The Best Beach Hotels to Book in Oceanside, California

In a prime setting overlooking the pier, this Oceanside beach hotel brings understated glamor to this laid-back coastal playground. Pick up sand-and-surf supplies at the beach kiosk or stake out a spot by the cabana-lined rooftop pool; its adjacent lounge is the perfect sunset-watching spot. For sustenance, report to Valle, helmed by an award-winning chef that specializes in soulful Mexican fare. Don’t miss ice cream from Charlie’s, located in a charming 140-year-old beach cottage that was featured in Top Gun.

The sister property of the adjacent Mission Pacific Hotel, this 226-room beach hotel in Oceanside has the same swoon-worthy views but more facilities, including a luxurious spa offering farm- and ocean-inspired treatments. Wave to seabirds and surfers from the balcony of your airy room sheathed in an upbeat sand and sea color palette that nicely captures SoCal’s relaxed sophistication. The same can be said of the signature restaurant, Piper, which sports a made-to-order pasta station and an open kitchen churning out Cali cuisine starring produce from local farms.

Staying at this hotel in the heart of Oceanside, you’re never far from the fun. The lovely beach, lots of restaurants and downtown attractions like the California Surf Museum are just a stroll away. Each amply sized suite sports an extra sofa bed, making it a great choice for families and space cravers. Free waffles, eggs and other breakfast goodies get you started for a day of exploring or tracking the ocean waves while lazing by the rooftop pool.

Less than half a mile (0.8km) from the Camp Pendleton main gate, the Holiday Inn is a convenient base if you’re visiting friends or family serving in the military. However, if you’re vacationing, its location also makes it a handy launchpad for Legoland and other area attractions. After a day of adventure, return to splash around the pool, tone your tummy in the fitness center or give in to sin during Happy Hour. Fuel up on all-American faves at the onsite restaurant and make sure you go for a stroll along the nearby marina.

This modern Oceanside beach hotel checks all the boxes if you’re keen on a seaside getaway without leaving behind the comforts of home. You could whip up an entire turkey dinner in the fully equipped kitchens of the smartly furnished one- and two-bedroom condos. With the beach and pier right out front – plus a pool, hot tub and sauna on the premises – you’ll quickly connect with that California state of mind. Need peace and quiet? Head to the Skyroom Library with its sensational coastline views.

Owners Steve and Brett are a local couple who’ve poured their hearts and dollars into reviving a funky 1950s motel into this bungalow-style boutique hotel 3mi (4.8km) south of the Oceanside pier. Get some shut-eye in comfy rooms that get crisp boho flair from local art, Moroccan rugs and mid-century-modern furniture. Foam surfboards are available if you fancy checking out nearby surf breaks. Afterwards, warm up in the outdoor cedar hot tub or by the firepit, both great spots for swapping tales with fellow travelers.

Steps away from the Oceanside fishing pier, and literally a stone’s throw from getting sand between your toes, this Cali-cool, surf-themed beach hotel in Oceanside comprises a clutch of breezy studios and one- and two-bedroom suites, with panel art closeups of surf breaks reminding you of where you are, in case you’re not too busy people- and wave-watching from your ocean-facing balcony. No onsite restaurant? No problem; you’re only a brief walk from local favorites Sancho’s Tacos (Mexican) and Dija Mara (Asian fusion).