Pismo Beach’s wide, sandy shores are the perfect place for anyone looking to relax or enjoy some outdoor activities, and the beach at The Cliffs Hotel & Spa is just a rustic staircase away. Lounge in the sun, watch the sun set over the Pacific, or enjoy beach games with friends.  For the more adventurous, Pismo Beach offers opportunities for surfing, bodyboarding, and horseback riding along the beach. The nearby Oceano Dunes State Vehicle Recreation Area allows for off-roading adventures with ATVs, offering an exhilarating experience for adrenaline junkies.

Downtown Pismo Beach, adjacent to the pier, is the best place to soak in surfer vibes and support art galleries, quaint shops, and local restaurants, all with a scenic ocean view. Before strolling out on the pier, make sure to snap a photo in front of the seven-foot-tall illuminated letters that spell out Pismo Beach. 

For those who enjoy getting out on the water, kayaking or paddleboarding in Pismo Beach is an excellent way to explore the coastline. Rentals are available at the beach, and the calm waters are perfect for beginners. Paddle out to see the breathtaking cliffs, spot sea otters, and get a close-up view of local marine life. Consider taking a guided tour, where local experts can help you navigate the area and point out wildlife along the way.

Visiting the outlet mall in Pismo Beach is a great way to enjoy a shopping spree just minutes away from The Cliffs. The Pismo Beach Premium Outlets offer a variety of well-known brands at discounted prices, from high-end fashion to sportswear, footwear, and accessories. The open-air layout of the mall makes it a pleasant place to shop, with sunny weather and ocean breezes adding to the experience. Whether you’re hunting for a great deal or simply strolling through the charming plaza, it’s easy to take in the relaxed vibe of this coastal shopping destination.

Pismo Beach is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making it a great destination for hiking. The Pismo Preserve, with more than 900 acres of trails, offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer, foxes, and bobcats. The trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, so there’s something for every level of adventurer.

For a more dramatic view, hike the Bluff Trail, which offers sweeping vistas of the coastline, cliffs, and rugged terrain. For a short, scenic hike, Shell Beach is just a short drive away and offers an easy trek along the shoreline.

For those in search of relaxation, two area hot springs offer visitors a tranquil escape into nature while providing rejuvenating thermal waters renowned for their therapeutic properties.

Avila Hot Springs is a serene oasis offering a variety of hot mineral pools set against the backdrop of lush landscapes and rolling hills. The hot springs have been a beloved retreat for generations, providing a peaceful environment for relaxation and wellness. Visitors can enjoy the warm, soothing waters while taking in stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Sycamore Hot Springs provides visitors with private and shared hot spring pools, offering an intimate and tranquil setting. The mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing properties, and guests can enjoy them amid natural beauty, often with glimpses of wildlife and lush plant life. In addition to soaking in the healing waters, Sycamore Hot Springs features relaxing spa treatments, making it an ideal location for those looking for a full wellness experience.

For a truly romantic and memorable experience, consider booking a sunset cruise. Various local companies offer sunset tours along the coastline, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and coastline. The sight of the sun dipping below the Pacific Ocean is nothing short of spectacular, making this a perfect activity for couples or groups of friends.

Just a short drive from Pismo Beach, Hearst Castle in San Simeon is one of California’s most iconic landmarks. This historic mansion was once the home of media mogul William Randolph Hearst, and today, it offers guided tours through its opulent rooms, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking architecture. It’s an easy day trip from Pismo Beach and provides a fascinating glimpse into the luxury and extravagance of the early 20th century.

Just north of Hearst Castle, the Elephant Seal Rookery offers the chance to view thousands of elephant seals lounging on the beach. The large seals are fascinating to observe in their natural habitat.

The historic town of San Luis Obispo, a 15-minute drive from Pismo Beach, offers a scenic and charming outing. Wander through the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, a historic Spanish mission that dates back to 1772, or stroll through Bubblegum Alley, a quirky local landmark where you’ll find walls covered in...bubblegum!

A fun detour here is the Bishop Peak Trail, which offers a moderate hike with fantastic views over the valley and surrounding mountains.