Coastal motor-lodge hideaway
Courtyards planted with native succulents and glowing gas fire pits bring a relaxed surf culture to this roadside motor lodge.
“All of the accommodations have been thoughtfully redesigned to embody a light and airy, coastal California–inspired ambience.”
What it’s good at
Notable
Converted 1920s military barracks feature crisp whitewashed shiplap, vaulted ceilings, and freestanding Jøtul gas fireplaces.
Listed
Evenings center around communal courtyard fire pits, outdoor ping-pong, and craft pours at The Salty Tiger.
Listed
Steps from Cayucos State Beach, stocked with Central Coast wines, regional artworks, and local botanical soaps.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and AFAR.
Just a few blocks from the beach, the new Pacific Motel in Cayucos is simple, stylish, and loaded with all the right stuff…
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Cayucos State Beach and the oceanfront pier are a three-minute stroll away, surrounded by independent surf shops and coastal bakeries.
The rooms
Whitewashed shiplap and Parachute linens line every room, while standalone bungalows add private patios and freestanding gas fireplaces.
At the table
The Salty Tiger pours Central Coast wines and craft drafts beside a tiled fireplace and woven pendant lights.
How it began

Several bungalows began life in the 1920s as military barracks at Camp San Luis Obispo before moving seaside in the 1950s.
Good to know
Stay here
The Pacific Motel
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.