Sands Inn & Suites

The hotel is undergoing significant renovations, which is a prominent feature, aiming to enhance its appeal while offering great value for its location. Its proximity to downtown San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly campus makes it a convenient choice for various travelers. This hotel is particularly well-suited for Cal Poly visitors attending events or visiting students, families seeking spacious accommodations, and budget-conscious travelers looking for an affordable stay without compromising on location. Couples can also find a quiet retreat here, with some guests noting peaceful nights. While many appreciate the ongoing updates, some guests advise confirming the status of renovations and checking room conditions upon arrival to ensure a comfortable experience. It is also recommended to be aware of potential noise from construction or other guests due to varying soundproofing.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, with the pool and spa/hot tub frequently highlighted as enjoyable amenities, often available for guest use. Many guests appreciate the presence of kitchenettes in some rooms, although it's noted that these often lack essential cookware or utensils. While free Wi-Fi is provided, some guests reported issues with connectivity or difficulty logging in. The hotel also features a laundry service, though several reviews indicate it was not functional during their stay, which was a disappointment for those relying on it. A fitness center is available, but some feedback suggests it could benefit from updating or equipment repair. Overall, the facilities aim to provide convenience, but their condition and availability can be inconsistent due to ongoing property improvements.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest experiences regarding cleanliness and room comfort are notably mixed. Many guests praise the rooms as clean, spacious, and recently renovated, with some appreciating the wood floors for a fresh feel. The beds are often described as comfortable, contributing to a restful night's sleep for some. However, a significant number of reviews highlight issues such as dirty floors, stained sheets, and soiled bath mats, with some even reporting bugs or bed bugs. Noise is a recurring concern, with thin walls allowing sounds from neighboring rooms to be easily heard, impacting sleep quality. Other reported issues include uncomfortable beds (described as hard, lumpy, or squeaky), non-functional or noisy AC/heating units, low shower pressure, leaking sinks, slow-flushing toilets, and a general lack of bathroom amenities like soap or sufficient towels. Some rooms also lack adequate electrical outlets.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast receives varied feedback, with many guests finding it to be a decent and convenient offering. Typical selections include scrambled eggs, sausage, make-your-own waffles, bagels, toast, cereal, oatmeal, and a selection of fruit like apples and oranges. Beverages such as coffee, juice, and milk are also available. While some appreciate the variety and the hot options, others report issues with items running out quickly and not being replenished, especially later in the breakfast service. There are also mentions of moldy bagels, spoiled milk, and flies in the dining area, leading some guests to describe the overall food quality as unappealing or disorganized. The coffee quality is also inconsistent, with some finding it good and others noting it was not very palatable.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently praised as a major advantage, offering easy access to various points of interest. It is conveniently situated near downtown San Luis Obispo, allowing guests to walk to numerous restaurants, shops, and local attractions. The proximity to Cal Poly campus is also a significant benefit for visitors to the university. Additionally, the hotel provides quick access to the freeway, making it a practical stop for travelers. However, parking is a frequent point of concern. Many guests report that the parking lot is often full, limited in space, or unorganized, sometimes forcing them to park on the street. The presence of construction waste in some parking areas further detracts from the experience.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and accommodating nature. Many guests highlight the quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to facilitate early check-in requests. Specific individuals are often commended for their exceptional customer service, going above and beyond to assist guests and resolve issues, such as room changes or providing discounts for inconveniences. The staff's attentiveness and positive demeanor are frequently mentioned as a significant factor contributing to a pleasant stay. However, some reviews indicate challenges with unresponsive staff via text or phone calls, particularly after hours. There are also isolated reports of housekeeping not performing daily service or being thorough, and some guests experienced difficulties with refunds not being processed as promised.

Additional Information
A significant aspect impacting guest experience is the ongoing renovation and construction work, which is often unadvertised and can lead to noise during the day and construction waste around the property. Some guests report issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, despite its availability. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, accommodating guests traveling with animals for a fee. While some rooms feature kitchenettes, guests frequently note a lack of basic kitchen supplies. It is also important to note that the property does not have an elevator, which can be a consideration for guests with mobility issues or heavy luggage. Furthermore, some guests have raised concerns about after-hours assistance for noise complaints or other urgent matters, as well as instances of room doors being left ajar by staff after cleaning.