Pismo Beach has been named one of the best places to live on the coast by Coastal Living Magazine!
Maybe we’re biased, but we definitely think Pismo was a great choice for the number one spot! Our picture-perfect pier headlines the article, setting a high bar for the rest of the selections. The article calls out our appeal as residing in our “generational roots, surf culture, and unfussy coastal charms.” They also mention that Pismo is “deeply engaged in coastal management, sustainability, and climate resilience,” meaning that local efforts have not gone unnoticed!
Here are the other towns listed in the article:
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Known as “The Nation’s Summer Capital,” this beautiful Mid-Atlantic city is a popular destination for D.C. residents.
Grayton Beach, Florida
A picturesque white sand beach with a “trademark salty, hippie vibe.”
South Haven, Michigan
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the lakeside beaches could almost convince you you’re on the ocean.
Friday Harbor, Washington
A classic Pacific Northwest beach set on San Juan Island, featuring pebble beaches alongside evergreen forests.
New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Seventeen miles of coastline make up this stunning white sand beach.
Westerly, Rhode Island
This beautiful beach features grand Victorian mansions, including the one named in Taylor Swift’s “The Last Great American Dynasty.”
Coronado, California
Close to San Diego, this idyllic beach is classic SoCal.
Ocean Springs, Mississippi
This Southern charmer boasts both historic buildings and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Duck, North Carolina
Clustered along a narrow barrier island, this beautiful town is surrounded by ocean for sparkling views everywhere you look.
Personally, Pismo Beach is still clearly the best choice. For the full article, check out the spring 2026 issue of Coastal Living Magazine!
