Valentina Suites

A quick glance at the facade of Valentina Suites says a lot: the building's exterior -- comprised of wrought iron balconies, a red tile roof, and white stucco -- is flanked by desert plants and palms to give the building a relaxed, Spanish villa flair. Light fills the small lobby, which has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere and is set with brown wicker couches across light tan tile, a motif repeated throughout the property. Potted plants and vibrant Mexican-influenced tile-work give the space and hallways a tranquil charm, and the small seating area in the lobby has wrought-iron window grates letting in the ocean breezes. The property's higher floors have decent Pacific views, and the overall effect is of entering a high-end, laid-back, ocean-side condo, a vibe that draws plenty of families and couples.

Situated right in downtown Pismo beach right off US 101, these Suites are within walking distance of the town's charming cafes and restaurants. The main draw, though, is the beach, which is only a five-minute walk from the property. Pismo Beach Pier is a major hub of activity for locals and tourists alike, and only takes seven minutes to reach on foot, and the area is crammed with shops of all kinds. Iconic Hearst Castle is a great day trip for families and couples with interests in architecture or history, and it's an hour drive up the coast. Though not as famous as the wineries to the north, there are plenty of wineries in the area, including Pismo Beach Winery, right in the heart of town, a 15-minute walk from the property. The Monarch Butterfly Grove and Prime Outlets Pismo Beach are a five-minute drive, while the Avila Beach Golf Resort and the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport can both be reached in 15 minutes by car. 

The huge One-, Two-, and Three-Bedroom Suites are homey and comfortable with plenty of modern conveniences, like full stainless steel kitchens and excellent bathrooms. The Suites' common areas have typical California-coastal decor, with dark, mission-style furniture and dining sets as well as overstuffed brown sofa beds set about tan tile floors. Several large windows let in plenty of natural light and full kitchens with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops have dishwashers, full-size refrigerators, gas ranges, microwaves, coffeemakers, and a breakfast bar with seating. Washer/dryers are hidden in closets, adding value to a stay here, especially for families. Bedrooms are decorated in earth tones with dark wood headboards, light walls, tan carpet, and green bed runners, and many are large enough to include work desks or even fireplaces. Depending on the type of Suite booked, some also include tiled balconies and patios (though not all views are stunning as this is a downtown Pismo Beach property), fireplaces, and many bedrooms have walk-in closets. However, all suites include large flat-screen TVs, safes, and free coffee and tea. The wall art throughout guest rooms is colorful, but the Mediterranean/Venetian scenes are an odd choice given the amazing local artists up and down the California coast that could've added decor to the rooms. Contemporary tan tiled bathrooms feature bathtub/shower combos or beautiful, mosaic-tiled walk-in shower, with dark granite vanities, and high-end Judith Jackson toiletries.

With its emphasis on condo-style living and an authentic home-like atmosphere, there aren't many public features for guests here, but the one glaring omission is a pool. The property does offer a small barbecue area with three grills on an outdoor terrace for guests who'd really like to capture that by-the-beach, outdoorsy feeling. The front desk is staffed 24/7 and Valentina Suites is GreenLeaders certified for their sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Wi-Fi is free throughout and there is free, on-site garage parking as well.