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). Grab a drink, enjoy the incredible beaches and laid-back vibes. 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. :) Report inappropriate content november_moon San Jose, California Destination Expert for California Level Contributor 24,123 posts 138 reviews 71 helpful votes 8. 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. Sip seaside cocktails at Bay Bar and Grill. I live downtown and walk Pacific Avenue regularly. The Rio Vista Inn is our favourite hotel in Santa Cruz. A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic booooring. There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. 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. We recommend Downtown. Is Santa Cruz better than Monterey? - YourQuickInfo This property has five bedrooms with great features and stunning views. Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? netllama 7 yr. ago The driving time between Monterrey & Santa Cruz is about an hour. $209. Should I: Stay at a hotel in Santa Cruz?. I would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. Address: 652 Cannery Row, Monterey City Center, Monterey (CA), United States, 93940. This is the best hostel in Santa Cruz. Of course, Henry Cowell state park is closer to Santa Cruz, so SC would be more convenient for that. This article was written by travellers for travellers. From $113.05 per night. Should we. What is between Santa Cruz and Monterey? - signalduo.com This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. I hesitate to recommend either based on "must-sees" since that is such a personal decision. Home; For Rent. I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpackers. Big Sur Closed -- Should we stay in Santa Cruz or Monterey?? - Santa Twin Lakes Beach is a good one. Paso Robles, San Simeon, Morro Bay and Pismo Beach are all within an hour of each other. Home [ksco.com] I think between (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Set in central California, Santa Cruz is the epitome of west coast cool. 1190 WARREN DR, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060 - montereybayprop.com This contemporary hotel has comfortable rooms with excellent features and amenities. Also be aware that Highway 1 between (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Our decision now is what to do with the THREE DAYS we have. Why is Santa Cruz warmer than Monterey? Capitola (12 answers) It has a eucalyptus grove where Monarch butterflies stay over the winter when they are migrating. The very next year there were bare feet and jeans and long hair and granny dresses. Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Monterey is more coastal and less beachy. 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 have two girls, 15 and 10 and are an active family and love adventure, the beach, amusement parks and nature. Henry Cowell is 15 minutes away. We have been to several large aquariums over the years just not that one. Natural Bridges and other beach parks. 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. Flexible booking options on most hotels. Heres what people usually ask us about the areas of Santa Cruz and where to stay. Privacy can be the best cure for a hangover, which is why we chose this Airbnb for all of the nightlife enthusiasts. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to SF. Have a fun trip! Is there a decent midprice one? 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. 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. Monterey is more coastal and less beachy. Santa Cruz and its neighboring towns stretch along 6 miles at the northern edge of the Monterey Bay. 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. 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. Th most breathtaking of Highway 1 is when you leave the Cambria area for the next 2hours. 831-372 . 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. The reviews on Tripadvisor are not encouraging. It really just depends on what you are looking for. 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. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63170412', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');California early next August. Monterey Properties; Santa Clara Properties; Santa Cruz Properties; Fresno Properties; Short Term Rentals; List Your Rental; Residents; Owners; Contact; Blog; FAQs; Pay Rent. This post has been removed at the author's request. There are beaches, but the coastline is more rocky, which is beautiful and means that you have more opportunity to see sea animals. The Comfort Inn is centrally located near the Boardwalk, one of the best areas to stay in Santa Cruz. 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. The wharf and cannery row are more prominent in Monterey, and the aquarium is a big draw. There are some museums and movie theaters in the downtown area. The outdoor area is shared with the other unit but offers a cute patio and a BBQ. This neighbourhood is also our best recommendation for where to stay in Santa Cruz with kids because it has a great variety of family-friendly fun, activities and adventures. Santa Cruz to Monterey Park drive - plan a road trip Browse the tiny but interesting Aptos History Museum. The Monterey Hotel - Historic Victorian hotel in the heart of Monterey; Santa Cruz Ocean Pacific Hotel - A no-frills hotel with a fantastic location. Continue travelling east along the coast to Capitola. 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. 7855 Monterra Oaks Rd, Monterey, CA 93940 - MLS ML81920539 - Coldwell per night. In Santa Cruz, I have it tentatively narrowed down to the Holiday Inn Express or the Best Western. Answer 11 of 15: Hi - I'm traveling to California early next August. Take 101, it's much more pleasant than I-5. Day 1: San Francisco to Monterey Be sure to spend some time in San Fran before you leave! Nobody remembers that this was happening all over the country. Would one be better than the other for dinner/accommodations? Many have recommended that we visit Carmel Beach to see all of it's beauty and enjoy the beach. Flora Vista Inn is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. Stay the night in Carmel or Monterey and leave early for Big Sur. Of course, Henry Cowell state park is closer to Santa Cruz, so SC would be more convenient for that. Posted 2:23:02 AM. Santa Cruz has a hippie vibe downtown. Keep in mind that as beautiful as (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California - Located deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains, it is California's oldest state park. Photos and Property Details for 1190 WARREN DR, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060. Half Moon Bay. The Continental Inn is set at the heart of Santa Cruz. Youre steps away from Boardwalk and the beach, as well as cafes, restaurants and other hot spots. And oftentimes good food in that range. Both are stunningly beautiful, but the city beach is safer than the River beach. We saw the Hearst Castle. Your email address will not be published. The ultimate itinerary for a Big Sur road trip 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. There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. 7. 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) Satisfy your sweet tooth with delicious salt-water taffy. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Santa Cruz is one of Californias best-kept secrets. There are some nice restaurants but not as many as Monterey or Carmel. In Big Sur, we plan to do a good bit of hiking so probably would be look for more water sports and activities here. 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. Don't stay at any with "Boardwalk" in the name.. We took 101 from LA to Canbria and it was just a gorgeous drive..I wouldn't have imagined that. During the summer the surf on Carmel city beach is relatively tame, and people do play in the water, but not without some risk. The aquarium in Monterey is a big draw, and it is very good. This hostel has comfortable beds, modern amenities and boasts a friendly, welcoming and social atmosphere. If you want classic beach stuff - laying out, volleyball, playing in the waves, Santa Cruz is what you want. Its kind of a funky sort of place, a bit off-beat. (Click on California Coast June '11), Driving routes and options from SFO to Monterey. Best Places To Stay In Monterey Bay - WhereToStayClub.com It is only a few years old and is a very nice hotel. The Best Western is ideally located in Capitola, Santa Cruzs best neighbourhood for hipsters, trendsetters and cool kids. . We also love seeing wildlife. Road Trip from Santa Barbara to San Francisco - LazyTrips You won't regret it. It is world class. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77279322', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey and Santa Cruz are only 45 minutes apart, you can easily stay in one and visit the other, if you wish. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? More information. It is known for its European style houses, cosy cafes, and luxe restaurants, which is why Aptos is one of the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. Your laptop deserves a proper pack, and we know a good few! Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Roaring Camp Railroads, the Santa Cruz Wharf, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, and other . 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. Princess or sanctuary cruises (Whale watching). Visitors to Santa Cruz particularly seem to like the entertainment choices and beaches, which are great ways to discover the local area. Thank you for your input. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. This charming hotel is one of our top picks for where to stay in Santa Cruz with kids if youre on a budget. With all of the educational institutions we have, it has an international feel to it, and many good restaurants. That was sort of cool to see. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63170412', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');California early next August. Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor Also, can any give me some input on hwy1 from LA up to San Simeon. Mar 5 - Mar 6. . And for transparencys sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. Open to suggestions. What do you think? Thanks all! ), Bougie-coffee lover and staunch enemy of coriander; TEFL-certified language teacher, linguist, and aspiring polyglot. Stay in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? - Santa Cruz Forum More than 200 films have been shot in Monterey County, and it's now home to HBO's acclaimed Big Little Lies. Hearst Castle is currently closed due to COVID. 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. And it is farther from stuff. Set in central California, Santa Cruz is the epitome of west coast cool. My plan now is to drive up from Pasadena to San Simeon via hwy 5 and then pick up hwy 1. Rooms from $159/night, book on Booking.com or Hotels.com. Highway 1 is washed out and closed. In Santa Cruz, in addition to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, there is the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? In Santa Cruz, I have it tentatively narrowed down to the Holiday Inn Express or the Best Western. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. I think Monterey probably has the edge for lodging and restaurants within walking distance to more lodging. Get excited here are our best recommendations for where to stay in Santa Cruz, California, USA. We were planning to stay in Monterey one night. Edited to add that near Henry Cowell state park is Roaring Camp Railroad, which is a narrow gauge steam train that takes people on rides through the redwoods. The Ultimate 17-Mile Drive Itinerary - California Santa Cruz. Poor second cousin (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Situated south of Downtown, the Boardwalk spans the seaside and is home to buzzing attractions, busy restaurants, and cosy cafes. For Sale - 7855 Monterra Oaks Rd, Monterey, CA - $1,900,000. It is conveniently located near the Boardwalk and there are plenty of shops, restaurants and bars within walking distance. I always put up overflow family at the Holiday Inn Express during Thanksgiving and Christmas. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-109324334', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey Bay Aquarium. Eat incredible and fresh seafood, pasta and more at Caf Rio. This excellent three-star hotel is set in central Midtown, one of the best places in Santa Cruz to stay for nightlife. Monterey is more coastal than beachy, if that makes sense. Where to Stay in Santa Cruz, California (2023 COOLEST Areas!) Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. It is ideally located at the heart of the city and is a quick walk to the restaurants, attractions and bars of the Downtown, the Boardwalk and Midtown neighbourhoods. It has shifted to meth heads and needles. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. Both are good choices. No matter where you are in the neighbourhood, youll find yourself surrounded by great tunes. Another excellent option is the Rio Vista Inn & Suites Santa Cruz. Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor We watched it that morning and DS said it was his favorite gift. It is a great option for Santa Cruz accommodation because it has comfortable rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, and free wifi. 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. Via: Where should I stop along the way? Go for a hike through Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Carmel Gate: The south gate into Pebble Beach, this entrance can be accessed by following San Antonio Avenue through Carmel-by-the-Sea. Santa Cruz has a more tie-dye and granola feel . Hope this helps a bit! Delve deep into the history of the neighbourhood and region at the Capitola Historical Museum. The Santa Cruz area includes the towns of Santa Cruz, Aptos, Capitola, and Soquel. 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. Fun place! Is Santa Cruz safe? I've put together a San Francisco city guide to give you some ideas. I would also suggest a visit to the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Mornings going north, afternoon going south. Alternatively, you may use, http://www.tripadvisor.com/help/how_to_edit_your_posts. Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf are touristy, but downtown isn't really - they are all close together though. Take 101, it's much more pleasant than I-5. Watch Sunsets of the Monterey Bay From a Hilltop Villa Theres also a laundry service and pool on-site. Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip {25 Stops + 7 Day Guide} - California Not only will you find the citys only hostel here, but this neighbourhood is packed with delicious cheap eats and inexpensive activities to enjoy. We are even usually warmer that Pismo Beach because our beaches face south. Your decision sounds great! Make your voice heard as feds consider Chumash Heritage Marine I hear the beaches there are nice so we're considering Twin Lakes State Beach & Manresa. We're adjacent to Watsonville Municipal Airport, just minutes from Sunset State Beach and nearby golf courses, wineries and wildlife preserves. It is the bordering town to Monterey. 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. Grab a drink at the Asti, an old-school dive bar. When is your trip planned for? 10:47 am Monterey stay for about 4 hours and leave at 2:47 pm drive for about 1 hour. Also, I'm thinking of staying at the Best Western in Morro Bay. 400 plus pictures, but I digress. :) Can anyone help me figure out what is the best way to plan this?? The city of Santa Cruz boasts a string of sandy beaches and a historic wharf. 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. The other difference between the areas you mention is that Carmel is higher-end real estate. Your email address will not be published. Compare 578 hotels, room rates, hotel reviews and availability. It has a great central location and is within walking distance of bars, bistros and the beach.