Monarch Butterfly Grove at Pismo State BeachĪnother highlight at Pismo State Beach is the Monarch Butterfly Grove, where thousands of vibrant Monarch butterflies cluster around the branches of eucalyptus trees from late October through February. There is also a children's play area on the beach. The Pismo Beach Pier has benches so that visitors can relax and admire the ocean views. When the conditions are right, scuba diving is possible, and whale watching is popular during the migration season.įacilities at Pismo State Beach include public restrooms and showers, water fountains, and a parking lot. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer. Pismo State Beach is also a great place for sailing and kayaking.
However, the beach tends to be windy, which keeps it cooler and is fabulous for flying kites. During July and August, the temperature can reach the high 90s. Pismo Beach has a warm, sunny climate year-round with an average temperature ranging from 68 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Things to do include beach volleyball and fishing on the Pismo Beach Pier. During summertime, the sandy beach is a lively scene of sunbathers and sports enthusiasts. Surfers and bodyboarders favor this expansive 60-acre stretch of shoreline because of its consistent waves. This classic beach destination has many hotels, surf shops, cafés, and fish & chips restaurants packed into the main downtown, which is backed by a lively oceanfront scene around the Pismo Beach Pier. The laid-back town of Pismo Beach has the feel of Southern California, even though it's in the heart of the Central Coast. Exhibits focus on the history of the Spanish missionaries and the culture of Native American people of this area.Īnother highlight is the gift shop, which sells jewelry, artwork, books, and unique items such as handcrafted nativity sets. Housed in the former residential quarters is an interesting museum. Mass is held here daily and several times on Sundays. The simple altarpiece and high ceiling supported by wood beams lend a serene ambience. The interior of the mission's church is exquisitely decorated with a brightly painted floral motif along the walls and arches. The typical Spanish missionary adobe building features porticoed arcades and a courtyard garden planted with oak trees, grape vines, and roses. The mission is a large complex overlooking the tranquil tree-shaded San Luis Creek. Father Serra chose this idyllic site because of its mild climate, abundant fresh water, and the friendly local Chumash (Indian) tribe. One of California's most beautiful missions, San Luis Obispo de Tolosa was founded by Father Junipero Serra in 1772 and dedicated to Saint Louis, the Bishop of Toulouse in France. Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to recent global health and safety issues. See also: Where to Stay in San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo is also a popular halfway stopping point on a drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles.ĭiscover the best places to visit in and around this charming Central Coast town with our list of the top attractions and things to do in San Luis Obispo. Just 10 miles away are gorgeous sandy beaches, rejuvenating hot springs, and a picturesque rural landscape. The local farmers' market also makes San Luis Obispo a worthwhile destination for visitors. Visitors will enjoy strolling along the pleasant tree-lined streets, dining outdoors beside a babbling creek, or listening to crickets chirp in the evenings. There are a handful of noteworthy sights in and around the town, and outdoor activities draw tourists to the area year-round.
San Luis Obispo has the inviting ambience of a small California community with its laid-back atmosphere and lovely Spanish-style architecture.
Nestled in the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains in Central California, San Luis Obispo is proud to be called the "Happiest City in America." This cheerful town has a friendly atmosphere, 315 days of sunshine a year, a fun-loving student population, and amusing attractions like Pismo Beach and Bubblegum Alley. We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )