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

Pismo Beach Hotel Guide. Hotels in Shell Beach, Pismo Beach, United States of America

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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 €85
includes taxes & fees
9 Jul - 10 Jul
The Palomar Inn

Shell Beach Inn

Shell Beach Inn
2.0 star property
Shell Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (522 reviews)
"Such a great location. Peaceful and close to a lot but far enough from the main downtown so it’s not loud. The heated pool was so nice"
United States
Candace
The price is €198
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 €127
includes taxes & fees
13 Jul - 14 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, (1,015 reviews)
"Great location."
United States
Alicia
The price is €139
includes taxes & fees
12 Jul - 13 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, (1,009 reviews)
"Very nice stay."
United States
John
The price is €180
includes taxes & fees
26 Jul - 27 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, (161 reviews)
"Very clean , amazing staff 💕"
United States
Zindia
The price is €172
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
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (46 reviews)
"Place was very hip. Decorated beautifully and easy check in. Would definitely stay again."
United States
Amy
The price is €162
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, (407 reviews)
"Very sweet staff, lovely room."
United States
Haylie
The price is €88
includes taxes & fees
26 Jul - 27 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 €93
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, (1,301 reviews)
"Great location"
United States
Tracy
The price is €108
includes taxes & fees
21 Jul - 22 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 €235
includes taxes & fees
21 Jul - 22 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 €135
includes taxes & fees
9 Jul - 10 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, (1,671 reviews)
"Very nice room and close beach access"
United States
Luis
The price is €255
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 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 €95
includes taxes & fees
9 Jul - 10 Jul
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 €118
includes taxes & fees
14 Jul - 15 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, (1,009 reviews)
"Good location and Good price."
United States
Steven
The price is €76
includes taxes & fees
19 Jul - 20 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)
"It was quirky, fun, and surprisingly great food too. The pool area was beautiful."
United States
Stacy
The price is €277
includes taxes & fees
13 Jul - 14 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 €280
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, (817 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 €85
includes taxes & fees
9 Jul - 10 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 €100
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
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 beautiful sandy shores perfect for relaxation and recreation.
  • Outdoor Activities: Visitors can engage in paddle boating and explore scenic promenades along the coast.
  • Scenic Sunsets: The beach offers breathtaking sunset views, ideal for romantic evenings.
  • Family-Friendly Environment: Shell Beach is perfect for families, with various attractions for all ages.
  • Charming Accommodations: Enjoy a range of inviting beachfront hotels and vacation rentals for a memorable stay.

Find great hotels near Shell Beach

Discover the perfect getaway at Shell Beach, where a selection of inviting beachfront hotels and resorts await you. Catering to beach lovers and families alike, these accommodations offer a wealth of amenities and are ideally situated for adventure and relaxation. With excellent hotel reviews and a range of vacation rentals, you'll find the ideal base for exploring the stunning coastline of Pismo Beach and creating unforgettable memories.

  • Oxford Suites Pismo Beach: A budget-friendly option with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, Oxford Suites Pismo Beach is an ideal choice for those seeking adventure and family-friendly activities. Located 4.8km from Shell Beach, this motel-style lodging provides a variety of recreational pursuits, including windsurfing, surfing, and sailing, all within easy reach. Families will appreciate the amenities tailored for children, such as a first aid kit, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay. With a focus on adventure sports, this accommodation is well-suited for travellers eager to explore the surrounding natural beauty.
  • Inn at the Pier Pismo Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton: This 4-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10 and is located a mere 3.2km from Shell Beach. The Inn at the Pier offers direct access to the beach, making it a perfect retreat for beach enthusiasts. With a modern aesthetic and a relaxed atmosphere, guests can unwind while soaking in the coastal views. The hotel's facilities cater well to those looking to embrace the seaside lifestyle, combining comfort with convenience for a truly memorable beach vacation experience.
  • Holiday Inn Express Grover Beach-Pismo Beach Area by IHG: With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, this budget-friendly hotel is positioned 6.4km from Shell Beach. The Holiday Inn Express is tailored for business travellers seeking a comfortable stay without compromising on quality. Guests can expect essential amenities and services designed for efficiency, making it an ideal base for exploring the local area or attending business engagements. This accommodation strikes a balance between functionality and comfort, ensuring a pleasant stay for those on work-related trips.

Where to stay near Shell Beach

Experience the idyllic charm of Shell Beach, a perfect seaside retreat for families and couples alike. Enjoy easy beach access and explore the stunning coastal amenities that surround this picturesque neighbourhood. Relax on the sandy shores, partake in various recreational activities, or embark on scenic excursions nearby. With its inviting atmosphere and budget-friendly options, Shell Beach promises a delightful beachside getaway that captures the essence of California’s coastal beauty.

  • Avila Beach: Nestled approximately 6.4km from Shell Beach, Avila Beach is a charming seaside city that attracts visitors year-round, with peak traveller arrivals in spring and summer. This idyllic destination is renowned for its stunning outdoor scenery and relaxing beach atmosphere. Visitors can indulge in various activities, including spa treatments and golf at nearby courses. The local landmarks, such as the picturesque beach, family-friendly shoreline, and the scenic jetty pier, provide ample opportunities for leisure and exploration. Avila Beach is perfect for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.
  • Pismo Beach: Serving as the larger city encompassing Shell Beach, Pismo Beach is a vibrant coastal haven that welcomes tourists throughout the year, particularly in the bustling months of spring and summer. The area is celebrated for its beautiful beaches and captivating natural landscapes, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy educational pursuits, rejuvenating spa experiences, and access to recreational areas. Key attractions like the stunning beach, family-friendly shores, and the iconic jetty pier enhance the allure of this coastal city, ensuring a memorable visit.
  • Downtown Pismo Beach: Just 3.2km away from Shell Beach, Downtown Pismo Beach is a lively neighbourhood that remains popular among visitors all year round, with a notable peak during the summer months. This area offers a delightful beachside experience, featuring stunning scenery and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can partake in golf at local courses or explore educational attractions. The proximity to the beach, family-friendly areas, and the charming jetty pier make Downtown Pismo Beach a must-visit for anyone looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the coastal lifestyle.

Things to do near Shell Beach

Shopping

In Shell Beach, visit the charming local boutiques and shops along Price Street, offering unique gifts and souvenirs. Just a short drive away, Pismo Beach Premium Outlets features a variety of brand-name stores, perfect for finding memorable items during your California getaway.

Recreation

In Shell Beach, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, where natural hot springs enhance relaxation. Nearby, the Pismo Beach Yoga Centre offers serene classes, allowing you to connect with nature while improving your well-being amidst the stunning coastal scenery.

Adventure

Santa Maria Speedway offers exhilarating motor racing experiences located 27.4km from Shell Beach. Here, you can immerse yourself in the thrilling atmosphere of high-speed races, where the excitement of sports and adventure intertwines, making it a unique outing for motorsport enthusiasts.

Nightlife

In Shell Beach, enjoy a relaxed evening at the charming Shell Beach Tavern, where you can sip local wines while soaking in the coastal views. For a lively atmosphere, venture to nearby Pismo Beach for beachside bars and live music that captures the essence of California’s nightlife.

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

Find the best attractions in and around Shell Beach

Shell Beach offers a delightful escape for outdoor enthusiasts, with stunning sandy beaches and picturesque scenery. Visitors can enjoy a beachfront promenade, explore nearby parks and reserves, and discover charming shell beach districts. The area is perfect for families seeking both relaxation and adventure, with a variety of attractions that cater to city and nature experiences alike. Whether you're strolling along the coast or immersing yourself in the local charm, Shell Beach has something for everyone.

  • Eldwayen Ocean Park: Nestled within Shell Beach, Eldwayen Ocean Park offers breathtaking coastal views and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for leisurely strolls or picnics. The park features lush greenery and pathways that lead to stunning ocean vistas.
  • Pismo Beach Pier: Located 3.2km from Shell Beach, this lively pier is a hub of activity, perfect for family-friendly excursions. Visitors can enjoy fishing, dining, and the welcoming vibes of fellow beachgoers while taking in the picturesque sunset views.
  • Avila Hot Springs: Situated 3.2km away, Avila Hot Springs invites guests to unwind in its natural thermal waters. Surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors, this locale is ideal for those seeking wellness and relaxation.

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

Accessing Shell Beach, California, is convenient through three major airports. San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) is situated 9.7km away, with nearby hotels such as the 4-star Inn at the Pier Pismo Beach and the 3-star Inn at Avila Beach, both within 11.3km. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) lies 111.0km from Shell Beach, offering luxury at the 5-star Hotel Californian, just 12.9km away. Lastly, Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX) is 35.4km from Shell Beach, with the 3.5-star Radisson Hotel Santa Maria located 805m from the airport. Each airport provides accessible transport options to these accommodations.

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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