Pismo Beach Kid Friendly Things To Do

As you spend time in Pismo Beach, you’ll most likely never want to leave. Halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Pismo Beach offers mild temperatures, fresh air, and sunshine, with plenty of indoor, outdoor, and beach activities for the entire family.  With great shopping, good food, and fun attractions, there is no better place for a family vacation. Here are a few of the many kid friendly things to do:

Pismo Beach Pier Plaza

Take selfies at the colorful 7-ft tall letters spelling out Pismo Beach or near the humpback whale sculpture. Grab a snack or drink at one of the vintage Airstreams. Spend the day lounging on the sand, playing on the beach, wading in the water, swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, and more. The shorefront near Pismo Pier has lifeguards on duty, a boardwalk, and other amenities—tons of fun for all ages!

Shell Beach Tidepools

Be sure to check for the lowest tide to plan your visit. Park at Dinosaur Caves Park. It is a bit of a walk down to the tidepools at the base of steep cliffs. View small sea creatures, such as sea anemones, snails, limpets, and urchins. Remember to use good stewardship when visiting the tidepools.

Dinosaur Caves Park

At the end of Shell Beach, this beautiful, kid and family friendly park covers 11 acres of ocean views. It’s a great place to walk, dog walk (on leash), jog, and visit the large, unique, dino-themed play area and swings.

Margo Dodd Park

This park is perfect for letting your little ones cruise around the grassy lawns above Shell Beach. Have a family picnic, explore the tidepools during low tide down on the beach, or just chill and relax!

Eldwayen Ocean Park

This 1.5-mile-long oceanfront park above Shell Beach has outstanding views, access to the beach and tidepools below, park benches, and picnic tables—great for families!

Pismo Bowl (805) 773-2482

Pismo Bowl, family owned/operated since 1939, provides affordable family fun. It is one of the oldest continually running bowling alleys in California, offering a unique bowling experience for all ages. Open daily from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm and Friday and Saturday (when busy) until midnight.

San Luis Obispo Children's Museum (805) 545-5874

The Children’s Museum is a fun place to discover, explore, and learn through play in a rich environment of hands-on exhibits, programs, and an outside playscape. The interactive museum is perfect for ages 1 through 10, conveniently located in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo at 1010 Nipomo Street. Open Thursday through Monday 10:00 am – 12:30 pm (closed for cleaning) and 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.