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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. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Santa Cruz is one of Californias best-kept secrets. We spend a lot of time in the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It also extends on the other side of the harbor entrance. Are there a lot of must dos in Santa Cruz? Compare 578 hotels, room rates, hotel reviews and availability. Note that nightlife is laregely confined to weekends in Santa Cruz. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77281854', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey has more going for it than Santa Cruz in terms of things to do as one can easily do Carmel, Pacific Grove, Carmel Valley, and Big Sur from there too. Stay the night in Carmel or Monterey and leave early for Big Sur. Santa Cruz is the beach locals go to for sun and water activities. And it is farther from stuff. Weve tested countless packs over the years, and now weve found our absolute favourite: the nomad-approved Nomatic Travel Bag. . InterContinental The Clement Monterey (from USD 304) The oceanfront views from the InterContinental Clement Monterey will absolutely take your breath away. 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. Visit the free-admission Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for a day of fun, games, rides, sweets, treats and so much more. It is one of the most . It is centrally located and within walking distance of the beach. Traffic is nothing like what you find in the big city (except during events like Car Week). On the first leg, we are trying to decide if we should sleep in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car ride. Another excellent option is the Rio Vista Inn & Suites Santa Cruz. Get an early start to the day with a delightful breakfast at Bill's Caf in charming Willow Glen before hitting the road. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. We do not represent World Nomads. Looking for exceptional deals on Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Westside Santa Cruz vacation packages? Take 101, it's much more pleasant than I-5. It has a great central location and is within walking distance of bars, bistros and the beach. But because it is farther out, it is great for beach combing because there aren't as many people - sometimes very few people. What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? Email [emailprotected] to find out how. 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. It is comprised of 16 modern rooms with an excellent array of amenities and features. The Rio Vista Inn is our favourite hotel in Santa Cruz. Even if your kids don''t surf, it is fascinating to watch tht surfers from the bluff. Instead, buy an eSIM! Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. What is your next planned stop and how many days/nights total do you have for the coastal section of your trip? Both are stunningly beautiful, but the city beach is safer than the River beach. 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. My biggest problem is finding rooms that accommodate 6. Re: Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? 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. 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. 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. 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. The Ritz Carlton - If you can afford it then this is the place to stay. The beach at Capitola Village is good - there are a lot of shops and restaurants just off the beach, so that can be fun. Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? 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. Edited: 01 June . 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. Be aware that the hosts live next door with their well-behaved dog (previous guests loved him). 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. 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. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. 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. Situated south of Downtown, the Boardwalk spans the seaside and is home to buzzing attractions, busy restaurants, and cosy cafes. It seems like there are lots of mom and pop hotels. That was sort of cool to see. Twin Lakes Beach is a good one. Monterey Tourism Monterey Hotels Monterey Guest House Monterey Holiday Homes Monterey Holiday Packages Monterey Flights . In Santa Cruz, I have it tentatively narrowed down to the Holiday Inn Express or the Best Western. Reserve now, pay when you stay. The apartment is very bright, furnished beautifully and offers so much comfort from a massive bed to a great living area. The Santa Cruz area includes the towns of Santa Cruz, Aptos, Capitola, and Soquel. Should we. 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. All amenities are in great condition, the beach is right around the corner and the living area is perfect to gather the whole family for dinner after a long and exciting day. Well, dont worry because in this next section were going to break each of them down in much more detail. It is only a few years old and is a very nice hotel. My home beach is Seabright, which is just over the river. Two of the most popular beach(es) in Santa Cruz itself are Seabright and Twin Lakes. Yes, finding a room which would hold a family of 6 is definitely a problem. This stunning three-star property is ideally located in La Selva Beach. Our Trip started in Santa Monica ending in SF. at the end of (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? With over 14 state parks, wineries, museums, farmer's markets, surfing, shopping, and family fun activities, there are plenty of things to do. 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. I am considering whale watching and hiking in the Henry Cowell Redwood park among other things. Half Moon Bay. Get answers to your questions about Monterey, Monterey Peninsula Trip Report w/photos. Seriously. 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. 2. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Carmel Beach is beautiful for romantic walks and just enjoying the view, but the water is cold and rip currents are common. Don't know if your kids would be that interested in that, mine were 20 and 17 so it was different for us. We're adjacent to Watsonville Municipal Airport, just minutes from Sunset State Beach and nearby golf courses, wineries and wildlife preserves. Via: Where should I stop along the way? My plan now is to drive up from Pasadena to San Simeon via hwy 5 and then pick up hwy 1. Santa Cruz is just a 45-minute drive from the historic waterfront town of Monterey and is situated alongside the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, one of the largest marine sanctuaries in the United States.This protected ocean environment extends for 276 miles along the coastline and provides habitat for 36 . 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. The Monerey Bay Aquarium is not to miss there. That is, as long as you don't get stuck in traffic. Theres also a laundry service and pool on-site. Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. You could easily spend 5-7 days in the Carmel/PG/Monterey/Big Sur area. The Broke Backpacker's Head of Administration, Art hails from North Florida where the elevation fails to reach even 5 meters. 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 email address will not be published. In short, Santa Cruz is without a doubt one of Californias best-kept secrets. You can whale watch from either town. Santa Cruz is more beachy - lots of wide, sandy beaches, a good surf culture, historic seaside amusement park, eclectic downtown, etc. Monterey Hotel Deals; Re: Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? I will definitely check into the train ride. Listed below are the top historic hotels in Monterey, California, that you can scroll over and book now. 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. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. No matter where you are in the neighbourhood, youll find yourself surrounded by great tunes. 1 big room with queen bed and a futon in the living room that turns into a bed. Then you head inland a bit, still scenic though, and meet back up with the coast later. more. This article was written by travellers for travellers. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. 1. It offers easy access throughout the neighbourhood and is close to restaurants, the beach and bars. Highway 1 is washed out and closed. The most breathtaking part of the drive is through Big Sur, which is the stretch of coast between Cambria and Carmel. Don't stay at any with "Boardwalk" in the name.. This nature-rich . 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. Or spend a night or two in both to maximize your time on the coast. In Santa Cruz, you can travel from the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary to the Redwoods without a car. Take the second exit out of the roundabout, and follow the signs to Pebble Beach. We arrive Monday afternoon and leave Saturday morning out of the San Francisco airport. Hwy 101 is nicely scenic though too. In August they have Art & Jazz @ the beach on Sunday afternoons and Twilight Concerts on Wednesday evenings. Best deals for Monterey Bay Aquarium tickets? Want to be featured in our list? On the first leg, we are trying to decide if we should sleep in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? Your email address will not be published. Aptos is our top pick for families. There's this misconception that (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 400 plus pictures, but I digress. Thanks! Also.. is Santa Cruz a better beach destination for those that actually want to spend a little time in the water? I would take Hwy 101 north to San Luis Obispo and pick up Hwy 1 there. Have a fun trip! Things to Do. :) Can anyone help me figure out what is the best way to plan this?? I would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. If you like to stay at a motel and do the Boardwalk, Santa Cruz is more your liking stay there. This excellent three-star hotel is set in central Midtown, one of the best places in Santa Cruz to stay for nightlife. I would also suggest a visit to the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. We saw the Hearst Castle. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? It was incredible. We are even usually warmer that Pismo Beach because our beaches face south. 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. Splash, swim and play at Rio del Mar beach. 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. Dine on delicious dishes at 100 Mile Meals, a concept restaurant that only uses local goods. The Capitola Venetian Hotel is close to everything the neighbourhood has to offer. Thanks everyone for the tips and recommendations. Obviously the true hippies have moved on but the areas still have a bit of that feel and try and remain colorful as opposed to going mainstream. Browse the tiny but interesting Aptos History Museum. Get complete property information, maps, street view, schools, walk score and more. It has shifted to meth heads and needles. Since (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? They won't hurt yu. Open to suggestions. Highway 1 through Santa Cruz has a lot of traffic in mornings and after 3. I would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. Set at the heart of the city, this hotel is a short walk to great dining, nightlife, shopping and sightseeing options. Since youre staying two nights in Big Sur you can easily see Monterey while there. 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. Monterey or Carmel to Big Sur The best place to stay if embarking upon a Big Sur day trip is Carmel or Monterey. 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. . Should we. Heres what people usually ask us about the areas of Santa Cruz and where to stay. Its fun and your younger kids would probably love it. We know about the road - we are going go around the long way to Paso Robles to miss the construction.. I have the time but worry about the length of the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The Municipal Wharf is near the Boardwalk and Stagnaro Bros. takes boats out on the Bay for whale watching. Although it might be a little more upmarket compared to other areas of Santa Cruz, trust me when I say, it worth the splurge! Each room comes complete with a minibar, kitchenette and wireless internet access. This contemporary hotel has comfortable rooms with excellent features and amenities. Like Kibblesmom said, they are only 45 minutes apart. You can usually see plenty of marine wildlife from shore, especially if you go along the coastal recreation trail, which runs for miles. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63170412', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');California early next August. Like Kibblesmom said, they are only 45 minutes apart. 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. Th most breathtaking of Highway 1 is when you leave the Cambria area for the next 2hours. 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. 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. Also, can any give me some input on hwy1 from LA up to San Simeon. If not, may I suggest another helping of Wallace Baine? And let us not overlook Ostrichland in Buellton. Princess or sanctuary cruises (Whale watching). What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? Monterey is a quintessential north California ocean town in the USA and has a great population of marine wildlife and fresh seafood. There are beaches, but the coastline is more rocky, which is beautiful and means that you have more opportunity to see sea animals. 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. Maybe that's why he's in love with the Andes, where you'll find him in the local cafs ordering the. Capitola is a beachside neighbourhood bursting with a European flair. Midtown is an eclectic neighbourhood located east of the city centre. The Rio Vista Inn is our favourite hotel in Santa Cruz. The Boardwalk is also our pick for the best neighbourhood in Santa Cruz to stay in if youre on a budget. Most travelers stop in Santa Cruz en route to Monterey, especially since it's only a few hours from SF and the next leg of your drive might make for a seriously long day IF you also want to include a stop in Monterey and/or Carmel. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77282033', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey/Carmel area. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77301030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Santa Cruz! Also, I'm thinking of staying at the Best Western in Morro Bay. 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). I would also use this term to describe the Haight Ashbury neighborhood generically. Do you have any recommendations? The outdoor area is shared with the other unit but offers a cute patio and a BBQ. Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop! In Santa Cruz, I have it tentatively narrowed down to the Holiday Inn Express or the Best Western. Grab a drink, enjoy the incredible beaches and laid-back vibes. Monterey or Santa Cruz. 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. This is the longest stretch. The home is incredibly airy and bright, equipped with only high-quality amenities and comfy furniture. Natural Bridges State Beach is excellent. It is worth a half day plus to go to Monterey, see the acquarium, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Enjoy delicious food and drinks at Red Restaurant and Bar. During the summer the surf on Carmel city beach is relatively tame, and people do play in the water, but not without some risk. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. Listen to live music at the Kuumbwa Jazz Centre. 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) However, you do not have to choose where to stay based on the aquarium, as Santa Cruz and Monterey are only about 45 minutes apart. Forecasts the expected snowfall amount, snow accumulation, and with snowfall radar. I concur with november moon. It is the bordering town to Monterey. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads usingthis link. Walk the tiny .6-mile-long . Feast on mouthwatering pub fare at 99 Bottles Restaurant & Pub. Another consideration is your overall plan - how many nights do you have for your drive down the coast? It's beautiful there and lots of things to see and do beyond the aquarium. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. Your decision sounds great! Downtown is a large neighbourhood located in central Santa Cruz. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, laundry facilities, a golf course and a restaurant. Inside its quaint Victorian facade lie 69 well-appointed rooms, some of which are pet-friendly, too. Also be aware that Highway 1 between (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Compare 580 hotels in Santa Cruz using 17,179 real guest reviews. There are plenty of restaurants, bars and clubs nearby, and the beach is just a short walk away. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to. There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. This hotel has 49 cosy, clean and comfortable rooms. You can find great Airbnbs like Seacliff House. HI-Santa Cruz Hostel is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. 2023, The Broke Backpacker. Would one be better than the other for dinner/accommodations? More information. Browse the incredible and creative exhibits at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History. Both are great. It has pristine beaches and a laid back atmosphere, while also boasting incredible food, lively nightlife and lush natural surroundings. I second the idea of overnighting in Santa Barbara, perhaps taking in Solvang en route. 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. However, for stretches of Big Sur, most accommodations while beautiful are few and expensive. Still not sure which of Santa Cruzs best neighbourhoods is right for you? 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. Youre steps away from Boardwalk and the beach, as well as cafes, restaurants and other hot spots. Located at the north end of Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz is a relaxed and laid-back city known as a counterculture and artistic hub with a bohemian feel and youthful vibes. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Show more. Would you recommend one? There are no "hippies". Itinerary. Of course, Henry Cowell state park is closer to Santa Cruz, so SC would be more convenient for that. My plan now is to drive up from Pasadena to San Simeon via hwy 5 and then pick up hwy 1. Pacific Grove is a really cute town right in between with bunches of Bed and Breakfasts. 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. I live downtown and walk Pacific Avenue regularly. If looking at sea life excites you, you must visit the ocean-view decks to spot humpback whales. In Santa Cruz, in addition to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, there is the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? I hesitate to recommend either based on "must-sees" since that is such a personal decision.