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Accommodation & Lodging

Accommodation & Lodging

Southwest, USA

Accommodation Types

Lodging Categories

  • Hostels

    Limited options, The Lazy Lizard Hostel. A budget-friendly choice for solo travelers seeking a social setting.

  • Motels/Inns

    Numerous options in Moab, ranging from basic to larger chain properties (e.g., Super 8, Comfort Suites). Parking and Main Street access are common features.

  • Hotels

    Mid-range to upscale hotels and resorts are available, many with amenities like pools, hot tubs, and on-site dining. Hoodoo Moab and Hyatt Place Moab are examples.

  • Unique Stays

    Boutique hotels, standalone cabins, or glamping sites add to the array of lodging choices.

Alternative Stays

  • Vacation Rentals

    Very popular in Moab. These lodging types feature more space, privacy, full kitchens, and laundry facilities. Airbnb, Vrbo, and local management companies offer these. Book well in advance, especially during busy times.

  • Camping & Outdoor

    A popular and cost-effective way to stay, near natural settings. This includes National Park Service Campgrounds, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Campgrounds, Private Campgrounds/RV Parks, and Dispersed Camping on designated BLM lands.

  • Homestay Options

    Homestay options or community-based tourism are not common in Moab's established tourism market, where commercial lodging is the focus.

  • National Park Campgrounds

    Devils Garden (Arches NP) is reservable far in advance. Willow Flat (Canyonlands, Island in the Sky) is first-come, first-served. Squaw Flat (Canyonlands, Needles) is reservable.

Neighborhood Guide

Moab is a small town, mainly centered on Main Street (US-191). The different areas present distinct characters for visitors.

Downtown Moab

Highlights
  • Heart of Moab activity.
  • Restaurants, shops, tour operators.
  • Walkable access to dining and services.
  • Lively atmosphere.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, especially during peak season.
  • Parking can present a challenge.
  • Awareness of surroundings advisable.

North & South Moab

Highlights
  • North: Newer hotels, quieter residential areas.
  • North: Closer to Arches National Park entrance.
  • South: Quieter, near La Sal Mountains loop road.
  • South: Access to southern trailheads.
Considerations
  • Driving for downtown amenities.
  • North: A longer walk to downtown.
  • South: Driving for northern national parks.
  • May be slightly less expensive.

Colorado River Corridor

Highlights
  • Scenic drive along the Colorado River (UT-128).
  • Numerous BLM campgrounds and vacation rentals.
  • Direct river access for water activities.
  • A quieter, more natural setting.
Considerations
  • Further from town amenities.
  • Driving for dining and shopping.
  • Limited services in this corridor.

Proximity to Attractions and Noise Levels

Access to Parks

All areas involve driving for national park access (Arches is 5 miles north, Canyonlands Island in the Sky is about 30 miles north/west).

Ambiance

Downtown Moab experiences activity and noise, specifically during busy season evenings. Areas away from Main Street generally offer more tranquility. Campgrounds along the river or outside town present natural quiet and a remote sense.

Booking Strategies

Securing your lodging in advance in Moab is a sound approach, especially during popular travel periods.

Advance Booking by Season

  • High Season (Spring/Fall): Book hotels and vacation rentals 6-12 months in advance. National Park campsites (Devils Garden, Squaw Flat) open for reservations 6 months out and fill quickly. BLM reservable sites also fill fast.
  • Shoulder Season (November/February): Booking 2-4 months ahead is advisable, notably for popular weekends. This offers more selections and better rates.
  • Low Season (Winter/Summer): Availability is common 1-2 months in advance, or even last-minute for winter. Summer offers more flexibility for hotels due to heat, but camping remains competitive due to water activity demand.
  • Walk-in Rates: Negotiation for walk-in rates is not customary in Moab, especially during peak season. Prices typically stay fixed. Occasional small discounts may surface in the true off-season for motels, but this is rare.

Booking Platforms

  • General Platforms: Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, Airbnb, Vrbo are widely used for various lodging types.
  • Campsites: Recreation.gov is the system for reserving National Park and many BLM campsites.
  • Direct Booking: Check hotel websites directly for potential offers, loyalty points, or specific room types not listed elsewhere.
  • Local Property Management: Some vacation rentals are managed by local companies; their sites may reveal additional choices.

Policies and Fluctuations

Deposit & Cancellation Policies
  • Policies vary by provider.
  • Most hotels typically have a 24-48 hour cancellation window before check-in.
  • Vacation rentals often have stricter policies, with cancellations 30-60 days prior to arrival to avoid charges.
  • Always review policies carefully before confirming your booking.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Lodging prices can be 2-3 times higher in peak season (Spring/Fall) compared to low season (Winter).
  • Summer prices are generally high due to demand for water activities, but slightly less than peak spring/fall rates.
  • Plan your visit with seasonal pricing in mind.

Booking Advisory

Always Book Ahead

Secure your lodging well in advance, especially for popular seasons, to secure your preferred options.

Review Terms

Thoroughly read all deposit and cancellation policies for clarity on your booking terms.

Check Directly

Visit hotel websites directly for special deals or loyalty programs not listed elsewhere.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some suggested accommodations for various budget levels and traveler types in Moab. Actual availability and prices vary based on season and demand.

Budget-Friendly Options

Camping Experiences

Devils Garden Campground (Arches NP, early reservations recommended), Willow Flat Campground (Canyonlands NP, first-come, first-served), and many BLM campgrounds along Hwy 128 or Potash Road.

  • Devils Garden Campground
  • Willow Flat Campground
  • BLM Campgrounds (Hwy 128, Potash Road)
  • Primitive camping options
Hostels & Motels

The Lazy Lizard Hostel for basic dorms and private rooms. Motels like Super 8 by Wyndham Moab and Motel 6 Moab deliver straightforward, value-driven lodging.

  • The Lazy Lizard Hostel
  • Super 8 by Wyndham Moab
  • Motel 6 Moab
  • Value-focused stays

Mid-Range & Luxury Stays

Mid-Range Hotels & Rentals

Wingate by Wyndham Moab, Hampton Inn Moab, Comfort Suites Moab, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab. Vacation rentals on Airbnb/Vrbo also present choices for more space.

  • Wingate by Wyndham Moab
  • Hampton Inn Moab
  • Airbnb/Vrbo Vacation Rentals
  • Comfort and standard amenities
Luxury Hotels & Resorts

Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton; Hyatt Place Moab. For a more secluded luxury experience, Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa, located outside town along the Colorado River.

  • Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton
  • Hyatt Place Moab
  • Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa (secluded)
  • Upscale services and comfort

Family-Friendly & Solo Traveler Stays

  • Family-Friendly Options

    Many hotels feature suites or connecting rooms, offering more space for families. Vacation rentals are often ideal, with multiple bedrooms, living areas, and kitchens. Private campgrounds (e.g., Moab KOA) often include pools and playgrounds, appealing to children.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    Hostels like The Lazy Lizard offer settings to connect with other travelers. Single rooms in budget motels also present a private, affordable alternative. Camping is a popular and social choice, specifically at BLM campgrounds where fellow adventurers may be met.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Vacation rentals with full kitchen facilities typically are the best choice for longer stays, offering a home-like setting and meal cost savings. Some hotels may present extended-stay rates; inquire directly for these.

  • Cultural/Historical Significance

    No specific properties in Moab gain wide recognition as historical landmarks for lodging. However, some older motels showcase a classic roadside appeal that echoes Moab's history as a travel destination. Their character offers a sense of nostalgia.

Planning Considerations

  • Tailor to Your Trip

    Align your accommodation choice with your travel style, group size, and desired level of amenities.

  • Read Reviews

    Consult recent reviews on booking platforms to gather insights on cleanliness, service, and location specifics.

  • Season Matters

    Lodging availability and pricing fluctuate significantly with the season; plan and book accordingly.

  • Location Preferences

    Consider if a central downtown location with walkability or a quieter, more scenic outlying area suits your visit best.

Consider Camping for an Unique Stay

Why Camp in Moab?

Camping presents a close connection to nature and is a cost-effective way to stay. It situates you amidst the red rock scenery, offering memorable sunrise and sunset views.

  • Proximity to nature
  • Cost-effective lodging
  • Scenic views
  • Stargazing opportunities
Tips for Campers

Reservations are strongly advised for National Park campsites, especially during peak seasons. BLM sites often operate on a first-come, first-served basis, calling for an early arrival. Always check for current fire restrictions and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.

  • Reserve early for NPS sites
  • Arrive early for FCFS BLM sites
  • Check fire restrictions
  • Practice Leave No Trace

Consider Your Priorities

Convenience

Downtown lodging offers walkability to shops and restaurants, though it may have higher noise levels.

Tranquility

Areas north or south of town, or riverside campgrounds, present quieter, more secluded environments.

Budget

Camping and budget motels offer the most economical stays, especially outside of peak seasons.