The best hotels in San Luis Obispo

What are the best hotels in San Luis Obispo?

San Luis Obispo is a laid-back Central Coast city set between California’s rolling hills and the Pacific, with independent shops, excellent restaurants and the Edna Valley vineyards just a short drive away. It’s a great spot for wine tasting, coastal walks and leisurely lunches, with everything from charming B&Bs to stylish boutique hotels. Hotel San Luis Obispo is our pick of the bunch, with airy rooms showcasing local artwork, a garden swimming pool, a seriously good spa and two standout restaurants. 

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

The Best Places to Stay in San Luis Obispo

For a Chic B&B

• Garden Street Inn is a pint-sized gem of a property, set in downtown San Luis Obispo. The Victorian B&B's 13 rooms feature charmingly mismatched antique pieces, floral wallpapers and pretty textiles. Unwind in claw-footed tubs, kick back on the terrace or cosy up by a crackling fire. Expect gourmet breakfasts and a quaint, laid-back feel. Especially well-suited to romantic couples.
• San Luis Creek Lodge offers cool, contemporary accommodation spread across three buildings in the city centre. Think natural materials, a soothing colour palette and indulgent bath products perfect for a sophisticated Californian stay. Breakfasts of coffee and pastries set you up for days of discovery, and there are heaps of great eateries in the area. Understated elegance, ideal for couples or families.
• La Lomita Ranch is set among the vineyards of Edna Valley, just three miles from San Luis Obispo. Rooms feature Mexican furnishings, decorative tiles, bronze fixtures and warm timber, with family suites sleeping up to four. Outside, gardens, a firepit and vineyard views set the scene for relaxed evenings after wine tasting.

For Foodies

• Granada Hotel & Bistro has a well-deserved reputation for its fabulous French cuisine and extensive wine list. Housed in a former industrial building dating back to 1929, the hotel's 17 rooms combine exposed brick walls with vintage styling to offer a luxurious base for exploring San Luis Obispo. One for foodies and fans of industrial design.

For a Boutique Base

• A stylish downtown base with a distinctly Californian feel, Hotel San Luis Obispo combines airy rooms, handwoven rugs and original local artwork with resort-style facilities. Cool off in the garden pool, unwind at Sol Spa or head upstairs for rooftop cocktails and bocce. With two excellent restaurants, complimentary bikes and San Luis Obispo’s shops and bars nearby, there’s little reason to leave.

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), and take the bus or a taxi into town.
• 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.

Still not sure?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Pismo Beach,
• Broaden your search to include all the best places to stay in California,
• Or, contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.