Cavalier Oceanfront Resort
Cavalier Oceanfront Resort
9415 Hearst Drive, San Simeon, CA 93452
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Avg. $234 /night, 1/18 - 1/19
$277
per night
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per night
$125
per night
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About
#3 of 9 hotels in San Simeon
Location
4.8
Rooms
4.3
Value
4.1
Cleanliness
4.4
Service
4.4
Sleep Quality
4.4
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Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic
Green
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish
Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room
Pool
Restaurant
Beach
Children's television networks
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Parking
Wifi
Yoga classes
Hot tub
Pool / beach towels
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Heated pool
Fence around pool
Kids' meals
Vending machine
Business Center with Internet Access
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Sun loungers / beach chairs
24-hour check-in
24-hour front desk
Laundry service
Room features
Desk
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Room service
Minibar
Refrigerator
Flatscreen TV
Hair dryer
Safe
Seating area
Telephone
Iron
Laptop safe
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Room types
Ocean view
Non-smoking rooms
Location
9415 Hearst Drive, San Simeon, CA 93452
Getting there
Car recommended
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travelers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 50 out of 100
50
San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport
38.7 mi•
See all flights
Monterey Peninsula Airport
78 mi•
See all flights
Rental Cars
51 Restaurants
within 5 miles
Reviews
4.5
4,021 reviews
Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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The Cavalier Oceanfront Resort boasts a prime location cherished by guests for its beach proximity and nearby attractions. However, the hotel's atmosphere and rooms are frequently criticized for being outdated, with calls for renovations and concerns over maintenance. While some travelers commend the accommodating staff, others have experienced service inconsistencies.
Despite clean grounds, daily cleaning services sometimes fall short. The array of amenities, including oceanfront rooms and fire pits, is popular, but many guests feel the resort does not offer good value for the price.
Location
Beachfront
Atmosphere
Outdated
Rooms
Dated
Value
Expensive
Cleanliness
Mixed
Service
Inconsistent
Amenities
Satisfactory
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Detailed Reviews
We stayed in one of the oceanfront rooms along the bluff and slept with the window open to hear the surf. Booked this type of room specifically as many of the other rooms do look toward the ocean, but are not at all 'oceanfront'. Stayed for three nights as we visited Hearst Castle, the seal rookery, Cambria and wineries near Paso Robles.
Room was comfortable, as was the bed. Aware that the sitting area furniture is yet to be updated, which will make a positive difference. Never lit the fireplace as had visions of way too much smoke in the rooms. The balcony view of the ocean was appealing and we enjoyed evening wine from there rather than grouping around a communal firepit. The balcony carpet could have been cleaned a bit better as upon arrival we had to request that a previous 'souvenir' from a canine guest be removed. But as this is a casual sort of place that allows dogs, this was not a showstopper. As we had a connecting room, we could hear voices from next door which was one negative aspect. Have learned that some of the upstairs oceanfront rooms are not connecting, so will request that next time.
As we were welcomed with a totally dark sky at the new moon, we had hoped to do more stargazing from the vast yard, but the outdoor lighting limited our views overhead and we had to resort to viewing the sky looking out over the ocean.
The location is close enough to Cambria to sample and enjoy the restaurants there, as there are some good choices offering good menus and good wine.
Our first visit to the Central Coast and we would return and again choose Cavalier.
Room was comfortable, as was the bed. Aware that the sitting area furniture is yet to be updated, which will make a positive difference. Never lit the fireplace as had visions of way too much smoke in the rooms. The balcony view of the ocean was appealing and we enjoyed evening wine from there rather than grouping around a communal firepit. The balcony carpet could have been cleaned a bit better as upon arrival we had to request that a previous 'souvenir' from a canine guest be removed. But as this is a casual sort of place that allows dogs, this was not a showstopper. As we had a connecting room, we could hear voices from next door which was one negative aspect. Have learned that some of the upstairs oceanfront rooms are not connecting, so will request that next time.
As we were welcomed with a totally dark sky at the new moon, we had hoped to do more stargazing from the vast yard, but the outdoor lighting limited our views overhead and we had to resort to viewing the sky looking out over the ocean.
The location is close enough to Cambria to sample and enjoy the restaurants there, as there are some good choices offering good menus and good wine.
Our first visit to the Central Coast and we would return and again choose Cavalier.
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Date of stay: February 2020
Rooms
Location
Service
Room Tip: Choose oceanfront rooms, not just oceanview.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The location is the best thing by far. Easy beach access and great view. The rate that they charge for what this hotel is happens to be overpriced in my opinion. There are a lot of dogs who are loud in the rooms and it seems to now connect with the Sands hotel which puts a strain on the resources of this property. They have 2 outdoor pools, but it would be nice if one was a family pool and the other was adults only - especially with social distancing in effect. Most of the rooms seem to have adjoining doors in case you travel in groups, but not great for the noise level. Ok my first morning there I was awoken by very loud cleaning people who thought their conversation was more important than my desire to sleep in as a guest. The front desk called them, they got a little quieter and then resumed. When I said something they got an attitude and said they were just talking. I’m sorry, but I think your desire to talk should not outweigh my needs as a guest to want to sleep on my room at 9:30am. I also think they should have people cleaning the outside chairs with disinfectant whenever someone gets up...like someone on stand by. The amount of money they were charging should be able to support that. The room service was pretty good and reasonable priced, a little on the salty side, but good overall. It was pretty easy to social distance here on the beach so that was a big plus.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: August 2020
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveler reviews.
Having been locked down since March I decided to venture out with my mom and travel up the coast for a few days. I've stayed at the Cavalier in the past and love their "Kings Row" rooms. I was concerned about the safety of traveling during COVID but the Cavalier put those concerns to rest. Their safety and cleaning practices we on point and my mom and I enjoyed the magnificent view of the coast line, with an in room fireplace and comfy chair or rocking chairs to relax and listen to the crashing surf. I've never ordered room service before, but the food was surprisingly good and delivered with proper care and caution. They are not doing daily cleanings for your safety at this time, but will bring you anything you need. My room even had a pair of binoculars to look at the dolphins playing in the surf in front of the room and all the lovely sea birds. If you are traveling with pets, this is a pet friendly place. This is a go to destination stay for me and I will return.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2020
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The location is the best thing the hotel has going for it. We had an ocean front room so hearing the waves crash and seeing the water from the rocking chairs on the patio was a big plus. The room also had a fireplace, but it was too warm to use it. Since it was dog friendly we were happy that we could bring our dog with us and we could play with him on the beach and lawn.
The door to the room was open when we got there, so we asked if it had been cleaned. We were told it was cleaned, but then there was a used bar of soap in the soap dish and the toiletry bottles were not full....with covid happening, this felt like an issue. I brought disinfecting wipes, so I went ahead and wiped down all the surfaces in the room. Staff were friendly and did wear masks.
There wasn't a microwave in the room, so I figured that I could just ask for one, but they don't offer them. It's unfortunate, because it would have been nice to be able to reheat my coffee or leftovers and to make popcorn at night. They do have a restaurant that provides room service with a limited and relatively inexpensive menu. Delivery was quick and food was decent, but we split entrees because we didn't have a way to reheat any leftovers.
Some updates are needed. There are two large club chairs facing the patio and ocean with a dining table in between. The chairs are old and you sink into the seat so that the table top ends up at chin level. They are super heavy and dont swivel which is too bad because it would have been good to use them to watch the tv.
Front desk was understaffed as they never answered the phone.
The door to the room was open when we got there, so we asked if it had been cleaned. We were told it was cleaned, but then there was a used bar of soap in the soap dish and the toiletry bottles were not full....with covid happening, this felt like an issue. I brought disinfecting wipes, so I went ahead and wiped down all the surfaces in the room. Staff were friendly and did wear masks.
There wasn't a microwave in the room, so I figured that I could just ask for one, but they don't offer them. It's unfortunate, because it would have been nice to be able to reheat my coffee or leftovers and to make popcorn at night. They do have a restaurant that provides room service with a limited and relatively inexpensive menu. Delivery was quick and food was decent, but we split entrees because we didn't have a way to reheat any leftovers.
Some updates are needed. There are two large club chairs facing the patio and ocean with a dining table in between. The chairs are old and you sink into the seat so that the table top ends up at chin level. They are super heavy and dont swivel which is too bad because it would have been good to use them to watch the tv.
Front desk was understaffed as they never answered the phone.
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Date of stay: August 2020
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: Be sure to get an oceanfront room as there are many rooms that dont face the ocean
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We've been coming to this hotel for nearly 30 years and we've always had a nice relaxing and peaceful stay. However, we may not be back again because this latest stay at the Cavalier September 17-20, 2020 was a huge disappointment!
We decided we wanted a relaxing, peaceful weekend to celebrate our anniversary. Unfortunately, that didn't happen. The property was overly crowded and it was obvious that guests from other hotels were coming to the Cavalier and congregating in the firepit area. On Saturday, there was 25-30 people crowding this area and that is unacceptable especially during this time. Therefore, we were not able to enjoy the firepit area or play any games. When we walked to the Mexican restaurant up the street, we saw people walking to the Cavalier from other hotels. This is something that should be addressed by the Cavalier. If hotel guests are paying to stay at this hotel, they should not have to fight a crowd of people to enjoy the hotel amenities!
When booking in the past, I was able to request a specific room. This time they did not accommodate that request and we were not happy with our room. We heard loud music coming from the room next door and someone in the room below was smoking. Hence, our peaceful time interrupted again.
Although the air quality in San Simeon was great, the smoke at the Cavalier was horrible - whether it was from the firepits or the fireplaces in the rooms. Both were intolerable and we had to leave our slider door shut to avoid the smoke. This totally defeated the purpose of staying on the bluffs to hear the ocean waves.
When we booked our stay, we explained that we were celebrating our anniversary. Upon arriving in our room, there was nothing to acknowledge our special day...no champagne, or chocolates or anything. In the past, the hotel was gracious enough to make us feel special and happy we chose the Cavalier to celebrate. However, not this time which was disappointing. In addition, I requested a late checkout which was also not accommodated but had been in the past...another disappointment.
The positive was that the food from the restaurant was outstanding! Although we didn't enjoy the outdoor seating area due to the bees, we loved getting the room service breakfast.
Unfortunately, we will not be coming back any time soon. We would consider another stay if the rooms are restructured to include gas fireplaces or none at all since the smoke from the fireplaces is unacceptable. Also, the Cavalier needs to address the overcrowding problem.
We decided we wanted a relaxing, peaceful weekend to celebrate our anniversary. Unfortunately, that didn't happen. The property was overly crowded and it was obvious that guests from other hotels were coming to the Cavalier and congregating in the firepit area. On Saturday, there was 25-30 people crowding this area and that is unacceptable especially during this time. Therefore, we were not able to enjoy the firepit area or play any games. When we walked to the Mexican restaurant up the street, we saw people walking to the Cavalier from other hotels. This is something that should be addressed by the Cavalier. If hotel guests are paying to stay at this hotel, they should not have to fight a crowd of people to enjoy the hotel amenities!
When booking in the past, I was able to request a specific room. This time they did not accommodate that request and we were not happy with our room. We heard loud music coming from the room next door and someone in the room below was smoking. Hence, our peaceful time interrupted again.
Although the air quality in San Simeon was great, the smoke at the Cavalier was horrible - whether it was from the firepits or the fireplaces in the rooms. Both were intolerable and we had to leave our slider door shut to avoid the smoke. This totally defeated the purpose of staying on the bluffs to hear the ocean waves.
When we booked our stay, we explained that we were celebrating our anniversary. Upon arriving in our room, there was nothing to acknowledge our special day...no champagne, or chocolates or anything. In the past, the hotel was gracious enough to make us feel special and happy we chose the Cavalier to celebrate. However, not this time which was disappointing. In addition, I requested a late checkout which was also not accommodated but had been in the past...another disappointment.
The positive was that the food from the restaurant was outstanding! Although we didn't enjoy the outdoor seating area due to the bees, we loved getting the room service breakfast.
Unfortunately, we will not be coming back any time soon. We would consider another stay if the rooms are restructured to include gas fireplaces or none at all since the smoke from the fireplaces is unacceptable. Also, the Cavalier needs to address the overcrowding problem.
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Date of stay: September 2020
Value
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I would not recommend this hotel at all. Myra, the receptionist, was very rude to myself and the other guests I was with. I booked 4 rooms under my name, 2 premium rooms and 2 standard rooms, for 2 nights. Due to COVID-19, we are unable dine in at restaurants, so we ended up eating our meals in my hotel room, which we did not mind at all. One evening, my friends and I decided to eat in one of the premium rooms. We were having dinner at 8:30 in the evening and at 8:44 pm we got a very rude call from Myra who was speaking very aggressively to me. I was shocked, and I asked her what was happening. She said the next room over had complained about the noise, and they were already sleeping. She told us we had to be quiet because the people next door paid a lot of money for the premium room and wanted to rest. Please be aware we also paid a lot of money for our premium room and wanted to enjoy our vacation. Myra was screaming at me and telling me to listen to her, so I asked her what time the noise curfew was; she said 11:00 pm, to which I told her it was only 8:44 pm in the evening. She insisted that the people next door paid a lot, and they needed their rest. I was so upset, my husband and I went to the lobby to see her and asked her if we were violating any rules and she said that we were not violating any rules, it’s just “the people next door paid a lot of money for premium room and we cannot make any noise because we are disturbing them at 8:40 pm.” If this is the case, maybe the hotel should change the noise curfew policy to an earlier time such as 8:30 pm or transition the hotel into a retreat hotel instead so quiet hours start at 8:30 pm. After I also paid for multiple expensive rooms, I left my vacation feeling incredibly discriminated against. We will not be going back to this hotel again.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: November 2020
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We stayer here to see Hearst Castle and the elephant seals. It was very convenient for these attractions. But the price is high for what you get. A basic room overlooking the parking lot can be upgraded for a fee. But even when the hotel was mostly empty, no upgrade was offered without paying the fee.
Noisy neighbors meant had to change rooms after the family next door could not be encouraged to be quiet. The desk staff said they called the offending room, but never went to knock on the door to ask the family to pipe down.
Rooms were clean, but the "fireplace" is a bit of a waste of space, and the furniture could use a refresh.
Restaurant was OK, and open early. Restaurant staff was very friendly.
Noisy neighbors meant had to change rooms after the family next door could not be encouraged to be quiet. The desk staff said they called the offending room, but never went to knock on the door to ask the family to pipe down.
Rooms were clean, but the "fireplace" is a bit of a waste of space, and the furniture could use a refresh.
Restaurant was OK, and open early. Restaurant staff was very friendly.
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Date of stay: January 2020
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Anything with a view costs, even when they are not full.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We were overlooking the pool on the first floor near the main entrance, our room had 2 large queen size beds, a bathroom and tea/coffee in room.
It is an older style hotel though super comfy and clean. The food at the restaurant is very good, the staff there are so friendly and service is high.
The location is amazing, right on the coast - the outdoor games, open fires and access to the beach are perfect.
There are limited options in the area, this is one of the best choices.
We visited Hearst Castle whilst here and it is a must do!
It is an older style hotel though super comfy and clean. The food at the restaurant is very good, the staff there are so friendly and service is high.
The location is amazing, right on the coast - the outdoor games, open fires and access to the beach are perfect.
There are limited options in the area, this is one of the best choices.
We visited Hearst Castle whilst here and it is a must do!
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Date of stay: March 2020
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: Higher floor would be preferred and ask to be away from main entry.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Great location, was a Best Western, now not. Basically five buildings. The one closest the ocean on a bluff is their most expensive, but caution, the first floor rooms look at the lawn. The second floor probably can see the beach. You can request 2nd floor but not guaranteed. Probably a better option would be 2nd floor in the other building that faces the ocean and save $100 a night. Binoculars provided, rocking chairs on porch, Keurig coffee maker, mini-bar and then a small refrigerator (nice touch) for your goodies, wood burning fireplace, ceiling fan and heat that appears to be radiant from the floor as there are no vents. I saw reviews that said rooms “tired” in need of renovation. I did not feel that way in room 172. Flat screen Direct TV but curiously not high definition. The settings are locked so I could not change input. Not worth watching in low resolution, a couple of HBO channels though. Glass glass for drinks and ceramic real coffee cups. Not for the faint of wallet.
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Date of stay: September 2020
Value
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We needed to get out of the house, but did not want to be near people. The Cavalier location on the bluff in San Simeon provided space for us and the dogs. Moonstone Beach was a little busier. So this location was perfect - on the beach, near elephant seal beach, near open wineries, and seafood on the menu. Our room was solid so barking dogs were minimal. We could choose to have a fire outside or in the room. We could walk the dogs on the lawn or on the sand. The liquor store across the street was very convenient if you ran out of something and room service could not provide. If you like to leave the windows open to listen to the sounds of the waves crashing on the beach, you just might hear a stockbroker and his friends having a singalong in the moonlight.
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Date of stay: October 2020Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I would think so. It is user friendly. There are chairs around the fire pits. And more just set out for viewing the ocean.
We went mid-June. The Cavalier had a picnic table service near its front door and the park area has benches on the bluff over looking the surf. . We chose to drive into Cambria and bring dinner back. There are a lot of shops in Cambria which is only five miles away but virtually none in San Simeon. Our room was clean but we taking along wipes, etc. would be a good idea.
I’m not sure about oceanfront renovation. It is a large property in a stunning location .. however avoid the small motel like rooms facing the parking lot!
The front desk will tell you, probably. We loved it there.
They have a laundry on site .
There are some day spas in Cambria which is about a 10 minute drive south. I believe there is a spa near Hearst Castle which is about 10 minutes north.
"Make sure you head north for about 10 mins to check out the elephant seal vista - absolutely brilliant! "Read full review
"Parking was good. Right next to public beach access. Close to Hearst Castle and Elephant Seal viewing area."Read full review
"i don't know....it is convenient to the Hearst Castle but really, that's pretty much the whole draw. no disrespect to the owners. "Read full review
"I would imagine that this area would be very busy during the high season of late spring and summer."Read full review
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PRICE RANGE
$111 - $213 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
best western plus cavalier oceanfront hotel san simeon, best western san simeon, san simeon best western
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
BEST WESTERN PLUS Cavalier Oceanfront Resort
LOCATION
United StatesCaliforniaSan Luis Obispo CountySan Simeon
NUMBER OF ROOMS
90
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect nightly room rates, including any mandatory fees. Taxes not included. Please see our partners for more details.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Cavalier Oceanfront Resort
Which popular attractions are close to Cavalier Oceanfront Resort?
Nearby attractions include Fiscalini Ranch Preserve (4.7 miles), Moonstone Beach Drive (3.1 miles), and Moonstone Beach (3.2 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Cavalier Oceanfront Resort?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Cavalier Oceanfront Resort?
Top room amenities include a minibar, a flat screen TV, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Cavalier Oceanfront Resort?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant during their stay.
Is parking available at Cavalier Oceanfront Resort?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Cavalier Oceanfront Resort?
Conveniently located restaurants include Madeline's Restaurant & Wine Cellar, Robin's Restaurant, and Indigo Moon.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Cavalier Oceanfront Resort?
Yes, guests have access to a pool, a fitness center, and yoga classes during their stay.
Is Cavalier Oceanfront Resort located near the city center?
Yes, it is 0.05 miles away from the center of San Simeon.
Are pets allowed at Cavalier Oceanfront Resort?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Cavalier Oceanfront Resort?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Spanish.
Are there any historical sites close to Cavalier Oceanfront Resort?
Many travelers enjoy visiting Nitt Witt Ridge (4.2 miles), The Old Santa Rosa Creek Chapel (4.9 miles), and Cambria Jailhouse (4.4 miles).