It’s no secret, but it’s still special. Yes, many people have discovered
Pismo Beach, California, but if newcomers plan properly — i.e., avoid
June, July and August — they will appreciate every inch of the
saltwater playground.
Located a couple hours north of Los Angeles off Highway 101, the seaside
resort is known for many things, not the least of which are great RV
campgrounds and riding all-terrain vehicles on the only drivable beach
in the state. This is “old” California, authentic and interesting —
without the shock value. An air of the ’50s seems to permeate the place,
especially the downtown area near the 1,200-foot pier. Annual events
promote this down-to-Earth feeling with the Classic Car Show and the
July 4th Parade. State park trails lead to undiscovered coves, the
Monarch Butterfly Cove and the Pismo Nature Center.
A variety of restaurants dot the friendly roads, but one in
particular requires closer inspection. The Splash Cafe is the most
renown and respected of the clam capital’s eateries. Established in
1989, today the little corner hideaway serves up more than 25,000
gallons of its world-famous clam chowder. Owners Joanne and Ross Currie
recently finalized their frozen recipe for their chowder, and now offer
it in the freezer sections of several establishments, including Costco!
Pismo Beach has several very attractive neighbors, including
Arroyo Grande (save room for a cone of Doc Burnstein’s ice cream),
Grover Beach, Avila Beach (great golf course), Cambria (unique shopping)
and the incredibly beautiful San Simeon, home of the Hearst Castle.
Travelers should plan at least three days in the area to take advantage
of the many outdoor activities.
For more information, contact the Pismo Beach Chamber of Commerce at (805) 773-4382, or go to http://www.classiccalifornia.com.
