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

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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, (532 reviews)
"Clean property and very convenient. I have stayed here multiple times and have always enjoyed the area."
United States
Leslie
The price is AED 691
AED 791 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Aug - 17 Aug
Shell Beach Inn

2. The Palomar Inn

The Palomar Inn
2.0 star property
Shell Beach
7.4 out of 10, Good, (652 reviews)
"Great for the price and location."
United States
Alena
The price is AED 305
AED 349 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
The Palomar Inn

3. Motel 6 Santa Maria, CA - North

Motel 6 Santa Maria, CA - North
2.0 star property
29.4 km from Shell Beach
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1,213 reviews)
"Never stay again"
United States
Oleksandr
The price is AED 203
AED 229 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Motel 6 Santa Maria, CA - North

4. Homewood Suites by Hilton Santa Maria

Homewood Suites by Hilton Santa Maria
3.0 star property
29.3 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (241 reviews)
"Rooms were very clean. Great for families."
United States
Luis
The price is AED 479
AED 540 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Aug - 17 Aug
Homewood Suites by Hilton Santa Maria

5. Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Maria

Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Maria
2.5 star property
29.1 km from Shell Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,007 reviews)
"Nice family hotel vacation place. ."
United States
Supriya
The price is AED 470
AED 529 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Maria

6. Candlewood Suites Santa Maria by IHG

Candlewood Suites Santa Maria by IHG
2.5 star property
29.3 km from Shell Beach
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,003 reviews)
"They have a full size fridge which is helpful if you want to buy any groceries for your stay."
United States
Sara
The price is AED 426
AED 479 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Candlewood Suites Santa Maria by IHG

7. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Maria

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Maria
3.0 star property
29.4 km from Shell Beach
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (796 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Alexandria
The price is AED 459
AED 518 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Maria

8. Best Western Plus Big America

Best Western Plus Big America
2.5 star property
29.7 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,008 reviews)
"Hotel was convenient for my work area, property was clean and room was satisfactory"
United States
Ron
The price is AED 417
AED 469 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Best Western Plus Big America

9. Hotel Avanti

Hotel Avanti
2.5 star property
30.3 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (433 reviews)
"The rooms are clean, the staff is very friendly and helpful. It’s become my go to hotel to stay in Santa Maria. I will be coming back!"
United States
CATYA
The price is AED 330
AED 372 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Hotel Avanti

10. 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, (1,004 reviews)
"Breakfast buffet was very good."
United States
Kevin
The price is AED 668
AED 760 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
The Agrarian Hotel, BW Signature Collection

11. La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection

La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection
2.5 star property
15.2 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,009 reviews)
"Great stay!!"
United States
Natalia
The price is AED 459
AED 522 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection

12. Apple Farm

Apple Farm
3.5 star property
15.2 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,649 reviews)
"Super friendly staff and a beautiful place to stay!"
United States
La Raye
The price is AED 443
AED 545 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Apple Farm

13. Mission Inn San Luis Obispo

Mission Inn San Luis Obispo
2.0 star property
15.1 km from Shell Beach
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (1,001 reviews)
"Excellent staff, beautiful clean and new surroundings, a pleasure to stay"
United States
Hertsel
The price is AED 323
AED 409 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Mission Inn San Luis Obispo

14. Hotel Buena Vista

Hotel Buena Vista
2.5 star property
15.2 km from Shell Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,011 reviews)
"Lovely hotel. It was quiet and close to downtown SLO. We will definitely stay here again!"
United States
Kathryn
The price is AED 401
AED 455 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Hotel Buena Vista

15. Peach Tree Inn

Peach Tree Inn
2.0 star property
15.1 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Really nice place - a bit dated, but it has everything you need."
United States
Laura
The price is AED 400
AED 509 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Peach Tree Inn

16. Inn at San Luis Obispo

Inn at San Luis Obispo
2.5 star property
15.1 km from Shell Beach
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1,002 reviews)
"Good for price in SLO"
United States
Rochelle
The price is AED 248
AED 282 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Inn at San Luis Obispo

17. Sands Inn & Suites

Sands Inn & Suites
2.5 star property
15.1 km from Shell Beach
7.8 out of 10, Good, (676 reviews)
"We will be back it was nice and clean and breakfast was delicious"
United States
Jessica
The price is AED 327
AED 372 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Aug - 26 Aug
Sands Inn & Suites

18. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown
3.0 star property
15 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,114 reviews)
"Great stay…comfortable beds, nice breakfast, walking distance to town and Cal Poly SLO. Would definitely choose to stay here again!"
United States
Dorothy
The price is AED 501
AED 570 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown

19. The Wayfarer San Luis Obispo, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

The Wayfarer San Luis Obispo, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
3.5 star property
15 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"The staff were very helpful and professional from the moment we checked in. Our room was immaculate and was exactly as we expected."
United States
Mario
The price is AED 449
AED 528 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
The Wayfarer San Luis Obispo, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

20. University Inn

University Inn
2.0 star property
15 km from Shell Beach
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (1,009 reviews)
"Hotel was decent"
United States
Cyrena
The price is AED 224
AED 359 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
University 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.

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 Pismo Lake Ecological Reserve 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 Scenery: Shell Beach boasts breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for relaxation and photography.
  • Outdoor Activities: Engage in a variety of activities, from nature tours to beach outings, catering to all adventure levels.
  • Charming Neighborhood: Experience the quaint charm of Shell Beach with its cozy inns and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy plenty of nearby attractions that cater to families, ensuring memorable experiences for all.
  • Scenic Sunsets: Witness spectacular sunsets that create a magical end to your day at the beach.

Find great hotels near Shell Beach

Discover the charm of Shell Beach with a variety of accommodation options that cater to every traveler's desire for adventure and relaxation. From cozy inns to oceanfront resorts, you'll find the perfect spot for your family vacation. Explore the stunning coastline, enjoy beach access, and take advantage of top-notch amenities. Dive into hotel reviews to choose the ideal Shell Beach hotel for your unforgettable getaway.

  • Oxford Suites Pismo Beach: Nestled 4.8km from Shell Beach, Oxford Suites Pismo Beach is the perfect choice for families and adventurous travelers, including those from the LGBTQIA community. This welcoming motel offers an array of adventure sports options nearby, including surfing, kayaking, and windsurfing, making it ideal for those seeking outdoor thrills. The property also prioritizes family needs, featuring essential amenities like a First Aid Kit for peace of mind during your stay. With its commitment to inclusivity and adventure, this accommodation promises a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
  • SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel: Located just 1.6km from Shell Beach, the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel is a 3.5-star gem that caters to adventure seekers, families, and business travelers alike. With stunning ocean views and a range of outdoor activities such as kayaking, sailing, and hiking, guests can easily immerse themselves in the natural beauty of California's coastline. This hotel also provides family-friendly amenities, including a dedicated children's pool, ensuring a fun and safe experience for younger guests. Its blend of comfort and adventure makes it a versatile choice for your vacation.
  • Spyglass Inn: Situated 1.6km from Shell Beach, Spyglass Inn is a charming 3-star motel that welcomes both adventure lovers and pet owners. With direct beach access, guests can indulge in activities like surfing, kayaking, and hiking right at their doorstep. The property’s pet-friendly policy allows furry friends to join your vacation with certain restrictions and fees, ensuring a comfortable stay for all family members. The beachy ambiance combined with a focus on adventure makes Spyglass Inn a delightful retreat for a memorable coastal getaway.

Where to stay near Shell Beach

Shell Beach, a charming neighborhood in Pismo Beach, California, offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Enjoy spectacular sunsets while relaxing on the beach, or take in the scenic beauty of the Pacific Ocean. With nearby attractions that cater to families and couples alike, you'll find perfect spots for recreation and excursions. Whether you’re seeking beach access or a tranquil retreat, Shell Beach promises a delightful vacation filled with memorable moments and natural allure.

  • Pismo Beach: Nestled on California's central coast, Pismo Beach is a charming city renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Being the home of Shell Beach, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like surfing, beachcombing, and exploring the scenic coastal trails. The peak times for travel are from April through June and July, making it a bustling yet enjoyable destination. Pismo Beach is also famous for its iconic pier, where families can gather for a day of fun, dining, and stunning sunset views.
  • Avila Beach: Located just 6.4km from Shell Beach, Avila Beach is a picturesque coastal city that captures the essence of California's beach culture. With its inviting sandy shores and scenic views, it's an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. Avila Beach sees a similar travel pattern with peak arrivals in April and June to July. Popular attractions include a local golf course and luxurious resorts, making it a great place for both relaxation and recreation. The charming atmosphere here, combined with delicious dining options, enhances the overall travel experience.
  • Grover Beach: Also situated 6.4km from Shell Beach, Grover Beach offers a laid-back vibe perfect for a beach getaway. Unlike the other two cities, Grover Beach experiences a more consistent flow of visitors year-round, with peaks in April and June to July. This coastal gem is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring golf courses and beautiful sandy beaches. The family-friendly environment, with nearby attractions like the jetty pier, ensures that visitors of all ages can enjoy their time here, making it a delightful stop on your California adventure.

Things to do near Shell Beach

Shell Beach in Pismo Beach, California, offers a perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring beautiful scenery and a variety of activities. Enjoy nature tours, tee time at local golf courses, and various beach outings. Whether you want to relax by the shore or engage in beach activities, Shell Beach provides a delightful vacation experience for all visitors.

Shopping

For a great shopping experience near Shell Beach, visit the Pismo Beach Premium Outlets, just 4.8km away, offering a variety of brands. Closer at 3.2km, the Pismo Beach Surf Shop is perfect for surf gear. Don’t miss the Downtown SLO Farmers' Market, 14.5km away, for local goods.

Recreation

Experience a round of golf at Avila Beach Golf Resort, just 6.4km from Shell Beach, surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Indulge in rejuvenating treatments at The Spa at Dolphin Bay, only 1.6km away, for ultimate relaxation. For community wellness, visit the Avila Beach Community Center, also 6.4km from Shell Beach.

Adventure

At North Beach Campground, 4.8km from Shell Beach, enjoy family-friendly outdoor adventures like hiking and beachcombing. The Bob Jones City to Sea Bike Trail, located 6.4km away, offers scenic biking paths. Visit Avila Valley Barn, 4.8km from Shell Beach, for farm activities and fresh local produce.

Nightlife

In Shell Beach, the nightlife is vibrant and inviting. The Great American Melodrama & Vaudeville, just 8.0km away, offers a unique blend of romance and culture through lively performances. Nearby, Regal Arroyo Grande cinema provides family-friendly entertainment, making it perfect for a fun night out.

*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 between December and February when prices are lower, and Tuesday is the least expensive day to stay. Use Expedia to find affordable accommodations by filtering for eco-certified hotels and combining bookings for flights and activities. Explore free local attractions and utilize public transport for cost-effective travel. Avoid booking on Saturdays, as they tend to be pricier. Lastly, keep an eye out for last-minute deals and special rates to maximize your savings.

  • 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organize your results by price, displaying the most affordable hotels at the top of your list. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
  • 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 offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it perfect for beach vacations. Visitors can enjoy various attractions such as local beaches, the picturesque Pismo Beach, and charming urban parks. Families and culture enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to explore in this coastal haven, ensuring a memorable experience for all. Don't miss out on the nearby preserves and scenic spots that enhance your stay in this lovely area of California.

  • Pismo Beach Pier: This iconic jetty extends into the ocean, offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy family-friendly excursions, stroll along the scenic boardwalk, and experience the friendly vibes of locals and tourists alike.
  • Avila Hot Springs: A perfect spot for outdoor relaxation, Avila Hot Springs features natural hot springs ideal for soothing your body and mind. The serene environment promotes wellness, making it an excellent retreat for rejuvenation.
  • Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area: Explore expansive dunes with breathtaking scenery. This area is perfect for off-road adventures and offers stunning coastal views, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty of California’s coastline.

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.

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

Traveling to Shell Beach, California, is convenient with nearby airports, notably San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), located 9.7km away. Recommended hotels near SBP include the 4.5-star Hotel San Luis Obispo, just 4.8km from the airport, and the 4-star Inn at the Pier Pismo Beach, 11.3km away. Another option is Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, also 11.3km from SBP. Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX) is 35.4km from Shell Beach, with nearby accommodations like the 5-star Wine Stone Inn, 3.2km from SMX, and the 3.5-star Radisson Hotel Santa Maria, a half mile away. For a more remote option, Santa Ynez Airport (SQA) is 82.1km away, with hotels like Chumash Casino Resort, 1.1km from SQA.

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 28 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.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Shell Beach?
For more information about changing or cancelling your trip to Shell Beach, go to https://www.expedia.com/service/.
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.