Sea Otter Inn

This family-owned and operated Inn has a casual California vibe, with picture-perfect ocean views setting the tone. Pretty pink Adirondack-style chairs are strategically positioned to take in vistas, set on lovely grounds covered with flowering plans and mature trees. It’s common to see couples enjoying a glass of wine while taking in the majestic sunsets that cast a warm glow on the property. The tiny lobby has a charming, country cottage feel, with green-striped wallpaper and wood floors. As a nod to the hotel's name, there's a photo of two cute sea otters behind the desk. It's a peaceful place for romantic getaways, but families frequent it as well. 

The Sea Otter Inn is situated on a quiet road that hugs the coast, across the street from Moonstone Beach and its boardwalk. Highway 1 runs behind the property, which is flanked by other hotels. A full-service restaurant is a two-minute walk away, and Cambria's numerous shops and restaurants are a five-minute drive. Iconic Hearst Castle is an 11-minute drive, and the Friends of the Elephant Seal observation point is seven minutes by car. It's about a 35-minute drive to culture-rich San Luis Obispo and to the wineries near Paso Robles. 

All guest rooms feature gas fireplaces and are decorated in a traditional style that includes floral-print drapes, upholstered furniture with damask patterns and a blond-wood finish, and muted earth tones. Floral- or nature-themed artwork adds subtle pops of brighter colors. The biggest drawback is that rooms lack AC, but they're tidy and quiet, with plenty of space for armchairs, desks, and oval tables with two chairs. Some offer lovely private patios with seating. Standard amenities includes flat-screen TVs, microwaves, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, and free Wi-Fi. Suites with separate bedrooms and living rooms that have sleeper sofas are also available. Standard rooms come in King and Double-Queen options, with views of the garden or ocean. Bathrooms are average in size, but they were upgraded in 2016. They contain walk-in showers with glass doors and nice tiling, plus hairdryers and toiletries, and Suites add second bathrooms. 

The Sea Otter Inn has limited features, but there are thoughtful extras that can make a stay memorable. Guests are offered a free continental breakfast delivered to rooms, which includes breakfast burritos, yogurt, fruit, and fresh-baked pastries from a local bakery. There's no full-service restaurant, but free coffee and fresh-baked cookies are available all day, and vending machines are on-site. The Inn also sells wine and champagne by the bottle, along with souvenirs like clothing and coffee mugs. The hotel doesn't have a fitness center, but a heated outdoor pool and whirlpool is situated in a private, fenced area with loungers and covered tables. The pool is large enough for a decent swim, and it's open year-round. Parking, Wi-Fi, and daily newspapers are free, and the Inn has charging stations for electric vehicles. Pets are welcome in designated rooms with a surcharge.