Pismo Beach Pier
After months of staying indoors with only an occasional getaway to the supermarket, it was a huge relief to take a short road trip to the coast. The weather was warm and the sky was clear. Though Pismo Beach was hopping with weekenders, we found parking a short distance from the beach. Most of the people on the pier and on the beach had their masks on.
The wooden pier is 1,200 feet long and extends out into the Pacific Ocean. It was renovated in 2020. There are a couple of vintage Airstream concession stands along its length offering snacks, drinks and souvenirs. The pier is connected to the plaza which has shops, cafés and a children’s playground.
Stairs lead down to the beach from both the north and south sides of the pier. It was fascinating to see the pylons supporting the pier.
The pier has the best view of the surfers who, this late in the day, are still waiting patiently to ride the big wave.
Sunset is that time of day when everyone stands quietly staring at the horizon until the sun is no longer visible.
How to get to Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach is between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Take Highway 101 to San Luis Obispo. Exit at Price Street and follow signs to the beach. Pismo Beach is 190 miles from Los Angeles (depending on your starting point) and 242 miles from San Francisco. Nearest airport is San Luis Obispo County Airport. There is also an Amtrak train service to Pismo Beach.
Images by TravelswithCharie