Pismo Beach, with its stunning coastal views and vibrant atmosphere, is the perfect getaway while attending events at Cal Poly. Just a short drive from the campus, this charming beach town offers a delightful retreat after a day of lectures, workshops, or sporting events. Picture yourself unwinding on the sandy shores, savoring delicious seafood at local restaurants, or strolling through the quaint downtown shops. The warm, inviting community hosts various activities, and seasonal festivals, provide an ideal backdrop for relaxation and recreation. So, make the most of your Cal Poly experience by extending your stay in beautiful Pismo Beach—where the sun, surf, and a sense of adventure await!
Celebrate Cal Poly Graduation in Pismo Beach
Commencement is a once-in-a-lifetime event, meaning the celebration should reflect that! If your Cal Poly student is getting ready to walk across the stage, there’s no better place to do it than in Pismo Beach. Escape the liveliness of the college traffic in town with a nice coastal stay.Â
The to-do list is long for a graduation weekend, but we’re here to help make everything easy. While the commencement may be at the university, the celebration, dinners, photos, and parties can all be within walking distance in Pismo Beach.Â
From booking the right hotel and finding a great spot for that celebratory dinner, to planning fun activities the whole family will enjoy. Here’s a guide to make graduation weekend easy to celebrate in Pismo Beach.
Booking a Graduation Dinner
Graduation weekend can be one of the busiest weekends in town, so local restaurants tend to book up quickly for larger parties. If you plan to celebrate with a group, making reservations in advance is a good idea.
For casual spots that can accommodate large groups, consider Ventana Grill or Cracked Crab, both known for their fresh seafood. Another option is Ada’s Fish House, which has a laid-back atmosphere and award-winning clam chowder. For those wanting craft beer, burgers, and a lively setting closer to Shell Beach, try Shell Beach Brewhouse.
If you’re looking for something more upscale for the big occasion, try Vista Steak and Seafood for the best steaks and seafood with ocean views. Lido Restaurant at Dolphin Bay Resort is another great option closer to Shell Beach, focusing on a seasonal, locally sourced menu. And for a truly elevated experience, Oyster Loft offers huge windows overlooking the ocean with food that never disappoints.
Top Picks For Graduation Drinks
For a fun, casual atmosphere, head to Kulturhaus Brewing Company, where you’ll find a rotating tap list of beers brewed onsite and plenty of space to spread out. Blast & Brew is another great option with self-pour beer taps, tasty bar food, and pub games to keep the celebration going.
For something a little more elevated, Cypress Beach House at the Inn at the Pier offers a stylish rooftop bar with signature cocktails, locally sourced wines, and small bites to share. And if the sun’s out, there’s no better place to soak it in than Wooly’s, right by the beach, with open-air seating, frozen drinks, and a relaxed beachfront vibe that’s pure Pismo.
Best Photo Spots for Graduation Photos
Looking for the perfect spot to snap graduation photos in Pismo Beach? The Pismo Beach Pier is a go-to for classic beach shots. You get the ocean as your backdrop with rolling green hills behind it.Â
Head to Dinosaur Caves Park or the Shell Beach cliffs. You’ll get dramatic coastal views from above and perfect green grass for the foreground. Explore the rugged and rocky cliff sides for a unique shot and fun adventure. There are even tide pools to explore for the right graduate (looking at the marine biology students).Â
The Monarch Butterfly Grove offers a quieter setting surrounded by towering eucalyptus trees that provide perfect lighting. And if you’re up for a short hike, the Pismo Preserve has panoramic ocean views that make for stunning photo ops.
Tips for Getting Around Town and to the Ceremony
With increased traffic and limited parking, you’ll want to know some tips to help you navigate the area smoothly.Â
- Plan for Parking: Public parking lots are available, but they fill up quickly so you’ll want to consider arriving early to secure a spot, or explore parking options a bit farther. Staying in a downtown hotel provides easy parking with their valet.Â
- Utilize Public Transportation: The San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority (RTA) Routes 21 and 24 connect Pismo Beach and downtown areas to SLO.Â
- Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft are readily available in the Pismo Beach area. Using a rideshare service can save you the stress of finding parking, especially during peak hours.
- Explore by Bike or on Foot: Pismo is extremely walkable. Stay nearby and get around on foot! Alternatively, rent a bike to explore the area, enjoy the coastal views, and avoid traffic congestion.
Pismo Beach offers a relaxed, scenic alternative to the usual graduation weekend crowd. Come enjoy the special life experience with your family here.
