Dinosaur Caves Park
Dinosaur Caves Park sits dramatically on the coastal bluff in Shell Beach, offering sweeping ocean views, a popular playground, and grassy picnic areas. The park’s name comes from a former tourist attraction (caves carved into the cliff in the 1940s that resembled dinosaurs). Today it’s a family favorite for its colorful playground equipment, open grassy lawns perfect for picnics, and spectacular sunset viewing. The park’s location on the bluffs provides panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Shell Beach coves below.
💡 Local’s Tip
Pack a picnic and arrive 1-2 hours before sunset to claim a grassy spot with ocean views. The playground keeps kids entertained while adults enjoy the scenery. Parking fills fast on summer evenings—arrive by 5pm or walk from Shell Beach Road residential parking.
What Visitors Are Saying
Families love the unique dinosaur-themed playground and spectacular clifftop ocean views. The free park offers clean facilities, picnic areas, and sunset views that rival paid attractions.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the ocean; mornings for playground time with fewer crowds
Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset
Address: 2701 Shell Beach Road, Pismo Beach, CA 93449
Parking: Free parking lot on-site (small lot, 20-25 spaces; arrives early on weekends)
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with ADA parking and paved paths
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Dinosaur Caves Park?
The park’s name comes from a former 1940s tourist attraction where entrepreneurs carved sea caves into the cliff to resemble dinosaur shapes. While the caves are no longer accessible (closed for safety in the 1990s), the nostalgic name remains. Today, the park celebrates its history while offering modern playground facilities and stunning ocean views.
Is there a playground at Dinosaur Caves Park?
Yes! The park features a popular, colorful playground with equipment suitable for toddlers through elementary-age kids. Rubber safety surfacing provides cushioning for falls. The playground area is separated from the bluff’s edge by fencing, making it safe for kids to play while parents relax on nearby benches or picnic tables.
What’s the best time to visit for sunset?
Arrive 1-2 hours before sunset (check local sunset times) to claim a grassy spot with unobstructed ocean views. Summer sunsets (8pm-8:30pm) are most popular—arrive by 5pm on weekends to get parking. Winter sunsets (5pm-6pm) are less crowded. The bluff-top location provides panoramic views as the sun sinks into the Pacific Ocean.
How crowded does the parking get?
The small on-site parking lot (20-25 spaces) fills quickly on summer evenings and weekends. Arrive early (mornings or by 5pm for sunset) or park along Shell Beach Road residential streets (free but limited). Weekday mornings are least crowded. The park is a 5-minute walk from nearby street parking if the lot is full.
🏨 Where to Stay Nearby
Planning to stay in the area? These hotels and resorts are closest to Dinosaur Caves Park:
🍽️ Where to Eat Nearby
Grab a bite before or after your visit at these restaurants near Dinosaur Caves Park:
Zorro’s Cafe & Cantina
$ • family-friendly mexican and american comfort food
📍 0.3 miles from here
Shell Beach Brewhouse
$$ • craft beer and elevated pub food
📍 0.4 miles from here
Marisol at the Cliffs
$$ • oceanfront hotel dining with local ingredients
📍 0.4 miles from here
Lido at Dolphin Bay
$$$ • upscale california coastal fine dining
📍 0.5 miles from here