California • San Luis Obispo CountyBuoy: 46011

Pismo Beach

Good

Wave Height

4-6

ft

Swell

~10s

S

Wind

9mph

Sideshore (NW)

Water

64°

3/2mm

Falling• Low in 37m

Updated: 9/8/2026, 5:39:08 AM • Data: Open-Meteo

Accurate?

Surf Graph

Clean
Fair
Choppy
Flat

Tide Forecast

Today
H4:26pm4.4ft
L9:31pm2.1ft
Tomorrow
H3:33am6.1ft
L10:32am-0.6ft
H4:56pm4.7ft
L10:21pm1.6ft
Thu, Sep 10
H4:23am6.0ft
L11:08am-0.3ft
H5:25pm5.0ft
L11:09pm1.2ft
Fri, Sep 11
H5:10am5.8ft

Recent History

No recent history available

About Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach is the Central Coast's most consistent surf spot, a long stretch of beach break that picks up swell from every direction. The pier creates sandbars on both sides that focus the wave energy into workable peaks. It's a versatile spot—fun and mellow on small days, surprisingly powerful when the swell gets overhead. The classic California beach town feel, with the pier, clam chowder shops, and monarch butterfly groves, makes it one of the coast's most enjoyable surf destinations.

FAQ

What is the water temperature at Pismo Beach?

The current water temperature at Pismo Beach is 64°F. A 3/2mm wetsuit is recommended.

What is the surf like at Pismo Beach today?

Pismo Beach currently has waves around 4-6ft. Conditions change throughout the day, so check back for updated forecasts.

What time is high tide at Pismo Beach?

Today's high tide at Pismo Beach is at 10:38 PM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What time is low tide at Pismo Beach?

Today's low tide at Pismo Beach is at 5:54 AM ET. Tide times shift daily, so check our forecast for upcoming tide schedules.

What are the best conditions for surfing Pismo Beach?

Pismo Beach works best with swells from the W, WNW, NW, SW and E, NE, N winds (offshore). The ideal tide is all tides.

Is Pismo Beach good for beginners?

Yes, Pismo Beach is suitable for beginners, especially on smaller days. It's always a good idea to check conditions before paddling out and consider taking a lesson if you're new to surfing.

This Week's Outlook

Friday morning is your best bet with 4ft waves, 9 second periods, and lighter winds holding offshore into the afternoon. Saturday could match it but the swell's dropping and winds shift onshore, so Friday's the cleaner call.

Updated 9/8/2026, 6:18:16 AM

Spot Info

Break TypeBeach Break
BottomSand
Skill LevelAll Levels
CrowdModerate
Best TideAll Tides
Best SwellW, WNW, NW, SW
Best WindE, NE, N
ParkingFree and paid parking near Pismo Pier

Local Tip

Works on almost any swell. South of the pier tends to have better shape. Classic California beach town.