Dolphin Cove Motel

2.0 star property

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Dolphin Cove Motel

A beachside patio with tables and chairs, overlooking the ocean and hills.
Creator video
A room with a view of the beach, a door, and a ceiling fan.
A hotel room with a large bed, a dark wooden headboard, white pillows, a plaid bedspread, and bedside lamps.
A building with a sign reading "Dolphin Cove Lodge".

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Housekeeping

Explore the area

View in a map
170 Main Street, Pismo Beach, CA, 93449-2629
  • Place, Pismo Beach Pier
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Pismo State Beach
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Pismo Beach Surf Shop
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Luis Obispo, CA (SBP-San Luis Obispo County Regional)
    ‪16 min drive‬

Room options

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(19 reviews)
  • Beach view
  • 120 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

Suite, 2 Bedrooms

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(11 reviews)
  • Ocean view
  • 250 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(26 reviews)
  • Ocean view
  • 100 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed

8.2 out of 10
Very good
(66 reviews)
  • Ocean view
  • 100 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

Oceanfront Suite, 1 Queen Bed with Sofabed

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(6 reviews)
  • 250 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed
  • Free WiFi

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Accessible

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(7 reviews)
  • 120 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

Standard Suite, 2 Bedrooms, Partial Ocean View

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(7 reviews)
  • 3239 sq ft
  • Sleeps 6
  • 3 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

King Room - Non-Smoking

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

Queen Room - Non-Smoking

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

Two-Bedroom Suite

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

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About the neighborhood

Pismo Beach

Located in Downtown Pismo Beach, Dolphin Cove Motel is adjacent to Pismo Beach Pier and within a 5-minute walk of other popular sights like Pismo State Beach. The 21 rooms at this motel include refrigerators, coffee makers, and TVs.

What's nearby

  • Pismo Beach Pier - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Pismo State Beach - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Pismo Beach Surf Shop - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Pismo Beach Premium Outlets - 16 min walk - 0.9 miles
  • Monarch Butterfly Grove - 3 min drive - 2.3 miles

Getting around

  • Grover Beach Station - 9 min drive
  • San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) - 19 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Old West Cinnamon Rolls - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪7-Eleven - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Wooly's - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Splash Café Pismo Beach - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Pequin Coastal Cocina - ‬5 min walk

About this property

Dolphin Cove Motel

Guests staying at Dolphin Cove Motel enjoy free WiFi in public areas, a terrace, and a picnic area. You can take advantage of free parking if you drive. The front desk has multilingual staff that can answer questions about the accommodations, services, and more. Other amenities at this beach motel include barbecue grills and a garden.
32-inch TVs come with cable channels, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Bathrooms offer free toiletries, and pillowtop beds with premium bedding ensure a restful night. Other standard amenities include refrigerators, coffee makers, and ceiling fans. Housekeeping is available on request.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available
  • Onsite parking includes off-street options

Food and drink

  • Snack bar/deli

Family friendly

  • In-room refrigerator
  • Microwave on request
  • Snack bar/deli

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • On the beach
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Grab bar near toilet
  • Raised toilet seat
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

More

  • Built in 1938
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Pillowtop mattress
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 32-inch TV with premium cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave on request
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Ceiling fan
  • Electrical adapters
  • Heating

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 9:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
The front desk is open daily from 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours), key retrieval

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 25 per stay

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Breakage deposit: USD 100.00 per stay

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 25 per stay

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

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
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a security system
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM—-9:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. 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.
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a security system.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.

Property is also known as

Dolphin Cove Motel Pismo Beach
Dolphin Cove Motel
Dolphin Cove Pismo Beach
Dolphin Cove Hotel Pismo Beach
Dolphin Cove Motel Motel
Dolphin Cove Motel Pismo Beach
Dolphin Cove Motel Motel Pismo Beach

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Dolphin Cove Motel?

Dolphin Cove Motel provides free cancellation on some room rates. If you'd like to learn more, look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at Dolphin Cove Motel?

As of Aug 10, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Dolphin Cove Motel on Sep 7, 2026 start from $182, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to do within easy reach of Dolphin Cove Motel?

This motel is situated in Downtown Pismo Beach, just steps from Pismo State Beach, and within a 10-minute walk of Pismo Beach Surf Shop and Sans Liege Wines. You'll also find Pismo Preserve and Tastes of the Valleys Wine Bar & Shop less than a mile away.

Will I be able to park at Dolphin Cove Motel?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the motel. Wheelchair-accessible van parking is also available for guests.

Does Dolphin Cove Motel have a casino on the premises?

No, Dolphin Cove Motel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Dolphin Cove Motel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this motel.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Dolphin Cove Motel?

At this beachfront motel, amenities that appeal to couples include premium bedding, an ocean view in some guestrooms, as well as a terrace.

Does Dolphin Cove Motel have a hot tub?

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

Does Dolphin Cove Motel have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

No, Dolphin Cove Motel doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will Dolphin Cove Motel allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Dolphin Cove Motel though service animals are welcome.

Does Dolphin Cove Motel have connecting rooms available?

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

How far is the airport from Dolphin Cove Motel?

The closest major airport to Dolphin Cove Motel is San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), which is 8.8 mi away (19 minutes by car). Another top airport is Santa Maria, CA (SMX-Santa Maria Public), which is located 25.6 mi away (33-minute drive).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Dolphin Cove Motel?

Yes, some guestrooms at Dolphin Cove Motel offer a patio and may feature ocean views.

Dolphin Cove Motel Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 595 out of 1013 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 255 out of 1013 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 82 out of 1013 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 40 out of 1013 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 41 out of 1013 reviews

8.8/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Staff & service

8.0/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Laura

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was the perfect location for our family vacation! Highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Richard

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place right by the pier
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Monica

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great location to the boardwalk and restaurants
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Cristina Lee

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Perfect location, very clean, very quiet
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Dave

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great rooms and views. Staff was very helpful
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sergio

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Gloria

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
great location, clean
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

laci

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything here is amazing 🤗 The staff, the hotel, the spot ♥️💯 Can’t do any better Always my favorite place
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Rachel

Staff was nice room was good
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Satenig

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Parking was secure with cameras on the property. The property was right in the beach so that’s a huge plus.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Friendly staff, good price, on the beach
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

oscar

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
The room was clean and the bed was really comfortable. The location was great, close to the pier and many shops and restaurants
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

DAN

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Super nice room with a great view of the beach/ocean. Bed was super comfortable with plush pillows. Shower was a bit on the small size for me, but had a great shower head, and was nicely tiled. Easy walking distance to shops/restaurants. Will stay here again!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

francine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was a perfect spot for our stay in Pismo. My family will now only stay at Dolphin Cove when visiting Pismo. It is so close to the beach, you can hear the waves of the ocean while falling asleep, and the sound again at the rise of the sun. The manager, Michael is also very kind and professional. My daughter left some items there and he actually held them for us. We had overall wonderful stay there and we will surely be back for our next family mini vacay.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Mai Yia

Liked: Staff & service
I love the fact that the room is renovated. I love being able to walk out into the beach. I didn’t appreciate the loud noise coming from upstairs.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Sandra

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Staff was friendly. Location was great walking distance to the ocean and several restaurants. Got a free upgrade and able to select which floor we preferred.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Vivian

Clean room
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Olena

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Really fantastic find! Best location for the beach goers and surfers. Brilliant for families, as we had a two bedrooms and a sofa, spacious bathroom and all that's needed included. The host is very helpful and welcoming! Gave us some great tips on location, food, things to do and genuinely lovely person. Would happily come back to Dolphin Cave Motel and highly recommend it to anyone.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Corinda

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Cute, small and simple.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Amy

Clean room; perfect location and view
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Naimah L

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful location next to the beach, pier, and restaurants. The beds were comfortable, and there were ample towels and blankets. The owner was also very friendly and accommodating. 10/10 Recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ellen

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
room was clean, staff was very helpful, location to pier was perfect
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jason

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Room was clean, staff was helpful, location was perfect
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Thomas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is an older hotel with small rooms that are beautifully taken care of. They are very clean and in great shape. Even the parking lot is cleaned daily. You are a 10 second walk from the pier and beach. The staff is very nice and will accommodate you if possible.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Gerardo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Overall was good
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026