Question 1

What is the best area to stay in San Luis Obispo?

Accepted Answer

The best area to stay in San Luis Obispo is Downtown, especially for those seeking a central and walkable experience.

Downtown San Luis Obispo is the city's lively core, centred around Higuera Street and Monterey Street. Here, you'll find a mix of independent boutiques, art galleries, and a wide array of eateries, from casual cafes to upscale dining. The historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, a beautiful landmark, sits at the heart of Downtown, alongside the scenic San Luis Obispo Creek.

For couples, Downtown offers a wonderful blend of convenience and charm. You can easily stroll hand-in-hand along the creek path, enjoy wine tasting at local establishments, and catch a show at the historic Fremont Theater. The area's evening dining options and intimate cafes make it great for romantic evenings.

Families will also find Downtown appealing due to its accessibility and varied activities. Children will enjoy exploring Mission Plaza, and the proximity to the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum provides a fun and educational outing.

Question 2

What are the best hotels in San Luis Obispo that travellers recommend?

Accepted Answer

For highly recommended hotels in San Luis Obispo, consider the Hotel San Luis Obispo, Madonna Inn, HOTEL CERRO, Autograph Collection, San Luis Creek Lodge, and Granada Hotel & Bistro.

The Hotel San Luis Obispo, boasting an impressive 9.4 rating, is praised for its convenient location and comfortable rooms with premium bedding and Egyptian cotton sheets. Guests appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, the great bar, and the well-equipped gym. It is very close to Mission Plaza and the San Luis Obispo County Library.

The Madonna Inn, an establishment with a 9.2 rating, offers unique and beautiful rooms, some with fireplaces and mountain views. Travellers enjoy the on-site outdoor tennis facilities, the poolside bar, and the great spa. The friendly staff and delicious food are frequently highlighted.

Another excellent option is the HOTEL CERRO, Autograph Collection, rated 9.2. This hotel is in a central location, close to Mission Plaza and the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum. Guests often mention the friendly and helpful staff, as well as amenities like a poolside bar and private winery tours.

The San Luis Creek Lodge, with a 9.4 rating, is known for its beautiful and clean rooms featuring deep soaking bathtubs, designer toiletries, and premium bedding. The staff are frequently described as friendly and great, and the overall design of the hotel is well-received.

Finally, the Granada Hotel & Bistro, rated 9.2, is in a perfect, central location, close to the San Luis Obispo County Library and Mission Plaza. Guests consistently compliment the exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, the beautiful and luxurious rooms with premium bedding, and the nice bar.

Question 3

What are the best family hotels in San Luis Obispo?

Accepted Answer

For family-friendly accommodation in San Luis Obispo, consider the Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo, Madonna Inn, or Courtyard by Marriott San Luis Obispo.

The Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo, with an 8.8 rating, is well-suited for families. It offers complimentary cribs and rollaway beds, connecting rooms, and a swimming pool. Guests frequently mention the great breakfast, nice clean rooms, and friendly staff. It is conveniently located near Madonna Plaza Shopping Centre and Sunset Drive-In Theatre.

The Madonna Inn, rated 9.2, is another excellent option for families. This hotel provides kids' meals, sofa beds, and a swimming pool. Reviews often highlight the beautiful and unique rooms, friendly staff, and delicious food. It is situated close to Madonna Plaza Shopping Centre and Laguna Lake Park.

The Courtyard by Marriott San Luis Obispo, with an 8.6 rating, also caters to families. It features a swimming pool, complimentary cribs, sofa beds, and connecting rooms. Customers often praise the nice clean rooms, friendly staff, and excellent breakfast. It is located near Johnson Ranch Open Space and Laguna Lake Park. Find more child-friendly accommodations in San Luis Obispo

Question 4

What are the best spa hotels in San Luis Obispo?

Accepted Answer

For excellent spa hotels in San Luis Obispo, consider HOTEL CERRO, Autograph Collection, Madonna Inn, and Hotel San Luis Obispo.

The HOTEL CERRO, Autograph Collection, with an impressive 9.2 rating, offers a full-service spa with a wide range of treatments including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, aromatherapy, and hot stone massage. Guests can also enjoy body treatments, body scrubs, and facials, with couples treatment rooms available for a shared experience. The hotel's steam room is an added luxury. Guests frequently praise its central location and helpful staff.

Another highly-rated option is the Madonna Inn, which also boasts a 9.2 rating. Its onsite spa provides a variety of services such as body wraps, facial treatments, deep tissue massage, and aromatherapy. Couples treatment rooms are available, and hot stone massage and Swedish massage are also offered. The spa is accessible and operates daily. Guests often remark on the beautiful and unique rooms, friendly staff, delicious food, and amazing pool. This hotel is conveniently located just 0.5 km from Madonna Plaza Shopping Centre.

The Hotel San Luis Obispo, rated 9.4, features a full-service spa that is accessible and offers a hot tub, sauna, and a range of massages including deep tissue, hot stone, Swedish, and sports massage. Body scrubs, body treatments, and facial treatments are also available, along with couples treatment rooms. The spa operates daily. Guests appreciate the friendly staff, comfortable rooms, convenient location, and great bar and gym facilities.

Question 5

What hotels in San Luis Obispo offer free breakfast?

Accepted Answer

For hotels in San Luis Obispo offering complimentary breakfast, consider the Garden Street Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel, the Petit Soleil, the Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo, and the San Luis Creek Lodge.

The Garden Street Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel, with an excellent 9.2 rating, provides a delicious cooked breakfast free of charge. This hotel is also praised for its beautiful and clean rooms, and is conveniently located near the San Luis Obispo County Library and Mission Plaza.

Petit Soleil, rated 9.8, offers a full breakfast as part of your stay. Guests consistently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, the comfortable rooms, and its great location, being just a short distance from Mission Plaza and Bubblegum Alley.

The Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo, with a 9.4 rating, includes a free buffet breakfast. This hotel is known for its spacious and clean rooms, convenient location, and easy parking. It is within a kilometre of the San Luis Obispo County Library.

Another great option is the San Luis Creek Lodge, which has a 9.4 rating and provides a free continental breakfast. Guests appreciate the beautiful and clean rooms and the friendly staff.

Question 6

What are the top pet-friendly hotels in San Luis Obispo?

Accepted Answer

For top pet-friendly hotels in San Luis Obispo, consider HOTEL CERRO, Autograph Collection, and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown.

The HOTEL CERRO, Autograph Collection, rated 9.2, is an excellent choice for those travelling with dogs. It provides food and water bowls and boasts a full-service spa offering Swedish, deep tissue, and hot stone massages, as well as body scrubs and wraps. Its central location places it just 0.1 km from Mission Plaza.

Another highly-rated option is the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown, with a 9.0 rating. This hotel welcomes both dogs and cats and is praised for its spacious and clean rooms, as well as its great breakfast. It is conveniently located 1.6 km from Mission Plaza.

Question 7

What are the best budget hotels in San Luis Obispo?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in San Luis Obispo, consider the Hampton Inn & Suites San Luis Obispo, Best Western Plus Royal Oak Hotel, Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo, La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection, and Sands Inn & Suites.

The Hampton Inn & Suites San Luis Obispo, with an 8.8 rating, offers free self-parking, complimentary breakfast, and free WiFi. Guests frequently mention the clean, quiet rooms and the friendly, helpful staff. It is conveniently located near Johnson Ranch Open Space and Laguna Lake Park.

Another excellent choice is the Best Western Plus Royal Oak Hotel, rated 8.6. This hotel provides free breakfast, free self-parking, and free WiFi. Customers often praise the clean, quiet rooms, comfortable beds, and friendly staff. It is close to Laguna Lake Park and the Sunset Drive-In Theatre.

The Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo boasts an impressive 9.4 rating. This hotel offers free buffet breakfast, free self-parking, and free WiFi. Guests appreciate the spacious, clean rooms, friendly staff, and convenient location. It is within easy reach of the San Luis Obispo County Library and Mission Plaza.

La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection, with an 8.8 rating, includes a complimentary continental breakfast, free toiletries, and free self-parking. Visitors frequently comment on the comfortable, clean rooms and the great staff. It is located near the San Luis Obispo County Library and Mission Plaza.

Finally, the Sands Inn & Suites, rated 8.0, provides free breakfast, free self-parking, and free WiFi. Guests often highlight the comfortable, clean rooms and the delicious breakfast. It is situated close to the San Luis Obispo County Library and Mission Plaza. View all budget hotels in San Luis Obispo

Question 8

What are the most romantic hotels in San Luis Obispo for couples?

Accepted Answer

For a romantic stay in San Luis Obispo, couples should consider the Hotel San Luis Obispo, Madonna Inn, or Petit Soleil.

The Hotel San Luis Obispo, with an excellent rating of 9.4, offers a full-service spa with a hot tub and couples' treatment rooms, great for a relaxing experience together. Many guests appreciate the convenient location and comfortable, amazing rooms.

The Madonna Inn, rated 9.2, is known for its unique and beautiful rooms, often praised by guests. It features a spa with couples' treatment rooms and offers amenities like a hot tub and mountain views, adding to its romantic appeal.

Another lovely option is the Petit Soleil, which boasts a superb rating of 9.8. Guests consistently highlight the delicious and amazing breakfast, friendly staff, and the great location. Some rooms even include a furnished balcony, ideal for a quiet moment.

Question 9

What are the best hotels in San Luis Obispo near Downtown SLO Farmers' Market?

Accepted Answer

For hotels in San Luis Obispo near Downtown SLO Farmers' Market, consider the Hotel San Luis Obispo, Petit Soleil, or Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo.

The Hotel San Luis Obispo, with an excellent 9.4 rating, is very conveniently located just 0.2 km from Mission Plaza and 0.4 km from the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum. This hotel offers a pool, premium bedding, and bathrobes, and guests frequently compliment the friendly and helpful staff and comfortable rooms.

Petit Soleil, a hotel with an outstanding 9.8 rating, is another excellent option. It is located 1.1 km from Mission Plaza and 1.3 km from the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum. Guests consistently praise the delicious and amazing breakfast, comfortable and clean rooms, and the superb location. Free full breakfast, free self-parking, and free WiFi are also provided.

The Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo, rated 9.4, is also a good choice. It is 1.3 km from Mission Plaza and 1.5 km from the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum. The hotel offers a free buffet breakfast, free self-parking, and free WiFi. Guests often highlight the spacious and clean rooms and the friendly staff.

Question 10

When is the best time to go to San Luis Obispo?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit San Luis Obispo is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months.

During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures for exploring the area's attractions. You'll find fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months, especially at popular spots like Bubblegum Alley and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. This also means you can often find better value on accommodation and experiences.

Spring brings blooming wildflowers to the surrounding hills and vineyards, making it a particularly scenic time for couples interested in wine tasting in Edna Valley or cycling the Bob Jones Trail. The evenings are cool and ideal for enjoying outdoor dining on Higuera Street.

Autumn offers a similar climate, with warm days and cool nights, superb for those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking Bishop Peak or exploring the coastline at nearby Avila Beach.

Question 11

Where can I find the best nightlife in San Luis Obispo?

Accepted Answer

San Luis Obispo has a few distinct areas for nightlife, offering different experiences.

Downtown San Luis Obispo, particularly along Higuera Street and Monterey Street, is the main area for bars and pubs. You'll find a concentration of establishments here, ranging from lively pubs with outdoor seating to cocktail bars. Many places offer live music on weekends, often featuring local bands. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a bustling evening.

The area around Mill Street and Garden Street, still within downtown, offers a slightly different feel with some smaller, more intimate bars and wine tasting rooms. These establishments often focus on local wines and craft beverages, providing a more relaxed setting than the main thoroughfares.

For those interested in a quieter evening or a more elevated experience, some of the hotels and resorts outside the immediate downtown area offer sophisticated lounges and bars.

Question 12

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in San Luis Obispo.

Question 13

How can I save on a hotel booking in San Luis Obispo with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on San Luis Obispo hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Question 14

How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in San Luis Obispo?

Accepted Answer

Prices for hotels in San Luis Obispo often vary, but you can find a great deal from AU$98 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown 3.0 star property San Luis Obispo View	Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo 3.0 star property San Luis Obispo View	Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo 3.5 star property San Luis Obispo View	Madonna Inn 3.5 star property San Luis Obispo View	Apple Farm 3.5 star property San Luis Obispo View
9.0 Wonderful 2,193 reviews	9.4 Exceptional 1,664 reviews	8.8 Excellent 1,425 reviews	9.2 Wonderful 1,635 reviews	9.0 Wonderful 1,676 reviews
The price is AU$201 includes taxes & fees 10 Nov - 11 Nov	The price is AU$210 includes taxes & fees 16 Nov - 17 Nov	The price is AU$189 includes taxes & fees 19 Nov - 20 Nov	The price is AU$281 includes taxes & fees 11 Nov - 12 Nov	The price is AU$179 includes taxes & fees 10 Nov - 11 Nov
Yes, Breakfast included Yes, Pool No Spa Yes, Pet-friendly Yes, WiFi included Yes, Parking	Yes, Breakfast included Yes, Pool No Spa Yes, Pet-friendly Yes, WiFi included Yes, Parking	Yes, Breakfast included Yes, Pool No Spa Yes, Pet-friendly Yes, WiFi included Yes, Parking	No Breakfast included Yes, Pool Yes, Spa No Pet-friendly Yes, WiFi included Yes, Parking	No Breakfast included Yes, Pool No Spa No Pet-friendly Yes, WiFi included Yes, Parking

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	57.7°F (14.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
May	60.8°F (16.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	68.7°F (20.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	64.6°F (18.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
December	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

Search San Luis Obispo hotels

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Go beyond your typical stay in San Luis Obispo

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Property class

Guest rating

Our top choices for San Luis Obispo hotels

1. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown

2. Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo

3. Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo

4. Madonna Inn

5. Apple Farm

6. The Wayfarer San Luis Obispo, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

7. Hampton Inn & Suites San Luis Obispo

8. Courtyard by Marriott San Luis Obispo

9. La Cuesta Inn, BW Signature Collection

10. Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo

11. Best Western Plus Royal Oak Hotel

12. Cottage Inn By The Sea

13. Vagabond Inn San Luis Obispo

14. Inn at the Cove

15. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Atascadero by IHG

16. Springhill Suites by Marriott Paso Robles Atascadero

17. Motel 6 San Luis Obispo, CA - South

18. SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

19. Mission Inn San Luis Obispo

20. Hotel Buena Vista

Compare top hotels in San Luis Obispo

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown

Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo

Madonna Inn

Apple Farm

Holiday Rentals in San Luis Obispo

Avila Pismo RV Resort and Campground

Our guide on where to stay in San Luis Obispo

Downtown San Luis Obispo

Railroad District

Foothill

Old Town Historic District

Lower Higuera

Stay near popular San Luis Obispo attractions

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo and related destinations

Top San Luis Obispo Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in San Luis Obispo

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo

Motel 6 San Luis Obispo, CA - South

More cheap accommodation in San Luis Obispo

Lamplighter Inn & Suites

Find out more about San Luis Obispo

Top reasons to visit San Luis Obispo

Find great hotels in and around San Luis Obispo

Where to stay in and around San Luis Obispo

Things to do near San Luis Obispo

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Luis Obispo

Find the best attractions in and around San Luis Obispo

Best time to go to San Luis Obispo

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Luis Obispo

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Go further with the Expedia app