Sands Inn & Suites

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

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Sands Inn & Suites

Two large beds with matching headboards, a desk, and a television.
Cozy living space with a sofa, kitchenette, and doorway to an adjacent room.
Relax by the pool surrounded by palm trees and lounge chairs.
Enjoy cooking in this well-equipped kitchen with a stainless steel refrigerator, black stove, and microwave, plus a convenient round table for meals.
Enjoy a meal with a view from this kitchen, featuring a dishwasher and stove, and a window overlooking lush greenery.

Popular amenities

  • Gym
  • Laundry

Explore the area

Map
1930 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401
  • California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Fremont Theater
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • San Luis Obispo, CA (SBP-San Luis Obispo County Regional)
    ‪9 min drive‬

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Room options

Room, 2 Queen Beds

7.8 out of 10
Good
(22 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Suite, Multiple Beds, Kitchenette

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

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

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

Suite, Multiple Beds, Patio (Kitchenette)

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

Studio Suite, Multiple Beds, Kitchen

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 King Beds

Superior Room, 1 King Bed

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

Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Room, 2 Queen Beds, Kitchenette

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

Room, 2 Double Beds, Mobility Accessible

7.6 out of 10
Good
(9 reviews)
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Economy Room, 1 King Bed

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

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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 Fremont Theater. 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
  • Fremont Theater - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Downtown SLO Farmers' Market - 2 min drive - 1.0 mile
  • Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa - 2 min drive - 1.6 miles
  • Bubblegum Alley - 2 min drive - 1.2 miles

Getting around

  • San Luis Obispo Station - 3 min drive
  • San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) - 13 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪VG Cafe - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Firestone Grill - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Woodstock's Pizza SLO - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪Jack in the Box - ‬2 min drive

About this property

Sands Inn & Suites

Motel with free breakfast, 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 securing valuables, tours or tickets, and luggage storage. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers food and water bowls. Additional amenities include a hot tub, meeting rooms, and conference space.
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.
An outdoor pool and a hot tub are on site. Other recreational amenities include a fitness center.

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

Languages

English, Spanish

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free offsite parking
  • Free self parking on site
  • Free RV/bus/truck parking on site
  • Onsite parking includes off-street options

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
  • Hot tub
  • Outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities
  • Outdoor pool

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
  • 24-hour business center
  • Computer station
  • Meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Picnic area
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)

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)
  • Free local calls
  • Heating (climate-controlled)
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: midnight
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in fee: USD 24
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
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
If you are planning to arrive after midnight please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation

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 (50 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
  • Food and water bowls are available
  • 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
  • Early check-in fee: USD 24 (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out fee: USD 25.00 (subject to availability)
  • 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:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant 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 Jul 28, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sands Inn & Suites on Jul 29, 2025 start from $107.1, 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 17-minute walk from Fremont Theater and also 17 minutes on foot from Performing Arts Center. You'll also find San Luis Obispo County Library and San Luis Obispo Superior Court less than a mile away.

Is parking available on site at Sands Inn & Suites?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the motel. Free RV/bus/truck parking is 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 are an outdoor pool and a hot tub.

What do couples enjoy most about Sands Inn & Suites?

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

Are there hot tubs at Sands Inn & Suites?

Yes, guests can enjoy a spa tub at this motel.

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. The property also provides food and water bowls. A deposit of USD 150 per stay is collected.

Are there connecting rooms at Sands Inn & Suites?

No, this motel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

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 (13 minutes by car). Another top airport is Santa Maria, CA (SMX-Santa Maria Public), which is around 29.2 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies 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. 113 out of 277 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 79 out of 277 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 45 out of 277 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 18 out of 277 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 22 out of 277 reviews

8.2/10

Cleanliness

8.4/10

Staff & service

7.6/10

Amenities

7.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.6/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Alliah

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

celia

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was clean and the staff was nice and very helpful.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Zaira

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
First time out there for a tournament and I would deff. go back to this hotel if in the area again!!!!!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
All was great!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Hady

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Clean facility but overpriced comparing to similar hotels
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maria

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Dan

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Parking is a bit tight. And the ADA rooms could use an armoire or a closet other than the one in the bathroom. Scott at the front desk was GREAT! Enjoyed the breakfast also. I’ll be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Philip

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Disliked: Staff & service

Careful

Hotel has tried to charge me three times so far.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

brandon

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice room - great staff
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Brian

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Stephen

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

Get Away Holiday:

The personal service was amazing!! Sabastian was personal, professional and made sure our VERY late check in was as pleasant as arriving at 3pm. The hotel is not new but is very clean and comfortable. Their breakfast is as good as any "breakfast included" hotel. Sausage, Scramble Eggs microwave style, fresh waffles, apples. The coffee though hot was not very good. We took the train and found the hotel was perfectly situated to walk the sights of SLO and other then to and from the Train Station a car is not needed. Meal prices were cheaper than San Fernando Valley or Los Angeles. (It currently cost $23.00 for a simple omelet with hashbrowns and a Hemberger is $18.00..LA has become a real ripoff and SLO is truly worth the wonderful train ride, and the beautiful and easy walk around town.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Craig

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
While visiting Cal Poly, we stayed at the Sands Inn, and we enjoyed it tremendously. The hotel was very nicely kept, the location is terrific for access to both the university and the San Luis Obispo downtown, and the staff was very responsive. The breakfast was also very nice. We would absolutely stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

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

Solid Stay for a Overnight!

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

MELINA

Good
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bernardo

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

4/10 Poor

christian

Disliked: Cleanliness
Disappointed and Wouldn’t Return I was really hoping for a more comfortable and well-kept stay, but unfortunately, this hotel missed the mark in several areas. The room didn’t feel very clean upon arrival, which immediately set the wrong tone. Several light bulbs were either out or flickering, leaving the space dim and poorly lit—especially in the bathroom, which made it feel even more uninviting. Noise was also a big issue. The walls were incredibly thin—we could hear conversations, footsteps, and TVs from surrounding rooms at all hours. It made it really difficult to relax or get a good night’s sleep. One of the biggest disappointments was the pull-out bed. It was in terrible condition—thin, lumpy, and clearly not maintained. It felt like an afterthought rather than a real sleeping option. Overall, the experience didn’t meet expectations. Between the lack of cleanliness, poor lighting, noise issues, and uncomfortable bedding, I wouldn’t stay here again or recommend it to others unless some serious updates are made.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Aura

Nice and quiet place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Melissa

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Convenient and affordable option for a family visit to cal poly slo
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

4/10 Poor

Jose, santa rosa

Business traveler, Traveled with family
Disliked: Amenities
Upon entering the rooms, it has an old smell and the TVs did not have a remote control and the fan was very dirty, so I didn't want to turn it on so that all the black dust that you can see wouldn't fall on me.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location, 15-20 minute walk from downtown, same to CalPoly. Great pool and hot tub. Extremely friendly staff and service. Breakfast was good. Overall good deal for the money.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alejandro

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

2/10 Terrible

Nadine

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

ANTHONY

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mageshkumar, Petaluma

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent location, room and staff. Great value for family stay. Thank you.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025