💡 Local’s Tip

Avila Beach is 5-10°F warmer than Pismo Beach thanks to its sheltered cove—perfect when Pismo is foggy or windy. Custom House restaurant has best fish tacos and outdoor patio. Visit Avila Hot Springs (1 mile inland) after the beach for natural mineral pools. Bob Jones Trail (bike path) connects Avila to Pismo Beach along the coast.

What Visitors Are Saying

Visitors love the warmer, sunnier microclimate and charming small-town vibe compared to Pismo. The protected cove creates calmer waters for swimming, and the waterfront restaurants and pier offer a relaxed day trip atmosphere.

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit: Summer afternoons (June-September) for warmest water and sunshine; weekdays for smaller crowds

Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week

Address: Avila Beach Dr, Avila Beach, CA 93424

Parking: Paid parking lots ($2/hour weekdays, $10/day weekends); free street parking 2-3 blocks inland

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with beach wheelchairs available (call Avila Beach Community Center 805-595-2359)

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between Avila Beach and Pismo Beach?

Avila Beach is a sheltered cove with calmer, warmer water (5-10°F warmer) ideal for swimming and families. Pismo Beach has open coastline with bigger waves, better for surfing and beach walks. Avila has a small-village feel with waterfront promenade; Pismo is larger with more dining/lodging options. Both are 10 minutes apart—visit both! Locals joke: ‘Pismo for surfing, Avila for swimming.’

Can I swim at Avila Beach year-round?

Yes! Avila’s protected cove creates California’s warmest Central Coast water (summer: 60-65°F). Most swimmers prefer June-September when air temps are warmest. Wetsuits extend the season to year-round. Lifeguards on duty Memorial Day-Labor Day. Calm water makes Avila safer for kids than Pismo’s open surf. Morning swims (8-10am) are glassy and less crowded.

Is parking difficult at Avila Beach?

Summer weekends (June-August) see crowded parking lots—arrive before 10am or after 3pm for easier spots. Paid lots charge $10/day weekends, $2/hour weekdays. Free street parking exists 2-3 blocks inland (Front St, San Miguel St). Weekdays and off-season (September-May) parking is easy. Consider biking from Pismo via Bob Jones Trail (4 miles, flat coastal path).

What should I do at Avila Beach besides swim?

Walk the waterfront promenade (shops, restaurants, ice cream), fish from Avila Pier (no license needed), play beach volleyball on public courts, rent paddleboards/kayaks, or visit Central Coast Aquarium (touch tanks, local marine life). After the beach: soak at Avila Hot Springs (natural mineral pools), hike to Point San Luis Lighthouse, or bike Bob Jones Trail to Pismo. Custom House has great fish tacos and patio dining.

🏨 Where to Stay Nearby

Planning to stay in the area? These hotels and resorts are closest to Avila Beach:

🍽️ Where to Eat Nearby

Grab a bite before or after your visit at these restaurants near Avila Beach: