Fisherman's Beach

What it is

Fisherman's Beach is a small curved cove on Avila Beach Drive, the closest beach to Port San Luis and Harford Pier. A rocky point separates it from Olde Port Beach, the off-leash dog beach next door. Because dogs aren't allowed here and there are no facilities, it tends to be quieter than its neighbors, especially on weekdays.

From the sand you look out at Harford Pier and the headland toward Point San Luis. Shrubs and wildflowers line the bluff above the beach.

Getting there and parking

Drive west through Avila on Avila Beach Drive toward Port San Luis. After Olde Port Beach, look for the dirt parking area on top of the rocky point at 3979 Avila Beach Drive. From the lot, a dirt path with gentle stairs and a wooden railing leads down to the sand. Parking is free, but plan ahead on sunny weekends. See our parking guide for other options.

What to do

• Swim, bodyboard and sunbathe. Check the surf on our Weather & Conditions page first.
• Launch a kayak or paddleboard. It's an easy hop from here to the harbor and Harford Pier. See Kayak & Paddleboard for rentals.
• Fish. True to the name, people fish from the beach. If you surf fish, you need a California fishing license. The license-free option is the pier next door. See Fishing & Charters.
• Poke around the rocks. The rocky edge has tide pools and spots to sit and watch the water swirl around the boulders. Read our Tide Pools page for how to visit them gently.
• Watch birds. Egrets and shorebirds work the edge of the water.
• Walk toward the harbor. You can stroll along the sand toward the port and the pier.

Rules

Fisherman's Beach follows the Port San Luis Harbor District's beach regulations:

• No dogs, leashed or not.
• No alcohol or glass.
• No fires. Bonfires, campfires and charcoal or wood grills are banned. Small propane grills with an on/off valve are allowed.
• No amplified music or generators.

With no facilities at the beach, pack out what you bring in.