Sands Townhouses

The host stopped replying after we reported the dirty beds, so we had to go through Airbnb to get our money back. We’d driven two hours to 64 West Grand Ave in Old Orchard Beach and were exhausted when we got there. The photos made the Airbnb look adorable, but there was sand all over one bed, and the second had a used Q-tip along with more sand. The host’s only response was to ask if we “just wanted clean sheets.” I considered sleeping in my car. If the bedding was left like that, I can only wonder what else was missed. The place looks cute outside, but inside it was a disaster. You couldn’t pay me to return. (Airbnb asked us to write a review:))

It’s a nice spot for a getaway, with the beach right across the street, but don’t expect quiet. Route 9 traffic, motorcycles, and people passing by kept things noisy until around 11 p.m., though the mornings were calm. The train tracks are right behind the place, and the horn went off at 2:30 a.m. and again at 4:45 a.m. The whole room shakes when it passes. It doesn’t last long, but still. The unit is small, the kitchen especially, and four people is probably the limit.

Parking could be a hassle if you bring more than one car, since each room gets just one spot. You may have to pay to park farther away, though there’s a lot behind the hotel near the mini golf and a shortcut through the building gate. The office check-in was a little confusing, but the woman there was nice, and staff came by regularly to take trash and check on things. The kitchen had useful supplies, and the old hotel was fairly clean. The beach is just across the street. Space is the big drawback: it says it sleeps six, but the kitchen and living area feel cramped with more than a few people. And that bed was unbelievably squeaky. It was comfortable, but every move felt like it would wake the whole house. Definitely needs an upgrade.

The location is great, but the bathroom was a bit dirty and the shower was pretty rough.