2 SLO County beaches named ‘most stunning’ on the West Coast. Which ones?
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Sunset Magazine named Avila Beach and Pismo Beach top West Coast beach picks.
- Avila Beach earned praise for its sunny microclimate, views and local activities.
- Pismo Beach stood out for surfing, hiking and scenic coastal dunes in 2025 awards.
San Luis Obispo County boasts some of the most stunning beaches on the West Coast, according to Sunset magazine.
The publication recented ranked Avila Beach and Pismo Beach among the most beautiful beaches in California as part of its 2025 Sunset Travel Awards.
“From the coast to the mountains to the desert and beyond, the West is where travelers can live life to the fullest,” Sunset said, with awards given to “the most transporting experiences in this beautiful place we call home.”
Here’s who made the list:
What makes SLO County beaches most beautifulin California?
Sunset said it singled out Pismo Beach and Avila Beach due to their year-round sunshine, gorgeous views and ample outdoor activities that range from relaxing to adventurous.
The magazine highlighted Avila Beach’s pleasant microclimate and “adorable” shops where visitors have opportunities to shop and go wine tasting.
More daring vacationers can rent kayaks or hop on a whale-watching excursion, Sunset said.
“Avila Beach is a tucked-away-in-the-hillside hidden paradise,” Sunset said. “It’s the perfect retreat with seaside sunshine under gorgeous rolling green hills, offering the ultimate landscape for relaxation.”
In February, Avila Beach was named the No. 1 beach in the nation by vacation rental company HomeToGo.
Why Pismo Beach is a ‘stunning’ destination
According to Sunset, Pismo Beach nabbed the coveted travel award based on its beautiful coastal views and wide variety of things to do, including wandering through rolling dunes and lush scenery.
“Outdoor enthusiasts can surf near the Pismo Pier, dig for Pismo clams, kayak through Dinosaur Caves or hike the scenic trails of the Pismo Preserve,” the magazine said.
It’s the second time the coastal city has received accolades from a major publication in 2025.
Pismo Beach earned a second-place ranking on USA Today’s list of the best beaches in California, published in May.
“Being named one of the West’s best beaches by Sunset magazine is an honor,” Gordon Jackson, director of tourism and events for the Pismo Beach Conference and Visitors Bureau, said in a news release. “It reflects the heart of our community, the warmth of our locals and the breathtaking experiences that make Pismo Beach a destination people return to again and again.”
Where are best beaches on the West Coast?
In total, Sunset magazine recognized five California destinations as the Golden State’s “most beautiful beaches.”
Here’s which ones:
- Avila Beach
- Carlsbad
- Montecito
- Pismo Beach
- Ventura County coast
How did Sunset Magazine choose winners?
After receiving hundreds of submissions, a panel of Sunset Magazine editors picked where to go, what to do, where to stay and where to eat and drink on the West Coast.
In 2025, the magazine said, it expanded its list to 200 winners “in response to the sheer volume of standout entries.”
The full list of winners is available at sunset.com/travel/travel-directory.
