May 22, 2026 - Pismo Dunes reopened this past Thursday.
If you are thinking about coming out - things to keep in mind:
1. Bring a flag and plan where you intend on attaching it to your vehicle.
2. Entry fee is minimal ($5-6).
3. The dunes are inherently precarious and careful navigation is a necessity. Steep drop offs - as much as 60-100 feet are not uncommon - and thus best to travel with another vehicle and have an idea of what is on the other side of any dune that you climb. Don’t get sideways on a dune (keep your vehicle perpendicular to the dune face and modulate speed and use momentum).
4. Air down tires between 13-18 psi BEFORE heading out from the hard sand to the dunes. There are deflators on line for ($20-40). Bring boards with you.
5. Bring head lamp if you intend on being there later in the day.
6. Watch out for intoxicated idiots - more common on weekends.
7. Have a reinflation plan - overtrails are pre-equipped- I keep a second compressor.
8. Keep a tow rope - and remember if you get stuck out there it’s typically $300 - $1000 to get you out, unless a Good Samaritan (who are abundant in the Off roading community) can help you.
9. There are several of us on this forum who are in SLO and SB counties.. SEND us details if coming out - a few of us may come out to join.
10. Salt exposure to your vehicle will be high - so power wash all parts of your vehicle - including undercarriage when you are done.
11. Head on a swivel - some folks out there are inexperienced and not paying attention. Have fun and be safe.
