Dig into an amazing meal any time of day at Ideal Bar & Grill. Answer 1 of 19: Driving the coast from SF to LA. Also, can any give me some input on hwy1 from LA up to San Simeon. 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. Why is Santa Cruz warmer than Monterey? We really appreciate & are super excited about our adventure! This excellent three-star hotel is set in central Midtown, one of the best places in Santa Cruz to stay for nightlife. With over 14 state parks, wineries, museums, farmer's markets, surfing, shopping, and family fun activities, there are plenty of things to do. Santa Cruz does have a scenic ocean area like Monterey and Carmel. The best one is the Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, further down on Ocean Street. Each room comes complete with a minibar, kitchenette and wireless internet access. 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. Flora Vista Inn is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. You also have the Boardwalk, which is a seaside amusement park - rides, including an historic wooden roller coaster, games, waffle cones. We spend a lot of time in the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Mornings going north, afternoon going south. I think my kids would love it. I would take Hwy 101 north to San Luis Obispo and pick up Hwy 1 there. 17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Santa Cruz Although it might be a little more upmarket compared to other areas of Santa Cruz, trust me when I say, it worth the splurge! Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor If youre not sure which is right for you, here is a quick recap of our favourite Santa Cruz accommodation options: HI-Santa Cruz Hostel is the best hostel in the city. Comfort Inn - Watsonville CA Hotel - Book Today! You might want to consider two adjoining rooms. Road Trip from Santa Barbara to San Francisco - LazyTrips We've also never been to Cali if that makes a difference. There are no "hippies". 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. To find warm water beaches in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It is worth a half day plus to go to Monterey, see the acquarium, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Santa Cruz Island to Monterey - 8 ways to travel via train - Rome2rio Santa Cruz is more of a classic CA beach town with a surf culture and an eclectic downtown. 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. It is centrally located and within walking distance of the beach. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Morning Lookout: A local view of Iran uprising, UCSC's 'Grad Slam' and 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. I second the idea of overnighting in Santa Barbara, perhaps taking in Solvang en route. Both places are fun and beautiful with a lot to see! In August they have Art & Jazz @ the beach on Sunday afternoons and Twilight Concerts on Wednesday evenings. Another good beach is Seacliff State Beach in Aptos. 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. Monterey is best for families and budget-conscious travellers, while Carmel is best for couples, foodies and shoppers. Thank you for your input. What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? Now I'm hearing all of this great stuff about Monterey Bay also. Satisfy your sweet tooth with delicious salt-water taffy. The Midtown/Seabright neighbourhood is packed with bustling bars and buzzing breweries where you can enjoy a laidback drink or two. Monterey has more wildlife-focused sites to visit. Natural Bridges and other beach parks. We are even usually warmer that Pismo Beach because our beaches face south. ), Bougie-coffee lover and staunch enemy of coriander; TEFL-certified language teacher, linguist, and aspiring polyglot. WHERE TO STAY in MONTEREY - Best Areas & Neighborhoods - Santorini Dave We stayed in Cambria overnight, it took about 4hours to get there. This delightful hotel is one of the best places in Santa Cruz to stay in because it has a great central location. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. 4:02 pm King City (California) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:02 pm drive for about 50 minutes. Midtown is an eclectic neighbourhood located east of the city centre. Downtown Santa Cruz is the best neighbourhood in Santa Crus to stay in if youre visiting for the first time. Should I drive hwy 1 that part of the journey? 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. 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. Of course, Henry Cowell state park is closer to Santa Cruz, so SC would be more convenient for that. Do check that the Boardwalk is open when you are there as the hours are starting to be shorter as schools are starting to go back into session. 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. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Highway 1 through Santa Cruz has a lot of traffic in mornings and after 3. Carmel has some very nice places to stay. Capitola is a beachside neighbourhood bursting with a European flair. There may be homeless, but they are everywhere now. Forecasts the expected snowfall amount, snow accumulation, and with snowfall radar. 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. The seaside town of Santa Cruz is one of the coolest places in California. 831-372 . 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. It offers easy access throughout the neighbourhood and is close to restaurants, the beach and bars. Youll find plenty of bars, shops, restaurants, and the beach is within walking distance. 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. We arrive Monday afternoon and leave Saturday morning out of the San Francisco airport. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. I know because I know a lot of them personally, I am always astounded when people still say that Santa Cruz has a 'hippie vibe."downtown. The Comfort Inn hotel in Watsonville, CA is near Capitola Beach, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay Aquarium offering free hot breakfast & more! 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. Get complete property information, maps, street view, schools, walk score and more. Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California - Located deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains, it is California's oldest state park. I always put up overflow family at the Holiday Inn Express during Thanksgiving and Christmas. 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. Try to help and people have to go on a rant. Its a great place to watch surfers. There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. 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-63172993', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nepenthe. The Municipal Wharf is near the Boardwalk and Stagnaro Bros. takes boats out on the Bay for whale watching. 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. The Comfort Inn is centrally located near the Boardwalk, one of the best areas to stay in Santa Cruz. Edited: 01 June . 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). 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. What do you think? East of the city centre is the Midtown/Seabright neighbourhood. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to. If live music is more your thing, Midtown is also where youll find a great selection of concert halls and karaoke parlours, open mic nights and street-side buskers. Answer 11 of 17: We (myself & two young sons) are making our way up from LA to San Francisco next month & want to spend a night in either Monterey or Santa Cruz. My biggest problem is finding rooms that accommodate 6. This nature-rich . Grab a drink, enjoy the incredible beaches and laid-back vibes. See the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row, visit the sandy beaches of Half Moon Bay, and take some time to explore Santa Cruz or Pebble Beach. The Rio Vista Inn is our favourite hotel in Santa Cruz. The Vagabond's House Hotel Abrego Tradewinds Carmel Spindrift Inn Cypress Inn Tickle Pink Inn. I would choose one location and spend 2 nights. 400 plus pictures, but I digress. For things to see on the Monterey Peninsula see https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g580824-Activities-Monterey_Peninsula_California.html Thanks SO much :). Instead, buy an eSIM! Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Cruz, an IHG Hotel. Spend another night closer to Santa Barbara. (the aquarium sounds amazing). Eat incredible and fresh seafood, pasta and more at Caf Rio. 2023, The Broke Backpacker. Best 3-Star/4-Star Hotels in Monterey. They are located at opposite ends of the same bay, so the area for whale watching is pretty much the same from either town. And let us not overlook Ostrichland in Buellton. Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? Browse the buzzing Sunday Art & Music at the Beach events throughout the summer. Itinerary. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. 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. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car ride. 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). Not only will you find the citys only hostel here, but this neighbourhood is packed with delicious cheap eats and inexpensive activities to enjoy. Where To Stay In Monterey, California: 15 Great | Trip101 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. Also, I'm thinking of staying at the Best Western in Morro Bay. Inside its quaint Victorian facade lie 69 well-appointed rooms, some of which are pet-friendly, too. When you're ready to start your road trip, head to Lands End then drive south along the coast. If approved by the National Ocean and Atmospheric Association, the new sanctuary will provide the missing link in a chain of . I would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. How to Find the Perfect Place to Stay in Santa Cruz, California Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? All rights reserved. Have a fun trip! The aquarium in Monterey is VERY worth going to. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-41178810', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');California you have to be south of Point Conception, which is just north of Santa Barbara. When we vacation, we hike, bike, kayak, surf, horse-back rideyou get the idea. Delve deep into the history of the neighbourhood and region at the Capitola Historical Museum. It has a great central location and is close to restaurants, shops, the beach and more. The downtown areass of Monterey and Carmel are nicer. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Eat an amazing meal at Hindquarter Bar & Grill. MUST READ: Where to Stay in Monterey (2022 Guide) - The Broke Backpacker Have a fun trip! Are there a lot of must dos in Santa Cruz? Stay in Monterey or Carmel. Monterey is 8.8\% less expensive than Santa Cruz. It is one of the most . Posted 2:23:02 AM. You can pretty much expect all indoor attractions to be closed until conditions improve markedly. Stay the night in Carmel or Monterey and leave early for Big Sur. We have been to several large aquariums over the years just not that one. Explore the streets, shops and bars of colourful Capitola Village. I would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. We saw the Hearst Castle. We took 101 from LA to Canbria and it was just a gorgeous drive..I wouldn't have imagined that. Set at the heart of the city, this hotel is a short walk to great dining, nightlife, shopping and sightseeing options. The Ultimate Big Sur Day Trip Itinerary Cheer on the D-League Santa Cruz Warriors or the Santa Cruz Derby Girls at the Kaiser Permanent Area. I would also suggest a visit to the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Looking for a specific place to stay? We also like pit stops - a couple things we were looking at to pit stop are Hearst Castle, Madonna Inn. Best deals for Monterey Bay Aquarium tickets? Take a photo at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay for some great memories without a hefty price tag. Poor second cousin (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? I've put together a San Francisco city guide to give you some ideas. 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. Located in the best position, you wont have to walk far to the main hotspots youll definitely enjoy your time at this place. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Take that one, as its beautiful and different from Highway 1. Road Trip: Where to stay Monterey or Santa Cruz? - Tripadvisor We stayed in Cambria overnight, it took about 4hours to get there. Aptos is our top pick for families. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. 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. Monterey Tourism Monterey Hotels Monterey Guest House Monterey Holiday Homes Monterey Holiday Packages Monterey Flights . California Coast: Santa Cruz to Monterey | US Hiking tours - Macs Adventure A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic booooring. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63170412', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');California early next August. 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. Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor I have the time but worry about the length of the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? I will definitely check into the train ride. Monterey. Your email address will not be published. Wake up early and enjoy the beautiful view of the sea, beach and wharf right from your window. Right now, It's all a bit overwhelming so if anyone could help me figure out what's best I would really really appreciate it! From $113.05 per night. This charming hotel is one of our top picks for where to stay in Santa Cruz with kids if youre on a budget. Thank you for your input. Catch a show at Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. View details, map and photos of this residential lots property with 0 bedrooms and 0 total baths. We know about the road - we are going go around the long way to Paso Robles to miss the construction.. Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market andditch the plastic. Yes, finding a room which would hold a family of 6 is definitely a problem. Another consideration is your overall plan - how many nights do you have for your drive down the coast? It is comprised of 16 modern rooms with an excellent array of amenities and features. It is only a few years old and is a very nice hotel. Browse the tiny but interesting Aptos History Museum. 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. Splash, swim and play at Rio del Mar beach. 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). $209. Tucked throughout the neighbourhood are a good variety of galleries and shops that showcase the excellent works of local artists, musicians, actors and writers. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Guests can enjoy a variety of on-site amenities, like a swimming pool and free wifi. We have interest in outdoor eating, swimming/lounging on the beach, live music and natures beauty (but we're not huge hikers or anything). That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). And yes, the water is cold. This stunning three-star property is ideally located in La Selva Beach. There is one near the Holiday Inn Express, which is on Ocean Street which leads into town and one at the Boardwalk. The Broke Backpacker's Head of Administration, Art hails from North Florida where the elevation fails to reach even 5 meters. It is conveniently located near the Boardwalk and there are plenty of shops, restaurants and bars within walking distance. It is comprised of 16 modern rooms with an excellent array of amenities and features. 126 216 r/travel Join 8 days ago Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Message Board - Tripadvisor My home beach is Seabright, which is just over the river. It is especially good if this is your first time visiting. 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. This unit was designed and built by an architect who has a great eye for style and detail. See a show at the intimate and awesome Rio Theatre. I find people to be friendly, generally. Your laptop deserves a proper pack, and we know a good few! Highway 1 Gate: This 17-Mile Drive entrance is off of exit 399A. If you choose Santa Cruz, check rates at the Dream Inn or Sea and Sand. 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. Both are great. More information. 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 ? In Santa Cruz County, the fun only begins at the beach. Sip a glass of wine aboard the Chardonnay II. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. Like Kibblesmom said, they are only 45 minutes apart. Hwy 101 is nicely scenic though too. Top Hotels in Santa Cruz, CA - Cancel FREE on most hotels | Hotels.com ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63170412', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');California early next August. Home [ksco.com] More posts you may like r/travel Join 9 days ago What are some unique activities that you think are worth traveling for? Santa Cruz is one of Californias best-kept secrets. HI-Santa Cruz Hostel is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. I am considering whale watching and hiking in the Henry Cowell Redwood park among other things. Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. If you have a map, start at the San Lorenzo River and go south the the Yacht Harbor. 1. Twin Lakes is the next beach, just on the other side of the harbor. Then you head inland a bit, still scenic though, and meet back up with the coast later. 7.7 Good 206 reviews. One night in each is a lot of moving without covering much distance. 400 plus pictures, but I digress. Want to be featured in our list? Monterey, Carmel or Santa Cruz - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums The earliest known filming took place in Monterey in 1897, compared to Santa Cruz's first foray into film in 1915. I live downtown and walk Pacific Avenue regularly. There are beaches, but the coastline is more rocky, which is beautiful and means that you have more opportunity to see sea animals. Our home offers a view of the entire Monterey Bay and sits atop a hilltop with lots of privacy. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to SF. Stay in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? - Santa Cruz Forum - Tripadvisor Get excited here are our best recommendations for where to stay in Santa Cruz, California, USA. Located in Santa Cruz, California, 10 minutes from Lighthouse Field State Beach, this hotel features an outdoor pool, a sauna, and bright, contemporary rooms with a 42-inch flat-screen TV. Also be aware that Highway 1 between (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Many have recommended that we visit Carmel Beach to see all of it's beauty and enjoy the beach. 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. Set in central California, Santa Cruz is the epitome of west coast cool. However, just to confuse things I believe that they have merged the two into "Twin Lakes State Beach". I would also use this term to describe the Haight Ashbury neighborhood generically. Watch Sunsets of the Monterey Bay From a Hilltop Villa Photos and Property Details for 1190 WARREN DR, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060. Is your phone eSIM ready? Don't know if your kids would be that interested in that, mine were 20 and 17 so it was different for us. Even at its warmest, the ocean along the California coast remains cool compared to beaches in the tropics or even Florida. The Monerey Bay Aquarium is not to miss there. Are there a lot of must dos in Santa Cruz? World Nomads mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. This is the best hostel in Santa Cruz. I think the decision really depends on what you want to do and see and your overall plan.

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