As a California native, Pismo Beach is just one of those places that’s a part of my childhood. It may not get as much attention as California’s most famous beaches, but stay for a few days and you’ll quickly see why this is a longtime local favorite.
Californians and road trippers flock here year-round to soak in the natural beauty of the area’s beaches, sand dunes, sea caves, and hiking trails. Time your visit right, and you may be able to marvel at thousands of migrating monarch butterflies at the Monarch Butterfly Grove or spot humpback whales passing by from the bluffs.
But one of the best things about taking a trip to Pismo Beach is the hotels themselves. From the truly excellent local hospitality to the oceanfront setting, the hotels are a big reason this coastal town is such a popular destination.
There are so many cool places to stay, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So, I’ve created a list of 10 incredible boutique hotels in Pismo Beach to help you plan your perfect getaway!
- Short on time and don’t want to read the whole article? Here are our top 3 picks!
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Where to Stay in Pismo Beach
The town of Pismo Beach is blissfully small, so no matter where you stay in the area, you’re never too far from the action of downtown Pismo. That being said, it’s no secret that you’ll find many of the best Pismo Beach hotels lining the beach near the historic Pismo Beach Pier.
Not only do these hotels offer stunning ocean views and oceanfront dining, but you’ll be able to walk or bike to your choice of restaurants and shops. You’ll also find a range of luxury inns and boutique resorts perched on the cliffs in nearby Shell Beach and Avila Beach, which are roughly 10 minutes away from downtown.
The 10 Best Boutique Hotels in Pismo Beach, CA
1. Inn at the Pier Pismo Beach
Inn at the Pier Pismo Beach is one of the most popular places to stay in Pismo if you’re looking for a little bit of luxury in the heart of town. You’ll be just steps from the pier and the “Pismo Beach” sign. Plus, this Pismo Beach hotel offers some of the best amenities in town.
One of the most fun features of this beachfront hotel is the rooftop, which boasts a small plunge pool, as well as a new Cal-Italian restaurant and plenty of alfresco lounge areas where you can take in the ocean views. You’ll also find a Lobby Bar downstairs, where you can order craft brews and small plates.
The stylish rooms and suites are all outfitted with midcentury-modern decor, comfy Simmons Hospitality beds with 300-thread-count sheets, Keurig coffee makers, and minifridges. Upgrade to the Fireside Partial Ocean View King, and you’ll get a furnished balcony with a private fire pit overlooking the ocean!
2. The Cliffs Hotel and Spa
You’ll find The Cliffs Hotel and Spa perched on a cliff overlooking the beautiful beach. Not only is the setting gorgeous, but you’ll get all the amenities of a resort at this boutique property – from the heated oceanfront pool and the luxury spa to the 24-hour fitness center. And when hunger strikes, head over to Marisol for traditional coastal fare and alfresco cocktails.
The beach-chic guest rooms here feature Italian marble bathrooms, 42-inch flat-screen TVs, Keurig coffee makers, and beverage coolers. If you’re in town for a romantic retreat, the exclusive Lighthouse Suite will give you panoramic ocean views from the wraparound windows and balcony, as well as extras like a whirlpool soaking tub and “His & Hers” robes and slippers!
3. SeaVenture Beach Hotel
SeaVenture Beach Hotel is another one of the best hotels in Pismo Beach if you’re coming to town for a romantic getaway. The reason this place stands out from the rest is that most guest rooms here feature extras like in-room fireplaces and hot tubs on the private balconies!
Plus, SeaVenture Beach Hotel is located right on the beach and an easy 10-minute walk from the Pismo Pier. Dining out is easy, but if you prefer to eat at the hotel, you’ll love enjoying contemporary coastal meals with an ocean view at the on-site restaurant.
4. Inn at the Cove
Inn at the Cove is the perfect option if you’re just looking for a relaxing weekend away. This place is also very pet-friendly, and your furry friends will be greeted with dog beds and bowls!
Stay here and you’ll get freebies like continental breakfast each morning, Wi-Fi, self-parking, a lending library, an EV charging station, and 24/7 coffee and tea. You’ll also get use of the oceanfront pool and hot tub as well as direct beach access to Shelter Cove.
Other perks include the seasonal Thirstdays in the Garden, featuring complimentary wine and live music, and the OceanFront Yoga classes on Saturday mornings.
And then there are the 52 coastal-chic rooms, which all feature ocean views from your private balcony or terrace, a 37-inch flat-screen TV with a DirecTV receiver and Chromecast, a coffee maker with SLO Roasted Coffee, and Bath & Body Works amenities in the luxury bathroom.
5. Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach
Another oceanfront hotel in downtown Pismo Beach, Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach has everything you need for a relaxing retreat. The classic rooms here all have mid-century style, in-room coffee makers, workstations, and marble ensuites with plush bath robes and GLOSS MODERNE amenities.
You’ll love taking in the ocean views from the outdoor pool, soaking up the California sun from an oceanfront lounger, or stargazing from the hot tub in the evening. After that, enjoy tequila-infused cocktails at Blend Bar or sip poolside drinks at Star Bar before digging into coastal cuisine with an ocean view at Pequín Coastal Cocina.
6. Avila La Fonda Hotel
There’s a good reason Avila La Fonda Hotel is one of the most highly-rated hotels near Pismo Beach – the staff here treat their guests like family with all sorts of complimentary extras. Think in-room snack baskets, breakfast croissants, noon nacho bar and beer, afternoon wine and charcuterie, and nightly pie and ice cream.
Located in Avila Beach, just 10 minutes up the coast from Pismo, this boutique hotel has just 28 luxurious old-world Mexican-style guest rooms, each outfitted with a two-person whirlpool tub, comfy beds with 500-thread-count sheets, and beautifully tiled bathrooms with LATHER amenities and plush bathrobes.
7. SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel
If you’re looking for the best oceanfront Pismo Beach hotels for a relaxing weekend away, SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel might just be the perfect pick. You’ll find this hotel perched on the bluffs less than one mile from Pismo Beach Pier.
The grounds are reason enough to book a stay here. You’ll love relaxing by the oceanfront pool, soaking in one of the three hot tubs, taking in sunset views from the four terraces, and having family BBQs, thanks to the gas grill stations.
And then there are the California coast-inspired rooms, the lawn games, the direct beach access, the seasonal Winesdays with complimentary tastings, the OceanFront Yoga sessions, and the poolside dining from the on-site Blast & Brew American Eatery & Taphouse.
8. Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach
Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach is easily one of the coolest hotels in Pismo Beach. Located right on the sand, just a short stroll from the pier, this is a fun option if you want to be able to walk to all of Pismo’s best bars, restaurants, and attractions.
This boutique hotel features 75 guest rooms, each outfitted with colorful, mid-century furnishings, surf-themed artwork, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and large flat-screen TVs. You’ll also get thoughtful extras like two-hour complimentary bike rentals.
Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach is also home to a popular beachfront bar and bistro offering “Sunrise” and “Sunset” menus, as well as an excellent selection of Central Coast beers on tap. Head up to the third floor, and you’ll find another lovely terrace with fire pits and spectacular ocean views!
9. Shell Beach Inn
Shell Beach Inn is another great option if you prefer more intimate boutique hotels. You’ll find only 10 guest rooms here, each individually decorated with a mix of modern industrial and coastal California decor and outfitted with air conditioning, minifridges, microwaves, and coffee makers. You’ll also get free parking and Wi-Fi.
There’s an outdoor swimming pool on-site. Or, if you prefer the ocean, you’ll be steps away from a stairway that will take you to a lovely beach with tide pools and rock caves. And if you want to check out downtown Pismo Beach, you’re just a 5-minute drive away!
10. Pismo Lighthouse Suites
Pismo Lighthouse Suites is one of the best hotels in Pismo Beach if you’re looking for a “family-focused,” all-suite stay. This pet-friendly hotel features 70 newly-renovated suites, each featuring two full bathrooms with oversized combination shower/tubs, a balcony or patio, and a handy microwave, minifridge, and coffee maker.
You’ll love the complimentary extras like the freshly baked cookies at check-in and the excellent daily breakfasts. You’ll also have access to the heated pool and hot tub, badminton and ping-pong on the Family Play Deck, e-bike rentals, clay oceanfront tennis courts, self-service laundry facilities, and so much more!
