24 Hours of Things to Do in Pismo Beach

Indulge in traditional fare or breakfast with Mexican flair

Start off your day of things to do in Pismo Beach with a delicious and energizing meal. These local favorites have options for days, so you’re sure to find something to fit any pallet. And with respective legacies that speak to the quality and flavor of food they serve – both establishments have been around for nearly 20 years; you won’t want to miss these Pismo Beach staples.

An unassuming joint in downtown Pismo Beach, Penny’s All American Cafe offers breakfast classics such as steak and eggs, eggs benedict, pancake stacks and more. Popular items include their infamous strawberry waffles (available when in season) and baked apple, sausage and cheddar cheese omelette. Whatever you order be sure to try out their homemade jams to take any menu item to the next level.

Zorro’s Cafe & Cantina is located in Shell Beach (aka northern Pismo Beach). Here tables line the street for relaxed, no-frill dining (indoor dining is also available). Their extensive menu includes seven breakfast burritos to choose from, as well as, Mexican breakfast favorites such as huevos rancheros, tamales and chile relleno & eggs. Be sure to add a little Zorro’s hot sauce to your plate for even more depth of flavor.

Over land or sea take your pick of activities that will keep you moving!

Fueled up and ready to go, hit the trails at Pismo Preserve. Meander through the oak trees to stunning panoramic views of the coastline and beyond. This is the perfect spot to get a bird’s-eye view of Pismo Beach and all it has to offer for the rest of your stay. With over 11 miles of trails to choose from, you can spend all morning at the Preserve – don’t forget to pack water and layers (for those cool coastal breezes).

If water sports are more your style, riding a surfboard is the perfect way to experience Pismo Beach. The beach breaks here are famous for consistent and fun waves, perfect for beginners and first-time surfers. If you’re a more experienced rider head to Pismo Beach Pier. Need more recommendations or gear? Pismo Beach is home to some great surf shops that will get you kitted up!

For those looking for a more relaxed morning activity, head to the Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove. The walking path leads through the butterfly grove to rolling sand dunes and to the ocean beyond. Located south of downtown Pismo Beach and along Highway 1, the grove is easy to find and this area of the beach tends to be quieter than near downtown.

Enjoy popular Pismo Beach bites

Did you know that Pismo Beach was once known as the clam capital of the world? Today that tradition is continued with the area’s most popular food item: Clam Chowder! Head to Splash Café, a popular lunch destination since 1989 where they serve over 40,000 gallons of their award-winning clam chowder a year. Order you cup or sourdough bread bowl fully loaded, topped with seafood, clams, bacon, green onions and cheese.

In Pismo Beach, no lunch is complete without something sweet. Old West Cinnamon Rolls is a local staple originating in Shell Beach over 40 years ago. Choose from the original, cream cheese frosted, nut topped or maple bacon – all delicious and all freshly baked. Walk a block from the storefront and enjoy your cinnamon roll right on the beach!

Pack your afternoon with a smorgasbord of things to do in Pismo Beach

We’d be remised not to mention the beach itself in this itinerary of things to do in Pismo Beach. Lay out a towel in the sands for a relaxing afternoon listening to the sounds of the ocean, or head to the far north end of the beach to explore the Pismo Beach caves (best discovered at low tide).

Fishing is also a popular past time in Pismo Beach, and Sheldon’s Bait Shack on Pismo Pier will get you set up with all the tackle you need. Cast your line off the pier, no license required, and enjoy an afternoon above the waves. Need a break from the beach? Head to the Sans Liege tasting room for some pours of locally made Rhône varietal wines.

Discover dinner with a view, Pismo Beach style

Ventana Grill is perched on the cliffside with a wall of windows perfectly positioned to take in the sunset view. Serving up fusion food incorporating lots of seafood with strong Mexican influence, their menu is full of fresh flavors and delicious combinations - don’t forget to order the side of fresh tortillas (flour or corn are available).

Alternatively, Blast & Brew offers laid back menu items such as nachos, fish & chips and burgers that pair excellently with their extensive selection of beers on draft. With beach views and plenty of televisions to watch the big game, this spot is perfect for families and larger groups. Their beach facing windows are also often open to the coastal breeze, making it feel like you are truly on a beach getaway!

The fun doesn’t stop when the sun sets in Pismo Beach

Grab a nightcap at Cypress Beach House located on the rooftop of Inn at the Pier. Kick back under the stars overlooking Pismo’s Pier Plaza with a libation in hand before heading to Pismo Beach’s retro bowling alley. Pismo Bowl is an eight-lane center established in 1939. New editions include automatic score keeping and an arcade.