Avila Beach is a coastal town in San Luis Obispo County. And the town has a beach. So I always…read morewondered when referring ti the beach... should it be called Avila Beach's beach. Anyway, the beach is beautiful and family friendly. It had a less commercial retail vibe than Pismo Beach and pier. The waters are a bit calmer than other coastal towns due to the beach being within the San Luis Obispo Bay. They have old fashion steel swing sets on the on the beach (right side of the pier). Speaking about the pier. The pier was originally built in 1908. It's about 1685 feet long. It has been storm damaged many times and repaired, and is still standing. Though right now the far portion of the pier is not open due to retrofitting upgrades. Lots of folks fish off of the pier and take in the sights. I got pretty close to a sea otter enjoying a meal and grooming himself. He was floating right next to the pier. Totally awesome.

I never realized just how close I was to Avila Beach each time my husband and I would take…read moreroadtrips to Santa Barbara. I'd passed Avila Beach off the 101 countless times and never knew! Actually, I had never known about Avila Beach until one night, as I was scrolling through instagram, it showed up on my feed. Someone I was following had posted a short reel and I immediately took to how pretty it was. Anyhow, fast forward to just a few days later (and this is the part that seemed 'meant to be'), we were on our way to Pismo for a little weekend trip when I see an exit for Avila Beach just shortly before Pismo. "No way!" I thought .... This whole time it was just right there? And so, as we checked into our hotel in Pismo we quickly diverted our original plan - rather than Pismo it's off to Avila we go. Just a short 10min drive and there we were. Shops, restaurants, the pier .... Just beautiful. I have to say - that little discovery really made our weekend memorable. I don't know what it was but my family and I really enjoyed the afternoon that we'd spent here. There was something for everyone. I had my jolt of much needed caffeine from Kraken coffee (located right off the beach), my daughter got ice cream (husband did as well). The whole afternoon in this little newfound escape was perfect. The beach is beautiful, there are a few shops and eateries that offer both sweet and some savory. It's a lively place to hang out and relaxing enough to bum out too.

The hike down is short and very manageable. Be sure to turn right if you're heading to the…read morecove/cave, the left trail leads to the beach. We came here for sunset, and the views were absolutely beautiful. I would definitely recommend stopping by!

Ended up taking the long route to Pirate's Cove (parked near homes and took the trail) which we…read morelater found out is the Shell Beach Bluff Trail. We enjoyed this scenic trail, which had multi-million dollar homes to our right, and the beautiful ocean to our left; and a somewhat steep incline up to the dirt parking lot and Cave Landing trailhead. Good thing the weather was perfect and there was a lovely breeze; otherwise I would've stopped walking and demanded to go back to the car. Once we got to the trail, it was a fairly easy short walk to get to the cave. After taking in the stunning views from the cave, we trekked to the cove. Be cautious going down, as it's a steep dirt path and a couple flights of stairs. Also note that clothing is optional, and you may run into people in their birthday suits on this secluded beach.

Locals call this place the Smugglers Cave. Cool name. But it's not really a cave and not near the…read moreshoreline. It's a natural carved tunnel through the a rock formation on a bluff overlooking Avila Beach and the ocean. Sadly though the cave is tagged with graffiti and folks treat the inside of the cave as a trash bin. Disheartening site to see a beautiful work of nature treated like this by those that come to view and hang out. Ironic. The hike from the parking lot is less than half mile one way. It starts at a slight incline. When you get to the point where the path splits to the right and left, turn right... the cave is to the right. You're less than halfway there at this point. The cave overlook has no guardrails, so please pay attention especially with the kiddos. The cliff has a drop. Have your wits about you and stay alert. If you have an overwhelming urge to creep close to the edge to take the perfect selfie, do so cautiously and be aware of your surroundings. Overall the views are gorgeous. But the trash bin cave vibes was a downer.

Date: Monday, July 24th, 2023 Time: around 12:45pm…read more We were at Pirate's Cove so decided to check out a cave. We actually didn't make it all the way down to the beach, but I did go into a cave and enjoy the view on the other side. Not sure if that qualifies as one of the Avila Sea Caves, but I will just assume it does. Parking was pretty easy. There is a small lot. No issues finding a spot since it was a Monday afternoon. We only walked down to the first cave, so probably spent a little more than 15 mins walking around and taking pix. If you enjoy water and a view, I'd say definitely check this spot out. REVIEW #3441

One of the most beautiful and secluded areas I've been to. If you walk down to the dunes via…read moreStrand Street towards where the vehicles congregate you may see a tribune you have to cross. Head east from there as there is a gap between areas that are protected.

I can only assume that Pismo Dunes Natural Preserve gets so little traffic because it's getting…read moreconfused for the more X-treme Oceano Dunes SRVA (which is awesome in its own right). While they are immediately adjacent, they are worlds apart. Making a pilgrimage through the dune grass, away from the ATVs and Jeeps whirling their wheels into sand pits, you'll be rewarded with quiet warmth and geographic perfection. Hours can be spent watching the wind blow miniature canyons into the silk-fine sand, or diving down the tallest dunes only to fall onto the natural pillows of pure beach. Completely protected from cars, traffic, and (frankly) assholes, the Natural Preserve is an arid oasis. I like to imagine that if I were a Chumash living in the area generations ago, I would have a pretty awesome home going in the Dunes. It shouldn't cost you anything to get there. In Oceano, drive to the end of Pier Ave. and park for free either on the street or in the lot, near all the ATV rentals. Walk south about half a mile along the beach, then veer east toward a natural lake. You'll see markers restricting motor vehicle access - go beyond them, and keep going until you hit a clearing...you'll know the Dunes when you see them - they'll make you feel like you've landed on the moon. By far one of my favorite places in SLO County - a definite must for someone looking to relax and soak in some unique, natural beauty. Enjoy.

Such an idyllic park. We stopped by to give our pup some nice playtime and relaxation and were…read moregreeted with the sight of families enjoying the play structure, beautiful cave and rock formations cliffside, various coastal flora and green grass. It is called dinosaur caves park due to the caves and some dinosaur sculptures located in the play area. Apparently there use to be a big dinosaur centerfold but that was taken away. A great walk and area to coast for a bit (pun intended) but bring your own shade.

Beautiful park that sits up on a bluff offering expansive ocean views, picnic areas, playground for…read morekids and plenty of parking. We visited on a beautiful summer day and it was perfect. Park was very busy with families having a great time. In the 1940's, a large metal dinosaur was built here to attract travelers from the highway to a souvenir and tackle shop. Visitors would pay .25 to walk through the dinosaur down to the sea cave. It did not last long to the public complaining as the dinosaur was an eye sore. After many years of this space deteriorating, the city of Pismo Beach bought the land and in 2003, this park opened. If you walk down to the bluffs edge, you will be able to see one of the sea caves. Great place to enjoy a leisurely afternoon.

Very relaxing place to go to. It felt safe. Clean restrooms and sidewalks. Felt like what a park…read moreshould be. Beautiful scenery and photo opportunities.

Just a quick trip to gather my thoughts and take in the amazing views. This is always a beautiful…read moreplace to stop, take a seat, and reflect. It is so peaceful and comforting here with the ocean air and the sound of the waves.

Pismo Beach was exactly the kind of escape I needed A little ocean air, sandy toes, beautiful…read moresunsets, good company, and just enough adventure to make some unforgettable memories. Sometimes you just need to get away, soak it all in, and enjoy where life takes you. Already missing this place!

Stopped by Pismo during recent trip to Morro Bay. Stunning scenery! It really hit my soul just…read morerelaxing on the sand. Didn't get in the water this time. It was also cool to see ATV riders enjoying their ride. Some parts you were able to drive your vehicle down in the sand too! Couldn't be me, I am way too scared tonight get stuck Meet really nice local beach goers near us. Shared their favorite places to eat and their favorite memories. It was a wholesome time. Can't wait to return to Pismo!

After walking barefoot a short distance along the water, we both discovered large oil/tar spots on…read morethe bottoms of our feet. So sad. Other than that, this beach is amazing. The short walk to the beach is nice. Favorite part was no people around! I guess the review about bombs keeps them away.

Sandspit is an often-missed beach at the entrance of the Montaña de Oro State Park. This is the…read moreplace to go if you're seeking the solitude of a long beach walk with very few people. The hike to the end of the spit and back is 10 miles and for every mile you walk the fewer people there will be. It's basically ocean on one side, sand dunes on the other. Not many shells but there are plenty of birds. It's worth visiting. - Bathrooms are pit toilets... no fun - No dogs Tip - if you have any snow/sand sleds you can use them on the dunes at the beach entrance. But only if there are no plover nesting signs out...

Spyglass Park is a clean, fun and scenic park in Pismo Beach. There is a parking lot to park in…read more This park has bathrooms, which were clean when I was there. There is a large grassy area to play on. There are a few picnic tables to eat on. There is a fantastic overlook to see the ocean. There is a semi hidden path to get down to the ocean. The playground is great. Part of the playground is in the shape of a ship. There is plenty of equipment to climb on and a few slides to enjoy. There are toddler swings but there aren't any regular swings. Part of the playground has wood chips underneath, part has soft padding. The playground has a larger and smaller playgrounds. Both playgrounds are in good condition. Have fun out there. -Dadzone

Loved this little hiding spot. It's a cute little park. My dog and boyfriend could have stayed for…read moreliteral hours!!! I loved that there was beach access too. Pretty awesome. I would love to go back for a picnic or just some relaxation! Compared to Central Valley heat, it's a real nice get away in the summer! Definitely recommend this park for families, couples, everyone!

I saw the sign on the side of the road and we stopped. The season for the monarch Butterflies to be…read morehere was already over. I just wanted to explore. It is a beautiful sight if you love nature. It is a short trail if you don't go down to the beach from the trail. We just walk around the area. It is lovely walk and we saw some critters and birds there. We were able to learn of the story and the purpose of it. You can even become a Monarch Hero by helping the cause. Highly recommend. You can scan the QR code and start your donations too. I am planning to comeback when the season starts. I would love to see the butterflies.

I unfortunately did not get her name but the very nice lady behind the counter was very patient…read morewith me, answered all of my questions and gave me contact info for additional concerns. Restrooms kept very neat and product availability was of a nice variety.