Most hotels are fully refundable. Heres what people usually ask us about the areas of Santa Cruz and where to stay. 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. Don't know if your kids would be that interested in that, mine were 20 and 17 so it was different for us. The seaside town of Santa Cruz is one of the coolest places in California. I concur with november moon. When is your trip planned for? We arrive Monday afternoon and leave Saturday morning out of the San Francisco airport. Shop until you drop at the Pacific Garden Mall. In short, Santa Cruz is without a doubt one of California's best-kept secrets. Should we. I would take Hwy 101 north to San Luis Obispo and pick up Hwy 1 there. Its always been a big hit with the kids in our family. 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. Browse the incredible and creative exhibits at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History. We love Capitola. Carmel is next to Monterey, which is a quaint upscale village with plenty of nice restaurants, boutiques, and tasting rooms. Answer 11 of 15: Hi - I'm traveling to California early next August. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. One of the coolest places to stay in Santa Cruz, Capitola is packed with incredible things to see and explore. The downtown areass of Monterey and Carmel are nicer. 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. 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. Hwy 101 is nicely scenic though too. Both are good choices, it really depends on the atmosphere that you want. I always put up overflow family at the Holiday Inn Express during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Hearst Castle is currently closed due to COVID. tour along the Highway 1 from San Francisco to LA? And let us not overlook Ostrichland in Buellton. More than 200 films have been shot in Monterey County, and it's now home to HBO's acclaimed Big Little Lies. It's possible to stay anywhere in the area and get to everything else fairly fast. The earliest known filming took place in Monterey in 1897, compared to Santa Cruz's first foray into film in 1915. The price is $209 per night. 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. There is one near the Holiday Inn Express, which is on Ocean Street which leads into town and one at 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. Capitola (12 answers) 1. The aquarium in Monterey is a big draw, and it is very good. Theres also an outdoor swimming pool and on-site parking. We really appreciate & are super excited about our adventure! Midtown is an eclectic neighbourhood located east of the city centre. There are no "hippies". You might want to consider two adjoining rooms. My biggest problem is finding rooms that accommodate 6. One person's must-see can be another person's meh. If you choose Santa Cruz, check rates at the Dream Inn or Sea and Sand. Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel. 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). Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, laundry facilities, a golf course and a restaurant. Escape the crowds at artsy and secluded Capitola Beach. The coastline is rockier and generally more scenic, and although there are some beaches, Monterey isn't really a beach town - its focus is more on sailing/boating, fishing, and marine life. However, just to confuse things I believe that they have merged the two into "Twin Lakes State Beach". What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? The Monterey Hotel (from USD 112) Come and experience full-blown comfort at The Monterey Hotel. They are located at opposite ends of the same bay, so the area for whale watching is pretty much the same from either town. I think my kids would love it. Of course, Henry Cowell state park is closer to Santa Cruz, so SC would be more convenient for that. 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. It's among the best places to stay in Monterey, CA. Right now Highway 1 isn't passable through the Big Sur area due to a road wash out. My boyfriend & I are planning a trip to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Spend another night closer to Santa Barbara. Both are great. more. Catch a show at Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. Its fun and your younger kids would probably love it. HI-Santa Cruz Hostel is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. The Capitola Venetian Hotel is close to everything the neighbourhood has to offer. Monterey is more coastal - there are some beaches too, but the coastline is rocky so the focus is more on scenery and wildlife. I would take Hwy 101 north to San Luis Obispo and pick up Hwy 1 there. Continue travelling east along the coast to Capitola. Driving from LA to Monterey - First time - help. 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. Address: 652 Cannery Row, Monterey City Center, Monterey (CA), United States, 93940. We have been to several large aquariums over the years just not that one. The Municipal Wharf is near the Boardwalk and Stagnaro Bros. takes boats out on the Bay for whale watching. It has a convenient location, comfortable beds, and a great range of amenities and features. This hostel has comfortable beds, modern amenities and boasts a friendly, welcoming and social atmosphere. There are plenty of restaurants, bars and clubs nearby, and the beach is just a short walk away. Twin Lakes Beach is a good one. 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. Theres also a large, fully-stocked kitchen. Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. It is especially good if this is your first time visiting. It is conveniently located near the Boardwalk and there are plenty of shops, restaurants and bars within walking distance. Compare 578 hotels, room rates, hotel reviews and availability. Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Roaring Camp Railroads, the Santa Cruz Wharf, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, and other . Flora Vista Inn is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. Here youll find a vast array of independent boutiques, delicious restaurants, charming inns and lively bars. 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. This delightful hotel is one of the best places in Santa Cruz to stay in because it has a great central location. Via: Where should I stop along the way? It has 63 spacious rooms, free wifi and an outdoor pool. I would also use this term to describe the Haight Ashbury neighborhood generically. Rooms are well-equipped with a kitchenette and guests can enjoy on-demand movies and a spa bathtub. Thanks! As to which town, I prefer Santa Cruz, but I think Monterey has better restaurants. We saw the Hearst Castle. A great way to access transportation options in Santa Cruz is to visit www.Cruz511.org. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Dig into an amazing meal any time of day at Ideal Bar & Grill. Situated south of Downtown, the Boardwalk spans the seaside and is home to buzzing attractions, busy restaurants, and cosy cafes. 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 . We have been to several large aquariums over the years just not that one. At Pitney Bowes, we do the right thing, the right way. Highway 1 Gate: This 17-Mile Drive entrance is off of exit 399A. Compare 580 hotels in Santa Cruz using 17,179 real guest reviews. 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 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. Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? Required fields are marked *. Seattle's most famous hotel, The Edgewater, is right along the waterfront, and a perfect way to relax before a long multi-day drive. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Santa Cruzs downtown district is also where youll find the local arts scene. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. More posts you may like r/travel Join 9 days ago What are some unique activities that you think are worth traveling for? Would you recommend one? Rooms come complete with A/C and include refrigerators. This is a good one - heavily visited, but not as busy as the main beach. For things to see on the Monterey Peninsula see, https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g580824-Activities-Monterey_Peninsula_California.html, Santa Cruz is focused more on the Boardwalk or to go see Henry Cowell Redwoods.it also has the ocean, surfing, and a winery section (not as nice as Carmel or Carmel Valley but enough wineries to enjoy in a ery short visit.). Eat an amazing meal at Hindquarter Bar & Grill. This charming hotel is an excellent place to make your base in Capitola because there are plenty of shopping, dining and nightlife options nearby. Avila Beach is warm in that area. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-109324334', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey Bay Aquarium. Youll find plenty of bars, shops, restaurants, and the beach is within walking distance. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Visiting the coolest area of Santa Cruz requires staying at an even cooler place. The 1960's "hippie" students I mentioned are now retired lawyers, doctors, university professors, heads of universities, involved in the genome project, and important members of communities all over California. If youre still not sure where to stay in Santa Cruz, consider checking out these amazing treehouses in California! There are some museums and movie theaters in the downtown area. The Continental Inn is set at the heart of Santa Cruz. 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. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. Since youre staying two nights in Big Sur you can easily see Monterey while there. It is one of the most . The very next year there were bare feet and jeans and long hair and granny dresses. 10:00 am start in Santa Cruz drive for about 47 minutes. Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Cruz, an IHG Hotel. 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 Guests can enjoy a variety of on-site amenities, like a swimming pool and free wifi. Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. The aquarium is but one attraction in that area. Th most breathtaking of Highway 1 is when you leave the Cambria area for the next 2hours. 126 216 r/travel Join 8 days ago Monterey has a temperate climate, with a short, intense rainy season. Since (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The Monerey Bay Aquarium is not to miss there. We've also never been to Cali if that makes a difference. This contemporary hotel has comfortable rooms with excellent features and amenities. But, despite its small size, choosing the best neighbourhood to stay in Santa Cruz can be a challenge. We are pretty active so we like hiking and kayaking, but we also like to stay in nice accommodations at the end of the night with good food and a nice glass of wine. Santa Cruz is more of a classic CA beach town with a surf culture and an eclectic downtown. netllama 7 yr. ago The driving time between Monterrey & Santa Cruz is about an hour. I would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. In Santa Cruz, I have it tentatively narrowed down to the Holiday Inn Express or the Best Western. Show more. Although it might be a little more upmarket compared to other areas of Santa Cruz, trust me when I say, it worth the splurge! Enjoy a great selection of sweet and savoury dishes at the Crepe Place, a longstanding Santa Cruz favourite. Should I drive hwy 1 that part of the journey? Santa Cruz is more of a beachy town with lots of wide, sandy beaches, the Boardwalk amusement park, an eclectic downtown, strong surfing culture. Carmel has some very nice places to stay. 400 plus pictures, but I digress. This room allows you to have a great home while not having to empty your bank account completely. It is a laid-back and funky town that offers great restaurants, independent shops, lively nightlife and some of the best beaches in the state. Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! Highway 1 is washed out and closed. The Comfort Inn hotel in Watsonville, CA is near Capitola Beach, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay Aquarium offering free hot breakfast & more! What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? Go for a hike through Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. Posted 2:23:02 AM. 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. Don't know if your kids would be that interested in that, mine were 20 and 17 so it was different for us. We also like pit stops - a couple things we were looking at to pit stop are Hearst Castle, Madonna Inn. The Monterey Hotel - Historic Victorian hotel in the heart of Monterey; Santa Cruz Ocean Pacific Hotel - A no-frills hotel with a fantastic location. In Santa Cruz, in addition to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, there is the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Take a photo at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay for some great memories without a hefty price tag. This charming hotel is one of our top picks for where to stay in Santa Cruz with kids if youre on a budget. Visitors to Santa Cruz particularly seem to like the entertainment choices and beaches, which are great ways to discover the local area. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. You could also visit nearby Carmel which is one of our favorite towns on the CA coast. It has great shopping, delicious dining, buzzing nightlife and some of the most beautiful beaches in the state. We saw the Hearst Castle. Should I: Stay at a hotel in Santa Cruz?. I am considering whale watching and hiking in the Henry Cowell Redwood park among other things. Downtown is quite historic - Monterey was the first capitol of CA and there are several buildings from that time in the Monterey Historic Park and through downtown. The most breathtaking part of the drive is through Big Sur, which is the stretch of coast between Cambria and Carmel. It will be warmer here, so if you want a beach day this is your place. 5:52 pm Paso Robles eat at Niner Wine Estates stay overnight at Summerwood Winery and Inn They are located at opposite ends of the same bay, so the area for whale watching is pretty much the same from either town. Also, I'm thinking of staying at the Best Western in Morro Bay.
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