Avila Beach
Protected from heavy surf and winds by Point San Luis, Avila Beach is usually warmer than other beaches along the central coast. Half-mile long Avila Beach spreads along the shore of San Luis Obispo Bay, 6 miles north of Pismo Beach. Avila Beach is known as a family friendly stretch of sand.
Three piers extend into San Luis Obispo Bay near Avila Beach. The 1,685-foot Avila Beach Pier is a favorite for fishing and general sight-seeing. The nearby Harford Pier is a national historic structure. Today it is used by commercial fishing boats for off-loading their catches. California Polytechnic State University maintains a third pier for use in the marine research. It is not open to the public.
Avila Beach Community
Tourism is the heart of the town of Avila Beach's economy. Upscale resorts, hot springs spa treatments, tours, golf, tennis and other activities abound. The Avila Beach Promenade is a closed off section of Front Street that runs along the edge of the beach.
To the west is the tiny community of Port San Luis with several restaurants, the Harford Pier, a public boat launch ramp, Olde Port Beach, and Fisherman's Beach.
Buying Beach Supplies
From sandy Avila Beach, a quick stroll into town will take you to a number of shops that cater to beach-goers.
- Hula Hut (380 Front St.) sells everything from ice cream to beach souvenirs.
- The Sea Barn (444 Front St.) carries towels, t-shirts, swim suits, sunglasses and more.
- This Little Fishy (468 Front St.) is a children's boutique with swim suits, footwear, beach gear, and more.
- Woodstone Market (6675 Bay Laurel Pl.) is stocked with groceries, deli, beer & wine, and beach supplies.
- Beach Comber Bills (360 Front St.) has souvenirs, hats, sun glasses, sandals, etc.
Public Transportation
On weekends during the summer the free Avila Beach Trolley connects Port San Luis, Avila Beach, Shell Beach, and Pismo Beach,
with various other stops along the way.
Avila Beach Trolley
Parking
During peak times in the summer Avila Beach can become crowded and parking difficult to find. The limited number of free parking spaces along the streets near the beach fill quickly with early arrivals. Unfortunately, the public parking lot only a block from the shore has closed.
