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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, (473 reviews)
"The room was cozy, clean and perfect for our one night stay! We look forward to returning! "
United States
Kevin
The price is £124
includes taxes & fees
23 Mar - 24 Mar
Shell Beach Inn

The Palomar Inn

The Palomar Inn
2.0 star property
Shell Beach
7.4 out of 10, Good, (593 reviews)
"Very convenient to restaurants and the access to the beach"
United States
Cruz
The price is £61
includes taxes & fees
22 Mar - 23 Mar
The Palomar Inn

Residence Inn by Marriott San Luis Obispo

Residence Inn by Marriott San Luis Obispo
3.0 star property
7.1 mi from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (116 reviews)
"top notch location!!! we have now stayed here 2 times and will definitely stay here when we come to SLO!! Great staff, very clean room, view was incredible from the room, breakfast was awesome. Can't say enough good things about this location! Thank you to everyone on staff! Oh and the gym was great as well!"
United States
George
The price is £143
includes taxes & fees
29 Mar - 30 Mar
Residence Inn by Marriott San Luis Obispo

Dune Surfer Inn

Dune Surfer Inn
2.0 star property
4.3 mi from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (193 reviews)
"Attentive staff, Quality Room, Awesome Price."
United States
David
The price is £84
includes taxes & fees
23 Mar - 24 Mar
Dune Surfer Inn

Blue Sail Inn

Blue Sail Inn
2.5 star property
17.8 mi from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"Nice clean room and great location. Have stayed there a number of times, never disappointed."
United States
David
The price is £89
includes taxes & fees
23 Mar - 24 Mar
Blue Sail Inn

Bayfront Inn at the Waterfront

Bayfront Inn at the Waterfront
2.5 star property
18 mi from Shell Beach
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"The gentleman running the hotel was very kind, he made sure we were very comfortable and the room was very clean!"
United States
Jeremy
Bayfront Inn at the Waterfront

The Landing at Morro Bay

The Landing at Morro Bay
2.0 star property
17.7 mi from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Nice view of the rock. Beautiful weather"
United States
Sherry
The price is £66
includes taxes & fees
22 Mar - 23 Mar
The Landing at Morro Bay

Motel 6 Morro Bay, CA

Motel 6 Morro Bay, CA
2.0 star property
18.7 mi from Shell Beach
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1,006 reviews)
"Our stay was awesome, clean, safe, friendly!"
United States
Saul
The price is £62
includes taxes & fees
26 Mar - 27 Mar
Motel 6 Morro Bay, CA

Bay View Inn

Bay View Inn
2.5 star property
17.8 mi from Shell Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"Clean room, quiet, nice view (#12), cozy. Close to shops and restaurants Would stay again "
United States
Kathryn
The price is £63
includes taxes & fees
23 Mar - 24 Mar
Bay View Inn

Hotel Avanti

Hotel Avanti
2.5 star property
18.8 mi from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (310 reviews)
"Recommend this place forsure. Great location and very modern style rooms"
United States
Adi
The price is £88
includes taxes & fees
23 Mar - 24 Mar
Hotel Avanti

Madonna Inn

Madonna Inn
3.5 star property
7.8 mi from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,387 reviews)
"We have stayed here several times and it is always amazing"
United States
Beau
The price is £208
includes taxes & fees
25 Mar - 26 Mar
Madonna Inn

Spyglass Inn

Spyglass Inn
3.0 star property
1 mi from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,484 reviews)
"Perfect location, easily accessible, friendly staff, definitely looking forward to my next stay!"
United States
Lauren
The price is £148
includes taxes & fees
20 Apr - 21 Apr
Spyglass Inn

Sea Air Inn & Suites - Downtown - Restaurant Row

Sea Air Inn & Suites - Downtown - Restaurant Row
2.5 star property
17.7 mi from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (517 reviews)
"The hotel is center of downtown Morro and is walking distance to everything. The room was clean beds are comfortable. "
United States
Jeffrey
The price is £62
includes taxes & fees
23 Mar - 24 Mar
Sea Air Inn & Suites - Downtown - Restaurant Row

Hampton Inn Morro Bay

Hampton Inn Morro Bay
3.0 star property
18.7 mi from Shell Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (842 reviews)
"The staff were friendly and helpful. Room was clean, cool and convenient. We loved being able to walk to the beach. "
United States
jonathon
The price is £104
includes taxes & fees
20 Apr - 21 Apr
Hampton Inn Morro Bay

Inn At Morro Bay

Inn At Morro Bay
3.5 star property
16.2 mi from Shell Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"Beautiful hotel totally recommended!!"
United States
Maria
Inn At Morro Bay

Apple Farm

Apple Farm
3.5 star property
9.4 mi from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,605 reviews)
"Cute property with beautiful pool and charming gardens "
United States
Ingrid
Apple Farm

Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo

Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo
2.5 star property
8.3 mi from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,196 reviews)
"Close to downtown and the staff was excellent. "
United States
Joseph
The price is £57
includes taxes & fees
25 Mar - 26 Mar
Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo

Blufftop Inn & Suites - Wharf/Restaurant District

Blufftop Inn & Suites - Wharf/Restaurant District
2.0 star property
17.9 mi from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,009 reviews)
"Lovely place and great location "
United States
Vanessa
The price is £64
includes taxes & fees
23 Mar - 24 Mar
Blufftop Inn & Suites - Wharf/Restaurant District

Avila Village Inn

Avila Village Inn
3.5 star property
3.6 mi from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"Lovely area, friendly staff, newly built, quiet area, very clean and one of the most comfortable beds I’ve slept on. Would stay here again!"
United States
Marianne
The price is £145
includes taxes & fees
23 Mar - 24 Mar
Avila Village Inn

Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach

Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach
3.5 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 2.1 mi from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,595 reviews)
"Property was in great condition. Located directly on the beach and close to restaurants and shops. The ocean front rooms are worth the extra dollars in my experience."
Canada
Daeman
The price is £171
includes taxes & fees
20 Apr - 21 Apr
Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach
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. Learn more about Shell Beach
Learn more about Shell Beach

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.

Sunset Palisades

While Sunset Palisades isn't home to many top sights, Avila Hot Springs and Avila Valley Barn 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.

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 Coastal Scenery: Shell Beach boasts breathtaking views and a picturesque coastline, perfect for leisurely strolls and sunset watching.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: With play areas and nearby beaches, Shell Beach is ideal for families seeking fun and relaxation.
  • Outdoor Adventures: The area offers a range of outdoor pursuits for enthusiasts, from hiking to beachcombing.
  • Relaxing Spa Experiences: Visitors can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, enhancing their stay in this tranquil locale.
  • Diverse Accommodation Options: From oceanfront hotels to quaint inns, there's something to suit every budget and preference.

Find great hotels near Shell Beach

Discover the charm of Shell Beach, where a variety of accommodation options await to suit every traveller's needs. From serene oceanfront hotels to cosy inns, you'll find the perfect base for your beachside adventure. Whether you seek pet-friendly facilities or luxurious resorts, Shell Beach promises an unforgettable getaway with stunning coastal views and easy access to sun-soaked shores.

  • Oxford Suites Pismo Beach: Perfectly suited for adventurous families and business travellers, Oxford Suites Pismo Beach offers a comprehensive range of amenities to cater to all your needs. Located a mere 1.9km from Shell Beach, this motel provides excellent business facilities, including a Conference Centre, Meeting Rooms, and a 24-hour Business Centre. For those seeking adventure, numerous activities such as mountain biking, sailing, hiking, kayaking, and surfing are available nearby. Families will appreciate the thoughtful services for children, including a first aid kit, ensuring a worry-free stay.
  • SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel: With a charming beachside location just 621m from Shell Beach, SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel is an ideal choice for families seeking a relaxing beach holiday. This 3.5-star hotel boasts direct access to the sandy shores, allowing guests to enjoy sun-soaked days by the ocean. The hotel is family-friendly, featuring amenities specifically for children, including a children’s pool, making it a safe and fun environment for younger guests. The serene atmosphere and stunning ocean views add to the allure of this delightful accommodation.
  • Spyglass Inn: A pet-friendly gem located only 621m from Shell Beach, Spyglass Inn welcomes outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. This 3-star motel not only provides direct access to the beach but also offers a variety of adventure sports nearby, including kayaking, hiking, and bicycle rentals. With a pet policy that accommodates furry friends, it’s a perfect choice for those travelling with pets. Guests can also enjoy the scenic coastal views and the relaxing ambiance that Spyglass Inn offers, ensuring a memorable beach vacation.

Where to stay near Shell Beach

Shell Beach, a charming neighbourhood in Pismo Beach, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. While exploring, you can relax on nearby beaches, indulge in family-friendly activities, or enjoy a romantic sunset stroll. With a variety of hotels and budget-friendly accommodations, you're sure to find the perfect spot to unwind. This tranquil location is ideal for creating memorable excursions, making it the perfect choice for your next vacation.

  • Pismo Beach: Situated a mere 1.2km from Shell Beach, Pismo Beach is a charming coastal city renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant outdoor activities. With a moderately seasonal influx of visitors, the peak months are from April to July, making it ideal for sunbathers and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can indulge in spa treatments, explore recreational areas, or enjoy family-friendly activities along the picturesque jetty pier. Pismo Beach is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering breathtaking scenery and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it perfect for relaxation and exploration.
  • Avila Beach: Located approximately 2.5km from Shell Beach, Avila Beach is another delightful coastal city that shares the same stunning scenery and outdoor experiences. With a similar seasonal pattern, visitors flock to Avila Beach during the spring and summer months. The area boasts a beautiful beach and a national state park, providing ample opportunities for hiking and golfing. The charming village atmosphere and local spas ensure a delightful experience for those seeking a blend of relaxation and recreation. Avila Beach's picturesque setting offers a serene backdrop for a perfect seaside getaway.
  • Downtown Pismo Beach: Just 1.2km from Shell Beach, Downtown Pismo Beach is a bustling neighbourhood that attracts visitors year-round, with peak tourist activity from June to August. The area is known for its vibrant beachfront, educational attractions, and a plethora of golf courses. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the family-friendly beach, soaking in the stunning ocean views and lively atmosphere. The iconic jetty pier adds to the charm, making it a popular spot for photography and sunset watching. Downtown Pismo Beach truly encapsulates the lively spirit of the California coast.

Things to do near Shell Beach

Shell Beach offers a delightful seaside escape, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking scenic beauty. Visitors can indulge in spa treatments and body therapies while enjoying the recreational areas. Families will appreciate the play area, making it an ideal spot for children to have fun. With its tranquil atmosphere, Shell Beach is a fantastic destination for relaxation and leisure activities.

Shopping

In Shell Beach, visit the Pismo Beach Surf Shop, a mere 1.2km away, for beachwear and souvenirs. The Pismo Beach Premium Outlets, located 1.9km away, offers discounts on various brands. If you're up for a drive, the Downtown SLO Farmers' Market, 5.6km away, showcases local produce and crafts.

Recreation

At the Spa at Dolphin Bay, indulge in rejuvenating body treatments designed for ultimate relaxation, just 1.6km from Shell Beach. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Avila Beach Golf Resort offers a vibrant golfing experience, located four miles away, while the Avila Beach Community Center provides wellness activities in a tranquil setting.

Adventure

At North Beach Campground, enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with opportunities for hiking and beach exploration, located 1.9km from Shell Beach. The Bob Jones City to Sea Bike Trail, 2.5km away, offers scenic cycling routes. Avila Valley Barn, 1.9km from Shell Beach, provides a delightful farm experience with fresh produce.

Nightlife

In Shell Beach, The Great American Melodrama & Vaudeville provides a charming theatrical experience with a mix of entertainment and culture, while Regal Arroyo Grande cinema offers a romantic setting for film lovers, both just 3.1km away, ensuring a delightful evening out.

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 lowest. Avoid weekends, as Tuesdays typically offer the best hotel rates. Use Expedia to refine your search based on budget and preferences, sorting by price to find the best deals. Consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. For transport, public buses are a cost-effective option, and many free activities, such as beach outings and local parks, await you in the area.

  • 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, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Shell Beach hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Shell Beach

Shell Beach, a picturesque destination in California, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Visitors can enjoy the scenic coastline, explore local attractions like Pismo Beach and the nearby urban parks, or relax on the main beach. For those interested in cultural experiences, the area offers a rich blend of nature and community, making it an ideal spot for a memorable beach holiday.

  • Pismo State Beach: Located 1.2km from Shell Beach, Pismo State Beach offers stunning coastal views and a relaxed beach atmosphere. Perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or beachcombing, it’s an ideal spot for soaking up the Californian sun.
  • Swinging Bridge: Situated 3.7km away, the historic Swinging Bridge is a charming landmark that showcases local culture. Its unique design and surrounding scenery make it a delightful spot for photographs and a leisurely stroll.
  • Pismo Beach Pier: Just 1.2km from Shell Beach, Pismo Beach Pier is a hub of activity. Enjoy family-friendly excursions, watch fishermen at work, or simply take a leisurely walk while mingling with friendly locals.

Best time to go to Shell Beach

The best time to visit Shell Beach is dependant 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 (dry). 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 Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
May59.5°F (15.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June63.7°F (17.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July66.2°F (19.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August66.9°F (19.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September67.1°F (19.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October63.5°F (17.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
November57.6°F (14.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
December52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Shell Beach

To reach Shell Beach, California, you can fly into several airports. Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX) is 13.7km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Wine Stone Inn, just 1.2km from the airport, and the 3.5-star Radisson Hotel Santa Maria, located half 1.6km away. San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) is only 3.7km from Shell Beach, offering options such as the 4.5-star Hotel San Luis Obispo, 1.9km away, and the 4-star Inn at the Pier Pismo Beach, 4.3km distant. Additionally, Santa Ynez Airport (SQA) is 31.7km away, featuring the 4-star Chumash Casino Resort, 0.4.3km from the airport.

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?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Shell Beach.
How can I save on a Shell Beach hotel booking with Expedia?
Members always get our best prices. Find our best Shell Beach hotel deals by joining Expedia's free travel rewards program today. As a member, you can unlock instant savings and member perks when you're logged in to your account. Another tip is to book your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can result in 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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