When we vacation, we hike, bike, kayak, surf, horse-back rideyou get the idea. Note that nightlife is laregely confined to weekends in Santa Cruz. 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. I concur with november moon. It has great shopping, delicious dining, buzzing nightlife and some of the most beautiful beaches in the state. Have a fun trip! The beach is wide and good for walking. Like Kibblesmom said, they are only 45 minutes apart. Rooms are well-equipped with a kitchenette and guests can enjoy on-demand movies and a spa bathtub. The home is incredibly airy and bright, equipped with only high-quality amenities and comfy furniture. 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. Posted 2:23:02 AM. The aquarium in Monterey is VERY worth going to. From $113.05 per night. 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. Get answers to your questions about Monterey, Monterey Peninsula Trip Report w/photos. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77301030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Santa Cruz! Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. Address: 652 Cannery Row, Monterey City Center, Monterey (CA), United States, 93940. They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently. Looking for a specific place to stay? 2023, The Broke Backpacker. I was trying to give a VERY general description as to how the areas differ. World Nomads mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. And finally, Aptos is the best area in Santa Cruz to stay in for families because it has excellent beaches and outdoor activities as well as great dining, shopping and sightseeing. The aquarium in Monterey is VERY worth going to. I always put up overflow family at the Holiday Inn Express during Thanksgiving and Christmas. 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. Both SC and Monterey have good options for dinner and good lodging. It offers easy access throughout the neighbourhood and is close to restaurants, the beach and bars. Shop until you drop at the Pacific Garden Mall. Your email address will not be published. Grab a drink, enjoy the incredible beaches and laid-back vibes. I find people to be friendly, generally. Both are good choices. There are beaches, but the coastline is more rocky, which is beautiful and means that you have more opportunity to see sea animals. What is your lodging budget? 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. Santa Cruzs downtown district is also where youll find the local arts scene. Monterey or Santa Cruz. 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. Wake up early and enjoy the beautiful view of the sea, beach and wharf right from your window. And it is farther from stuff. There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. It also extends on the other side of the harbor entrance. You could also visit nearby Carmel which is one of our favorite towns on the CA coast. The beautiful interior design will make you feel comfortable and at home. There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. It has pristine beaches and a laid back atmosphere, while also boasting incredible food, lively nightlife and lush natural surroundings. Natural Bridges and other beach parks. Browse the incredible and creative exhibits at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History. You understand you can't drive the coast LA to SF, right? What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? It has a great central location and is close to restaurants, shops, the beach and more. Set in central California, Santa Cruz is the epitome of west coast cool. A hub of activity and attractions, the Boardwalk is our best recommendation for where to stay in Santa Cruz for one night or if youre on a budget. The aquarium is but one attraction in that area. Would one be better than the other for dinner/accommodations? I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Request additional information, schedule a showing, save to your property organizer. See Bixby Creek Bridge, hike McWay Falls, spend time at San Dollar Beach before reaching San Luis Obispo for the night. And oftentimes good food in that range. Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? I would take Hwy 101 north to San Luis Obispo and pick up Hwy 1 there. I would take Hwy 101 north to San Luis Obispo and pick up Hwy 1 there. 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. Earn free nights and get our Price Guarantee - booking has never been easier on Hotels.com! It was incredible. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It also offers easy access to the beach as well as many of Santa Cruzs most famous attractions and landmarks. And let us not overlook Ostrichland in Buellton. Here are some of the main landmarks that you should not miss in Monterey, CA: Monterey Bay Aquarium in Cannery Row the Old Fishermans Wharf Monterey Museum of Art Monterey State Historic Park Have a nice time in Monterey, Eylul Best Hostel In Cannery Row: Hi Monterey BEST Things to See in Monterey, California | Weekend Travel Guide Catch a show at Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. Dine on delicious dishes at 100 Mile Meals, a concept restaurant that only uses local goods. Dig into an amazing meal any time of day at Ideal Bar & Grill. 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. Is Santa Cruz safe? It is centrally located and within walking distance of the beach. Santa Cruz seamlessly blends its relaxed beach lifestyle with a vibrant culture and some high tech industry. Best 3-Star/4-Star Hotels in Monterey. Monterey Properties; Santa Clara Properties; Santa Cruz Properties; Fresno Properties; Short Term Rentals; List Your Rental; Residents; Owners; Contact; Blog; FAQs; Pay Rent. Right now we have a hotel booked for SF so we will definitely start there.. but I'm flexible to make changes after spending 1 or 2 days in SF. It is worth a half day plus to go to Monterey, see the acquarium, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Either on your way to Big Sur, part of your day in Big Sur or on your way to 101. 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. Two of the most popular beach(es) in Santa Cruz itself are Seabright and Twin Lakes. Mornings going north, afternoon going south. Enjoy delicious food and drinks at Red Restaurant and Bar. The Continental Inn is set at the heart of Santa Cruz. The downtown areass of Monterey and Carmel are nicer. It has the most cultural attractions in Santa Cruz and loads of cool places to check out. ISO Ocean front rental or hotel in the Monterey area. 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. Compare 580 hotels in Santa Cruz using 17,179 real guest reviews. 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 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). The Ritz Carlton - If you can afford it then this is the place to stay. We have been to several large aquariums over the years just not that one. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172993', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nepenthe. Its kind of a funky sort of place, a bit off-beat. Id say Santa Cruz is aimed at a younger audience. Our decision now is what to do with the THREE DAYS we have. We have interest in outdoor eating, swimming/lounging on the beach, live music and natures beauty (but we're not huge hikers or anything). 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. Surf City Inn & Suites is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. This room allows you to have a great home while not having to empty your bank account completely. The other difference between the areas you mention is that Carmel is higher-end real estate. But, despite its small size, choosing the best neighbourhood to stay in Santa Cruz can be a challenge. A couple, family w/kids, etc ? 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. Hwy 101 is nicely scenic though too. The room is spacious, with a comfy bed and has a private bathroom. 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. Twin Lakes is the next beach, just on the other side of the harbor. Have a fun trip! Answer 1 of 19: Driving the coast from SF to LA. Alternatively, you may use, http://www.tripadvisor.com/help/how_to_edit_your_posts. (Click on California Coast June '11), Driving routes and options from SFO to Monterey. (the aquarium sounds amazing). My plan now is to drive up from Pasadena to San Simeon via hwy 5 and then pick up hwy 1. In Big Sur, we plan to do a good bit of hiking so probably would be look for more water sports and activities here. Carmel is next to Monterey, which is a quaint upscale village with plenty of nice restaurants, boutiques, and tasting rooms. Find your new favourite book at the legendary Bookshop Santa Cruz. Natural Bridges State Beach is excellent. Should we. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to SF. I live downtown and walk Pacific Avenue regularly. Driving from LA to Monterey - First time - help. We're adjacent to Watsonville Municipal Airport, just minutes from Sunset State Beach and nearby golf courses, wineries and wildlife preserves. The Best Western in Aptos is one of our best recommendation for where to stay in Santa Cruz for families. See the ruins of the S.S. Palo Alto Concrete Ship. Since youre staying two nights in Big Sur you can easily see Monterey while there. There is a good and informative visitor center and some great tide pools. Rooms from $159/night, book on Booking.com or Hotels.com. And conversely, if you choose to stay in Monterey, you can see SC on the way there. Monterey. It has a eucalyptus grove where Monarch butterflies stay over the winter when they are migrating. For Dead Doctors Don't Lie Use: 888-379-2552 We do not represent World Nomads. Be aware that the hosts live next door with their well-behaved dog (previous guests loved him). We stayed in Cambria overnight, it took about 4hours to get there. The Comfort Inn hotel in Watsonville, CA is near Capitola Beach, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay Aquarium offering free hot breakfast & more! Splash, swim and play at Rio del Mar beach. 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. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? The wharf and cannery row are more prominent in Monterey, and the aquarium is a big draw. Tucked throughout the neighbourhood are a good variety of galleries and shops that showcase the excellent works of local artists, musicians, actors and writers. IMO, Carmel/Pacific Grove is MUCH more attractive and interesting than Santa Cruz. If you do choose to spend the night in Santa Cruz, then you can see Monterey on your way to Big Sur. Located in the best position, you wont have to walk far to the main hotspots youll definitely enjoy your time at this place. Our Trip started in Santa Monica ending in SF. There are loads of places that are great for family days out, and of course, the beach. One night in each is a lot of moving without covering much distance. Visiting the coolest area of Santa Cruz requires staying at an even cooler place. This is our first trip alone in quite a few years & I want it be fun, romantic & relaxing! I am considering whale watching and hiking in the Henry Cowell Redwood park among other things. Drink fresh and handcrafted beers at the Seabright Brewery. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car ride. Carmel Gate: The south gate into Pebble Beach, this entrance can be accessed by following San Antonio Avenue through Carmel-by-the-Sea. More information. The Monerey Bay Aquarium is not to miss there. Flexible booking options on most hotels. The reviews on Tripadvisor are not encouraging. It seems like there are lots of mom and pop hotels. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172993', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nepenthe. I hesitate to recommend either based on "must-sees" since that is such a personal decision. Santa Cruz is more beachy - lots of wide, sandy beaches, a good surf culture, historic seaside amusement park, eclectic downtown, etc. Theres also complimentary wifi. Reserve now, pay when you stay. In Santa Cruz, in addition to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, there is the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop! Santa Cruz and its neighboring towns stretch along 6 miles at the northern edge of the Monterey Bay. You won't regret it. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Day 1: Arrive in Santa Cruz and Overnight Day 2: Walk to Aptos 11 miles / 18 km Day 3: Walk to Moss Landing 13 miles / 22 km Day 4: Walk to Marina 7 miles / 11 km Day 5: Walk to Monterey 11 miles / 19 km Day 6: Onward Travel. Not only will you find the citys only hostel here, but this neighbourhood is packed with delicious cheap eats and inexpensive activities to enjoy. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Theres also an outdoor swimming pool and a Jacuzzi. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Since you have plenty of time for the trip from SF to LA, distance isn't a factor. I've just now been informed that the beach isn't really safe to swim in. On the first leg, we are trying to decide if we should sleep in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? The very next year there were bare feet and jeans and long hair and granny dresses. 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). HI-Santa Cruz Hostel is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. Seriously. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. We've also never been to Cali if that makes a difference. Via: Where should I stop along the way? This historic motel in Santa Cruz is one of the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. It's myself and my husband and we are going the first week in May. Most hotels are fully refundable. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Get an early start to the day with a delightful breakfast at Bill's Caf in charming Willow Glen before hitting the road. Both are good choices. We were planning to stay in Monterey one night. 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. Close, Where to Stay in Santa Cruz, California (2023 COOLEST Areas! 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. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. Hi - I'm traveling to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? In this guide, weve looked at the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. 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. Don't stay at any with "Boardwalk" in the name.. Or spend a night or two in both to maximize your time on the coast. We were planning to stay in Monterey one night. I always put up overflow family at the Holiday Inn Express during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Its a great place to watch surfers. Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Santa Cruz. Visit the free-admission Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for a day of fun, games, rides, sweets, treats and so much more. Is Monterey safer? If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. Another good beach is Seacliff State Beach in Aptos. If approved by the National Ocean and Atmospheric Association, the new sanctuary will provide the missing link in a chain of . We really appreciate & are super excited about our adventure! So its up to you what you want to do. It is only a few years old and is a very nice hotel. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. Delve deep into the history of the neighbourhood and region at the Capitola Historical Museum. The best one is the Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, further down on Ocean Street. $209. I have the time but worry about the length of the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Which is exactly why I put together this guide to the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. For Sale - 7855 Monterra Oaks Rd, Monterey, CA - $1,900,000. We took 101 from LA to Canbria and it was just a gorgeous drive..I wouldn't have imagined that. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center Vacations ; Andril Fireplace Cottages Seven Gables Inn Carmel Cottage Inn Casa Munras Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row Monterey Bay Inn. 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. In short, Santa Cruz is without a doubt one of California's best-kept secrets. When is your trip planned for? Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. 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. I think my kids would love it. They are located at opposite ends of the same bay, so the area for whale watching is pretty much the same from either town. However, don't expect warm water in Santa Cruz, either. Answer 11 of 15: Hi - I'm traveling to California early next August. More posts you may like r/travel Join 9 days ago What are some unique activities that you think are worth traveling for? The Best Western is ideally located in Capitola, Santa Cruzs best neighbourhood for hipsters, trendsetters and cool kids. KSCO Live Show: 831-479-1080 KSCO Office: 831-475-1080 Important! That's coming a bit later in the form of Wallace's Weekender newsletter, which in addition to a boatload of recommendations for things to do around Santa Cruz County has an update on what Harbor High grad-turned-Hollywood A-lister Adam Scott has cooking these days. This is the longest stretch. This is north of the Boardwalk area. It has a convenient location, comfortable beds, and a great range of amenities and features. Youll find plenty of bars, shops, restaurants, and the beach is within walking distance. 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. Not true. :) Can anyone help me figure out what is the best way to plan this?? Thank you for your input. 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. 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. 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. Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Eat an amazing meal at Hindquarter Bar & Grill. Open to suggestions. Right now Highway 1 isn't passable through the Big Sur area due to a road wash out. Santa Cruz does have a scenic ocean area like Monterey and Carmel. 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. A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic booooring. 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. I would chose whichever town seems like the best fit for what you want to do and see. A big construction project is starting on the bridge over the Santa Cruz harbor in September. This charming hotel is an excellent place to make your base in Capitola because there are plenty of shopping, dining and nightlife options nearby. Even if your kids don''t surf, it is fascinating to watch tht surfers from the bluff. Of course, Henry Cowell state park is closer to Santa Cruz, so SC would be more convenient for that. Hearst Castle is currently closed due to COVID. I would choose one location and spend 2 nights. In Santa Cruz, I have it tentatively narrowed down to the Holiday Inn Express or the Best Western. 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. This post has been removed at the author's request. Take a taxi from Santa Cruz to Monterey 42.6 miles $140 - $180 Drive 46 min Drive from Santa Cruz to Monterey 42.6 miles $7 - $12 Quickest way to get there Cheapest option Distance between Santa Cruz to Monterey by bus 91 Weekly Buses 4h 10m Average Duration $6 Cheapest Price See schedules Questions & Answers
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