"Lounge chairs and fireplaces on bluff above the beach were awesome."
Marsha from United States
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"We loved the location of the hotel right next to the water."
Joseph from United States
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"The fire pits, easy access to the beach, and proximity to many wonderful sites all added to our experience."
Leslie R from United States
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San Simeon Stay
Sands by the Sea is located off Highway 1, offering a spot to rest. It is near Hearst Castle and Cambria. The hotel is situated on a seaside bluff, steps from the Pacific Ocean. Sands by the Sea is near beaches, nature trails, and landmarks on California's Central Coast.
Rooms
The hotel includes 33 rooms, each featuring free WiFi, a flat screen TV with premium channels, a mini-refrigerator, and a microwave. Guests can select a room with one king or two queen beds. Connecting rooms are available. The hotel provides hearing and mobility accessible rooms.
Cavalier Coastal Kitchen
Cavalier Coastal Kitchen is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It has views of the Pacific Ocean and serves traditional American dishes. The restaurant features Hearst Ranch Beef and seafood. Guests can have a glass of wine, beer, or cocktail at the bar.
Central Coast Activities
Sands by the Sea is near Hearst Castle, which offers tours. The Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery is a 10-minute drive and features a viewing station. Sands by the Sea is a viewing site of The Whale Trail. The Central Coast is visited by the California Gray Whale, Humpback Whale, and Blue Whale.
Hotel Amenities
Sands by the Sea includes free WiFi, a mini-refrigerator, a coffeemaker, and a microwave in all rooms. The hotel has a 24-hour front desk and free parking. Pet-friendly rooms are available.
“This motel strikes me as a solid budget option near the coast, where the ocean views and fire pits impress more than the basic rooms. I appreciate the direct beach access and on-site dining, even if some facilities show their age. If you call to book, you can request the room you want.”
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
Select your room type
Sands By The Sea Motel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Queen Room Two Queen Beds
2 persons
25 sq. feet
2 King Size Beds
Bathtub
Heating
room details
King Room
2 persons
25 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Heating
Coffee machine
room details
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Sands By The Sea Motel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Very good
7.5/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
24-hour reception
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Vending machines
Fireplace
Sports & Fitness
Hiking
Cycling
Fishing
Services
Room service
Dining
Restaurant
Picnic area/ Tables
Business
Business centre
Spa & Leisure
Indoor swimming pool
Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Sun loungers
Pool with view
Shallow end
Room features
Heating
Garden furniture
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Media
Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
Carpeted floor
Show more
Dining Onsite
At Sands By The Sea Motel, dining is a delightful experience that combines comfort and ocean views. The Cavalier Coastal Kitchen serves classic American fare with a casual setting, perfect for families and friends seeking delicious meals in a beautiful locale.
Cavalier Coastal Kitchen
American
Ambiance
Casual dining with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for friends and families alike.
Key Offerings
Offers a selection of traditional American favorites, alongside options for a glass of wine, a pint of beer, or a handcrafted cocktail at the bar.
Reservation
Not needed
Open daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Sands By The Sea Motel Location
9355 Hearst Drive, San Simeon, 93452,
Explore San Simeon
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay
8 minutes' walk
Visitor center showcasing marine life, local history, and offering guided experiences for all ages.
Friends Of The Elephant Seal Gift Shop
8 minutes' walk
Unique shop focused on elephant seals with educational displays. Great for family outings.
San Simeon State Park
4 minutes' drive
A vast park with scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and coastal views, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Jade Cove
8 minutes' walk
A beautiful coastal spot known for its jade stone and stunning ocean views, ideal for nature lovers.
Hiking at Boucher Trail
2 minutes' walk
A short yet thrilling hike offering breathtaking coastal views, suitable for all experience levels.
Relaxation at San Simeon State Beach
8 minutes' walk
A serene beach perfect for sunbathing and relaxing walks along the shore. Accessible year-round.
Exploring San Carpoforo Creek and Beach
2 minutes' walk
A tranquil spot for quiet reflection, picnics, and enjoying wildlife in a beautiful natural setting.
Manta Rey Restaurant
9 minutes' walk
Casual eatery renowned for fresh seafood and local dishes featuring stunning ocean views.
Carriage Restaurant
9 minutes' walk
Charming atmosphere serving hearty American meals and vegetarian options. Reservations recommended.
San Simeon Liquor
5 minutes' walk
Convenient spot for snacks and quick bites with a range of drinks and local treats.
Hearst Castle Visitor Center
13 minutes' drive
Home to guided castle tours highlighting art and architecture. A must-visit historical experience.
Cambria Community Arts Center
10 minutes' drive
Venue for local art exhibitions and community events. Family-friendly atmosphere showcasing local talent.
Nitt Witt Ridge
8 minutes' drive
Unique house and art installation that offers guided tours. Perfect for architecture enthusiasts.
Getting around
City Centre
San Simeon 9 min · 3.4 mi
Airports
San Luis Obispo County Regional (SBP) 107 min · 44.0 mi
Bus
Bus stop 3 min · 700 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-22:00
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
33
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Sands By The Sea Motel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 567 verified reviews
7.6 /10
Very good
71 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
7.7/10
Comfort
7.8/10
Facilities
7.5/10
Free WiFi
9.0/10
Location
8.9/10
Staff
8.7/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Beach access
Heated pools
Pleasant staff
Cons
Poor breakfast
Guest reviews
based on 689 reviews
7.6/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About Sands By The Sea Motel
Is it possible to have a pet-friendly room during my stay?
5 January 2024
All rooms are pet-friendly, and no additional charge is required. A pet policy must be signed upon check-in.
Are refrigerators available in the guest rooms?
12 March 2024
Yes, each guest room is equipped with a refrigerator and a microwave for your convenience.
What breakfast options are provided for guests?
20 February 2024
Each guest receives a voucher each morning for toast or a muffin, along with fruit juice or coffee, or a $5 meal credit for menu items at Cavalier Coastal Kitchen.
Can guests reserve fire pits on the property?
14 April 2024
Fire pits are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with wood provided by the maintenance staff.
Is parking available for guests?
22 June 2024
Complimentary onsite parking is available for all guests visiting the property.
Are there any options for an extra fan in the room?
16 September 2024
Fans are available upon request for guest rooms to ensure added comfort.
Can guests access fire pits at the nearby sister property?
30 November 2024
Guests are welcome to use the fire pits at the sister property, with wood provided each evening.
Are there connecting rooms available for larger groups or families?
9 May 2024
Connecting rooms can be booked to accommodate families or groups traveling together.
What attractions are nearby for visitors to explore?
1 July 2024
Attractions such as Hearst Castle, beautiful beaches, and scenic nature trails are all within a short drive.
Are there any outdoor dining options nearby?
27 August 2024
Cavalier Coastal Kitchen, located just steps away, offers a delightful menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with ocean views.
Do you have any accessible rooms for guests with disabilities?
18 October 2024
ADA accessible rooms for hearing and mobility impairments are available for guests upon request.
What is the procedure for checking in after regular hours?
3 December 2024
If check-in occurs after 21:00, guests can complete the process at Cavalier Oceanfront Resort, which operates 24 hours.