Oceano provides one of the only beaches in California where it is legal to drive. The Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) is open year-round. The area is popular with truck and dune buggy enthusiasts, as well as those looking to beat the heat, so reservations are recommended (particularly on holidays). Campsites are available year-round on the beach and in the open dune area, and include bathroom facilities. Other activities include swimming, surfing, surf fishing, and hiking the dunes to gain spectacular views of the dramatic coastline. The famous Pismo Clam can be found here, too. Clammers must have a valid fishing license and rigid measuring tool (clams must measure at least 4 1/2” to be harvested), and the bag limit is 10 Pismo clams. Even without the appropriate vehicle, visitors can still enjoy thrill rides on the Oceano Dunes with touring companies like Pacific Adventure Tours who do all the driving in their fleet of real USMC Humvees.
If driving on the beach isn’t your thing, ride horseback on the beach. For those who have always wanted to stay, play and gallop on the beach, Pacific Dunes Riding Stables makes riding horseback a fun and safe bucket-list experience. The ranch offers one-hour trail rides on the beach and dunes with their own horses and gear, led by an experienced guide. Overnight boarding is also available for those bringing their own horse, as well as an arena and round pen. Pacific Dunes Riding Stables includes full hookup RV sites for long-term stays, as well as a clubhouse, game room and meeting room. The Ranch boasts a large barbecue area and picnic tables with magnificent sunset views.
For the golf enthusiast, play a round in three of the county’s finest golf courses, all in one destination. Each of Nipomo’s three golf resorts boasts world-class courses and amenities. A high-end golf resort with a laid-back vibe, Blacklake Golf Resort offers 27 holes in three nine-hole layouts for a unique golfing experience that challenges even the best golfer’s game. Monarch Dunes Golf Club includes a traditional 18-hole course as well as a challenge course comprised of 12 three-par holes. At Cypress Ridge, enjoy an award-winning championship course (also a Peter Jacobsen Signature Course) voted one of Golf Digest’s “Best Places To Play” (and one of the Central Coast’s most sought-after wedding venues). All three resorts offer private instruction, while Blacklake and Monarch Dunes each also offer dining options.
Things to do in Oceano & Nipomo
Come experience Oceano & Nipomo like the locals.
where To Stay in Oceano & Nipomo
Plan your stay at one of the many hotels or vacation rentals in Oceano & Nipomo.
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Beachfront VacationBeachfront VacationOceano
Book a Beachfront Vacation now to enjoy a memorable getaway to Pismo Beach, California at this house that can sleep up to 12!
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Saltwater Pool ParadiseSaltwater Pool ParadiseOceano
The Saltwater Pool Paradise is a beautiful and updated vacation rental near Pismo Beach, California on Highway 1.
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Oceano InnOceano InnOceano
The Oceano Inn awaits your arrival to this scenic, coastal spot along the Pacific Ocean on Highway 1 in California.
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Secluded CottageSecluded CottageOceano
The Secluded Cottage is a contemporary getaway vacation rental in Oceano, along Highway 1 and is welcoming for small families and dogs.
Oceano & Nipomo travel videos
events in Oceano & Nipomo
Plan your next roadtrip to Oceano & Nipomo around events and happenings.
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Wine 4 Paws
Pet loving wine drinkers can help our four-legged friends by visiting ANY of the participating wineries throughout the weekend, when a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Woods Humane Society!
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4th of July in Pismo Beach
Live bands will entertain visitors until 9pm, when the fireworks start! VIP seating is available on the pier for a charge. Arrive early in the day to stake out your best viewing spot on the sand. Bring some blankets and an umbrella for a great day at the beach. You can the kids can spend […]
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Central Coast Arthritis Bike Classic
The ride takes place each fall and aims to raise over $1 million dollars. Approximately 350 arthritis patients, families and supporters who are recruited by our staff will cycle over 525 miles raising funds and awareness for the Arthritis Foundation along Highway One. This event is marketed and publicized nationwide, with a focus in the […]
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Spartan Ultra Weekend
Spartan Trail, scheduled to be held in San Luis Obispo County at Santa Margarita Ranch, is a trail race with distances of 10k, 10k Night Run, Half Marathon and 50k.
travel articles about Oceano & Nipomo
Read about why Oceano & Nipomo is the perfect California Highway 1 road trip for those seeking a special California beach town experience.
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Oceano Dunes District Visitor Center
This facility provides our community and park visitors with new educational opportunities.
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Horseback RidingHorseback RidingOceano
Riding a horse amidst the beauty of coastal San Luis Obispo County can be a transforming experience. Get saddled up and discover a whole new perspective on our special stretch of Highway 1, from equestrian trails to vineyards.
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Biplane RidesBiplane RidesOceano
Whether you're seeking a calm and serene Pier or Pier & Dunes flight, or an all-out Top Gun flight, we have something for everyone!
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Oceano & Nipomo
Oceano provides one of the only beaches in California where it is legal to drive. The Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) is open year-round. The area is popular with truck and dune buggy enthusiasts, as well as those looking to beat the heat, so reservations are recommended (particularly on holidays). Campsites are available […]
where to eat in Oceano & Nipomo
Check out all the restaurants and good eats in Oceano & Nipomo.
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Umi Sushi PacificaUmi Sushi PacificaGrover Beach
At Umi Sushi Pacifica, you will find creative, unique, fresh and delicious options on the menu for sushi, unique and traditional rolls, salads, udon, teriyaki and grilled meats.
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Old Juan’s CantinaOld Juan’s CantinaOceano
A Fiesta and a Feast … at Old Juan’s Cantina
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Me n Ed’s PizzeriaMe n Ed’s PizzeriaNipomo
Me n Ed's Pizzeria is dedicated to bringing you brick oven baked pizza that will have you coming back for more.
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Sylvester’s Burgers ~ OceanoSylvester’s Burgers ~ OceanoOceano
It's Big, It's Hot, It's Juicy! Serious Central Coast burger nuts swear by Sylvester's, where the meaty motto is a smiling burger with Mickey Mouse-like hands and feet declaring that he's "Big, Hot 'n Juicy."
connect With Oceano & Nipomo
Official travel map and social media for Oceano & Nipomo.
More to Explore on Highway 1
Check out these other amazing places on the Highway 1 Road Trip in San Luis Obispo County.
Explore the Highway 1 Road Trip
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