Parks, Trails and Beaches
Pismo Beach boasts a variety of parks, courts, and beach access points for residents and visitors to enjoy. From the scenic Margo Dodd Park overlooking the ocean to the family-friendly Dinosaur Caves Park, there’s a green space for everyone. Sports enthusiasts can find tennis and pickleball courts at Palisades Park, while several other parks offer amenities like volleyball courts and open fields. With numerous access points along its coastline, Pismo Beach ensures easy entry to its beautiful sandy shores and stunning ocean views.
Dinosaur Cave Park
This 11-acre ocean front bluff top park is popular with walkers, photographers, dog lovers, joggers and fishing enthusiasts. Park amenities include a wedding overlook as well as a grassy reception area and an amphitheater for entertainment events are available to rent on an hourly basis. A restroom and off-street parking are also offered. Additionally, a large unique play area is found in the park and includes two concrete dolphins; Oreo the Orca Whale; the USS IMAGINATION, a fine galleon; three beautiful dinosaur eggs; one gentle dinosaur and three playful seals. A tire swing and tot swing also grace the play area.
Monarch Butterfly Grove
The Monarch Butterfly Grove is located half a mile south of Pismo Beach just off Hwy 1. Nov-Feb is the only time to see butterflies in the grove. For more information, directions, or to set up group tours you can also call the Interpretive Center at: 805-474-2664
Price Historical Park
This 7-acre city park features the rancho home of city founder John Price. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as a California Point of Historical Interest, as a Pismo Beach Historic Landmark, and designated by the Department of Interior National Park Service as a Juan Bautista de Anza Trail Interpretive Site, it is planned to become a ranch museum with Indian village and adobe ruins. Trails and replica Chumash Village are open daily to the public for hiking and picnicking. The 1893 historic Price Anniversary House is undergoing restoration and is open for tours by appointment year-round or at 1:00pm 1st & 3rd Sundays May through October except holidays. Take the trail at the end of Frady Lane 2 blocks south of 7-11 on Hwy 1 or drive to 100 Rancho Pismo Drive via Highland Drive. Info and tours.
