To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. If you want classic beach stuff - laying out, volleyball, playing in the waves, Santa Cruz is what you want. They are located at opposite ends of the same bay, so the area for whale watching is pretty much the same from either town. Most major cities along the coast including San Francisco, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles have the presence of most hotel chains and it is easy to find a place to stay for all budgets. Theres also complimentary wifi. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Should we. ), Bougie-coffee lover and staunch enemy of coriander; TEFL-certified language teacher, linguist, and aspiring polyglot. Th most breathtaking of Highway 1 is when you leave the Cambria area for the next 2hours. We are pretty active so we like hiking and kayaking, but we also like to stay in nice accommodations at the end of the night with good food and a nice glass of wine. We were in CA last June and stayed in Santa Cruz, and visited the Aquarium. If you want to go a more scenic way along the CA Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway or the PCH), then plan that to take you about 2.25-2.5 hours. Henry Cowell is 15 minutes away. Delve deep into history at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. Best Areas to Stay in Santa Cruz Santa Cruz is a quintessential California beach town, facing the Pacific some 70 miles south of San Francisco. So whether youre looking to relax, surf, eat or party, Santa Cruz is a city that has something amazing for travellers of all ages, styles and even budgets. It is centrally located and within walking distance of the beach. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77278122', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Santa Cruz is more of a classic CA beach town with a surf culture and an eclectic downtown. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-109323473', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Francisco to Santa Cruz or Monterrey. I think the decision really depends on what you want to do and see and your overall plan. It has a convenient location, comfortable beds, and a great range of amenities and features. Edited: 01 June . Continue travelling east along the coast to Capitola. The Rio Vista Inn is our favourite hotel in Santa Cruz. Theres also an outdoor swimming pool and on-site parking. However, don't expect warm water in Santa Cruz, either. Of course, Henry Cowell state park is closer to Santa Cruz, so SC would be more convenient for that. We arrive Monday afternoon and leave Saturday morning out of the San Francisco airport. Stay in Monterey or Carmel. Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! Natural Bridges and other beach parks. Take that one, as its beautiful and different from Highway 1. I think my kids would love it. Or spend a night or two in both to maximize your time on the coast. Seriously. Santa Cruz is the beach locals go to for sun and water activities. Dig into an amazing meal any time of day at Ideal Bar & Grill. Compare 578 hotels, room rates, hotel reviews and availability. Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruises A humpback whale breaches in Monterey Bay. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Carmel Beach is beautiful for romantic walks and just enjoying the view, but the water is cold and rip currents are common. You can whale watch from either town. 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. Not only will you find the citys only hostel here, but this neighbourhood is packed with delicious cheap eats and inexpensive activities to enjoy. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77282033', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey/Carmel area. 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. In Santa Cruz, you can travel from the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary to the Redwoods without a car. Are there a lot of must dos in Santa Cruz? It also offers easy access to the beach as well as many of Santa Cruzs most famous attractions and landmarks. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. View details, map and photos of this residential lots property with 0 bedrooms and 0 total baths. Midtown is an eclectic neighbourhood located east of the city centre. Breakfast options. 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. We like the dining scene a lot more in Monterey-Carmel, but inexpensive eats are easier to find in Santa Cruz. Santa Cruzs downtown district is also where youll find the local arts scene. This is a much nicer route than I-5, which is really boring. Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf are touristy, but downtown isn't really - they are all close together though. For a vacation rental option, try this South Lake Union condo near the Space Needle ( from $160/night ). Feast on fresh and delicious seafood and more at Stagnaro Bros. Go for a stroll along the Santa Cruz Wharf and spot local wildlife like sea lions, whales, birds and more. The downtown areass of Monterey and Carmel are nicer. World Nomads mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. The reviews on Tripadvisor are not encouraging. In this Santa Cruz neighbourhood guide, well look at the best places to stay based on what you want to do. We also like pit stops - a couple things we were looking at to pit stop are Hearst Castle, Madonna Inn. Twin Lakes Beach is a good one. With the ages of your children, I highly suggest Santa Cruz, due to the amusement park right on the beach, the beach itself and the cute shops on the wharf. Traffic is nothing like what you find in the big city (except during events like Car Week). They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently. IMO, Carmel/Pacific Grove is MUCH more attractive and interesting than Santa Cruz. In Santa Cruz County, the fun only begins at the beach. I would hang around Morro Bay for some water activity and marine mammal observation. Also be aware that Highway 1 between (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Then you head inland a bit, still scenic though, and meet back up with the coast later. Both are good choices. Wake up early and enjoy the beautiful view of the sea, beach and wharf right from your window. Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. In August they have Art & Jazz @ the beach on Sunday afternoons and Twilight Concerts on Wednesday evenings. This is north of the Boardwalk area. During the summer the surf on Carmel city beach is relatively tame, and people do play in the water, but not without some risk. Th most breathtaking of Highway 1 is when you leave the Cambria area for the next 2hours. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63171502', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, an old fashioned, classy amusement park 101 years old, and a steam train, Roaring Camp and Big Trees Railroad, near Henry Cowell ,which makes trips up the hill through redwoods, as well as making trips into town to the Boardwalk. As a matter of fact I purchased the ProShow Gold DVD slideshow software and made a 35 min show with music and gave to my kids on Xmas. Environmental activist Dan Haifley argues that Monterey Bay residents should care about and support the potential designation of tribally nominated Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary, covering waters off San Luis Obispo and northern Santa Barbara counties. I'll also say that Monterey is nice if you're traveling with kids because of the Aquarium and the really cool Dennis the Menace playground, both of which we visited with our then 18-month-old son. Monterey is more coastal than beachy, if that makes sense. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Take State Park Drive from Hwy 1. Are there a lot of must dos in Santa Cruz? Hi - I'm traveling to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? If you have a map, start at the San Lorenzo River and go south the the Yacht Harbor. Flora Vista Inn is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. I would also suggest a visit to the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It is comprised of 16 modern rooms with an excellent array of amenities and features. Take the second exit out of the roundabout, and follow the signs to Pebble Beach. The beautiful interior design will make you feel comfortable and at home. We have been to several large aquariums over the years just not that one. For things to see on the Monterey Peninsula see https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g580824-Activities-Monterey_Peninsula_California.html The Santa Cruz area includes the towns of Santa Cruz, Aptos, Capitola, and Soquel. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. This charming hotel is an excellent place to make your base in Capitola because there are plenty of shopping, dining and nightlife options nearby. I concur with november moon. 831-372 . If looking at sea life excites you, you must visit the ocean-view decks to spot humpback whales. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-109324334', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey Bay Aquarium. Monterey is best for families and budget-conscious travellers, while Carmel is best for couples, foodies and shoppers. Santa Cruz is one of Californias best-kept secrets. Why is Santa Cruz warmer than Monterey? It has the most cultural attractions in Santa Cruz and loads of cool places to check out. Rooms are well-equipped with a kitchenette and guests can enjoy on-demand movies and a spa bathtub. A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic booooring. Monterey has more wildlife-focused sites to visit. For things to see on the Monterey Peninsula see, https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g580824-Activities-Monterey_Peninsula_California.html, Santa Cruz is focused more on the Boardwalk or to go see Henry Cowell Redwoods.it also has the ocean, surfing, and a winery section (not as nice as Carmel or Carmel Valley but enough wineries to enjoy in a ery short visit.). Driving the coast from SF to LA. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to. I would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. It has 63 spacious rooms, free wifi and an outdoor pool. Half Moon Bay. It's myself and my husband and we are going the first week in May. The Midtown/Seabright neighbourhood is packed with bustling bars and buzzing breweries where you can enjoy a laidback drink or two. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77301030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Santa Cruz! Hwy 101 is nicely scenic though too. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Its just that easy. Thanks to yall we decided to spend the first two days in SF, then two days in Santa Cruz & visit Carmel during our stay if we need a change of scenery and then back to SF on Friday (since we fly out saturday morning we figured we might as well be closer to the airport). 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. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Your email address will not be published. Want to be featured in our list? Flexible booking options on most hotels. It's among the best places to stay in Monterey, CA. Capitola is a beachside neighbourhood bursting with a European flair. Yes, finding a room which would hold a family of 6 is definitely a problem. In addition, between Monterey and Santa Cruz, you should visit Elkhorn Slough, where you can either rent kayahs or take a 'safari' boat trip out into the slough to see the vast amount of sea life. And it is farther from stuff. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? There are beaches, but the coastline is more rocky, which is beautiful and means that you have more opportunity to see sea animals. Want more deetz on why we love itso damn much? 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) I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpackers. We're adjacent to Watsonville Municipal Airport, just minutes from Sunset State Beach and nearby golf courses, wineries and wildlife preserves. Walking distance from the famous pier but you can rent bikes form them as well. Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market andditch the plastic. I don't know Santa Cruz beaches well enough to speak with authority, but Monterey Peninsula area beaches aren't especially safe for swimming. Get excited here are our best recommendations for where to stay in Santa Cruz, California, USA. To find warm water beaches in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? If youre still not sure where to stay in Santa Cruz, consider checking out these amazing treehouses in California! If not, may I suggest another helping of Wallace Baine? Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. Youre connected. Our top pick for where to stay in Santa Cruz for nightlife, this area is bursting with bars, restaurants and clubs where you can enjoy plenty of after-dark fun. Each room comes complete with a minibar, kitchenette and wireless internet access. 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. 2. Carmel, Pacific Grove, and Monterey are adjacent to one another.Santa Cruz would be further north. If you are coming by Air or Train, San Jose is the best destination. Founded on June 3, 1770, it was the capital of Alta California under both Spain and Mexico. This charming Inn is centrally located in Santa Cruz. Thanks everyone for the tips and recommendations. The beach at Capitola Village is good - there are a lot of shops and restaurants just off the beach, so that can be fun. Monterey has a temperate climate, with a short, intense rainy season. This room allows you to have a great home while not having to empty your bank account completely. Is Santa Cruz safe? 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. Should we. 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. I second the idea of overnighting in Santa Barbara, perhaps taking in Solvang en route. This hotel has 49 cosy, clean and comfortable rooms. Santa Cruz does have a scenic ocean area like Monterey and Carmel. Of course, Henry Cowell state park is closer to Santa Cruz, so SC would be more convenient for that. Find your new favourite book at the legendary Bookshop Santa Cruz. 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. All rights reserved. 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. More than 200 films have been shot in Monterey County, and it's now home to HBO's acclaimed Big Little Lies. There may be homeless, but they are everywhere now. What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? So its up to you what you want to do. ISO Ocean front rental or hotel in the Monterey area. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. From Monterey to Santa Cruz expect a slow down through Moss Landing. We love Capitola. Note that nightlife is laregely confined to weekends in Santa Cruz. Aptos is a serene and stunning neighbourhood located just east of Santa Cruz. I think between (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It is worth a half day plus to go to Monterey, see the acquarium, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Monterey or Carmel to Big Sur The best place to stay if embarking upon a Big Sur day trip is Carmel or Monterey. It has a eucalyptus grove where Monarch butterflies stay over the winter when they are migrating. Its fun and your younger kids would probably love it. Heres what people usually ask us about the areas of Santa Cruz and where to stay. However, for stretches of Big Sur, most accommodations while beautiful are few and expensive. With over 14 state parks, wineries, museums, farmer's markets, surfing, shopping, and family fun activities, there are plenty of things to do. And it is farther from stuff. 5:52 pm Paso Robles eat at Niner Wine Estates stay overnight at Summerwood Winery and Inn It is world class. Walk the tiny .6-mile-long . The room is spacious, with a comfy bed and has a private bathroom. Convenient private room is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. Browse the tiny but interesting Aptos History Museum. If you do choose to spend the night in Santa Cruz, then you can see Monterey on your way to Big Sur. And let us not overlook Ostrichland in Buellton. I would take Hwy 101 north to San Luis Obispo and pick up Hwy 1 there. 10:47 am Monterey stay for about 4 hours and leave at 2:47 pm drive for about 1 hour. However, just to confuse things I believe that they have merged the two into "Twin Lakes State Beach". These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Santa Cruz. Delve deep into the history of the neighbourhood and region at the Capitola Historical Museum. Re: Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Casablanca On The Beach 101 Main St, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060 Fully refundable Reserve now, pay when you stay $144 per night Mar 5 - Mar 6 1.01 mi from city center 8.4/5 (810 reviews) N reason to go anywhere else. My website describes local beaches in further detail: http://www.montereypeninsula.info/guide/beaches.htm. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77278932', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Carmel and point Lobos and Pacific grove and Monterey and Elkhorn Slough there is a lot on the peninsula, And between SC and its burbs and redwood parks and the state parks and downtown SC one can easily spend a few days in SC, Do keep an eye on the big Sur fire around the end of this month. Comfortable, big and close to the beach this family Airbnb is perfect for holidays together. Day 1: San Francisco to Monterey Be sure to spend some time in San Fran before you leave! 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. It was incredible. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to SF. Twin Lakes Beach is a good one. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77290577', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey and Santa Cruz gets a lot of traffic especially on weekends. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Eat incredible and fresh seafood, pasta and more at Caf Rio. It can be a good idea to take the PCH on the way to Monterey and take the quicker route along the US-101 Freeway. Browse the buzzing Sunday Art & Music at the Beach events throughout the summer. These are our 3 favourite hotels in Santa Cruz: Rio Vista Inn & Suites Comfort Inn Boardwalk Hyatt Place Santa Cruz. Situated south of Downtown, the Boardwalk spans the seaside and is home to buzzing attractions, busy restaurants, and cosy cafes. A big construction project is starting on the bridge over the Santa Cruz harbor in September. What is the makeup of your party? Theres also a laundry service and pool on-site. We know about the road - we are going go around the long way to Paso Robles to miss the construction.. From here, head up H-17 toward Felton for your first stop at Roaring Camp Railroads.Catch the steam train for an unforgettable ride through the magnificent redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains until you reach the end of the line at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. 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. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77302454', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Carmel is, they roll up the sidewalks at 6pm ;-) so if you want any kind of nightlife other than a nice dinner out and perhaps drinks at a quiet bar, Monterey or Santa Cruz will be a better choice. Another good beach is Seacliff State Beach in Aptos. Thanks all! Sip drinks and enjoy cheap bars games at lively One Double Oh Seven Club. It is world class. Enjoy delicious food and drinks at Red Restaurant and Bar. You can find great Airbnbs like Seacliff House. Santa Cruzs Boardwalk neighbourhood is one of the liveliest and most vibrant districts in the city. This article was written by travellers for travellers. I hear the beaches there are nice so we're considering Twin Lakes State Beach & Manresa. Photos and Property Details for 1190 WARREN DR, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060. Princess or sanctuary cruises (Whale watching). . Your email address will not be published. And oftentimes good food in that range. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. Downtown Santa Cruz is the best neighbourhood in Santa Crus to stay in if youre visiting for the first time. Since (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Thanks! That is, as long as you don't get stuck in traffic. It is a large area comprised of three main neighbourhoods Seacliff, Rio Del Mar and La Selva and is a great place to stay if youre looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the Boardwalk. We took 101 from LA to Canbria and it was just a gorgeous drive..I wouldn't have imagined that. Its always been a big hit with the kids in our family. Required fields are marked *. This is the best hostel in Santa Cruz. You'll enjoy a meal of shrimp, oysters and clam chowder after your day in the town or hunting for killer whales and dolphin pods while sailing the pacific. There are several Best Westerns in town. Get answers to your questions about Monterey, Monterey Peninsula Trip Report w/photos. Enjoy an awesome meal with a great view at Sanderlings Restaurant. Once you hit Ventura, then you'll be on the coast through Santa Barbara. This historic motel in Santa Cruz is one of the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. Keep in mind that as beautiful as (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Best 3-Star/4-Star Hotels in Monterey. We saw the Hearst Castle. Theres also a large, fully-stocked kitchen. The town has lots of motels which can sometimes help save on cost (depends when you go as summer is still high in this area as well). There is a coastal recreation trail that runs through Monterey and Pacific Grove that is great for viewing the coastline and watching for sea mammals. Even at its warmest, the ocean along the California coast remains cool compared to beaches in the tropics or even Florida. Our Trip started in Santa Monica ending in SF. Satisfy your sweet tooth with delicious salt-water taffy. So since it sounds like you are heading on your trip at the end of August, please be aware that there is the Soberanes fire burning in Big Sur and it is not expected to be fully contained until the end of the month. Take that one, as its beautiful and different from Highway 1. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to SF. Santa Cruz is more of a classic CA beach town with a surf culture and an eclectic downtown. Santa Cruz is more beachy - lots of wide, sandy beaches, a good surf culture, historic seaside amusement park, eclectic downtown, etc. Even if your kids don''t surf, it is fascinating to watch tht surfers from the bluff. Theres also an outdoor swimming pool and a Jacuzzi. The main beach is right off the Boardwalk and next to the wharf - this will be the most crowded, but it has the Boardwalk there, so a lot of fun. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-41178035', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');California beaches are hot and sunny all the time.

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