Making a trip in sept to Monterey , Carmel then Santa Cruz Earn free nights and get our Price Guarantee - booking has never been easier on Hotels.com! 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. 400 plus pictures, but I digress. Alternatively, you may use, InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel, http://www.montereypeninsula.info/guide/beaches.htm. 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 ? More than 200 films have been shot in Monterey County, and it's now home to HBO's acclaimed Big Little Lies. Our home offers a view of the entire Monterey Bay and sits atop a hilltop with lots of privacy. WHERE TO STAY in MONTEREY - Best Areas & Neighborhoods - Santorini Dave In Santa Cruz, I have it tentatively narrowed down to the Holiday Inn Express or the Best Western. :). It has pristine beaches and a laid back atmosphere, while also boasting incredible food, lively nightlife and lush natural surroundings. We love Capitola. View details, map and photos of this residential lots property with 0 bedrooms and 0 total baths. We have interest in outdoor eating, swimming/lounging on the beach, live music and natures beauty (but we're not huge hikers or anything). What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Big Sur Closed -- Should we stay in Santa Cruz or Monterey?? - Santa Answer 11 of 15: Hi - I'm traveling to California early next August. How do I get from San Jose to Santa Cruz without a car? - 2023 The Rio Vista Inn is our favourite hotel in Santa Cruz. Stay in Monterey or Carmel. Capitola (12 answers) Princess or sanctuary cruises (Whale watching). The first class of the University of Santa Cruz campus in 1965 appeared in chinos and skirts and cashmere sweaters. Sip seaside cocktails at Bay Bar and Grill. Best 3-Star/4-Star Hotels in Monterey. Thanks! This shabby-chic hotel is just steps from the beach, the Boardwalk, great restaurants and lively nightlife. 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. 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. Guests can enjoy a heated swimming pool, free wifi and a delicious daily breakfast. Get answers to your questions about Monterey, Monterey Peninsula Trip Report w/photos. Is your phone eSIM ready? Youll find plenty of bars, shops, restaurants, and the beach is within walking distance. Highway 1 Road Trip: Overnight stay in Monterey vs. Santa Cruz 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) Home [ksco.com] This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. I don't know Santa Cruz beaches well enough to speak with authority, but Monterey Peninsula area beaches aren't especially safe for swimming. Monterey is more coastal and less beachy. This hotel has 49 cosy, clean and comfortable rooms. Located in the best position, you wont have to walk far to the main hotspots youll definitely enjoy your time at this place. Enjoy delicious food and drinks at Red Restaurant and Bar. Santa Cruz is more of a classic CA beach town with a surf culture and an eclectic downtown. There are plenty of restaurants, bars and clubs nearby, and the beach is just a short walk away. Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. They are located at opposite ends of the same bay, so the area for whale watching is pretty much the same from either town. Should I: Stay at a hotel in Santa Cruz?. Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. I will definitely check into the train ride. Convenient private room is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. Natural Bridges State Beach is excellent. If looking at sea life excites you, you must visit the ocean-view decks to spot humpback whales. More posts you may like r/travel Join 9 days ago What are some unique activities that you think are worth traveling for? Carmel, Pacific Grove, and Monterey are adjacent to one another.Santa Cruz would be further north. Take that one, as its beautiful and different from Highway 1. The wharf and cannery row are more prominent in Monterey, and the aquarium is a big draw. 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. 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. 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. The aquarium is but one attraction in that area. Both are good choices. In this guide, weve looked at the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. Things to Do - Visit Santa Cruz County Here's hoping that warms you up a bit this brisk Thursday morning. A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic booooring. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. We were in CA last June and stayed in Santa Cruz, and visited the Aquarium. I think the decision really depends on what you want to do and see and your overall plan. Is It Better To Stay In Santa Cruz Or Monterey? - TravelMagma Santa Cruzs Boardwalk neighbourhood is one of the liveliest and most vibrant districts in the city. It was incredible. The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary (2022) Monterey is more coastal and less beachy. But, despite its small size, choosing the best neighbourhood to stay in Santa Cruz can be a challenge. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77282033', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey/Carmel area. Road Trip from Santa Barbara to San Francisco - LazyTrips Find your new favourite book at the legendary Bookshop Santa Cruz. The home is incredibly airy and bright, equipped with only high-quality amenities and comfy furniture. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? It's among the best places to stay in Monterey, CA. Th most breathtaking of Highway 1 is when you leave the Cambria area for the next 2hours. That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we dont believe are up to scratch. netllama 7 yr. ago The driving time between Monterrey & Santa Cruz is about an hour. 5:52 pm Paso Robles eat at Niner Wine Estates stay overnight at Summerwood Winery and Inn 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. So its up to you what you want to do. Be aware that the hosts live next door with their well-behaved dog (previous guests loved him). On the first leg, we are trying to decide if we should sleep in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? In Santa Cruz, I have it tentatively narrowed down to the Holiday Inn Express or the Best Western. It's possible to stay anywhere in the area and get to everything else fairly fast. Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor This historic motel in Santa Cruz is one of the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Capitola is a beachside neighbourhood bursting with a European flair. I would also use this term to describe the Haight Ashbury neighborhood generically. 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. Eat an amazing meal at Hindquarter Bar & Grill. The beautiful interior design will make you feel comfortable and at home. Highway 1 is washed out and closed. Now I'm hearing all of this great stuff about Monterey Bay also. Take 101, it's much more pleasant than I-5. 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. Weve tested countless packs over the years, and now weve found our absolute favourite: the nomad-approved Nomatic Travel Bag. You also have the Boardwalk, which is a seaside amusement park - rides, including an historic wooden roller coaster, games, waffle cones. 4:02 pm King City (California) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:02 pm drive for about 50 minutes. 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 ? The Ritz Carlton - If you can afford it then this is the place to stay. Even the hostels in Santa Barbara are upscale. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. Hwy 101 is nicely scenic though too. And let us not overlook Ostrichland in Buellton. Is Monterey safer? Our Trip started in Santa Monica ending in SF. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77290577', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey and Santa Cruz gets a lot of traffic especially on weekends. It's a small, funky lil beach town with shops, casual restaurants & beach access. Monterey is more coastal - there are some beaches too, but the coastline is rocky so the focus is more on scenery and wildlife. This post has been removed at the author's request. Youre steps away from Boardwalk and the beach, as well as cafes, restaurants and other hot spots. What You Should Know About Managing Security Deposits as a New Property Splash, swim and play at Rio del Mar beach. See the ruins of the S.S. Palo Alto Concrete Ship. Continue travelling east along the coast to Capitola. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. It is located at the heart of Santa Cruz and is just a stones throw from great dining, shopping and nightlife options. It is close to popular tourist attractions as well as dining, nightlife and shopping options. We are even usually warmer that Pismo Beach because our beaches face south. The good news: Santa Cruz and the Monterey Peninsula are only 45 minutes apart, so you can stay in one and easily visit the other. Have a fun trip! Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! I am considering whale watching and hiking in the Henry Cowell Redwood park among other things. Casablanca On The Beach 101 Main St, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060 Fully refundable Reserve now, pay when you stay $144 per night Mar 5 - Mar 6 1.01 mi from city center 8.4/5 (810 reviews) N reason to go anywhere else. There are beaches, but the coastline is more rocky, which is beautiful and means that you have more opportunity to see sea animals. We have been to several large aquariums over the years just not that one. Santa Cruz to Monterey drive - plan a road trip Your laptop deserves a proper pack, and we know a good few! My boyfriend & I are planning a trip to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Sip a glass of wine aboard the Chardonnay II. This hostel has comfortable beds, modern amenities and boasts a friendly, welcoming and social atmosphere. Email [emailprotected] to find out how. It is ideally located at the heart of the city and is a quick walk to the restaurants, Santa Cruz attractions and bars of the Downtown, the Boardwalk and Midtown neighbourhoods. Both areas have a lot to do. I think between (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? For Dead Doctors Don't Lie Use: 888-379-2552 The Midtown/Seabright neighbourhood is packed with bustling bars and buzzing breweries where you can enjoy a laidback drink or two. Sip drinks and enjoy cheap bars games at lively One Double Oh Seven Club. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. I always put up overflow family at the Holiday Inn Express during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. I hear the beaches there are nice so we're considering Twin Lakes State Beach & Manresa. It has a great central location and is within walking distance of bars, bistros and the beach. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77301030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Santa Cruz! It is especially good if this is your first time visiting. The Best Western in Aptos is one of our best recommendation for where to stay in Santa Cruz for families. 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 Monterey is more coastal - there are some beaches too, but the coastline is rocky so the focus is more on scenery and wildlife. Would you recommend one? More information. Satisfy your sweet tooth with delicious salt-water taffy. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172993', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nepenthe. Thanks SO much :). 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. What do you think? 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. . Both are good choices, it really depends on the atmosphere that you want. Inside its quaint Victorian facade lie 69 well-appointed rooms, some of which are pet-friendly, too. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to SF. 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. Like Kibblesmom said, they are only 45 minutes apart. Answer 1 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. 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. Have a fun trip! As a member of our team, you can too.We haveSee this and similar jobs on LinkedIn. The Best Western is ideally located in Capitola, Santa Cruzs best neighbourhood for hipsters, trendsetters and cool kids. This article was written by travellers for travellers. We do not represent World Nomads. HI-Santa Cruz Hostel is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. You could also visit nearby Carmel which is one of our favorite towns on the CA coast. Do you enjoy luxury or more budget-oriented accommodations? Surf City Inn & Suites is your best bet for budget Santa Cruz accommodation in Midtown. Rooms are well-equipped with a kitchenette and guests can enjoy on-demand movies and a spa bathtub. And it is farther from stuff. Walk the tiny .6-mile-long . Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. Drink fresh and handcrafted beers at the Seabright Brewery. You can find great Airbnbs like Seacliff House. Situated south of Downtown, the Boardwalk spans the seaside and is home to buzzing attractions, busy restaurants, and cosy cafes. 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. Both are good choices, it really depends on the atmosphere that you want. Road Trip: Where to stay Monterey or Santa Cruz? - Tripadvisor A couple, family w/kids, etc ? The earliest known filming took place in Monterey in 1897, compared to Santa Cruz's first foray into film in 1915. Grab a drink, enjoy the incredible beaches and laid-back vibes. Each room comes complete with a minibar, kitchenette and wireless internet access. I will definitely check into the train ride. Catch a show at Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. Its a great place to watch surfers. 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.). Set in central California, Santa Cruz is the epitome of west coast cool. It also boasts plenty of shops, restaurants, bars and landmarks. Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California - Located deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains, it is California's oldest state park. Also, I'm thinking of staying at the Best Western in Morro Bay. Dig into an amazing meal any time of day at Ideal Bar & Grill. 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. :) Can anyone help me figure out what is the best way to plan this?? Traffic is nothing like what you find in the big city (except during events like Car Week). We like the dining scene a lot more in Monterey-Carmel, but inexpensive eats are easier to find in Santa Cruz. Most hotels are fully refundable. For things to see on the Monterey Peninsula see https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g580824-Activities-Monterey_Peninsula_California.html Comfortable, big and close to the beach this family Airbnb is perfect for holidays together. Santa Cruz has a more tie-dye and granola feel . Hearst Castle is currently closed due to COVID. 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. This unit was designed and built by an architect who has a great eye for style and detail. Looking for a specific place to stay? Where to Stay in Monterey or Carmel, CA: The Best Hotels I have the time but worry about the length of the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? You won't regret it. Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor We were planning to stay in Monterey one night. Monterey is best for families and budget-conscious travellers, while Carmel is best for couples, foodies and shoppers. Carmel Beach is beautiful for romantic walks and just enjoying the view, but the water is cold and rip currents are common. The aquarium in Monterey is VERY worth going to. It is comprised of 16 modern rooms with an excellent array of amenities and features. Is Santa Cruz better than Monterey? - YourQuickInfo Eat incredible and fresh seafood, pasta and more at Caf Rio. It is worth a half day plus to go to Monterey, see the acquarium, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It has 63 spacious rooms, free wifi and an outdoor pool. 1190 WARREN DR, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060 - montereybayprop.com You are coming in Sept and the fire is supposed to be out by August end. This excellent three-star hotel is set in central Midtown, one of the best places in Santa Cruz to stay for nightlife. 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. This nature-rich . 7855 Monterra Oaks Rd, Monterey, CA 93940 - MLS ML81920539 - Coldwell World Nomads mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. The Rio Vista Inn is our favourite hotel in Santa Cruz. I would choose one location and spend 2 nights. This is our first trip alone in quite a few years & I want it be fun, romantic & relaxing! Close, Where to Stay in Santa Cruz, California (2023 COOLEST Areas! Posted 2:23:02 AM. Even at its warmest, the ocean along the California coast remains cool compared to beaches in the tropics or even Florida. Of course, Henry Cowell state park is closer to Santa Cruz, so SC would be more convenient for that. If you do choose to spend the night in Santa Cruz, then you can see Monterey on your way to Big Sur. Set at the heart of the city, this hotel is a short walk to great dining, nightlife, shopping and sightseeing options. Just as close to everything. If you choose Santa Cruz, check rates at the Dream Inn or Sea and Sand. 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. It is world class. Best Places to stay along the Pacific Coast Highway The Municipal Wharf is near the Boardwalk and Stagnaro Bros. takes boats out on the Bay for whale watching. We stayed in Cambria overnight, it took about 4hours to get there. . Still not sure which of Santa Cruzs best neighbourhoods is right for you? 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. It also offers easy access to the beach as well as many of Santa Cruzs most famous attractions and landmarks. 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. Monterey Properties; Santa Clara Properties; Santa Cruz Properties; Fresno Properties; Short Term Rentals; List Your Rental; Residents; Owners; Contact; Blog; FAQs; Pay Rent. Monterey is more coastal than beachy, if that makes sense. An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! Shop until you drop at the Pacific Garden Mall. Address: 652 Cannery Row, Monterey City Center, Monterey (CA), United States, 93940. Driving from LA to Monterey - First time - help. :) Report inappropriate content november_moon San Jose, California Destination Expert for California Level Contributor 24,101 posts 138 reviews 71 helpful votes 8. It is an up-and-coming hipster hub that boasts a vast array of bike shops and furniture stores as well as rustic cafes, hip restaurants, and buzzing live music venues. If you are coming by Air or Train, San Jose is the best destination. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172993', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nepenthe. Highway 1 through Santa Cruz has a lot of traffic in mornings and after 3. The most breathtaking part of the drive is through Big Sur, which is the stretch of coast between Cambria and Carmel. Natural Bridges and other beach parks. This is a good one - heavily visited, but not as busy as the main beach. From Monterey to Santa Cruz expect a slow down through Moss Landing. They are located at opposite ends of the same bay, so the area for whale watching is pretty much the same from either town. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Santa Cruz is more beachy - lots of wide, sandy beaches, a good surf culture, historic seaside amusement park, eclectic downtown, etc. There are some nice restaurants but not as many as Monterey or Carmel. Mornings going north, afternoon going south. (Click on California Coast June '11), Driving routes and options from SFO to Monterey. And for transparencys sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. 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. 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. Get excited here are our best recommendations for where to stay in Santa Cruz, California, USA. With all of the educational institutions we have, it has an international feel to it, and many good restaurants. Santa Cruz vs Monterrey/Carmel First Timer. Please help! :) $209. Go for a hike through Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. 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. Check out the Mnin-Mokre, Voivodia de Santa Cruz, Polnia WinterCast. Looking for exceptional deals on Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Westside Santa Cruz vacation packages? Browse the buzzing Sunday Art & Music at the Beach events throughout the summer. That is, as long as you don't get stuck in traffic. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car ride. From $113.05 per night. The apartment is very bright, furnished beautifully and offers so much comfort from a massive bed to a great living area. You won't regret it. For Sale - 7855 Monterra Oaks Rd, Monterey, CA - $1,900,000. 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.