A coastal landscape with rocky outcrops in the water, a distant mountain range, and a clear sky.

Hotels in Shell Beach, Pismo Beach

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Our top choices for Shell Beach hotels

1. The Palomar Inn

The Palomar Inn
2.0 star property
Shell Beach
7.4 out of 10, Good, (641 reviews)
"Parking was great, rooms clean and was very quiet. It’s the second time I stay here and I have never been disappointed"
United States
Lisandra Z
The price is CA $125
CA $143 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 27 - Jul 28
The Palomar Inn

2. Shell Beach Inn

Shell Beach Inn
2.0 star property
Shell Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (527 reviews)
"The Shell Beach Inn is a wonderful little boutique hotel! We love the layout of the rooms and they are well stocked! They have a great pool and chairs to hang outside of f you choose. We love that you can walk around all of Shell Beach!"
United States
Marian
The price is CA $264
CA $302 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 16 - Aug 17
Shell Beach Inn

3. Spyglass Inn

Spyglass Inn
3.0 star property
1.7 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,707 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Julie
The price is CA $321
CA $368 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 3 - Aug 4
Spyglass Inn

4. Inn at the Cove

Inn at the Cove
3.5 star property
1.1 km from Shell Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,706 reviews)
"We had a great time at Inn at the Cove. We can’t wait to go back."
United States
Rick
The price is CA $419
CA $481 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Inn at the Cove

5. 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, (1,988 reviews)
"Great place to stay"
Australia
Dagmara
The price is CA $151
CA $190 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Oxford Suites Pismo Beach

6. Pacific Point Resort

Pacific Point Resort
3.0 star property
1.9 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,310 reviews)
"Nice beach and ocean view"
United States
Hanah
The price is CA $365
CA $476 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 11 - Aug 12
Pacific Point Resort

7. Sea Garden Inn Pismo Beach- San Luis Obispo

Sea Garden Inn Pismo Beach- San Luis Obispo
2.0 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3.5 km from Shell Beach
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (392 reviews)
"It's convenient to the beach, restaurant and shopping."
United States
Joi
The price is CA $130
CA $165 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 21 - Jul 22
Sea Garden Inn Pismo Beach- San Luis Obispo

8. SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel
3.5 star property
2.2 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,856 reviews)
"Excellent location, friendly staff and great amenities."
United States
Charles
The price is CA $407
CA $467 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

9. 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, (1,410 reviews)
"Nice pool, clean rooms, good location"
United States
Leydy
The price is CA $175
CA $199 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 2 - Aug 3
Best Western Casa Grande Inn

10. Pismo Beachwalker Inn & Suites

Pismo Beachwalker Inn & Suites
2.0 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3.5 km from Shell Beach
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"We loved how close this was to the beach. Our hotel with a good price that's not directly on the beach… It was just a quick couple minute walk."
United States
Katie ann
The price is CA $144
CA $179 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Pismo Beachwalker Inn & Suites

11. Days Inn by Wyndham Arroyo Grande/Pismo Beach

Days Inn by Wyndham Arroyo Grande/Pismo Beach
2.5 star property
7 km from Shell Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,119 reviews)
"Staff was amazing i will definitely be stay there again"
United States
ken
The price is CA $113
CA $143 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 2 - Aug 3
Days Inn by Wyndham Arroyo Grande/Pismo Beach

12. Ocean Palms Motel

Ocean Palms Motel
2.5 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3.6 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"A very nice place to stay."
United States
John
The price is CA $118
CA $168 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 26 - Jul 27
Ocean Palms Motel

13. Cottage Inn By The Sea

Cottage Inn By The Sea
3.0 star property
2.1 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,375 reviews)
"Great place to stay while visiting our home away from home."
United States
Talia
The price is CA $378
CA $434 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 3 - Aug 4
Cottage Inn By The Sea

14. Holiday Inn Express Grover Beach-Pismo Beach Area by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Grover Beach-Pismo Beach Area by IHG
2.5 star property
6.6 km from Shell Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"Great hotel, excellent price on the night we stayed there -very clean, large room, super breakfast, good location"
United States
Stephen
The price is CA $181
CA $206 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 16 - Aug 17
Holiday Inn Express Grover Beach-Pismo Beach Area by IHG

15. Avila Village Inn

Avila Village Inn
3.5 star property
5.9 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,008 reviews)
"Great place to stay will definitely be back!"
United States
Susan
The price is CA $218
CA $293 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 26 - Jul 27
Avila Village Inn

16. Hampton Inn & Suites Arroyo Grande/Pismo Beach Area, CA

Hampton Inn & Suites Arroyo Grande/Pismo Beach Area, CA
2.5 star property
7.1 km from Shell Beach
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"Properly was clean and location fit our needs on the one night trip. Staff was helpful and friendly."
United States
Mary
The price is CA $182
CA $207 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Hampton Inn & Suites Arroyo Grande/Pismo Beach Area, CA

17. American Inn Grover Beach

American Inn Grover Beach
2.0 star property
5.7 km from Shell Beach
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (828 reviews)
"Check in guy was super friendly and my parents were very happy with their stay!"
United States
Brittany
The price is CA $126
CA $143 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 16 - Aug 17
American Inn Grover Beach

18. Edgewater Inn And Suites

Edgewater Inn And Suites
2.0 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3 km from Shell Beach
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (3,106 reviews)
"Great location and staff."
United States
Robert
The price is CA $276
CA $316 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 16 - Aug 17
Edgewater Inn And Suites

19. The Tides Oceanview Inn and Cottages

The Tides Oceanview Inn and Cottages
3.0 star property
2.3 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (278 reviews)
"Great place to stay"
United States
Casey
The price is CA $321
CA $368 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
The Tides Oceanview Inn and Cottages

20. Pacific Inn

Pacific Inn
2.0 star property
5.7 km from Shell Beach
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (592 reviews)
"Clean, quiet and wonderful staff. Would stay here again :)"
Canada
Heather
The price is CA $138
CA $156 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 20 - Jul 21
Pacific Inn
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 Beach Surf Shop and Pismo State Beach.

Pismo Heights

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

855634304

If you're spending some time in 855634304, Pismo Beach Premium Outlets and Yang Sheng Foot Spa 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 Pismo Beach Surf Shop.

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 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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