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From110US$ /night
Check-in
11Mar2026Select date
Check-out
12Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

15 Ocean Avenue, York, Maine, United States, 03910
-
Steps from the beach
Very good
7.8
8.2
/10
3.9
4.1
/5

Location

Sands By The Sea Motel is located directly across from Short Sands Beach, providing oceanfront views. The hotel is a short distance from Long Sands Beach, which is accessible by a quick walk or trolley ride. Guests can explore all of York Beach's attractions, including shops, restaurants, and scenic walking paths within minutes.

Rooms

The motel offers 60 spacious rooms and vacation cottages, accommodating various group sizes and sleeping arrangements. Most rooms feature stunning views of the rocky Maine coast and the Atlantic Ocean. Many guests report extending their stay after enjoying the exceptional views from their balconies.

Amenities

Sands By The Sea Motel includes an outdoor heated pool for guests to enjoy. Parking is convenient with direct access to nearby attractions, allowing guests to avoid dealing with traffic. The motel also offers Sand Dollar Specials, providing discounts and savings on bookings throughout the year.

Family-Friendly Features

Families can take advantage of various nearby attractions, including York's Wild Kingdom zoo and theme park. With multiple dining options and activities within walking distance, kids and parents alike can enjoy their vacations. The motel's spacious accommodations make it suitable for family gatherings and group trips.

Activities

Water activities abound in the nearby harbor, including fishing charters, kayaking, and jet skiing. Guests can also explore the iconic Nubble Lighthouse and enjoy romantic sunset dinners while savoring the local seafood. Seasonal events throughout York Beach provide fun-filled experiences for visitors year-round.

Highlights

Location: Direct access to Short Sands Beach

Rooms: Stunning coast views from most rooms

Amenities: Outdoor heated pool

Family-Friendly: Close to York's Wild Kingdom zoo

Activities: Wide array of water adventures nearby

“What strikes me most is its enduring appeal as a beachfront motel since 1961, giving it a familiar, family-friendly feel; its location near Short Sands Beach and local attractions is a real advantage. For those prioritizing a straightforward, unpretentious beach vacation, this remains a solid choice.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
Double Room Two Double Beds
2 persons
250 sq. feet 
2 Double beds
Heating
Bathtub
King Room Sofa Bed
2 persons
250 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Heating
Bathtub
Double Room Two Double Beds Sofa Bed
2 persons
250 sq. feet 
2 Double beds
Heating
Bathtub
Deluxe Queen Studio
3 persons
2275 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Heating
Bathtub
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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking
Facilities: Very good
7.8/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors

Guest Parking

  • Dryer
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

  • Shops/Commercial services

Dining

  • Outdoor dining area

Business

  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Heated swimming pool
  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach access

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Garden furniture
  • Dining table
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Washing machine

Self-catering

  • Dryer
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Sands By The Sea Motel Location

15 Ocean Avenue, York, Maine, United States, 03910
Map view
15 Ocean Avenue, York, Maine, United States, 03910
Nearby
Zoo
York's Wild Kingdom
900 ft
Restaurants
Sweet Josie's Candy Shoppe
500 ft
7 Railroad Ave
Hawaiian Jim's Shaved Ice
500 ft
7 Railroad Ave
Surfside Restaurant
2300 ft
Freeman Street Adjacent to Short Sands parking lot
Explore York
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
York's Wild Kingdom
York's Wild Kingdom
4 minutes' walk
Family-friendly zoo and amusement park featuring diverse animals, rides, and picnic areas perfect for a day of fun.
Long Sands Beach
Long Sands Beach
20 minutes' walk
Beautiful sandy beach ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely strolls along the coast. Enjoy stunning sunset views.
Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse
Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse
25 minutes' walk
Iconic lighthouse with breathtaking coastal scenery, great for photos. A tranquil spot perfect for picnicking.
Beach Volleyball
1 minute walking
Exciting beach volleyball at Short Sands Beach. Equipment often available nearby for a fun workout and socializing.
Whale Watching Tours
9 minutes' drive
Unique whale watching tours available in the summer months. Book ahead for a thrilling experience amidst majestic marine life.
Surfside Restaurant
Surfside Restaurant
9 minutes' walk
Casual seafood eatery with ocean views, known for its fresh lobster rolls and clam chowder. Family-friendly atmosphere.
Sweet Josie's Candy Shoppe
Sweet Josie's Candy Shoppe
2 minutes' walk
Charming candy shop offering gourmet treats. Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth with homemade chocolates and fudge.
The Goldenrod
10 minutes' walk
Iconic local spot with live music and a vibrant atmosphere. Ideal for enjoying evening entertainment with family-friendly options.
Locals and Legends
10 minutes' drive
Host to local artists and events, offering a cozy setting for music lovers. Great for a night out with friends.
Getting around town
City Centre
York5 min  ·  1400 ft
Airports
Portsmouth International Airport at Pease (PSM)46 min  ·  18.8 mi
Portland International Jetport (PWM)107 min  ·  44.2 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-21:00
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Year renovated:
2012
Number of rooms:
53

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay
Review score
Based on 93 verified reviews
7.9/10
Very good
78%
Recommend
Cleanliness
8.3/10
Comfort
8.3/10
Facilities
7.8/10
Location
9.7/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.1/10
Staff
9.3/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Helpful staff
Great location
Clean rooms
Kind staff
Cons
Old mattress
Mold issues
Guest reviews
based on 189 reviews
7.8/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Sands By The Sea Motel
What is the check-in and check-out time at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Is parking available at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Free on-site parking is available without a reservation.
Which popular attractions are close to Sands By The Sea Motel?
Nearby attractions include York's Wild Kingdom Amusement Park and Zoo (0.5 km) and Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse (2 km).
What amenities are included in the rooms at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Rooms include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable, a refrigerator, a microwave, and free Wi-Fi.
What dining options are available near Sands By The Sea Motel?
Nearby restaurants include Inn On the Blues, The Union Grill and Pub, and The York Beach Bucket, all within 0.5 km.
Does Sands By The Sea Motel have an outdoor pool?
Yes, the motel features an outdoor swimming pool with a waterfall.
What is the closest airport to Sands By The Sea Motel?
Pease International Tradeport is 37 minutes' drive away, approximately 27 km.
What family-friendly activities are available near Sands By The Sea Motel?
York's Wild Kingdom provides animal exhibits and rides, suitable for families, and is a short walk away.
Is Sands By The Sea Motel suitable for beach access?
Yes, the motel offers direct access to the beach.
What are the outdoor activities available at Sands By The Sea Motel?
Guests can enjoy beach workouts and nearby water adventures such as kayaking and fishing charters.

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Check-in
11Mar2026Select date
Check-out
12Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room