Monterey Properties; Santa Clara Properties; Santa Cruz Properties; Fresno Properties; Short Term Rentals; List Your Rental; Residents; Owners; Contact; Blog; FAQs; Pay Rent. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. And conversely, if you choose to stay in Monterey, you can see SC on the way there. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. In Santa Cruz County, the fun only begins at the beach. HI-Santa Cruz Hostel is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel. One of the coolest places to stay in Santa Cruz, Capitola is packed with incredible things to see and explore. As you look for lodging for your trip, please come back and let us know what you find, so that we can give you advice on locations. It is a great option for Santa Cruz accommodation because it has comfortable rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, and free wifi. Theres also a large, fully-stocked kitchen. We stayed in Cambria overnight, it took about 4hours to get there. My plan now is to drive up from Pasadena to San Simeon via hwy 5 and then pick up hwy 1. You can whale watch from either town. Thanks everyone for the tips and recommendations. Its a great place to watch surfers. Situated south of Downtown, the Boardwalk spans the seaside and is home to buzzing attractions, busy restaurants, and cosy cafes. You are coming in Sept and the fire is supposed to be out by August end. Carmel Beach is beautiful for romantic walks and just enjoying the view, but the water is cold and rip currents are common. Santa Cruzs Boardwalk neighbourhood is one of the liveliest and most vibrant districts in the city. Andril Fireplace Cottages Seven Gables Inn Carmel Cottage Inn Casa Munras Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row Monterey Bay Inn. The very next year there were bare feet and jeans and long hair and granny dresses. Drink fresh and handcrafted beers at the Seabright Brewery. Hi - I'm traveling to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Most travelers stop in Santa Cruz en route to Monterey, especially since it's only a few hours from SF and the next leg of your drive might make for a seriously long day IF you also want to include a stop in Monterey and/or Carmel. You could also visit nearby Carmel which is one of our favorite towns on the CA coast. Visit the free-admission Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for a day of fun, games, rides, sweets, treats and so much more. Find your new favourite book at the legendary Bookshop Santa Cruz. You'd be hard-pressed to find a better room in a better location than at the Wayfarer (12 E. Montecito St., 805/845-1000, dorm beds $50-90, private rooms $200-300). Henry Cowell is 15 minutes away. We were planning to stay in Monterey one night. On the first leg, we are trying to decide if we should sleep in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? If youre still not sure where to stay in Santa Cruz, consider checking out these amazing treehouses in California! It is our pick for the best neighbourhood to stay in Santa Cruz if youre visiting for the first time because it has plenty of cultural attractions; is packed with bars, restaurants and shops; and, allows for easy access throughout the city and the wider county. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Answer 21 of 26: So with all the road and park closures in Big Sur we are considering cancelling our two night stay there in early March. :) Report inappropriate content november_moon San Jose, California Destination Expert for California Level Contributor 24,123 posts 138 reviews 71 helpful votes 8. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car ride. Set in central California, Santa Cruz is the epitome of west coast cool. More than 200 films have been shot in Monterey County, and it's now home to HBO's acclaimed Big Little Lies. Youll find plenty of bars, shops, restaurants, and the beach is within walking distance. 4:02 pm King City (California) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:02 pm drive for about 50 minutes. A continental breakfast is also included in each reservation. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Mornings going north, afternoon going south. The Best Western is ideally located in Capitola, Santa Cruzs best neighbourhood for hipsters, trendsetters and cool kids. Also, I'm thinking of staying at the Best Western in Morro Bay. Answer 1 of 15: Hi - I'm traveling to California early next August. The direct drive from Monterey to Santa Cruz is 43.5 mi (70 km), and should have a drive time of 49 mins in normal traffic. There is a good and informative visitor center and some great tide pools. What is the makeup of your party? This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. document.getElementById("ak_js_2").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); document.getElementById("ak_js_3").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); This website uses cookies to improve your experience. This hotel has 49 cosy, clean and comfortable rooms. Monterey is more diverse and touristy and you can find more moderate lodging than Carmel. Answer 1 of 19: Driving the coast from SF to LA. It breaks down the best areas to stay in Santa Cruz by interest and budget, so youll know exactly where to stay based on what you want to do. It will be warmer here, so if you want a beach day this is your place. Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. Founded on June 3, 1770, it was the capital of Alta California under both Spain and Mexico. Our home offers a view of the entire Monterey Bay and sits atop a hilltop with lots of privacy. Posted 2:23:02 AM. Get complete property information, maps, street view, schools, walk score and more. Santa Cruz seamlessly blends its relaxed beach lifestyle with a vibrant culture and some high tech industry. I concur with november moon. Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. It also offers easy access to the beach as well as many of Santa Cruzs most famous attractions and landmarks. Whether or not it is worth it for your family depends on your interests and what you would otherwise be doing with the time spent at the aquarium. more. Should I drive hwy 1 that part of the journey? The Monterey Hotel (from USD 112) Come and experience full-blown comfort at The Monterey Hotel. Located at the north end of Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz is a relaxed and laid-back city known as a counterculture and artistic hub with a bohemian feel and youthful vibes. Rooms from $159/night, book on Booking.com or Hotels.com. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63171840', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Cannery Row, have lunch then go back. Santa Cruzs 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in, #1 Downtown Where to Stay in Santa Cruz for Your First Time, #2 The Boardwalk Where to Stay in Santa Cruz on a Budget, #3 Midtown Where to Stay in Santa Cruz for Nightlife, #4 Capitola Coolest Place to Stay in Santa Cruz, #5 Aptos Where to Stay in Santa Cruz for Families, FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Santa Cruz, Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Santa Cruz. The aquarium is but one attraction in that area. There is one near the Holiday Inn Express, which is on Ocean Street which leads into town and one at the Boardwalk. Take that one, as its beautiful and different from Highway 1. The ocean is cold but you can swim in it especially from Capitola south. I concur with november moon. 5:52 pm Paso Robles eat at Niner Wine Estates stay overnight at Summerwood Winery and Inn I think the decision really depends on what you want to do and see and your overall plan. There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. Also, I'm thinking of staying at the Best Western in Morro Bay. On I-5 from Pasadena, you'll have to go over the Grapevine, which is what I-5 is called where it goes through the mountains just north of the LA basin - every semi-truck in the Western US seems to go over this pass. I would hang around Morro Bay for some water activity and marine mammal observation. Also, can any give me some input on hwy1 from LA up to San Simeon. In August they have Art & Jazz @ the beach on Sunday afternoons and Twilight Concerts on Wednesday evenings. These are some top choices for places to stay: Monterey: Pacific Inn Monterey (Budget), The Stevenson Monterey (Mid-Range), Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa (Luxury) & Beachside House (Private Rental) This is a much nicer route than I-5, which is really boring. The Best Western in Aptos is one of our best recommendation for where to stay in Santa Cruz for families. From $113.05 per night. Comfortable, big and close to the beach this family Airbnb is perfect for holidays together. Two of the most popular beach(es) in Santa Cruz itself are Seabright and Twin Lakes. I think my kids would love it. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77293425', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Santa Cruz will never live down the fact that the University was founded just before the 60's revolution", 50 years ago, by the way. It has 63 spacious rooms, free wifi and an outdoor pool. ISO Ocean front rental or hotel in the Monterey area. In this Santa Cruz neighbourhood guide, well look at the best places to stay based on what you want to do. Poor second cousin (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Furnished with an eye for detail, this Downtown Airbnb is the right place for visiting Santa Cruz for the first time. Obviously the true hippies have moved on but the areas still have a bit of that feel and try and remain colorful as opposed to going mainstream. Both are good choices, it really depends on the atmosphere that you want. See a show at the intimate and awesome Rio Theatre. We do not represent World Nomads. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Re: Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Its kind of a funky sort of place, a bit off-beat. I do not recommend staying at a hotel right near the Boardwalk, but there are some good ones nearer the Municipal Wharf, specifically the joie d'vivre Dream Inn, the Seaview Inn, the West Cliff Inn (a Victorian Bed and Breakfast) and a couple more. Both are good choices. IMO, Carmel/Pacific Grove is MUCH more attractive and interesting than Santa Cruz. We took 101 from LA to Canbria and it was just a gorgeous drive..I wouldn't have imagined that. We like the dining scene a lot more in Monterey-Carmel, but inexpensive eats are easier to find in Santa Cruz. (the aquarium sounds amazing). The 1960's "hippie" students I mentioned are now retired lawyers, doctors, university professors, heads of universities, involved in the genome project, and important members of communities all over California. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. As to which town, I prefer Santa Cruz, but I think Monterey has better restaurants. They won't hurt yu. The best one is the Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, further down on Ocean Street. Keep in mind that as beautiful as (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Situated south of Downtown, the Boardwalk spans the seaside and is home to buzzing attractions, busy restaurants, and cosy cafes. Thanks all! stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:21 pm drive for about 5 minutes 4:26 pm arrive in Monterey stay at Mission Ranch Hotel driving 1.5 hours Change your route From: To: Alternate route Enter a city to drive through, or find all trips from Santa Cruz to Monterey. Reserve now, pay when you stay. Try to help and people have to go on a rant. Pacific Grove is a really cute town right in between with bunches of Bed and Breakfasts. If looking at sea life excites you, you must visit the ocean-view decks to spot humpback whales. Downtown is a large neighbourhood located in central Santa Cruz. We have two girls, 15 and 10 and are an active family and love adventure, the beach, amusement parks and nature. A lot of people try to do the drive with only 1 or maybe 2 overnights, so splitting the trip more or less evenly becomes important, but with your plan, that's not an issue. Explore the streets, shops and bars of colourful Capitola Village. Twin Lakes is the next beach, just on the other side of the harbor. Not true. Also, can any give me some input on hwy1 from LA up to San Simeon. This is our first trip alone in quite a few years & I want it be fun, romantic & relaxing! Santa Cruz is more of a beachy town with lots of wide, sandy beaches, the Boardwalk amusement park, an eclectic downtown, strong surfing culture. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-109324334', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey Bay Aquarium. Alternatively, you may use, http://www.tripadvisor.com/help/how_to_edit_your_posts. This colourful and European-esque neighbourhood is one of the coolest places to stay in Santa Cruz because it has great dining, pristine beaches and lots of things to see and do. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. It offers easy access to shops, restaurants and bars, and is close to the beach. 10:47 am Monterey stay for about 4 hours and leave at 2:47 pm drive for about 1 hour. It has great shopping, delicious dining, buzzing nightlife and some of the most beautiful beaches in the state. Monterey is more coastal - there are some beaches too, but the coastline is rocky so the focus is more on scenery and wildlife. Located in the heart of Monterey Bay between Santa Cruz and Monterey, 4 miles inland of Moss Landing, 20 miles from Santa Cruz and 15-18 miles from Monterey and Carmel. . So its up to you what you want to do. Set at the heart of the city, this hotel is a short walk to great dining, nightlife, shopping and sightseeing options. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77282033', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey/Carmel area. There are no "hippies". It is an artsy neighbourhood located to the east of the city centre and is well-known for its colourful and vibrant buildings along with its great restaurants and artisanal shops. My family of four is taking a 13 day trip to San Francisco (3 days), Yosemite (2 days) and down the coast ending in LA. Monterey. I live downtown and walk Pacific Avenue regularly. Walking distance from the famous pier but you can rent bikes form them as well. Mar 5 - Mar 6. . As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads usingthis link. Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Cruz, an IHG Hotel. What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? We really appreciate & are super excited about our adventure! Enjoy an awesome meal with a great view at Sanderlings Restaurant. They are located at opposite ends of the same bay, so the area for whale watching is pretty much the same from either town. Oceana Inn Santa Cruz is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-41177793', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Francisco the first week of August. From Monterey to Santa Cruz expect a slow down through Moss Landing. It has great features, like a swimming pool and tennis courts, and each room is well-equipped with a private bathroom and a kitchenette. Both are great. Would you recommend one? It is centrally located and within walking distance of the beach. Princess or sanctuary cruises (Whale watching). Its always been a big hit with the kids in our family. 7855 Monterra Oaks is an exceptional 2.72 acre private homesite boasting unobstructed panoramic ocean views of Monterey Bay, city lights and the Santa Cruz mountains. The downtown areass of Monterey and Carmel are nicer. Are there a lot of must dos in Santa Cruz? A big construction project is starting on the bridge over the Santa Cruz harbor in September. Here youll find a vast array of independent boutiques, delicious restaurants, charming inns and lively bars. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. Santa Cruz is more of a beachy town with lots of wide, sandy beaches, the Boardwalk amusement park, an eclectic downtown, strong surfing culture. This article was written by travellers for travellers. Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? Don't stay at any with "Boardwalk" in the name.. Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf are touristy, but downtown isn't really - they are all close together though. From a hotel on the beach, to a quaint inn or bed and breakfast, to a vacation rental for the family or a rustic campground, you can rest easy in Santa Cruz County. For things to see on the Monterey Peninsula see https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g580824-Activities-Monterey_Peninsula_California.html Take 101, it's much more pleasant than I-5. Wake up early and enjoy the beautiful view of the sea, beach and wharf right from your window. Santa Cruz has a more tie-dye and granola feel . more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. The home is incredibly airy and bright, equipped with only high-quality amenities and comfy furniture. Carmel, Pacific Grove, and Monterey are adjacent to one another.Santa Cruz would be further north. When is your trip planned for? Both SC and Monterey have good options for dinner and good lodging. Thank you for your input. Spend a day basking on the sands of New Brighton State Beach. One person's must-see can be another person's meh. It has a great central location and is close to restaurants, shops, the beach and more. Monterey is more coastal and less beachy. Tucked throughout the neighbourhood are a good variety of galleries and shops that showcase the excellent works of local artists, musicians, actors and writers. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. Santa Cruz has a hippie vibe downtown. One night in each is a lot of moving without covering much distance. I would also suggest a visit to the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ?