About Pismo Beach

What are the best hotels in Pismo Beach?

Pismo Beach sits halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, with a long sandy shore, famous pier, crashing surf and glorious Pacific sunsets making it a classic stop on a California road trip. Beyond the beach, you’ll find wineries, dune adventures, horse riding and the seasonal Monarch Butterfly Grove. Our pick of the bunch is Vespera on Ocean, which has the best beachfront setting, stylish coastal interiors, an ocean-view pool and hot tub, fire pits, balconies and a lively restaurant and bar.

Scroll down the page for our full selection of recommended hotels in Pismo Beach or, for a look at different areas, read our guide to the best places to stay in California.

The Best Places to Stay in Pismo Beach

For a charming inn

  • Cottage Inn by the Sea promises cosy, English countryside-inspired rooms facing the sea or looking out over lovely gardens. Stay here for the friendly feel of a welcoming inn, the big cosy beds and the atmospheric fire pits with panoramic views of the pier and the Pacific at sunset. Families are welcome!

For a family-friendly resort

  • Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa is a brilliant beachfront escape with stylish suites — including 2-bedroom options for families or groups — a large swimming pool, a soothing spa and direct access to the Pacific Ocean. With heaps of activities and a striking location on 5 acres of grounds, this is a fun family pick!

For beach access

  • Right on Pismo Beach, Vespera on Ocean channels the feel of a classic California beach house, with nautical-toned rooms, oversized bathrooms and sweeping Pacific views. There’s an ocean-view pool and hot tub, fire pits, a gym and the Somerset Grill, plus balconies overlooking the beach.

For an Apartment or Holiday Cottage

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly into San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), just 15 minutes by car or an hour by bus from Pismo Beach. Alternatively, travel to Santa Maria Airport, around an hour away.
  • California is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching 30°C and above in July and August. For slightly cooler weather, come during the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October), when you can also expect fewer crowds!

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The best hotels in Pismo Beach

Cottage Inn by The Sea

Pismo Beach (California)

An English inspired countryside Inn situated right on Pismo Beach. Rooms are spacious and warm with fireplaces and breathtaking views overlooking the Pacific ocean. On a scorching hot day make use of the pool and beach. Well located just 10 minutes from downtown Pismo's shops and restaurants.

  • Local exploring - Only a ten-minute walk to pier and downtown- perfect for discovering the area of Pismo
  • Beach Life - Located on Pismo beach, with a private staircase leading down to the sands
  • Great walks - Explore Montana de Oro State Park which has stunning trails
  • Surfing - There are great surfing spots nearby to the hotel
from $166 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Vespera on Ocean

Pismo Beach

Glam ocean-front resort with direct beach access. Designed in the style of a classic Cali beach house, contemporary-chic rooms feature fresh nautical palette, over-sized bathrooms and panoramic views. Enjoy varied activities, outdoor pool, lawn and sea-view dining. Laid-back California living.

  • Active Holiday - The area offers endless activities from mountain biking and hiking to riding, golf, boogie boarding, beach volleyball & kayaking
  • Total relaxation - There's plenty to do but it's also a great spot to do very little; swim, sunbathe, enjoy beach walks, fresh air and great food
  • Beach Life - It's just steps to 60-acre sandy Pismo beach for swimming and surfing, as well as walks along the pier
  • Surfing - There's surfing, kayaking, paddle-boarding and kayaking available just metres from the hotel
from $280 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa

Pismo Beach

A fantastic beach resort made up of well-equipped bedroom apartments; expect large kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms, washing facilities and sea-view balconies. Elegant decoration is a Californian take on Mediterranean style. Family-friendly with fun guaranteed.

  • Beach Life - A sea-facing infinity pool, cliff-top location and walking distance to local Shell Beach make this a dream beach break
  • Families - The spacious and well-planned apartments and endless local activities make this a perfect destination for families
  • Active Holiday - Enjoy sport-fishing, paddle-boarding, kayak tours, riding a dune buggy, ziplining and more
  • Wine tasting - The hotel can arrange complimentary tastings at San Luis Obispo County wineries, as well as packing a picnic for you to enjoy
from $621 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees