The Sand Dunes

2.0 star property
Hotel on the beach, with seasonal outdoor pool

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Photo gallery for The Sand Dunes

Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchen, Oceanfront | Terrace/patio
Seasonal outdoor pool, open 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, pool umbrellas
Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchen, Oceanfront | Private kitchen | Fridge, microwave, coffee/tea maker, paper towels
Room, 2 Queen Beds, Balcony, Poolside | Terrace/patio
Blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
133 Fort Fisher Blvd S, Kure Beach, NC, 28449
  • Place, Kure Beach
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Kure Beach Pier
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Ocean Front Park
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Airport, Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)
    ‪38 min drive‬

Room options

Suite, Oceanfront

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(7 reviews)
  • 450 sq ft
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Double Beds and 1 Queen Bed

Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchen, Oceanfront

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(25 reviews)
  • 358 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Room, 2 Queen Beds, Balcony, Poolside

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(18 reviews)
  • 358 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Room, 2 Double Beds, City View

8.2 out of 10
Very good
(11 reviews)
  • 226 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Room, City View

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • 220 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Standard Room, City View

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Standard Room, City View

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Room, 2 Double Beds, Kitchen, Oceanfront

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(3 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Suite, 2 Bedrooms, City View

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Double Beds

Suite, 2 Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Double Beds

Standard Room

  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

About the neighborhood

Kure Beach

The Sand Dunes places you next to Kure Beach and within a mile (2 km) of other popular attractions like Carolina Beach. Each of the 38 rooms at this hotel includes a refrigerator, a microwave, and a coffee maker.

What's nearby

  • Kure Beach - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Kure Beach Pier - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Ocean Front Park - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Joe Eakes Park - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Carolina Beach - 19 min walk - 1.0 mile

Getting around

  • Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM) - 38 min drive

Restaurants

  • The Sandspur
  • Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar
  • Havana's Restaurant
  • Hurricane Alley's
  • Shuckin' Shack

About this property

The Sand Dunes

Hotel on the beach, with seasonal outdoor pool
Guests of The Sand Dunes enjoy free WiFi in public areas, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a terrace. If you plan to drive, free parking is available. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers an off-leash area.
43-inch Smart TVs come with cable channels and Netflix, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers are other standard amenities. Housekeeping is available once per stay.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include a seasonal outdoor pool.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 25+ Mbps
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free uncovered self parking on site
  • Limited onsite self parking (max 1 space per unit)

Things to do

  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • Fenced pool
  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Pool gate
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Guidebooks

Guest services

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Housekeeping (once per stay)

Outdoors

  • On the beach
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • 3 buildings
  • 3 floors
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Traditional architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 43-inch smart TV with cable channels
  • Hulu
  • Netflix
  • Streaming services

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in fee: USD 35.00
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property
The check-in location differs from the property location; go to: [Admirals Quarters 129 Fort Fisher Blvd S Kure Beach, NC 28449]
Guests will receive an email within 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions and an access code; access will be through a private entrance
Prior to arrival, you must complete online registration via a secure link
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Guests will receive a text message at 11 AM on the check-in date with check-in instructions.

Access methods

Access code, private entrance

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 50.00 per accommodation, per day
  • Dogs only
  • 2 total (40 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
  • Pets may not be left unsupervised
  • An off-leash area is available
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Destination fee: USD 3 per accommodation, per night

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Pet fee: USD 50.00 per accommodation, per day
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Early check-in fee: USD 35.00 (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM—-anytime
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards and debit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • The seasonal pool is open from April 15 to October 15.
  • Pool access available from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

The Sand Dunes Hotel
The Sand Dunes Kure Beach
The Sand Dunes Hotel Kure Beach

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at The Sand Dunes?

The Sand Dunes offers free cancellation on select room rates. If you'd like to learn more, take a look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

What's there to see around The Sand Dunes?

Guests positively rate the hotel's walkable location in Kure Beach, just steps from Kure Beach and Ocean Front Park, and within a short walk of Joe Eakes Park. You'll also find Carolina Beach and Carolina Beach Boardwalk within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at The Sand Dunes?

Yes, uncovered self parking is offered for free at the hotel. You'll find a max of 1 space per unit.

Does The Sand Dunes include a casino at the property?

No, The Sand Dunes doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at The Sand Dunes?

No, this hotel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool. Guests have access between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM and the seasonal pool will be open from April 15 until October 15.

What amenities will couples enjoy at The Sand Dunes?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this beachfront hotel include Netflix as well as a seasonal outdoor pool and a terrace.

Are there hot tubs at The Sand Dunes?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hotel.

Does The Sand Dunes have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

No, The Sand Dunes doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will The Sand Dunes allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, dogs are welcome at The Sand Dunes for a fee of USD 50.00 per accommodation, per day. The property also provides an off-leash area.

Are there connecting rooms at The Sand Dunes?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

How close is the airport from The Sand Dunes?

The closest major airport to The Sand Dunes is Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM), which is 23.6 mi away (38 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at The Sand Dunes?

Yes, some guestrooms at this hotel offer a balcony where guests can enjoy ocean or pool views.

The Sand Dunes Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 309 out of 490 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 102 out of 490 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 43 out of 490 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 23 out of 490 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 13 out of 490 reviews

8.8/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

8.4/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.2/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Patricia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
On the beach which was perfect! Hotel is old but has charm.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Krisztina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Dustin

Traveled with group
Liked: Staff & service
Mattresses were awful, and room had a musty cigarette smell. Customer service was great.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Glenda

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room, great size room, location close to pier, rooms are updated. The balcony ocean view. I will return. Affordable!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

4/10 Poor

Shamim

Traveled with partner
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Bathroom and outlook very old windoes block the occean view allover old building
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Christopher

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
I did not see any ice machines or vending machines, however there was a store a block down the street along with several restaurants in the same walkable area
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Corwin

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
The room was dirty, dead flies all over, the parking lot shined their headlights right into the bedroom, the bed was pushed right against the window. There was mold all over the ceiling and bathroom, I have pictures. They double charged me even though I paid through Expedia and finally they ended up reimbursing me. If I didn’t get a good deal via Expedia I wouldn’t stay here ever. Saw cockroaches on their boardwalk and the walkways to the rooms.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Isabelle

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The room smelled something awful
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gary

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

Paige, Angier

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Donna

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Great place for a quick get away
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ginger

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very clean room. Very helpful staff. Will definitely come back to stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stanley

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

My first choice when fishing in Kure Beach

Clean room, great communications, can't beat the convenience to the beach. Pool is nice too.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Lisa

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We live the sand dunes. It is a quiet family place to stay. Convenient to everything. There was an issue getting the light timer to come on before dark but otherwise good. Staff was super nice and helpful. Could use some oven pans in the room instead of aluminum foil but worked in a pinch.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

Cary

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Everything was ok until we tried to leave the room. The lock didnt work. When we returned we were locked out. No one was in the office or answered the phone. After a while we fpund someone putside smoking who was the office person. Because hotels.com couldn’t charge is a $3 fee and Sands didn’t tell us they locked us out. Tv didnt work. AC was like a freight train. Not a great anniversary/birthday trip. Bathroom door didn’t close. Circuit breaker scary
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kellie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

DAVID

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Kure Beach, away from crowd but close to restauran

Amazing location. Cloudy and windy but still enjoyed beach
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

Jennifer

Traveled with family
Disliked: Amenities
Walls are marred and dirty everywhere. Curtains are old and faded. When I walked around barefooted for a little while, my feet became black with grime. Two pillows had dirty spots with either poop or blood? The AC was loud and literally falling apart. I went to the desk to get some duct tape but I was told “no”. Went to Walmart and bought some and taped it back together. Did get a one-day refund for that. Requested an upgrade to another room on the property but was told no because I booked through Expedia. Never again! BTW, I have photos for all of the above and would be happy to share
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Danny

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Greg

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort

Convenient location & great service

Shower area held together with tape, cracks in the walls, and bathroom was a little snug. Comfortable beds & pillows. Overall cleanliness was good, very convenient location. Parking was very tight.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Liberalino

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The property is nice and acces to the beach is wonderful.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

Holland

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
My room smelled horrible!! The air coming from the air vents smelled soured and so did the floors. The staff were nice but that didn’t make up for the moldy smells.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

The place is rundown giving no clean towels

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Kristi

Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
It is a no frills motel, but was clean and convenient to restaurants and the beach. It also has a dedicated parking lot.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tracy

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I enjoyed my stay—the view from the balcony was great of the ocean. Great walking distance to the pier and main restaurants of Kure beach.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025