Our home offers a view of the entire Monterey Bay and sits atop a hilltop with lots of privacy. Highway 1 is washed out and closed. It has pristine beaches and a laid back atmosphere, while also boasting incredible food, lively nightlife and lush natural surroundings. Again, thank you! Should we. Flora Vista Inn is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. Monterey is more coastal and less beachy. Located just off Highway 1 between Santa Cruz and Monterey, our pet-friendly Comfort Inn hotel offers easy access to many attractions in the Monterey Bay area. Have a fun trip! The coastline is rockier and generally more scenic, and although there are some beaches, Monterey isn't really a beach town - its focus is more on sailing/boating, fishing, and marine life. It is centrally located and within walking distance of the beach. Once you hit Ventura, then you'll be on the coast through Santa Barbara. I always put up overflow family at the Holiday Inn Express during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Privacy can be the best cure for a hangover, which is why we chose this Airbnb for all of the nightlife enthusiasts. It's possible to stay anywhere in the area and get to everything else fairly fast. If approved by the National Ocean and Atmospheric Association, the new sanctuary will provide the missing link in a chain of . The Midtown/Seabright neighbourhood is packed with bustling bars and buzzing breweries where you can enjoy a laidback drink or two. 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. Right now Highway 1 isn't passable through the Big Sur area due to a road wash out. It also offers easy access to the beach as well as many of Santa Cruzs most famous attractions and landmarks. 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. 1. Inspirational places to stay near beaches, redwood forests or in quaint seaside towns offer an array of choices when it comes to amenities and settings. Re: Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? What is your lodging budget? 2023, The Broke Backpacker. 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. Reserve now, pay when you stay. 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. There are several Best Westerns in town. 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. Earn free nights and get our Price Guarantee - booking has never been easier on Hotels.com! ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172993', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nepenthe. What is your next planned stop and how many days/nights total do you have for the coastal section of your trip? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63170412', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');California early next August. It is especially good if this is your first time visiting. This is our first trip alone in quite a few years & I want it be fun, romantic & relaxing! Eat an amazing meal at Hindquarter Bar & Grill. Both are great. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Its a great place to watch surfers. Tucked throughout the neighbourhood are a good variety of galleries and shops that showcase the excellent works of local artists, musicians, actors and writers. Walking distance from the famous pier but you can rent bikes form them as well. And let us not overlook Ostrichland in Buellton. If you do choose to spend the night in Santa Cruz, then you can see Monterey on your way to Big Sur. Both areas have a lot to do. Thanks! It has large rooms with air conditioning, private bathroom and contemporary amenities. Carmel is next to Monterey, which is a quaint upscale village with plenty of nice restaurants, boutiques, and tasting rooms. We arrive Monday afternoon and leave Saturday morning out of the San Francisco airport. A great way to access transportation options in Santa Cruz is to visit www.Cruz511.org. In Santa Cruz, I have it tentatively narrowed down to the Holiday Inn Express or the Best Western. And oftentimes good food in that range. Delve deep into history at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. If you choose Santa Cruz, check rates at the Dream Inn or Sea and Sand. I will definitely check into the train ride. Pop by the La Selva Library, which regularly hosts family-friendly events. Santa Cruz is more beachy - lots of wide, sandy beaches, a good surf culture, historic seaside amusement park, eclectic downtown, etc. 126 216 r/travel Join 8 days ago There are no "hippies". One of the coolest places to stay in Santa Cruz, Capitola is packed with incredible things to see and explore. Note that nightlife is laregely confined to weekends in Santa Cruz. Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Cruz, an IHG Hotel. There is a good and informative visitor center and some great tide pools. Thanks SO much :). The downtown area of Santa Cruz is a bit funky but fun., I did see a person who was a street person once there with a backpacking cat. Monterey. Theres also complimentary wifi. Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! In short, Santa Cruz is without a doubt one of California's best-kept secrets. The wharf and cannery row are more prominent in Monterey, and the aquarium is a big draw. Take that one, as its beautiful and different from Highway 1. Which is exactly why I put together this guide to the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. Youll find plenty of bars, shops, restaurants, and the beach is within walking distance. 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. Theres also a large, fully-stocked kitchen. Yes, finding a room which would hold a family of 6 is definitely a problem. Hwy 101 is nicely scenic though too. It is the bordering town to Monterey. I have the time but worry about the length of the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Another excellent option is the Rio Vista Inn & Suites Santa Cruz. We also like pit stops - a couple things we were looking at to pit stop are Hearst Castle, Madonna Inn. Sip seaside cocktails at Bay Bar and Grill. What do you think? Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. Home; For Rent. It has pristine beaches and a laid back atmosphere, while also boasting incredible food, lively nightlife and lush natural surroundings. I think the decision really depends on what you want to do and see and your overall plan. I don't know Santa Cruz beaches well enough to speak with authority, but Monterey Peninsula area beaches aren't especially safe for swimming. The best one is the Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, further down on Ocean Street. Monterey, which is further north of Big Sur, is located no more than 1-1.5 hours away from most of the attractions that we recommend seeing on a Big Sur itinerary. Poor second cousin (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Monterey is more coastal than beachy, if that makes sense. 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. We spend a lot of time in the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Pacific Grove is a really cute town right in between with bunches of Bed and Breakfasts. One night in each is a lot of moving without covering much distance. It has a eucalyptus grove where Monarch butterflies stay over the winter when they are migrating. It is ideally located at the heart of the city and is a quick walk to the restaurants, Santa Cruz attractions and bars of the Downtown, the Boardwalk and Midtown neighbourhoods. Keep in mind that as beautiful as (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Hi - I'm traveling to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. Try to help and people have to go on a rant. Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Roaring Camp Railroads, the Santa Cruz Wharf, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, and other . The Comfort Inn is centrally located near the Boardwalk, one of the best areas to stay in Santa Cruz. 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 has 63 spacious rooms, free wifi and an outdoor pool. The first class of the University of Santa Cruz campus in 1965 appeared in chinos and skirts and cashmere sweaters. From Monterey to Santa Cruz expect a slow down through Moss Landing. We are even usually warmer that Pismo Beach because our beaches face south. Here youll find a vast array of independent boutiques, delicious restaurants, charming inns and lively bars. Don't stay at any with "Boardwalk" in the name.. I would also suggest a visit to the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Compare 580 hotels in Santa Cruz using 17,179 real guest reviews. Day 1: San Francisco to Monterey Be sure to spend some time in San Fran before you leave! Listen to live music at the Kuumbwa Jazz Centre. We have two girls, 15 and 10 and are an active family and love adventure, the beach, amusement parks and nature. Monterey is more coastal - there are some beaches too, but the coastline is rocky so the focus is more on scenery and wildlife. 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 can't tell you the length of time from Cambria to Santa Cruz as we stopped along the way for pics and had lunch at (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It's beautiful there and lots of things to see and do beyond the aquarium. Take that one, as its beautiful and different from Highway 1. I'd love to see that hippie vibe back in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 1 big room with queen bed and a futon in the living room that turns into a bed. Don't stay at any with "Boardwalk" in the name.. With all of the educational institutions we have, it has an international feel to it, and many good restaurants. Th most breathtaking of Highway 1 is when you leave the Cambria area for the next 2hours. We were planning to stay in Monterey one night. There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? Even if your kids don''t surf, it is fascinating to watch tht surfers from the bluff. 2. We were in CA last June and stayed in Santa Cruz, and visited the Aquarium. 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) The other difference between the areas you mention is that Carmel is higher-end real estate. Our Trip started in Santa Monica ending in SF. Grab a drink at the Asti, an old-school dive bar. It has the most cultural attractions in Santa Cruz and loads of cool places to check out. I've just now been informed that the beach isn't really safe to swim in. We saw the Hearst Castle. Many have recommended that we visit Carmel Beach to see all of it's beauty and enjoy the beach. Your email address will not be published. What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? Rooms come complete with A/C and include refrigerators. I am considering whale watching and hiking in the Henry Cowell Redwood park among other things. Its kind of a funky sort of place, a bit off-beat. Santa Cruz and its neighboring towns stretch along 6 miles at the northern edge of the Monterey Bay. Monterey is 8.8\% less expensive than Santa Cruz. Address: 652 Cannery Row, Monterey City Center, Monterey (CA), United States, 93940. Take the second exit out of the roundabout, and follow the signs to Pebble Beach. 7. Stay in Monterey or Carmel. Monterey or Santa Cruz. It really just depends on what you are looking for. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. Natural Bridges and other beach parks. I would also use this term to describe the Haight Ashbury neighborhood generically. Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Our Trip started in Santa Monica ending in SF. Get answers to your questions about Monterey, Monterey Peninsula Trip Report w/photos. 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. It has a great central location and is within walking distance of bars, bistros and the beach. Take State Park Drive from Hwy 1. Los Angeles to Monterey via Hwy 101/1 - concerns Best places to eat in Monterey and or Carmel area, Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel. Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market andditch the plastic. And conversely, if you choose to stay in Monterey, you can see SC on the way there. 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. ISO Ocean front rental or hotel in the Monterey area. Thank you so much for the advice, I think my kids will probably be ready for more beach and less scenery so we will stay in Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz is more of a beachy town with lots of wide, sandy beaches, the Boardwalk amusement park, an eclectic downtown, strong surfing culture. Is Santa Cruz safe? It is a really vibrant and colourful area of Santa Barbara, and it reallys really unique. (the aquarium sounds amazing). 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. Instead, buy an eSIM! Both are stunningly beautiful, but the city beach is safer than the River beach. Also we are 25 & 26 and are not big wine drinkers. In this guide, weve looked at the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. You won't regret it. See the ruins of the S.S. Palo Alto Concrete Ship. There is one near the Holiday Inn Express, which is on Ocean Street which leads into town and one at the Boardwalk. In short, Santa Cruz is without a doubt one of Californias best-kept secrets. This excellent three-star hotel is set in central Midtown, one of the best places in Santa Cruz to stay for nightlife. Escape the crowds at artsy and secluded Capitola Beach. It is comprised of 16 modern rooms with an excellent array of amenities and features. My boyfriend & I are planning a trip to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. You didn't ask this, but because San Simeon and Morro Bay are so close to Paso Robles and then not all that far from Pismo Beach, I'd probably opt for 2 nights in either Paso Robles or Pismo Beach instead of a single night each in Paso, San Simeon/Morro Bay, and Pismo Beach. Get an early start to the day with a delightful breakfast at Bill's Caf in charming Willow Glen before hitting the road. Twin Lakes Beach is a good one. See a show at the intimate and awesome Rio Theatre. Downtown Santa Cruz is the best neighbourhood in Santa Crus to stay in if youre visiting for the first time. You could also visit nearby Carmel which is one of our favorite towns on the CA coast. Although it might be a little more upmarket compared to other areas of Santa Cruz, trust me when I say, it worth the splurge! Weve tested countless packs over the years, and now weve found our absolute favourite: the nomad-approved Nomatic Travel Bag. It was incredible. Yall are great! Even if your kids don''t surf, it is fascinating to watch tht surfers from the bluff. 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. I have lived through this, having moved here in 1970 and been involved in the University and I am very tired of hearing Santa Cruz described as having a "hippie vibe", C'mon, you guys. You can pretty much expect all indoor attractions to be closed until conditions improve markedly. Enjoy delicious food and drinks at Red Restaurant and Bar. We like the dining scene a lot more in Monterey-Carmel, but inexpensive eats are easier to find in Santa Cruz. As to which town, I prefer Santa Cruz, but I think Monterey has better restaurants. We stayed in Cambria overnight, it took about 4hours to get there. Of course, Henry Cowell state park is closer to Santa Cruz, so SC would be more convenient for that. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Looking for a specific place to stay? Twin Lakes is the next beach, just on the other side of the harbor. The Municipal Wharf is near the Boardwalk and Stagnaro Bros. takes boats out on the Bay for whale watching. Visiting the coolest area of Santa Cruz requires staying at an even cooler place. Surf City Inn & Suites 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-77290577', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey and Santa Cruz gets a lot of traffic especially on weekends.
should i stay in monterey or santa cruz?