Apartments and Airbnb in Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach captures the essence of California’s Central Coast with its stunning ocean views, easygoing energy, and variety of outdoor activities. Guests can enjoy everything from kayaking and beachcombing to wine tasting and whale watching. The town’s vibrant downtown features surf shops, wine bars, and oceanfront dining that give it a timeless coastal vibe. With its temperate climate and year-round attractions, Pismo Beach is a favorite for beachgoers and nature lovers alike.

Where to look for an Airbnb in Pismo Beach

Downtown Pismo Beach

Downtown is the heart of the action, with easy access to the pier, beachfront, restaurants, and local shops. Airbnbs here include oceanfront condos, modern townhomes, and vintage beach cottages within walking distance to everything. Visitors can enjoy live music, street festivals, and sunsets from the pier. It’s an ideal location for travelers who want to be close to both the beach and the buzz.

Shell Beach

Shell Beach, located just north of downtown, is a quieter neighborhood known for its dramatic cliffs and tide pools. Vacation rentals in this area include upscale homes, oceanview apartments, and romantic getaways tucked into the bluffs. Guests can walk to coastal trails, secluded beaches, and charming cafés along Shell Beach Road. It’s perfect for those seeking a scenic and peaceful coastal escape.

Pismo Heights

Pismo Heights offers elevated views of the ocean and is just a short drive or walk from the main beach. Accommodations include hillside homes, spacious villas, and cozy retreats with panoramic vistas. This residential area is peaceful, yet still convenient for accessing downtown and the beach. It’s great for couples, families, or anyone wanting views and serenity.

Motel District

The Motel District is a stretch near the beach lined with affordable lodging and is increasingly home to updated vacation rentals. Visitors can find budget-friendly condos, renovated studios, and casual beach apartments close to the ocean. The location offers quick access to surf spots, casual dining, and beach parks. It’s a solid option for those looking for convenience and value.

Oceano Dunes Area

Staying near the Oceano Dunes gives visitors direct access to one of California’s most popular coastal recreation areas. Vacation homes here include large beachfront rentals, RV-friendly properties, and bungalows near the sand. Guests can enjoy ATV riding, horseback riding, and beach bonfires just steps from their front door. It’s the perfect area for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Must-visit places and attractions in Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach Pier

The iconic Pismo Beach Pier is the town’s centerpiece and offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can fish off the pier, watch surfers ride the waves, or enjoy sunsets from the viewing deck. The area around the pier features restaurants, shops, and frequent outdoor events. It’s a must-visit for both first-time guests and returning beachgoers.

Monarch Butterfly Grove

Each winter, thousands of monarch butterflies migrate to this grove of eucalyptus trees just south of downtown. Visitors can walk through the grove, view butterfly clusters, and learn about conservation efforts through ranger talks and signs. The grove is a peaceful and magical place for nature lovers. It’s one of the most unique seasonal attractions on the Central Coast.

Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area

This expansive area is one of the only places in California where you can drive your vehicle directly on the beach. Guests can rent ATVs, go sandboarding, or enjoy a bonfire under the stars. The dunes provide a stunning backdrop for adventure and photography. It’s a favorite spot for thrill-seekers and beachgoers alike.

Dinosaur Caves Park

Perched on the cliffs of Shell Beach, Dinosaur Caves Park offers stunning ocean views, walking paths, and a whimsical playground. Visitors can enjoy coastal breezes, spot seals and pelicans, or relax on the grassy lawn with a picnic. The park also hosts weekend art fairs and community events. It’s a great stop for families or anyone seeking peaceful ocean scenery.

Pismo Preserve

The Pismo Preserve offers over 880 acres of open space with hiking and biking trails that provide panoramic views of the coastline. Visitors can explore native wildflowers, oak woodlands, and scenic overlooks ideal for photography. The preserve is great for morning hikes and sunset treks. It’s a favorite local destination for getting outdoors.

Avila Hot Springs

Just a short drive north of Pismo Beach, Avila Hot Springs offers a relaxing soak in natural mineral water pools. Guests can enjoy spa treatments, rent bikes to explore nearby trails, or cool off in the large swimming pool. The site also features picnic areas and overnight lodging options. It’s a relaxing day trip for wellness and rejuvenation.

Pismo State Beach

Pismo State Beach stretches for miles and offers soft sand, tide pools, and plenty of space for sunbathing or walking. Visitors can birdwatch, surf, or simply enjoy the peace of the rolling waves and sea breeze. The beach is dog-friendly in certain areas and offers campgrounds for extended stays. It’s an essential part of any Pismo Beach vacation.

Tastes of the Valleys Wine Bar

This award-winning wine bar downtown offers tastings of regional wines from the Central Coast’s top vineyards. Guests can sample local varietals, chat with knowledgeable staff, and enjoy small bites in a relaxed, elegant setting. The wine bar also offers bottles to go and curated tasting flights. It’s a perfect spot for wine lovers looking to explore the region’s flavors.

Where to find a vacation rental near Pismo Beach

Avila Beach, California

Located just 15 minutes north, Avila Beach is a charming seaside town with warm weather, a picturesque pier, and boutique-style accommodations. Visitors can stay in beachfront condos, colorful cottages, or romantic inns with ocean views. Booking a vacation rental in Avila Beach puts guests steps from wine tasting rooms and ocean kayaking spots. The area offers wine tasting, sea kayaking, and spa experiences. It’s an excellent alternative for a quieter yet equally beautiful beach stay.

Grover Beach, California

Grover Beach is immediately south of Pismo and offers budget-friendly rentals within walking distance of the beach and dunes. Guests can stay in family homes, beach bungalows, or casual apartments near the train station and local shops. Renting an airbnb in Grover Beach allows travelers to enjoy long beach walks and local seafood at a more affordable pace. The area has a relaxed vibe and easy access to outdoor activities. It’s great for families or travelers looking for more space at a lower cost.

Arroyo Grande, California

Just inland from Pismo Beach, Arroyo Grande is a quaint historic town with charming Victorian architecture and vineyards nearby. Visitors can stay in hillside homes, rustic cottages, or boutique inns surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills. Staying in a house in Arroyo Grande provides a blend of small-town charm and wine country views just minutes from the coast. The downtown village offers antique stores, wine bars, and weekly farmers' markets. It’s perfect for those who want countryside charm near the coast.

San Luis Obispo, California

About 20 minutes northeast of Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo (SLO) is a vibrant college town with a thriving food and arts scene. Vacation rentals here range from modern downtown apartments to historic homes and vineyard-view villas. Choosing an apartment in San Luis Obispo gives guests access to farm-to-table dining, local markets, and nearby hikes. Guests can enjoy nightlife, art galleries, and hiking at Bishop Peak. It’s an ideal base for exploring the Central Coast region.

Los Osos, California

Los Osos, west of San Luis Obispo, offers quiet coastal escapes with access to Montana de Oro State Park and Morro Bay. Visitors can find cozy cabins, seaside homes, and scenic retreats ideal for nature lovers. Staying in a vacation rental in Los Osos lets travelers enjoy morning mist, eucalyptus groves, and remote beaches all within a short drive. The area is known for its peaceful ambiance and outdoor activities like kayaking and tide pooling. It’s perfect for travelers looking to unplug and enjoy nature near Pismo Beach.