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Port San Luis Pier: A Historic and Working Harbor

Experience a working harbor with fresh seafood, stunning views, and a touch of history at Port San Luis Pier in Avila Beach, California.

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Port San Luis Pier, also known as Harford Pier, is a historic landmark in Avila Beach, California, offering a unique blend of commercial fishing operations and visitor experiences. It's one of the last drivable piers in the United States, providing access to fresh seafood, restaurants, and scenic views.

A brief summary to Port San Luis Pier

  • 3975 Avila Beach Dr, San Luis Obispo, California, 93405, US
  • +1805-595-5400
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Drive or walk to the end of the pier for the best views and to visit the fish market and restaurants.
  • Fishing is permitted on the pier without a fishing license.
  • Keep an eye out for whales during migration season and for sea lions.
  • Be aware that the pier is a working harbor, so expect commercial activity.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Avila Beach, continue west on Avila Beach Drive for approximately 1.5 miles. The road dead-ends at Port San Luis Harbor. Parking is available in the Port San Luis Harbor parking lot. Paid parking is enforced in 14 public parking spaces on Harford Pier between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm, with a 2-hour limit for $3, or 30 minutes for $0.75. Additional paid parking is available in 36 of the 250 spaces in Harford Landing for $3 for 2 hours.

  • Public Transport

    The Avila-Pismo Beach Trolley offers free service from Pismo Beach Premium Outlets to Port San Luis, with stops at various locations in Avila Beach. Check the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority (RTA) website for the trolley schedule and route.

  • Walking

    From the Avila Beach Promenade, follow Avila Beach Drive west towards Port San Luis. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and takes around 30 minutes. Enjoy the scenic views of the coastline along the way.

Unlock the Best of Port San Luis Pier

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Discover more about Port San Luis Pier

Port San Luis Pier, or Harford Pier, stands as a testament to California's rich maritime history. Built in 1873 by John Harford, it initially served as a crucial link for exporting goods from San Luis Obispo County. The pier was connected to a railroad, facilitating the transport of goods and passengers. In its early days, the pier even featured a hotel, the Ocean Hotel (later the Marre Hotel), for travelers awaiting ships. In the early 20th century, Port San Luis became the largest crude oil shipping port in the world. Union Oil Company constructed pipelines and facilities, transforming the harbor into a major hub for oil exports. While that activity has ceased, the pier remains a working harbor, where commercial fishing boats offload their daily catch. Today, visitors can drive or walk along the 1,320-foot pier, immersing themselves in the sights and sounds of a working harbor. Observe fishermen hauling in their catch, purchase fresh seafood from the market, or dine at one of the restaurants. Fishing is also allowed off the pier without a license. The pier provides excellent views of the bay, offering opportunities for whale watching during migration seasons and spotting sea lions. Do remember that Port San Luis is a commercial wharf and that can mean crates, equipment, trucks, etc., sometimes blocking access to spots.

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