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

The Palomar Inn

The Palomar Inn
2.0 star property
Shell Beach
7.4 out of 10, Good, (634 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 RM382
RM438 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Jul - 13 Jul
The Palomar Inn

Shell Beach Inn

Shell Beach Inn
2.0 star property
Shell Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (522 reviews)
"Great place to stay"
United States
David
The price is RM805
RM922 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Shell Beach Inn

Dune Surfer Inn

Dune Surfer Inn
2.0 star property
7 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (257 reviews)
"Great location, appreciate the pet-friendly aspect. Staff was friendly and helpful."
United States
Christopher
The price is RM526
RM592 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
Dune Surfer Inn

Inn At Morro Bay

Inn At Morro Bay
3.5 star property
26 km from Shell Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,014 reviews)
"Great location."
United States
Alicia
The price is RM478
RM548 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Jul - 10 Jul
Inn At Morro Bay

Blue Sail Inn

Blue Sail Inn
2.5 star property
28.6 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,008 reviews)
"Very nice stay."
United States
John
The price is RM731
RM839 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
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, (160 reviews)
"Very clean , amazing staff 💕"
United States
Zindia
The price is RM707
RM803 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Residence Inn by Marriott San Luis Obispo

The Q Inn

The Q Inn
2.0 star property
28.8 km from Shell Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (45 reviews)
"Place was very hip. Decorated beautifully and easy check in. Would definitely stay again."
United States
Amy
The price is RM658
RM754 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Jul - 10 Jul
The Q Inn

Hotel Avanti

Hotel Avanti
2.5 star property
30.3 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (406 reviews)
"Very sweet staff, lovely room."
United States
Haylie
The price is RM367
RM413 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
Hotel Avanti

Bay View Inn

Bay View Inn
2.5 star property
28.7 km from Shell Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,003 reviews)
"Nice staff and really great location."
United States
Isel
The price is RM380
RM436 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Jul - 14 Jul
Bay View Inn

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, (1,300 reviews)
"Great location"
United States
Tracy
The price is RM445
RM505 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo

Avila Village Inn

Avila Village Inn
3.5 star property
5.9 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,014 reviews)
"Great place to stay for a nice quite relaxing weekend. We look forward to staying here again"
United States
GEORGE
The price is RM854
RM1,100 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Jul - 13 Jul
Avila Village Inn

The Landing at Morro Bay

The Landing at Morro Bay
2.0 star property
28.5 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
"Really enjoy our stays there."
United States
Christine a
The price is RM474
RM543 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
The Landing at Morro Bay

Spyglass Inn

Spyglass Inn
3.0 star property
1.7 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,670 reviews)
"Very nice room and close beach access"
United States
Luis
The price is RM1,122
RM1,286 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Jul - 27 Jul
Spyglass Inn

Blufftop Inn & Suites - Wharf/Restaurant District

Blufftop Inn & Suites - Wharf/Restaurant District
2.0 star property
28.8 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"Had an excellent stay!"
United States
Eileen
The price is RM427
RM490 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Blufftop Inn & Suites - Wharf/Restaurant District

Pacific Shores Inn

Pacific Shores Inn
2.5 star property
28.5 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
"it was a great stay"
United States
Angela
The price is RM441
RM505 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
Pacific Shores Inn

Aloha Inn

Aloha Inn
2.0 star property
8.4 km from Shell Beach
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,008 reviews)
"Good location and Good price."
United States
Steven
The price is RM258
RM356 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Jul - 13 Jul
Aloha Inn

Madonna Inn

Madonna Inn
3.5 star property
12.5 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,518 reviews)
"Very unique place!! Great pool area, bar/lounge and bakery. Loved the “secret garden” too."
United States
Mary
The price is RM1,017
RM1,294 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Jul - 13 Jul
Madonna Inn

SeaVenture Beach Hotel

SeaVenture Beach Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3.5 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"Great location to beach & helpful with beach toys for kids!"
United States
Gabriela
The price is RM1,016
RM1,306 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Jul - 10 Jul
SeaVenture Beach Hotel

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, (816 reviews)
"We’ve stayed here before and will again. It’s an older place, but the rooms are nice."
United States
Ann
The price is RM349
RM396 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
American Inn Grover Beach

Sea Air Inn & Suites - Downtown - Restaurant Row

Sea Air Inn & Suites - Downtown - Restaurant Row
2.5 star property
28.5 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (573 reviews)
"We had a really nice stay and the room was very nice."
United States
Lisa
The price is RM406
RM465 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
Sea Air Inn & Suites - Downtown - Restaurant Row
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 for the activities you enjoy most.

Downtown Pismo Beach

If you're spending some time in Downtown Pismo Beach, Pismo State Beach and Pismo Beach Surf Shop are top sights worth seeing.

Pismo Heights

Though Pismo Heights may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Price Anniversary House and Pismo Beach Surf Shop.

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 isn't home to many top sights, Avila Hot Springs and The Spa at Dolphin Bay are some notable places to visit nearby.

Pacific Estates

Though Pacific Estates may 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 boasts picturesque sandy shores, perfect for relaxation and enjoying breathtaking sunsets.
  • Outdoor Activities: Engage in paddle boating and explore the beach stairway, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Charming Town: The nearby town of Pismo Beach offers delightful excursions, blending leisure with adventure.
  • Relaxing Spas: Rejuvenate with various spa treatments amidst the tranquil coastal atmosphere.
  • Family-Friendly Fun: Shell Beach is perfect for family outings, ensuring enjoyable experiences for all ages.

Find great hotels near Shell Beach

Discover ideal hotel accommodations in Shell Beach, Pismo Beach, where stunning beachfront properties cater to both adventure seekers and families alike. From luxurious resorts to charming hotels, you'll find a range of options that promise an unforgettable seaside experience. Explore top-rated hotels, read reviews, and consider vacation rentals for a perfect getaway by the ocean.

  • Oxford Suites Pismo Beach: Nestled approximately 5km from Shell Beach, Oxford Suites Pismo Beach offers a budget-friendly accommodation option with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This motel-style lodging caters to families, adventure seekers, and pet owners, providing a range of activities such as sailing, hiking, and surfing nearby. The property ensures a family-friendly atmosphere with amenities like a first aid kit for children and a pet-friendly policy allowing certain pets. Guests can enjoy various recreational activities on-site or in the vicinity, making it a suitable base for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
  • SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel: Located just 2km from Shell Beach, the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel boasts a 3.5-star rating and an impressive guest score of 9.2 out of 10. With direct beach access and proximity to natural hot springs, this hotel is ideal for those seeking a beach and adventure-themed getaway. Guests can indulge in activities like kayaking, windsurfing, and surfing, making the most of the coastal location. The hotel’s unique hot spring amenities and inviting atmosphere create a rejuvenating retreat for visitors looking to unwind by the sea.
  • Edgewater Inn And Suites: Approximately 3km from Shell Beach, Edgewater Inn And Suites is a budget-friendly option with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. This motel-style accommodation features direct access to the beach and is close to natural hot springs. It offers a relaxing environment for beach lovers and those looking to enjoy a hot spring experience. The property is well-suited for travellers who appreciate a laid-back atmosphere while still being able to engage in nearby beach activities, providing a tranquil escape without straying far from the shoreline.

Where to stay near Shell Beach

Discover the idyllic charm of Shell Beach, a perfect coastal retreat blending family-friendly fun with romantic getaways. Enjoy leisurely days on the sandy shores, where beach access invites relaxation and scenic views. Explore nearby Pismo Beach for vibrant excursions or unwind in the tranquil atmosphere of the surrounding neighbourhoods. This beachside haven offers a delightful mix of recreation and relaxation, making it a memorable destination for all types of travellers.

  • Pismo Beach: Pismo Beach is a vibrant city that serves as a gateway to Shell Beach. Known for its stunning coastal scenery, the area attracts visitors seeking outdoor adventures and beach relaxation. The peak tourist seasons from April to July bring a lively atmosphere, with opportunities for beach activities, scenic walks, and family outings. Key highlights include the picturesque beach, a family-friendly atmosphere, and the iconic jetty pier, where you can enjoy breathtaking sunsets. Spa facilities and recreational areas further enhance the travel experience, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration.
  • Avila Beach: Located a mere 6km from Shell Beach, Avila Beach is a charming coastal city that offers a delightful blend of relaxation and outdoor pursuits. Like Pismo Beach, it experiences peak visitor numbers in the spring and summer months, drawing crowds eager to soak up the sun. The sandy beaches and scenic surroundings are perfect for leisurely strolls, while the local golf courses and spa facilities provide ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. The inviting atmosphere, combined with attractions such as the family beach and jetty pier, make Avila Beach a must-visit destination for tourists.
  • Grover Beach: Also situated 6km from Shell Beach, Grover Beach is a welcoming city that boasts a more relaxed pace compared to its neighbours. With a consistent influx of visitors throughout the year, the city is particularly lively in the spring and summer months. Travellers are drawn to Grover Beach for its outdoor activities, scenic views, and family-friendly beaches. The area features several recreational spaces, educational venues, and golf courses, making it an ideal spot for both leisure and learning. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil beach, family beach, and jetty pier, ensuring a memorable seaside experience.

Things to do near Shell Beach

Shopping

Discover the charming shops in Shell Beach, where you can find local boutiques offering unique gifts and souvenirs. Nearby, the Pismo Beach Premium Outlets feature a variety of brand-name stores for a more extensive shopping experience, while the Pismo Beach Farmers Market presents fresh produce and artisan crafts every week.

Recreation

At the Ocean Spa, indulge in rejuvenating treatments with ocean views, offering soothing massages and holistic therapies. Nearby, the Pismo Beach Yoga Studio invites you to unwind through mindful yoga sessions, surrounded by calming coastal breezes and the sounds of the waves.

Adventure

Santa Maria Speedway offers an exhilarating motor racing experience located 27km from Shell Beach. Feel the thrill of high-speed racing amidst a vibrant atmosphere, where adrenaline meets the roar of engines, making it an exciting destination for motorsport enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant atmosphere at the Shell Beach Fish Market, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local wines. For a laid-back evening, visit the nearby Shell Beach Tavern to savour craft cocktails and live music from local artists, creating a relaxed yet lively ambience.

*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 trip to Shell Beach, consider visiting from December to February when accommodation prices are lower, and aim to book on a Tuesday for the best rates. Use Expedia's search wizard to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and sort by price to find the best deals. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights and hotel stays for extra savings. Explore free activities in the area and utilise public transport for economical travel around Pismo Beach to maximise your budget.

  • 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 the search wizard on Expedia to narrow down your options based on your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodation currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange 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 in and around Shell Beach

Shell Beach in Pismo Beach, California, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, nature reserves, and urban parks, making it ideal for family outings and city experiences. Highlights include the picturesque beachfront promenade, nearby Shell Beach districts, and the charming town of Pismo Beach, offering a delightful blend of leisure and adventure for all types of travellers.

  • Avila Hot Springs: Located 3km from Shell Beach, Avila Hot Springs offers a serene retreat with its natural hot springs. Visitors can soak in the warm mineral waters, surrounded by beautiful outdoor settings, making it an ideal spot for wellness and relaxation.
  • Eldwayen Ocean Park: This charming landmark within Shell Beach provides stunning ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s an excellent place for a leisurely stroll, picnicking, or simply enjoying the coastal scenery while listening to the gentle waves.
  • Pismo Beach Pier: Situated 3km from Shell Beach, Pismo Beach Pier is a vibrant destination for family-friendly excursions. With friendly locals and a lively atmosphere, the pier is perfect for fishing, walking, or enjoying breathtaking sunsets over the ocean.

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.

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

Accessing Shell Beach is convenient, with several major airports nearby. San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) is located 10km from Shell Beach, with excellent accommodation options such as Hotel San Luis Obispo, just 5km away. Other nearby hotels include Inn at the Pier and Vespera Resort, both 11km from the airport. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is 111km away, featuring luxurious hotels like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara and El Encanto, both 5 to 13km from the airport. Lastly, Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX) is 35km from Shell Beach, and nearby options include Wine Stone Inn and Historic Santa Maria Inn, both conveniently accessible from the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What's it like in Shell Beach?
Shell Beach is a neighbourhood that travellers like for its beaches. Consider a visit to Eldwayen Ocean Park as part of your Shell Beach travel plans.
What's a favourite place to stay in Shell Beach?
Based on our traveller 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 will I be able to find in Shell Beach?
If you're searching for places to stay in Pismo Beach, Expedia has something to meet your needs with 29 Shell Beach hotels and other accommodation options to choose from.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Shell Beach, will I receive a refund?
Yes! The majority of hotel room reservations are refundable if you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you may still be able to cancel and receive a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Put your dates in and click on "Search", then you can filter by "fully refundable" to view the top deals on offer 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 Dinosaur Caves Park and Margo Dodd Park. A visit to Eldwayen Ocean Park is also worth the trip while you're discovering the neighbourhood. 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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