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From69US$ /night
Check-in
14Feb2026Select date
Check-out
15Feb2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Property overview

9355 Hearst Drive, San Simeon, California, United States, 93452
-
Close to the beach
Very good
7.7
7.9
/10
3.3
/5

Rooms in San Simeon

Sands by the Sea features 33 guest rooms with a choice of one king or two queen beds. Rooms include free WiFi, a flat-screen TV with premium channels, a mini-refrigerator, and a microwave. Connecting rooms are available. Some rooms offer ceiling fans. Amenities include AM/FM alarm clock, free toiletries, ironing facilities, and carpeted floors. Some hearing and mobility accessible rooms are available.

Dining at Cavalier Kitchen

The Cavalier Coastal Kitchen is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and features traditional American favorites and Hearst Ranch Beef. It features views of the Pacific Ocean. Guests can enjoy a glass of wine, beer, or cocktail at the bar.

Activities and Features

Sands by the Sea provides access to three oceanfront fire pits. Guests can view whales from the property as Sands by the Sea is a recognized viewing site of The Whale Trail. Guests can also explore the nearby beaches, nature trails, and landmarks. There is a fitness center on the property.

Location and Access

Located off the Pacific Coast Highway, Sands by the Sea is near the Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay (0.5 km), Hearst Castle (3 miles), and the Elephant Seal Rookery (10-minute drive). The San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport is 75 km away. Nearby landmarks include Vista Point (5 km), Boucher trail (0.3 km), San Simeon Bay (5 km), Leffingwell Landing (4 km), Leffingwell Landing State Park (4 km), Oak Knoll Creek Beach (0.5 km), and San Carpoforo Creek and Beach (0.3 km).

Hotel Services

Sands by the Sea features a 24-hour front desk and offers free parking. Connecting rooms and family units are available. The hotel is pet-friendly and offers complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby. Room service is available. The hotel also provides ice and vending machines.

“Sands By The Sea Motel has an enviable location for beach walks and exploring San Simeon's dining scene. I appreciate the fire pits for evening gatherings. While some aspects require updates, the location remains a primary draw.”
Hotel logo
Michael TurnerEditor, UsCalifornia
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Choose your preferred room

The property features double rooms, family rooms, and suites, often including breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers
Queen Room Two Queen Beds
2 persons
270 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Coffee machine
King Room
2 persons
270 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine

Calendar of room availability and rates

See current availability and pricing for your dates

Facilities

Amenities are designed to ensure comfort and memorable stays

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

The dining option at Sands By The Sea Motel revolves around the inviting Cavalier Coastal Kitchen, where guests can indulge in traditional American favorites while soaking in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. This family-friendly restaurant ensures a delightful experience for all ages, offering meals throughout the day in a relaxed coastal setting.

Cavalier Coastal Kitchen

American
Ambiance
Casual setting with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for families
Key Offerings
Traditional American favorites available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A well-stocked bar offers a selection of wines, beers, and crafted cocktails to enhance the dining experience.
Reservation
Not needed
Open daily from 07:00 AM to 09:00 PM.

Sands By The Sea Motel 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
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 Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay
8 minutes' walk
Interpretive exhibits focused on marine life provide a great learning opportunity. Admission is free.
Friends Of The Elephant Seal Gift Shop
8 minutes' walk
Unique souvenirs and educational information about elephant seals. A must-visit for animal lovers.
Jade Cove
8 minutes' walk
Secluded beach known for beautiful jade stones and stunning coastal views. Ideal for nature enthusiasts.
San Simeon State Beach
8 minutes' walk
Scenic beach perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, and enjoying the coastal wildlife.
Hiking at Boucher Trail
2 minutes' walk
Easy access to a scenic hiking trail with stunning cliff views and native flora. Perfect for all skill levels.
Relaxation at San Carpoforo Creek and Beach
2 minutes' walk
Quiet beach area ideal for relaxation and picnics. Easily accessible and great for families.
Carriage Restaurant
9 minutes' walk
Cozy atmosphere featuring Californian cuisine. Known for fresh seafood and local wines. Reservations recommended.
Manta Rey Restaurant
9 minutes' walk
Casual dining with ocean views offering a variety of dishes, including vegetarian options.
San Simeon Pier
50 minutes' walk
Relaxed spot for fishing, sunset views, and enjoying local events. Family-friendly with open access.
Local transportation
City Centre
San Simeon9 min  ·  3.4 mi
Airports
San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP)107 min  ·  44.0 mi
Bus
Bus stop3 min  ·  700 ft
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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 is the check-in and check-out policy at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Check-in is from 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
What amenities are available at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Amenities include free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, a business center, and 24-hour front desk service.
How far is Sands By The Sea Motel from Hearst Castle?
The motel is located 5 km from Hearst Castle.
What types of room amenities are provided at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Rooms include a flat-screen TV, microwave, refrigerator, coffee machine, and free Wi-Fi.
Is there parking available at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Free on-site public parking is available without reservation.
What are the nearby attractions to Sands By The Sea Motel?
Nearby attractions include San Simeon State Park (3 km) and W R Hearst Memorial State Beach (approximately 7 minutes' drive).
Are there dining options near Sands By The Sea Motel?
Cavalier Restaurant, featuring ocean views, is approximately a 5-minute walk from the motel.
What recreational activities can guests enjoy at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Activities include cycling, hiking, and beach access.
Does Sands By The Sea Motel have any swimming pools?
The property features an outdoor swimming pool that is heated and open year-round.
What views are available from the accommodations at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Some rooms offer views of the Pacific Ocean.
How far is Sands By The Sea Motel from San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport?
The motel is 75 km from San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport.
What types of payment does Sands By The Sea Motel accept?
Accepted payment methods include American Express, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover.

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