About Oceano Dunes Beach:
Oceano Dunes Beach is one of the most popular in the state of California, with towering sand dunes that are very popular with off-roaders. It's also the only beach in the state where you can drive vehicles on the beach.
Oceano Dunes Beach Fees:
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Entrance Fee charged, open for day use 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Creature Comforts at Oceano Dunes Beach: Oceano Dunes Beach has pit and chemical toilets, but little else in the way of amenities.
Oceano Dunes Beach Activities:
- Off-roading in the dunes
- Surf fishing
- Kite surfing
- Bird watching
- Swimming (lifeguards on duty June through Labor Day)
- Horseback riding (bring your own or rent from the stables at Pacific Dunes RV Park.
Lodging Near Oceano Dunes Beach: You can camp on Oceano Dunes Beach or at one of the nearby campgrounds. Or stay in a Pismo Beach hotel.
Highs and Lows at Oceano Dunes Beach:
- This beach is the nesting place for the snowy plover. Some areas are closed from March through October while they're nesting. However, bird watchers may be frustrated by all the ruckus created by the ATVs.
Beachgoer Beware:
- It's easy to get stuck in the sand. Passenger cars should stay on the north end of the beach. If you get stuck, call Steve's Towing at 805-474-6435.
- The surf at Oceano Beach is prone to rip currents, which can drag unwitting swimmers out to sea.
- 9,000 years ago, the Chumash Indians called this place pismu (their word for tar), so don't be surprised if you find some on the beach.
How to Get to Oceano Dunes Beach: Oceano Dunes Beach is just off California Highway One in the town of Oceano. Coming from the north, exit US 101 at Highway One and follow it to the entrance on Pier Avenue. Coming from the south, exit Highway One at Grand Avenue and follow it to the beach.
More San Luis Obispo County Beaches:

