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From69US$ /night
Check-in
13Dec2025Select date
Check-out
14Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

9355 Hearst Drive, San Simeon, California, United States, 93452
-
Close to the beach
Perfect
7.6
7.9
/10
3.3
/5

Location

Sands by the Sea Motel is located along Highway 1, offering easy access to California's Central Coast. Positioned just minutes from Hearst Castle and Cambria, it allows guests to explore iconic attractions. The motel is situated atop a seaside bluff with direct beach access and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Rooms

The motel offers 33 well-appointed guest rooms, featuring one king or two queen beds. Accommodations include mini-refrigerators, microwaves, and flat-screen TVs with premium channels. Connecting rooms are available, accommodating families or groups traveling together.

Dining

Cavalier Coastal Kitchen, located steps away from the motel, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean while indulging in traditional American favorites. The restaurant features Hearst Ranch Beef and locally caught seafood.

Pet-Friendly Amenities

Sands by the Sea welcomes pets, ensuring that four-legged family members enjoy vacation too. The expansive seaside bluff offers ample space for pets to run and play. This pet-friendly policy eliminates concerns about kennel services or dog sitters during your stay.

Attractions

Guests are within a close distance to Hearst Castle, offering daily tours of the historic site. The nearby Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery provides a unique opportunity to view migrating elephant seals. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning beaches and nature trails surrounding the motel.

Highlights

Location: Scenic seaside bluff overlooking the ocean

Dining: Cavalier Coastal Kitchen open for breakfast, lunch & dinner

Rooms: 33 well-appointed guest rooms with king and queen beds

Pet-Friendly: Welcomes dogs with outdoor space for play

“The proximity to the beach and fire pits create an inviting atmosphere. It's a no-frills spot, more about location and access than luxury, and recent acquisition might mean some changes are underway, requiring guests to check in at the sister property next door. For families or those prioritizing a beachfront experience over high-end amenities, this could be a solid choice.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
Queen Room Two Queen Beds
2 persons
25 m² 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Coffee machine
King Room
2 persons
25 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine

Room rates & availability calendar

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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • 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

  • Wi-Fi in rooms
  • 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, guests can indulge in the delightful offerings at Cavalier Coastal Kitchen, a charming restaurant perfectly situated just steps from the beach. With stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, this family-friendly spot serves up heartfelt American favorites in a relaxed atmosphere, inviting travelers to relish every meal of the day.

Cavalier Coastal Kitchen

American
Ambiance
Casual dining with panoramic ocean views, perfect for families.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a variety of traditional American dishes, complemented by a selection of wines, beers, and cocktails. The inviting bar area is ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Reservation
Not needed
Open daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

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
150 m
18862-18610 CA-1
San Carpoforo Creek and Beach
150 m
Restaurants
Carriage Restaurant
700 m
9290 Castillo Dr
Manta Rey Restaurant
740 m
9240 Castillo Dr
San Simeon Liquor
370 m
431 Pico Ave
Explore San Simeon
Local Attractions, Dining, and Activities
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay
Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay
8 minutes' walk
Sea life exhibits and educational programs await at this center. Ideal for families and those keen on marine conservation.
Friends Of The Elephant Seal Gift Shop
8 minutes' walk
Close to the elephant seal viewing areas, this shop offers unique souvenirs supporting wildlife conservation efforts.
Jade Cove
Jade Cove
8 minutes' walk
Famous for its jade stones, this cove provides stunning coastal views and opportunities for tide pooling.
San Simeon State Park
San Simeon State Park
25 minutes' walk
A large scenic park featuring picnic areas and hiking trails, great for nature walks and family picnics.
Biking at San Simeon State Park
25 minutes' walk
Biking trails available for exploring lush park scenery. Rentals are nearby, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Kayaking in San Simeon Bay
8 minutes' walk
Kayak rentals available for exploring the serene waters. Excellent for adventure seekers wanting to connect with nature.
Beach Relaxation at San Simeon Beach
8 minutes' walk
A tranquil spot for sunbathing and beachcombing. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway by the ocean.
Carriage Restaurant
Carriage Restaurant
9 minutes' walk
Charming décor and seafood specialties make this spot a favorite. Offering fresh, local ingredients with a great ambiance.
Manta Rey Restaurant
Manta Rey Restaurant
9 minutes' walk
Homey vibe with a diverse menu featuring local flavors. A popular choice for casual dining and fresh seafood dishes.
San Simeon Liquor
San Simeon Liquor
5 minutes' walk
Offers deli-style sandwiches and snacks. A convenient option for a quick meal or a relaxing picnic by the beach.
San Simeon Pier
50 minutes' walk
A picturesque pier offering ocean views and a chance to see local fishermen. Perfect for a scenic evening stroll.
Outdoor Movie Nights
25 minutes' walk
Seasonal outdoor movie events are hosted at local parks. Ideal for families and couples seeking evening activities.
Getting around town
City Centre
San Simeon9 min  ·  5.4 km
Airports
San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP)107 min  ·  70.8 km
Bus
Bus stop3 min  ·  200 m
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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
FAQs
About Sands By The Sea Motel
What are the check-in and check-out times at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
What attractions are close to Sands By The Sea Motel?
Nearby attractions include Hearst Castle (5 km) and San Simeon State Park (3 km).
Is there parking available at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Free public parking is available on-site without reservation required.
What amenities are offered in the rooms at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a microwave, a refrigerator, and a coffee machine.
What dining options are available near Sands By The Sea Motel?
The Cavalier Restaurant is approximately a 5-minute walk away, and El Chorlito Mexican Restaurant is 0.5 km away.
Does Sands By The Sea Motel have a swimming pool?
The hotel features both outdoor and indoor swimming pools.
What recreational activities are available at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Guests can enjoy beach access, cycling, and hiking.
Is there a business center at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Yes, a business center is available for corporate travelers.
What nearby beaches can guests access from Sands By The Sea Motel?
Guests can visit W R Hearst Memorial State Beach, which is a 7-minute drive away.

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