Shore Cliff Hotel

The staff were attentive throughout, and the complimentary breakfast was great. Our room was turned down while we were out, and the location has lovely views and a walking path. In the end, we had a very nice stay, though I wish the hotel had been clearer about room availability and the renovation before we arrived. The construction could mean noise, so be prepared for that. I booked a deluxe oceanfront room through Expedia for a weekend at premium rates, but we were assigned a first-floor room. The receptionist described it as a beach view with the pier, which wasn't what I'd reserved. She offered a $30 discount but didn't mention it until I asked about the room. We arrived late and didn't want the hassle of cancelling and finding somewhere else on a weekend, so we stayed. The room was small, lacked a sofa bed and didn't feel deluxe. It faced another hotel, where we could hear people in the pool. With the balcony on the first floor, opening the sliding doors for the view would have meant little privacy. I went back to ask for a different room, but apparently the hotel was fully booked. I learned they were in the middle of a major renovation, which wasn't mentioned on Expedia or Shore Cliff’s website. Since we booked through Expedia, the receptionist said there wasn't much she could do beyond the $30 per night discount she'd already offered and waiving the $15 nightly parking fee. She also offered a complimentary bottle of wine. Those adjustments came to about $100 off our original booking.

The receptionist who welcomed us was incredibly kind and helpful, and her dinner suggestions were a nice bonus. The stay was still rough: ants were on the bed and throughout the bathroom, and construction in the building across from us woke us up. Staff were also yelling in the hallway before 8 am on Sunday. The people were great, but the ants and noise really weren't.

The staff were friendly and check-in was quick. Our third-floor room was small but cozy, with a comfortable bed, a nice balcony, and a partial ocean view. It was quiet except for faint freeway traffic. There are pleasant walkways around the property and a gazebo lookout at the cliff edge with lovely views. Restaurants are nearby, and downtown Pismo and Shell Beach are about a two-minute drive away. I've stayed at a couple of nearby hotels that are also nice, but I think I prefer this one now. It's in a beautiful location and easy to get to.

Kim made the anniversary stay unforgettable. She helped book us a suite, offered it for the occasion, and arranged a proposal at the hotel's gazebo viewpoint, where we had a perfect sunset to ask the love of my life to marry me. The staff were accommodating and welcoming throughout. It was my first time in a suite, and it was perfect, with a great ocean view toward the pier. There's also a heated pool and jacuzzi, a great complimentary breakfast, and a breathtaking view. This is one of my new favorite places to stay. 10/10, I'd recommend it for a celebration or any occasion.