Solaire Inn Suites Santa Maria

The place was clean and comfortable, even though it's an older motel. The price was fair, and it was near the amenities we needed. The man at the front desk was really friendly and gave us helpful tips for the rest of our trip toward Big Sur.

The room was bigger than I expected, with a king bed, and everything was clean: sheets, pillows, towels, bathroom, and floors. No bugs, stains, hair, mold, or nasty smells. The coffee maker, microwave, and mini fridge were all clean and working. Soap was provided, and the bathroom was surprisingly roomy and nice. Two adults fit comfortably, and the grounds were tidy. I paid a fair price for a clean, safe place, and honestly the room was worth even more. It's nothing fancy, and the road noise is noticeable but bearable. There's no fountain or outdoor table, and the AC/heater rattles and smells a little odd for the first few minutes. It's no Ritz, but you're not paying for one. For a budget-conscious traveler who still wants clean and safe, I'd recommend it. I'd give it five stars if the road noise were less pronounced. It's not terrible, but it's there.

I liked that it's all on one floor, so there are no stairs to climb, and the bathroom lights come on with motion sensors, a small luxury. There are lots of places to eat nearby, and the owner was chill. For the price, it's a good stay and definitely better than a Motel 6. I'm giving it five stars for the value, not because it's the fanciest place.

The room smelled moldy and musty, and it was dirty, nothing like the photos. The towels were like rags, and the mattress felt like a bare box spring with no padding. I would've been better off on the floor. There was no sound insulation at all: I heard every word from the neighbors as if they were standing in front of me, and road and parking lot noise seemed amplified. I didn't sleep a wink. I should've picked a motel brand with some standards. Read the reviews first. Do NOT stay here, you've been warned.