One of the must-see's when visiting Pismo Beach is its wooden pier. The structure is an inviting place to stroll and view the activity on the beach below. Nice wooden planks and neatly painted white railings offer a neighborly look and feeling for those with time to explore.

In the photo a pelican sits on a wooden rail, waiting to catch a bite of scraps from one of the fishermen. In the distance beyond the Pacific Ocean waves you can see several hotels with aqua-green or bright salmon roof tops. Several hotels sit on the beach overlooking the pier. Over half a dozen hotels offer Pismo Beach Pier views, in fact.

Pismo Beach Pier is 1,370 feet long, and is around the 16th longest ocean pier in California, serving as the icon and tourist draw. Surrounding it are beach hotels and the pier is the anchor to downtown shopping along Pomeroy Street, where you'll find some great eateries such as The Splash Cafe. There is also an arcade and rentals of bicycles, beach umbrellas, and other items you may need to make your day more fun.

A snack shop on the pier serves popcorn, sodas, candy, peanuts, souvenirs and fishing bait. Like all California public piers, you can fish for free here.

Special events include Pumpkins on the Pier and for Christmas, there's an artificial holiday tree. Public restrooms, periscopes to peer into the distance and maybe catch a glimpse of a migrating whale, and plenty of wooden benches and some picnic tables offer opportunities for dining, people watching, wave watching and simply relaxing.

The fact that Pismo Beach Pier never closes provides insight into why this is truly Classic California. In Southern California the piers are closed during some of the prime fishing hours, but the Central California Coast city recognizes the need for serious sports recreation. Shark fishing at night is one example, and a time honored tradition. Sand sharks, leopard sharks, dog sharks and bat rays put up quite a fight and provide a real challenge for those who want to REALLY hone their skills. Be sure to stop by the plexi-covered board with the photos of recent local catch.

Directions: From the south on Highway 101, take Pismo Beach -Price Street exit, follow it to Pomeroy; turn west and follow it to the pier. From the north, take Hwy. 101 to the Five Cities Dr. exit; follow Dolliver into the middle of town, then turn west on Pomeroy and follow it to the pier and parking lot.