The second annual Pismo Beach Sand Art Festival takes place November 7–9, 2026, turning the beach into an open-air gallery of massive, intricate sand murals. Eleven artists from around the world will bring their work to the sand this year, building detailed installations you can watch take shape over the weekend.

The temporary nature of it all is part of the appeal, since every piece washes away with the king tides each evening, making the weekend a one-time chance to see them. It's a relaxed, family-friendly way to spend a fall day on the coast.