But the Pismo Beach Inn is only one chapter in the vibrant history book of Pismo Beach.

Pismo Beach was originally part of the 8838 acre Rancho Pismo owned by Jose Ortega in the 1880s. One of its owners, a gentleman named Isaac Sparks, is said to have won the land from Ortega in a game of monte. John Price, a robust Englishman, who fought in the Mexican-American War, later acquired this land from Sparks and built the first hotel called the Pismo Beach Hotel.

The original Pismo Wharf opened for business in 1881. If you look closely during low tide, you can still see remnants of the pilings on the shore off of Main Street. Designed for commercial purposes, the Pismo Wharf became a key port for the South County, and received lumber and other goods. The Meherin brothers of Arroyo Grande began building the first Pismo Pier (not the one viewable today). For the most part, D.J. Meherin designed, constructed and maintained it. The original Pismo Pier was still active in until 1890, when it collapsed due to heavy storm. The new pier that replaced the original was built in 1924 and was much longer than it is today.

The pier endured severe damage through the years, and one major storm tore up the south side of the sea wall and about 500 feet off the end of the pier shortly after its construction. It was never rebuilt. A 1983 storm washed away most of the wharf, and it was subsequently rebuilt to its present state in 1985-86.

The Pismo Beach Pier remains a landmark of Pismo Beach and the entire San Luis Obispo County, attracting tourists and locals year round.

It wasn't too long until people from all over the world discovered the priceless beauty of Pismo Beach. There was such a high demand for accommodations that a "Tent City" was created to cater to the overflow of tourists. During this time, Pismo Beach became filled with large, 18' x 14' tents that could be rented for $8 a week. "Tent City" surged in popularity during the first couple decades of the 20th century, and endured into the late 1920's.

During the Tent City years, the Southern Pacific Railroad brought scores of visitors to this little piece of heaven. Later, Hwy 2, later known as Highway 101, was routed through Pismo Beach, giving automobile travelers an easy route to the beach.

Locals and tourists alike cannot get enough of Pismo's small town charm and spectacular views. This fascination never seems to fade, and is demonstrative in the 1000s of new and returning visitors that meander through this sandy nirvana.

However, if it wasn't for the pioneers of this town, we would still be a dusty ranch by the sea. To honor these movers 'n shakers, we have dedicated each of our suites to one of these influential individuals, as shown below: