Colder Days? More Clam Chowder.
This month’s newsletter is a little different—we’re celebrating a big day in Pismo Beach! February 25th marks National Clam Chowder Day, and if there’s one thing Pismo does best, it’s chowder. Nearly every restaurant in town has its own delicious take, and we’re here to help you find the best bowls.
But before we dive into the ultimate chowder roundup, here are a few exciting happenings around town you won’t want to miss!
A Splash of Wine & Whales

February is also Humpback Whale Awareness Month! To celebrate the marine mammals of our waters, the Pismo Beach Stewardship and Educational Outreach program is hosting an entire weekend dedicated to whales.
From March 14th to March 15th, join us for any of these exciting weekend events:
- March 14th, 6 PM: Sunset Sand Art with Avery
- March 15th, 10 AM. Beach Clean-Up at the Pismo Beach Pier.
- March 15th, 6 PM. A Splash of Wine and Whales at The Cliffs
The evening event at The Cliff’s Hotel on March 15th will immerse you in the world of whales as local expert Adam Ernster shares stunning footage and a personal presentation. There will be small bites and local wine offered at the welcome reception alongside local artists and partner organizations.
Still Feeling the Love? Escape to Pismo Beach!
Valentine’s Day may have passed, but the romance doesn’t have to end! Treat your loved one (or yourself!) to a spontaneous getaway in beautiful Pismo Beach. Find great deals on lodging and create a romantic escape any time of year.
20 Bowls of Pismo Beach Clam Chowder
Pismo Beach earned it’s title as the Clam Capital of the World. With it’s clamming history and a huge annual festival dedicated to the Pismo clams, it only make sense that clam chowder is taken very serious here. There’s an entire event dedicated to crowning the best clam chowder in town, and the competition gets steeper every year. Don’t worry… the list below will share who won the 2024 Clam Chowder Cook-Off (in case you missed it this year).
To celebrate National Clam Chowder Day properly, we’ve compiled this list of everywhere you can find a bowl of chowder in this town. Normally we’d suggest trying them all, but that sounds like a dangerous feat.
Rock & Roll Diner- Won Judge’s Choice
Starting off with the Judge’s Choice at the 2024 Clam Festival Cook-Off!
Ada’s Fish House- Won People’s Choice
Always a fan favorite, crowned the People’s Choice Winner for the 2023 AND 2024 Clam Festival Cook Off!
Wooly’s
Ocean views and a hearty bowl of comfort to match them? Head to Wooly’s.
Sunsets at Pismo
Savor sunset vibes with every spoonful on the Pismo Beach pier.
SUNSETS AT PISMO
Old SLO at The Cape
The newest spot in town isn’t letting anyone down with their giant bread bowl.
Marisol Restaurant at The Cliffs Resort and Spa
Luxury meets comfort in this elevated chowder.
SeaVenture Beach Hotel and Restaurant
Clam chowder with a view and a glass of local white wine.
Cypress Beach House
Chowder next to a fire on a rooftop overlooking the beach? Enough said.
That’s all for the clam chowders! If you made it this far, you must truly love a good bread bowl of chowder. Don’t miss the next Clam Chowder Cook Off at the Pismo Beach Clam Festival in October!

