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, (556 reviews)
"The property was very nice with a heated pool. The location was very convenient."
United States
Heather
The price is AED 526
AED 602 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Sep - 25 Sep
Shell Beach Inn

2. The Palomar Inn

The Palomar Inn
2.0 star property
Shell Beach
7.4 out of 10, Good, (683 reviews)
"this place is tiny but affordable and awesome for Shell Beach. a good place to crash for night along the way."
United States
Michael
The price is AED 257
AED 294 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Oct - 7 Oct
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, (1,747 reviews)
"Beautiful property, nice breakfast, nice staff"
United States
Keisha
The price is AED 875
AED 1,004 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sep - 28 Sep
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, (1,875 reviews)
"Great place to stay."
United States
David
The price is AED 531
AED 609 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Oct - 5 Oct
Spyglass Inn

5. Pacific Point Resort

Pacific Point Resort
3.0 star property
1.9 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,326 reviews)
"Room was clean and the staff was very friendly."
United States
Sergio
The price is AED 585
AED 822 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Sep - 1 Oct
Pacific Point Resort

6. SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel
3.5 star property
2.2 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,883 reviews)
"Great place to stay and relax."
United States
Anesh
The price is AED 774
AED 888 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

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, (2,146 reviews)
"It was Great stay!"
United States
Aida
The price is AED 393
AED 493 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sep - 28 Sep
Oxford Suites Pismo Beach

8. 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, (3,242 reviews)
"Excellent place to stay"
United States
Juliana
The price is AED 475
AED 544 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sep - 28 Sep
Edgewater Inn And Suites

9. Inn at the Pier Pismo Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton

Inn at the Pier Pismo Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3.3 km from Shell Beach
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"This place was amazing clean room the staff was very helpful the ocean view was spectacular we will be coming back to this hotel"
United States
Frank
The price is AED 740
AED 849 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Inn at the Pier Pismo Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton

10. 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, (1,470 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Jennie
The price is AED 360
AED 409 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Sep - 30 Sep
Best Western Casa Grande Inn

11. 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, (318 reviews)
"Loved how close it was to the beach!"
United States
Arpi
The price is AED 475
AED 545 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
The Tides Oceanview Inn and Cottages

12. 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, (1,003 reviews)
"This is our 2nd time staying here. I love the location and the hotel. Only downfall was on this trip the pool wasn't working when we were there, but overall still love it here"
United States
Joyce
The price is AED 459
AED 522 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sep - 28 Sep
Holiday Inn Express Grover Beach-Pismo Beach Area by IHG

13. 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, (1,000 reviews)
"Will stay here again"
United States
Nicole
The price is AED 403
AED 458 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Sep - 1 Oct
Hampton Inn & Suites Arroyo Grande/Pismo Beach Area, CA

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, (1,441 reviews)
"Everything about this place was spot on, loved our overnight stay the beach and fire pits were great!!"
United States
Koula
The price is AED 559
AED 641 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Oct - 5 Oct
Cottage Inn By The Sea

15. SeaVenture Beach Hotel

SeaVenture Beach Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3.5 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"great stay ! Couples get away for sure ! No kids, and the hot tub is definitely a vibe, you can hear the waves at night ."
United States
Andres
The price is AED 813
AED 1,059 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sep - 28 Sep
SeaVenture Beach Hotel

16. 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, (1,007 reviews)
"Excellent staff, clean and comfy rooms, and a great location"
United States
JEREMY
The price is AED 563
AED 640 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Sep - 25 Sep
The Agrarian Hotel, BW Signature Collection

17. Dolphin Cove Motel

Dolphin Cove Motel
2.0 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3.2 km from Shell Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,004 reviews)
"Lovely hotel"
United States
Rena
The price is AED 465
AED 575 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Sep - 25 Sep
Dolphin Cove Motel

18. Pismo Beach Club

Pismo Beach Club
3.0 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3.3 km from Shell Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (319 reviews)
"Great location, comfortable room."
United States
James
The price is AED 519
AED 595 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Pismo Beach Club

19. Avila Village Inn

Avila Village Inn
3.5 star property
5.9 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Love coming back to this place"
United States
Adam
The price is AED 598
AED 798 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Avila Village Inn

20. 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, (1,000 reviews)
"Nice!"
United States
Anthony
The price is AED 494
AED 566 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Oct - 6 Oct
Hilton Garden Inn San Luis Obispo/Pismo 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 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 Price Anniversary House and Pismo Beach Premium Outlets.

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.