Hotels in Avila Beach

Nestled along California's picturesque Central Coast, Avila Beach invites travelers to unwind in its sun-kissed paradise. This charming seaside destination boasts stunning ocean views, inviting sandy shores, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for a romantic getaway or a family retreat. Stroll the scenic beachfront promenade, savor fresh seafood at local eateries, and explore nearby natural wonders like Avila Valley and the captivating tide pools. With cozy beach houses and cottages enhancing the coastal experience, Avila Beach is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends relaxation with adventure, making it a must-visit for those seeking serenity by the sea. For the best hotel rates in Avila Beach, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Avila Beach

Some of the best places to stay in Avila Beach are Downtown San Luis Obispo, Shell Beach and Baywood Park. Avila Beach, California, is surrounded by charming destinations. Downtown San Luis Obispo offers vibrant dining and shopping, perfect for exploring. Shell Beach features stunning coastal views and relaxed beach vibes, ideal for sunbathers. Baywood Park has a serene atmosphere with lovely bay views, great for nature lovers. For accommodations, expect a range of options from cozy inns to beach hotels. For first-time visitors, Downtown San Luis Obispo is the best choice, providing a lively experience and easy access to local attractions. Here are some of the best hotels in Avila Beach that our travelers love:

1. Downtown San Luis ObispoOpens in a new window: Downtown San Luis Obispo is a vibrant area rich in culture, offering iconic landmarks such as California Polytechnic State University and the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. The area is perfect for travelers interested in history, entertainment, and arts. For accommodation, consider Hotel San Luis ObispoOpens in a new window, a luxurious 4.5-star hotel that features a full spa and pool services, making it ideal for a relaxing getaway. Another option is Garden Street Inn, A Kirkwood Collection HotelOpens in a new window, a cozy 4.0-star bed and breakfast that provides a complimentary breakfast and is close to local shopping and historical sites. Lastly, Granada Hotel & BistroOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star property, features an onsite restaurant and various recreational activities, ensuring a fun-filled stay.
2. Shell BeachOpens in a new window: Shell Beach is renowned for its stunning coastline and outdoor adventures, with attractions like the Pismo Beach Pier and Avila Hot Springs nearby. This area is perfect for beach lovers and those seeking relaxation. Inn at the Pier Pismo Beach, Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel that offers direct beach access and business amenities, making it great for both leisure and work travelers. Another choice is Dolphin Bay Resort and SpaOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star resort that boasts a natural hot spring and adventure activities like ziplining and mountain biking, perfect for thrill-seekers.
3. Baywood ParkOpens in a new window: Baywood Park is a picturesque destination that offers outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, including Morro Bay State Park and Morro Rock. This area is perfect for nature enthusiasts and those looking to explore California’s natural beauty. Hotel ChevalOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star boutique hotel, features unique decor and pet-friendly policies, ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious yet cozy stay. Allegretto Vineyard Resort Paso RoblesOpens in a new window, another 4.5-star option, is family-friendly with business amenities, while CaliPaso WineryOpens in a new window offers a luxury experience with access to a nearby winery, perfect for wine enthusiasts.

Three days in Avila Beach offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, sandy shores, and scenic mountains. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities like hiking, biking, and boating, while breathtaking sunsets provide a magical backdrop. This tranquil destination invites travelers to unwind and connect with nature. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Avila Beach:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the rejuvenating Avila Hot Springs, where you can soak in the mineral-rich waters and unwind. After you've relaxed, take a short drive to the secluded Pirates Cove, a hidden gem perfect for sunbathing or exploring tide pools. Conclude your day with a visit to the San Luis Obispo Lighthouse, where you can enjoy stunning coastal views and perhaps catch a glimpse of the sunset painting the sky in vibrant colors.
• Day 2: Start your day at the iconic Pismo Beach Pier, where you can take a leisurely stroll, soak in the ocean breeze, and maybe grab breakfast at a nearby café. Next, head to the Monarch Butterfly Grove to witness the incredible sight of thousands of butterflies during their migration season. Wrap up your day at Pismo State Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shore, enjoy a beachside picnic, or even take a dip in the ocean.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, where you can rent an ATV for some thrilling off-road adventures on the sand dunes. Afterward, make your way to Pismo Preserve, where beautiful hiking trails await, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Conclude your experience with a visit to Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, where you can delve into California's rich history and admire the beautiful architecture of this historic mission.

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Avila Beach is during January, November, and December, when hotel rates are lower. For international travelers, it's wise to book your flight at least 7 months in advance to secure better deals. To fully appreciate the main attractions of this beautiful destination, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days. Avila Beach offers great value for money with its stunning coastline and picturesque seaside views, making it a perfect spot for those traveling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're planning a spontaneous getaway, last-minute deals to Avila Beach can offer great savings on accommodations. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section. There, you could find enticing discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging a great deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions. This way, you’re more likely to find the perfect lodging specials for your trip.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Avila Beach.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Avila Beach is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like driving, taking the bus, biking, or walking to explore the area while saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Avila Beach. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Avila Beach

Here are a few popular dishes in Avila Beach, California, United States of America:

• Clam Chowder: A creamy and hearty soup, clam chowder is a classic coastal dish. In Avila Beach, it's often made with fresh clams sourced from local waters, potatoes, onions, and a touch of bacon for added richness. Served in a sourdough bread bowl, it's perfect for enjoying while taking in the ocean views.
• Fish Tacos: Celebrating the region's fishing heritage, fish tacos in Avila Beach feature freshly caught fish, typically grilled or fried, topped with crunchy cabbage and zesty salsa. Served in warm corn tortillas, these tacos are not only delicious but also a vibrant reflection of California's coastal cuisine.
• Avocado Toast: A trendy yet timeless dish, avocado toast in Avila Beach showcases ripe, local avocados spread generously on artisanal bread. Topped with various ingredients like heirloom tomatoes, radishes, or a sprinkle of feta, it’s a perfect blend of health and flavor that embodies the region's fresh produce.

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 is usually the wettest month. April, June, and July are the peak travel months in Avila Beach, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, with dry rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.