Explore the Coast Overnight

The California Coastal Conservancy’s “Explore the Coast Overnight” program provides grant funding to develop or expand low‑cost coastal lodging (hotels, motels, hostels, campgrounds, RV sites, cabins, yurts, dorms, etc.) for Californians—especially low‑ and middle‑income households, communities of color, and underserved groups. Funding can cover planning, design, permitting, and construction phases. Eligible applicants are nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public agencies, and federally recognized tribal governments. Projects must be within 1.5 mi of the coast or otherwise demonstrate easy coastal access. The grant pool totals $5 million, with an unspecified number of awards; each award’s amount is dependent on proposals. The typical performance period is 3‑4 years, and funds are reimbursed in arrears after submission of a Request for Disbursement. • Eligible applicants: nonprofits (501(c)(3)), public agencies, tribal governments • Eligible activities: planning, design, permitting, construction of affordable coastal accommodations • Geographic focus: within 1.5 mi of the California coastline (priority) • Funding source: State Proposition 68, reimbursable in arrears • Total available funding: $5 M (award count & per‑award amount TBD) • Performance period: usually 3‑4 years • Letter of intent required; no matching funds required