Oceano Dunes SVRA sits just three miles south of Pismo Beach and spans 5.5 miles of sandy shoreline where you can actually drive your vehicle right on the beach—something you won’t find at most California coastal parks. Dogs are welcome on-leash, so your dog gets to experience the sand, waves, and endless open space while you’re exploring.

The park divides into distinct zones depending on what you want to do. The northern section near the beach entrance is accessible to regular passenger vehicles, which is where most people go for a casual beach drive with their dog. If you have four-wheel drive and want to venture deeper into the dunes and camping areas, you can head south. The contrast is striking—you’ll see everything from families wading in the shallow water to off-road enthusiasts tackling the dunes in the distance.

Beyond driving on the beach, there’s plenty to do with your dog in tow. Surfing and swimming happen in designated areas, and the shoreline supports horseback riding if you’re interested in that experience. The mixed habitat—beach, dunes, and grassland—means decent birdwatching opportunities too. A fair number of dogs get excited by the seabirds, so keep that in mind.

The park does have camping, though pet policies can vary by accommodation type, so contact them directly if you’re planning to stay overnight. For anyone with mobility considerations, beach wheelchairs are available to borrow at the Pier and Grand Avenue entrances, which makes accessing the shoreline much easier.

The main thing to understand about Oceano Dunes is that it’s actively used for off-highway recreation, so it’s not a quiet or secluded beach experience. You’ll hear engines and see vehicles moving across the sand throughout your visit. If that doesn’t bother you and your dog, the openness and sheer amount of beach to explore makes it a solid option for a day trip or longer stay. Just come with realistic expectations about the environment and keep your dog on-leash as required.