Cliff House Inn

Between Ventura and Santa Barbara lies
Mussel Shoals. It's pretty much a blink of a
town as far as I could tell. Travelers with their
sights set on more the popular areas, pass
right by it, never knowing what they're
missing. That's okay though, the Los Angeles
Times Travel readers poll voted The Cliffside
Inn "in the top three preferred hotels/inns to
stay in California". It's a well kept secret that
makes it a perfectly romantic place to stay.
The inn is a converted motel with every room
boasting an ocean view. Though the rooms
can be quite inexpensive, they are tiny and
uneventful, and after surveying the premises
I find it really is worth the extra money to get
room #1, which is more than double in size,
with bigger windows, a fireplace and a large
Jacuzzi bathtub. Our weekday rate for this
room, was $190 in September. If you must
keep a tight budget there's still plenty here
worthwhile. We chose to stay here for the
pool which sets on the cliffs edge with an
unobstructed ocean view, but also for their
Shoals Restaurant which was recently voted
as "The Most Romantic Restaurant" in the
area. Opt for a candlelit table on the patio,
with a backdrop of crashing waves and you'll
know why. Inside is simple, but quaint with
cloth covered tables and a properly dressed
wait-staff. The Cliffside Inn really is a jewel.
The only thing unexpected was that the
swimming pool, which wasn't necessarily
private, and though you'd find it irresistible
not to face your lounge chair to overlook the
ocean, the pool sets right in front of the
restaurant, and next to outdoor diners which
could prove to be a bit awkward for some
people. This place really isn't for those
looking for adventure, but rather for starry
eyed couples and solitude seekers. It's quite
unique.

Located at 6602 W. Pacific Coast Hwy in
Mussel Shoals.

Telephone (800) 892-5433