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The Madonna Inn, located in San Luis Obispo on the California Central Coast, is an iconic resort celebrated for its whimsical and extravagant decor, as well as its unique charm. Opened in 1958 by Alex and Phyllis Madonna, it serves as a landmark for guests seeking fun-filled vacations. The inn features 110 themed guest rooms, a vibrant pink exterior, and quirky amenities, making it a popular destination for travelers, families, couples, and bachelorette parties. Here is what to expect when you book a room at the Modona Inn.
Themed Guest Rooms
Each of the 110 rooms at the hotel features a unique theme. For instance, the Caveman Room includes rock walls and waterfall showers, while the Romance Room is decorated in pastel blues with gold trim. There’s also a kid-friendly Pony Room that features a carousel horse. Some rooms, like “Yahoo” and “Love Nest,” draw inspiration from nature and various cultures, whereas others, such as “Old Mill” and “Floral Fantasy,” evoke whimsical or fairytale themes. Room rates begin at approximately $150 with an average cost of $269 per night. Weekend rates are higher.
ADA Compliant Rooms: Five accessible rooms (Vintage, Golfer, Mount Vernon, Rose, Desert Sands) are available, with Braille signage and staff trained on ADA requirements. Service animals are welcome, but pets are not allowed.
Hotel Amenities: A heated infinity pool with a 45-foot waterfall, two hot tubs, and a poolside bar with scenic views of San Luis Obispo’s rolling hills. The Spa at Madonna Inn offers massages, body treatments, and facials.
Dining Options: Madonna Inn
Gold Rush Steakhouse: Madonna Inn is worth a trip to visit the restaurants and bars alone. The hotel’s main dining room is Alex’s Gold Rush Steakhouse. But don’t let the name fool you; there are no western cowboys here. Inside, you’ll find a series of circular plush pink booths, ornate gold chandeliers straight out of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast,” and tiny fairy lights that twinkle in indoor trees. And the steak isn’t bad either!
Cooper Café: For more casual fare (though with no less personality!), stop by the Cooper Café for hearty sandwiches and salads at the quaintly painted and carved wooden bar worthy of a Hansel and Gretel fairytale. They also serve excellent baked goods, including the famous Black Forest Cake, and have gluten-free and vegan options for guests with special dietary restrictions.
Silver Bar Cocktail Lounge: Visit the Silver Bar Cocktail Lounge if you’re looking for a little liquid courage. However, “Hot Pink and Fire Engine Red” would be a more fitting name for this vibrant spot. Enjoy a sweet signature cocktail under the beautifully carved wooden vineyard that hangs overhead, and dance to upbeat tunes while capturing some amazing photos. Additionally, if you’re staying at the hotel, don’t miss the poolside terrace bar, where you can choose from a variety of beers, wines, cocktails, snacks, smoothies, and sandwiches.
Hotel gift Shop: The Madonna Inn also has some unique and fun shopping options! Their fabulously curated boutique carries fun and trendy options for any occasion. Pop into the hotel gift shop to purchase unique decor finds to commemorate your trip, like a set of colored wine glasses in every shade of the rainbow or hand soap shaped like a pastry. If you’re hoping to pack a picnic for later, the Gourmet & Wine shop has everything the hungry traveler could want.
Getting To The Madonna Inn
When you’re in San Luis Obispo (SLO), don’t miss the chance to visit the Madonna Inn for a truly unique travel experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime! The address is 100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo, California.
Here are some booking tips:
– To secure specific themed rooms, it’s best to book by phone (805-543-3000).
– Consider visiting mid-week for lower rates and fewer crowds.
– October tends to be a quieter month.
– No elevators are available, and many rooms require stairs.
– If you’re sensitive to smoke, request a room away from smoking areas.
– Reservations: Book online at madonnainn.com. Cribs are limited and first-come, first-served.
Nearby Madonna Inn Attractions
Avila Beach, California: Avila Beach is a charming coastal town just 10 miles from the Madonna Inn. The main beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and paddleboarding due to its sheltered cove and warmer waters—a historic 1,685-foot pier, great for fishing (no license needed) or strolling. Enjoy views of San Luis Bay and spot sea lions or dolphins. Free to walk, open daily.
Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa: A wellness-focused resort just 1 mile from Avila Beach and about 10 miles from the Madonna Inn. Situated on 116 acres of forest, hills, and meadows in Avila Valley, it’s renowned for its natural hot mineral springs, discovered in 1886, which provide therapeutic soaking experiences. Gardens of Avila Restaurant serves farm-to-table cuisine with organic produce from a 1-acre on-site Chef’s Garden.
Pismo Beach, California: A popular coastal town located about 12 miles from the Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo and roughly 10 miles south of Avila Beach. Known for its sandy beaches, iconic pier, and outdoor adventures, it’s a classic Central Coast destination perfect for families, surfers, and nature lovers. Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (3 miles from Pismo Beach) is the only California beach where vehicles are allowed.