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

Shell Beach Hotels near Pismo Beach

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Our top choices for Shell Beach hotels

1. Shell Beach Inn

Shell Beach Inn
2.0 star property
Shell Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (528 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 P11,586
P13,265 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 16 - Aug 17
Shell Beach Inn

2. The Palomar Inn

The Palomar Inn
2.0 star property
Shell Beach
7.4 out of 10, Good, (642 reviews)
"Great for the price and location."
United States
Alena
The price is P5,488
P6,284 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 17 - Aug 18
The Palomar Inn

3. Inn at the Cove

Inn at the Cove
3.5 star property
1.1 km from Shell Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,711 reviews)
"We had a great time at Inn at the Cove. We can’t wait to go back."
United States
Rick
The price is P18,416
P21,123 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Inn at the Cove

4. Spyglass Inn

Spyglass Inn
3.0 star property
1.7 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,717 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Julie
The price is P14,083
P16,153 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 2 - Aug 3
Spyglass Inn

5. SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel
3.5 star property
2.2 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,861 reviews)
"Excellent location, friendly staff and great amenities."
United States
Charles
The price is P19,648
P22,535 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

6. Pacific Point Resort

Pacific Point Resort
3.0 star property
1.9 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,316 reviews)
"Loved this property. Such beautiful views, great amenities, and beach access."
United States
Rachel
The price is P14,627
P19,302 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 12 - Aug 13
Pacific Point Resort

7. 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, (1,994 reviews)
"Great place to stay"
Australia
Dagmara
The price is P6,652
P8,337 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Oxford Suites Pismo Beach

8. 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, (1,003 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 P7,984
P9,078 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Hampton Inn & Suites Arroyo Grande/Pismo Beach Area, CA

9. The Agrarian Hotel, BW Signature Collection

The Agrarian Hotel, BW Signature Collection
2.5 star property
9.4 km from Shell Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,006 reviews)
"A great location and very well maintained property"
United States
gina
The price is P11,203
P12,737 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 2 - Aug 3
The Agrarian Hotel, BW Signature Collection

10. 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, (3,119 reviews)
"Location was perfect! Rooms were clean and affordable. Great for families."
United States
Nhang
The price is P12,159
P13,922 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 16 - Aug 17
Edgewater Inn And Suites

11. 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, (1,005 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 P9,301
P10,574 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Holiday Inn Express Grover Beach-Pismo Beach Area by IHG

12. 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, (1,416 reviews)
"Nice pool, clean rooms, good location"
United States
Leydy
The price is P7,152
P8,117 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Best Western Casa Grande Inn

13. Hilton Garden Inn San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach

Hilton Garden Inn San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach
3.0 star property
Pismo Oaks, 5.1 km from Shell Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,007 reviews)
"Great convenient location. Nice lobby, comfy beds and bathroom. Black out curtains. Would stay here again."
United States
Rachel
The price is P8,925
P10,236 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Hilton Garden Inn San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach

14. 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, (1,377 reviews)
"Great place to stay while visiting our home away from home."
United States
Talia
The price is P16,618
P19,060 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Cottage Inn By The Sea

15. 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, (1,372 reviews)
"The room and the property were very clean"
United States
Alex
The price is P10,143
P11,532 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 2 - Aug 3
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo

16. 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 P14,105
P16,178 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 16 - Aug 17
The Tides Oceanview Inn and Cottages

17. Courtyard by Marriott San Luis Obispo

Courtyard by Marriott San Luis Obispo
3.0 star property
9.9 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,003 reviews)
"We had a fantastic stay , beautiful hotel , pool and hot tub are great , very nice food in the lobby restaurant and the staff are friendly and accommodating all around. The room was spotless clean , comfortable , nice hot water and cold A/C , perfect place to stay. 100% will be back next time we're heading through the area !"
United States
Michael
The price is P8,377
P9,524 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 10 - Aug 11
Courtyard by Marriott San Luis Obispo

18. Hampton Inn & Suites San Luis Obispo

Hampton Inn & Suites San Luis Obispo
2.5 star property
10 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
"We had an early morning AM check-in after a long flight and the staff was ready and pleasant. Beds were comfy and breakfast was an added bonus!"
United States
Denise
The price is P8,043
P9,145 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 26 - Jul 27
Hampton Inn & Suites San Luis Obispo

19. 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, (394 reviews)
"Very clean, very quiet, perfect location within walking distance of the ocean and the pier easy walk to good restaurants as well"
United States
Timothy
The price is P6,596
P8,258 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 22 - Jul 23
Sea Garden Inn Pismo Beach- San Luis Obispo

20. Dolphin Cove Motel

Dolphin Cove Motel
2.0 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3.2 km from Shell Beach
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
"The room was very clean and staff was accommodating when I requested to move too a downstairs room."
United States
Yolanda
The price is P12,747
P15,300 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 23 - Jul 24
Dolphin Cove Motel
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 Coastal Scenery: Shell Beach boasts breathtaking views, perfect for relaxing and enjoying picturesque sunsets.
  • Outdoor Activities: Engage in paddle boating and explore nature reserves, ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The area caters to families with various recreational options and beachfront access.
  • Charming Accommodations: Choose from beachfront hotels and delightful resorts for a comfortable stay.
  • Vibrant Local Culture: Discover nearby parks and promenades that showcase the charm of coastal living.

Find great hotels near Shell Beach

For an unforgettable getaway to Shell Beach, you'll discover a variety of exceptional lodging options, including beachfront hotels and charming resorts. Ideal for families and adventure seekers alike, these accommodations offer easy access to the stunning shoreline and local attractions. With numerous hotel reviews and vacation rentals available, you'll find the perfect base for your coastal retreat in Pismo Beach, ensuring a memorable holiday experience by the sea.

  • Oxford Suites Pismo Beach: Nestled approximately 5km from Shell Beach, Oxford Suites Pismo Beach is a budget-friendly motel that caters to adventurous families and business travellers alike, boasting a commendable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This accommodation provides a variety of adventure sports and recreational activities both onsite and nearby, including sailing, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and scooter rentals. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities for children, including a First Aid Kit, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay.
  • SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel: Just 2km from Shell Beach, the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel is a 3.5-star lodging option featuring a beach and hot spring theme, with a notable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This hotel offers direct access to the beach, allowing guests to unwind by the ocean. Additionally, the property has a natural hot spring nearby, enhancing the relaxation experience. Families will find child-friendly amenities such as a children’s pool and safety features like a pool gate, making it an excellent choice for a family getaway.
  • Edgewater Inn And Suites: Located 3km from Shell Beach, Edgewater Inn And Suites is another budget-friendly option with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. This motel focuses on providing a beach-themed experience, complete with direct beach access and a natural hot spring nearby. The inviting atmosphere is perfect for those looking to enjoy a beach vacation, while travellers can also take advantage of the hot spring amenities, ensuring a relaxing stay.

Where to stay near Shell Beach

Shell Beach, a charming neighbourhood in Pismo Beach, California, offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and stunning coastal scenery. Ideal for family-friendly getaways or romantic escapes, visitors can enjoy beach access, coastal amenities, and a relaxing atmosphere. Nearby attractions provide opportunities for excursions and recreation, making it a perfect beachside retreat. Experience the unique vibes of this coastal haven, where every moment is a chance to unwind and appreciate the beauty of the Californian coast.

  • Pismo Beach: A vibrant coastal city, Pismo Beach is where Shell Beach is situated, offering a delightful mix of outdoor activities and scenic beauty. With peak visitor numbers from April to July, this locale is perfect for beach lovers seeking sun-kissed sands and exciting recreational areas. Highlights include the iconic Pismo Beach pier and family-friendly beach spots, alongside opportunities for relaxation at local spas. The charming atmosphere is complemented by various educational venues and stunning ocean views, making it an ideal getaway for tourists.
  • Avila Beach: Located a mere 6km from Shell Beach, Avila Beach is a picturesque city known for its serene beach experiences and scenic landscapes. Like Pismo Beach, it attracts visitors in the spring and summer months, offering a plethora of outdoor activities. Avila Beach stands out with its golf courses and spa facilities, perfect for those looking to unwind while enjoying the coastal charm. The beautiful beaches and family-friendly environment make it a fantastic spot for a relaxing holiday.
  • Saint Andrews: Just 1km from Shell Beach, Saint Andrews is a quaint neighbourhood that promises a mix of outdoor adventure and romantic ambiance. With visitor numbers peaking in the summer months, this area is less seasonal, making it a year-round destination. Attractions include beautiful beaches and event venues, ideal for gatherings and family outings. Those seeking entertainment-themed experiences will find various local activities, alongside opportunities for relaxation with professional spa and body treatment options available.

Things to do near Shell Beach

Shopping

In Shell Beach, explore local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs, with a charming atmosphere perfect for leisurely browsing. Nearby, Pismo Beach offers the Pismo Beach Premium Outlets, featuring a variety of well-known brands at discounted prices, making it a worthwhile visit for shoppers.

Recreation

At the Shell Beach Spa, indulge in rejuvenating treatments inspired by the ocean, including seaweed wraps and aromatherapy massages. Nearby, the Pismo Beach Yoga Centre offers serene classes with breathtaking coastal views, allowing you to find inner peace while surrounded by nature's beauty.

Adventure

Santa Maria Speedway, located 27km from Shell Beach, offers exhilarating motor racing experiences in a vibrant atmosphere. Feel the adrenaline as you watch skilled drivers compete, or immerse yourself in the excitement of the races, surrounded by fellow motorsport enthusiasts.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Marisol Restaurant, where you can enjoy exquisite coastal cuisine and cocktails. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the Shell Beach Fish Market, known for its fresh seafood and casual atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shell Beach

To save money on your visit to Shell Beach, plan your trip between December and February when accommodation prices are lower. Consider booking your stay on a Tuesday, as it is the least expensive day. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter for eco-friendly hotels and arrange your options by price from lowest to highest. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotel stays, and activities to maximise savings. Take advantage of free activities in the area and consider walking for local transport to keep costs down.

  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking at Shell Beach with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Shell Beach

Shell Beach offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and scenic beauty, making it an ideal spot for a beach vacation. Visitors can explore various points of interest, including picturesque beaches, nature reserves, and urban parks. The area caters to families and those seeking a vibrant city experience, with options like nearby parks, beachfront promenades, and charming districts to discover around Shell Beach.

  • Pismo Beach Pier: This charming pier, located 3km from Shell Beach, offers a delightful atmosphere for families and visitors alike. Enjoy scenic excursions, take in the friendly vibes, and witness stunning views of the coastline while strolling along the jetty.
  • Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area: Situated 6km from Shell Beach, this expansive dune area provides breathtaking scenery. Explore the vast sandy landscapes, perfect for off-road adventures and photography, all while soaking in the natural beauty of the California coast.
  • Pismo Preserve: Just 2km from Shell Beach, this tranquil reserve is ideal for walking and nature observation. With well-maintained trails, visitors can enjoy the serene environment and vibrant wildlife in a peaceful setting.

Best time to go to Shell Beach

The best time to visit Shell Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Shell Beach falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Shell Beach falls in December and February. February has average visitor numbers and sunny weather.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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

Reaching Shell Beach in California is convenient with three major airports nearby. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is 111km away, with luxurious hotels like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara (8km) and El Encanto (13km). Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX) is closer at 35km, featuring the Wine Stone Inn (3km) and Historic Santa Maria Inn (5km). The nearest is San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), located 10km from Shell Beach, with excellent options like Hotel San Luis Obispo (5km) and Inn at the Pier (11km). Each airport provides accessible transport services to these hotels, ensuring a seamless arrival experience.

Frequently asked questions

What's it like in Shell Beach?
Shell Beach is a neighborhood that travelers like for its beaches. Consider a visit to Eldwayen Ocean Park as part of your Shell Beach travel plans.
What's a favorite hotel to stay in Shell Beach?
Based on our traveler data, Shell Beach Inn is one of the top choices for your stay in Shell Beach. This hotel offers an outdoor pool and free parking. Another good option for your stay in the area is The Palomar Inn.
How many hotels should I expect to find in the Shell Beach area?
If you're searching for places to stay in Pismo Beach, Expedia has something to meet your needs with 26 Shell Beach hotels and other accommodations to choose from.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Shell Beach, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel room reservations are fully refundable if you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before the scheduled arrival. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you might be able to cancel it and receive a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Add your dates and click on "Search", then you can filter by "fully refundable" to review the best deals available in Shell Beach.
What are the top things to see and do in Shell Beach?
Spend some time exploring the natural setting of Shell Beach with a visit to Margo Dodd Park and Dinosaur Caves Park. A visit to Eldwayen Ocean Park is also worth the trip while you're discovering the neighborhood. A few places to visit in the area around Shell Beach include Pismo Preserve, The Spa at Dolphin Bay, and Tastes of the Valleys Wine Bar & Shop. Sans Liege Wines and Pismo Beach Surf Shop are also worth a visit when you're out sightseeing in Pismo Beach.

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