The Cliffs Resort

An ocean-side resort on California’s Central Coast halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, The Cliffs Resort offers spectacular views of the Pacific. The staff is polite, the facility is immaculate, and the grounds include an outdoor 85-degree pool plus a fire pit, hot tub, sauna, fitness center, and spa. The on-site restaurant, Marisol, is a cut above, masterfully combining California cuisine and Latin flavors – all with sensational water views.

The Cliffs’ 165 non-smoking guest rooms and suites all have balconies or patios to take advantage of the drop-dead views of the ocean or mountains. The all-marble bathrooms are ultra-luxurious. Amenities include soft chenille bathrobes and slippers, coffee makers, hair dryers, irons and ironing boards, and king-size beds piled high with pillows. Suites also have a separate seating area, refrigerator, one or two 27-inch TVs, whirlpool tub, marble shower, and bidet. Complimentary wi-fi is available throughout the property.

Marisol specializes in California cuisine that features local produce prepared with “modern Latin flavors.” Subtly spiced choices include local Dungeness crab cakes with crispy cayenne plantains and flavorful paella with shellfish and chorizo. For dessert, Chocolate Oblivion is a trio of treats including Mexican hot chocolate. Happy hour includes a complimentary taco bar. Sunday brunch features champagne, lobster, and crab. In-room dining is also available.

The Cliffs can accommodate wedding parties of up to 350 guests, and each event is customized. Outdoor ceremonies take place on the lawn overlooking the ocean. Receptions are held in a seaside tent or in the grand ballroom, which accommodates up to 200 for a sit-down dinner. Brunch is another option. The hotel must provide food, linens, and chairs and recommends outside vendors for music, cakes, flowers, music, and photography.

The Cliffs’ Sea of Love Couple's Spa Package includes luxury accommodations, a bottle of Central Coast wine, his-and-her bathrobes, a 60-minute couples spa treatment, and breakfast for two at Marisol. In winter, the hotel offers Dancing in the Moonlight, a similar package that also includes an evening dance lesson by the pool.

The Spa at The Cliffs has an appealingly modern ambience. It comprises five treatment rooms, including one for couples in which simultaneous massages are given; a sauna; lockers; showers, and a relaxation room. The Cliffs' “signature” massage incorporates warm packs and coconut oil. Also available are a thermal sea stone massage; white wine & white algae body mask; sea and salt scrub; and a gentlemen’s facial.

The Cliffs’ 85-degree oceanfront swimming pool is inviting even when ocean breezes blow, and a hot tub (without jets), fire pit, and sauna are nearby. The ocean is a few steps away. The 24-hour fitness center offers both TV and ocean views, and guests can rent BMX bikes, mountain bikes, and beach cruisers. A concierge arranges day trips and wine tastings. Wine and cheese are served in the lobby on Friday and Saturday afternoons.

The Cliffs is located on Shell Beach, one of many beaches along a non-stop strip. Visitors can rent ATVs or dune buggies to ride the sand dunes. Also close by are dozens of wineries, several golf courses, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, and hiking and biking in two state parks. World-famous Hearst Castle is a 40-minute drive, as are the elephant seals that gather near it along the coast. For restaurants and nightlife, the lively college town of San Luis Obispo is 10 miles away.

Any couple who loves being by the ocean will adore The Cliffs’ breathtaking views of the Pacific. With an inviting heated pool, the spa, the first-rate restaurant, and the beach, some couples will find that there’s no reason to leave. For clubbing or late night partying, however, visitors will have to drive into San Luis Obispo.

The Cliffs Resort
2757 Shell Beach Road
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
800-826-7827 or 805-773-5000

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Search for a Flight to San Luis Obispo Airport. It is half an hour away, and the hotel provides complimentary transportation.

Search for a Flight to San Francisco or Los Angeles Airport, both three to four hours away.

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As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with complimentary accommodation and meals for the purpose of reviewing those services. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see our ethics policy.