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Photo: Pismo Beach (California, USA), Pelikan -- 2012 -- 4707 by Dietmar Rabich (CC BY-SA 4.0) License

Pismo Beach

Tourist attraction · Pismo Beach, California

Good conditions todaycamping-nearby

A classic Central Coast beach town known as the "Clam Capital of the World," Pismo Beach features a historic 1,200-foot pier built in 1928 where fishing requires no license. The wide, hard-packed sandy beaches are ideal for walking and sunset watching. From November to February, thousands of migrating monarch butterflies roost in local eucalyptus groves. Nearby attractions include ATV rides at Oceano Dunes, sea cave kayaking, wine tasting in Edna Valley, and the award-winning clam chowder at Splash Café.

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Current water conditions

Water temp
61°F
16°C
Cool water — ease in carefully. Cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. Get in gradually, let your breathing settle, and keep an eye on weaker swimmers.

Live data from NOAA buoy PSLC1 (6.5 mi away), as of Aug 20, 10:30 PM UTC. Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly — always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories before swimming.

Weather at Pismo Beach

H: 73° L: 57°
Cloudy
Cloudy
70°
|
Feels like 69°
Precipitation
20%
Humidity
74%
Wind
9 mph
UV Index
4.8
Water Conditions:
🏊Cool but swimmable
12 AM
Mist
60°
3 AM
Overcast
58°
6 AM
Fog
57°
9 AM
Overcast
60°
12 PM
Sunny
67°
3 PM
Overcast
70°
6 PM
Sunny
71°
9 PM
Clear
62°

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Frequently asked questions

Where is Pismo Beach?
Pismo Beach is a tourist attraction in Pismo Beach, California.
What is the water temperature at Pismo Beach?
As of August 20, 2026, the water temperature at Pismo Beach in Pismo Beach, California is 61°F (16°C), measured by NOAA buoy PSLC1, 6.5 miles away.
Can you swim at Pismo Beach?
There is no fixed answer for Pismo Beach: whether it is safe to swim there on a given day depends on the water temperature, recent rainfall, and any advisories posted at Pismo Beach in Pismo Beach, California. Check current water conditions before you go, and follow posted signs and local guidance.
How is Pismo Beach rated?
Pismo Beach in Pismo Beach, California has an average visitor rating of 4.7 out of 5, based on 2711 reviews.
What amenities does Pismo Beach have?
Visitor-listed amenities at Pismo Beach include camping-nearby.

Visitor Reviews

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Best Times to Visit

👍
Right Now
Good conditions for visiting
General Tips:
  • Weekday mornings (8–10 AM) are typically less crowded
  • Check the forecast 2–3 days ahead for best planning
  • Avoid holiday weekends for a quieter experience
Best Seasons:
☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug)🍂 Fall (Sep-Nov)🌸 Spring (Mar-May)

Location & Contact

100 Pomeroy Ave, Pismo Beach, CA 93449

Pismo Beach, California 93449

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Amenities

Camping nearby

Family & Children

👶 Good for kids