This park has marine and bird life and a rugged coastal terrain. There is beach access to a large tide pool area at the end of Pier Street, where snorkeling and tide pools invite exploration. Learn More.

Perfumo Canyon

Perfumo Canyon Road begins through the residential neighborhoods around Laguna Lakes. The winding road leads up to the open ridge line with gorgeous views of the surrounding hills. Perfumo Canyon road is the perfect place to watch the sunset, go on a scenic drive, have a picnic and take in the amazing view of the rolling hills. From here you can see many of the Nine Sisters and Morro Bay.  Learn More.
 
Directions:

• Heading North on the 101 Exit at Madonna Rd. 
• Head southwest on Madonna Rd toward French St
  1.2 mi
• Use the right 2 lanes to turn right onto Los Osos Valley Rd
  0.6 mi
• Turn left onto Perfumo Canyon Rd Across from Laguna Middle School 
• Follow the Road until desired. 

Fisherman’s Beach

Fisherman's Beach is the smallest of beaches in Avila and Port San Luis Harbor and is know as the "Dog Beach" by the locals. The Port San Luis Harbor District currently allows well behaved dogs to be off the leash anytime on this beach and Olde Port Beach. Please make sure to keep your dog under control and pick up after your dog so we don't lose this privilege. Learn More.

Pismo Beach

This classic beach town offers long white beaches for taking a pleasant stroll or for just enjoying the spectacular views of the Pismo Beach sunset. Enjoy Pismo Beach's great weather and Pismo Beach offers a variety  of outdoor activities destined to satisfy any sports enthusiast. Including: Central Coast Golfing, riding the dunes in a four-wheel ATV, horseback riding, surfing, body boarding, fishing from our 1200-foot pier or take a leisurely walk on our award-winning boardwalk adjacent to the Pismo Beach pier.

Cambria

Cambria has a wide selection of natural wonders for everyone to enjoy. Its beaches offer bird watching, elephant seal viewing, kayaking, tide-pooling, hiking trails or strolling on the boardwalk.  Cambria’s beaches include: Shamel Community Park, Lampton Cliffs State Park, Pico Creek Beach Access, Moonstone Beach, Fiscalini Ranch Preserv, Leffingwell Landing and Harvey Accessway Beach.  Learn More.

Cayucos State Beach

Cayucos State Beach is known for its fishing pier, historical buildings and its beautiful beach. The beach offers water sports such as surfing, swimming, picnic areas, a playground, boating and tide-pooling. Lifeguards are on duty during summer peak months. Learn More.

Santa Margarita Lake

Santa Margarita Lake features camping, fishing, boating, picnic areas, hiking and a  swimming pool. With thousands of acres of unspoiled open space, the park is home to countless species of plants and wildlife making it the perfect location for nature study, boating, and fishing. Learn More.

Lopez Lake

Located just ten miles east of Arroyo Grande, California, Lopez Lake Recreation Area is one of the top choices for camping and leisure trips. Lopez lake features Mustang Water Park, 22 miles of shoreline, lake temperatures around 70°F, camping, fishing, boating, picnicking, hiking and equestrian trails, mountain biking, zip-lining, birdwatching and so much more. Learn More.

Grover Beach

Grover Beach provides outstanding recreation opportunities for off -highway enthusiast, dune recreation, fishing, kite surfing, golfing, horseback riding, and off-road vehicle riding.  It features a boardwalk, drive on beach access and bonfire friendly area. Perfect for a family walk on the beach, bonfires with friends and it's right next to the Monarch Butterfly Grove.

Shell Beach

Shell Beach is the neighboring town to Pismo Beach. There are multiple beaches tucked below the cliffs of Shell Beach including: South Palisades Park, Silver Shoals Park, Spy Glass Park, Memory Park, Eldwayen Ocean Park, Dinosaur Caves Park and Elmer Ross Beach. These beaches are perfect for tidepooling, picnicking or just enjoying the view. Learn More.

Avila Beach

Avila Beach is perfect for tourist strolling, recreational fishing, delightful oceanfront restaurants, wonderful local wines, and a variety of shopping for everyone. Play in the tide pools, visit the park, relax at the beach or come out for the Friday Farmers Market.

Dinosaur Cave Park

The 11-acre ocean front bluff top park is popular with people of all ages and perfect for families. Park amenities include a wedding overlook, grassy reception area and an amphitheater for entertainment events are available to rent on an hourly basis. The unique play ground features a tire swing, two concrete dolphins; Oreo the Orca Whale; the USS IMAGINATION, a fine galleon; three beautiful dinosaur eggs; one gentle dinosaur and three playful seals. Learn More.

Montaña de Oro State Park

The 11-acre ocean front bluff top park is popular with people of all ages and perfect for families. Park amenities include a wedding overlook, grassy reception area and an amphitheater for entertainment events are available to rent on an hourly basis. The unique play ground features a tire swing, two concrete dolphins; Oreo the Orca Whale; the USS IMAGINATION, a fine galleon; three beautiful dinosaur eggs; one gentle dinosaur and three playful seals. Learn More.

Monarch Butterfly Garden

Every year from late October through February thousands of orange and black Monarch butterflies migrate south to this stunning grove in Pismo Beach, California. If you are staying along the San Luis Obispo coast during these months you should stop at the North Beach Grove at Pismo State Beach to see colorful butterflies numbering in the tens of thousands that hang upside down in the Monterey Pines and Eucalyptus Trees.​

Oceano Dunes

About 10 minutes South of the SeaCrest, you'll find the beloved Oceano Dunes! Whether you have "toys" or not, the Oceano Dunes is the only California State Park where you can drive right onto the beach! Make this adventure extra special and contact local rental companies such as Pacific Adventure Tours or Xtreme Hummer Adventures and rent ATVs or take a Hummer tour through the dunes.