The Cliffs Hotel and Spa

Pismo Beach, California

Star rating

Aerial view of hotel and pool
Hotel exterior
Classic King Room
Clasic 2 Queen Room
Hotel exterior
Pool
Shell Beach
Beach/Pool sign
Hotel sign
Hotel Lobby
Spa
Ocean view
Aerial view of hotel and pool
Hotel exterior
Classic King Room
Clasic 2 Queen Room
Hotel exterior
Pool
Shell Beach
Beach/Pool sign
Hotel sign
Hotel Lobby
Spa
Ocean view

The hotel

Its spot on its own bluff doesn’t just provide The Cliffs Resort & Spa its name; it gives it incredible ocean views, a perfect setting for its heated oceanfront pool, and the inspiration for the splashes of coastal blues that brighten its earthy toned guest rooms. Laying its claim to the beach below, you get direct access to the sands. On scenic Highway One, it’s just a drive from San Luis Obispo County’s championship golf, wineries and dining. But it would be hard to top the hotel’s own Marisol restaurant, with its ‘market-driven’ menu supplied by local farmers and fishermen, its bar winning accolades like ‘best drink with a view’ and hosting seasonal cocktail specials and a weekend brunch, a local favourite! And make sure you listen out for the daily ring of the bell to toast the sunset.

Amenities

  • Fitness Centre/Gym
  • Free Parking
  • Internet Access
  • Restaurant
  • Room Service
  • Safety Deposit Box
  • Spa
  • Swimming Pool
  • Valet parking
  • Beachfront location

Where is it

Overlooking Shell Beach, it is 10 min drive from San Luis Obispo, in a region home to top-notch beaches, championship golf courses and more than 200 wineries. The boutiques and weekly farmer’s market of San Luis Obispo, the surf and seaside shops of Pismo Beach and Avila Beach, and the antique and speciality shops of The Village in Arroyo Grande are also just a drive away. 

Hotel information

160 rooms and suites. All with private balcony or patio, views of the ocean, coast, pool or mountains, Italian marble bathrooms, spacious work stations, fireplaces on request (dependent on availability), in-room safe, flatscreen HDTV, tea and coffee station, beverage cooler, and complimentary WiFi access. 

Classic Rooms have either 1 king-size or 2 queen-size beds, sleeping maximum 4 people.

Coastal/Partial Ocean View Rooms have a quiet setting by the beach pathway, with coastline and Avila Bay views, and 1 king-size or 2 queen-size beds, sleeping maximum 4 adults. Non-Ocean View Rooms have mountain views, and 1 king-size or 2 queen-size beds, sleeping maximum 4 adults.

Complimentary shuttle service to and from San Luis Obispo Regional Airport & Amtrak stations are available with prior reservations. Complimentary self-parking a short walk away, or valet parking onsite for $20 plus tax per night (payable locally, fee subject to change).

Marisol bar and restaurant (casual Californian menu and cocktails, oceanfront setting, indoor and al fresco dining, 8 HDTVs in bar, open for all-day dining). Seasonal poolside bar and pool service. Fresh coffee served in the lobby each morning. In-room dining*.

Regular events schedule including fitness classes and live music.

Heated oceanfront pool. Hot tub (adults-only). 24-hour fitness centre. Spa*.

WiFi. Laundry service*. Computer access in the lobby. 24-hour front desk. Gift shop/Boutique.

There is a daily resort fee of $40 plus tax per room (payable locally, fee subject to change). 

Resort fee includes:- Access to the fitness centre –  Use of the outdoor pool and hot tub – WiFi access – Computer use in the lobby. Resort fee and inclusions are subject to availability and change. 

* Denotes local charge.

Please note: The beach access is down four flights of stairs. The trail should be entered at the guest’s own risk as the stairs are uneven and subject to the elements. The beach is not accessible by wheelchair.

Rating summary

  • Location Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Sleep Quality Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Rooms Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Service Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Value Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Cleanliness Image of the Tripadvisor rating

Traveller rating

  • Excellent (876)
  • Very good (377)
  • Average (142)
  • Poor (78)
  • Terrible (71)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Beautiful views

Apr 21, 2025 Curiosity65648543253

Everyone from valet to front desk was very friendly. Room was clean and balcony with views and of pool and pacific was beautiful. Only stayed one evening and didn’t use outdoor areas but did see personnel vacuum pool and wiping down outdoor furniture before 8 am. Marisol restaurant served a plentiful and delicious breakfast Will stay again… Read more
Everyone from valet to front desk was very friendly. Room was clean and balcony with views and of pool and pacific was beautiful. Only stayed one evening and didn’t use outdoor areas but did see personnel vacuum pool and wiping down outdoor furniture before 8 am. Marisol restaurant served a plentiful and delicious breakfast Will stay again if in the area Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating More Than Dog Friendly

Feb 22, 2025 M9787LCrobinm

We spent the weekend at the Cliffs with our two large dogs. The bottom floor of the hotel is not just dog friendly but is a resort for dogs. The room was modern, spacious and opened right outside to several greenbelts for access for the dogs. The room had a large sofa which we made into a dog bed. There is a trail that is wide and takes 2 minutes… Read more
We spent the weekend at the Cliffs with our two large dogs. The bottom floor of the hotel is not just dog friendly but is a resort for dogs. The room was modern, spacious and opened right outside to several greenbelts for access for the dogs. The room had a large sofa which we made into a dog bed. There is a trail that is wide and takes 2 minutes to the beach. There were multiple off leash beaches that weren't mobbed with dogs. The hotel staff were over the top welcoming offering free cocktails when we walked through the door and went out of their way suggesting a spectacular restaurant(Marisol) right next door. The view overlooking the ocean was greet and the pool was large. The fitness room was also large and had all types of machines. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Perfect Valentines Getaway

Feb 16, 2025 llanderos33112

We just returned from an amazing stay. From the moment we arrived we were greeted with such warm and friendly staff. They treat you like royalty. The room and the ocean view were amazing! We have stayed here many times and it never disappoints! Comfortable beds, amazing view, friendly staff, and great amenities make the Cliffs a perfect getaway.… Read more
We just returned from an amazing stay. From the moment we arrived we were greeted with such warm and friendly staff. They treat you like royalty. The room and the ocean view were amazing! We have stayed here many times and it never disappoints! Comfortable beds, amazing view, friendly staff, and great amenities make the Cliffs a perfect getaway. Enjoyed a gorgeous sunset from our oceanfront balcony. Sitting by the fire pits and sipping a cocktail from the Marisol was very relaxing as well. It was the perfect Valentines getaway. We enjoyed our stay and are booked again as we can’t wait to return next month to celebrate our 13th wedding anniversary! Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Lovely Hotel in Pismo Beach

Jan 21, 2025 James G Los Angeles, California

We stayed at this hotel and we couldn't be happier. We had a small dog with us and the staff was extremely welcoming and accommodating to our needs. The food at the restaurant was delicious and the waiter was friendly and kind. He even brought a bowl for our dog. We had a pet-friendly room which had a small balcony. The beds were comfortable, and… Read more
We stayed at this hotel and we couldn't be happier. We had a small dog with us and the staff was extremely welcoming and accommodating to our needs. The food at the restaurant was delicious and the waiter was friendly and kind. He even brought a bowl for our dog. We had a pet-friendly room which had a small balcony. The beds were comfortable, and the room and overall hotel were super clean. Great location. pool and jacuzzi were heated, and nice. The Hotel is on a Cliff, hence the name of course. There is a beautiful set of stairs leading down to the beach that of course if you need assistance with stairs, and want to go to the sand this is not the hotel for you. There is a valet service option for $ 25 dollars. This is a LOVELY hotel in Pismo Beach. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Superb hotel situated in beautiful setting, Pismo Beach.Fabulous wedding venue

Dec 10, 2024 Blueskye70 London, United Kingdom

We stayed at The Cliffs Hotel and Spa and Pismo beach for a family wedding. What a beautiful location. Room was well appointed, great space snd furnishings. Restaurant and bar were great good food , excellent drinks. I want to commend the excellent customer service from all staff. Friendly and professional. I particularly want to mention Aaron … Read more
We stayed at The Cliffs Hotel and Spa and Pismo beach for a family wedding. What a beautiful location. Room was well appointed, great space snd furnishings. Restaurant and bar were great good food , excellent drinks. I want to commend the excellent customer service from all staff. Friendly and professional. I particularly want to mention Aaron Connor for his warm personable service. He was welcoming from the moment we arrived and was accommodating when we had a problem with the corners of out bed . I want to add that this is a perfect wedding venue. Thanks to all who made our stay so great! Read less