When planning a trip to California, there are so many beaches to choose from. If southern California is on the agenda, Pismo Beach is a place you should visit. Like most beaches you can build sandcastles and play in the ocean. There are places you can rent a surf board or body boards, and swim out to the waves. Though many view visiting the beach as a summer activity, camping at the beach is also fun in the winter. Since it’s cold, you may want to explore some of the other close attractions.

Driving on Beach

Driving on the Beach and Dunes

At certain areas of Pismo Beach, you can drive right onto the beach and enjoy camping right on the sand. If you own ATV’s or any other type of off-road vehicle, you can bring them to enjoy driving on the Dunes and beach. They also have companies that you can rent ATV’s from to use while you are there. This is available all year round and it’s a fun way to enjoy the beach in the winter.

Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove

The Monarch Butterfly Grove is a fun outing to see thousands of Monarch Butterflies. They come to this area to escape the cold weather and is such an amazing thing to see. However, if you want to see them, you will have to plan your vacation around their schedule. The season for the butterflies is October through February, so if you can, you should take the time to see this beautiful occurrence.

Dinosaur Park

Dinosaur Park 

Spending the day at the beach is a great way to enjoy your time, but if you need a break, Dinosaur Park is a great place to hangout. There is a unique place for the kids to play that is sea themed with dolphins and whale play equipment and there are also dinosaurs and dinosaur eggs for the kids to play on. Adults have their own playground in this 11-acre park due to the vast trails that overlook the ocean and caves that you can explore. You can walk along and listen to the waves crashing into the shore. It’s such a nice way to end a long relaxing day.

Margo Dodd Park

While at the beach, make sure to look for all the different marine animals and birds. Some areas are better than others for bird and sea animal watching. The Margo Dodd Park is known for being the place to see all these species. There are set areas for bird watching and searching the shore for dolphins and seals. Tide pools are close by that are available for snorkeling and these always have some interesting species to check out. If you happen to show up on a Sunday, you can check out Art in the Park, or you may find your own artistic side looking at the beautiful views that surround Pismo Beach.

Whether you are planning a trip in the summer or the winter, there are so many amazing adventures to be had at Pismo Beach.

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