Central Coast Aquarium: Discover Marine Wonders
Explore the Central Coast's marine life at this interactive aquarium in Avila Beach, offering hands-on exhibits and educational programs.
The Central Coast Aquarium in Avila Beach offers an engaging and educational experience focused on the marine life of the Central Coast. With interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and opportunities to view local species up close, it's a great destination for families and marine enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Central Coast Aquarium
- 50 San Juan St, Avila Beach, California, 93424, US
- +1805-457-5357
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during summer, to find convenient parking and avoid crowds.
- Check the aquarium's website for the most up-to-date schedule of feeding times and special events.
- Take advantage of the free Avila Beach Trolley to avoid parking hassles, especially during peak season.
- Combine your visit with a picnic at nearby Avila Beach Park for a full day of fun.
Getting There
-
Walking
From Avila Beach Promenade, walk south along Front Street, then turn left onto San Juan Street. The aquarium will be on your right, a short walk from the beach. This is a pleasant stroll with views of the ocean and Avila Beach Pier.
-
Public Transport
The Avila Beach Free Trolley provides service from various points in Avila Beach, Shell Beach and Pismo Beach. Check the trolley schedule and route to find the nearest stop to your location and the aquarium. The trolley is free, making it a convenient option to avoid parking fees.
-
Driving
From Highway 101, take the Avila Beach Drive exit and follow the road into Avila Beach. Turn left onto San Luis Street, then right onto San Juan Street. The aquarium will be on your right. Note that parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Free street parking is available, but a paid public lot on 1st Street costs $8 per day.
Discover more about Central Coast Aquarium
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pismo Beach, California
4.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Pismo Beach, California, a perfect destination for relaxation and adventure by the sea.
Shell Beach Brew House
6.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of craft brews and coastal ambiance at Shell Beach Brew House, a must-visit brewpub in Pismo Beach, California.
City of Pismo Beach Building Division
6.6 km
Discover the workings of Pismo Beach at the City Building Division, where local governance meets coastal charm and community development.
Kon Tiki Inn
9.0 km
Unwind at Kon Tiki Inn in Pismo Beach, where oceanfront views, comfortable accommodations, and local adventures await every traveler.
Honeymoon cafe
9.5 km
Discover the charm of Honeymoon Cafe in Pismo Beach, a cozy cafe known for its delicious breakfast and warm coastal ambiance, perfect for tourists.
Pismo Shore Estates Association
9.5 km
Experience Pismo Beach's unique coastal charm at Pismo Shore Estates Association, a community hub offering stunning views and local culture.
Old West Cinnamon Rolls
9.5 km
Experience the iconic Old West Cinnamon Rolls in Pismo Beach, where oversized cinnamon rolls and delightful baked goods await your taste buds.
Tastes of the Valleys
9.5 km
Explore the essence of California's wine culture at Tastes of the Valleys in Pismo Beach, a perfect blend of relaxation and flavor.
Keith Duggan's Ink Dynasty
9.6 km
Experience the art of self-expression at Ink Dynasty, Pismo Beach's premier tattoo shop, where every design tells your unique story.
Hotlix Candy Store
9.6 km
Explore the whimsical world of sweets at Hotlix Candy Store, where traditional flavors meet quirky creations in Pismo Beach, California.
Sans Liege Wines
9.6 km
Experience the artistry of winemaking at Sans Liege Wines in Pismo Beach, where each sip tells a story of passion and creativity.
Cool Cat Cafe
9.6 km
Discover the vibrant Cool Cat Cafe in Pismo Beach, where delicious hamburgers meet a casual and inviting atmosphere for all food lovers.
Pismo Bowl
9.6 km
Discover the ultimate bowling experience at Pismo Bowl, featuring a classic diner and exciting arcade games in Pismo Beach.
Pismo Beach Farmers Market
9.7 km
Explore fresh produce and local crafts at the lively Pismo Beach Farmers Market, a true taste of California's central coast culture.
Puffer's of Pismo
9.7 km
Discover Puffer's of Pismo, a charming wine bar in Pismo Beach offering exquisite wines and live music for an unforgettable coastal experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Avila Beach Park
0.0 km
Discover Avila Beach Park: a family-friendly coastal escape with sandy shores, playgrounds, and vibrant wildlife in beautiful Avila Beach, California.
Smugglers Cave
1.9 km
Explore Smugglers Cave, a stunning coastal attraction in San Luis Obispo, California, where nature's beauty meets adventurous history.
Pirate's Cove Beach
2.0 km
Discover Pirate's Cove Beach: Secluded beauty, stunning views, and a tranquil escape on California's Central Coast.
Port San Luis Pier
2.1 km
Experience a working harbor with fresh seafood, stunning views, and a touch of history at Port San Luis Pier in Avila Beach, California.
Point San Luis Lighthouse
3.1 km
Explore the historic Point San Luis Lighthouse in Avila Beach, a captivating landmark with stunning ocean views and rich maritime heritage.
South Palisades Park
3.9 km
Experience the serene coastal beauty and diverse marine life at South Palisades Park, an essential destination for nature lovers in Pismo Beach.
Ebb Tide Park
4.3 km
Discover tranquility at Ebb Tide Park in Pismo Beach: ocean views, picnic spots, and a serene coastal escape.
South Palisades Park South Staircase
4.3 km
Discover breathtaking ocean views, explore vibrant tide pools, and enjoy a tranquil coastal escape at South Palisades Park in Pismo Beach.
Spyglass Park
5.0 km
Discover breathtaking ocean views, tide pools, and family fun at Spyglass Park in Pismo Beach. A perfect coastal escape!
Spyglass Beach Tide Pools
5.1 km
Discover a vibrant underwater world at Pismo Beach's Spyglass Beach Tide Pools, a perfect blend of natural beauty and family-friendly fun.
Memory Park
5.3 km
Discover stunning ocean views and vibrant tide pools at Memory Park, a peaceful retreat in Shell Beach, Pismo Beach.
Eldwayen Ocean Park
6.1 km
Discover Eldwayen Ocean Park in Pismo Beach: scenic trails, beach access, tide pools, and stunning views for relaxation and adventure.
Chapman Estate
6.4 km
Explore the tranquil gardens and stunning ocean views of Chapman Estate, a historic gem in Shell Beach, California, perfect for nature lovers.
Shell Beach Coastal Conservancy Preserve
6.7 km
Discover stunning ocean views, diverse wildlife, and peaceful trails at this Pismo Beach coastal haven. A perfect escape for nature lovers.
Margo Dodd Park
6.9 km
Discover stunning ocean views and a peaceful retreat at Margo Dodd Park in Pismo Beach, a tribute to local environmentalist Margo Dodd.
Essential places to dine
Marisol at The Cliffs
4.5 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Marisol at The Cliffs in Pismo Beach.
Lido Restaurant & Lounge
4.5 km
Experience fine dining at Lido Restaurant & Lounge in Pismo Beach, where gourmet seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.
Mei's | Chinese Restaurant
6.1 km
Experience the essence of authentic Chinese cuisine at Mei's Restaurant in Shell Beach - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Cape Cod Eatery & Taphouse
6.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Cape Cod Eatery & Taphouse in Shell Beach - where fresh ingredients meet craft beer and brunch delights.
Zorro's Cafe & Cantina
6.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Zorro's Cafe & Cantina in Shell Beach—where every meal is a celebration!
F. McLintocks Saloon and Dining House
6.7 km
Experience premium steak dining at F. McLintocks Saloon in Shell Beach - where flavor meets coastal charm.
The Green Olive Pismo Beach
6.8 km
Discover authentic Mediterranean flavors at The Green Olive Pismo Beach, where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality in a beautiful coastal setting.
Ventana Grill
8.2 km
Experience exceptional grilled cuisine and stunning ocean views at Ventana Grill in Pismo Beach – your perfect culinary escape.
Blast & Brew American Eatery and Tap House
8.7 km
Experience delightful dining at Blast & Brew American Eatery - your go-to destination for great food and craft beers in Pismo Beach.
Vista Steak and Seafood
9.1 km
Experience exquisite dining with stunning ocean views at Vista Steak and Seafood in Pismo Beach.
Oasis Restaurant & Catering Moroccan / Mediterranean Cuisine and Seafood
9.2 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Morocco and the Mediterranean at Oasis Restaurant & Catering in Pismo Beach.
Del's Pizzeria
9.4 km
Experience the best pizza and authentic Italian cuisine at Del's Pizzeria in Pismo Beach—where flavor meets tradition.
Papi's Grill
9.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Papi's Grill in Pismo Beach - a culinary gem offering vibrant flavors and warm hospitality.
Penny's All American Cafe
9.4 km
Discover delicious breakfasts at Penny's All American Cafe in Pismo Beach - where classic flavors meet cozy vibes.
Oyster Loft
9.6 km
Discover culinary excellence at Oyster Loft, where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views in Pismo Beach.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Beach Love Boutique
6.3 km
Experience the coastal charm at Beach Love Boutique, where beach-inspired fashion meets unique style in the heart of Pismo Beach.
Village pottery
6.8 km
Explore the vibrant world of handcrafted ceramics at Village Pottery, where local artistry meets unique shopping in Shell Beach, California.
Point Break LLC
9.6 km
Explore Point Break LLC in Pismo Beach for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of California's coastal charm.
Board Walk Plaza
9.6 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Board Walk Plaza in Pismo Beach, where coastal charm meets trendy fashion in a picturesque setting.
Wildflower Women Boutique
9.6 km
Explore the charm of Wildflower Women Boutique - your go-to destination for unique women's clothing and accessories in Pismo Beach.
The Bling Boutique
9.6 km
Discover the charm of The Bling Boutique in Pismo Beach, a premier women's clothing store offering stylish apparel and unique accessories for every occasion.
Beach West
9.6 km
Discover Beach West, a unique souvenir store in Pismo Beach offering a delightful selection of local gifts and beach-themed memorabilia.
Pier Gifts
9.6 km
Discover a delightful array of souvenirs, clothing, and unique finds at Pier Gifts in Pismo Beach, where coastal charm meets unforgettable shopping.
West Coast Attítude
9.6 km
Discover the ultimate shopping destination in Pismo Beach, featuring trendy clothing and accessories that embody the coastal California spirit.
Drift Boutique
9.6 km
Explore Drift Boutique in Pismo Beach for unique women's fashion that perfectly captures the California lifestyle and charm.
Pismo Beach Candy Co.
9.6 km
Explore a world of sweets at Pismo Beach Candy Co., where every candy lover finds their bliss with a variety of treats and delightful confections.
Dynasty Gems
9.6 km
Explore Dynasty Gems, a unique gift shop in Pismo Beach, offering handcrafted jewelry and one-of-a-kind treasures for memorable souvenirs.
Beach Bum
9.6 km
Explore Beach Bum, the charming souvenir store in Pismo Beach, offering unique treasures and local artisan crafts to commemorate your coastal adventure.
Souvenirs
9.7 km
Explore the charming gift shop in Downtown Pismo Beach for unique souvenirs that capture the coastal spirit of California.
Desa's
9.7 km
Explore the charming Desa's Gift Shop in Pismo Beach for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and stylish clothing that capture the essence of California coastal culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Break
9.5 km
Discover The Break in Pismo Beach, a vibrant grill offering delicious food, refreshing cocktails, and an energetic atmosphere for an unforgettable coastal dining experience.
Cali Love Wine - Pismo Beach
9.6 km
Experience vibrant wine culture at Cali Love Wine in Pismo Beach - perfect for wine lovers and karaoke enthusiasts alike!
Harry's Night Club & Beach Bar
9.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Harry's Night Club & Beach Bar in Pismo Beach, where live music, dancing, and refreshing drinks await.
Micheladas
9.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Micheladas in Pismo Beach, where refreshing drinks and a lively ambiance await.
The Rooftop
9.7 km
Discover the ultimate lounge experience at The Rooftop in Pismo Beach, where stunning ocean views and exquisite dining await all tourists.
HotShots Billiards & Family Entertainment
9.7 km
Discover a lively bar and entertainment hub in Pismo Beach, where delicious American cuisine meets fun-filled games for all ages.
The Boardroom Beer Pub
9.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse craft beer selection at The Boardroom Beer Pub in Pismo Beach, a must-visit for sports fans and foodies.
La Aroma De Havana Cigar Bar & Lounge
9.8 km
Discover the ultimate cigar experience at La Aroma De Havana Cigar Bar & Lounge in Pismo Beach, where fine cigars meet exceptional wines and craft beers.
