Stay at The Motel By the Sea in Thermal, CA. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly rooms, lake views, and easy access to Joshua Tree National Park and local attractions.
Guests appreciate the motel’s peaceful location near the Salton Sea and the availability of basic amenities that support a no-frills experience.
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Rooms, shared spaces, dining and exterior — grouped so you can skim quickly.
The Motel By the Sea is a straightforward lodging option situated just steps from the shores of the Salton Sea. This basic motel offers rooms with essential amenities, some featuring views of the lake or surrounding mountains. Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and free parking, while the property remains accessible and welcoming to both families and pets.
Facilities are minimal, with no on-site restaurant, fitness center, or pool, making this a practical choice for travelers seeking a no-frills stay close to nature. The motel’s lakeside setting provides easy access to several outdoor activities and local attractions, such as Steve's ATV Rentals and the highly rated Calcite Mine Trailhead, appealing to visitors interested in exploring the nearby landscape.
Located at 1008 Ontario Ave in Thermal, California, the property is approximately a one-hour drive from Palm Springs International Airport and within comfortable driving distance of other regional airports. Its proximity to California State Route 86 offers convenient access to the surrounding area, including Joshua Tree National Park, about 45 miles away.
With a 4.8 rating based on 91 reviews, The Motel By the Sea is generally well regarded, although the overall guest experience is straightforward rather than luxurious. This accommodation is suitable for those looking for an economical place to stay near the lake rather than a full-service hotel experience.
The short version: what's available day-to-day, and the key practical details most travelers search for.
This simple lakeside motel is a 1-minute walk from the shores of Salton Sea, 3 miles from California State Route 86, and 45 miles from Joshua Tree National Park.
Curated spots travelers usually pair with a stay in California. Distances are rough real-world times, not straight-line.
251 reviews 2104 Frontage Rd, Thermal, CA 92274, United States
388 reviews 3089 Norm Niver Rd, Thermal, CA 92274, United States
8 reviews Calcite Rd, Borrego Springs, CA 92004, United States
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