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Rio Sands Vacation Rentals

2.0 star property
Motel near Capitola Beach in Aptos

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Photo gallery for Rio Sands Vacation Rentals

Fountain
Interior
Deluxe Suite, Kitchen | Living area
Exterior
Standard Room, 1 King Bed

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Laundry

Explore the area

View in a map
116 Aptos Beach Drive, Aptos, CA, 95003
  • Place, Rio Del Mar Beach
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Seacliff State Beach
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪65 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed

Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed

Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(15 reviews)
  • 10 sq m
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(49 reviews)
  • 10 sq m
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

About the area

Aptos

Oceanside stay.At this Rio del Mar motel, you'll be within a 5-minute walk of 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 - 0.2 km
  • Seacliff State Beach - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Aptos History Museum - 19 min walk - 1.7 km
  • Capitola Beach - 6 min drive - 6.5 km

Getting around

  • San Martin Caltrain Station - 45 min drive
  • Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC) - 53 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Poki Bowl - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Whale City Bakery Bar And Grill Aptos - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Peet's Coffee - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Marianne's Ice Cream - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Venus Cocktails & Kitchen - ‬2 min walk

About this property

Rio Sands Vacation Rentals

Motel near Capitola Beach in Aptos
As a guest of Rio Sands Vacation Rentals, you'll find an outdoor pool, barbecue grills, and a vending machine. WiFi and wired Internet are free in public spaces. Rio Sands Vacation Rentals also features a garden, a picnic area, and laundry facilities. Self parking is free.

This Aptos motel is smoke free.

  • 40 guestrooms or units
  • 2 levels
  • 2 buildings
  • Poolside lounge chairs
  • Self-service laundry
  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Garden
  • BBQ grill(s)
  • Outdoor picnic space
  • No smoking on site
Rio Sands Vacation Rentals offers 40 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.

Similar properties

Bar (on property)
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Aptos
  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
4.3 out of 5, Excellent, 1,134 reviews
The price is CA $219
CA $252 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 3 - Jun 4
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Property amenities

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities
  • 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
  • Paper towels
  • 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

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

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)
  • Kitchen/kitchenette fee: USD 57 per stay
  • 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 Vacation Rentals to the airport?

Rio Sands Vacation Rentals is 8.5 mi (17-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 Vacation Rentals?

As of May 31, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Rio Sands Vacation Rentals on Jun 1, 2026 start from CA $124, 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 Vacation Rentals have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at Rio Sands Vacation Rentals.

How close is Rio Sands Vacation Rentals 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 Vacation Rentals offer free breakfast?

Rio Sands Vacation Rentals does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Rio Sands Vacation Rentals?

No, there is no casino at this motel.

What time is check-in at Rio Sands Vacation Rentals?

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 Vacation Rentals?

This motel offers free self parking.

Does Rio Sands Vacation Rentals have a pool?

Rio Sands Vacation Rentals features an outdoor pool.

Does Rio Sands Vacation Rentals have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this motel.

How close is Rio Sands Vacation Rentals to downtown Aptos?

Rio Sands Vacation Rentals is 0.6 mi away from Aptos.

Rio Sands Vacation Rentals Reviews

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 565 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 250 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 112 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 42 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 31 out of 1000 reviews

8.8/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Staff & service

8.0/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Scott P

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The room was really clean and spacious. Had all the amenities. My slider opened up to a patio and a beautiful courtyard. The pool was right there as well as a short cut to the beach, which was very close. The staff was great also. I used their barbecue grill which worked very well, and they had a nice little picnic area.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

8/10 Good

Gina

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
We love Rio sands. Been coming for over 25 years! Staff changes but always sweet. There has been a new owner change so alot has changed the past year. No more breakfast and just other nice little hotel perks. Hopefully he understands the guests that are longer than him and can be kind…. A lot of changes hve been rigid, and sadly will push the long-term moves away!! But as of now we will come. Crystal, the front one of the front desk, girls very sweet and kind but she’s also been there a while.!!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

6/10 Okay

Jennifer

Travelled with partner
Staff was pleasant when they were there but there were times when no one was present. Rooms could have more amenities like coffee maker, charging station, are bathroom sink didn’t have soap.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Raymond

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very courteous staff, great location
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Chantel

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
The Front desk Girl (Brooke?) was super nice and helpful!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

8/10 Good

Jasmine

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Enjoyed our stay. Room is spacious and comfortable. Lovely location. Great pool and hot tub.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Manolo

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

Genevieve

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Staff was very helpful and professional.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

David

Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Staff were friendly, helpful and very accommodating w last minute needs we had. Location was a bonus:Peaceful chill vibe the moment we arrived.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

4/10 Poor

Edward

Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Kitchen with no pans, no utensils no plates. Warm room , no fan or even ceiling fan. TV with no streaming or premium channels, banging from Maintenance. No lotion. Thin walls. Only good thing is they allowed me to switch rooms to an upstairs room. The people upstairs walked like the had cement I'm their shoes.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

6/10 Okay

John

Travelled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was great, however the pool hours were odd. 10am to 9 pm. The only coffee on site was at the front desk area, which opened at 9 am. The room was good. However the kitchenette had no dishes, not even glasses to get water.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

4/10 Poor

Mike

Travelled with family and small children
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
No room service and no staff to be found. They advertise breakfast online but when u get there they say no but have coffe but office doesn’t open till 9am.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

4/10 Poor

Susan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
Although the staff were nice and the hotel was clean. I don’t think I would return. The bed was hard and noisy. There was no coffee pot or even water cups. The heater was so loud it woke us up all night. No WiFi or breakfast but the price was pretty good. The short walk to the beach was convenient.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Jewlia

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We loved the location of the room and the hot tub
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

4/10 Poor

Seth

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities
The room was very tired and worn from the flooring to the paint, to the bathroom. Presumably it was clean from the strong smell of bleach but it was less than clean
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Linda

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Just so comfortable!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Minerva

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Demetra

Travelled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Spacious room in a wonderful location close to Rio Del Mar and Seacliff beaches. The price for the location can’t be beat. The negatives were that rooms were a bit noisy and lacked insulation. Could hear neighbors in the next room and there was a cold draft from the front door. It also lacked a coffee machine in the room which I found odd. But those were small things and we’d likely stay here again
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laura

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
No utensils, cups, dishes, pots, pans or anything but an oven fridge and microwave. It was a really cool set up but you would need to bring all the kitchen tools you would need to cook. No coffee maker but you could get coffee at the lobby. The pool and spa setup was great.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Patricia

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Moises

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Susan

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff was very helpful and friendly.. We were very happy with the facilities and room size. In past we had continental breakfast which was still listed on the website and not currently available. $50 for cookware set for a full size kichen was not acceptable. At least a minimum plates, cups . Also no coffeemaker, but was provided upon request.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Allison

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Aaron

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

2/10 Terrible

Licia

Disliked: Amenities
Stay away. This is basically camping. No amenities. Not even a plastic cup in the room. No coffee pot. They have cancelled their breakfast. Not even an Otis Spunkmeyer muffin. Curtains in room are not big enough to cover window- no privacy at all. No staff available outside of regular business hours. Tried to call for help- no answer. Manager smirked at me when I complained and offered no apology or empathy. “Those are just our new changes”….. 15 times. Dear Owners- I would start with her. Maybe some customer service training? This used to be my very very very favorite place. Stay away, friends.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025