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Rio Sands Hotel

2.0 star property
Motel near Capitola Beach in Aptos

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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.
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.
Relax in style with plush seating, a fireplace, and a dining area.

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

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 | Flat-screen TV

Room, 1 King Bed with Sofa bed, Kitchen

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(8 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Family Suite

Family Suite | 1 bedroom, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Family Suite

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(12 reviews)
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 King Bed OR 1 Twin Bunk Bed

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed | 1 bedroom, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(43 reviews)
  • 108 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchen

Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchen | 1 bedroom, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Room, 1 King Bed, Kitchen

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(7 reviews)
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Junior Suite

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

Junior Suite

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(17 reviews)
  • 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 | 1 bedroom, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Deluxe Suite, 1 Queen Bed with Sofa bed

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Sofa Bed

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

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

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

  • 108 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed

Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed | 1 bedroom, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(11 reviews)
  • 108 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

Junior Room, Accessible

  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Kitchen Suite, 2 Rooms, King Bed, Queen and Sofa Bed

Kitchen Suite, 2 Rooms, King Bed, Queen and Sofa Bed | 1 bedroom, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Kitchen Suite, 2 Rooms, King Bed, Queen and Sofa Bed

  • 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 | 1 bedroom, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Deluxe Suite, 1 Bedroom

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 King Bed, 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for kitchen suite, Queen bed, Queen sofa bed, twin sofa bed

kitchen suite, Queen bed, Queen sofa bed, twin sofa bed | Living area | Flat-screen TV

kitchen suite, Queen bed, Queen sofa bed, twin sofa bed

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Double Sofa Beds

Room, Accessible

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

About the neighborhood

Aptos

Oceanside stay.Within a 5-minute walk of the motel, you'll find Rio Del Mar Beach and Seacliff State Beach. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park and Aptos History Museum are also within 2 miles (3 km).
View more Motels in AptosOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Rio Del Mar Beach - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Seacliff State Beach - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Seascape Golf Club - 3 min drive - 1.8 miles
  • Capitola Beach - 5 min drive - 4.0 miles
  • Capitola Wharf - 5 min drive - 4.0 miles

Getting around

  • San Martin Caltrain Station - 45 min drive
  • Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC) - 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 near Capitola Beach in Aptos
A computer station is on site, and both WiFi and wired Internet are free in public spaces. Business amenities include a 24-hour business center 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 center (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 hair dryers. Refrigerators and microwaves are provided. Bathrooms include shower/tub combinations 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 irons/ironing boards can be requested.

Languages

English, Spanish

Similar properties

Escape to a serene oasis with a tranquil pond, lush greenery, and a charming wooden bridge.

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

  • Pool
  • Hot Tub
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
4.2 out of 5, Very Good, 1,109 reviews
$177 nightly
The price is $203
Aug 12 - Aug 13
Total includes taxes and fees
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Property amenities

Family friendly

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

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

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

Things to do

  • Outdoor pool

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV with premium cable channels

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

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

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 available

Check-out

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

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 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.

Property 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, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm 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, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm 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 guestroom 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 each accommodation. Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Guests should contact this hotel in advance to request a dishware/utensils kit (surcharge applies).

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

How close is Rio Sands Hotel to the airport?

Rio Sands Hotel is 8.7 mi (18-min drive) away from the Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Rio Sands Hotel?

As of Jul 12, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Rio Sands Hotel on Jul 20, 2025 start from $275.0, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does Rio Sands Hotel have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at Rio Sands Hotel.

How close is Rio Sands Hotel to the beach?

This motel is a short 2-minute walk from Rio Del Mar Beach and 3-minute walk from Seacliff State Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Rio Sands Hotel offer free breakfast?

Rio Sands Hotel does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Rio Sands Hotel?

No, there is no casino at this motel.

What time is check-in at Rio Sands Hotel?

Check-in start time: 4 PM; Check-in end time: anytime. Early check-in costs USD 33.66 (subject to availability).

Is there free parking at Rio Sands Hotel?

This motel offers free self parking.

Does Rio Sands Hotel have a pool?

Rio Sands Hotel features an outdoor pool.

Does Rio Sands Hotel have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this motel.

How close is Rio Sands Hotel to downtown Aptos?

Rio Sands Hotel is 1.3 mi away from Rio del Mar.

Rio Sands Hotel Reviews

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 545 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 282 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 110 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 34 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 32 out of 1003 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

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gilder

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was a wonderful place,\. I will stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 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 traveler
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

Traveled 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

Traveled 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

Traveled 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

10/10 Excellent

andrew

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Best hotel on our trip a short walk to the beach as well
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Robert

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

10/10 Excellent

Trinity

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Clean and close to beach

Only 1 block from beach. Super clean and quiet
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dennis

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

6/10 Okay

Lori

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
The location is wonderful with it being 2 blocks from the beach. Room #115 needs floors to be replaced.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Robert

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Recommended but You Should Know a Few Things.

We liked this place but...it's a little beach funky and worn. Wouldn't mind if I was looking at the ocean but we were looking at some houses. Breakfast is meh. Staff was very friendly, and the location is close to the ocean. I lived in Rio Del Mar a long time ago, and if you didn't already know, it can be foggy and cold a lot of the time. Still beautiful, but it's not for everyone. You can head up to Seacliff and have dinner at Manuel's and ice cream at Marianne's. Enjoy!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Stephanie

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

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Scott

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great spot

Wonderful place and great value. Close to beach. Nice pool, hot tub, Coleman spacious room. Breakfast options limited
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Douglas

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

8/10 Good

James

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nestled in a peaceful residential area. One block from the beach. Nice walking area.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jesus A

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything was awesome the staff was very friendly I recommend it to any family that's willing to come to the oceanfront. The rooms were very clean
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Wilfred

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great location and relaxation

We’ve stayed here before and the easy access to the beach coupled with the nice pool and hot tub makes this one of our favorite places to vacation not to mention the clean rooms, comfy beds, and quiet neighborhood. The only thing that could be better is the “continental breakfast”…we expected at least some eggs and potatoes but all there was, was cereal, oats, toast and some coffee; not much else. So we decided to eat out.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tara

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025