Hotels in Avila Beach

Avila Beach: Where Coastal Serenity Meets Vibrant Shores

Nestled along California’s Central Coast, Avila Beach is a hidden gem that combines stunning ocean views with a charming beach vibe. This coastal getaway offers pristine sandy shores, perfect for sunbathing and beachcombing, alongside the iconic Avila Beach Pier. Explore the scenic Avila Valley, hike the nearby trails, or indulge in the rejuvenating waters of Avila Hot Springs. With its laid-back atmosphere, local eateries, and breathtaking sunsets, Avila Beach invites travelers to relax and savor the beauty of the California coast, making it an ideal destination for couples and families alike.

Discover great hotels in Avila Beach

Avila Beach offers a range of hotel accommodations, from charming inns to beautiful oceanfront hotels. Guests can enjoy stunning views, cozy atmospheres, and easy access to the beach, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway in California’s picturesque coastline. Here are some of the best hotels in Avila Beach that our travelers love:

1. The Cliffs Hotel and SpaOpens in a new window: This 3.5-star hotel offers a vibrant beach experience tailored for adventure seekers. With direct access to the beach, it provides a variety of thrilling activities such as windsurfing, kayaking, and mountain biking nearby. Travelers appreciate the exciting recreational options available, making it a perfect choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the California coastline while enjoying an active vacation.
2. Dolphin Bay Resort and SpaOpens in a new window: The 4.0-star resort emphasizes a luxurious beach getaway with direct beach access, making it an ideal retreat for leisure travelers. Guests enjoy the serene ambiance and high-end amenities that enhance their experience. The property’s design and setting provide an inviting atmosphere, ensuring that visitors can unwind and indulge in a magnificent coastal escape.
3. Spyglass InnOpens in a new window: This 3.0-star motel is a fantastic option for travelers seeking a beach and adventure-friendly environment. With direct beach access and a variety of outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking, it delivers an exciting stay. This property welcomes pets, allowing travelers to enjoy their trips with their furry companions while exploring the stunning surroundings of Avila Beach.

Top locations to stay in Avila Beach

Some of the best areas to stay near Avila Beach, California, are Shell Beach, Pismo Beach, and Downtown Pismo Beach. Shell Beach offers stunning ocean views and a relaxed beach vibe, while Pismo Beach features vibrant activities and beautiful sandy shores. Downtown Pismo Beach combines shopping and dining with coastal charm, making it the best choice for first-time visitors.

1. Pismo BeachOpens in a new window: Pismo Beach is a fantastic destination known for its stunning coastline and vibrant beach culture. With its expansive sandy shores and iconic pier, it's a perfect spot for sunbathing, beachcombing, or enjoying a leisurely stroll. The area is also packed with fun activities, from surfing and kayaking to exploring tide pools. Pismo Beach's charming downtown offers a range of shops and boutiques, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs or enjoying a casual meal with ocean views. Plus, the nearby Monarch Butterfly Grove adds a touch of nature's beauty during the migration season, making it a truly captivating place to stay.
2. Shell BeachOpens in a new window: Nestled just north of Pismo Beach, Shell Beach is a hidden gem that offers a more tranquil beach experience. It's ideal for those looking to relax away from the larger crowds while still enjoying beautiful coastal views. The area is characterized by its stunning cliffs and tide pools, perfect for exploration and photography. Shell Beach is also home to several quaint shops and cozy eateries, providing a more intimate atmosphere. Whether you're enjoying a sunset walk along the rocky shore or soaking in the peaceful surroundings, Shell Beach is a delightful spot for a serene getaway.
3. Downtown Pismo BeachOpens in a new window: Downtown Pismo Beach is the heart of the action, where you can experience a lively atmosphere filled with shops, eateries, and cultural events. This area boasts a beautiful beachfront boardwalk, ideal for leisurely strolls or biking while taking in the ocean breeze. Local art galleries and cultural attractions provide a glimpse into the vibrant community. Events often pop up in this area, making it a lively hub for visitors. If you're looking to immerse yourself in the local scene while enjoying the beach vibe, Downtown Pismo Beach is the perfect place to stay.

Things to do in Avila Beach

Avila Beach enchants travelers with its stunning coastline, rolling hills, and lush parks. Enjoy sun-soaked days on pristine sands, explore scenic hiking and biking trails, and witness breathtaking sunsets over the ocean. With opportunities for golf and water activities, this charming seaside escape offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

• Pismo Beach PierOpens in a new window – Take a leisurely stroll along the Pismo Beach Pier, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy stunning ocean views. Cast your line for some fishing or simply watch the surfers ride the waves. The pier is a great spot to relax and take in the lively beach atmosphere, with shops and eateries just a short walk away.
• Monarch Butterfly GroveOpens in a new window – Visit the Monarch Butterfly Grove, a haven for these beautiful creatures. Depending on the season, you can witness thousands of butterflies clustering in the eucalyptus trees. It’s an enchanting experience perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike. Take a moment to stroll through the designated paths and marvel at the fluttering wings of these delicate insects.
• Pismo PreserveOpens in a new window – Explore the scenic trails at Pismo Preserve, where you can hike through picturesque landscapes and enjoy panoramic ocean views. This reserve offers a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a peaceful solo adventure. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you wander through the natural beauty of the area.
• Pirates CoveOpens in a new window – Discover the unique charm of Pirates Cove, a secluded beach known for its stunning cliffs and golden sands. This nudist beach provides a laid-back atmosphere for those who wish to bask in the sun with fewer distractions. Enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you, take a refreshing dip in the ocean, or simply relax on the beach and listen to the waves.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Avila Beach

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Avila Beach is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are typically lower. For a budget-friendly getaway, staying for at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the area's historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and stunning scenery. During your visit, you can enjoy relaxing on the beach, hiking scenic trails, biking along the coast, and dining at local cafes. Plus, be sure to catch the beautiful sunsets and take advantage of the golf opportunities available. Overall, Avila Beach offers great value for money for those looking to explore its rich history and vibrant culture.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover the best hotel deals for Avila Beach, explore the DealsOpens in a new window and Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you don't miss potential savings. You’re more likely to see new options or price drops with Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window a comparison tool available in the app that helps you evaluate hotel prices and amenities, making it easier to secure the best Avila Beach hotel deals for your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year. Being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at an Avila Beach hotel. If you're seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and can sometimes offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price happens to be on the higher side, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Avila Beach's great public transportation options, you may find a more affordable independent hotel a bit farther away that is still well-connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often great value to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations can provide a more genuine and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join our membership for free and book your next getaway in Avila Beach! Enjoy exclusive member prices and save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. As a member, you’ll have the opportunity to advance through membership tiers quickly, unlocking perks such as complimentary room upgrades (when available) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these fantastic benefits—sign up today and start planning your perfect stay!

Best time to go to Avila Beach

Avila Beach experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 52.2°F (11.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 69.4°F (20.8°C). January tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Avila Beach are April, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.