I do recommend BUT... TO THE OWNERS. 1960'S carpet might have been a good idea at the time, however, dog friendly NOT so much. This visit, our room smelled faintly of urine from day one. I'm on my 2nd can of Fabreeze. Not to mention the carpet is really ugly. LAMINATED floor would be a great upgrade and improve the whole experience. The staff here is great. Mark in maintenance is amazing. Step into 2026 and spend the money we are paying to stay. The chairs have to be 1960'S as well. You put covers on them. ??? You must know that most of your clients are over 50. Walk in showers would be a huge improvement and so much safer. I see on YELP that I'm not alone with these thoughts. Maybe read some of them. read more

Very disappointing experience, especially considering the price and how this resort is presented online. We booked a King Deluxe Ocean View room hoping for a relaxing getaway. Our room was directly above the pool and spa, and the noise from screaming children and adults made it difficult to even hear the ocean. Even worse, people were swimming and being extremely loud at 1:40 AM despite the posted 10 PM pool closing time. The hotel clearly was not enforcing its own rules. The biggest issue was discovering what appeared to be a BLOOD STAIN on our bedding at bedtime. We were so uncomfortable that we slept on top of the bedding. We reported it the next morning and specifically requested fresh bedding. When we returned after spending the day in Cambria, the bedding had NOT been changed--they had simply left fresh towels. We complained again and were asked to leave for about an hour so they could take care of the room. When we returned, the room still hadn't actually been cleaned. The garbage wasn't emptied and our breakfast dishes and tray were still sitting there. The room itself was also much more outdated and worn than the online photos suggested, with missing paint, stains on the ceiling and no bathroom exhaust fan. Staff had apologized and told us to mention everything again at checkout because our bill would be adjusted. At checkout, we explained what had happened, and the employee simply printed our bill and handed it to us. No adjustment and no meaningful attempt to make things right. A couple waiting behind us overheard our conversation and said they had experienced similar problems. For what we paid, this was absolutely not the experience we expected from the Cavalier. Unfortunately, we would not stay here again. read more

I have stayed at the Cavalier Hotel several times over the years, but I think I am going to look at other options the next time I come to this area. On the positive side, the staff is friendly, personable, and helpful. The ocean-view rooms have great views of the water, and they also have fireplaces. The hotel offers room service, and there is a restaurant on-site. Although it is not the best restaurant, it is nice to have it as an option. The grounds are beautiful and expansive. There are fire pits, multiple benches along the bluff where you can sit and enjoy the view, two pools, a volleyball court, giant chess, and a giant checkerboard. On the not-so-positive side, the hotel could use some serious attention. It felt dated and worn. I also found the pictures to be a bit misleading. The photo of the room I booked showed a seating area with a table, but that was not present in my room. Noise was also an issue. I was on the ground floor, and every time someone in the room above me got up, I could hear every step they took. The bathroom fan in our room sounded like a jet engine. On previous trips, the hotel was fairly empty, so I didn't notice the noise as much. On this trip, however, the hotel was almost full, and I was awakened repeatedly. Overall, there are definitely things I like about the Cavalier, especially the location, views, grounds, and staff. But given the condition of the rooms and the noise issues, I will probably look at other options next time. read more

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Beautiful Hotel! Glad we stayed here. From the moment we walked in the staff was really friendly, showed us a map and gave us all details of the amenities there. The room was cozy, and we will definitely stay here again! No doubt! I recommend the upgraded room with the ocean view. Also they have a restaurant on site. Food was really good there as well. read more

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Great location on the oceanfront, but in this area, all the motels can boast the same trait! Room was dirty, curtains filthy, dust abounds on base boards and light fixture over the bathroom sink. Carpet felt dirty. Bed poorly made and rough sheets. Pictures on their website are deceiving, room was spartan and not comfortable. I wanted to leave the room as much and as soon as possible. Older Woman on the front desk needs a lesson or two in customer service. Too many important details buried in a lengthy letter, but not mentioned at check in, (like no daily cleaning service unless requested by 9 pm , we checked in at 7:30. Bathtub drain was clogged, Look elsewhere, there are lots of other options. read more

Roxy at the front desk was very friendly, welcoming, & professional- loved her kind spirit and reassuring us how we are in a safe area. Yummy homemade chocolate chip cookies given at ck-in. The room she got us was perfect as I am handicap with walking disability. Clear ocean view, parked next to room on 1st floor. Roxy was right the cold wind died out by close to sunset which was perfect for the fire pits to roast marshmallows. And Perfect on beach location, with many activities. Our room was clean and spacious. Price was very reasonable for location. We are definitely returning. Loved listening to the ocean waves all night long. read more

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Maybe a bit pricey but the view is unbeatable! The room was comfortable and the staff at the front desk is very sweet and helpful, marking everything on a physical map and answering all our questions. The attached breach area is really cool, it's huge, and many different things to enjoy : a cabin, beach, grass, rocks, bonfires, stars. It was fun just waking around and exploring. However the bonfires were very crowded at night. Free coffee is nice though no free breakfast. We went to the attached restaurant for breakfast and it was amazing but also so much food we slipped lunch. I tried to go to the gym in the morning but it only opens at 9... So I watched the beautiful sunrise instead. read more

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The carpets were dirty and the windows were dusty. Very disappointed it did not look like in the pictures when we did our reservation. read more

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MISLEADING ONLINE PICTURES! Online pics are 10+ years. These rooms have been severely neglected. The carpets are old/discolored, popcorn ceiling ceilings, chipped paint on inside/outside of door, broken curtains that were dangling. This hotel has so much potential but has been neglected with even simple upkeep. I'm guessing that the owner does not know, doesn't care or he is too tired to upkerp this property? This hotel is dog friendly, but they have very old carpeting? Why not install laminate? Our stay was over $750 for two nights and we felt like we were in an almost abandoned hotel. Pros: LOCATION! Outdated hotel is located across from the water. You can hear the waves at night and walk down to the beach. The outdoor fire pits are fun but crowded. Great location, newer beds, nice pillows, new towels. Fireplace in room is cool. The rooms do not smell bad. read more

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This place is a real gem and a must stay if you're going to Hearst Castle. The resort consists of two properties and has two swimming pools, a jacuzzi and beach access. There's also a walking path with signs explaining the marine animals that can be seen from various vantage points. There's coffee, refrigerator and a microwave in the room and fresh brewed coffee at the checkin desk. If you're staying at the Sands by the Sea property checkin at the Cavalier desk. The location is minutes from the Elephant Seal sanctuary, downtown Cambria, and Hearst Castle. read more

Cavalier Oceanfront Resort - Signage on the walkway - Resorts Near Me - San Simeon, California

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If you are looking for something for dinner this is the spot for a takeout! We always get there ribeye 16 oz with finger potatoes and asparagus for $48.99 to go and get it rare so we can finish at medium rare back in our room that has a kitchen in it if you come across a hotel that gives you one ! You can feed two people on this meal read more

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I was debating whether to stay here or in Cambria for our 1 year anniversary. The $600 price difference swayed me to come here instead. The pictures are somewhat misleading. In that the ocean view rooms were old and worn. Dirty curtains. Popcorn ceilings. Lots of things patched together. Small rooms and really dark. I was initially disappointed when we got into our first room. It was not at all what the pictures showed. Being initially on the downstairs unit people would walk by our patio while we're sitting there. Basically looking at us and disturbing our peace. Our 2nd unit was upstairs. Which was a lot better. As we had more privacy and a better view of the ocean. But basically the same layout as downstairs. There were alot of things I enjoyed about this resort, which ultimately left me satisfied with my stay here. For example: 1. The grounds was beautiful and expansive. Lots of greenery. They had a sand volleyball court. Multiple fire pits. A giant chess and checkers board. Multiple areas to sit along the cliff. 2. View from the balcony was unmatched. You have a very expansive and view of the ocean. We werent beach front. We were the ocean view balcony rooms. But it was nice too because you were able to see the grounds of the resort leading into the ocean. Rocking chairs and table too were a nice touch on the balcony. 3. Nice beach access and super close too. No street crossing or dodging cars. 4. Front desk. They moved our rooms (to an upstairs room) with no issues. They also have complimentary toiletries at the front desk. 5. Fire place. Our rooms had fire places. With a lot of compressed wood chip bricks. It definitely warmed up the room and made it so much more romantic. 6. Parking. They have parking right infront of your room. So there isnt that much walking from your vehicle to the room. 7. During the weekdays there was no one here!! You literally had the entire resort to yourself which was amazing!! 8. Close proximity to Cambria as well as the elephant seal viewpoint, as well as many other points of interest. Things that could use some improvement: 1. Rooms. They need an update. Their were stains on certain towels, which is disgusting. 2. Room service. We had our room cleaned one day. They didnt throw any of the trash away on the table. They didnt get rid of the used cups. Nor did they empty the trashcans..... 3. Pillows- the pillows tucked! Beds were super comfy. But im sore and my neck and back is tight.... 4. Gym. Again based on the pictures it was this huge thing. But it was extremely small. Served its purpose. But it looked like an after thought. They were also missing handles on their machines. Overall it was a wonderful 5 night stay. The views are unparalleled. I love how much green space is here. After the weekend there was basically no one here. So it was a very relaxing and enjoyable stay. read more

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When you pay and ask for a full ocean view you should get it. Don't come here they don't care about you. We won't be coming back here. Oh and if you have perks because of your credit card you better tell them they won't offer it. read more

Cavalier Oceanfront Resort - This is NOT an "unobstructed view"! - Resorts Near Me - San Simeon, California

Updated review- may 2025 My husband and I have been coming here with our pets for over 15 years. We love it. It's very relaxing. The rooms are so awesome with fireplaces inside with a view of the ocean. Our dogs love the grass and plenty of room to run around. We love the fire pits and the games outside . This is a wonderful vacation spot. read more

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The view is 5 stars.. the (resort) is 2 stars Needs updating and cleaning. The rooms were like a old motel 6. Old furniture and dirty walls and drapes. A small table but had no chairs to sit around it. Cable tv was from 1980 fuzzy picture and very limited channels. It's up to you now if you want to stay there but you have been warned. read more

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This hotel is beautiful. The ocean view from almost every room is breathtaking taking. The hotel is old and could use a cute upgrade. However, the beds are comfortable, the bathroom is really nice, and the outside activities are amazing. You can spend time walking the beach, hanging out by the fire pits, or in the hot tub. There is always something to do. The staff is really nice and they offer in room service from their restaurant. read more

We always enjoy our stay here. Professional, attentive, & friendly service from all employees. Convenient location, clean, & comfortable. Maria Vargas, Marisela & Gretchen at the restaurant are such a treat. Always friendly, pleasant & attentive. The food at the restaurant is fresh, savory & offers a great selection of yumminess. The cooks do an awesome job!! Anthony at the front desk is a joy! He's very professional, always providing great service on our stays here. He's an exceptional example of hospitality. We've been here numerous times & always look forward to our next stay. Thank you Cavalier Resort for another relaxing trip away! read more

I arrived in the evening after traveling all day, and I was exhausted. The clerk immediately gave me the layout of the resort with a map and provided me with a key card and keys to my mini refrigerator with snacks and drinks. Upon entering the room, I did my standard black light to search for critters and stains on the furniture. I found no major issues. Although, I did find several of the windows weren't locked; so please don't overlook the windows. Next, the shower had a heat lamp, which was an added plus when exiting the shower. Many hotels used to have them; however, they're not as frequent anymore. After checking into my room, I noticed a tour bus pulling in. Apparently, they had been sightseeing all day and were back for the evening. The next morning, as I was leaving for work, I noticed a lot of guests had dogs. I'd guess two out of five guests had them. Although I suffer from dog dander allergies, I had no issues, and my room didn't have a pet odor. I've been to hotels with funky dog odors. Next, someone's review mentioned dirty carpets. I had zero issues, but the grounds are heavily traveled, thus the thin grassy area, which is likely a fall/winter issue. Nevertheless, it is the guests' responsibility to wipe their shoes off before walking into the rooms. Seriously, what do you do at your home? They also have a pool, walking paths, massive checkers and chess board games, and three outside firepits surrounded by chairs. I noticed a lot of holes in the ground made by ground squirrels. Although I'm not familiar with the type of squirrel, I couldn't help but notice the abundance of holes--I mean, there were more than the dimples on a golf ball. Two takeaways: stay on the paths, and don't feed them, or they'll multiply like gremlins! Finally, as others have mentioned, the views are gorgeous. If you propel down to the beach area, you must see the sunsets. read more

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There are some amazing positives about this in. Location Location Location. Sitting up fron the beach you can sit on the cliff or walk down the relatively easy trail down to the beach just be careful. Up top you can play chess and checkers. There are 2 fireplaces they light at dusk bring your own marshmallows. Free Parking which is nice considering the room rate. Mini bar in the room with high but not outrageous prices ($6 for a small bottle of wine). Ice by the pool. There are 2 heated pools and one hot tub. There is a decent restaurant on the property. The cons we couldn't get the thermostat to kick on. For the price I paid I had a sliver of ocean view. This place gets packed with families and dogs. Overall a good experience. Everything super clean. read more

Cavalier Oceanfront Resort - Resorts Near Me - San Simeon, California

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They are kind and receptive. They all want improvement. Hopefully the ones with the money will come through! Except for rain, our entire visit was lovely. read more

Cavalier Oceanfront Resort - Drapes falling down. No screens on the slider. - Resorts Near Me - San Simeon, California

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Cavalier Oceanfront Resort has a great view of the sunset. All rooms provide binoculars to see the beautiful view. This hotel has a swimming pool and a jacuzzi. There is also a real wood fire that is lit every night near the beach, just outside the hotel. So you can sit around the fire and relax. Although the weather forecast was not good, we were fortunate enough that during our stay that we were able to see a spectacular sunset. I would recommend it when traveling through San Simeon or Cambria. Because the location is good for hiking and seal or sea lion watching. Moreover, a general store and some restaurants are nearby. And a gift shop and a post office are only one minute away from the rooms. Don't miss out on the restaurant next door as it has the most delicious French toast for breakfast. read more

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I have stayed there years although it is much more expensive hotel than any other nearby hotels and willing to pay premium price for nice view, fireplace both indoor and outdoor. As long as there is a transparency. But recent booking I found hidden fee that raises quoted nightly rate by as much as close to 50% which led me to lower from 4-5 rating initial I planned to only 2 stars. I would have rated 1tar if not for San Simeon suffered several years of highway 1 closure. There has been one time, fire alarm triggered during night during which I was lighting the fireplace indoor and it sounded off for years waking nearby hotel guests and caused a commotion as CO alarm would not turn of at all for hours. I could not to really light up the fireplace considering how difficult to disable CO alarm back. read more

One of the Best Trips We've Had! Our stay was truly wonderful from start to finish. The receptionist was incredibly friendly and kind, and all the hotel staff were both professional and welcoming. We didn't encounter a single issue during our stay. The room was spotless, quiet, and cozy, with a stunning sea view that made the experience even more special. The food at the hotel was absolutely delicious and fresh, and the menu prices were very reasonable. Highly recommended - we'd definitely come back again! read more

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Pros: Ocean Views Cons: Rooms are very dated and dirty. There were so many flies. The windows and the curtains are dirty. We didn't want to touch anything. Not sure why they are considered a resort. read more

I have been staying here for 12 years, but i have to say this time it had a lot to be desired. Dirty curtains, no microwaves, absolutely no up keep at all. This place is put together with peanut butter and spit. i do love the outside patio and balconies which is the only reason i come in. I bring a microwave to reheat our coffee. There is NO TV reception or cell service. You need to stand on one leg with a wire hanger like its 1960! This is 2026, Cavalier. You need to do better!! UGH. read more

Beautiful location with amazing sunsets. We really enjoyed the grounds overall. There are a lot of amenities, although the rooms were a bit outdated. We had an ocean front view with a large balcony. I missed the binoculars, but that was a nice touch. We ordered room service twice which was easy and convenient. Also, enjoyed the restaurant on site. Lots of food options on the menu and we loved the bacon for breakfast. Also, dog friendly and close to the elephant seals. I would recommend newer furnishings, but overall a nice and comfortable stay. Thank you for accommodating us during a difficult time. read more

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This is a run down hotel. COBWEBS EVERYWHERE, run down, damaged flooring, stained tile and carpet, smells musty and like smoke inside the room, the bathroom is gross. Nothing like the photos online. I regret booking it and they will not refund me or move my room. Would not stay here if I knew this before booking. read more

Cavalier Oceanfront Resort - Bathroom is not like ad - Resorts Near Me - San Simeon, California

Attention if you have dietary restrictions: My family relies on microwaves being available inside hotels since my son and myself have to prepare a lot of our meals due to food allergies. The description of these rooms are very misleading. No microwaves or other cooking devices are in the "kitchenette" the fridge isn't large enough to store most food, coffee creamer etc. finding a hotel that has 2 beds in a room seems almost impossible in this city. Our room came with a run down couch bed pull out that was disgusting and falling apart. If it wasn't for the view no one would be staying here. I've stayed at motel 6's that were nicer than this place. Damp, musty, and rundown. read more

We loved our room perched on a bluff over the ocean. Worn room but okay. There is a decent restaurant on site which was great Very dark at night. Very enjoyable. Very dog friendly read more

Cavalier Oceanfront Resort - My hubby - Resorts Near Me - San Simeon, California

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Where to start?! My loyal sidekick (golden ) and I escaped here to mourn and attempt to heal .... The entire Cavalier team/property provided that and so much more! We are very grateful. Met the most awesome "welcome wagon" in Roxy; who efficiently checked us in and was a wealth of information! My pup appreciated the milk-bone too. We felt welcome and safe. Even a professionally captured photo could not truly express the grandeur of their real estate. 24/7 gorgeous ocean view, exceptionally maintained property, 1,000% dog friendly, immaculate rooms with soaking tub/fireplace, sincere and friendly staff, two beach access points, multiple fire pits lit at sunset, awesome mega/oversized chess/checkers/tic tac toe, pool/hot tub, multiple restaurants and minimart within walking distance ...; a stay here is medicine for your soul. Additionally, this hotel's location is near the quaint, tourist friendly Cambria, Hearst Castle, the epic Elephant seal rook, the legendary Sebastian's, Hearst wine tasting, Piedras Blancas Light Station; the opportunities are delightfully endless! Well maintained yet saw review complaints on dirty/rundown. Expect entrances to collect debris. Windows and facades are constantly battened by sea salt and wind 24/7. And if you actually look at the carpet - the dark splotches are in the pattern. Agree not the best color choice of carpet but Not dirty. Considering they've got limited times of the year to address cosmetic maintenance - I was impressed with the amount of carpenters and painters on property. Be realistic; if you want fancy/fresh/new find some boutique hotel in Santa Barbara. This place is special in the best way possible! We thank this business for a much needed escape and look forward to returning! It Is Worth It! (Room details apply to a Premium King Oceanfront room.) read more

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So we tried another attempt after the last debacle. Everything is so green after record rainfall and of course the view is stunning. The compost wood from the fireplace is unbearable. The room was covered with gnats and there is no screen door. To make matters worse my wife and I woke up with ants on us and all over the bed! They sprayed which was horrible smelling and changed the linens and didn't vacuum . An hour later the ants were back! They did the same thing again!! I pointed out they were coming from behind the headboard. We saw them spraying other rooms. The staff was nice but said the bug problem was normal in these parts!!?? This was there best oceanfront$$$ room and it was a nightmare. They need to call in the PROS! We won't be back! read more

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Depends on what you expect! By the pictures you'd think it was a "Resort" yes when you arrive it's like a typical place! The only thing that was great about this place was the ocean access! The room was ok. The restaurant is typical restaurant, no bar area just a cubby to make drinks. Just had higher expectations. Food pricey. Their support staff was pleasant and nice. I was disappointed.. it is a place on the beach. read more

Cavalier Oceanfront Resort - View from the pool - Resorts Near Me - San Simeon, California

The view was awesome, however, we paid a pretty penny for a better room that we could have gotten somewhere else for much much cheaper. The patios allow for the sound of the ocean and what we'd expect, the smell of the ocean. But no. Even though the patios are no smoking, stoners in the room next to us were blazing it up and all we could smell was weed. Nothing against the stuff, but, we don't want to smell like a misdemeanor. The front desk said it's allowed and we couldn't do anything about it. Each time we've come the place has declined. Needless to say, this will be our last visit. read more

Cavalier Oceanfront Resort - The rules for common courtesy. - Resorts Near Me - San Simeon, California

Several years ago, we vacationed in San Simeon/Cambria. During that time, we visited the Cavalier Resort grounds and restaurant. We vowed that if we returned, we would stay there. As expected, we remained enchanted by the hotel, grounds, and restaurant. We were greeted by Patrice - who is wonderfully kind and helpful - when checking in. Similarly, our server at the restaurant, Danny, was welcoming, kind, and attentive during our dinner, as were his colleagues. (The meal was great!) After our meal, we wandered around the grounds: children playing checkers on a supersized checker board; some young folks made use of the hot tub, and we joined a handful of fellow guests (and their dogs) at a fire pit surrounded by comfortable chairs. We plan to revisit the Cavalier whenever opportunities permit. read more

Super cute here! BUT nothing but a bunch of OLD farts complaining about very low music. Other than that? I loved it here. Food was really good too read more

Cavalier Oceanfront Resort - Resorts Near Me - San Simeon, California

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We have been coming here for a few years. We love the quiet spot & ocean view rooms with patio & rocking chairs. Awesome listening to ocean all night. Be sure & get an ocean view room! Staff are always friendly. The grounds near the beach aren't green but we're in a drought. Grass up near the property is green. Room for improvement: Get rid of the keyed mini bar & provide a little fridge & microwave. Need screens on the sliding glass doors. Interior paint needed. Place hardwood/ laminate floors in pet friendly rooms! Easier to clean & prevents allergy issues. Chuck the chess pieces, add some more gathering spots, maybe with shade. We love Cavalier, do a little renovation please. read more

Cavalier Oceanfront Resort - View from room - Resorts Near Me - San Simeon, California

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we had a wonderful stay! the bed was very comfortabl. loved the rocking chairs on the balcony, sat and had coffee in our robes in the morning and wine in the evening listening to the waves. the fireplace was perfect as it got chillly. had multiple meals in the restaurant and loved everyt we got. we will for sure stay here again! read more

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My wife and I have been staying at the Cavalier for 21 years. Most of those years were for 5-6 days and all but 2 were in the same room on the cliff. Over the years we have seen the hotel at its best and worst. While making our last reservation I was quoted a price of $359 per night. Since our stay was during mid week I assumed this price included the ridcules taxes they charge. The last 4-5 stays our room experienced many issues. Last year our bath sink pipes leaked and our bar sink took 30 minutes to drain. It seems now you are always standing in 2 inches of water when you shower, that has become a constant over the last few years. This last stay our toilet would barely flush a single sheet of toilet paper. The toilet would flush, water would go down it, but nothing disappeared. It would take you flushing the toilet 19 times before you saw nothing. I think the worst was the constantly fogged up sliding door window blocking the ocean view. During our stay we're required no maid service or extra towels. Most of the rooms in this section the people generally stay a night or 2, so there's always maid activity during the day. So if you want peace and quiet during the day you'll be hearing vacuuming and doors opening and closing fir a few hours. We weren't able to occupy our room until just before 6pm, unexceptable for the money they charge. Here's the kicker. With taxes our room turned into a $400 per weekday rate. These rooms haven't changed down to the carpeting in 21 years. The rooms are tired and the hotel needs maintenance done desperately. I dont mind paying the money. But I do expect a functioning room. Sadly 21 years of memories are at a end. We're considering staying up the way at Ragged Point. The rooms are the same price but they are much better as is the grounds. We might have just put up with all the inconveniences at the Cavalier, but nor at those prices. read more

We had a wonderful stay at Cavalier Resort! We were greeted with friendly faces upon arrival and given all the information we needed. All of the available amenities are a great bonus. The view is amazing! We enjoyed making s'mores at the fire pits & walking along the bluffs. We will definitely return. The resort could definitely use some updates and our AC didn't work so it was very warm at night! read more

Cavalier Oceanfront Resort - View from the top of the bluff area - Resorts Near Me - San Simeon, California

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A fine place to rest our heads for the night. Nothing special. Clean and tidy. Great oceanfront views and just up the street from Hearst Castle and the Sea Lion rookery. Front desk staff very helpful and friendly. If you want to stay somewhere a bit nicer, I'd recommend a hotel or bed and breakfast in Cambria, which isn't too far away. read more