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From69US$ /night
Check-in
31Dec2025Select date
Check-out
01Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

9355 Hearst Drive, San Simeon, California, United States, 93452
-
Near Arroyo del padre juan beach
Very good
7.6
7.9
/10
3.3
/5

Sands By The Sea Motel - A 2-star oceanfront property with 33 rooms, direct beach access, and whale watching opportunities

Located on a scenic seaside bluff near Hearst Castle, Sands By The Sea features 33 well-appointed rooms equipped with free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and microwaves. This San Simeon hotel provides direct beach access and serves as a recognized viewing site on The Whale Trail for observing California Gray, Humpback, and Blue whales during migration seasons. The Cavalier Restaurant, situated steps away, offers panoramic Pacific Ocean views and traditional American cuisine featuring Hearst Ranch beef and local seafood. Three oceanfront fire pits provide outdoor gathering spaces for guests. The property includes connecting rooms and ADA-accessible accommodations with mobility and hearing features. Pet-friendly rooms are available for travelers with four-legged companions. The motel sits 3 miles from Hearst Castle and 0.5 miles from the Coastal Discovery Center, while the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery lies 10 minutes north.

Pros

Recognized whale watching site on The Whale Trail

Three oceanfront fire pits for guest gatherings

Pet-friendly accommodations available

Walking distance to Friends of the Elephant Seal Gift Shop

Cons

46.5 miles from San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport

Limited on-site recreational facilities

“Sands By The Sea Motel provides a relaxed beachfront atmosphere enhanced by fire pits and immediate beach access. It stands out for its proximity to San Simeon attractions, especially Hearst Castle, while families will appreciate the games and pools. The older construction presents thin walls and, in some rooms, older heating systems.”
Hotel logo
Isabella MooreSenior Editorial Director at Petfriendlyhotels
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Select your room type

Cozy rooms, spacious suites, and family-friendly homes, all with flexible cancellation policies & special 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

Price and room availability calendar

Check availability and rates for your selected dates!

Facilities

Enjoy premium amenities for a relaxing stay with your pet

General

  • No smoking on site
  • 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

  • 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, onsite dining features a delightful experience at Cavalier Coastal Kitchen, where traditional American comfort food meets stunning ocean views. Families can enjoy meals together in a laid-back atmosphere while sipping on refreshing drinks from the bar.

Cavalier Coastal Kitchen

American
Ambiance
Casual dining with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, ideal for families.
Key Offerings
A selection of traditional American favorites served at reasonable prices, complemented by options for wine, beer, and cocktails at the bar.
Reservation
Not needed.
Open daily from 07:00 - 21:00 for 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 Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay
Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay
8 minutes' walk
Educational exhibits on marine life and local history, with stunning bay views and friendly staff, perfect for families.
Friends Of The Elephant Seal Gift Shop
8 minutes' walk
Wildlife viewing and educational resources about elephant seals, featuring unique gifts and souvenirs for all ages.
San Simeon State Park
San Simeon State Park
25 minutes' walk
Beautiful hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic coastal views, ideal for nature enthusiasts and outdoor fun.
San Simeon State Beach
6 minutes' walk
A sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and picnics, with opportunities for beachcombing and wildlife spotting.
Hiking at Boucher Trail
2 minutes' walk
A scenic trail offering breathtaking coastal views, suitable for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
Kayaking in San Carpoforo Creek
2 minutes' walk
Rent kayaks for a thrilling paddle through scenic waterways. Rentals available nearby, ensuring an adventurous day.
Relaxation at San Simeon State Park
25 minutes' walk
A fantastic spot for a peaceful picnic, offering serene environments and scenic views for ultimate relaxation.
San Simeon Liquor
San Simeon Liquor
5 minutes' walk
Casual spot offering snacks and drinks, perfect for a quick bite before enjoying a day out or relaxing at the beach.
Manta Rey Restaurant
Manta Rey Restaurant
9 minutes' walk
Cozy atmosphere with seafood specialties, known for its clam chowder and beautiful views of the coast.
Carriage Restaurant
Carriage Restaurant
9 minutes' walk
Family-friendly diner offering hearty breakfasts and homestyle meals using local ingredients. Reservations recommended.
San Simeon Pier
50 minutes' walk
Scenic pier perfect for strolls and fishing, with picturesque views ideal for a relaxing evening out.
Nitt Witt Ridge
Nitt Witt Ridge
8 minutes' drive
Unique historical site featuring a quirky house built from salvaged materials, offering guided tours for history buffs.
Getting around
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 distance is Sands By The Sea Motel from Hearst Castle?
The motel is located 5 km from Hearst Castle.
What amenities are available in the guest rooms at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, a microwave, and a coffee machine.
What recreational activities can guests enjoy at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Guests can engage in activities such as hiking, cycling, and beach access.
Is there on-site parking available at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Public parking is available on-site free of charge, and no reservation is needed.
What nearby restaurants can guests find close to Sands By The Sea Motel?
Nearby dining options include El Chorlito Mexican Restaurant, located 0.5 km away.
Does Sands By The Sea Motel have outdoor swimming pools?
The motel features both an outdoor swimming pool and access to the indoor pool at Cavalier Oceanfront Resort.
Does Sands By The Sea Motel offer any business services?
A business center is provided for guests needing business services.
What attractions are within a short drive from Sands By The Sea Motel?
San Simeon State Park is 3 km away, and W R Hearst Memorial State Beach is a 7-minute drive.
Is there a fitness facility at Sands By The Sea Motel?
The motel includes a fitness room for guests to utilize.

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Check-in
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Check-out
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