Hotels in Shell Beach, Pismo Beach

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Our top choices for Shell Beach hotels

Shell Beach Inn

Shell Beach Inn
2.0 star property
Shell Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (501 reviews)
"Great place to stay"
United States
David
The price is CA $223
CA $255 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 7 - Jun 8
Shell Beach Inn

The Palomar Inn

The Palomar Inn
2.0 star property
Shell Beach
7.4 out of 10, Good, (615 reviews)
"Lovely location. Nice bathroom but the mattress is horrible I could feel the springs in some spots"
United States
Michelle
The price is CA $106
CA $121 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 8 - Jun 9
The Palomar Inn

Madonna Inn

Madonna Inn
3.5 star property
12.5 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,486 reviews)
"Great place!! Unique decor and spacious rooms. Would definitely visit again!"
United States
Crystal
The price is CA $195
CA $268 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 7 - Jun 8
Madonna Inn

Blue Sail Inn

Blue Sail Inn
2.5 star property
28.6 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Great place to stay"
United States
Francisco
The price is CA $182
CA $209 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 7 - Jun 8
Blue Sail Inn

Residence Inn by Marriott San Luis Obispo

Residence Inn by Marriott San Luis Obispo
3.0 star property
11.4 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (143 reviews)
"Very clean , amazing staff 💕"
United States
Zindia
The price is CA $290
CA $330 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 7 - Jun 8
Residence Inn by Marriott San Luis Obispo

Spyglass Inn

Spyglass Inn
3.0 star property
1.7 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,592 reviews)
"A beautiful inn, with wonderful sights, good breakfasts, staff is perfect and he rooms are comfortable. This place is great for a week long get-away!"
United States
Michelle
The price is CA $302
CA $347 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 9 - Jun 10
Spyglass Inn

Dune Surfer Inn

Dune Surfer Inn
2.0 star property
7 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (232 reviews)
"The staff was very helpful and welcoming. The rooms and service was excellent."
United States
Shaneka
The price is CA $149
CA $168 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 9 - Jun 10
Dune Surfer Inn

Homewood Suites by Hilton Santa Maria

Homewood Suites by Hilton Santa Maria
3.0 star property
29.3 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (143 reviews)
"The room was nice and quiet clean. The breakfast are very good better than most breakfasts at hotels."
United States
NATALIE
The price is CA $215
CA $242 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 25 - Jun 26
Homewood Suites by Hilton Santa Maria

Inn At Morro Bay

Inn At Morro Bay
3.5 star property
26 km from Shell Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,008 reviews)
"This is our favorite place to stay in the area. We love the staff and location."
United States
Alice, John and Kathryn
The price is CA $189
CA $216 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 9 - Jun 10
Inn At Morro Bay

The Q Inn

The Q Inn
2.0 star property
28.8 km from Shell Beach
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (27 reviews)
"Great new contemporary hotel, helpful staff. Clean room with everything we needed. Would definitely stay again."
United States
Ruth
The price is CA $263
CA $302 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 5 - Jun 6
The Q Inn

Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Maria

Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Maria
2.5 star property
29.1 km from Shell Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,004 reviews)
"Easy check in..clean room, easy access, free breakfast!"
United States
Yolanda
The price is CA $190
CA $215 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 21 - Jun 22
Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Maria

Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach

Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach
3.5 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3.4 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,654 reviews)
"Very nice stay with ocean view."
United States
Carl
The price is CA $355
CA $407 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 10 - Jun 11
Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach

Best Western Casa Grande Inn

Best Western Casa Grande Inn
2.5 star property
6.6 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,367 reviews)
"Everything is a nice place to stay"
United States
EVANGELINA
The price is CA $172
CA $196 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 8 - Jun 9
Best Western Casa Grande Inn

Avila Village Inn

Avila Village Inn
3.5 star property
5.9 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"Very nice place , quiet, clean and nice stuff."
United States
Magally
The price is CA $276
CA $358 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 7 - Jun 8
Avila Village Inn

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo
3.5 star property
11.6 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,332 reviews)
"Room was clean, staff was very helpful and friendly."
United States
Phu
The price is CA $254
CA $289 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 18 - Jun 19
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo

Inn at the Cove

Inn at the Cove
3.5 star property
1.1 km from Shell Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,699 reviews)
"Nice place."
United States
Anthony
The price is CA $414
CA $475 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 9 - Jun 10
Inn at the Cove

Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo

Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo
2.5 star property
13.3 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,254 reviews)
"Nice hotel convenient to downtown"
United States
Rickey
The price is CA $127
CA $145 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 22 - Jun 23
Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo

Aloha Inn

Aloha Inn
2.0 star property
8.4 km from Shell Beach
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"Good location and Good price."
United States
Steven
The price is CA $78
CA $110 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 9 - Jun 10
Aloha Inn

Oxford Suites Pismo Beach

Oxford Suites Pismo Beach
2.5 star property
855634304, 5.2 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,901 reviews)
"Comfortable bed and good breakfast! Very nice property in a great location."
United States
Anita
The price is CA $161
CA $200 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 28 - Jun 29
Oxford Suites Pismo Beach

Hotel Avanti

Hotel Avanti
2.5 star property
30.3 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (369 reviews)
"Average hotel for the money "
United States
John
The price is CA $124
CA $140 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 9 - Jun 10
Hotel Avanti
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Where to stay in Shell Beach

Find the best Shell Beach areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Shell Beach
Learn more about Shell Beach

Downtown Pismo Beach

While visiting Downtown Pismo Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Pismo State Beach and Pismo Beach Surf Shop.

Pismo Heights

While Pismo Heights isn't home to many top sights, Price Anniversary House and Pismo Beach Surf Shop are some notable places to visit nearby.

855634304

If you're spending some time in 855634304, Pismo Beach Premium Outlets and Pismo Lake Ecological Reserve are top sights worth seeing.

Sunset Palisades

While Sunset Palisades might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Avila Hot Springs and The Spa at Dolphin Bay.

Pacific Estates

Though Pacific Estates might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Pismo Beach Premium Outlets and Monarch Butterfly Grove.

Top Shell Beach Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Shell Beach

Top reasons to visit Shell Beach

  • Stunning Beaches: Shell Beach features beautiful coastlines perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and scenic walks.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy various outdoor activities including surfing, hiking, and exploring nature preserves.
  • Wine Tastings: Indulge in delightful wine tastings at local wineries, enhancing your culinary experience.
  • Charming Downtown: Explore quaint shops and eateries while soaking in breathtaking seaside views.
  • Relaxing Accommodations: Choose from cozy inns and motels that provide comfort and easy beach access.

Find great hotels near Shell Beach

Discover the charm of Shell Beach, where a variety of accommodations await you, from cozy motels to inviting inns. Ideal for beach lovers and families alike, these hotels offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you choose the Shell Beach Inn or the Shell Beach Motel, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere and convenient access to the stunning shoreline that makes this destination so special.

  • Oxford Suites Pismo Beach: A budget-friendly motel with a guest rating of 9.0, Oxford Suites Pismo Beach is perfect for families, adventurers, and business travellers alike. Located 4.8km from Shell Beach, this property offers a variety of adventure sports options nearby, including sailing, mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, and scooter rentals. The hotel is equipped with amenities for children, including a first aid kit, making it a convenient choice for families looking to explore the great outdoors while enjoying a comfortable stay.
  • SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel: With a 3.5-star rating and a guest rating of 9.2, SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel is an ideal beach getaway located just 1.6km from Shell Beach. This hotel boasts direct access to the beach and offers a range of adventure activities, such as kayaking, hiking, surfing, windsurfing, and sailing. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities, including a pool designed for children. The hotel’s beachfront location and family-oriented services create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for all guests.
  • Edgewater Inn And Suites: Edgewater Inn And Suites is a budget-friendly motel featuring a guest rating of 8.6, situated 3.2km from Shell Beach. This property offers a unique hot spring theme, complete with direct beach access and natural hot springs nearby. Ideal for those seeking a beach vacation experience with a twist, the hotel provides a soothing escape with its hot spring amenities. Guests can enjoy the coastal environment while indulging in the relaxing benefits of natural hot springs, making it a distinctive choice for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Where to stay near Shell Beach

Shell Beach offers a delightful blend of seaside charm and outdoor adventure, perfect for family-friendly vacations or romantic getaways. Explore the vibrant downtown, where you’ll find quaint shops and eateries, all while enjoying stunning seaside views. Just a short drive away, you can discover the scenic beauty and relaxing atmosphere of nearby Pismo Beach, ensuring a memorable experience filled with excursions and natural splendor.

  • Pismo Beach: Nestled along the beautiful central coast of California, Pismo Beach is a vibrant city that encompasses the charming Shell Beach. Known for its stunning seaside vistas and outdoor adventures, Pismo Beach attracts visitors year-round, with peak times in the spring and summer months. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in activities such as beachcombing, surfing, and exploring the scenic jetty pier. The city also offers a range of spas and recreational areas for relaxation and rejuvenation. With its inviting atmosphere and family-friendly beaches, Pismo Beach is perfect for those seeking scenic beauty and adventure.
  • Avila Beach: Located a mere 6.4km from Shell Beach, Avila Beach is a delightful coastal city renowned for its picturesque beachfront and relaxed vibe. Similar to Pismo Beach, Avila Beach experiences seasonal tourist peaks during the vibrant spring and summer months. Visitors flock here for its stunning outdoor scenery, with opportunities for golfing and indulging in local spas. The beach is ideal for families and offers a charming pier for leisurely strolls. Avila Beach embodies the quintessential California beach experience, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.
  • Downtown Pismo Beach: Just 3.2km from Shell Beach, Downtown Pismo Beach is a lively neighbourhood that showcases the essence of coastal living. Unlike the more seasonal nature of its surrounding areas, Downtown Pismo Beach sees steady visitor traffic, particularly in the summer. The vibrant atmosphere draws tourists for its diverse outdoor activities, including golf and educational experiences. With local landmarks like the beach and jetty pier nearby, visitors can enjoy a blend of relaxation and excitement. Whether you're dining by the ocean or exploring local shops, Downtown Pismo Beach is a hub of activity and charm.

Things to do in Shell Beach

Shell Beach is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a beach getaway with stunning scenery. Popular activities include visiting surf shops, enjoying sunset views, and spending weekends by the beach. You can also indulge in spa and body treatments, explore recreational areas, and partake in delightful wine tastings. For a more vibrant experience, check out local beach clubs that enhance your vacation with social and leisure activities.

Shopping

In Shell Beach, you can enjoy unique shops along the coast, perfect for finding gifts and souvenirs. Nearby, Pismo Beach offers the Pismo Beach Premium Outlets, featuring a variety of brand-name stores, and the charming Downtown Pismo Beach, where you’ll discover local boutiques and artisanal shops.

Recreation

Experience serenity at the Shell Beach Spa with rejuvenating treatments and tranquil ocean views. For outdoor relaxation, stroll along the scenic boardwalk, or enjoy yoga sessions on the beach, embracing the calming sounds of the waves while connecting with nature.

Adventure

At Shell Beach, explore tide pools teeming with marine life and enjoy kayaking along the stunning coastline. For the adventurous, try surfing the Pacific waves or embark on a scenic hike through the nearby coastal trails, offering breathtaking views and encounters with local wildlife.

Nightlife

Explore the lively nightlife in Shell Beach by visiting the Shell Beach Tavern for a casual atmosphere and tasty pub fare. For a more laid-back vibe, check out the nearby Spyglass Inn, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views and refreshing cocktails as you unwind by the coast.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shell Beach

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Shell Beach are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Shell Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Shell Beach is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Shell Beach hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Shell Beach

Shell Beach, California, is perfect for those seeking an outdoor beach vacation filled with stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches like Pismo Beach and Chesterman Beach, along with local attractions such as urban parks and nature preserves. Whether you're looking for a cultural experience or a family-friendly getaway, Shell Beach offers a variety of activities that cater to all types of travellers.

  • Pismo Beach Pier: This scenic jetty, located 3.2km from Shell Beach, offers family-friendly excursions and a welcoming atmosphere. Stroll along the pier, enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean, and watch local fishermen at work.
  • Avila Hot Springs: Just 3.2km away, Avila Hot Springs provides a perfect outdoor retreat for wellness and relaxation. Soak in the natural hot springs surrounded by lush greenery and take in the soothing sounds of nature.
  • Pismo State Beach: Also located 3.2km from Shell Beach, this stunning beach is ideal for sunbathing, beachcombing, and enjoying the vibrant ocean vibes. It’s a great spot for a leisurely day by the sea.

Best time to go to Shell Beach

The best time to visit Shell Beach is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
March54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April56.8°F (13.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
May59.5°F (15.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June63.7°F (17.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July66.2°F (19.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August66.9°F (19.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September67.1°F (19.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October63.5°F (17.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
November57.6°F (14.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
December52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Shell Beach

To visit Shell Beach, California, you can fly into several major airports. San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) is the closest at 9.7km away, with nearby accommodations like the 4.5-star Hotel San Luis Obispo and Garden Street Inn, both just 4.8km from the airport. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is 111.0km away, featuring luxurious options such as The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, 8.0km from the airport. Lastly, Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX), located 35.4km from Shell Beach, offers hotels like the 5-star Wine Stone Inn, 3.2km away. Each airport provides accessible transport options to their respective hotels.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best hotels in Shell Beach that travellers recommend?
For highly recommended hotels in Shell Beach, the Shell Beach Inn and The Palomar Inn are both excellent choices.

The Shell Beach Inn, with an impressive 9.6 rating, is frequently praised by guests for its clean and nice rooms and comfortable beds. Its location is described as great and quiet, and the staff are noted as attentive and wonderful. This inn offers amenities such as air conditioning, a kitchen in some rooms, and an outdoor pool with sun loungers. It is conveniently located near Eldwayen Ocean Park and Margo Dodd Park, both just 0.8 km and 0.4 km away respectively.

Another option is The Palomar Inn, rated 7.4. Guests appreciate the easy self-parking and the spacious suites. This inn provides air conditioning and a terrace. It is also close to Eldwayen Ocean Park, which is 0.5 km away.
What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Shell Beach?
For a top pet-friendly hotel in Shell Beach, The Palomar Inn is a great option.

The Palomar Inn, with a 7.4 rating, welcomes both dogs and cats. Guests have noted the easy parking and spacious rooms. The hotel is conveniently located near Eldwayen Ocean Park, just 0.5 km away, as well as Margo Dodd Park and Dinosaur Caves Park, which are 0.8 km and 0.9 km away respectively.
What are the best budget hotels in Shell Beach?
For budget-friendly accommodation in Shell Beach, two highly-rated options are The Palomar Inn and Shell Beach Inn.

The Palomar Inn, with a solid 7.4 rating, offers convenient amenities such as free self-parking and complimentary toiletries. Guests have commented on the easy parking and the spacious rooms. It is also well-located, being only 0.5 km from Eldwayen Ocean Park and 0.9 km from Dinosaur Caves Park.

Another excellent choice is the Shell Beach Inn, boasting an impressive 9.6 rating. This inn provides free Wi-Fi, free self-parking, and a kitchen in some rooms. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor pool and sun loungers. Reviewers frequently praise the nice, clean rooms, the quiet and great location, the attentive and wonderful staff, and the comfortable beds. It is very close to Dinosaur Caves Park, just 0.4 km away, and Eldwayen Ocean Park is 0.8 km from the property.
What are the most romantic hotels in Shell Beach for couples?
For a romantic stay in Shell Beach, the Shell Beach Inn is an excellent choice for couples.

The Shell Beach Inn, with an outstanding 9.6 rating, offers a wonderful experience with its comfortable beds and clean rooms. Guests frequently praise the attentive and wonderful staff, as well as the hotel's quiet location. This hotel features a lovely outdoor pool with sun loungers, and many rooms offer mountain views. It also provides the convenience of free WiFi and complimentary self-parking. The hotel is well-situated for exploring the local area, being just 0.4 km from Margo Dodd Park and Dinosaur Caves Park, and 0.8 km from Eldwayen Ocean Park.
When is the best time to go to Shell Beach?
The best time to visit Shell Beach is during the late spring and early autumn months, specifically from April to June and September to October.

These periods offer the most pleasant weather, with warm, sunny days and fewer crowds than the peak summer season. You'll find ideal conditions for exploring the tide pools, enjoying the beaches, and partaking in outdoor activities like kayaking or hiking the coastal trails. The ocean temperatures are also more inviting for a dip during these months.

For those looking to avoid the busiest times entirely, late autumn (November) can also be a good option. While the weather might be cooler, you'll experience a very quiet Shell Beach, superb for a relaxing getaway and enjoying the dramatic coastal scenery without interruption.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline – this is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable booking, it might still be possible to receive a refund if you cancel it within 24 hours of booking. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use our "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right Shell Beach hotel for you.
How can I save on a Shell Beach hotel booking with Expedia?
With Expedia, you'll unlock our lowest prices by becoming a member. It's free and easy to join, and you can even access member perks too. Just remember to sign in to get our best prices on Shell Beach hotels. Another way to save is by booking your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can lead to significant savings.
How much is the nightly rate at a Shell Beach hotel?
Hotel prices in Shell Beach often vary, but you can find a great deal on Expedia. Different factors affect nightly hotel rates, such as the time of year or the days of the week you want to book. To find the best deals for your stay, be flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.

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