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Oceano Dunes OHV Area: A Coastal Playground

Experience the thrill of off-roading and coastal beauty at Oceano Dunes SVRA, California's unique playground for OHV enthusiasts.

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Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) offers a unique experience on California's Central Coast, where visitors can drive off-highway vehicles (OHVs) directly on the beach and explore expansive sand dunes. This state-managed area near Oceano provides a thrilling blend of coastal beauty and adrenaline-pumping adventure, drawing off-road enthusiasts from across the United States.

A brief summary to Oceano Dunes OHV Area

Local tips

  • Four-wheel drive is strongly recommended for driving on the beach, especially in soft sand areas.
  • Check local tide information, as high tides and Arroyo Grande Creek can restrict access to the OHV and camping areas.
  • Reservations for camping are highly recommended, especially during holidays and summer weekends.
  • Monitor the park's Facebook and Twitter for updates on day-use capacity and any closures.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From San Luis Obispo, head south on US-101 for approximately 15 miles. Take the Grand Avenue exit in Arroyo Grande and follow Grand Avenue west for about 5 miles to reach the beach entry kiosk. Alternatively, take the Pier Avenue exit in Oceano for direct access to the beach and OHV areas. Be aware of beach conditions, such as high tides and sand drifts, which may affect vehicle access. Day use parking fee is $5.

  • Public Transport

    From the Amtrak station in San Luis Obispo, take the SLO Transit Route 24 to the intersection of Highway 1 and Grand Avenue in Grover Beach. From there, it's approximately a 2.5-mile walk west on Grand Avenue to the beach entrance. SLO Transit fares are typically around $2 per ride. Alternatively, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are readily available from the Amtrak station to Oceano Dunes, costing approximately $20-$30.

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Discover more about Oceano Dunes OHV Area

Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) is a thrilling destination on California's Central Coast, offering a rare opportunity to drive off-highway vehicles (OHVs) on sandy beaches and dunes. Located near the town of Oceano, this state-managed area spans approximately 3,500 acres of dynamic coastal landscape. Visitors are drawn to Oceano Dunes for its unique blend of adrenaline-pumping adventure and scenic coastal beauty. Activities include off-roading, camping, swimming, surfing, surf fishing, and hiking. The park is open daily for vehicle day use from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.. Day use passes are sold on a first-come, first-served basis at the beach entry kiosks. Historically, the area was home to the early Chumash people and later, the Dunites, an artist community. Today, Oceano Dunes SVRA is the only California State Park where vehicles can be driven on the beach. However, it's important to note that the California Coastal Commission voted in 2021 to prohibit off-highway vehicle use at Oceano Dunes by 2024. Primitive beach and dune camping are available, but there are no designated campsites. Facilities include vault and chemical toilets. Reservations are required for camping and can be made up to six months in advance. Beach camping is recommended for 4-wheel drive vehicles only.

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