Eldwayen Ocean Park

Ocean Blvd, Pismo Beach, CA 93449

Hours

Open daily 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Cost

Eldwayen Ocean Park has no admission fee, so you can enjoy this beautiful slice of the Central Coast for free.

805-773-7063

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About

A destination you need to add to your Pismo Beach things-to-do list is Eldwayen Ocean Park. This 1½-mile oceanfront park features a grassy recreation area, picnic tables and benches, stairs to a sandy beach, and tide pools. It's the perfect spot for family picnics, nature lovers, and beachgoers.

Despite being relatively small, Eldwayen Ocean Park packs a punch with its breathtaking ocean views, accessible tide pools, and laid-back vibe that makes everyone feel welcome.

The park also reflects the community's commitment to preserving natural spaces so everyone can enjoy California's stunning coastline. Its location along the scenic Shell Beach area attracts photographers, artists, and those who want to admire the rugged coastline.

Eldwayen Ocean Park has impressive sweeping views of the Pacific and is ideal for a picnic dinner to watch the sunset. Its proximity to the Chapman Estate makes combining multiple attractions in a day doable and one more reason to add it to your vacation itinerary.

Eldwayen Ocean Park: Fun Facts & Cool Features

Eldwayen Ocean Park is known for its pebbly beach, which offers a unique coastal experience. Unlike sandy beaches, the small, smooth stones make a distinctive texture underfoot and a beautiful sight as the waves wash over them.

The park is also popular with kayaking enthusiasts due to its easy ocean access. The nearby parking lot is only a few steps from the beach, making hauling a kayak by hand less strenuous. If you'd like to kayak but didn't bring one on your vacation, contact companies like Central Coast Kayaks to see about renting one to explore the waters off Eldwayen Ocean Park.

By far, the park's most fascinating feature is its tide pools. When the water recedes at low tide, these natural wonders reveal an array of marine life, like starfish, mussels, sea anemones, and small fish. It's a hands-on educational experience that delights young and old alike.

While the cliffs are not extremely tall, they serve as a vantage point for stunning views of the Central Coast. The park benches atop the cliff make resting and reflecting on the panoramic ocean views worth the visit.

Another appealing aspect of the park is the breathtaking sunsets. Pack a picnic or grab a meal from local eateries like Ventana Grill or Zorro's Cafe & Cantina and enjoy at one of the picnic tables. What could be better than savoring classic Cali cuisine as you watch the sun dip beyond the horizon?

The park's serene setting makes it a popular spot for meditation and yoga enthusiasts, who practice amidst the sound of the waves and the sight of the horizon.

Whether you are a nature lover or seeking adventure or relaxation, Eldwayen Ocean Park will enrich your Pismo Beach getaway.

Getting There

From downtown Pismo Beach, take Price Street north until it turns into Shell Beach Road.
Continue on Shell Beach Road and look for street parking near Eldwayen Ocean Park.
The park is well-signposted and accessible from several points along Shell Beach Road.
Address: Ocean Blvd, Pismo Beach, CA 93449

Local Tips

Visit during low tide for the best tide pool experiences.
Picnic tables are first come, first served.
Bring a blanket for a picnic in case the tables are being used.
Please keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them.

Location

Ocean Blvd, Pismo Beach, CA 93449

Frequently Asked Questions

If someone only had one day in Avila Beach, what should be on the itinerary?

Avila Beach is a small seaside town with a big-time charm that’s hard to condense into one day. But if we had to choose, our perfect day would start with breakfast and coffee at Fat Cat’s Cafe on Harford Pier. With classic breakfast food anyone would enjoy and located right next to the pier, it’s easy to walk off that delicious meal while enjoying the morning coastal air and listening to the sounds of the Pacific Ocean waves. You might even catch a glimpse of the local herd of sea lions. Being outside is a must, whether it’s walking the beach or taking a hike through the hills. Bob Jones Trail is highly recommended for people a leisurely biking/walking trail that goes from the land to the sea and can be accessed right from Downtown Avila.

After breakfast, take a drive down the famous Highway 1- a great way to experience the rich biodiversity of the central coast. Explore other nearby coastal towns like Morro Bay and Cayucos, each with its own unique charm.

However, the main thing to do in Avila Beach is relax. Spend time on the incredible beaches, get your toes in the sand, and enjoy the serene environment. Don’t miss the chance to shop the boutiques, go wine tasting, or dine at the ocean-side restaurants.

To wrap up the day, Mr. Rick’s offers a lively scene with great drinks and live music. One of the most popular places in Downtown Avila, hangout out with the locals and get a feel for what life is like in Avila.

What are the top 3 restaurants I should visit in Pismo Beach?

While exploring the culinary delights of Pismo Beach and its surroundings, there are three top-tier restaurants you simply must visit. Each offers a unique dining experience that’s a testament to the area’s rich gastronomic culture.

First up, venture a little south to Arroyo Grande to visit Ember, renowned for its commitment to seasonal fare and artisanal wood-fired cooking techniques. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, perfectly complementing a menu that’s both innovative and comforting. Each dish reflects the chef’s passion for farm-to-table philosophy and the rich agricultural bounty of California’s Central Coast.

Next, Nate’s on Marsh in San Luis Obispo is a gem that locals and visitors alike adore. This eatery prides itself on a creative menu that pairs classic comfort food with a modern twist. The ambiance combines casual elegance with a touch of historical charm, set within the vibrant downtown scene of San Luis Obispo, making it a delightful culinary stop.

Lastly, Ox + Anchor in San Luis Obispo is a modern take on the classic steakhouse, serving up prime cuts of meat alongside fresh, locally-sourced seafood. The chic and sophisticated decor sets the stage for an upscale dining experience. The wine list is as impressive as the menu, featuring local Central Coast vineyards and beyond, ensuring the perfect pairing for your meal.

Each of these restaurants is a destination in itself, promising not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience that captures the spirit of the region.

What are the biggest events in Pismo & Avila Beach area?

When vacationing in Pismo Beach, CA, there are two main events that are absolute must-sees, each offering a unique slice of what makes this coastal city so special. The first is the Monarch Butterfly Arrival, a natural spectacle that takes place from late October through February. During these months, Pismo Beach becomes a temporary home to thousands of vibrant Monarch butterflies. The sight of these delicate creatures fluttering en masse is truly mesmerizing and one of nature’s most beautiful displays. Visitors from all over gather at the Monarch Butterfly Grove to witness this annual migration, which has become a beloved and awe-inspiring sight in the community.

Another event steeped in local tradition is the Pismo Beach Clam Festival, a hallmark event since 1946. This festival is a celebration of the city’s clamming legacy, inviting locals and visitors to enjoy a weekend full of festivities. With a parade, live music, food vendors, and a clam chowder cook-off, it encapsulates the heartwarming community spirit and the gastronomic heritage of Pismo Beach. The Clam Festival not only pays homage to the city’s past but also offers a delightful experience for all ages, making it an unmissable event for anyone visiting Pismo Beach.