Come visit Pismo Beach

GETAWAY-Pismo Beach, just a short drive up the 101 Freeway, has much to offer for the traveler. Known for its sand dunes and fine beaches, Pismo also has good family entertainment, quaint historic buildings and campgrounds. Some travelers use Pismo as a starting point for area sight-seeing. Pismo Beach is not a long drive from the Conejo or Simi valleys or Moorpark. Its downtown area, reached by taking the Price Street exit off the 101 Freeway north, offers a wide range of motels including some with oceanview rooms. Westlake Village resident Ray Holm recommends the Sea Crest, which has a view of the Pismo Pier and access to 23 miles of beach and sand dunes. Public and private campgrounds for tent campers or motor-home travelers are available at the beach.

On Dolliver Street is the Visitor Information Center, where welcome packets can be picked up. There's information on activities for families, where to shop, find Pismo clams, tidepools, rental bicycles, historic buildings and more.

For lunch Holm recommends the Splash Caf for its clam chowder in a bread bowl and other seafood dishes. Pismo has 25 restaurants in its downtown area.

Entertainment options include a Dixieland jazz concert the last Sunday of each month and the annual Jubilee by the Sea Festival featuring 20 jazz bands in late October. Evening fun might include a visit to the Great American Melodrama and Vaudeville.

Nearby sightseeing is available in the historic village of Arroyo Grande or up the coast at Hearst Castle. Visitors can also take a wine-tasting tour at one of the more than 18 wineries located within 15 miles of Pismo Beach.