While they sound similar, hotels use these terms to distinguish the specific angle and quality of the scenery from your window. An Ocean View room generally means that you can see the water from the room, but the room is not necessarily facing the ocean directly. It could be a "side" view or a view where the ocean is visible in the distance beyond other buildings or gardens. In contrast, a Coastal View typically emphasizes a vista that includes the shoreline, cliffs, or the curve of the land meeting the sea, rather than just open water. This can often be more scenic as it includes land-based landmarks. Neither should be confused with Oceanfront, which guarantees that the room faces the water directly with no obstructions. In 2026, many luxury resorts have added even more specific categories, so it is always wise to check the room's floor plan or photos to ensure the "view" meets your expectations.