Sands by The Sea

2.0 star property
Beach location and 2 outdoor pools

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Sands by The Sea

Relax by the fire pit in a serene oceanfront setting, surrounded by lush greenery.
Practice yoga amidst a serene coastal landscape with a tree as your backdrop.
Relax in a spacious living area with a high ceiling, wooden beams, and a comfortable sofa and armchair.
Relax in a serene space with a comfortable seating area, featuring a glass table and a plant.
Classic hotel room with two single beds, a nightstand, and a lamp.

Popular amenities

  • Breakfast available
  • Gym

Explore the area

Map
9355 Hearst Dr, San Simeon, CA, 93452
  • Moonstone Beach
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Moonstone Beach Park
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Hearst Castle
    ‪26 min drive‬

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Room options

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, No View

8.2 out of 10
Very good
(76 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, No View

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(93 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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About the neighborhood

San Simeon

Located within a 5-minute walk of Cambria State Marine Park, Sands by The Sea is within a 15-minute stroll of San Simeon State Park. This 33-room motel welcomes guests with 2 outdoor pools, a full-service spa, and free in-room WiFi.

What's nearby

  • San Simeon State Park - 1 min drive - 0.3 miles
  • Moonstone Beach - 5 min drive - 3.8 miles
  • Moonstone Beach Park - 5 min drive - 4.3 miles
  • San Simeon Pier - 5 min drive - 4.5 miles
  • Hearst Castle - 26 min drive - 8.8 miles

Getting around

  • San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) - 58 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Main Street Grill - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Linn's Restaurant - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪The Spot - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Cambria Coffee Roasting Company - ‬6 min drive

About this property

Sands by The Sea

Beach location and 2 outdoor pools
Guests of Sands by The Sea have access to a full-service spa, 2 outdoor pools, and a gym. You can put free parking to good use if you drive. Friendly staff can provide a safe deposit box at the front desk, and also offer advice about sightseeing. Other amenities at this beach motel include free WiFi in public areas, a business center, and coffee/tea in a common area.
LCD TVs come with satellite channels, and free WiFi keeps guests connected. Bathrooms have hair dryers and free toiletries. Other amenities include refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers. Housekeeping is available on request.
2 outdoor swimming pools are on site along with a fitness center.

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

Guests can indulge in a pampering treatment at the motel's full-service spa. Services include deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages, sports massages, and Swedish massages. The spa is open daily.

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 self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Daily cooked-to-order breakfast available 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM for a fee: USD 5 to 30 for adults and USD 5 to 30 for children
  • A restaurant
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Restaurants on site

  • Cavalier Coastal Kitchen

Things to do

  • 2 outdoor pools
  • Full-service spa
  • Gym

Family friendly

  • 2 outdoor pools
  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator

Conveniences

  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • Safe at front desk
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)

Business services

  • Business center

Outdoors

  • Direct access to the beach

Full-service spa

  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Hot stone massages
  • Prenatal massages
  • Spa open daily
  • Sports massages
  • Swedish massages

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Braille/raised signage
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible pool
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk

More

  • 2 floors
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

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

Entertainment

  • LCD TV with premium cable/satellite channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Ceiling fan
  • Connecting rooms available
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board on request

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out fee: USD 150

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open Friday - Sunday (1:00 PM - 9:00 PM)
The check-in location differs from the property location; go to: [9415 Hearst Drive, San Simeon, California 93452]
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for free
  • 1 total pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

  • Fee for cooked-to-order breakfast: approximately USD 5 to 30 for adults, and USD 5 to 30 for children
  • Late check-out fee: USD 150

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 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
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
  • Check-in: 4 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
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.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A credit card for incidental charges and 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. 
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Reservations need to be made in advance for massage services and spa treatments. Contact the motel at the phone number listed on your booking confirmation.
  • Connecting or adjoining rooms can be requested, but all rooms are subject to availability. Contact the property using the phone number on your booking confirmation.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Sands Sea Condo San Simeon
Sands Sea San Simeon
Sands By The Sea Hotel San Simeon
Sands Hotel San Simeon
Sands Motel San Simeon
Sands Sea Motel San Simeon
Sands Sea Motel
Sands Sea
Sands by The Sea Motel
Sands by The Sea San Simeon
Sands by The Sea Motel San Simeon

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at Sands by The Sea?

Sands by The Sea offers free cancellation on some room rates. If you'd like to learn more, look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

What's there to do close to Sands by The Sea?

Guests enjoy the motel's beach location in San Simeon based on their ratings, and it's within a 10-minute walk of San Simeon State Park and Cambria State Marine Park. You'll also find Moonstone Beach Park and Moonstone Beach within a short drive.

Is there parking available at Sands by The Sea?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the motel.

Is there a spa at Sands by The Sea?

There is a full-service spa available for guests to enjoy and services include deep-tissue massages.

Does Sands by The Sea feature a casino?

No, Sands by The Sea doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Sands by The Sea?

No, this motel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are 2 outdoor pools.

What do couples enjoy most about Sands by The Sea?

There are plenty of amenities for couples at this motel, including 2 outdoor pools, a beachfront restaurant, and a full-service spa.

Does Sands by The Sea have a hot tub?

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

Does Sands by The Sea feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Yes, Sands by The Sea serves a cooked-to-order breakfast for a surcharge each morning at Cavalier Coastal Kitchen.

Will Sands by The Sea allow pets to stay free of charge?

Yes, pets stay free at Sands by The Sea.

Are there connecting rooms at Sands by The Sea?

Yes, this motel has connecting guestrooms you can book for your group event or vacation.

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Sands by The Sea?

No, you won't find guestrooms with balconies at Sands by The Sea.

Sands by The Sea Reviews

Reviews

8.2

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 457 out of 1005 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 292 out of 1005 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 145 out of 1005 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 60 out of 1005 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 51 out of 1005 reviews

7.8/10

Cleanliness

8.4/10

Staff & service

8.0/10

Amenities

7.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

gregory

Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Dog friendly. Ocean view and access was awesome. Dogs are allowed on the beach.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Henny

We move to the other property the had bigger rooms
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elena

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Отель расположен в удивительном месте. Каждый раз, когда сюда приезжаем, отдыхаем душой, наслаждаемся красотой природы и мощностью океана. Восхитительные закаты и релакс открытых каминов , животный мир - все это дополняет привлекательность этого места. Близкое расположение с замком Херста и виноградники заставляют меня приезжать снова и снова.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laurel

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

San simeon by the sea

Amazing few days
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Lupe

Traveled with partner
Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It is a peaceful and family-friendly place.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

4/10 Poor

Christian

Traveled with group
Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Beach access was great... Huge hassle with my card tho. Got double charged causing an overdraft fee. Very stressful...
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nora

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved the beach access and the way they have it set up beautiful
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Hector

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cristina

Traveled with partner
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
The ocean is a few steps away …. Sunset was beautiful….
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Linda

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
We wanted a hotel close to Hearst Castle and this hotel was a great option. It was fairly priced compared to staying in Carmel which was more expensive. Not many dinner options around.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lupita, Fresno

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with group, Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I liked the firepits.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

4/10 Poor

James, Coalinga

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Rooms were dirty, furniture was old and missing parts of cover. Room smelled like water got in and mold. Tried to save money which backfired, ended up staying at The Cavalier which manages the Sands. Staff was awesome and accommodated us quick and easy.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Veronica

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

Love sands by the seas

Sands by the sea is always such a nice experience. The hotels are clean and comfortable. I love the walk down to the shoreline.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Maura

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lupe

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It is a quiet place and the staff is very friendly.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Lupe

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It is a quiet place and the staff is very friendly.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Viridiana

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rick

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Lacey

Disliked: Staff & service
Too many poor experiences to list.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

6/10 Okay

SYLVIA, Fresno

Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

james

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
this is a basic room. Wish the TV had a better line up and the toilet was a little taller. The room did just what we were after.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Mattress cover was torn
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gilbert

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Awesome
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025