By Anne Batty

Arising from the relics of a former inn, the newly remodeled and refurbished El Caminante Bar and Bungalows officially opened in June of 2024. Considered an example of the California motor court (commonly called motels), throughout its history, this newly revitalized and re-invented boutique hotel has changed names and hands several times over the years. 

 Once a popular retreat for Hollywood celebrities, this 80-year-old artifact, constructed during the 1940s across the sand from Doheny Beach, has had many names. Originally known as the Swallows Inn, it was later renamed the Capistrano Country Bay Inn, then the Seaside Inn, and has spent the last several years closed and seemingly abandoned. 

Operators of the Artist Guild Hotels, Jeff Finn and Danny Hyde bought the deserted Capistrano Beach property in 2021 with the intention of restoring and re-designing the motel’s 1.5 acres into “an eclectic Spanish Hacienda;” inspired by the old Doheny homes.

General Manager, Didi Shields says of the boutique hotel’s re-emergence, “It’s been quite a journey, but we’re finally ready to welcome guests. We’ve all worked hard to renovate and refresh the property while preserving its charm, and we’re excited to start a new chapter for this iconic beachside spot.”

 

What sets this hotel apart are the stunning ocean views from every room, terrace and patio, as well as its thoughtful touches throughout. Imported custom Saltillo tile flooring, hand-painted Talavera tile murals and authentic antique Monterey furniture along with vintage light fixtures and hand-carved Dutch doors, make for eye-pleasing surroundings. Providing a home-away-from-home atmosphere, this bungalow inn offers not only inviting accommodations, but a fully stocked bar, luxurious linens, plush bedding, and cozy fireplaces inside and out. 

Situated on Coast Hwy below the Capistrano Beach Palisades, amenities at this adult’s only lodge include complementary electric bikes, California State Park passes, Hyperice massage equipment, ALO Moves app workouts, a restaurant, bar and lounge, room service, coffee machines, flat-screen TVs, free toiletries, parking and laundry facilities. Patrons can enjoy a day on the beach, a bike or trolly ride to the Dana Point Harbor for a dining and/or shopping experience, or can just chill, enjoying the comfortable surrounding and plentiful amenities provided here. 

When speaking about these bungalows with admiration, Shields says, “this is a property that pays tribute to the rich Spanish Hacienda architectural heritage prevalent in the area and one of my favorite touches is that all the first-floor bungalows feature spacious outdoor patios with panoramic coastal views and charming clay chimineas enhancing the coastal visiting and viewing experience.”

 

Managed by Evolution Hospitality Management’s curated collection of independent luxury, boutique lifestyle and soft brand hotels - including bars and lounges throughout America - a hard-working staff awaits, thrilled to welcome guests, locals and visitors from around the world who come to enjoy a place to escape, relax and unwind.

Convenient for San Clemente residents, family and friends, the next time someone comes for a visit or might be looking for a little staycation, the El Caminante Bar and Bungalows might just be the place to stay. In the meantime all are invited to drop by, enjoy a drink or perhaps a meal, explore the property and revel in the beauty that the Southern California coast is most noted for.b

For further information, rates, specials or to make reservations, take a look at the website www.elcaminantehotel.com or call (949)368-3222.