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Sands by the Sea Motel

2.5 star property
Travelers soak up sun on loungers with ocean views while enjoying practical amenities like an ATM and grocery store at this oceanfront retreat

Choose dates to view prices

Sands by the Sea Motel sits right by the ocean offering a laid-back atmosphere. Guests connect with in-room WiFi, pick up essentials at the on-site grocery store, grab quick snacks from the vending machine, and relax at the seasonal outdoor pool.

Reviews

8.2 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Housekeeping

Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 13 of 13 rooms

View all photos for King Bed with Pull Out Twin Sofa

King Bed with Pull Out Twin Sofa | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

King Bed with Pull Out Twin Sofa

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(9 reviews)

Highlights

Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
TV
Hairdryer
  • 23 sq m
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Two Double Beds with Pull Out Twin Sofa

Two Double Beds with Pull Out Twin Sofa | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

Two Double Beds with Pull Out Twin Sofa

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(3 reviews)

Highlights

Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
TV
Hairdryer
  • 23 sq m
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Double Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for The Sea Glass Suite

The Sea Glass Suite | Living area | 32-inch TV with cable channels, DVD player

The Sea Glass Suite

Highlights

Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchenette
Fridge
TV
  • 37 sq m
  • Sleeps 7
  • 1 King Bed, 2 Single Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for One Bedroom Suite- 39

One Bedroom Suite- 39 | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

One Bedroom Suite- 39

Highlights

Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchenette
Fridge
TV
  • 46 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Double Beds and 1 Single Bed

View all photos for One Bedroom Suite- 38

One Bedroom Suite- 38 | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

One Bedroom Suite- 38

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)

Highlights

Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchenette
Fridge
TV
  • 46 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 King Bed and 2 Single Beds

View all photos for Suite

Suite | Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

Suite

Highlights

Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchenette
Fridge
TV
  • 37 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed, 1 Single Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Suite

Suite | Room amenity

Suite

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)

Highlights

Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
TV
Hairdryer
  • 37 sq m
  • Sleeps 9
  • 1 King Bed, 2 Double Beds and 1 Single Sofa Bed

View all photos for The Sandpiper Suite

The Sandpiper Suite | Living area | 32-inch TV with cable channels, DVD player

The Sandpiper Suite

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)

Highlights

Balcony
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchen
Fridge
  • 37 sq m
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Two Bedroom Cottage

32-inch TV with cable channels, DVD player

Two Bedroom Cottage

Highlights

Balcony
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchen
Fridge
  • 74 sq m
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 Queen Bed and 3 Single Beds

View all photos for The Seashell Suite

The Seashell Suite | Living room | 32-inch TV with cable channels, DVD player

The Seashell Suite

Highlights

Balcony
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchen
Fridge
  • 37 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for The Starfish Suite

The Starfish Suite | Living area | 32-inch TV with cable channels, DVD player

The Starfish Suite

Highlights

Balcony
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchen
Fridge
  • 37 sq m
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 King Bed and 2 Single Beds

View all photos for Three Bedroom Cottage

32-inch TV with cable channels, DVD player

Three Bedroom Cottage

Highlights

Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchen
Fridge
TV
  • 102 sq m
  • 3 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 9
  • 1 King Bed, 4 Single Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Classic Double Room, 2 Double Beds

Individually decorated, individually furnished, iron/ironing board

Classic Double Room, 2 Double Beds

7.8 out of 10
Good
(6 reviews)

Highlights

Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Fridge
TV
Hairdryer
Private bathroom
  • 23 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds
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About the area

Located in York Beach, Sands by the Sea Motel is near the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Short Sands Beach and Long Sands Beach. York's Wild Kingdom and Center For Wildlife are also worth visiting. Visit our York Beach travel guide
View more Motels in York Beach
Map
15 Ocean Ave., York Beach, ME, 03909

What's nearby

  • Short Sands Beach
    Short Sands Beach
    2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Eye of the beholder. He was looking at me when I took the picture. #vacation #roadtrip #nature #outdoor #NikonD3100 #macrophotography #macrolens
    York's Wild Kingdom
    3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Long Sands Beach featuring general coastal views and a coastal town as well as a family
    Long Sands Beach
    10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Considered to be the "most photographed" lighthouse, this 41-foot conical tower sits on the summit of Cape Neddick Bubble, a small offshore rocky islet, looking proudly over the Atlantic. During the Xmas holidays is beautifully decored and its sight is even more impressive. There is a free parking lot at Sohier Park, just in front of the island, but be aware, the weather is bitter cold. #MyBackyard
    Nubble Lighthouse
    3 min drive - 1.8 km
  • Ogunquit Beach which includes a beach and general coastal views as well as a large group of people
    Ogunquit Beach
    13 min drive - 12.1 km

Getting around

  • Wells Regional Transportation Center
    21 min drive
  • Portland, ME (PWM-Portland Intl. Jetport)
    48 min drive

Restaurants

  • Anthony's Food Shop
    5 min drive
  • Cumberland Farms
    7 min drive
  • Elks Lodge 2778
    7 min drive
  • Greenleaves
    6 min drive
  • York Beach Beer Company
    3 min walk

About this property

Sands by the Sea Motel

Motel near Short Sands Beach
Close to Long Sands Beach, Sands by the Sea Motel provides amenities such as a corner/local shop. Guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.
You'll also enjoy the following perks during your stay:
  • A seasonal outdoor pool, along with sunloungers and pool umbrellas
  • Free self-parking
  • ATM/banking services, smoke-free property and a vending machine
Room features
All 60 individually furnished rooms boast comforts such as air conditioning, in addition to amenities such as free WiFi.
Other amenities include:
  • Bathrooms with showers and hairdryers
  • 32-inch TVs with cable channels and DVD players
  • Fridges, microwaves and heating

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Free self parking on site
  • Limited on-site self parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Things to do

  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • DVD player
  • Grocery/convenience store
  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • ATM
  • Grocery/convenience store
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Outdoors

  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No lift
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking

More

  • Smoke-free property

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 32-inch TV with cable channels
  • DVD player

Food and drink

  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: 10:00 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open Sunday - Thursday (9:00 AM - 10:00 PM) and Friday - Saturday (9:00 AM - 11:00 PM)
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
If you are planning to arrive after 10:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Renovations and closures

The property is closed between 25 October and 22 April.

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

Pets not allowed (service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees)

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 20.0 per day.

Payment types at the property

Important information

Optional extras

  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 20.0 per day

The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may 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, debit card or cash deposit 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
Safety features at this property include a smoke detector and outdoor lighting
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
The seasonal pool will be open from April to October
Children under 12 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool without adult supervision

Property is also known as

Sands Sea Motel York Beach
Sands Sea Motel York
Sands Sea York
Sands Sea Motel
Sands Sea York Beach
Sands Sea
Sands by the Sea Motel Motel
Sands by the Sea Motel York Beach
Sands by the Sea Motel Motel York Beach

Frequently asked questions

Does Sands by the Sea Motel have a pool?

Yes, this property has a seasonal outdoor pool. The swimming pool is closed seasonally each year from October 25 until April 22.

Is Sands by the Sea Motel pet-friendly?

No, only service animals are welcome at the property.

How much is parking at Sands by the Sea Motel?

Self-parking is free at this property.

What time is check-in at Sands by the Sea Motel?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: 10:00 PM. Late check-in is available during limited hours.

What time is check-out at Sands by the Sea Motel?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Sands by the Sea Motel located?

Situated in York Beach, this beach motel is within a 15-minute walk of Short Sands Beach and Long Sands Beach. York's Wild Kingdom and Nubble Lighthouse are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Can I cancel my reservation for free and receive a full refund?

Yes, this property offers free cancellation on selected room rates because flexibility matters! Please refer to the property cancellation policy on our site for more details about any exclusions or requirements.

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Reviews

Sands by the Sea Motel Reviews

8.2

Very good

8.2

Cleanliness

9.2

Location

8.8

Staff & service

7.6

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 131 out of 322 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 115 out of 322 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 48 out of 322 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 21 out of 322 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 7 out of 322 reviews

Reviews

8/10 Good

Don

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
Room was very clean but motel is dated. Staff were extremely helpful & accommodating. Very beautiful area & the pool area & beach looked fantastic. Definitely would stay there again.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Scott

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Perfect location. Jen was great she circled places on the map for us to check out and gave us recommendations for places to eat! Will definitely be back, thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

James

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great spot, close to the beach and restaurants.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ruth Ann

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a great stay at the Sands. Pool was great! Accommodations were also. Could not beat the location. Will definitely go back again.Staff was friendly and attentive.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Jodi

The location is good. The place is just very dated. Our room was very small and the beds could use new mattresses.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alan

Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Great, convenient location! Beautiful views and heated pool.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Colleen

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Comfortable beds. Extremely clean. Lovely pool
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rachel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Older motel but well maintained and clean! Excellent location across from Short Sands Beach!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Todd

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great Motel right next to Short Sands. 9 iron to great restaurants and shops.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Susan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location good shopping restaurants nice beach across street nice pool friendly accommodating check in Very old & dated but good price comfy bed
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mollie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
This hotel was good for a 1 night stay. The staff were very friendly and accommodating. It is an old place, but it was clean. I would stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Hilary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location in downtown York. Parking to most everything.onsite and you can walk
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Staff are friendly and full of information 🙃. Room is ok. Ac only goes to 66 so felt very warm still. Stuffy in room. Room was clean . Ned’s a little softer than we are use to but comfortable . We slept good. It does have a rug . Which at the beach keeps all the sands in . Great location close to everything you can walk to . We would come back here again
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Joan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Front desk staff so friendly!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Lady at checkin was extremely nice. It was clean and bed was good.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
People really nice
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Jamie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
This property is so convenient if you want to be close to the beach. Staff was super friendly. Rooms are a bit small and mattresses could be updated. Other than that, I’d definitely stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

John

Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Easy access to the beach and heated pool. The room was outdated with dark carpeting, too soft unsupportive mattress and worn toilet seat.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Wanda

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
All was ok. Staff was responsive to any requests or issues. The mattress was very tired and needed replacing.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

Nicole

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a great stay and would definitely stay again. The property overall is very clean and the location is excellent. The only thing that could be improved is the water pressure in the bathroom sink. It was terrible. However, the shower pressure was great. The beds could use some new mattresses also. Overall I highly recommend. Very family oriented also.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

6/10 Okay

Sandra

Disliked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The location is very convenient and is walkable to all shops and beach. The room had plastic cups for use and one was used without wrapping. The TV is very small and furnishings were okay. The motel was loud until around 1:30 am. The price is not worth the stay.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

christiana

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
Definitely outdated, but the location cannot be beat. Super quick walk to Short Sands Beach and local restaurants and shops. Room was tired, no bathroom ventilation, missing outlet covers, very old a/c heat unit. Fountain in the pool was broken, so, in its place, there is an arcing pvc pipe throwing a hard spray of water into the pool. Small pool was murky for all three days we were there, so we didn't go in it. No coffee in the room or lobby. Narrow stairs to access second level (no elevator). It was a comfortable room but in definite need of updating. Not sure I'll stay here again, especially for what I paid.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Todd

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff. Beautiful pool, and close to everything.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Tracy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kyla

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great stay!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024