10 Unforgettable Places To Stay In San Luis Obispo On Central Coast

San Luis Obispo, often referred to as SLO, is an incredible travel destination along California’s Central Coast. It’s a mid-sized city that sees an average of 315 days of sunshine every year, perfect for enjoying the scenic beauty of the nearby shore!

Many visitors stop over in SLO while driving California’s world-famous Pacific Coast Highway on a road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco, while others come to escape the daily grind in a lively atmosphere near the beach. 

Our top pick for a hotel in SLO:

San Luis Creek Lodge which offers beautifully decorated rooms with a mid-century modern vibe!

Although SLO is tucked into the sprawling foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains, ocean attractions like Pismo Beach and Avila Beach are only a 15-minute drive from the city. Other incredible things to do in San Luis Obispo include visiting the historic Mission, buying local produce at the Farmer’s Market, and indulging in the region’s fabulous wine scene. 

Whatever brings you to SLO, these best places to stay in San Luis Obispo will make you feel right at home!

Some of the links used in this blog may be affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission when you book through these links for which I am very thankful!

10 Best Places To Stay In San Luis Obispo:

1. Best Boutique Bed & Breakfast: San Luis Creek Lodge

This three-star modern hotel is filled with stylish decor and is located near California Polytechnic State University.

Retro and refined style await you at the San Luis Creek Lodge, a hip bed and breakfast. The hotel features king and queen standards furnished with mid-century modern decor, locally sourced art, and fun wallpaper. 

There are upgrade options available which include a fireplace and additional square footage for those who appreciate ample room. Guests are treated to luxury toiletries by Aesop as well as a lovely breakfast complete with coffee and fresh pastries. The Mill Street Historic District is a 15-minute walk away. 

Rates start at $250/night. Click here to book it!

2. Best For a Stay In Downtown: Hotel San Luis Obispo

This contemporary hotel is within walking distance of Mission San Luis Obispo and features well-appointed rooms with fantastic amenities. 

If you appreciate homey accommodation, the Hotel San Luis Obispo should be on your radar. Throughout the hotel, bright white walls are complemented with vibrant pops of color that are sure to catch your eye. Guests are treated to Nespresso machines, Bluetooth speakers, mini-fridges, and private balconies or terraces in the rooms. 

The resort is brimming with even more excellent amenities. From the swimming pool and hot tub to the onsite fitness center and bar, there’s plenty to keep you occupied during your stay. You’ll also appreciate that this San Luis Obispo Hotel is located right in the heart of downtown. 

Rates start at $510/night. Click here to book it!

3. Best San Luis Obispo Hotel With a Spa: Granada Hotel And Bistro

This three-star hotel and spa has 1920s-inspired decor and offers unique activities like painting workshops and spa treatments. 

The Granada Hotel and Bistro is known for sophisticated lodging in the heart of San Luis Obispo. The hotel is equipped with only 17 guest rooms ensuring a quiet and cozy experience.

Glamourous finishes throughout the lobby and hotel rooms amaze, like exposed red brick walls, glitzy chandeliers, and velvet furniture. You’ll also find a fireplace and high-end toiletries awaiting you. 

When hunger strikes, grab a bite at the Granada Bistro, a highly-rated eatery that serves lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Many guests enjoy sitting around the large fireplace on the outdoor terrace under the glow of string lights. 

Rates start at $250/night. Click here to book it!

4. Best SLO Bed And Breakfast: Garden Street Inn

This bed and breakfast is housed in a beautiful Victorian building and is furnished with attractive antique accents. 

Go back in time at the Garden Street Inn, an inviting San Luis Obispo hotel that dates back to 1887. This lovely hotel rocks a four-star rating and offers various accommodation options to suit different needs. Take your pick from standard units, suites with a seating room, and rooms with a private balcony. 

No matter which unit you book, all rooms at the Garden Street Inn feature a plush queen bed, spacious bedrooms, and homey decor. Each morning, breakfast is served in the McCaffrey Morning Room, a beautiful lounge with towering bookshelves and a fireplace. The hotel also has a library perfect for socializing or curling up with a good book.

Rates start at $260/night. Click here to book it!

5. Best Budget-Friendly Hotel In San Luis Obispo: Apple Farm Inn

This three-star hotel takes the charm of farmhouse chic and pairs it with modern amenities for a relaxing stay on California’s Central Coast.

The Apple Farm Inn is an ideal pick for travelers seeking a relaxed visit to San Luis Obispo and is located not far from the Cal Poly campus. Nearly everything you could need is provided on the hotel grounds.

At the Apple Farm Restaurant, fresh American dishes are available every day for breakfast and lunch. The Apple Farm Marketplace is your one-stop gift shop offering local goodies and treats. 

Additionally, the Inn has an outdoor pool, so you can make the most of the endless sunny days in SLO. It’s important to note that the Inn maintains two other properties, including the Trellis Court Motel and The Milhouse, each offering a distinctly unique experience. 

Rates start at $175/night. Click here to book it!

6. Best For a Stay In The Vineyards: Historic Edna Farmhouse

This charming vacation rental offers a rural and quiet escape to central California’s stunning vineyards about ten minutes from downtown SLO.

The Historic Edna Farmhouse features country decor with elegant touches. It’s situated on two sprawling acres nestled in the vineyards of Edna Valley, surrounded by peaceful rolling hills. Three porches around the home make it easy to relax in the fresh country air.

The farmhouse has a total of three bedrooms to accommodate six guests, as well as a spacious and well-appointed kitchen. The hosts have also equipped this VRBO with an outdoor grill and welcome guests with a bottle of wine. The property sits next to Sextant Wines, a local winery with a tasting room and deli.

• Bedrooms: 3
• Sleeps: 6

Rates start at $345/night. Click here to book it!

7. Most Luxurious SLO Vacation Rental: Tuscan Poolside Villa

This poolside guesthouse on the outskirts of the city wows guests with spectacular views and access to an outdoor area with an in-ground pool.

Wake up and feel transported to another country at this Tuscan poolside villa. Located about a five-minute drive from the heart of the city, this beautiful VRBO is surrounded by nothing but peaceful valley views. 

The pool house is furnished with a comfy king-sized bed and a private bathroom that reviewers note is sparkling clean. Aside from the glamorous in-ground pool, the property has a bubbling hot tub and plush sun loungers. This villa is conveniently located between San Luis Obispo’s attractions and the scenic vineyards of Edna Valley and Wolff Vineyards.

• Bedrooms: 1
• Sleeps: 3

Rates start at $595/night. Click here to book it!

8. Best Pet-Friendly Hotel: The Butler Hotel

This three-star boutique hotel is housed in an old industrial building turned modern accommodation a 10-minute walk from downtown. 

Industrial style and mid-century modern sensibilities wow at The Butler Hotel, a sophisticated place to stay in San Luis Obispo that welcomes dogs. Bedrooms feature either a queen or king bed but are all equipped with marble bathrooms and walk-in showers.

A fabulous lounge is available to guests, complete with an eye-catching spiral staircase, contemporary artwork, and hip furniture. In the evening, stargaze or chat with loved ones on the patio strung with twinkling lights.

San Luis Obispo’s central culinary and shopping neighborhoods can be easily reached by foot or bike, available to guests for free. 

• Bedrooms: 1
• Sleeps: 2

Rates start at $302/night. Click here to book it!

9. Best VRBO Near Avila Valley: The Quailhouse

This one-bedroom SLO vacation rental is a romantic getaway for two with impeccable interior design, all while nestled on a working ranch.

The Quailhouse is an airy and inviting VRBO about five minutes from San Luis Obispo and the quiet shores of Avila Beach. This small yet cozy home is best suited for two but is furnished with a pull-out sofa bed to sleep a third if needed. 

In the kitchen, complimentary tea and coffee supplies ensure you begin your morning with a bang. The home also features a private yard with lush greenery and a lovely seating area. Simplicity and eco-friendly design truly make this guesthouse something special.

• Bedrooms: 2
• Sleeps: 3

Rates start at $239/night. Click here to book it!

10. Best Vacation Rental With a View: Vista House

This luxury vacation rental for six boasts incredible modern amenities and a view you won’t soon forget 12 minutes from San Luis Obispo. 

Panoramic mountaintop views are the star of the show at the Vista House, an unforgettable SLO VRBO. This pet-friendly home may be a private residence, but it treats guests to a hotel experience. From the beautiful koi pond to the complimentary TESLA charging station, as well as the upscale fixtures, there’s a lot to love at the Vista House. 

In the living room, French doors open to the spacious balcony where it’s possible to see the Pacific Ocean and the extinct volcanoes dubbed the Seven Sisters. Guests also enjoy access to the eight-acre property where a chicken coop provides fresh eggs, and a garden supplies a variety of veggies.

• Bedrooms: 2
• Sleeps: 6

Rates start at $275/night. Click here to book it!

We hope this guide has helped you prepare for a wonderful visit to San Luis Obispo. Looking for more Central Coast inspiration? Check out these posts next:

• How To Hike Irish Hills Natural Reserve In San Luis Obispo
• 10 Best Hotels In Morro Bay For A Scenic Getaway To The Coast
• 10 Best VRBOs In Morro Bay For a Cozy Trip To California’s Coast
• 15 Wonderful Things To Do In Morro Bay
• 10 Incredible VRBO Vacation Rentals In Pismo Beach
• Elfin Forest Trail In Los Osos, California