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From69US$ /night
Check-in
19Jan2026Select date
Check-out
20Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

9355 Hearst Drive, San Simeon, California, United States, 93452
-
Close to San Carpoforo Creek and Beach
Very good
7.7
7.9
/10
3.3
/5

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.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

The hotel 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
270 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Coffee machine
King Room
2 persons
270 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Free 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
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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

Location

9355 Hearst Drive, San Simeon, California, United States, 93452
Map view
9355 Hearst Drive, San Simeon, California, United States, 93452
Nearby
Half Mile North of the Piedras Blancas Light Station.
Boucher trail
500 ft
18862-18610 CA-1
San Carpoforo Creek and Beach
500 ft
Restaurants
Carriage Restaurant
2300 ft
9290 Castillo Dr
Manta Rey Restaurant
2500 ft
9240 Castillo Dr
San Simeon Liquor
1300 ft
431 Pico Ave
Explore San Simeon
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay
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
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
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
Manta Rey Restaurant
9 minutes' walk
Casual eatery renowned for fresh seafood and local dishes featuring stunning ocean views.
Carriage Restaurant
Carriage Restaurant
9 minutes' walk
Charming atmosphere serving hearty American meals and vegetarian options. Reservations recommended.
San Simeon Liquor
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
Nitt Witt Ridge
8 minutes' drive
Unique house and art installation that offers guided tours. Perfect for architecture enthusiasts.
Getting around
City Centre
San Simeon9 min  ·  3.4 mi
Airports
San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP)107 min  ·  44.0 mi
Bus
Bus stop3 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
is available in for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
33
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.

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