We stopped here for the last night of our journey on the Garden route and it was simply wonderful. Our ocean facing room was absolutely fine. Courtesy trays and mini bar were well stocked and provision of an expresso machine a first for us!! The only slight problem was the the flat screen television did not fit the old style TV cabinet.

Unfortunately when we arrived I had been a little unwell for some days. Late afternnon, we were asked to make selections for dinner from a very short menu. None of the options offered were vegetarian but the lady chef devised an alternative menu and cooked me an absolutely superb meal which I unfortunately could not finish.

Most of the rooms are ground floor with sun terraces facing the ocean. In the the small garden there is a sea water unheated swimming pool which although fairly narrow, is perfectly adequate and certainly a degree or two warmer than the actual ocean which we actually managed to take a dip in for all of 45 seconds!!

All of the staff were very nice people and our only regret about staying here was that it was only for 1 night.

This hotel is a boutique hotel within the Protea hotel group - but with no disrespect to the hotel group (w did stay with them in J'burg and Cape Town and enjoyed their hospitality) one would rightly think that this is a small and classy boutique hotel under private management. It has none of the feeling off a hotel chain, only the warmth, great staff, and comfort that we all associate with small and private establishments.

The bedroom was spacious and comfortable.
We ate in (the only guests to do so) and had a great meal.
Breakfast we complete and perfect
and the guests areas had everything one could possibly need.

Small number of rooms, all of them very comfortable, great location at the beach, friendly and helpful service.

I agree with everything "ripandemily" just posted in their review. Our only regret with the Sands is that we could only stay for one night! The service here was the best and warmest we have ever had. To the hand written welcome notes when we arrived to having our car washed and the gifts when we left. The staff could not have been more helpful or friendly. We were on our way to the Pumba Game Reserve and Chanelle (who also worked at the reserve) gave us lots of little tips about our upcoming stay there.
All of the food was wonderful and the small dining room beautiful too. Our room even had a private deck with our own hot tub! We took a long walk along the Indian Ocean collecting different sea shells before we left.
This was the best place to stop before our safari and I only wish I had booked a night after as well!