18 Best Places To Stay In San Simeon, California 2023
Looking for some of the best places to stay in San Simeon? This post has you covered!
Located on the Central California Coast, San Simeon is a small town known for exciting outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, sightseeing, and wine tasting. It is also one of the best locations to stay for the night before heading into the rugged Big Sur drive.
Besides relaxing on the beachfront, other popular activities nearby include visiting the fascinating Hearst Castle and Elephant Seal Vista Point where you can observe elephant seals lounging in the sand.
Our top pick for a Hotel in San Simeon: Quality Inn Near Hearst Castle which has excellent reviews, an outdoor pool, and is a walking distance from the ocean!
Whether you’re planning an epic Highway 1 road trip or a weekend getaway to the coast, here are some of the best hotels and vacation rentals in San Simeon to book for your vacation!
Some of the links used in this blog may be affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission when you book through these links which helps support this blog! Thank you!
Best Places To Stay In San Simeon:
1. Quality Inn Near Hearst Castle
The Quality Inn hotel is situated on Castillo Drive in the lovely town of San Simeon, just a few minutes away from Hearst Castle. This cozy accommodation makes it an ideal place to stay for exploring the attractions of California’s Central Coast.
“The extras were fabulous – breakfast, cookies and a candy bar at checkout! Nice, comfortable and value priced.” -Susan, Booking.com
Guests at the Quality Inn can take advantage of many amenities it offers, such as complimentary continental breakfast and coffee.
Guests can also enjoy soaking up the sun by the heated outdoor pool and hot tub during the afternoon and relax in the evening by the outdoor fire pit.
This charming San Simeon hotel offers comfortable rooms that include refrigerators and microwaves. You can also opt for whirlpool bathtubs or family suites. The courtyard rooms offer picturesque views of the lush gardens.
2. The Morgan Hotel San Simeon
The Morgan at San Simeon offers the perfect blend of comfort and style, along with the convenience and value of a roadside motel. The hotel features 56 guest rooms, each with necessary amenities, plush bed linens, bath amenities, and a mini-refrigerator.
“Unbelievable ocean view. We left the windows open at night and heard the waves crashing in the distance.” -Danielle, Booking.com
For a special occasion, guests can book a deluxe guest room with a fireplace to enhance their stay. The hotel’s Grab & Go breakfast is included in the room cost and served daily from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., providing a perfect start to your day.
The Hearst Castle and Paso Robles Wine Country are just a short drive away. Staying at the Morgan is undoubtedly a great value for the money!
Looking for a fun way to spend the day? Book this Paso Robles Wine Adventure Tour and visit some of the area’s most beloved wineries and tasting rooms!
3. Sea Breeze Inn San Simeon
The Sea Breeze Inn is situated just a 5-minute drive from Hearst San Simeon State Park, making it a convenient location to stay for an outdoor trip on the Central Coast. The hotel is also close to local beaches, viewpoints, picnic tables, and the popular Hearst Castle.
“We got the king-size bed with an ocean view. It was very nice, peaceful, clean, and very affordable. The view was awesome.” – Crista, Booking.com
Each hotel room features cable TV and a coffee maker, as well as a dining table. In the evening, you can relax by the outdoor swimming pool or take a walk to the nearby beach.
The neighboring Big Sur coast and Cambria town are easily accessible by heading on a drive along the scenic Highway 1. The inn’s central location puts guests just minutes away from exciting attractions in San Simeon, such as bike tours, San Simeon Pier, and hiking trails.
Within a short walk from the hotel, you can easily access a variety of restaurants such as Cavalier Coastal Kitchen and San Simeon Beach Bar & Grill.
4. Cavalier Oceanfront Resort
Cavalier Oceanfront Resort is an excellent place to book if you’re looking for a laid-back resort with top-notch amenities. During your stay, you can enjoy a couple of laps in one of the two heated outdoor pools or relax in the hot tub.
“Staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful. Great location that is convenient to Hearst Castle and Cambria.” –Katherine, Booking.com
When reserving the rooms, you have the choice to book a room with a fireplace, ocean view, and patio. Rooms include a coffee maker, mini bar, and a fridge if you plan to bring any food for making meals on the go.
If you’d rather dine out, there is a restaurant on site serving three meals a day including room service. As a bonus, this hotel is also pet friendly so you can bring your four-legged friend along on your adventures!
5. Coast Riders Inn
Coast Riders Inn provides guests with comfortable accommodations that come with a garden, free private parking, as well as a shared lounge. The inn offers a variety of amenities that you can enjoy during your stay including a swimming pool, hot tub, and a games area.
“Very friendly staff and owners. Just across the beach, we had a great time watching the sunset. Great value.” -Carmel, Booking.com
The front staff is very welcoming and can provide lots of helpful information such as things to do in the area and the best places to eat nearby. All rooms include a private bathroom, a hairdryer, bed linens, and many other necessities for a comfortable stay.
Within the property, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the indoor pool and unwind in the hot tub after a busy day exploring local attractions.
The hotel is only a 45-minute drive from Paso Robles Airport. It is less than a 20-minute drive from the world-famous Hearst Castle and Piedras Blancas Light Station (reservations are required to visit the lighthouse).
6. Silver Surf Motel
This charming no-frills motel is located just off Cabrillo Highway 1, between Cambria and Big Sur. Silver Surf Motel is an ideal budget getaway, only minutes away from San Simeon’s pristine beaches and Hearst Castle.
This hotel is also situated along the route between Los Angeles and San Francisco, making it an easy overnight stop for those on a road trip between these two cities.
“It’s our fav hotel, we always get a room with the fireplace.” -Naomi, Booking.com
This family-friendly motel offers many amenities, including complimentary WiFi, laundry facilities, and on-site parking. You can cozy up by the lobby’s fireplace or unwind on the rooftop terrace or garden area.
The motel has a multilingual staff who is always ready to go above and beyond to assist you in any possible way. Each room includes a fridge, microwave, coffee maker, and a TV making it one of the most convenient and affordable places to stay in San Simeon CA.
7. Sands By The Sea Motel
The Sands by the Sea is a welcoming accommodation option situated conveniently on the Pacific Coast Highway and near Hearst Castle and Cambria. This cozy motel offers rooms that come with free WiFi, a mini-fridge, a microwave, and flat-screen TV with cable channels.
“Breakfast was good. The property has so much to offer from the games on the lawn to the short trip down to the beach! My family enjoyed every bit!” -Aubrey, Booking.com
Guests can enjoy a delicious meal and beautiful ocean views at the Cavalier Coastal Kitchen, which is located just a few steps away. The Sands by the Sea is the perfect spot for guests to explore the Central Coast’s top sights, beaches, landmarks, and hiking trails such as the San Simeon Bay Trail.
If you want to stay close to nature without breaking the bank, then this motel is the perfect place to book for your trip!
8. San Simeon Lodge
Situated between swaying palm trees and just a block from the ocean, San Simeon Lodge is one of the best San Simeon places to stay for a tranquil, beachy vacation.
“Great location, very accommodating. Restaurant, bar, and mini mart on site. Great view of the ocean. The room was very comfortable.” -Stephanie, Booking.com
This laid-back motel has plenty to keep guests occupied, from the heated outdoor pool to the fun karaoke on the weekends. There is also San Simeon Bar and Grill on site with an outdoor terrace and ocean views from every table.
Booking options include Queen or King rooms with ocean or courtyard views. All of the rooms come equipped with a coffee machine and a fridge for convenience.
This property is situated just a few miles from the must-see Hearst Castle. From the lodge, you can easily reach the San Simeon beach for a relaxing day on the seashore.
9. Pacific Coast Roadhouse By Best Western
The Pacific Coast Roadhouse is located only a 10-minute drive from William Randolph Hearst State Park and Leffingwell Landing State Park. The boutique inn has 48 air-conditioned rooms, each featuring a balcony, patio, TV, and bathroom with a tub, shower, hairdryer, and towels.
“The location of this property is the gateway to Big Sur. The price for what you get is an excellent value.” -Christine, Booking.com
Guests can enjoy stunning views of the sea from their rooms. The inn provides 24-hour front desk assistance, late check-out service, and housekeeping, as well as a desk for those who need to catch up on work while traveling.
A complimentary breakfast is served at the on-site restaurant daily so you can fuel up on energy before heading out to explore for the day.
10. Oceanpoint Ranch
Oceanpoint Ranch is situated in Cambria, just a 10-minute drive south of San Simeon. It offers direct beach access from a private trail and has free parking available on the property.
“The Hotel location was great! It was close enough to the beach and had access by walking or hiking. The modern Ranch style decor was pleasant and fun.” -Nancy, Booking.com
The hotel features beautiful decor and rooms with generous amenities. The guest rooms come with a choice of either 1 King or 2 Queen beds, plush linens, an in-room mini fridge, a 50″ HD TV with cable, and luxury bath amenities in the bathroom.
Outdoor shuffleboard and lawn croquet are available for entertainment during your stay. Additionally, for business travelers, the property has a conference center for meetings. You can also arrange other events here, such as weddings or birthday parties.
11. White Water
White Water is a hotel located on the north end of Moonstone Beach Boardwalk in Cambria, just a one-minute walk from the beach. Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and a daily continental breakfast.
“We loved the quaint, soothing ambiance of the whole lodge. We looked forward to the morning basket of pastries, hot coffee, and mimosa kit!” -Jennifer, Booking.com
Each guest room at White Water is uniquely designed with custom furnishings, artwork, and accents inspired by the local natural terrain from the California coastline.
The lobby lounge offers a variety of delicious local wines, craft beers, and ciders, along with a selection of small bites and share plates that can be enjoyed in the lounge or your room as a takeaway.
The chef at White Water takes pride in curating a wide selection of local cheeses, meats, and other small bites for guests to enjoy.
12. Motel 6-San Simeon, CA – Hearst Castle Area
Motel 6 San Simeon is a seafront motel situated in San Simeon offering its guests proximity to popular attractions such as Hearst Castle and San Simeon State Park.
The motel has 100 air-conditioned guestrooms with amenities like free WiFi, cable TV, and bathrooms with showers and other facilities. Blackout curtains are also available in the rooms for those who want to enjoy some peace and get rest after a full day of driving or sightseeing.
“Ideally located a short walk to the ocean with beautiful walking paths. A perfect place to spend a night on the way along the Pacific Highway.” -Peter, Booking.com
Guests can enjoy delicious meals at the on-site restaurant or grab a snack from the snack bar & deli. The motel offers an outdoor pool and a terrace where guests can relax after a long day out.
Whether you are traveling alone or with family, this is one of the best budget-friendly motels near San Simeon CA to book for a road trip!
13. Oceanfront Escape
Oceanfront Escape is a cozy four-bedroom condo located right on the beach in San Simeon. This vacation rental offers unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean stretching from the Southern end of Cambria to the historical San Simeon Lighthouse and beyond.
“Our experience took our breath away just like the amazing views. Our family enjoyed the comfort of home away from home with the plus of walking to the beach each morning.” -Jessica, VRBO
Guests can enjoy the beach views from almost every room, and a walk to the shore is just a few steps away. It is the ideal location to relax on the patio with your loved ones and watch whales, dolphins, and otters while enjoying a beautiful sunset with the refreshing ocean breeze.
The condo has two living room areas, one upstairs and one downstairs, each with gas fireplaces, flat-screen TVs, and private oceanfront balconies, providing unparalleled and gorgeous nature views.
14. Striking Oceanfront Rental
The two-bedroom two-bathroom condo is fully equipped for a week’s stay on the coast. The front room offers a breathtaking view of the sea.
“Wonderful, comfortable house. Beautiful sunset and easy access to walking/jogging trails. It was a much-needed escape!” -Stacy, VRBO
Guests can enjoy cozy evenings by the fireplace or relax on the private deck overlooking the sandy beach below. You can listen to the waves and take long walks on the beach while watching the sun going down.
The property is conveniently located near Hearst Castle and Hearst Ranch Winery, Paso Robles wine country, San Luis Obispo, and the Big Sur Coastline.
Please note that this home requires a one-week minimum booking in the low season and a two-week minimum in the high season.
15. Delightful Beachfront Vacation Condo
This vacation home is situated on a scenic bluff with a view of San Simeon Beach near Pico Creek. San Simeon is an excellent location to explore Big Sur and is a great base if you plan to travel north along scenic Highway 1, visit the Elephant Seal Vista Point, or tour the renowned Hearst Castle.
“Location was perfect. The ocean is right outside the patio door. All we ever heard was the sounds of the waves. Highly recommend.” –Kris, VRBO
Just ten minutes south of this property is the quaint town of Cambria, known for its delightful galleries, antique shops, and dining. Unlike busier areas on the beachfront, this is a tranquil spot where people come to unwind and rejuvenate.
You can conveniently walk to local shops and restaurants from the condo. The property can accommodate a maximum of four guests so it’s perfect for couples or smaller families.
16. Brook’s Beach Retreat
Brook’s Beach retreat is situated in the midst of the scenic Santa Lucia mountain range, right on the Pacific Ocean, offering spectacular views of the coastline. Its location makes it an ideal place to stay, with Hearst Castle to the north and the charming village of Cambria just a few minutes to the south.
“Beautiful views right on the beach! Quiet & relaxing. Great living space & very nice, updated kitchen with everything you need.” -Denise, VRBO
This 2-bedroom house offers breathtaking views from the front deck, the guest bedroom deck, and the kitchen-living room area. You can sip wine on the deck while watching dolphins playing around or try to spot grey whales migrating south.
If you are traveling with kids, there is plenty of wildlife nearby, including elephant seals, sea otters, and San Simeon zebras (yep, you read that right!). In the evening, you can relax with your friends and family in the cozy space or enjoy a sunset walk on the beach.
With all the amenities available at your fingertips, this retreat is one of the best options for lodging near San Simeon CA!
Read Next: 15 Best Places For Viewing Wildlife In California
17. Ragged Point Inn & Resort
Ragged Point Inn & Resort is a beloved place to stay on the Central Coast. This hotel is situated 20 minutes north of San Simeon in a rugged wilderness area overlooking the coast.
“Love this place! Beautiful grounds and awesome views. Rooms are clean and large. Great restaurant and food. Can’t wait to go back!” -Derek, Expedia
The Ragged Point Inn is pet friendly so it’s a great accommodation choice for those heading on a road trip with their furry friends. The hotel offers plenty of food choices including an on-site gourmet restaurant, deli, coffee shop, and bar.
In your free time, you can roam around the beautifully manicured gardens or relax in the lounge chairs. Other property amenities include a gas station, a mini-mart, and a gift shop.
18. A Charming Seaside Escape
Enjoy awe-inspiring ocean views and private beach access just steps away from San Simeon Beach, where your furry friend can run and play in the sand for miles. In the evenings, you can fall asleep to the sound of the waves and the fresh salt air.
The main room in this seaside property has a wood-burning fireplace, a flat-screen TV, and WiFi access. There is also a BBQ located outside on the deck.
“This property was absolutely beautiful. The home is impeccably clean. The beds are extremely comfortable; the fireplace is so romantic.” -Juanita, VRBO
You can visit Cambria’s Farmer’s Market on Fridays and bring home your harvest to prepare delicious food in the fully equipped kitchen. There are miles of walking trails outside this home, and you can also walk to the town of San Simeon to visit many restaurants and shops.
The Elephant Seal Sanctuary, Hearst Castle, William Randolph Hearst State Beach, and Cambria are all just a short drive away.
We hope this guide has helped you prepare for a wonderful visit to San Simeon. Looking for more Central Coast inspiration? Check out these posts next:
You May Also Like
17 Best Places To Stay In Cambria CA Near The Beach
How To Hike Ventura Botanical Gardens Trail In Ventura
