Rio Sands Motel is an easy 2 minute stroll to Rio Del Mar Beach where you can play on 20 miles of uninterrupted sandy beach, fish or wander onto the wharf leading to the Palo Alto - a cement ship with a fascinating past. We are situated in a nice quiet residential area that is away from the hustle and bustle of city life but just minutes away from all that Santa Cruz, Capitola and Monterey have to offer. We are only 8 miles from the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and 35 miles from Monterey Bay Aquarium. While at the Rio Sands start your day with our expanded Continental Breakfast. Play in the swimming pool, heated to 80 degrees all year or relax in the pool side Family Spa or the adults only Garden Spa. Have a BBQ in our park like setting - perfect for a gathering of family and friends. Nearby you can go beach combing, fish, hike, bike, kayak, golf, shop, visit museums or wineries, just to name a few. Sorry, but pets are not allowed.