The Sand Castle Inn And Suites

IB is easy to get around on foot, and we barely used our rental car. There’s also a bus stop right outside if you don't want to rent one. We walked to Arandas Cafe for breakfast, then along the pier to watch the surfers. The price was so much cheaper than staying in San Diego, while still putting major attractions close by. My girlfriend and I booked a short birthday trip and were blown away. The renovated rooms were just right, the views were incredible, and the beach was only steps away. Contactless check-in was simple, and not having to remember a key whenever we left was a nice bonus.

We've been coming here for many years, for romantic trips as a couple and little vacations with the family. I love cooking for everyone in the kitchenette, and the newly renovated rooms are great for a short break. It's right across from the beach and an easy walk to the IB pier, good food and drinks, bats, and coffee spots.

Don't expect daily housekeeping: my room wasn't cleaned during my four-day stay. The management isn't on site, but they respond quickly to questions through the booking platform or by text. Sand Castle is a small renovated motor lodge about a block from the ocean, well placed for walking around Imperial Beach. The room was clean, with island style furnishings that suit the sand you might bring in. There was lots of stone, saltillo tile, and rustic bare wood. The bed was amazingly comfortable.

Just a block from the beach and a couple of blocks from the pier, this cute, welcoming place has shops, local eateries, and coffee shops within walking distance. The office staff are super sweet, it's pet friendly, and there's a lit patio at night plus vending machines. There isn't air conditioning, but that information is posted in the lobby and on the website, so people complaining about it may have missed the signs. They do provide a fan in the kitchen, one in the bedroom, and a rotating fan that plugs into an outlet. Open the windows and you get a nice breeze. For the price, you can't complain!