Animal Crossing: New Horizons (ACNH) Version 3.0 has brought a refreshing wave of new features, and one of the most exciting additions is the expanded hotel and pier area. The Resort Hotel is now open for business, and with the new pier comes new design opportunities. Creative players everywhere are reimagining their island hotels, taking advantage of the extra space and customizable options to deliver both functionality and visual charm. In this guide, we’ll look at the Hotel Pier layout tips, design inspiration, and highlight some of the most inventive hotel pier and entrance designs from the ACNH community.

Animal Crossing New Horizons 3.0 Hotel Pier Design Ideas

The Resort Hotel, now open for business, brings with it fresh opportunities for creativity, especially with the new pier. Nintendo’s update has not only expanded the pier surface but also made it possible to use Custom Designs and almost any furniture item in this area. Placing essential tools such as a crafting table, cooking station, or storage shed nearby means you’ll have everything you need at hand—perfect for grabbing or donating already crafted items.

This new space isn’t just about utility. Many players have found that adding a cooler next to Kapp’n or layering in seasonal items can make the pier both practical and visually engaging. The freedom to swap out decor as the seasons change or to match your island’s unique style is a huge part of the fun. With these new features, the hotel pier and entrance can become anything from a bustling social hub to a quiet scenic retreat.

ACNH 3.0 Hotel Pier Layout & Size

One of the standout changes in Version 3.0 is the expanded size of the pier area. Previously, the overhang was fairly limited, making it tricky to fit more than a few items. Now, the pier offers enough room to comfortably arrange furniture like couches, tables, and more. You can even use custom design flooring, adding paths, footprints, or patterns that guide guests to the hotel entrance in style.

This extra space also means you can experiment with different layouts. Some players have managed to block the hotel entryway entirely for a unique effect, while others keep paths open and welcoming. The flexibility of the expanded pier means you can adjust your layout as inspiration strikes, whether you want a lively patio or a serene garden.

ACNH 3.0 Hotel Pier & Entrance Design Ideas

When deciding how to decorate your hotel pier and entrance, consider both function and flair. Here are some tips and ideas that have proven effective:

• Combine Essentials and Decor: Keep a crafting table, cooking station, and sometimes a storage shed within easy reach on the pier. These basics make crafting and storing items much easier during your daily island routine.

• Functional Aesthetics: Items like coolers not only serve a purpose but also add to the ambiance, especially when placed near Kapp’n or integrated into themed builds.

• Tropical Resort Vibe: For a beachy escape, set up a little outdoor bar using the cover counter, frozen drink machine, and a few drinks on display. Hide a compact kitchen behind the counter for subtle access to cooking, and use a storage shed as a cabana next to a surfboard.

• Kidcore Charm: Layer in colorful items like froggy chairs, cute DIY tables, bubble gum machines, and claw machines. Make the space feel playful with a bit of creative clutter, and swap out items as your collection grows.

• Luxurious Entrance: Use floor lights along the dock for a glowing effect in the evening. Add palm plants, a welcome sign, and elegant touches like a ship in a bottle or lilies. A storage shed can double as a cabana, and a bench gives guests a place to relax and enjoy the view.

• Realistic Guest Flow: Set up a sitting area with suitcases, newspapers, and even a gas station pump for Kapp’n. Use muted colors and a street lamp to evoke the feeling of an active, welcoming hotel entrance.

• Fishing and Excursions: Nautical touches like a ship in a bottle and signposts pointing to various island attractions make the pier inviting for those heading out on boat tours. A ukulele for Kapp’n and plenty of signposts can guide guests to their next adventure.

• Seasonal Swaps: Change out decor for each season, think snow footprints and white fencing in winter, or fresh flowers and patio furniture in spring.

ACNH 3.0 Creative Hotel Pier & Entrance Designs

The ACNH community has already delivered a variety of creative and inspiring hotel pier designs since the 3.0 update. Here are some fabulous ideas:

• String Lights & Lounge Retreat Pier

One especially charming design transforms the hotel pier into a cozy, laid-back retreat with a blend of beachside and resort elements. Rows of string lights are draped between posts, casting a gentle glow and creating a welcoming nighttime atmosphere. The entrance features a soft path of custom stone and leaf designs, guiding guests to rows of white lounge chairs that face the water—perfect for relaxing and taking in the sea views.

Shared by Mary Walling on FB

There’s a surfboard standing ready for adventure, and both sides of the pier are dotted with tiki torches and lanterns for extra warmth. The market stall and signboard add a touch of local flavor, while decorative grasses, a potted monstera, and scattered autumn leaves provide natural accents. An inviting red leaf pile sits close to the door, enhancing the seasonal vibes. The addition of lifebuoys along the edge gives the pier a nautical feel, and Kapp’n’s boat is docked nearby, ready for island tours. The overall effect is a harmonious blend of comfort, fun, and seaside style, making this pier an ideal spot for guests to gather and unwind.