In San Simeon along the Central Coast, Motel 6 sits just across the street from the ocean and about 6 miles south of Hearst Castle. It’s a straightforward, no-frills kind of place—which can actually be a relief when you’re traveling with a dog and just want a clean room without pretension.

The rooms are modern and smoke-free, and some have partial views of the Pacific if you request one. There’s an outdoor pool on the property if you want to take a swim after a day of exploring. Wi-Fi is available but comes with a fee. The motel has on-site dining, so you don’t have to venture far if you’re tired from the road.

What matters most here: Motel 6 welcomes dogs with no fuss. There are no breed or size restrictions, which is refreshing. Your dog can come inside with you, and you won’t feel like you’re imposing. The oceanfront location is the real appeal—you’re close enough to walk over to the beach for a quick stretch with your dog before or after visiting Hearst Castle, which is the main reason most people stop in San Simeon anyway. The town itself is small and fairly quiet, so it’s a decent pit stop on a Pacific Coast Highway drive rather than a destination in itself.

The rooms are basic but functional. You’re not paying for luxury here; you’re paying for convenience and a dog-friendly attitude. Given the limited lodging options in San Simeon, having a pet-accepting motel right on the water with easy Hearst Castle access is genuinely useful. The proximity to the ocean means you could grab your dog’s leash and step outside without much hassle between activities.