The reviews on Tripadvisor are not encouraging. :) Can anyone help me figure out what is the best way to plan this?? The most breathtaking part of the drive is through Big Sur, which is the stretch of coast between Cambria and Carmel. 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. Even if your kids don''t surf, it is fascinating to watch tht surfers from the bluff. Also, I'm thinking of staying at the Best Western in Morro Bay. I find people to be friendly, generally. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Cheer on the D-League Santa Cruz Warriors or the Santa Cruz Derby Girls at the Kaiser Permanent Area. Each room comes complete with a minibar, kitchenette and wireless internet access. Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruises A humpback whale breaches in Monterey Bay. 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. The very next year there were bare feet and jeans and long hair and granny dresses. 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. Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California - Located deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains, it is California's oldest state park. Santa Cruzs 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in, #1 Downtown Where to Stay in Santa Cruz for Your First Time, #2 The Boardwalk Where to Stay in Santa Cruz on a Budget, #3 Midtown Where to Stay in Santa Cruz for Nightlife, #4 Capitola Coolest Place to Stay in Santa Cruz, #5 Aptos Where to Stay in Santa Cruz for Families, FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Santa Cruz, Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Santa Cruz. Do you have any recommendations? During the summer the surf on Carmel city beach is relatively tame, and people do play in the water, but not without some risk. Monterey Hotel Deals; Here is a traveler article on Santa Cruz to help describe it. 5:52 pm Paso Robles eat at Niner Wine Estates stay overnight at Summerwood Winery and Inn Be sure and visit Capitola Village while in the Santa Cruz area. With all of the educational institutions we have, it has an international feel to it, and many good restaurants. Founded on June 3, 1770, it was the capital of Alta California under both Spain and Mexico. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Set at the heart of the city, this hotel is a short walk to great dining, nightlife, shopping and sightseeing options. I think my kids would love it. Its fun and your younger kids would probably love it. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Most hotels are fully refundable. It's beautiful there and lots of things to see and do beyond the aquarium. Posted 2:23:02 AM. The Monterey Hotel (from USD 112) Come and experience full-blown comfort at The Monterey Hotel. There are no modern hippies. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. Santa Cruz seamlessly blends its relaxed beach lifestyle with a vibrant culture and some high tech industry. It is only a few years old and is a very nice hotel. Highway 1 Gate: This 17-Mile Drive entrance is off of exit 399A. From Monterey to Santa Cruz expect a slow down through Moss Landing. It has 63 spacious rooms, free wifi and an outdoor pool. Listen to live music at the Kuumbwa Jazz Centre. The beach at Capitola Village is good - there are a lot of shops and restaurants just off the beach, so that can be fun. Our decision now is what to do with the THREE DAYS we have. Monterey is more coastal and less beachy. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. My family of four is taking a 13 day trip to San Francisco (3 days), Yosemite (2 days) and down the coast ending in LA. The best one is the Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, further down on Ocean Street. I would take Hwy 101 north to San Luis Obispo and pick up Hwy 1 there. For Dead Doctors Don't Lie Use: 888-379-2552 It has great features, like a swimming pool and tennis courts, and each room is well-equipped with a private bathroom and a kitchenette. I would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. In Santa Cruz County, the fun only begins at the beach. Your first stop should be the classic Californian beach town of Santa Cruz. Grab a drink at the Asti, an old-school dive bar. 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. It's possible to stay anywhere in the area and get to everything else fairly fast. Get answers to your questions about Monterey, Monterey Peninsula Trip Report w/photos. There are several Best Westerns in town. Henry Cowell is 15 minutes away. HI-Santa Cruz Hostel is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. It was incredible. The earliest known filming took place in Monterey in 1897, compared to Santa Cruz's first foray into film in 1915. Your laptop deserves a proper pack, and we know a good few! Seattle's most famous hotel, The Edgewater, is right along the waterfront, and a perfect way to relax before a long multi-day drive. Things to Do. Located in the best position, you wont have to walk far to the main hotspots youll definitely enjoy your time at this place. Since youre staying two nights in Big Sur you can easily see Monterey while there. Monterey. One night in each is a lot of moving without covering much distance. It'll be cheaper. ), Bougie-coffee lover and staunch enemy of coriander; TEFL-certified language teacher, linguist, and aspiring polyglot. Do you enjoy luxury or more budget-oriented accommodations? If you like to stay at a motel and do the Boardwalk, Santa Cruz is more your liking stay there. Answer 11 of 15: Hi - I'm traveling to California early next August. 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. We are even usually warmer that Pismo Beach because our beaches face south. Take that one, as its beautiful and different from Highway 1. I've put together a San Francisco city guide to give you some ideas. I've just now been informed that the beach isn't really safe to swim in. :) Report inappropriate content november_moon San Jose, California Destination Expert for California Level Contributor 24,123 posts 138 reviews 71 helpful votes 8. I have the time but worry about the length of the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Stay the night in Carmel or Monterey and leave early for Big Sur. Surf City Inn & Suites is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. The Best Western is ideally located in Capitola, Santa Cruzs best neighbourhood for hipsters, trendsetters and cool kids. Heres what people usually ask us about the areas of Santa Cruz and where to stay. As to which town, I prefer Santa Cruz, but I think Monterey has better restaurants. Another excellent option is the Rio Vista Inn & Suites Santa Cruz. Los Angeles to Monterey via Hwy 101/1 - concerns Best places to eat in Monterey and or Carmel area, Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel. We do not represent World Nomads. Best Boutique Hotels in Monterey. 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. You can whale watch from either town. Or spend a night or two in both to maximize your time on the coast. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. It has shifted to meth heads and needles. Nobody remembers that this was happening all over the country. I will definitely check into the train ride. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172993', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nepenthe. Also.. is Santa Cruz a better beach destination for those that actually want to spend a little time in the water? Should we. Close, Where to Stay in Santa Cruz, California (2023 COOLEST Areas! Downtown Santa Cruz is the best neighbourhood in Santa Crus to stay in if youre visiting for the first time. 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. Feast on fresh and delicious seafood and more at Stagnaro Bros. Go for a stroll along the Santa Cruz Wharf and spot local wildlife like sea lions, whales, birds and more. Capitola (12 answers) Rooms are well-equipped with a kitchenette and guests can enjoy on-demand movies and a spa bathtub. Looking for exceptional deals on Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Westside Santa Cruz vacation packages? If youre still not sure where to stay in Santa Cruz, consider checking out these amazing treehouses in California! Would you recommend one? Would one be better than the other for dinner/accommodations? 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. 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. Have a fun trip! I am considering whale watching and hiking in the Henry Cowell Redwood park among other things. Is Santa Cruz safe? We were planning to stay in Monterey one night. 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. For things to see on the Monterey Peninsula see https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g580824-Activities-Monterey_Peninsula_California.html If you want classic beach stuff - laying out, volleyball, playing in the waves, Santa Cruz is what you want. Monterey (Spanish: Monterrey; Ohlone: Aacistak) is a city located in Monterey County on the southern edge of Monterey Bay on California's Central Coast. We recommend Downtown. Catch a show at Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to. Inspirational places to stay near beaches, redwood forests or in quaint seaside towns offer an array of choices when it comes to amenities and settings. Should I drive hwy 1 that part of the journey? They won't hurt yu. Santa Cruzs Boardwalk neighbourhood is one of the liveliest and most vibrant districts in the city. 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. Hi - I'm traveling to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The Rio Vista Inn is our favourite hotel in Santa Cruz. 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. The Ritz Carlton - If you can afford it then this is the place to stay. 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. No matter where you are in the neighbourhood, youll find yourself surrounded by great tunes. 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. 831-372 . 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. However, just to confuse things I believe that they have merged the two into "Twin Lakes State Beach". Monterey is more coastal - there are some beaches too, but the coastline is rocky so the focus is more on scenery and wildlife. There are some nice restaurants but not as many as Monterey or Carmel. 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. Hwy 101 is nicely scenic though too. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. The Municipal Wharf is near the Boardwalk and Stagnaro Bros. takes boats out on the Bay for whale watching. 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. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car ride. This article was written by travellers for travellers. The downtown areass of Monterey and Carmel are nicer. Also, can any give me some input on hwy1 from LA up to San Simeon. It seems like there are lots of mom and pop hotels. What is your lodging budget? 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). What is your next planned stop and how many days/nights total do you have for the coastal section of your trip? Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Cruz, an IHG Hotel. 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-41998478', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');West Cliff Drive. Santa Cruzs downtown district is also where youll find the local arts scene. It really just depends on what you are looking for. Find quality homes and apartments for rent and property management in Santa Clara, San Jose, Monterey and elsewhere in coastal Central California. Santa Cruz is more of a beachy town with lots of wide, sandy beaches, the Boardwalk amusement park, an eclectic downtown, strong surfing culture. The first class of the University of Santa Cruz campus in 1965 appeared in chinos and skirts and cashmere sweaters. 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 love Capitola. Another consideration is your overall plan - how many nights do you have for your drive down the coast? per night. Environmental activist Dan Haifley argues that Monterey Bay residents should care about and support the potential designation of tribally nominated Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary, covering waters off San Luis Obispo and northern Santa Barbara counties. Midtown is an eclectic neighbourhood located east of the city centre. 10:00 am start in Santa Cruz drive for about 47 minutes. This is the longest stretch. This post has been removed at the author's request. Do you have any recommendations? 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. Satisfy your sweet tooth with delicious salt-water taffy. 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. It is comprised of 16 modern rooms with an excellent array of amenities and features. 400 plus pictures, but I digress. These are our 3 favourite hotels in Santa Cruz: Rio Vista Inn & Suites Comfort Inn Boardwalk Hyatt Place Santa Cruz. A continental breakfast is also included in each reservation. Monterey is farther south, so if you only have 2 nights, then Monterey would break up the drive more evenly than Santa Cruz would. Like Kibblesmom said, they are only 45 minutes apart. The Capitola Venetian Hotel is close to everything the neighbourhood has to offer. Don't stay at any with "Boardwalk" in the name.. Right now, It's all a bit overwhelming so if anyone could help me figure out what's best I would really really appreciate it! Is Santa Cruz or Monterey more expensive? Monterey Tourism Monterey Hotels Monterey Guest House Monterey Holiday Homes Monterey Holiday Packages Monterey Flights . I hesitate to recommend either based on "must-sees" since that is such a personal decision. We're adjacent to Watsonville Municipal Airport, just minutes from Sunset State Beach and nearby golf courses, wineries and wildlife preserves. Right now Highway 1 isn't passable through the Big Sur area due to a road wash out. Santa Cruz has a more tie-dye and granola feel . The wharf and cannery row are more prominent in Monterey, and the aquarium is a big draw. Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. Monterey is more coastal than beachy, if that makes sense. Its kind of a funky sort of place, a bit off-beat. The main beach is right off the Boardwalk and next to the wharf - this will be the most crowded, but it has the Boardwalk there, so a lot of fun. This room allows you to have a great home while not having to empty your bank account completely. Spend another night closer to Santa Barbara. . Convenient private room is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. at the end of (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Shop until you drop at the Pacific Garden Mall. Theres also complimentary wifi. Thank you for your input. It is worth a half day plus to go to Monterey, see the acquarium, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. 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. The Best Western in Aptos is one of our best recommendation for where to stay in Santa Cruz for families. Visiting the coolest area of Santa Cruz requires staying at an even cooler place. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. 10:47 am Monterey stay for about 4 hours and leave at 2:47 pm drive for about 1 hour. Browse the buzzing Sunday Art & Music at the Beach events throughout the summer. Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. 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. We were in CA last June and stayed in Santa Cruz, and visited the Aquarium. Driving the coast from SF to LA. The seaside town of Santa Cruz is one of the coolest places in California. Be aware that the hosts live next door with their well-behaved dog (previous guests loved him). It is a great option for Santa Cruz accommodation because it has comfortable rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, and free wifi. The Broke Backpacker's Head of Administration, Art hails from North Florida where the elevation fails to reach even 5 meters. 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. Take 101, it's much more pleasant than I-5. 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. My plan now is to drive up from Pasadena to San Simeon via hwy 5 and then pick up hwy 1. Theres also a laundry service and pool on-site. See Bixby Creek Bridge, hike McWay Falls, spend time at San Dollar Beach before reaching San Luis Obispo for the night. I was trying to give a VERY general description as to how the areas differ. 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.
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