Things to Do in Pismo Beach with Kids

If you’re visiting Pismo Beach with kids, you don’t need a packed itinerary, just a few great spots. Here are some of the best family-friendly things to do that are easy, fun, and actually worth your time. As a mom and photographer, I’ve explored every corner of Pismo Beach to find the best places for kids. Below are my top recommendations. You’ll find free things to do and cool spots for the whole family. The weather in Pismo also means that a family vacation is in order at any time of year. Pismo is a dream for kiddos who love to run and play outside in the sun.

Monarch Butterfly Grove

First, let’s start with the Monarch Butterfly Grove in Pismo Beach. The Monarch Butterfly Grove is a favorite among local photographers. It is one of the most versatile locations for photographing families in Pismo Beach. This location is kid-friendly and one of the most picturesque places in town. Even if you’re not taking family photos, this is the perfect place to let your kid run around and burn some energy. There is so much space for kids to play. Best of all, there is no fee to use the property. The children will love walking around and exploring this natural beauty.

Monarch Grove is located on the Southern end of Pismo Beach near Oceano Dunes and the North Beach Campground.

Pismo Beach Pier and Plaza (Classic Family Stop)

Another favorite location is the newly renovated Pismo Beach Pier and Plaza!!! The Pismo Pier is located in beautiful Pismo Beach California. If you visit the pier with kids, you will first notice a whale-themed playground overlooking the ocean. The kids will certainly enjoy this park.

Another must-see when visiting the Pismo Beach Pier and Plaza with your kids is the wooden pier. The structure is inviting to walk and view the activity on the beach below. You can also fish off the pier and there is usually a number of people doing so, there is also a trailer on the pier where you can rent fishing gear if you want to fish. There are also quite a few restaurants around the entrance to the Pier Plaza to eat. I highly recommend the world-famous clam chowder at Splash Café. There are also lots of souvenirs and even beachfront hotels and motels. 

Directions: From the south on Highway 101, take Pismo Beach -Price Street exit, follow it to Pomeroy; turn west and follow it to the pier. From the north, take Hwy. 101 to the Five Cities Dr. exit; follow Dolliver into the middle of town, then turn west on Pomeroy and follow it to the pier and parking lot.

Dinosaur Caves (Best Park for Kids in Pismo Beach)

Dinosaur Caves park is a favorite among locals and visitors. The dinosaur-themed playground is located at 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach, CA 93449. The park is about 2 miles from the Pismo Beach Pier. If you are traveling on the 101 Freeway, you might want to stop here for a bit to stretch while you enjoy the ocean views. There is plenty of parking, clean restrooms, and a well-kept playground for kids.

There is also a large grassy area for dogs. The paved walkways also make this the perfect place to walk your dog. The park is beautiful and spacious for those who want to maintain distance from the crowds. There are a few picnic tables should you wish to use to eat at the park. The park is also very friendly for seniors as it has many benches along the trails. The park is also popular among photographer as it provides the most stunning views and backgrounds.

Pismo Preserve (Great place for a hike)

If you want to go for a hike in the Pismo Beach area, there is nothing comparable to the views at Pismo Preserve. This is such a great location and easy to get to. There is plenty of parking and restrooms are also available. The trail is paved and easy to follow. Bring your camera because the views are stunning!!!

Pismo Bowl

If you need a place to cool off while visiting Pismo, make sure to stop by the Pismo Bowl. This is a great place for family fun. Pismo Bowl is also great for birthday parties! It’s first come first serve, and I’ve found that there are often open lanes available. You can always call ahead of time to make sure it’s not too busy! While you’re there, you can also grab a meal while you bowl. The staff is super nice as well!!!

Pismo Bowl is located at 277 Pomeroy in downtown Pismo Beach. 

Tide Pool at Shell Beach

If your kids love exploring, the tide pools in Shell Beach are one of the best low-key activities in the area. During low tide, you can walk along the rocky shoreline and spot sea stars, anemones, crabs, and small fish tucked into the pools. It feels a little like a treasure hunt, and kids usually stay entertained much longer than you expect.

This is an easy stop to add if you’re already near Pismo Beach, and it’s especially great for families who want something more interactive than just playing in the sand. Just make sure to check the tide schedule before you go—low tide is when the tide pools are fully visible and safe to explore. Closed-toe shoes or water shoes help since the rocks can be slippery.

The Caffeinated Cat Cafe

If you’re looking for something a little different, the Cat Café is a fun stop—especially for kids who love animals. It’s a relaxed, indoor space where kids can interact with adoptable cats while taking a break from the beach. It’s a great option if you need a slower-paced activity or a break from the wind and sand. Plus, it’s small enough that you can pop in without committing a big chunk of your day. The Caffeinated Cat Cafe is located at 1601 W Grand Ave Ste A, in Grover Beach, California 93433.

Family Photo Session

If you’re visiting Pismo Beach with kids, consider planning a family photo session during your trip. The beach gives kids plenty of space to run, play, and explore, which makes it easy to capture natural, genuine moments without forcing anything. Instead of asking kids to sit still, sessions are relaxed and built around what they already love to do, like walking along the shoreline, playing in the sand, and enjoying time together.

It’s also one of the easiest ways to turn your vacation into something lasting. While you’re already together and away from the distractions of everyday life, you can capture this season with photos that feel real and effortless. Years from now, these are the images you’ll come back to, the ones that remind you exactly what this stage with your kids looked and felt like.

I’d love to help you document this season in a way that feels natural and stress-free.

Rosa Clark is an award-winning San Luis Obispo Photographer specializing in family, maternity, and senior portraits. She has been recognized by the National Association of Portrait and Child Photographers (NAPCP) as a Master Photographer in the category of Lifestyle Family Photography. Her work has appeared in local publications like New Times San Luis Obispo and SLO Life Magazine. Rosa is a volunteer photographer for The Gold Hope Project, a childhood cancer non-profit organization.

In addition to photography, Rosa has been a practicing attorney for nearly 20 years. She brings that same level of professionalism, care, and attention to detail to every photo session. Rosa takes on a limited number of clients each month to provide a personalized, relaxed experience—and her calm, natural style has earned her over 60 five-star reviews on Google.

If you’re looking to thoughtfully document this chapter of life, get in touch to reserve your session and begin planning a personalized experience your family will value for years to come.

Sessions are limited each month to ensure a personalized experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Thank you for visiting my blog!! If you are interested in booking a family photography session, please visit my website and reach out to me.

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