Cambria has an impossibly scenic location off the Pacific Coast Highway, halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Surrounded by stunning surf beaches and a forest of Monterey pines, the stimulating sea air also seems to inspire the creative arts and there’s also a charming collection of places to stay. From cottages among the pines and beach houses to boutique inns with fanciful names. Here are my favorite cool and trendy hotels in Cambria, California…



Cambria Beach Lodge
The Cambria Beach Lodge became one of my favorite places to immerse myself in the allure of surf, wine, and enchanting Californian sunsets. During my stay, I had the pleasure of exploring lavishly decorated suites, including Deluxe King and Deluxe Queen options, as well as Ocean View suites and the opulent beach house.
I absolutely love the beach house, which captivated me with its dramatic charm and breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The suites, bathed in Californian sunshine, featured delightful nautical-themed decor, sun-bleached wooden floors, luxurious amenities, and bohemian turquoise tones that added to the coastal vibe.
While visiting, I couldn’t help but appreciate the lodge’s ideal location, surrounded by the finest dining establishments, antique shops, heritage sites, and hiking trails. It truly offered the perfect setting for a wholesome Cambria experience.
Pros
Stylish hotel with retro-chic vibe
Free breakfast and loaner bikes
Rooms with fireplaces and ocean views
Rooftop deck with coastline views
Cons
Some rooms are small
Inadequate soundproofing
On the pricey side
White Water

The White Water, nestled in Cambria, is one of my favorite places—a unique boutique hotel that exudes luxury. During my stay, I loved the tastefully decorated suites and the convenience of being close to the enchanting Moonstone Beach Boardwalk.
While visiting, I immersed myself in the heart of beachside action, enjoying the vibrant energy of downtown villages and the stunning views of state parks. The experience was heightened by the fact that this non-smoking accommodation boasts a variety of mid-sized and luxurious suites.
While staying at the White Water, I was captivated by the elegant furniture, delightful AESOP bath amenities, and the temptation of indulgent minibars in the rooms. The attention to detail added to the overall charm of my stay.
I must say, the White Water offers more than just a place to rest; it provides an idyllic setting inspired by the sunny Californian aesthetic and the natural diversity of landscapes along the Pacific Coastline.
Pros
Free in-room continental breakfast
Sleek rooms with gas fireplaces
Stunning ocean and mountain views
Garden and hot tub for relaxation
Cons
No fitness center
No microwave in rooms
Cots not available
Oceanpoint Ranch

Oceanpoint Ranch is one of my favorite places, perfect for those who crave the simplicity and serenity of the seaside. Nestled along the stunning coast of Moonstone Beach, this rustic-chic ranch spans 9 acres, creating an oasis of comfort and rejuvenation.
While visiting, I loved the earthy and unpretentious farmhouse-style interior. The recent renovations brought impressive additions like dramatic animal prints, vaulted wood ceilings, and rich leather inserts, enhancing the overall charm.
During my stay, I enjoyed exploring a private beach trail, adding to the allure of this coastal retreat. The expansive lawn was a lifesaver for families, providing a perfect space to entertain little ones.
One highlight of my experience was dining at the in-house Canteen. I tried their breakfast, lunch, and dinner specialties, all homemade with a delightful traditional twist.
Pros
Rooms with fireplaces and patios
Heated pool and garden with gazebo
Coastline garden or golf views
A croquet and shuffleboard games
Cons
No elevators
Rooms are slightly dark
Closed on Mondays
El Colibri Hotel & Spa

El Colibri Hotel & Spa is one of my favorite places to experience the wonders of the Central Coast. I love this Tuscan-inspired luxury accommodation for its prime location, nestled in the heart of it all.
While visiting, I explored the spacious rooms and suites, each adorned with elegant furniture, and fireplaces, and adorned with fine linens. The luxury bathrooms and modern appliances added a touch of indulgence to my stay.
While staying at this enchanting place, I tried the in-house Nest Spa, where private treatment rooms, steam rooms, and an outdoor jacuzzi awaited. I experienced pure relaxation while taking in the breathtaking views of the Big Sur Mountains and the California coastline. Unlike other accommodations near Moonstone Beach, El Colibri truly offers a sophisticated and upscale experience.
Immersing myself in oceanside splendors and outdoor adventures was a delight, and the option to delve into the fascinating history of the Paso Robles wine country added an extra layer of enjoyment to my stay.
Pros
Upscale rooms with stone details
Soaking tubs and wet bars
California-style tapas served on-site
Wine bar and a high-end day spa
Cons
Slight street noise
No swimming pool
No in-room safe
Cambria Landing Inn and Suites
Exploring hotels for a romantic escape along the California coastline? Look no further than Cambria Landing Inn, one of my favorite places. Nestled between verdant hills and the Pacific Coastline, it’s a haven for ocean lovers and honeymooners.
Situated a stone’s throw from Moonstone Beach, this Inn offers breathtaking views of the ocean, hills, and iconic landmarks from its guest rooms and luxury suites. During my stay, I fell in love with the exclusive Ocean View Whirlpool Spa Suites – perfect for a romantic getaway.
While staying at Cambria Landing Inn, I immersed myself in the central location, allowing me to fill my days with cultural experiences and outdoor adventures.
Pros
Ocean views from private balconies
Free daily wine reception
Free coffee and tea available
Whirlpool tubs and hot tubs
Cons
Breakfast is not included
Staff unavailable at night
Cats not allowed
Fireside Inn on Moonstone Beach

The Fireside Inn became one of my favorite places for a perfect escape. I love this boutique gem nestled along Moonstone Beach. While visiting, I experienced the charm of its recently renovated rooms with a distinct Californian vibe, seamlessly blending with the breathtaking coastline.
Staying in the beachside suites felt like a dream – wooden fireplaces, private patios, and jetted bathtubs added luxury to my getaway. The oversized beds were indulgently comfortable, making me feel truly pampered.
While staying at this homely haven, I cherished moments of privacy on my own terrace, immersing myself in the scenic beauty. Exploring nearby attractions was a breeze from this centrally-located spot.
Pros
Private patios with ocean views
Free fresh fruit and cookies
An all-year heated outdoor pool
Direct beach access from hotel
Cons
Cash is not accepted
Some rooms lack views
Not pet-friendly
Sea Otter Inn
Sea Otter Inn is one of my favorite places to experience Cambria’s oceanfront lifestyle. While visiting, I reveled in the peaceful and picturesque setting, genuinely immersing myself in the seaside charm and tranquility. The old-world beauty of the Inn, accentuated by personal touches and dedicated staff, made my stay memorable.
Each morning, I loved starting my day with a scrumptious breakfast from the picnic basket served to guests. The lobby, warm and inviting, carried the delightful scent of freshly baked cookies that added to the homely atmosphere.
Staying at Sea Otter Inn felt like an authentic beachside vacation, complete with traditional Californian hospitality and breathtaking ocean views. As a pet-friendly hotel, it offered a variety of rooms and suites. The heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and fire pits added to the overall experience, creating a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation.
Pros
Featuring ocean or garden views
French doors opening garden patios
Heated outdoor pool and hot tub
Free continental breakfast is served
Cons
No restaurant on-site
Few payment options
Noisy air con
Cambria Pines Lodge
The Cambria Pines Lodge became one of my favorite places, nestled in a stunning coastal landscape that provided a tranquil seaside retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.
While visiting, I discovered the lodge’s proximity to the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve and Moonstone Beach, all set against 25 acres of captivating gardens and a dense pine forest.
My stay at this boutique hotel was enchanting, with various guest rooms and suites adorned in a rustic chic décor inspired by the countryside, complete with modern amenities. I loved indulging in resort-like luxuries, including a heated outdoor pool, a soothing hot tub, a rejuvenating day spa, and a cutting-edge business center.
One of the highlights was the Cambria Pines Lodge Restaurant, where I experienced an extensive menu featuring traditional Californian and continental cuisine.
Pros
Restaurant with a kitchen garden
Lounge with nightly entertainment
Volleyball court and nature trails
Heated outdoor pool and hot tub
Cons
Crowded during breakfast
Restaurant slightly overpriced
Poor sound insulation system
The Rigdon House
The Rigdon House is one of my favorite places to immerse myself in the enchanting historic charm of Cambria. Its revered status as a landmark since 1865 adds to the allure.
While visiting this vibrant downtown gem, I loved the rare Victorian architectural magnificence and vintage-themed interiors. The atmosphere is simply captivating.
During my stay, I experienced the charm of spacious two-bedroom accommodations, each spanning over 600 square feet. The suites were tastefully decorated, boasting elegant furniture and modern appliances.
Opting for a luxury suite, I found it to be a haven of privacy with thoughtful child-friendly amenities, making it perfect for families. What I particularly enjoyed was the convenience of being surrounded by fine dining establishments, art galleries, and boutiques, creating the ideal setting for an authentic Cambrian experience.
Pros
Living rooms with whirlpool tubs
Garden patio and a library
Airy suites with vintage vibes
Popular city attractions nearby
Cons
No swimming pool
Slightly thin walls
No spa or fitness center
J Patrick Inn
The J Patrick Inn quickly became one of my favorite places for a home away from home. The seven tastefully decorated guest rooms felt like my own cozy haven, blending home-like warmth with hotel-like opulence.
While visiting, I loved the convenience of modern amenities, from the flat-screen TV with Chromecast to the handy refrigerator and coffee maker. Outdoor seating added a nice touch to my experience. There’s even a private, two-story vacation home, perfect for an extended stay.
While staying at this inviting inn, I indulged in a delightful complimentary breakfast each morning. It was the perfect fuel for exploring nearby attractions like the East Village and the Cambria Historical Museum. This place truly made my vacation memorable.
Pros
Free full breakfast is provided
Free nightly milk and cookies
A daily evening wine hour
Come with wood-burning fireplaces
Cons
No air conditioning
Early morning breakfast
No rollaway beds available
Olallieberry Inn Bed and Breakfast
One of my favorite places, the Olallieberry Inn, completely redefines the classic bed and breakfast experience. Nestled in an 1865 Victorian home, it is one of Cambria’s oldest buildings, creating a charming blend of history and modern comforts.
While visiting this boutique hotel, I fell in love with its romantic setting along the banks of Santa Rosa Creek. Surrounded by lush gardens adorned with vibrant blooms, it’s a tranquil haven. Exploring the various suites and rooms, I discovered modern amenities seamlessly integrated with tasteful furniture.
I couldn’t resist trying the renowned in-house restaurant led by the celebrated Chef Dirk. I experienced the sheer delight of a lavish three-course gourmet breakfast, and Chef Dirk’s unique pastries left a lasting impression.
Pros
Warm rooms with antique furniture
Free hot breakfast is served
Fireplaces and wainscoting in rooms
Lush landscaped garden with seats
Cons
Smoking is not allowed
No extra beds
Slow breakfast serving
The Squibb House
Nestled in the heart of Cambria, A R Squibb House became one of my favorite places. It’s a rare gem among charming historic hotels, housed in an 1800 Victorian home. The love for culture, community, and history is palpable in every corner.
While visiting, I fell in love with the opulent charm that radiates through this accommodation. The parlors, guest rooms, and suites are tastefully decorated, echoing a distinct old-world allure. The gardens add to the enchantment, creating a serene atmosphere.
I marveled at the wide plank floors, the carefully chosen Amish furniture, and the well-lit spaces adorned with barn wood beams. The Black Barn, a retreat-like haven, captured my heart. It boasts four luxury rooms, each adorned with a fireplace. The sprawling seating area and private balconies/patios offer a perfect blend of luxury and tranquility. This place truly exceeded my expectations.
Pros
Continental breakfast served in room
Fireplaces with a seating space
Gift shop located next door
Free board games and tours
Cons
No air conditioning
Slight street noise
No TV in rooms
Her Castle Bed and Breakfast
I adore Her Castle—a lavishly opulent B&B nestled in the heart of a verdant forest, surrounded by 400 acres of nature preserve and a breathtaking ¾-mile stretch of the Pacific Ocean.
It’s one of my favorite places, regularly receiving Trip Advisor’s Green Award for eco-conscious sustainability. Staying here is an award-winning experience, ideally situated for a splendidly scenic escape.
While visiting, I loved the distinct living-in-the-wilderness vibe that didn’t disconnect me from the heart of the action and entertainment.
The guest rooms and suites, elegantly decorated, provided an intensely comfortable retreat. Yet, what stole the show for me was the stunning botanical garden laden with rare species of fruit-bearing and flowering trees.
Pros
Set among lush landscaped gardens
Free American morning meal daily
Cozy suites feature private decks
Free morning coffee and pastries
Cons
Pets are not allowed
No rollaway beds
No on-site restaurant
Pelican Inn & Suites
Pelican Inn & Suites quickly became one of my favorite places, a luxury oceanfront retreat blending contemporary amenities with chic coastal-themed interiors. While visiting this haven, I fell in love with its laid-back atmosphere, which truly inspired my adventurous spirit.
During my stay at the Pelican, I experienced their commitment to highly personalized hospitality. The courteous staff, known for their diligent housekeeping, paid meticulous attention to every detail. I explored various suites, from standard rooms to king-sized rooms, ocean-view suites, pet-friendly accommodations, and family suites.
Whether you’re a honeymooner, vacationer, part of a large family, or a business traveler, Pelican Inn & Suites caters to everyone. Its central location, modern amenities, and remarkable ability to personalize guest experiences make it the perfect choice for any traveler.
Pros
Rooms with patios and fireplaces
Free tasting passes to wineries
Heated outdoor pool and a hot tub
Balconies with ocean views
Cons
Small seating area
Limited parking space
No coffeemaker in rooms
Cambria Treehouse
One of my favorite places, the Cambria Treehouse, is a magical escape like no other. Just a 19-minute walk from Moonstone Beach, this whimsical retreat boasts two beautifully adorned bedrooms, two bathrooms, a dining area, a high-tech kitchen, and a private patio with breathtaking sea views.
While visiting, I fell in love with the family-friendly setup, featuring modern appliances, a TV, and a playground for the little ones. The large windows in the treehouse bathed the space in warmth and sunlight, providing enchanting views of the beach and downtown attractions.
During my stay, I tried the cozy fireplace and flat-screen TV in the main living room, and I also enjoyed the second living area’s inviting reading nook, complete with a comfy sofa and a well-stocked bookshelf.
Pros
Chic balcony with sea views
Hot tub with mountain views
Fireplace with movies and bookshelf
Cocktails at the wood table
Cons
No swimming pool
Cash is not accepted
No restaurant on site
All Hotels In Cambria Ranked
In the table below, we have compared the top 15 Cool and Trendy Hotels in Cambria 2023. You can sort the table based on different factors like location, distance from attractions, price per night, and restaurants nearby:
Hotel Name Location Price Range (per night) Fitness Facilities Distance to Attraction(km) Nearby Restaurants
The Rigdon House 4022 Burton Drive $149-$288 No 1.2 12
J Patrick Inn 2990 Burton Drive, $156-$168 No 0.6 15
Sea Otter Inn 6656 Moonstone Beach Drive $179-$314 Yes 0.2 15
Oceanpoint Ranch 7200 Moonstone Beach Drive $208-$232 Yes 0.5 3
Cambria Landing Inn and Suites 6530 Moonstone Beach Drive $220-$318 Yes 0.1 13
Cambria Beach Lodge 6180 Moonstone Beach Drive $247-$269 No 0.1 6
Pelican Inn & Suites 6316 Moonstone Beach Drive $252-$406 No 0.1 8
Fireside Inn on Moonstone Beach 6700 Moonstone Beach Drive $256-$381 No 0.2 13
El Colibri Hotel & Spa 5620 Moonstone Beach Drive $269-$360 Yes 0.1 9
Olallieberry Inn Bed and Breakfast 2476 Main Street $290-$316 No 1.3 7
The Squibb Houses 4063 Burton Drive $290-$354 No 1.3 11
Cambria Pines Lodge 2905 Burton Drive $292-$315 Yes 0.7 16
Her Castle Bed and Breakfast 1978 Londonderry Lane $330-$380 (2 nights) No 0.6 16
White Water 6736 Moonstone Beach Dr $412-$784 No 0.3 5
Cambria Treehouse Cambria, 93428 $1322 (4 nights) No 1.1 3
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Becky Moore – Owner, writer and photographer
My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.
I’ve been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic, The Times, Yahoo Travel, Huffington Post, Business Insider, Thrillist, British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur, express.co.uk, Wanderlust, Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and metro.co.uk. Find me on Linkedin or Facebook.
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