Cottage Inn by the Sea

Well-named and exuding the requisite charm, Cottage Inn by the Sea is situated in a two-story tan building with a timber-frame facade, stone accents, and a roof that almost theatrically rounds at the edges for a classic fairy-tale look. The bluff-top location affords stunning views of the beach (which is accessible via stairway), Pismo Pier, and the cliffs of Avila Beach. Guests often spend their time taking in views from outdoor nooks, though the back of the property facing the sea draws some foot traffic from guests at other nearby hotels. Decor inside the hotel is homey and contemporary, with a neutral color palette relying heavily on tans and creams. The cozy but stylish lobby features a velvety gray couch, tufted ottomans, and a fireplace with a stone hearth. While the cushy vibe attracts a big share of vacationing couples, with guest rooms for two to four guests, families find their way here, too.

Cottage Inn by the Sea is located directly off the freeway on a stretch of bluffs overlooking the ocean and lined with other hotels. The Cottage Inn offers direct beach access via a fairly steep stairway. So while it’s a quick jaunt, it’s not particularly leisurely, nor is it handicap accessible. Pismo Pier, where people come to fish, surf, and take in views, is about a five-minute drive, while the restaurants and shops of downtown Pismo Beach are even closer, three or four minutes away. Ventana Grill, a well-liked restaurant, is just a five-minute walk. Guests can also walk along the beach to Pismo Pier in about 20 minutes. San Luis Obispo O'Sullivan County Regional Airport is a 15-minute drive. On-site parking is free.

Like the lobby area, guest rooms offer cozy, contemporary decor in a palette of creams and beiges. Wicker chairs, bamboo roll-up blinds, and rustic wood accents (like wood-plank headboards and shutter-door TV cabinets) offer country-beach charm. Rooms are spacious, and every one has a fireplace with a little stone hearth, a desk, and a small sitting area with a table. Bathrooms are pleasant, if average and on the small side, decked out in white walls, combination showers and tubs, and a decent amount of counter space. Hallways also hold nooks with mini-fridges, microwaves, and Keurig coffeemakers. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, plus hairdryers, irons and ironing boards, and safes. Bathrobes also feel like a particularly luxe touch at this pearl level, and high-end individual toiletries also come standard. (The hotel's site advertises Molton Brown, though we were happy with our C.O. Bigelow.) That said, there are some downsides: Ceiling fans are provided in lieu of air-conditioning, and some guests complain about spotty Wi-Fi. During our stay, we noticed a few things not quite ship-shape (a bathroom door in need of a paint job, a rickety ceiling fan), but overall our room was clean and well-kept.Rooms are available with either one or two queen- or king-sized beds, and some ground floor rooms have patio areas. Non-View Rooms may simply face the parking lot. While beach-facing rooms are ideal -- the views can be spectacular -- guest should keep in mind that those staggering sunsets do draw lots of foot traffic nearby.

A huge highlight of Cottage Inn by the Sea is its outdoor spaces, which include a sandy but cheerfully landscape garden area with floral accents where beach chairs surround fire pits, and Adirondack chairs look out over the beautiful beach scene. While the garden area is hotel property, guests should note that it is also part of the pathway crossing through several hotels in the area leading to the beach-access stairway. Another thing to note: The walk to the beach is steep, though it's also quick.The hotel's outdoor pool is serviceable, but not spectacular, with a concrete deck, a dotting of lounge chairs, and views more of the parking lot than the sea. Tucked in the far corner, the whirlpool offers better views. For meals, the property serves a free breakfast buffet featuring standard fare like hardboiled eggs, breads, cereals, and make-your-own waffles. Guests can eat in the cozy kitchen-like dining room or outside. Guests also report fresh-baked cookies at check-in -- a welcoming treat. But be aware that this property has no full-service restaurant, bar, or gym. There is, however, a computer for guest use along with free Wi-Fi, and on-site parking is free as well.