Photo, Fran Miller
Pismo Beach, Central California’s quintessential beach town, offers a new reason to plan a visit to this quaint land of sand, surf, and sun. Vespera on Ocean, the newly opened Autograph Collection hotel by Marriott International, provides a stylish and upscale lodging option within the small, laid-back community.
Vespera is Pismo Beach’s first branded property, and the hotel delivers Marriott’s high service standards while celebrating the seaside lifestyle and throwback culture of its host town. This representation of the inherent crafts and distinctive perspectives of a region is a signature of the Autograph Collection of indie hotels; the product of passion and personal realization of each individual founder’s vision makes each hotel within this brand singular and special. The Autograph Collection motto is Exactly Like Nothing Else, and Vespera on Ocean is a whimsical representation of the adage.
Vespera lobby. Photo courtesy of Vespera on Ocean
An upscale, open, beach house-inspired design offers ocean views from nearly every vantage point. 124 guestrooms feature elegant interiors with relaxing coastal elements and oversized bathrooms with floor-to-ceiling showers, and premium bath products. Most rooms have private balconies overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and all are equipped with a mini-fridge and a Lavazza espresso machine. Full kitchens are available in select suites. The hotel is also pet-friendly for those looking to travel with their furry friends.
Vespera balcony. Photo courtesy of Vespera on Ocean
Vespera suite. Photo courtesy of Vespera on Ocean
An expansive pool deck overlooks the Pacific Ocean; a heated outdoor pool and outdoor event lawn with fire pits provide gathering spots at which to socialize and unwind. A living room-style lobby with a cozy fireplace welcomes guests, and a state-of-the-art fitness facility and high-tech business center offer convenience.
Vespera’s beachfront location offers direct access to Pismo Beach’s iconic boardwalk and pier, is within walking distance to downtown Pismo Beach, and is located just five minutes from Pismo Preserve’s hiking and biking trails. Rent a beach cruiser from the hotel-adjacent Pismo Beach Surf Shop (the oldest surf shop along the central coast, since 1962)and mosey in seaside style along the streets, trails, and beach just as the locals do. With San Luis Obispo wine country, Ocean Dunes, and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo all within 10-20 minutes of the property, Vespera is the ideal home base for active travelers, wine lovers, and those seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation along California’s Central Coast.
Photo, Dan Miller
Photo, Fran Miller
The hotel’s signature restaurant, Somerset Grill, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and features panoramic ocean views, breezy patio seating, and elevated coastal cuisine. Market-fresh, regionally-inspired, classic seaside dishes are served all day from the showcase open kitchen, centered with a wood-fired grill. The menu highlights ‘Oceanside Americana’ cuisine featuring the best produce and ingredients from local purveyors along California’s Central Coast, including unique hand-crafted cocktails and an extensive list of local beer and wines from Edna Valley and San Luis Obispo County.
Photo courtesy of Vespera on Ocean and Somerset Grill
Photo courtesy of Vespera on Ocean and Somerset Grill
“We are thrilled to join the Pismo Beach community and have the opportunity to offer guests a quintessential experience along the Central California Coast with the approachable luxury and service they can expect from the Marriott Autograph Collection,” said Sandy Wirick, Vespera’s director of sales & marketing.
