Sands Inn & Suites

2.5 star property
Motel with free parking, near California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

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Photo gallery for Sands Inn & Suites

Lobby
Free daily continental breakfast
Free daily continental breakfast
Studio Suite, Multiple Beds, Kitchen | Pillowtop beds, desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board
Lobby

Reviews

7.8 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
1930 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401
  • Place, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Place, Fremont Theater
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Place, Downtown SLO Farmers' Market
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Airport, San Luis Obispo, CA (SBP-San Luis Obispo County Regional)
    ‪10 min drive‬

Room options

Economy Room, 1 King Bed

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(38 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Room, 2 Double Beds, Mobility Accessible

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(11 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

7.4 out of 10
Good
(38 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Suite, Multiple Beds, Kitchenette

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(9 reviews)
  • 375 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 Double Sofa Bed and 2 Queen Beds

Room, 2 Queen Beds

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(24 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Superior Room, 1 King Bed

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(10 reviews)
  • 355 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Suite, Multiple Beds, Patio (Kitchenette)

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(7 reviews)
  • 375 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Double Sofa Bed and 1 King Bed

Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(5 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Studio Suite, Multiple Beds, Kitchen

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 King Beds

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About the neighborhood

San Luis Obispo

Within a short walk of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, Sands Inn & Suites is within a mile (2 km) of Performing Arts Center. This 70-room motel welcomes guests with conveniences like free breakfast, an outdoor pool, and free in-room WiFi.

What's nearby

  • California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Performing Arts Center - 16 min walk - 0.9 miles
  • Fremont Theater - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Downtown SLO Farmers' Market - 2 min drive - 1.0 mile
  • Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa - 3 min drive - 1.2 miles

Getting around

  • San Luis Obispo Station - 4 min drive
  • San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) - 14 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Lure Fish House - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪VG Cafe - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Jack in the Box - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Scout Coffee Co. - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Petra Mediterranean Pizza and Grill - ‬14 min walk

About this property

Sands Inn & Suites

Motel with free parking, near California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Guests of Sands Inn & Suites have access to an outdoor pool, a gym, and free WiFi in public areas. You can take advantage of free parking if you drive. The front desk has multilingual staff that can help with luggage storage, securing valuables, and tours or tickets. Additional amenities include meeting rooms, conference space, and coffee/tea in a common area.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 32-inch flat-screen TVs with digital channels. Pillowtop beds grant a restful night's sleep and bathrooms offer hair dryers. Other standard amenities include refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers.
Recreational amenities at the motel include an outdoor pool and a fitness center.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

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 covered self parking on site
  • Free RV/bus/truck parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast available daily 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Things to do

  • Gym
  • Outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • Fenced pool
  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities
  • Outdoor pool
  • Pool gate

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • 2,500 square feet of conference space
  • Computer station
  • Meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 3 accessible parking spaces
  • Braille/raised signage
  • No elevator
  • Visual fire alarm
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk (32 inches high)

More

  • 2 floors
  • 3 buildings
  • Banquet hall
  • Built in 1985
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes
  • Pillowtop mattress

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 32-inch flat-screen TV with premium digital channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Access via exterior corridors
  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Free local calls
  • Heating (climate-controlled)
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 11:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out fee: USD 25.00
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
The front desk is open daily from 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 25.00 per accommodation, per night (maximum USD 75.00 per stay), plus a deposit of USD 150 per stay
  • Dogs only
  • 2 total (40 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
  • Pets may not be left unsupervised
  • Certain rooms only, restrictions apply
  • Guests can request a pet-friendly room by contacting the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Up to 2 kids 17 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 10.0 per stay

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

  • Pet deposit: USD 150 per stay
  • Pet fee: USD 25.00 per accommodation, per night (maximum USD 75.00 per stay)
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Late check-out fee: USD 25.00
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 10.0 per stay

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; cash is not accepted
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Safety features at this property include a smoke detector
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours, and checking out is easy with express services. Driving? This property offers free self parking, along with free RV, bus, and truck 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.
  • 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. 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.
  • This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
  • Onsite safety features include a smoke detector.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Pool access available from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Sands Inn
Sands Inn San Luis Obispo
Sands San Luis Obispo
Sands Hotel San Luis Obispo
Sands Inn And Suites
Sands Inn & Suites Motel
Sands Inn & Suites San Luis Obispo
Sands Inn & Suites Motel San Luis Obispo

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Sands Inn & Suites?

Sands Inn & Suites provides free cancellation on certain room rates. For more details, review the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at Sands Inn & Suites?

As of Jan 26, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sands Inn & Suites on Feb 5, 2026 start from $89.1, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What is there to do within easy reach of Sands Inn & Suites?

This motel is located in San Luis Obispo, a short 20-minute walk from Fremont Theater and also 17 minutes on foot from Performing Arts Center. You'll also find Ah Louis Store and Downtown SLO Farmers' Market within a short drive.

Is there parking available at Sands Inn & Suites?

Yes, covered self parking is offered for free at the motel. Accessible parking and free RV/bus/truck parking are also available for guests.

Does Sands Inn & Suites include a casino at the property?

No, Sands Inn & Suites doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Sands Inn & Suites?

No, this motel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool. Guests have pool access between 9:00 AM and 10:00 PM.

Is Sands Inn & Suites a good place to stay for couples?

Couples staying at this motel will appreciate amenities like a pillowtop mattress as well as an outdoor pool and free breakfast.

Does Sands Inn & Suites have a hot tub?

No, this motel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Sands Inn & Suites have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Sands Inn & Suites offers free continental breakfast each morning though there is no restaurant.

Does Sands Inn & Suites allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, dogs are welcome at Sands Inn & Suites for a fee of USD 25.00 per accommodation, per night. A deposit of USD 150 per stay is collected.

Are there connecting rooms at Sands Inn & Suites?

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

Where is the closest airport to Sands Inn & Suites?

The closest major airport to Sands Inn & Suites is San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP), which is 4.2 mi away (14 minutes by car). Another top airport is Santa Maria, CA (SMX-Santa Maria Public), which is around 29.2 mi away.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Sands Inn & Suites?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Sands Inn & Suites.

Sands Inn & Suites Reviews

Reviews

7.8

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 195 out of 482 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 137 out of 482 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 85 out of 482 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 33 out of 482 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 32 out of 482 reviews

8.2/10

Cleanliness

8.4/10

Staff & service

7.6/10

Amenities

7.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed for one night with family. Rooms comfortable and had minimal amenities needed for one evening stay. Great breakfast and good customer service
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Holly

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Cynthia

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Amenities
Bagels were moldy and the floor in our room was loose
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cassandra

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The man who checked us in was very friendly and helpful. Our room was clean, seemed newly renovated and was spacious. Breakfast was basic with fruit yogurts bagels and make your own waffles. It suited our needs perfectly for a visit to CalPoly.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Stephen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
No USB plugs and pillows were terrible.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Joseph, Irvine

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Easy access from Highway and close to downtown amenities, breakfast is as expected.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Dana

Disliked: Cleanliness, room comfort
Things broken in room -no toilet paper roll holder
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Michael D.

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Clean room
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Deborah

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Jake

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Joy

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Rachel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Breakfast options were great, they also appeared to extend the time later than expected for additional guests. Our TV remote did not work, likely a dead battery, and had to use controls on the side of the TV. The AC was bizarrely high up on the wall where you had to climb on top of a counter dangerously to adjust it to meet your comfort. There was a lack of pillows, two total for two people and a queen/king bed (we went to the front desk late at night to get more due to lack of phones in the rooms). The bed was basically made with a couple layers of sheets, not a comforter at all. Our bed was also broken on the side so it sunk down. My husband was gracious enough to take the broken side for the night and we informed the staff in the morning (wish i documented the room #). Outlets were very few and did not work in the room. The staff was nice and helpful, however, the property is outdated and not stocked appropriately.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Julie

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
good value, clean room, comfortable, quiet
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

EDNA

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We stayed in the patio suite and greatly enjoyed the extra room and kitchenette. The price per value is very good and there have been uogrades to the property that will make us return again. Heated pool and spa was especially appreciated at end of day. Pet friendly too.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Good size room. Loved the pool. Breakfast was good. Lots of hairs throughout the room and bathroom. Would stay again
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Miguel A, Live Oak

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great Hotel! Nice staff! The Pool was great as well it just needs newer pool floaties, the floaties you had were falling apart. Other than that I would definitely book here again from my experience!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Matthew

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Staff was very kind and courteous. Room was clean but run down. No toilet paper holder (broken), so TP was on the back of toilet. No hand soap at the sink. Hair dryer was broken.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Hillary

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Decent place - pool was great. Staff was super helpful & breakfast was decent. Stayed for proximity to farmers market
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

john

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
1 night trip. Check in and out was easy. Good water pressure for shower. Bed was decent not worn out yet. Breakfast, just like any other noting special.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rhona

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Clean room, friendly and helpful staff.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Ella

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Parking was easy
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Stacy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
This motel is well located and close to downtown. The room i stayed in was a good basic room. I appreciated the fact that the breakfast byffet came with a variety of options. The staff was friendly and helpful. The walls were a little thin.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Kathleen

Traveled with family
Disliked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Parking was ok. The room was NOT like the pictures advertised. Not even close. Room was very small. No wash cloths, no floor mats, awkward room layout very small for 4 people. Looked like a refresh was attempted but poorly executed. There was something spilled back behind desk and splattered down the wall. Bedding was thin. Booked for 4 people, only stocked with 3 towels. When we went to front desk for another towel, staff seemed put out. When room was cleaned did not restock toilet paper and had to go to desk to ask for more. Overall was ok for price point but I will not stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

4/10 Poor

Kathleen

Traveled with family
Disliked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Someone was given a key to our room to check in prior to check out, they walked in while my daughter was changing! When I went to the front desk, he said sorry thought it was empty??? The toaster in the breakfast area was broken and looked unsafe, tables were dirty, chairs were broken.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Margareth

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

Sweet Suite in SLO

Sands Inn felt like a nostalgic motel of the 60s, when the world moved a little slower and life is relaxed. The rooms are clean and spacious. The bathroom upgraded and feels brand new. There is parking in front of your room which made it convenient since we had heavy luggage. Breakfast if offered as early has 7:00 am. Just make sure you check your room for the hairdryer if you need one...they were wating for their hairdryers on order.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025