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Rio Sands Hotel

2.0 star property
Motel in Aptos with 24-hour business centre and outdoor pool

Photo gallery for Rio Sands Hotel

Situated in a lush garden, this planter features a rustic design on a circular base surrounded by greenery and a unique metal fence.
Relax in style with plush seating, a fireplace, and a dining area.
Enjoy a comfortable stay with a flat-screen TV, refrigerator, and sliding glass door leading to an outdoor area.
Kitchen area with gas stove, microwave, refrigerator, sink, and TV.
Two large beds with white linens and blue accents, a flat-screen TV, and a wooden dresser.

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Business services

Explore the area

Map
116 Aptos Beach Drive, Aptos, CA, 95003
  • Rio Del Mar Beach
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Seacliff State Beach
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Capitola Beach
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪53 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed with Sofa bed, Kitchen

Room, 1 King Bed with Sofa bed, Kitchen | Living area

Room, 1 King Bed with Sofa bed, Kitchen

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(8 reviews)

Highlights

Furnished patio
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchen
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Separate bedroom
Sofa bed - double
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Family Suite

Family Suite

Family Suite

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(12 reviews)

Highlights

Patio
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchen
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Separate bedroom
Sofa bed
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 King Bed OR 1 Single Bunk Bed

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(44 reviews)

Highlights

Furnished balcony or patio
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Blackout curtains
Tempur-Pedic bed
Separate bedroom
  • 10 sq m
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchen

Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchen

Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchen

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(7 reviews)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchen
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Separate bedroom
Blackout curtains
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Junior Suite

1 bedroom, blackout curtains, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Junior Suite

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(18 reviews)

Highlights

Balcony
Separate sitting area
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchenette
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Sofa bed
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Suite, 1 Queen Bed with Sofa bed

Deluxe Suite, 1 Queen Bed with Sofa bed

Deluxe Suite, 1 Queen Bed with Sofa bed

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)

Highlights

Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Blackout curtains
Separate bedroom
Hairdryer
Private bathroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Sofa Bed

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

1 bedroom, blackout curtains, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

Highlights

Patio
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Blackout curtains
Separate bedroom
Hairdryer
  • 10 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed

Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed

Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(11 reviews)

Highlights

Patio
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Blackout curtains
Separate bedroom
Hairdryer
  • 10 sq m
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

Junior Room, Accessible

Highlights

Heating
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Separate bedroom
Blackout curtains
Hairdryer
Private bathroom
Shower/bath combination
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Apartment

Apartment

Apartment

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchen
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Blackout curtains
Separate bedroom
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 King Bed, 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Suite, 1 Bedroom

Deluxe Suite, 1 Bedroom

Deluxe Suite, 1 Bedroom

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)

Highlights

Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Blackout curtains
Separate bedroom
Hairdryer
Private bathroom
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 King Bed, 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Suite, Kitchen

Deluxe Suite, Kitchen | Living area

Deluxe Suite, Kitchen

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Kitchen
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Blackout curtains
Separate bedroom
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Double Sofa Beds

Room, Accessible

Highlights

Heating
Fridge
Flat-screen TV
Separate bedroom
Blackout curtains
Hairdryer
Private bathroom
Shower/bath combination
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

About the area

Aptos

Rio Sands Hotel places you steps from Rio Del Mar Beach and within a short 5-minute stroll of Seacliff State Beach. Highlights at this motel include an outdoor swimming pool, free self-parking and a 24-hour business centre. .This smoke-free motel offers free WiFi in public areas, a garden and a computer station. Other amenities include barbecues, a picnic area and luggage storage. .Attractions within a 15-minute drive of this Aptos motel include Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay.
View more Motels in AptosOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Rio Del Mar Beach - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Seacliff State Beach - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Seascape Golf Club - 3 min drive - 2.9 km
  • Capitola Beach - 5 min drive - 6.5 km
  • Capitola Wharf - 5 min drive - 6.5 km

Getting around

  • San Martin Caltrain Station - 45 min drive
  • San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.) - 49 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Marianne's Ice Cream - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪The Hideout - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Peet's Coffee and Tea - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Erik's DeliCafe - ‬18 min walk

About this property

Rio Sands Hotel

Motel in Aptos with 24-hour business centre and outdoor pool
A computer station is on site, and both WiFi and wired Internet are free in public spaces. Business amenities include a 24-hour business centre and a meeting room. An outdoor pool, barbecue grills, and a vending machine are also featured at Rio Sands Hotel. Self parking is free.

This Aptos motel is smoke free.

  • 50 guestrooms or units
  • 2 levels
  • 2 buildings
  • Poolside lounge chairs
  • Business centre (24 hours)
  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Garden
  • BBQ grill(s)
  • Outdoor picnic space
  • No smoking on site
  • 1 conference room
Rio Sands Hotel offers 50 accommodations with coffee/tea makers and a hairdryer. Fridges and microwaves are provided. Bathrooms include a combined bath/shower unit and complimentary toiletries.

This Aptos motel provides complimentary wired and wireless Internet access. Flat-screen televisions come with premium cable channels. Housekeeping is offered on request and an iron/ironing board can be requested.

Languages

English, Spanish

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  • Pet-friendly
  • Free WiFi
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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi and wired internet
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi and wired internet

Parking and transport

  • Free self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Things to do

  • Outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)

Business services

  • 24-hour business centre
  • Computer station
  • Meeting room

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Picnic area
  • Pool loungers

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 (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

More

  • 2 buildings
  • 2 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Smoke-free property

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV with premium cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board on request

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4 PM; check-in end time: anytime
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in fee: USD 33.66
Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out
Late check-out subject to availability
Late check-out fee: USD 32

Special check-in instructions

An adult aged 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
The front desk is open daily from 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • No pets allowed, but service animals are welcome

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 10.0 per night.

Payment types

Important information

Fees

Guests will be asked to pay the following charges at the property:

  • Deposit: USD 100.00 per stay

We've listed all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Early check-in fee: USD 33.66 (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out fee: USD 32 (subject to availability)
  • A kitchen/kitchenette is available for an additional fee
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 10.0 per night

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card 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
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector
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
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A credit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. 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. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guest room reservation. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover. Cash is not accepted. 
    For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector in all accommodation. Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

We should mention

  • Please note that this property can refuse certain bookings for the purpose of group events or parties, which include pre-wedding stag/bachelor and hen/bachelorette parties.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed to be in guestrooms.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Rio Sands
Rio Sands Aptos
Rio Sands Hotel
Rio Sands Hotel Aptos
Rio Sands Hotel Motel
Rio Sands Hotel Aptos
Rio Sands Hotel Motel Aptos

Frequently asked questions

What is the cancellation policy at Rio Sands Hotel?

Rio Sands Hotel offers free cancellation on select room rates. Check out the cancellation policy for more info.

Is parking available at Rio Sands Hotel?

Yep, Rio Sands Hotel has a free self car park.

Are there any beaches close to Rio Sands Hotel?

Yep, Rio Sands Hotel is a short 2-minute walk from Rio Del Mar Beach.

Does Rio Sands Hotel have a pool?

Rio Sands Hotel has an outdoor pool. Grab your bathers and lounge poolside while enjoying on a lounger.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Rio Sands Hotel?

No, Rio Sands Hotel does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Rio Sands Hotel?

Check-in begins at 4 PM. Check-out time is 11 AM.

Are pets allowed at Rio Sands Hotel?

No, only service animals are allowed.

Rio Sands Hotel Reviews

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 557 out of 1017 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 283 out of 1017 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 110 out of 1017 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 35 out of 1017 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 32 out of 1017 reviews

8.8/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Staff & service

8.2/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.4/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Victoria

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Travelled with family
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
I will definitely stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lee

Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

elizabeth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Nicole

Travelled with family
Liked: Staff & service

Walk to the beach

Great budget hotel to stay with kids
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

2/10 Terrible

Sara

So cold

If you like cold showers this is the place to go. Staff didn’t seem to care about the freezing showers either. Wouldn’t recommend or ever stay there again
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Karen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Phyllis

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ryan

Travelled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Family friendly hotel that is close to the beach. Kids also loved the breakfast.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Natalie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
It’s a really nice place to stay. Close to the beach. The beds are wonderful and comfortable. Beautiful pool and hot tub also.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

David

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Xeniya

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sara

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Greg

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rachelle

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laurie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff here is top notch! Rooms are clean! It’s not easy to get a room this clean (I know how hard it is). Everyone here pays attention to intricacies of the smooth flow of a lot of activities that are constantly changing. Each party of guests is treated as if they are the only group here. No job is easy. Everyone is super pleasant and helpful. I’m able to get good rest despite my less expensive room location. That’s a reflection of the amazing staff! Respectful fellow guests also 👍 I’ll stay here again :)
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gerald

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Property was nice and clean, right by the beach. Breakfast area was roomy, clean, staffed. Tip top!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marcos, Grover Beach

Business traveller
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice clean affordable stay located yards from the beach.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

David, Chowchilla

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
They have a great hot tub and pool! Beach is close, awesome coffeehouse close, nice restaurant is close. This is a nice getaway place!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Richard

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rimma

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Close to the beach
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Ruben

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mike

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

RM, Pleasant Hill

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The property was well maintained. One thing was strange. They offer a kitchen with appliances but there were only two coffee mugs present. Not a single dish, glass, fork, knife, pot or pan. Seemed odd to say the least. We worked with our own paper plates, cutlery and food that we brought from home. Working the microwave with any plates was a little funny.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025