
Pismo Beach has been on my radar for a few years. It’s a decidedly ‘chill’ community that’s home to a 17-mile stretch of sandy beach.
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You can ride ATVs on the beach, boogie board through the wake, or stroll down it to catch a prime West Coast sunset. The Pismo Beach Pier is also an iconic landmark that you can’t miss. There are non-beachy activities, too, like checking out Dinosaur Caves State Park and the monarch butterfly sanctuary.
Locals are known for being active, welcoming, and dedicated to maintaining their mom-and-pop businesses. If you enjoy California towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Santa Barbara, you’ll enjoy Pismo Beach. Best of all, it’s still under the radar for many, meaning you won’t run into the same dense crowds year-round.
But you’ll need a place to stay as you soak up the relaxed vibes, endless sunshine, and droolworthy sunsets. If you prefer hotel stays, I highly recommend checking out SeaVenture Beach Hotel. It’s been on my hotel bucket list since Pismo slid to the top of my actual bucket list. It’s a funky property located right on the beach with balcony views from select rooms.
If not, shack up at one of these Airbnbs in Pismo Beach, located right on the sand or just a few blocks away—no drives needed.
Airbnbs in Pismo Beach close to the water
Two-bedroom home one block from the beach

This is a comfortable two-bedroom home that has all the features you’d want from a relaxed beach vacation. First, you’re just one block from Pismo Beach. Second, you’ve got a large patio with a grill setup and an outdoor shower. Third, a long driveway gives you tons of space for parking if you have more than one car. It’s Pismo Beach made easy.
Coastal Mountain Retreat – Valentina Suites

I’m not sure if this is a private rental or part of a larger property, but you’ve got all the basics at this one-bedroom. There’s a full kitchen, a balcony, and room for four thanks to a sleeper sofa in the living room. Just know that it’s a little smaller than other units on this list. It’s perfect for anyone who will spend more of their time exploring the area and wants a clean, simple retreat to come back to.
Beach Cottage Guest House

This bohemian one-bedroom guest house gives you a cozy, stylish hideaway during your visit. It’s got tiny home vibes, especially with the combined bedroom-bathroom, but has updated features for a modern finish. There’s also a solid backyard with a wooden patio and a grill setup. Just know that you need to find street parking, which is available overnight.
Oceanview Home

If you’re visiting with a group, look no further. This large home sleeps up to nine guests in two bedrooms, including a bunkbed setup for kids. There’s also a large rooftop with ocean views, a grill setup, and furniture. That’s not the only outdoor space to enjoy, as this rental also has a large wraparound porch. The kitchen is also fully set for large meals, while the home also has multiple dining areas. Lastly, the home is just a block away from the beach.
193 Main Street

This cozy beach cottage has everything you could need for a getaway with your partner. You can walk to downtown Pismo Beach while also being just a few steps from the sand. There’s a comfortable king-sized mattress in the bedroom, along with room to fit a few more on the pullout sofa. There’s also a very small patio with a mini charcoal grill, and a beautiful mural painted on the outside of the rental. Points for style!
1500-Square-Foot Oceanfront Home

Pull out all the stops on your Pismo Beach trip with this grand oceanfront rental. You’ve got private balconies with ocean views, a private two-car garage, updated finishes throughout, and even beach toys and chairs at your disposal. This is a designer home that comes with lovely design features throughout, including hand-painted wall art and state-of-the-art furnishings.
Beach Escape #A

You can fit up to seven guests in this two-bedroom condo. It’s located just two blocks from the beach, and also has a large private, furnished patio with a grill setup. If you’re traveling with a larger group, reach out to the host. Beach Escape #A is one of multiple units inside this property, which you can rent all at once when you coordinate with the host. It would be perfect for a multi-family getaway or a large group trip.
Cozy Home Near the Pier

This two-bedroom home sleeps up to six with a pullout couch. It’s got a cozy, beachy setup, along with a private patio with a grill and a private balcony. The location is also walkable, giving you access to the beach and downtown Pismo.
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