Category: Five Cities

Local Landscape Photography by Michael Ambrose

This winter, on our way to Yosemite, my family stayed at the world-renowned Tenaya Lodge. On a side note — this grand hotel in our own backyard is so well-known they welcome guests from all over the world — and will be the subject of a future blog post so stay-tuned. Anyhow, Tenaya Lodge has…

SLO COUNTY RESTAURANT MONTH

CALLING ALL FOODIES! Sound the alarm! There are just two weeks left to take advantage of SLO County’s “Restaurant Month!” This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a three-course fixed menu at many participating restaurants around the county for the low, low price of $30 per person! Plus, many restaurants also offer a wine pairing…

Realtor of the Year 2019

Shannon Bowdey of Pismo Beach Homes. Shannon Bowdey, Senior Real Estate Salesperson with the Pismo Beach Homes, was awarded our Association’s highest honor earlier this month – Realtor of the Year. Shannon has been a consistent top producer, a willing mentor, and a role model for new agents, attending weekly Association meetings, actively participating in…

Grab a Coffee at Kraken

The central coast has gained another Kraken Coffee and it is just what Pismo Beach needed! Comfortable seating and freshly roasted coffee with the bonus of ocean views gave me a refreshing start to my morning. If you need a little bit more sustenance to start your day, then they offer up delicious handmade breakfast…

Cape Cod Eatery & Taphouse

Shell Beach has a brand-new restaurant you won’t want to miss — Cape Cod Eatery, located at 1127 Shell Beach Road, recently opened it’s doors and has instantly become a new hot spot!  The Cape Cod Eatery & Taphouse gets its name from the building where it makes its home — previously “The Cape Cod…

It’s Time to Trot!

Thanksgiving is a time for family, for reflection, and for over-indulgence in most cases – so what better way to kick off the day then a bit of a calorie-burn that also gives back to a great cause? There are two Turkey Trot opportunities in SLO County – both benefit the Food Bank in memory…

Quality Coffee at Quintessa

Drive down Highway One in Oceano and you will find the sweetest little coffee shop around.  It is my local fav!  A big change from the branded chain coffee shops, filled with advertisements, and step into Quintessa. This lovely roasting house has a warm inviting environment where you are greeted by a friendly barista, ready…

Something for Everyone at Windmill Farms

Tucked away on the corner of Hwy 101 and Thompson Road at the most southern end of Arroyo Grande, is a sweet little local gem called Windmill Farms. This place has so much to offer, there is literally a little something for everyone.  With a beautiful gift shop inside, you can find locally made delicacies…

Ada’s Fish House – Coastal Cuisine in a Casual Setting

If you live in or have visited Pismo Beach then you have been to Rosa’s Ristorante Italiano. This cornerstone of the city restaurant scene has been at the southern entrance of Pismo for 30 years. Chef Doug MacMillan’s parents opened the restaurant – a homage to his mother, Rosa, who was born in Bonito, Italy.…

Winning with Race Rugrats!

Sarah Hawkins is the founder and owner of Race Rugrats, a childcare company dedicated to caring for and entertaining children during various races not only locally but around the State. I interviewed Sarah and asked her some questions to learn more about this amazing company and what they are all about! What is Race Rugrats?…

32nd Annual Rotary Summer Sizzle

32nd Annual SUMMER SIZZLE When: 12pm – 4pm August 17, 2019 Where: Thousand Hills Ranch, 550 Thousand Hills Rd, Pismo Beach More Information: Please Email or Call/text Michael Boyer – (805) 471-7954 The event of the year! Buy your Summer Sizzle Tickets Now: Number of Summer Sizzle Tickets 1 $125.00 USD2 $250.00 USD3 $375.00 USD This year, the Rotary…

Shin’s Poke Pismo Beach

As I type my mouth is already watering and it’s barely past breakfast! While Poke has been a staple of the local diet in Hawaii, it has slowly made its way across the Pacific and hit our shores hard – so much so that you can find it in the supermarket! But not all Poke…

Enjoy the Strawberry Festival in Arroyo Grande

Memorial weekend is coming, and with it some sweet, juicy strawberries! Arroyo Grande’s 36th annual strawberry festival is here again and the event schedule sounds as delicious and entertaining as ever! If you have never been to this event that happens every year in the quaint little village of Arroyo Grande you are in for…

Fabulous Las Vegas at the Clark Center

Hopefully you have had an opportunity to see a performance at the Clark Center for the Performing Arts in Arroyo Grande. If you haven’t, you might be surprised to learn that we have a state-of-the-art performing arts center right here, in the heart of South San Luis Obispo County. The Clark Center is a non-profit organization dedicated…

Puffers of Pismo

There is a sweet little spot, just blocks to the beach in Downtown Pismo Beach called Puffers of Pismo. From the moment you walk through the door, you are welcomed by friendly staff, warm tones in the décor and delicious aromas from the kitchen.  Make sure to belly up to the bar and introduce yourself…

Tapas by La Bodega

New to the restaurant lineup in Pismo Beach this year is La Bodega, specializing in shareable Tapas plates.  An inviting environment of warm colors, luscious aromas, beautiful wines and delicious farm to table fresh food.  Located in a lovely building that offers soaring ceilings and plenty of natural light.  There is a small outdoor patio…

Food Bank Turkey Trot

Thanksgiving morning has always meant seasoning the Bird while watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade – and possibly enjoying an early eggnog while looking forward to a day of non-stop gluttony … I see nothing wrong with that! Several years ago our family decided that we could cancel out some of our day-long feast calories…

Bewley’s Window Cleaning

What have we all learned is the most important element of preparing your home for market – mentioned time and time again on pervasive HGTV-style shows? Curb appeal, curb appeal, curb appeal. A large element of that is window washing and pressure washing – and when done well it can add so much to the…

Trunk or Treat

Presented by Rotary Club of Pismo Beach/Five Cities Calling all ghosts, goblins, princesses, and monsters of all sizes and shapes – start your Halloween early this Friday, October 26 at the third annual Trunk or Treat put on by the Rotary Club of Grover Beach in collaboration with Grover Beach Parks and Recreation Department. This…

Pismo Beach Clam Festival

Like any small town, we can be measured by our Parades and Festivals. As Pismo Beach has long been the self-proclaimed “clam capitol of the world” it seems only fitting that our Fall Festival have the theme of all things Clam.  Over the years it has grown from a small parade and clam digging contest…

Bean’s Roofing & Rain Gutters

http://beansroofing.com/ (805) 534-0888 As we all know, home ownership means not always getting to spend money on the fun projects, but sometimes having to do upgrades and improvements that are practical. When it came time for our 1987 custom-built home to have a new roof, new skylights and remove the fluorescent lightboxes in favor of…

Giuseppe’s Cucina Italiana – Pismo Beach

It was with much anticipation and delight that we celebrated Giuseppe’s original Pismo Beach Location’s re-opening this past Spring. When fire ravaged the popular downtown restaurant we all wondered if they would return. But we were encouraged by Chef Giuseppe DiFronzo’s promises that they would be back! http://giusepperustica.wixsite.com/pismogiuseppes In the meantime, he opened a new…

Willow Pismo Beach

Looking for a fun place with an excellent view in Pismo Beach?  Look no further than Pismo’s newest hotspot at Willow located at 2131 Price St.  This building used to be the old Marie Calendars right in front of the Sea Crest Hotel.  The new owners have done a complete remodel that is so inviting…

Pismo’s Indian Summer

Pismo Beach has always been a great place to vacation for Summer, but what a lot of people do not know is that it has a secret summer! Pismo Beach has become known for its Indian Summers: we tend to experience our warmest and best climate in September and even October.  With average high temps…

Win a YETI Cooler in our 2018 Photo Contest

MAY THE BEST PHOTO WIN! Pismo Beach Homes’ Coozie Photo Contest Whether you’re around the globe or just around the corner this summer, keep your drinks cool with our snazzy Pismo Beach Homes’ coozie and make sure to take a selfie with you and your COOZIE. Win a YETI Cooler photo with our coozie!! BE…

16th Annual Rotary Golf Classic

On Monday, May 7, 2018, the Rotary Club of Pismo Beach-Five Cities Charitable Foundation will be hosting their 16th Annual Rotary Golf Classic at the beautiful San Luis Obispo Country Club.  This is such a fun filled, day-long event that stretches into the evening.  Starting off at 11am with a shotgun, this full day event…

The Poke Craze Has Come to Town!

Poke is a sushi-grade seafood dish that has long been a favorite in Hawaii and is having a surge of popularity here on the mainland. Here on the Central Coast, where we have access to high-quality, fresh seafood, it’s a given that this trendy meal has finally arrived!  Poke is a great appetizer, lunch or…

An Evening of Art at Keller Williams in Pismo Beach

Are you a lover of art like we are? Keller Williams is happy to announce their 13th annual Spring Fling Art Party, Thursday March 22nd from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. This year features 20 local artisans of varying talents from oil paintings, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and more. The most wonderful thing about this event is, not…

Elephant Seals of San Simeon

Elephant Seals of San Simeon Winter months are an exciting time at one of the Central Coast’s most outstanding State Parks, Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery. Located just 5 miles north of Hearst Castle State Historical Monument in San Simeon. The viewing areas are open 365 days a year, are wheelchair accessible and free to all…

Inn at the Pier – Resort at the end of the Pismo Beach Pier

Pismo Beach has a new place to brag about that you don’t want to miss.  The new Inn at the Pier is located at 601 Cypress Street, Pismo Beach.  This gorgeous 104 guest room boutique hotel has an inviting entrance with friendly employees greeting you upon arrival.  The lobby features tall ceiling which flood natural…

My Furry Valentine

I love dogs, I love cats, don’t get me started, I love all animals.  No joke, I turn into a blubbering fool every time I see a furry angel no matter where I am. Add on my baby voice and disregard how silly I sound, I simply can’t help myself.  It’s a problem, I admit, but…

Kemmi Lee joins Pismo Beach Homes

PISMO BEACH, CA (December 1, 2017) Pismo Beach Homes, Inc. announces that Kemmi Lee has joined their Team. Ms. Lee will be a Buyers Agent on the team providing her exceptional service to buyers in San Luis Obispo and northern Santa Barbara Counties. “Kemmi’s professional background and her proven success in launching and building successful…

Gordon Construction: Quality Craftsmanship – Exceptional Results

As a Realtor, finding a service provider who I trust to refer to clients is like striking gold. I hold them to a higher standard than even someone I would hire to work on my own home. You see, that service provider isn’t just representing their company when I refer them. They are also representing…

Virtjuice in Arroyo Grande: Locally grown, Tastefully healthy.

Locally grown juice and healthy foods business in Arroyo Grande.Be prepared! Virtjuice in Arroyo Grande is not your every-day, mass-produced Juicing experience. When you visit you may meet up with “Rico Suave” hanging out by the “Matcha Machine” talking about his “Indian Summer.” Just kidding!  Those are really names of just three of the many…

Express Trash Hauling & Dump Truck Service

Eddie Hernandez is truly one of those old-school gems. He is responsive, accommodating and affordable. Refreshing! When he says he is going to meet you he’s on time! His pricing usually beats your best guess and his crew is fast and friendly. 805.354.9111 trash.express@yahoo.com We have used Eddie for junk removal, power-washing, grading and yard…

Ocean Grill Avila Beach

Avila Beach has always been a family favorite. While Pismo is the obvious choice for visitors, Avila stays a bit more quiet and feels a bit more like a small town. It also has the best weather on the Central Coast, often remaining sunny and warm when fog is still hovering over the other beaches.…

Farmers Markets: Offering Local Fare and Fun!

  Growing up on the Central Coast one of my favorite things to do was to go to the local farmers markets. Where else can you sample cuisine from multiple local restaurants, listen to a variety of local musicians, and get your grocery shopping done all in one place? Make it a family or friend’s…

Giuseppe’s Cucina

  Giuseppe’s Cucina in Pismo Beach began as a Cal Poly Senior Project hatched by Giuseppe (Joe) DiFronzo. He took what was a simple assignment and turned it into a bustling restaurant with customers gladly lining up to wait an hour or more for dinner and everyone hosting their corporate and family events in his…

MONARCH BUTTERFLY GROVE, PISMO BEACH

  There are so many wonderful things to enjoy around Pismo Beach — and so many are free to the public. Not the least of which is the Monarch Butterfly Grove on the border of Grover and Pismo Beach — have you ever been?  The Grove is really easy to get to — right off…

CHERRY LANE NURSERY

Just outside the Village of Arroyo Grande lies a quaint little nursery that I love to visit all year round called Cherry Lane. It feels like home — and that is in large part because it is a family-owned and operated business where you can relax and enjoy your shopping experience. All the plants, trees,…

Arroyo Grande Meat Company

The quaint Village of Arroyo Grande is well-known for the many little businesses that dot Branch Street and its off-shoots. There is one business in particular that my family holds near and dear to our hearts — the Arroyo Grande Meat Company owned by Henry & Julie Gonzalez.  We frequent this business many times throughout…

Pismo Beach Pumpkins on the Pier!

Halloween is going to be tricky this year – literally. For parents of young children who still enjoy dressing up and trick-or-treating, the fact that this year’s spook-fest falls on a Monday is no laughing matter! While many of you will still trot your ghouls and goblins around on the actual holiday, it will be…

FrutiLand El Casa del Sabor – The best flavors from Mexico City.

Having lived here my entire life, I can tell you that driving down Grand Avenue with one of my long-time friends can be a walk down memory lane. And sometimes old memories die hard. That place was such-in-such and that was an empty lot, etc. etc. We tend to refer to businesses by names they…

Country Copy

Looking for a great printer service person from Nipomo to Paso Robles? I just used Country Copy – Office Machine Service & Sales. Gideon Gal came to my office just one day after I called him, he was on time for the appointment and repaired my HP Laser printer on the spot, quickly and efficiently…

St. Patrick School Raffle – 5 Chances to Win $500

1 Free Raffle Ticket for Every 9 Purchased! Support Jack Boyer & St. Patrick School with Raffle Ticket(s) – Please use the pull-down to choose how many tickets you’d like. 10 Tickets (1 free) $45.00 USD20 Tickets (2 free) $90.00 USD30 Tickets (3 free) $135.00 USD40 Tickets (4 free) $180.00 USD50 Tickets (5 free) $225.00…