Motel 6 San Luis Obispo North

This budget property is situated in a typical motel-style building comprising two stories and exterior hallways overlooking the parking lot. Rates are low, but they come at a cost -- guests complain of cleanliness issues and there's not much here in terms of features. Nevertheless, it's an adequate choice for one-night stays for those looking to save some money. Guests should note that weekend rates and the summer season tend to be much higher and many deem them overpriced.

Common spaces are limited to a small and functional lobby, which is equipped with a couple of vending machines and tourist brochure racks. A flat-screen TV offers entertainment, but there are only two chairs for seating. Orange accent walls save the space from total monotony, while Motel 6 signage appears on the walls and front desk. Free morning coffee is a nice touch. The only other common area for guests to gather in is the outdoor pool, which is pleasant enough and offers seating on a surrounding pool deck.

The motel is situated on the outskirts of San Luis Obispo, off of Route 101. There are a couple of car dealerships in the area, while a three-minute drive down the road leads to shops like a Whole Foods Market, Target, and a handful of dining options like the Olive Garden and Panda Express. The city center is about a 10-minute drive away, where guests will find more restaurants, bars, and shops. Area attractions include the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, a 1700s Spanish mission and museum, Bubblegum Alley, and the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art. Morro Bay, with its picturesque Morro Bay Rock and state park, is about a 20-minute drive away. San Luis Obispo is located about midway between Los Angeles (three-hour drive) and San Francisco (four-hour drive) and their respective international airports. The San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport is an eight-minute drive from the hotel.

Rooms are rather small in size, though suites offer more space and seating areas. The spaces are bright thanks to vivid orange walls, curtains, and bed runners. The tangerine hues are paired with wood-effect floors and simple furniture that includes desks and nightstands. It's all very basic and fairly bare-bones, and guests should note that there have been complaints of cleanliness and maintenance issues. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, plus some rooms add microwaves and fridges, but Wi-Fi incurs a fee. Suites have living rooms furnished with sofas and armchairs. Bathrooms are also basic and due for an update. They're equipped with showers or shower/tub combos, and only soap bars are provided. Bring your own shampoo and hairdryer. 

This budget motel doesn't offer much in terms of perks or amenities. There's a small outdoor pool that's pleasant enough, with a deck lined with a couple of loungers and umbrella-shaded tables and chairs. Other amenities include free outdoor parking and free morning coffee in the lobby. Kids under 17 stay for free. Wi-Fi incurs an extra fee; there are two options available (basic and premium Wi-Fi) at different prices.