Pismo Beach Pier is one of the more consistent surf spots along California's Central Coast. With its 1,250-foot-long pier, which is lit at night, surfers can catch waves even after sunset. Located in a bit of a northwest swell shadow, it's typically smaller and less windy than other nearby spots like Oceano, but bigger than the north beach at Avila. The pier acts as a central hub for South County surfing, so you will find plenty of surfers around, especially during the summer tourist season.

The surf here is generally decent with a variety of banks formed along the beach. The south side of the pier tends to offer better waves, with fun rights sometimes breaking off that side, though they can get a bit walled. The waves here handle swell sizes from about 2 to 8 feet (0.6 to 2.4 meters). During low to mid tides, the conditions are favorable, particularly with peaky windswell or smaller groundswell and light wind. Due to the beach's southwest orientation, summer brings playful swells that cater to all skill levels from beginners to experts. You can ride lefts and rights over a sandy bottom for a fairly enjoyable experience.

Access to the beach is straightforward; just exit the 101 at Price Street, head under the highway, and follow Price Canyon Road to the pier parking lot. Be prepared for some crowds, especially near the pier, but there’s usually a peak down the beach where you can find some space. The vibe is friendly, and most surfers are pretty chill. This spot stays clean and is best from April to October, making it a reliable choice for a surf session.