The three-pearl Sea Otter Inn is a small, cozy hotel situated in a prime spot across the street from Moonstone Beach and its boardwalk. It's a peaceful location, and spectacular ocean views and sunsets can be seen from the beautifully landscaped grounds. Major features are limited to free breakfast delivered to guest rooms, a year-round heated pool and whirlpool, electric car charging stations, free Wi-Fi. All of the hotel's 25 guest rooms have traditional decor and gas fireplaces, and they come equipped with mini-fridges, coffeemakers, and microwaves, but they lack AC and many don’t have ocean views. Travelers looking to save a bit might consider the Cambria Pines Lodge. While not on the beach, it features a restaurant, lounge, and day spa.

Cambria Pines Lodge is a quiet, mid-range hotel in quaint Cambria, off scenic Highway 1. It offers 152 homey rooms housed in several cottage-style wooden buildings amid lovely, relaxing grounds and hiking trails. Standard Rooms are a little basic and have outdated technologies such as tube TVs, but upper-level rooms and suites have gas fireplaces, mini-fridges, microwaves, and decks or private patios. The hotel offers a small day spa, complete with an outdoor heated pool and whirlpool; a solid restaurant with outdoor seating, and a lounge with daily live music. Freebies such as Wi-Fi, self-parking and daily breakfast are all perks. Those willing to walk to downtown Cambria should note that there is a long trail with 250-plus steps.