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Shell Beach Inn

2.0 star property
Hotel in Pismo Beach with free parking

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Photo gallery for Shell Beach Inn

Outdoor pool, sun loungers
Room 9 - King Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board
Room 9 - King Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board
Room 11 - King One Bedroom Suite | Living area | 40-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels, TV
Room 11 - King One Bedroom Suite | Private kitchen | Mini-fridge, microwave, coffee/tea maker

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping

Explore the area

View in a map
653 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach, CA, 93449
  • Place, Margo Dodd Park
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Pismo Preserve
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Dinosaur Caves Park
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Luis Obispo, CA (SBP-San Luis Obispo County Regional)
    ‪14 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Room 1 - Queen & Double Room

Room 1 - Queen & Double Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

Room 1 - Queen & Double Room

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(5 reviews)
  • 225 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Room 2 - King Room

Room 2 - King Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

Room 2 - King Room

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(11 reviews)
  • 225 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room 6 - Queen & Double Room

Room 6 - Queen & Double Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

Room 6 - Queen & Double Room

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(10 reviews)
  • 220 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Room 7 Queen/Queen

Room 7 Queen/Queen | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

Room 7 Queen/Queen

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(7 reviews)
  • 220 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Room 3 - King Room

Room 3 - King Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

Room 3 - King Room

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(10 reviews)
  • 225 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room 9 - King Room

Room 9 - King Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

Room 9 - King Room

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(9 reviews)
  • 225 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room 8 - Double / Double Room

Room 8 - Double / Double Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

Room 8 - Double / Double Room

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(7 reviews)
  • 195 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Room 5 - Queen Room

Room 5 - Queen Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

Room 5 - Queen Room

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • 210 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Room 4 - Queen Room

Room 4 - Queen Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

Room 4 - Queen Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(11 reviews)
  • 210 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Room 11 - King One Bedroom Suite

Room 11 - King One Bedroom Suite | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

Room 11 - King One Bedroom Suite

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • 775 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed
  • Mountain view

About the neighborhood

Pismo Beach

Located in Shell Beach within a 5-minute walk of Margo Dodd Park, Shell Beach Inn is within a 15-minute stroll of Dinosaur Caves Park. This 10-room hotel welcomes guests with conveniences like an outdoor pool, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • Margo Dodd Park - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Pismo Preserve - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Dinosaur Caves Park - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Eldwayen Ocean Park - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • The Spa at Dolphin Bay - 2 min drive - 1.6 miles

Getting around

  • Grover Beach Station - 12 min drive
  • San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) - 17 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Old West Cinnamon Rolls - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Wooly's - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Splash Café Pismo Beach - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Giuseppe's Cucina Italiana - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Blast & Brew - ‬2 min drive

About this property

Shell Beach Inn

Hotel in Pismo Beach with free parking
Guests of Shell Beach Inn enjoy features like an outdoor pool, free WiFi in public areas, and express check-in. Free parking is included with your stay. Front-desk staff can help with concierge services, and provide local restaurant recommendations. This hotel also has express check-out.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 40-inch flat-screen TVs with cable channels. Microwaves, coffee makers, and ceiling fans are other standard amenities. Change of towels is available on request.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include an outdoor pool.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 25+ Mbps
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free uncovered self parking on site

Things to do

  • Outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • Mini-fridge
  • Outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk

Guest services

  • Change of towels on request
  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (daily)

Outdoors

  • Pool loungers

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator (single-level property)
  • Well-lit path to entrance

More

  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 40-inch flat-screen TV with premium cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Free bottled water
  • Microwave
  • Mini-fridge

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Heating
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: midnight
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 6:30 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours), smart lock

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM—-midnight
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours, and checking in and out are easy with express services. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Shell Beach Inn?

Shell Beach Inn offers free cancellation on some room rates. For specific requirements, review the cancellation policy on our site.

What's there to see around Shell Beach Inn?

This hotel is situated in Shell Beach within a 10-minute walk of Dinosaur Caves Park and Margo Dodd Park. You'll also find Avila Hot Springs and The Spa at Dolphin Bay within a short drive.

Is there parking available at Shell Beach Inn?

Yes, uncovered self parking is offered for free at the hotel.

Does Shell Beach Inn include a casino?

No, Shell Beach Inn doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Shell Beach Inn?

No, this hotel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Shell Beach Inn?

Couples staying at this hotel will appreciate amenities like an outdoor pool plus some guestrooms include kitchens and mountain views.

Are there hot tubs at Shell Beach Inn?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Shell Beach Inn have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

No, Shell Beach Inn doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does Shell Beach Inn allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Shell Beach Inn though service animals are welcome.

Are there connecting rooms at Shell Beach Inn?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

How close is the airport from Shell Beach Inn?

The closest major airport to Shell Beach Inn is San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), which is 10.4 mi away (17 minutes by car). Another top airport is Santa Maria, CA (SMX-Santa Maria Public), which is located 27.3 mi away (32-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies at Shell Beach Inn?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Shell Beach Inn.

Shell Beach Inn Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 379 out of 459 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 56 out of 459 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 15 out of 459 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 5 out of 459 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 4 out of 459 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Rod

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Comfy beds and great location
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Berenice

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lori, who checked us in, was incredibly kind and welcoming. She went above and beyond to ensure everything was in order, even taking the time to make sure our room keys worked properly upon check-in. Her excellent customer service made a great first impression.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Victormichael

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful room. Walking distance to everything.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carol

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The room I was in was very comfortable!! There was a refrigerator, coffee maker you know the normal amenities but there was added touches for instance the little glass jar of candies/mints, big porcelain coffee cups and glasses for water/ drinks. They also put a small ice chest full of ice in your room. The coolest thing of all was the sticky note pad holder with pen by the door exiting your room. I enjoyed the decor it felt homey.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bryan

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We really enjoyed our stay at Shell Beach Inn. It's the perfect distance between Pismo and Avila Beaches and has easy access to many restaurants and a little store. The room was simple but had everything we needed to enjoy the beach. The pool was warm enough that we could use it and my kids enjoyed it a lot.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Annette

Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort
Disliked: Staff & service
Charming.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rod

Traveled with family
We stayed in unit #9. The bed was comfortable but lopsided. Felt I was going to roll off. But I love this hotel and everything else was excellent
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Emily

Traveled with family
Beds were very comfortable
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Salvador

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Katrina

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Room was cozy, clean & comfortable. Small rooms perfect for an overnight stay. staff was helpful but has limited hours . Easy walk to beach & some restaurants . Short drive to downtown .
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Monica

Great
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jill

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Nice motel, the lady at check-in was the best!! Everything you need near by!!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jill

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michelle

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great room! Great location.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Good location ,,really comfy bed ,nice little pool and seating area ,good communication from owner on how to get room key on phone as i was ariving later in the evening, nice little shop next door ,loved the old fashioned neon motel sign would stay again
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

tom

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marianne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bobbie

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Froncal, Shell Beach

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was so comfortable and l felt like l was at home. The area is nice and quiet and the beach was just down the street. The staff is friendly and welcoming.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Patricia M

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Nice room with a library!

Cute little inn in Pismo Beach with a wonderful pool! Very clean, comfortable, quiet...and my room even had a library in it! I added a good book I had just finished to the library!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nivea

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was such afreat place. Lovely people. Maria was so sweet and radiated such a positive light. Lori/Laurie was so awesome. Loved her energy. Tje place was clean and the pool was great. Perfect location. So good i reserved 2 more stays before even checking out! Thanks Shell Beach Inn
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sheryl

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erik

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great stay.

We loved our stay at Shell Beach Inn. Next time we'll stay longer for sure. Thanks again Lori.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Robbi

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Amenities
Too noisy. Could not sleep at night.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ethel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Happy travelers

Pismo Beach has always been our choice when visiting Santa Barbara and the central California coastal areas. The hotel is a remodeled motel. The management took extra care to add a number of upscale amenities to make their guests comfortable. The rooms were small but well equipped and thoughtfully decorated. Quiet and convenient.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025