"The location is superb - right on the beach to watch magnificent sunsets with lovely outdoor areas with seating, games & fire pits."
Maureen F from United Kingdom
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"Rooms were great, as is the location , and amenities , such as fire pits , chess board , hot tub."
Gary from United States
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"Beautiful setting, beautiful sea view. Really enjoyed the fire pits, heated outdoor pool & hot tub and telescopes."
Anonymous
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Affordable Oceanfront Motel with Scenic Views in San Simeon
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
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
270 sq. feet
2 Queen Size Beds
Bathtub
Heating
room details
King Room
2 persons
270 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Heating
Coffee machine
room details
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
Facilities: Very good
7.7/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free 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
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.
Sands By The Sea Motel Location
9355 Hearst Drive, San Simeon, 93452,
Map view
City landmarks
Landmark
Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay
2100 ft
Landmark
Friends Of The Elephant Seal Gift Shop
2100 ft
Landmark
Jade Cove
2100 ft
Landmark
Oak Knoll Creek Beach
2100 ft
Landmark
San Simeon State Park
1.5 mi
Park
Hearst San Simeon State Park
2.2 mi
Landmark
Cambria State Marine Conservation Area
1.9 mi
Beach
Leffingwell Landing
2.6 mi
Park
Leffingwell Landing State Park
2.4 mi
Landmark
San Simeon Bay
3.1 mi
Landmark
Vista Point
3.2 mi
Landmark
San Simeon Pier
3.1 mi
Landmark
Nitt Witt Ridge
4.2 mi
Gallery
Artifacts Gallery
4.1 mi
Landmark
Riccardo Spizzamiglio Artist Studio Gallery
4.2 mi
Landmark
Cambria Jailhouse
4.3 mi
Nearby
Half Mile North of the Piedras Blancas Light Station.
Boucher trail
500 ft
18862-18610 CA-1
San Carpoforo Creek and Beach
500 ft
Restaurants
Carriage Restaurant
2300 ft
9290 Castillo Dr
Manta Rey Restaurant
2500 ft
9240 Castillo Dr
San Simeon Liquor
1300 ft
431 Pico Ave
Explore San Simeon
Local Attractions, Dining, and Activities
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
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
8 minutes' walk
Famous for its jade stones, this cove provides stunning coastal views and opportunities for tide pooling.
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
9 minutes' walk
Charming décor and seafood specialties make this spot a favorite. Offering fresh, local ingredients with a great ambiance.
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
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 Simeon 9 min · 3.4 mi
Airports
San Luis Obispo County Regional (SBP) 107 min · 44.0 mi
Bus
Bus stop 3 min · 700 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-22:00
Check-out
until 11 am
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
33
Reviews and Ratings
What past guests shared about their stay
Cleanliness
8.0/10
Comfort
8.0/10
Facilities
7.7/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.0/10
Location
9.1/10
Staff
8.9/10
Value for money
8.1/10
Guest reviews
based on 593 reviews
7.8/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.