Best places to stay near pismo beach

On average, 3-star hotels in Pismo Beach cost S$ 77 per night, and 4-star hotels in Pismo Beach are S$ 62 per night. If you're looking for something really special, a 5-star hotel in Pismo Beach can on average be found for S$ 0 per night (based on Booking.com prices).

Atop ocean bluffs and within a charming downtown district filled with the smell of seafood, hotels in Pismo Beach add great memories to a California coastal vacation. Encompassing an ideal central coast location in the postcard-worthy San Luis Obispo County, halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Pismo Beach shines with oceanfront hotels. From resorts and spas to kid-friendly suites that provide parents with extra comfort, the best hotels in Pismo Beach also include great views of the ocean.

Alongside the oceanfront hotels that offer intimate sunsets, other great romantic hotels in Pismo Beach are farther north along the coast, near the Shell Beach neighborhood and the adjacent community of Avila Beach. Next to bluff-side public places like Dinosaur Caves and Spyglass Parks, hotels in this part of Pismo Beach also come with quite the view. Ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, Pismo Beach is a popular stop on many honeymoon vacations.

Family-friendly hotels are also spread throughout downtown Pismo Beach. As well as offering spacious accommodations, these family favorite hotels also cater to beach vacations, with quick access to the ocean.

Great for budget travel, affordable hotels in Pismo Beach are more inland from the ocean and feature low overnight rates and accommodations that are far from cheap when it comes to the quality of a stay.

On This Page:

  • Best Oceanfront Hotels in Pismo Beach
  • Best Hotels for Couples in Pismo Beach
  • Best Hotels for Families in Pismo Beach
  • Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Pismo Beach

Best Oceanfront Hotels in Pismo Beach

1. Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa

Accommodation: Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa

For a fully indulgent coastal vacation, this four-star oceanfront hotel in Pismo Beach delivers with decadent one- and two-bedroom suites, some with full views of the ocean. Alongside a private balcony or patio, each suite at Dolphin Bay Resort features full kitchens and separate living and dining rooms.

The outdoor heated infinity pool at the hotel is a popular place to relax between beach escapades.

Other on-site amenities at this beach resort include Lido at Dolphin Bay, which features seaside fine dining and fresh seafood. The Spa at Dolphin Bay offers other avenues of relaxation, including a long list of services like massage and facials.

To access the bountiful attractions of Pismo Beach, Dolphin Bay Resort and Spa also offers complimentary bike cruisers.

2. Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, Autograph Collection

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, Autograph Collection

Accommodation: Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, Autograph Collection

Right on the water by the Pismo Beach Pier and also within walking distance from downtown, the Vespera Resort offers easy access to everything this town has to offer. The rooms and suites are beach-house chic with a modern ambience. They are quite spacious and come in a number of configurations. The least expensive don't have sea views, but are a good deal if you want the amenities and access of a beachfront hotel.

If you want to see the ocean from a furnished private patio or balcony, book one of the oceanfront rooms with oversized bathrooms. Some even have seating areas. The suites add separate living space, and many also come with full kitchens along with sea views. If you are traveling with a pet, there are dog-friendly rooms available.

Grab a bite to eat at the house restaurant, which serves elevated comfort fare and has indoor and outdoor seating with more ocean views. There are plenty of other dining options within a short stroll on the boardwalk or in downtown Pismo beach. The property also features a swimming pool and hot tub surrounded by sun loungers and umbrellas, a fitness center, and concierge services.

3. Inn at the Pier

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Inn at the Pier

Accommodation: Inn at the Pier

A boutique oceanfront hotel located just steps from the Pismo Beach Pier, this four-star hotel features coastal craftsmanship and luxurious style. Most of the 104 rooms and suites at the Inn at the Pier include ocean views, and all overnight spaces feature private balconies, in-room espresso machines, and modern furniture that is flush with comfort.

As comfortable as the rooms are, the rooftop is the real space to relax at the Inn. Hosting a heated dipping pool and spa, the Rooftop at the Inn also features a lounge underneath aesthetic lighting. Offering one of the best views in Pismo Beach, the Rooftop features a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding coastline and city.

Other on-site dining at the hotel includes breakfast, dinner, and dessert offerings from Blonde Restaurant. When it comes time to explore Pismo Beach, complimentary bikes at the hotel makes it easy to cruise around town.

4. SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

Accommodation: SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

On a sprawling five acres atop an ocean bluff, this pet-friendly oceanfront hotel features direct access to the beach. Alongside modern and spacious guest rooms and suites, the two outdoor terraces and abundance of manicured green space at the hotel make this a family favorite and relaxing place to enjoy a vacation.

Alongside barbecue stations and shaded lounge areas with fire pits, the outdoor terrace at SeaCreast also includes a kidney-shaped pool surrounded by three hot tubs.

All 158 rooms and suites at the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel feature a clean, crisp, and modern design that imbues a sense of coastal comfort.

On-site dining includes fresh seafood at the Willow Kitchen just steps from the hotel, and with its central location, the SeaCrest is also near many local restaurants that can feed the whole family or host a special dinner date. Complimentary breakfast at the hotel consists of fresh fruit; hard-boiled eggs; and a rotating selection of pastries, toast, and waffles.

5. Pismo Lighthouse Suites

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Pismo Lighthouse Suites

Accommodation: Pismo Lighthouse Suites

A great oceanfront hotel for family vacations, Pismo Lighthouse Suites features fun amenities, including a Pirate Play Deck, giant chess, and rentable board games. A favorite for parents, too, the hotel exclusively features suites, including family suites and master suites. All suites include a private balcony or patio, some with views of the coastline.

Parents also tend to enjoy the lack of resort fees at this oceanfront hotel, and everyone in the family enjoys the complimentary breakfast each morning. Further indulgence comes from the in-room spa services offered at Pismo Lighthouse Suites, with treatments including warm beach stone massage and body scrubs.

Steps away from the ocean, the hotel is also located near numerous local restaurants that easily match the appetite of the whole family.

6. SeaVenture Beach Hotel

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: SeaVenture Beach Hotel

Accommodation: SeaVenture Beach Hotel

An oceanfront hotel oozing with comfort, the SeaVenture Beach Hotel sits right on the sand and lends to a fully catered beach vacation. The guest rooms at SeaVenture feature a light and breezy coastal decor, and each room comes equipped with a private balcony hot tub that really maximizes the sunset views. Unique along the Pismo Beach coast, the SeaVenture Beach Hotel also offers a luxurious beach house rental with front door access to the beach.

The SeaVenture Restaurant on the third floor of the hotel is a popular place to eat for guests of the hotel and members of the public alike. Featuring an abundance of big windows and amazing vistas of the ocean, the SeaVenture Restaurant offers a fresh California coastal menu with seasonal seafood options.

The on-site Massage Center at the hotel also offers indulgence in the form of Swedish, deep tissue, and aromatherapy massage.

Best Hotels for Couples in Pismo Beach

1. Kon Tiki Inn

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Kon Tiki Inn

Accommodation: Kon Tiki Inn

Well regarded as one of the best hotels in Pismo Beach, this ocean bluff accommodation provides quite the setting for a romantic vacation. Alongside modern one- and two-bed rooms with inviting coastal decor, each overnight space at the Kon Tiki Inn features panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean with private balconies or patios.

The outdoor green space and pool area at the Kon Tiki Inn is also a great spot to enjoy the sunset with someone special.

Centrally located close to downtown for easy date nights, the Kon Tiki Inn also features the on-site and ocean-facing Flagship Restaurant for casual coastal fare and a fun place to socialize.

Stairs from the hotel's property lead directly down to the beach, and guests often enjoy the sound of the ocean as they sleep.

For couples that like to keep an exercise routine, guests at the hotel receive complimentary passes to the next-door Pismo Beach Athletic Club.

2. The Inn at the Cove

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: The Inn at the Cove

Accommodation: The Inn at the Cove

Atop a secluded bluff overlooking the dramatic features of Dinosaur Caves Park, this romantic hotel features stylish guest rooms with views of the ocean. Alongside private balconies and patios, the rooms at The Inn at the Cove feature stylish and modern furniture that makes it easy to relax, including luxury linens that encourage extra time spent in bed.

For extra fun in the sun at this dog-friendly hotel, the outdoor pool and Jacuzzi area is lined with beach chairs and umbrellas.

3. Shore Cliff Hotel

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Shore Cliff Hotel

Accommodation: Shore Cliff Hotel

An oceanfront oasis perched atop a tall coastal bluff, Shore Cliff Hotel sets the mood for a romantic occasion with its views alone. The stunning outdoor gazebo area is only the beginning of the coastal appeal at Shore Cliff Hotel, and each room and suite at this romantic hotel includes a private patio or balcony with panoramic views of the ocean.

Other special amenities at this oceanfront hotel include a next-door rooftop restaurant, in-room spa services, and regularly scheduled oceanfront yoga.

4. Spyglass Inn

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Spyglass Inn

Accommodation: Spyglass Inn

Atop a manicured ocean bluff near Spyglass Park, this ocean-facing hotel features light and breezy guest rooms and suites, with views of the ocean. For a romantic feel at the Spyglass Inn, some rooms feature mood-setting features like in-room fireplaces and private patios to enjoy the sunset.

The on-site Spyglass Restaurant also caters to romantic experiences with fine-dining fare in a casual, ocean-view environment, as do the fire pits and outdoor plaza separating the hotel and the steep cliffs of the ocean.

5. Cottage Inn by the Sea

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Cottage Inn by the Sea

Accommodation: Cottage Inn by the Sea

Reminiscent of English countryside cottages, this cozy and quiet oceanfront hotel also has great views of the dramatic coastline. All 80 modern rooms at the Cottage Inn by the Sea offer a view of either the ocean or the elaborate gardens on-site, and with big windows and plush bathrobes available, time spent in the room is part of the romantic experience.

For a great place to watch the sunset with someone special, the hotel features fire pits and a manicured bluff top to enjoy the view.

Best Hotels for Families in Pismo Beach

1. Oxford Suites Pismo Beach

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Oxford Suites Pismo Beach

Accommodation: Oxford Suites Pismo Beach

Less than a mile inland from the ocean, this suite-exclusive hotel caters to family vacations with spacious rooms at an affordable rate. Alongside bountiful natural light and comfortable decor, all overnight spaces at the Oxford Suites feature kitchenettes and additional living rooms.

A family vacation is further enhanced at the Oxford Suites with the outdoor pool deck complete with a kid-friendly wading pool and plenty of lounge areas.

The free, hot breakfast at Oxford Suites appeals to all appetites of the family, and the on-site eatery is popular with parents, especially during the complimentary evening reception that occurs every Monday through Saturday at the hotel.

A pet-friendly hotel, the Oxford Suites welcomes dogs for a small additional fee. For families looking to stay awhile, the hotel also offers discounts for extended stays.

2. Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach

Accommodation: Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach

Featuring rooms and suites that overlook the ocean, this family favorite hotel in Pismo Beach provides upscale beachfront accommodations for a budget-friendly price. It's great for spreading vacation money further.

Families at the Sandcastle Hotel don't have to travel very far from the hotel to enjoy a Pismo Beach vacation. It's minutes from the beach, and on-site amenities of the hotel include the family-friendly The Deck, with fire pits, lounge chairs, and a relaxing vibe.

3. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: The Cliffs Hotel and Spa

Accommodation: The Cliffs Hotel and Spa

A family-friendly resort overlooking the ocean, The Cliffs Hotel caters to the comforts of every member of the family. Parents and kids both find something to like in the signature suites and classic rooms of The Cliffs Hotel, many with views of the ocean, as well as the outdoor heated pool surrounded by deck chairs.

Board games at the hotel are also popular with the whole family, and the fresh-baked cookies upon check-in are a nice touch for anyone with a sweet tooth.

4. Hilton Garden Inn Pismo Beach

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Hilton Garden Inn Pismo Beach

Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Pismo Beach

Near the Pismo Prime Outlets and less than a mile from the beach, this family hotel features a central location to explore the surrounding San Luis Obispo County. Highchairs and cribs are available at this family-friendly hotel, as well as casual breakfast and dinner fare at the on-site Garden Grille restaurant.

The outdoor heated pool at the Hilton Garden Inn is a popular place to unwind at the end of the day, and with insulated walls and blackout curtains, a good night's rest is nearly guaranteed.

5. Dolphin Cove Motel

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Dolphin Cove Motel

Accommodation: Dolphin Cove Motel

With an affordable rate to stretch the family vacation budget further, the Dolphin Cove Motel features family-friendly oceanfront rooms for quite the value. With rooms on two floors of the motel ranging from single queens to seawall kitchen suites, the Dolphin Cove Motel has space for all family sizes.

The hotel offers direct beach access from the front door of any room, and other fun attractions surrounding this well-reputed motel include the shops, restaurants, and entertainment of downtown Pismo Beach and the Pismo Beach Pier.

Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Pismo Beach

1. Ocean Palms Motel

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Ocean Palms Motel

Accommodation: Ocean Palms Motel

A half-mile walk to the Pismo Beach Pier, this affordable and reputable motel features one of the best overnight rates in the city. Guests at the Ocean Palms Motel can stay in Pismo Beach for cheap without sacrificing quality of service, or a well-kept outdoor pool.

Recently remodeled, the rooms at the Ocean Palms Motel feature modern decor and comfortable linens, as well as free Wi-Fi and cable television.

2. Motel 6 Pismo Beach

Best places to stay near pismo beach
Photo Source: Motel 6 Pismo Beach

Accommodation: Motel 6 Pismo Beach

On Main Street in Pismo Beach, this Motel 6 has a great reputation as a clean and affordable place to stay next to the beach. Lauded for a friendly and attentive front desk staff, this Motel 6 has a great location that adds to its significant value. A five-minute walk to the Pismo Beach Pier, this Motel 6 offers efficient and modern rooms with the scent of the ocean.

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Is Pismo Beach worth visiting?

It's a truly beautiful place and there's no better haven for lovers of the ocean than this. Great food and wine, stunning parks and beaches, and relaxing water attractions make up much of the local scene. Pismo Beach sits in San Luis Obispo County.

Is Avila Beach better than Pismo Beach?

Avila tends to be sunnier and warmer (especially in summer months) and the drive through a wooded area to get there is lovely. Pismo, however, has more options for accommodations. If you love being able to walk a long stretch of white sand beach, go to Pismo. If you are a real sunlover, go to Avila.