01
Best overall pick
Pismo Beach and Pier
Pismo Beach • Lively Central Coast Surf Town • Best All-Around Day Trip
A classic Central Coast beach with a long pier, walkable downtown, and plenty to do between sets of waves.
From Benton Park, Pismo is often the go-to first stop when you just want sand, surf, and an easygoing beach town vibe. The wide, flat beach works for everything from sandcastle duty to sunset strolls, and the pier gives you big-sky Pacific views without getting your feet wet. When the marine layer burns off, you can wander into town for clam chowder, casual taco spots, or a quick coffee before heading back over the mountains.
02
Best for families
Avila Beach
Avila Beach • Sunny, Compact Family Beach • Best For Calm Water And Kids
A sheltered cove with gentler waves, a small boardwalk, and an easy-to-manage layout that suits families and relaxed travelers.
Avila sits tucked into a south-facing pocket of the coast, which often means warmer sun and softer swell than the more exposed beaches nearby. The small promenade keeps everything close at hand—playground, ice cream, bathrooms, and the sand are all just steps apart. It’s a good choice if you’re making the drive from Benton Park with younger kids or anyone who prefers lounging and wading to serious wave action.
03
Best for scenery
Morro Rock Beach
Morro Bay • Scenic, Wind-Swept Shoreline • Best For Dramatic Views
A broad beach framed by the towering Morro Rock, with a wilder feel and plenty of room to spread out.
If you’re willing to drive a bit farther from Benton Park, Morro Rock Beach rewards you with one of the most recognizable silhouettes on the Central Coast. The sand stretches for what feels like miles, and the combination of surf, seabirds, and foggy mornings gives it a more rugged, coastal-road-trip mood. It’s ideal for long walks, photography, and cool-weather beach days when you care more about atmosphere than sunbathing.
04
Best for biking and long walks
San Buenaventura State Beach
Ventura • Classic Socal Strand With A Long Path • Best For Cruising The Coast
A wide sandy beach linked by bike and walking paths, with easy access to Ventura’s mellow seaside neighborhoods.
Once you crest the mountains and drop toward the Ventura coastline, this beach is one of the most convenient spots to park, unload, and get straight to the water. The long paved path makes it easy to bike, skate, or stroll for miles, connecting into the pier and nearby parks. For Benton Park locals who want a mix of beach time and a bit of movement, this area strikes a nice balance between relaxed and active.
05
Most iconic outing
Santa Monica State Beach
Santa Monica • Iconic La Beachfront With A Busy Pier • Best For People-Watching And Nightlife
A famous stretch of sand where classic pier rides, wide bike paths, and a busy city backdrop all collide.
Santa Monica is more of a full-on outing than a quick beach fix, but it delivers the big-screen version of Southern California many visitors imagine. After the drive from Benton Park, you step into a world of lifeguard towers, volleyball courts, street performers, and an endless flow of cyclists and joggers along the path. Spend the late afternoon on the sand, then wander up into downtown for dinner before tackling the return trip inland.