History of Pismo Beach

The Pismo clam was named for the long, wide beach where so many were once found. Once so abundant they were harvested with plows on the beach, giving the city the name "Clam Capital of the World," the Pismo clam is now greatly diminished.

The first wharf at Pismo was built in 1882, followed by a full-length pier built in 1924 that was financed and constructed by William Woodrow Ward who allowed full use of it by the public. After it suffered considerable storm damage, the pier was renovated again in 1985.

Pismo State Beach is named for the city of Pismo Beach