This is a review of the drop-off process and parking lot only. I haven't stepped foot inside the store, so I don't know what the customer end looks, feels, or smells like. I was driving down from San Francisco to Southern California, and I had some clothes that I had been meaning to donate for months. I don't know anything about Salinas, but I assumed it was a big enough city to have a Goodwill, so I looked it up on Yelp and was soon making that right turn into the northern entrance to the parking lot. As I assumed, you can donate in the back of the building. There were already a couple of cars parked in the donation lane, but I only had a small bag, so I found a spot in the totally weird and slightly sus back of the parking lot and walked my bag toward the rear loading doors. It took a minute or two for one of the workers to come out of the store, but he was immediately friendly. He greeted me, told me I could leave my bag anywhere, and thanked me. And I was quickly off, back to my car. When leaving, I used the southern driveway. See, the parking lot surrounds the building, so you can enter and exit from either end (I think). There are parking spots across from the building as you drive along it, but there are many more way behind the building, where I parked. A dumpster was blocking some parking spots, and I had to maneuver to get around a parked semi-truck, which didn't fit in any spot. It was the middle of the day, so I wasn't really worried, but it's probably not the safest parking lot just because of how far away from the building and secluded it is. Main Street is pretty busy, and it's difficult to seen oncoming traffic because the building is in your way, so be very careful when exiting, on either side of the building. When I drove around looking for a place to eat, I saw that there was another Goodwill in Westridge Plaza, which is much more convenient to the 101 than this location is. Still, I'm glad my clothes will have new life, and I can't complain about the donation process here. read more

Goodwill Central Coast - The part of the parking lot with the most spaces, but also farthest and sketchiest. - Thrift Stores Near Me - Salinas, California

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I have been going to thrift stores since I was a little girl. Due to my parent's financial situation. They were laborers, agriculture field workers, and buying the newest and latest clothing, shoes, and household goods at department stores was a luxury that they just could not afford. You would think I grew up resentful for not having the latest and trendiest clothing and shoes. Instead it made me appreciate the availability of thrift stores like Goodwill that would clothe me and my family on a budget. In fact, for the most part, I have fond memories of digging for treasures at thrift stores like Goodwill. Until this day I thrift, not only for the savings and nostalgia, but for the thrill of finding a unique item at a reasonable price. My favorite articles of clothing are thrifted from here! I get compliments in what I wear from here all the time! I even found a retro clock here that I have always wanted and sought after for years! I'm not exaggerating when I say that when I found it on the shelf in perfect condition, I was so happy, it nearly brought a tear to my eye! The bonus is shopping at Goodwill and thrift stores is good for the environment too! I have an income where I can afford the newest, trendiest clothes, from the nearby shopping mall, and especially from stores like Ross, Marshall's, TJ MAXX, etc., but where is the fun in "cookie cutter fashion"?! Where is the thrill of buying what everyone else has?! That just doesn't vibe with unique personalities and I want to convey through my clothes and home decor that I'm not "basic" and boring. I started visiting this Goodwill about four years ago. I got a renewed interest in Goodwill shortly after the beginning of the Covid pandemic. Probably because of the uncertainty of the time and the scarcity of items and places to shop at. I was pleasantly surprised of the variety of items, clothing, shoes, books, and household items, and accessories that I found here! There's literally something for everyone! It's difficult to find quality items at a thrift store and this one by far has an excellent selection! It is now in my regular rotation of thrift stores to visit. It has also became my favorite Goodwill in California, and I have been to many Goodwills in my home state of California! One of the biggest reasons why it is my favorite thrift store is because it is clean. I don't walk in and get that unpleasant, disgusting whiff of body odor, moth balls, and stale air that is a common lingering odor in thrift stores. The used clothes are generally gently used and don't have stains or rips. I'm not tripping over merchandise and dodging junk on the floors. I don't worry about needing a tetanus shot because a worker didn't care to clean up a broken item on the shelf or on the floor. Most items are reasonably priced, they have new items too, and the staff are friendly and helpful. They offer to wrap your fragile items with clean newspaper and tape before you have to ask! I think it is because of the outstanding job by the manager Alex and the qualified staff. The manager Alex makes it a point to greet customers, makes customers feel welcome and valued, and he is always on point in making sure that his employees keep everything tidy and clean. This place runs like " a well oiled machine"! They are not only offering goods but a pleasant atmosphere to shop in. The professionalism is outstanding! The customers at times can be pretty "ghetto", letting their kids run around and dropping fragile items, but the employees handle it all with grace and professionalism. The employees seem happy and get along with one another and that is a reflection of how well kept and good the management staff is. When everyone understands the expectation of a comfortable environment and workplace, the entire atmosphere and vibe is felt by the customers. I appreciate that Alex and his staff take pride in what they do. They seem to genuinely care about their job and for all the people walking through the door. There's always plenty of parking. The donation location is clearly set up, clean, and doesn't interfere with the flow of traffic. There are occasional homeless folks outside and inside the store but the Goodwill staff is keenly aware of them and makes sure that the customer's safety and needs are the priority. I hope that the employees are appreciated by corporate headquarters because there is something very special about this thrift store. They are the benchmark for all thrift stores and I hope they will be recognized for what they do. read more

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A young man named Israel was very gracious and kind. We left our credit card behind. Israel ran out to the parking lot to return our card. Many thanks to Israel read more

They have a great selection of everything. I scored a handmade silk tie for $1.99. Also picked up an air purifier with a unused filter in it for $15. Lots of men's and women's clothing. The staff pretty keeps to themselves. Check out was efficient and quick. read more

Went to the N Main location for the first time and was pleasantly surprised! Walking in I was greeted by a "Welcome" greeting. Then Walking through the store I was impressed how clean. Organized and upkept it was especially since it was near closing. When checking out the cashier Isreal was very friendly. When leaving Isreal rn up to my car and waved my credit card to me and told me I forgot it. Outstanding service by Isreal, staff. I'm impressed by this business since I know it very well having worked retail for over 30 years. Trust me this branch is a true gem ! Will definitely be back! read more

Excellent staff. Always friendly. I love vintage style so here is where I search for your great grandmas purses and your great grandpas cashmere sweaters. Variety changes every day. read more

Always A Good Day Whenever I Find Treasures At The Thrift Store...!! I Been A Thrifter My Whole Life As A Child My Grandmother And My Mother Sold At Local Flea Markets As Well As Owning Their Own Thrift Stores As Well So I Know All About The Business. And Know A Lot Of Treasures Are Awaiting Shoppers Of All Kinds. The Goodwill Has Always Been A Part Of Our Lives And Still Is. read more

So many things are so Expensive now a days. I found some cute candelabras that someone had made that were missing some pieces that were $30.00 a piece, ridiculous. Another time I found a tye dye skirt that was originally marked $400.00 from a store (it had the original price tag on it) Goodwill maked it at $150.00 ugh.. There are no real bargains anymore. Even Used Halloween costumes were expensive. This location is really organized though, I appreciate that. It can be tough to get in and out of parking lot. The spaces are small. So I park in the back where there's more room. They have public Bathrooms. Usually a mess. You'll need a key. All the staff are very friendly and helpful. read more

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not friendly. Tried to make numerous donations, only to be told I needed to have them approved in advance by the workers in the collection area. Salvation Army was more than happy to take my otems read more

I love shopping at Goodwill, but lately it's been an upsetting shopping experience. They have a new rule where they can't sell anything that doesn't have a price YET they have plenty of inventory on the sales floor that isn't priced! All the belts are not priced and there's plenty of clothes unpriced as well. Why have them out if you can't sell them? And if you ask if they can price it on the spot or take the items to the back and price while we wait, they can't. It's upsetting when you want to purchase something and can't because they didn't price it. They also overprice items. If something is gently used or looks brand new, they jack up the prices! They price second hand handbags the same price as new bags at Ross/Marshall's (15.99+). I saw shoes that I had seen at the clearance section at Target for double the price. The shoes were on clearance at Target for 7.99 and being sold here for 15.99. I'm sorry but this is a secondhand store even if the items weren't used, we expect lower prices. Goodwill, please get yourself together. Plenty of people enjoy shopping here, this just reduces the experience. read more

This review is solely for this new bag policy they have now. Although I don't carry a bag, my wife does. Now we have to leave her purse in the trunk or lock them up in their joke of a locker at the front door. I noticed their enforcement of this new rule is selective. I've also noticed the amount of time and energy they waste informing everyone of this new policy as they walk in the door. I've watched numerous customers walk out over this policy very upset and offended. I think they should rethink how much labor they are spending on this and how many good paying customers are walking out over it. Other than this, I think it's a great store. read more

Has anyone shopped within the last 4 weeks at a local Goodwill Central Coast store? They had an employee at the warehouse that handles all merchandise going to the stores, he tested positive for Covid-19 and had worked for a week before being tested! Goods handled by him went to stores and the outlet center...hope you are all not infected as this company kept this employee being positive secret!!! read more

Goodwill Central Coast - Thrift Stores Near Me - Salinas, California

This is such a fun store to shop at. I used to go every few days just to browse Where else do you get new merchandise in every day that is always different, and at such rock bottom prices. I found so many good buys I cant begin to tell you. I also took them soo many items from my storage units when I moved out of town it made their heads spin. I gave them my stuffed animal collection, all 475 of them. That alone was w one storage unit. They also inherited about 3,000 children's books. I should have opened my own store with all the items I have them. You will have such fun just walking around this store and chances are you won't walk out empty handed. As Grinch says;" Ones man's junk is another man's pouporri!!!." read more

First-time visitor I am giving three stars because department store was clean and organized but overall everything I looked at was overpriced. I found a pair of Women's khaki pants that were ridiculously overpriced for second hand store. read more

Goodwill Central Coast - Thrift Stores Near Me - Salinas, California

Tried getting some nice shirts for my son online and they were like $30 each, went to goodwill and found really nice ones for $4 so I can't complain. read more

The first section of the parking lot (where you drive in for parking AND donation drop offs) was super backed up due to donation drop offs. People parked in the spots closest to the entrance ended up stuck and unable to back out. We were waiting long enough that my husband exited the drivers side, shopped, and came back while I waited in the car and only moved one car's length up while three more cars cued up behind us. read more

Very nice staff, no complaints about customer service, but i have shopped Goodwills since the early 1990's and never have i seen such inflated prices, far beyond other Goodwills in the area. In several incidences they clearly are asking more than the item was clearance for (clearance price tag still on item from Target). This is a good location, good staff and organized store. If they just dropped the prices a bit, it would be a very good addition to the Goodwill community. read more

Extremely professional and packed my shipments correctly!!!!!! I always like to see what they got almost daily

Had donations and it was super easy to drive up to a nice worker and unload our stuff in the cart. Very efficient!

Don't donate here these guys are asshol@s. Would not help me unload a brand new couch , told me I have to do it all on my own and tried to tell me parts were missing and they were not. Also made me tighten screws on bottom of couch. Since goodwill claims they "have job training" how come their workers don't and can't do shit. What are you training them to do? Stand there? Take your donations down to savers instead. Were they help you out and are happy to take your stuff. read more

Overpriced!!!! Anything they deem a good brand IE- Michael Kors (lol) they jack up prices to $30! Majority of people can't afford that! Reminder Goodwill, this is DONATED AND USED STUFF. This locations manager/pricer have lost their damn minds. read more

First time to this Goodwill, I came after 1:30ish quite busy for a Wednesday. Had to wait for a parking really small spaces, once I got in I was greeted by friendly staff. As I was shopping I notice there were many brand new items found many treasures. My hand cart was full with in the first 30mins and a sales associate asked if I would like a large shopping cart, I said yes please and he return shortly with one. I though that was super nice of him. Many friendly associate asked if I found everything ok Check out was fast and easy. I will be coming back here again! ;) read more

I often come to this good will, if you thrift you know what a mixed bag it could be walking into a thrift store. But this good will is by far the best in the area, everything is organized as much as a thrift store can be! This location organizes the clothes properly the electronics are also organized and everything labeled, the books and everything. They have sales often it's always worth checking out to see if you find something good. read more

Overpriced items. They remove items tagged color of the week with discount. example: if green tag is 25% discount for that week, the majority of the items with that tag are removed day before or day the sale starts. (advertising a sale a customer can not obtain) I've seen it done with the clothing twice. I've have asked why and 1 respond is to make space for new arrival. 2nd respond is because it's been in the rack the longest. Just in case you ever wondered why you can't find items with tags that are said to be on sale. read more

UPDATE 2019 - Ok, I have changed my mind a little about this Goodwill Store. The people that work inside are AWESOME! It is such a friendly place. The employees are so helpful and nice. I went there during the Christmas season and let me tell you, it was the happiest experience. Salespeople and customers were in such a cheerful mood. Christmas music was playing. I felt like I was in Santa's Workshop. I go there frequently now and I will definitely go during Christmas, if nothing more than to put me in the Christmas Spirit! read more

Never thought I'd say this... But this Goodwill is pricey! I always look for used kids books for school, but they were too expensive. The place is dark and dirty and not like my beloved Goodwill back in Sacramento... So sad. read more

I acquire books for a library and often find good choices here. One time I found one of my library books (with my bar code) and they were kind enough to "give it back." I will continue to buy books and other items here for my family. read more

I've always found good stuff here. It's the only one I like going to on the central coast. Cheap stuff, half off on tags of the week, lots of stuff to look at, and it always makes it worth the trip out there. read more

this is the most expensive goodwill i have been to i have seen shirts from $7-12 that's how i find shirts at Ross for.. come on guys... even little nick knacks $4-9 a five star notebook was $5! that's how much they cost at wal mart! i stopped coming here because i pay Ross, Wal mart prices for Goodwill items? come on guys... read more

Worst store ever. My husband wanted to buy a candle that had no price. He asked for a price. The guy took the candle and came back without it and said we can't sell it cause it has a chip. He said I want the candle. I need a price. Finally got candle back. Then I found bookends. And as everyone knows, bookends come in pairs. I took them. Went to pay and the cashier wanted to chair me twice for them. 3.29 per bookend. I said no and that bookends come in pairs. Why would I buy just one. So she goes to ask the same manager who earlier priced the candle. She comes back with a new price that was more than double the original price. I told her to keep your bookends and that you guys were a rip off. She in turn starts to talk back to me and I told her you gotta be kidding me and to enjoy her bookends. Worse store ever. Overpriced for one. Rude employees and we will never step foot in there as well as making sure our friends don't either. Terrible. read more

I don't mind being turned away, but after the very rude behavior of the donation sites I've tried, I won't donate to or purchase from goodwill again. I've never met ruder staff in the entirety of my life read more