Photo by Ann Sair

Hotels in Shell Beach

Start date: Check-in selected.
To Date
End date: Check-out
  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Guest rating
Guest rating
Star rating

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, (451)
"Love this place!"
United States
Lycenia
Shell Beach Inn

The Palomar Inn

The Palomar Inn
2.0 star property
Shell Beach
7.4 out of 10, Good, (583)
"For me and my family we enjoyed our stay at The Palomar Inn the staff was polite and the area is a beautiful place and very clean thank you."
United States
Roberto
The price is S$114
includes taxes & fees
21 Dec - 22 Dec
The Palomar Inn

The Tides Oceanview Inn and Cottages

The Tides Oceanview Inn and Cottages
3.0 star property
2.3 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (149)
"Simple and cute, great location to bars and restaurants "
United States
Kayleigh
The price is S$146
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan, 2026
The Tides Oceanview Inn and Cottages

Pismo Lighthouse Suites

Pismo Lighthouse Suites
3.0 star property
2.1 km from Shell Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1000)
"Had a great time, beautifull views"
United States
Deysi
The price is S$280
includes taxes & fees
5 Jan - 6 Jan, 2026
Pismo Lighthouse Suites

Studio 6 San Luis Obispo, Ca

Studio 6 San Luis Obispo, Ca
2.0 star property
9.8 km from Shell Beach
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (99)
"Staff was friendly, room was clean and loved that it had a mini kitchen. Close to many stores, restaurants and they allow pets. I would definitely stay here again. "
United States
Maria
The price is S$125
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan, 2026
Studio 6 San Luis Obispo, Ca

Beach House Inn & Suites

Beach House Inn & Suites
3.0 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3.1 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (493)
"Absolutely amazing place, i definitely recommend this!"
United States
Davonte
Beach House Inn & Suites

Vagabond Inn San Luis Obispo

Vagabond Inn San Luis Obispo
2.0 star property
12.1 km from Shell Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1185)
"Clean and friendly staff "
United States
Carlos
The price is S$102
includes taxes & fees
1 Jan - 2 Jan, 2026
Vagabond Inn San Luis Obispo

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, (162)
"Room was clean, Bed was comfortable"
United States
Shawn
The price is S$225
includes taxes & fees
11 Jan - 12 Jan, 2026
Pismo Beach Club

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, (962)
"Great place to stay "
United States
Mary
The price is S$283
includes taxes & fees
7 Jan - 8 Jan, 2026
SeaVenture Beach Hotel

Dolphin Cove Motel

Dolphin Cove Motel
2.0 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3.1 km from Shell Beach
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1003)
"Reasonably priced. Clean. Great beach access. Helpful staff"
United States
Ellen
The price is S$186
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan, 2026
Dolphin Cove Motel

Shore Cliff Hotel

Shore Cliff Hotel
3.0 star property
1.9 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1530)
"Staff was great and location was perfect if you are going to Pismo. Rooms were clean and great view. "
United States
Alma
Shore Cliff Hotel

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
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1000)
"Clean room and great staff."
United States
Alejandro
The price is S$254
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan, 2026
Inn at the Pier Pismo Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton

Granada Hotel & Bistro

Granada Hotel & Bistro
4.0 star property
13.9 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (804)
"Staff and room! Great stay"
United States
James
The price is S$222
includes taxes & fees
14 Jan - 15 Jan, 2026
Granada Hotel & Bistro

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, (1000)
"Great stay"
United States
Ruben
The price is S$152
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan, 2026
Hilton Garden Inn San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach

Motel 6 San Luis Obispo, CA - South

Motel 6 San Luis Obispo, CA - South
2.0 star property
9.8 km from Shell Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1029)
"Super pet-friendly!"
United States
Nikki
The price is S$112
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan, 2026
Motel 6 San Luis Obispo, CA - South

Ocean Palms Motel

Ocean Palms Motel
2.5 star property
Downtown Pismo Beach, 3.6 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1001)
"Room was clean - they are above average as far as motels go."
United States
Pei
The price is S$111
includes taxes & fees
21 Dec - 22 Dec
Ocean Palms Motel

Dune Surfer Inn

Dune Surfer Inn
2.0 star property
7 km from Shell Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (166)
"Great location, great room, and great staff"
United States
Dania
Dune Surfer Inn

SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel
3.5 star property
2.2 km from Shell Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1609)
"Amenities are excellent Beach access and pools are very good. Friendly staff."
United States
SRIKANTH
The price is S$221
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan, 2026
SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

Inn at the Cove

Inn at the Cove
3.5 star property
1.1 km from Shell Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1719)
"Great location "
United Kingdom
Matthew
The price is S$235
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan, 2026
Inn at the Cove

Hotel San Luis Obispo

Hotel San Luis Obispo
4.5 star property
14.1 km from Shell Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (549)
"Great space, friendly staff and good restaurants - we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. "
United States
michelle
The price is S$511
includes taxes & fees
23 Dec - 24 Dec
Hotel San Luis Obispo
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 Beach Pier and Pismo State Beach 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 Pismo Beach Pier and Price Anniversary House.

Sunset Palisades

While Sunset Palisades isn't home to many top sights, Avila Hot Springs and Pirates Cove are some notable places to visit nearby.

855634304

If you're spending some time in 855634304, Pismo Beach Premium Outlets and Yang Sheng Foot Spa 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 Pismo Beach Pier.

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 beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, visitors can engage in beach sports and explore local reserves.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Shell Beach offers a variety of experiences suitable for families, making it a great holiday destination.
  • Charming Downtown Area: Explore delightful shops and eateries in the inviting downtown of Pismo Beach.
  • Exceptional Accommodations: Choose from a range of lodging options, including renowned hotels for a perfect coastal getaway.

Find great hotels near Shell Beach

Discover the charm of Shell Beach with a variety of exceptional lodging options, from resorts to hotels, designed to cater to every traveller's desires. Whether you're seeking a family vacation, beach adventures, or simply a tranquil retreat, Shell Beach hotels offer the ideal base for your California getaway. Explore the top-rated accommodations, including the renowned Shore Cliff Hotel, and experience the best of coastal living in this delightful seaside destination.

  • Oxford Suites Pismo Beach: Nestled 4.8km from Shell Beach, Oxford Suites Pismo Beach is an inviting motel that caters to families and adventure seekers alike. With a plethora of adventure sports available nearby, including windsurfing, sailing, and mountain biking, guests can indulge in exhilarating outdoor activities. The property is also pet-friendly, allowing for furry companions with a waived fee for service animals. Families will appreciate the children's amenities, including essential first aid supplies, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay for all.
  • SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel: Located merely 1.6km from Shell Beach, the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel boasts a family-friendly and business-oriented atmosphere with a 3.5-star rating. This hotel offers impressive facilities for business travellers, including accessible meeting rooms and a fully equipped business centre available 24 hours. Guests can partake in various adventure sports such as kayaking and surfing. The property also features a children's pool, making it a perfect destination for families wishing to combine work with leisure.
  • Edgewater Inn And Suites: Situated 3.2km from Shell Beach, Edgewater Inn And Suites presents a unique blend of business accommodation and LGBTQIA-friendly hospitality. This motel is distinguished by its proximity to natural hot springs, providing a serene escape for those seeking relaxation. It also offers essential business facilities, including meeting rooms, making it suitable for business travellers. With its welcoming nature and tranquil amenities, guests can expect a refreshing experience during their stay.

Where to stay near Shell Beach

Shell Beach offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and stunning coastal scenery, perfect for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly holiday. Explore the charming downtown area, relax on the beautiful beaches with ocean views, and enjoy easy beach access for leisurely excursions. With its inviting atmosphere and nearby attractions, Shell Beach promises a memorable experience for all types of travellers seeking relaxation and recreation.

  • Pismo Beach: A charming coastal city, Pismo Beach is home to Shell Beach and offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and a relaxed beach atmosphere. The city experiences a seasonal influx of visitors, particularly peaking from April to July, making it an ideal time to enjoy its beautiful beaches and recreational areas. Visitors can indulge in spa treatments, explore family-friendly beaches, or take a leisurely stroll along the jetty pier. Pismo Beach is renowned for its scenic vistas, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.
  • Avila Beach: Located a mere 6.4km from Shell Beach, Avila Beach is a picturesque coastal town known for its serene atmosphere and welcoming community. Like Pismo Beach, it sees a seasonal rise in tourist numbers, particularly during the spring and summer months. Avila Beach is famous for its inviting beaches, golf courses, and proximity to a national state park, offering numerous outdoor activities. Visitors can unwind at local spas or engage in recreational pursuits, all while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery that makes this area a hidden gem.
  • Downtown Pismo Beach: Just 3.2km from Shell Beach, Downtown Pismo Beach is a vibrant neighbourhood that pulsates with activity year-round. While it experiences peak visits from June to August, it remains a popular destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This area is home to various golf courses and educational venues, as well as close access to family-friendly beaches and the iconic jetty pier. Downtown Pismo Beach offers a lively atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for dining, shopping, and soaking up the sun.

Things to do near Shell Beach

Shell Beach is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a scenic beach getaway. Visitors can indulge in various activities, including beach sports, lively beach shows, and recreational pursuits. Additionally, nearby spas offer relaxing body treatments, making it a perfect destination for both adventure and relaxation.

Shopping

Three miles from Shell Beach, the Pismo Beach Premium Outlets offers a vibrant shopping experience with a variety of stores. Two miles away, the Pismo Beach Surf Shop is perfect for surf-related gifts. For fresh produce and local crafts, visit the Downtown SLO Farmers' Market, located nine miles from Shell Beach.

Recreation

Yang Sheng Foot Spa offers a tranquil body treatment experience, perfect for relaxation, located 4.8km from Shell Beach. The Avila Beach Golf Resort provides an invigorating outdoor atmosphere for golf enthusiasts, while the Avila Beach Community Center fosters wellness and relaxation just 6.4km away.

Adventure

Mustang Waterpark offers thrilling water slides and family-friendly attractions, ensuring a delightful day filled with splashes and fun, located 19.3km from Shell Beach. North Beach Campground, situated 4.8km away, invites outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy camping amidst nature, perfect for family adventures. Avila Valley Barn, also 4.8km distant, provides charming activities like fruit picking and farm tours.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Shell Beach offers delightful options for entertainment. Enjoy a captivating performance at The Great American Melodrama & Vaudeville, where culture and romance blend seamlessly. Alternatively, catch a film at Regal Arroyo Grande, perfect for a cosy evening filled with entertainment and charm.

*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. Book your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates, and avoid Saturdays, which are the most expensive. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to compare prices, filter for eco-friendly options, and consider package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Lastly, explore free activities in the area, and rely on affordable public transport to get around easily while keeping your costs down.

  • 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, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay at Shell Beach with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Shell Beach

Shell Beach, nestled in Pismo Beach, California, is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking stunning scenery and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, enjoy breathtaking sea views, and discover local reserves and urban parks. With its inviting atmosphere, Shell Beach offers the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure, making it a fantastic destination for travellers looking to unwind and connect with nature.

  • Avila Hot Springs: Nestled 3.2km from Shell Beach, Avila Hot Springs offers a serene retreat with its natural hot springs. Enjoy wellness and relaxation amidst outdoor vibes, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
  • Pismo Beach Pier: Located 3.2km away, Pismo Beach Pier is a lively jetty where families can enjoy excursions and the friendly atmosphere. Stroll along the pier, take in the ocean views, and savour local seafood at nearby eateries.
  • Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area: Just 6.4km from Shell Beach, this stunning dune area boasts breathtaking scenery. Ideal for off-road adventures, you can explore the rugged landscape and appreciate the coastal beauty.

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

Accessing Shell Beach is convenient with three major airports nearby. Santa Ynez, CA (SQA) is situated 82.1km away, with excellent accommodations such as Hotel Corque, a 4-star hotel 6.4km from the airport, and the 4-star Chumash Casino Resort, located 1.1km away. San Luis Obispo, CA (SBP) is only 9.7km from Shell Beach, offering top-notch options like the 4.5-star Hotel San Luis Obispo and HOTEL CERRO, both 4.8km from the airport. Lastly, Santa Maria, CA (SMX) is 35.4km from Shell Beach, featuring the luxurious 5-star Wine Stone Inn, 3.2km from the airport. Each location provides accessible transportation services to Shell Beach.

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?
Expedia customers rank The Palomar Inn the highest for a stay in Shell Beach.
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 28 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 Margo Dodd Park and Dinosaur Caves 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 Pier are also worth a visit when you're out sightseeing in Pismo Beach.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia