🏨 Spyglass Inn
Hotel in Pismo Beach, CA 93449
Based on 1,600+ reviews from Google, TripAdvisor, Booking.com, Yelp • Verified December 04, 2025
Overview
Spyglass Inn provides budget-friendly beachfront lodging on Pismo’s Shell Beach Road, delivering ocean views and beach access at prices well below neighboring resort properties. This no-frills motel attracts surfers, families watching budgets, and travelers who prioritize location over amenities. Rooms are basic—clean but dated—with many offering ocean views from balconies.The property’s appeal is straightforward: beachfront location at non-resort pricing. Don’t expect spa services, fine dining, or luxury fixtures. What you get is a clean room steps from the beach, free parking, and substantial nightly rate savings compared to upscale neighbors. The pool is small and basic. Continental breakfast is included (coffee, pastries, fruit—standard motel fare). Ocean view rooms cost slightly more but deliver unobstructed Pacific vistas worth the upcharge.Located on Shell Beach’s coast, you’re about 1.5 miles from Pismo Pier and downtown—walkable for energetic travelers but most will drive. The immediate area is quieter than central Pismo, appealing to those seeking beach access without pier-area crowds. Shell Beach tide pools and coastal walks are nearby. Parking is free and plentiful, a significant advantage over downtown properties.Pricing is budget-friendly for beachfront, typically $100-180 per night. This represents 30-50% savings versus luxury oceanfront properties while maintaining beach proximity. You’re sacrificing updated décor, extensive amenities, and resort atmosphere for significant cost savings. Rooms show age but remain functional and clean. Pet-friendly rooms available. Best for budget-conscious travelers wanting beachfront access, surfers seeking convenient dawn patrol access, families willing to trade luxury for savings, and visitors who spend days exploring rather than lounging in rooms.
Best for: couples, pet owners, ocean view seekers, romantic getaways
Known for: oceanfront fire pits, spectacular ocean views, heated pool and spa, dog-friendly amenities, on-site restaurant
Rooms & Suites
Spyglass Inn features 82 modest guest rooms in its beachfront motel property, offering basic accommodations with ocean views at budget-friendly rates. Standard rooms include two double beds or one king, with oceanfront rooms adding private balconies and unobstructed Pacific views worth the small upcharge. The property’s straightforward room configurations focus on clean beds and beach proximity over luxury amenities or extensive in-room features. Rooms show age in décor and fixtures but remain functional and well-maintained, appealing to budget-conscious travelers prioritizing location over updated finishes.
Amenities & Services
Location & Access
Spyglass Inn sits at 2705 Spyglass Drive on Shell Beach’s coast, positioned about 1.5 miles north of Pismo Beach’s downtown pier and main commercial district. The beachfront location provides ocean access and coastal views, but you’ll drive rather than walk to Pismo’s restaurant scene and pier attractions—the 25-30 minute walk isn’t practical for most visitors. The property offers free plentiful parking without the constraints of downtown hotels. Shell Beach tide pools and coastal trails are nearby for walks, but plan on 5-minute drives to downtown Pismo dining and pier access. This setting appeals to budget travelers wanting beachfront access while accepting the need to drive to restaurants and downtown attractions.
Policies & Logistics
Check-In & Check-Out
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM and check-out is at 11:00 AM. Early check-in and late check-out may be available upon request based on availability.
Tips for Your Best Stay
💡 Ocean view rooms at budget motel prices—request upper floors and you’ve got beachfront vistas for way less than the fancy places.
💡 Shell Beach side is way quieter than downtown Pismo. Perfect if you value peace over walking to bars and restaurants.
💡 Splash Cafe is worth the 1.5 mile drive. Famous clam chowder, short trip, totally worth it.
💡 Continental breakfast is included but pretty bare bones. Supplement with groceries if you want actual food in the morning.
💡 Free parking is everywhere—rare perk for a beachfront place. No parking stress even during busy summer weekends.
Pricing & Availability
Average Nightly Rate: $128-275
What Guests Are Saying
Guests love the oceanfront fire pits and spectacular views from Shell Beach. The pet-friendly policy, heated pool and spa, and great location near restaurants earn consistent praise.
Top Mentions
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Frequently Asked Questions
How close is the Spyglass Inn to the beach?
The Spyglass Inn is located right on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with direct access to the beach. Guests can enjoy stunning oceanfront views and easy access to walk along the sand and explore the beautiful coastline.
Does the Spyglass Inn have fire pits?
Yes, the Spyglass Inn is known for its oceanfront fire pits that create a cozy and romantic ambiance. Guests can gather around the fire pits in the evenings to enjoy the breathtaking ocean views and the soothing sound of the waves.
Are there any special room types at the Spyglass Inn?
The Spyglass Inn offers a few signature suite options, including rooms with fireplaces and private terraces. These rooms provide an extra level of comfort and luxury, with unobstructed ocean views and private outdoor spaces to take in the stunning scenery.
Is the Spyglass Inn pet-friendly?
Yes, the Spyglass Inn welcomes pets in select rooms for an additional fee. Guests traveling with their furry companions can enjoy the hotel’s pet-friendly amenities and the opportunity to explore the beautiful coastal area together.
What is the best time of year to visit the Spyglass Inn?
The Spyglass Inn is a great destination year-round, but many guests find the spring and fall shoulder seasons to be particularly enjoyable. During these times, the weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and the hotel’s oceanfront fire pits create a cozy and romantic atmosphere.
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