For the 39th year, car enthusiasts will come from all over the world to celebrate one of the best car shows in California. Chrome sparkles in the sun with the sound of roaring engines and breaking waves in the background. The Classic at Pismo Beach is an event visitors wait for all year, and it’s almost here.
Car shows are best done with a salty breeze in the air and a feeling that you are just stepping back in time fifty years. There’s no better place to feel that way than Pomeroy Avenue in Pismo Beach. Make the most of your stay with this insider’s guide to The Classic.
Arriving and Parking
This is one of the largest events of the year in Pismo Beach, so arrival can be busy. The trick is to arrive early if you can.
The parking near the Pismo Pier fills up quickly and many spots are reserved for the cars being shown. For the best spots closer to the car show, plan to park before 9 a.m..
Don’t need to worry if you’re arriving later, there are plenty of options. Parking farther up Price Street or in the residential areas just off the main drag may be the best choice. It requires walking a few extra blocks but you’ll avoid the traffic jams closer to the show.
Booking a hotel within walking distance will eliminate the hassle altogether, but book early as the rooms fill up fast!
Navigating the Show
Once you’ve arrived, make sure to take a breath of the fresh ocean air.
Local tip: Start your loop at the pier and head down Pomeroy Street until Price. Don’t miss the side streets, where you might stumble upon hidden gems!
Local Eats and Drinks
Exploring the car show works up an appetite and Pismo Beach has plenty of restaurants to fuel up. For breakfast, Penny’s All American Cafe is a classic stop before a car show. Honeymoon Cafe or Beachin’ Biscuits are both great options for a quicker bite that can be taken on the walk with you. There are food trucks along the main strip during the entire event, offering a huge selection of tempting and quick eats as you walk by.
As the sun starts setting, grab a famous bread bowl of Clam Chowder from Splash Café or unwind with a cold craft beer at Kulturhaus.
What NOT to Miss!
It’s easy to miss moments with such a fun-filled and packed weekend. There will be live music on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with beer gardens. Notable events to keep your eye out for are:
Saturday:
- 9 AM – Sand Art at the Pier
- 10 AM – Opening Ceremony
- 6 PM – Official Classic at Pismo Beach Cruise begins on Price St & Pomeroy
Sunday:
11 AM – Awards Ceremony
Day into Night, Make the Most of It
This car show is so much more than just a street lined with cars, and you’ll feel it as soon as you arrive. The energy of this community is unique with its collective excitement, and it lasts all weekend long from morning to night. Visitors wait all year for this event, and it’s obvious why when you get here.
Each night the show ends, people come together to watch sunsets and share stories from all over. Neon signs light up Pomeroy Street, people walk the pier at all hours, and the laughter echoes through the walls of town.
Staying overnight makes the trip all the more worthwhile, giving time to explore and relax without a rush. Mark your calendar, book your stay, and become part of this welcoming community of car lovers.
