We stayed at the Blue Sands for two nights last week. We chose the motel based on the location (only a 10-15 minute walk to State St and about 2 minute walk to the beach) and also because they allow dogs. On the outside it looks like a typical motel, nothing fancy, but we were pleasantly surprised that on the inside our room was very clean and modern. We paid an extra $10/day for a nice size kitchen with full refrigerator/freezer and stove. We weren't too concerned about how nice the hotel was because we planned on being out all day and just sleeping there at night...that's where the problem with this place comes in. The walls are so thin that we could hear exactly what our neighbors were watching at 3am (The Three Amigos if anyone is curious) and we could also hear every door opening and meal being microwaved. We were in a downstairs room and the people staying upstairs had to have been a midget NBA team playing a full game all night. So the primary objective of sleeping in this motel was actually very hard to achieve. We would probably not stay here again unless they do a serious remodel and put some insulation in the walls and ceilings. This is very unfortunate because it is definitely a nice location and the staff was very friendly.

Had a view of the park and glimpses of the water. Very comfortable with microwave ,fridge and wine cooler. In close proximity there is an organic supermarket which sells wine and beer also. Need a car up to the jetty and restaurants.Office staff very helpful with information. Pool area very well maintained. No air conditioning but sea breeze was nice. Quite noisy in morning with traffic.. Good for cheaper alternative.

A friendly comfortable motel. The guy running the place was friendly and helpful. The whole place was delightfully decorated. The room had a comfortable bed and was a decent size and the bathroom was first class., It was very pleasant to sit on our verandah eating breakfast. There was however no air-conditioning in the room but instead a very good fan. The swimming pool was warm and a reasonable size, however there was virtually no shallow end. It becomes 5 feet deep within about three feet. Very good beach towels are supplied. Unfortunately there is no laundry for guests and no morning coffee at reception. There was a fireplace and wine cooler in our room as well as a microwave. Finally the motel is brilliantly situated - right by the East beach and close to an excellent beach cafe. Despite the drawbacks I would stay there again

I stayed here in June 2012 with my boyfriend, mother & aunt for a brief trip to the Santa Barbara area. We had a 2 bedroom suite which, considering this is a "motel", was fantastic. Rooms were pretty spacious and very clean. The location is right across from the beach (we had a great view from our room), and not too far from Smith St. if you don't mind walking. The staff was friendly and helpful as well, so I really can't complain. It was a great value for an incredibly reasonable price and I would definitely stay here again.