The Municipal Wharf is near the Boardwalk and Stagnaro Bros. takes boats out on the Bay for whale watching. It seems like there are lots of mom and pop hotels. Thanks everyone for the tips and recommendations. Answer 11 of 15: Hi - I'm traveling to California early next August. You can usually see plenty of marine wildlife from shore, especially if you go along the coastal recreation trail, which runs for miles. 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. There are some museums and movie theaters in the downtown area. 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. You could also visit nearby Carmel which is one of our favorite towns on the CA coast. Spend another night closer to Santa Barbara. There are several Best Westerns in town. Answer 1 of 19: Driving the coast from SF to LA. Hwy 101 is nicely scenic though too. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. I hear the beaches there are nice so we're considering Twin Lakes State Beach & Manresa. 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. Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Cruz, an IHG Hotel. I second the idea of overnighting in Santa Barbara, perhaps taking in Solvang en route. And conversely, if you choose to stay in Monterey, you can see SC on the way there. 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. Our top pick for where to stay in Santa Cruz for nightlife, this area is bursting with bars, restaurants and clubs where you can enjoy plenty of after-dark fun. 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. This is our first trip alone in quite a few years & I want it be fun, romantic & relaxing! No matter where you are in the neighbourhood, youll find yourself surrounded by great tunes. 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 is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. It is a really vibrant and colourful area of Santa Barbara, and it reallys really unique. Both areas have a lot to do. I would hang around Morro Bay for some water activity and marine mammal observation. Maybe that's why he's in love with the Andes, where you'll find him in the local cafs ordering the. In this Santa Cruz neighbourhood guide, well look at the best places to stay based on what you want to do. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. If you have a map, start at the San Lorenzo River and go south the the Yacht Harbor. 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. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Monterey or Carmel to Big Sur The best place to stay if embarking upon a Big Sur day trip is Carmel or Monterey. Answer 1 of 15: Hi - I'm traveling to California early next August. The wharf and cannery row are more prominent in Monterey, and the aquarium is a big draw. Thanks! The Broke Backpacker's Head of Administration, Art hails from North Florida where the elevation fails to reach even 5 meters. If you are coming by Air or Train, San Jose is the best destination. Monterey has more wildlife-focused sites to visit. It is ideally located at the heart of the city and is a quick walk to the restaurants, attractions and bars of the Downtown, the Boardwalk and Midtown neighbourhoods. In short, Santa Cruz is without a doubt one of Californias best-kept secrets. The city of Santa Cruz boasts a string of sandy beaches and a historic wharf. Open to suggestions. 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. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? It was incredible. My plan now is to drive up from Pasadena to San Simeon via hwy 5 and then pick up hwy 1. It is especially good if this is your first time visiting. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. It's a small, funky lil beach town with shops, casual restaurants & beach access. From here, head up H-17 toward Felton for your first stop at Roaring Camp Railroads.Catch the steam train for an unforgettable ride through the magnificent redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains until you reach the end of the line at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Mar 5 - Mar 6. . Should I drive hwy 1 that part of the journey? Once you hit Ventura, then you'll be on the coast through Santa Barbara. Twin Lakes Beach is a good one. Monterey is more coastal - there are some beaches too, but the coastline is rocky so the focus is more on scenery and wildlife. It is worth a half day plus to go to Monterey, see the acquarium, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Monterey. Two of the most popular beach(es) in Santa Cruz itself are Seabright and Twin Lakes. Dine on delicious dishes at 100 Mile Meals, a concept restaurant that only uses local goods. Have a fun trip! From $113.05 per night. Carmel has a great little white sand beach and a European cottagey vibe with lots of boutique stores (it is a pretty unique little community), Pacific Grove has Victorian B and B's but other more casual lodging with coastal bluff walkways. On the first leg, we are trying to decide if we should sleep in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? Th most breathtaking of Highway 1 is when you leave the Cambria area for the next 2hours. Like Kibblesmom said, they are only 45 minutes apart. Earn free nights and get our Price Guarantee - booking has never been easier on Hotels.com! 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. On the first leg, we are trying to decide if we should sleep in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? The beautiful interior design will make you feel comfortable and at home. This charming hotel is one of our top picks for where to stay in Santa Cruz with kids if youre on a budget. They won't hurt yu. 10:47 am Monterey stay for about 4 hours and leave at 2:47 pm drive for about 1 hour. Re: Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? The room is spacious, with a comfy bed and has a private bathroom. 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. Best 3-Star/4-Star Hotels in Monterey. 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) It has pristine beaches and a laid back atmosphere, while also boasting incredible food, lively nightlife and lush natural surroundings. Hi - I'm traveling to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Youll find plenty of bars, shops, restaurants, and the beach is within walking distance. All rights reserved. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77293425', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Santa Cruz will never live down the fact that the University was founded just before the 60's revolution", 50 years ago, by the way. netllama 7 yr. ago The driving time between Monterrey & Santa Cruz is about an hour. World Nomads mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. 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. Yes, finding a room which would hold a family of 6 is definitely a problem. What is your lodging budget? Hi - I'm traveling to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Santa Cruz is more of a beachy town with lots of wide, sandy beaches, the Boardwalk amusement park, an eclectic downtown, strong surfing culture. When you're ready to start your road trip, head to Lands End then drive south along the coast. Thanks! This nature-rich . Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. Our Trip started in Santa Monica ending in SF. The Comfort Inn hotel in Watsonville, CA is near Capitola Beach, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay Aquarium offering free hot breakfast & more! 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. Natural Bridges and other beach parks. Shop for everything from souvenirs to fine art and pottery in Rio del Mar. Browse the tiny but interesting Aptos History Museum. I would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. This charming hotel is an excellent place to make your base in Capitola because there are plenty of shopping, dining and nightlife options nearby. Don't know if your kids would be that interested in that, mine were 20 and 17 so it was different for us. The ocean is cold but you can swim in it especially from Capitola south. It is a great option for Santa Cruz accommodation because it has comfortable rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, and free wifi. We have interest in outdoor eating, swimming/lounging on the beach, live music and natures beauty (but we're not huge hikers or anything). There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. Kickstart your day with a filling and delicious breakfast at Zeldas. I've just now been informed that the beach isn't really safe to swim in. The Municipal Wharf is near the Boardwalk and Stagnaro Bros. takes boats out on the Bay for whale watching. 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. 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. You are coming in Sept and the fire is supposed to be out by August end. Pop by the La Selva Library, which regularly hosts family-friendly events. This excellent three-star hotel is set in central Midtown, one of the best places in Santa Cruz to stay for nightlife. Escape the crowds at artsy and secluded Capitola Beach. When we vacation, we hike, bike, kayak, surf, horse-back rideyou get the idea. Do you have any recommendations? The aquarium in Monterey is VERY worth going to. Monterey Properties; Santa Clara Properties; Santa Cruz Properties; Fresno Properties; Short Term Rentals; List Your Rental; Residents; Owners; Contact; Blog; FAQs; Pay Rent. Hearst Castle is currently closed due to COVID. 10:00 am start in Santa Cruz drive for about 47 minutes. It will make traffic difficult in that area. Is this true? It is worth a half day plus to go to Monterey, see the acquarium, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Or spend a night or two in both to maximize your time on the coast. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car ride. Be aware that the hosts live next door with their well-behaved dog (previous guests loved him). It has a eucalyptus grove where Monarch butterflies stay over the winter when they are migrating. Walking distance from the famous pier but you can rent bikes form them as well. We took 101 from LA to Canbria and it was just a gorgeous drive..I wouldn't have imagined that. Your laptop deserves a proper pack, and we know a good few! You can pretty much expect all indoor attractions to be closed until conditions improve markedly. Situated south of Downtown, the Boardwalk spans the seaside and is home to buzzing attractions, busy restaurants, and cosy cafes. The best one is the Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, further down on Ocean Street. 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. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. Since (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Even if your kids don''t surf, it is fascinating to watch tht surfers from the bluff. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Not true. There are loads of places that are great for family days out, and of course, the beach. The Monterey Hotel (from USD 112) Come and experience full-blown comfort at The Monterey Hotel. Wake up early and enjoy the beautiful view of the sea, beach and wharf right from your window. Then you head inland a bit, still scenic though, and meet back up with the coast later. Stay in Monterey or Carmel. Traffic is nothing like what you find in the big city (except during events like Car Week). My website describes local beaches in further detail: http://www.montereypeninsula.info/guide/beaches.htm. Itinerary. This is the best hostel in Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz does have a scenic ocean area like Monterey and Carmel. 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-77279322', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey and Santa Cruz are only 45 minutes apart, you can easily stay in one and visit the other, if you wish. Santa Cruz has a more tie-dye and granola feel . Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. Explore the streets, shops and bars of colourful Capitola Village. Convenient private room is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. 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. Compare 578 hotels, room rates, hotel reviews and availability. And oftentimes good food in that range. 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. :) Can anyone help me figure out what is the best way to plan this?? It has 63 spacious rooms, free wifi and an outdoor pool. Downtown Santa Cruz is the best neighbourhood in Santa Crus to stay in if youre visiting for the first time. And it is farther from stuff. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. You won't regret it. This is a good one - heavily visited, but not as busy as the main beach. Enjoy an awesome meal with a great view at Sanderlings Restaurant. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. You might want to consider two adjoining rooms. Henry Cowell is 15 minutes away. This is north of the Boardwalk area. Monterey is more coastal - there are some beaches too, but the coastline is rocky so the focus is more on scenery and wildlife. 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. In Santa Cruz, I have it tentatively narrowed down to the Holiday Inn Express or the Best Western. 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 . 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. It is conveniently located near the Boardwalk and there are plenty of shops, restaurants and bars within walking distance. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to SF. Via: Where should I stop along the way? 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. Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox. It's myself and my husband and we are going the first week in May. With all of the educational institutions we have, it has an international feel to it, and many good restaurants. Half Moon Bay. If approved by the National Ocean and Atmospheric Association, the new sanctuary will provide the missing link in a chain of . Get an early start to the day with a delightful breakfast at Bill's Caf in charming Willow Glen before hitting the road. The beach at Capitola Village is good - there are a lot of shops and restaurants just off the beach, so that can be fun. 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. HI-Santa Cruz Hostel is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. Instead of staying "in Monterey" you might enjoy Carmel by the Sea or even Pacific Grove more as they are small towns by the water. Find quality homes and apartments for rent and property management in Santa Clara, San Jose, Monterey and elsewhere in coastal Central California. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Capitola is a beachside neighbourhood bursting with a European flair. 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. Surf City Inn & Suites is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. Then you head inland a bit, still scenic though, and meet back up with the coast later. 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. Set at the heart of the city, this hotel is a short walk to great dining, nightlife, shopping and sightseeing options. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172993', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nepenthe. What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? I will definitely check into the train ride. Santa Cruz is more of a classic CA beach town with a surf culture and an eclectic downtown. 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. Thanks all! We like the dining scene a lot more in Monterey-Carmel, but inexpensive eats are easier to find in Santa Cruz. We were planning to stay in Monterey one night. You can whale watch from either town. Not only will you find the citys only hostel here, but this neighbourhood is packed with delicious cheap eats and inexpensive activities to enjoy. With over 14 state parks, wineries, museums, farmer's markets, surfing, shopping, and family fun activities, there are plenty of things to do. (Click on California Coast June '11), Driving routes and options from SFO to Monterey. Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. Have a fun trip! The most breathtaking part of the drive is through Big Sur, which is the stretch of coast between Cambria and Carmel. Aptos is our top pick for families. 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. Our decision now is what to do with the THREE DAYS we have. Home; For Rent. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to. Highway 1 is washed out and closed. 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. 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. Day 1: San Francisco to Monterey Be sure to spend some time in San Fran before you leave! I think the decision really depends on what you want to do and see and your overall plan. Shop until you drop at the Pacific Garden Mall. This is also the best area in Santa Cruz to stay in for nightlife. It seems like there are lots of mom and pop hotels. 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. The downtown areass of Monterey and Carmel are nicer. Driving the coast from SF to LA. Highway 1 Gate: This 17-Mile Drive entrance is off of exit 399A. I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpackers. Is your phone eSIM ready? Sip seaside cocktails at Bay Bar and Grill. Currently we have the below planned. The most breathtaking part of the drive is through Big Sur, which is the stretch of coast between Cambria and Carmel. Monterey is best for families and budget-conscious travellers, while Carmel is best for couples, foodies and shoppers. Surf City Inn & Suites is your best bet for budget Santa Cruz accommodation in Midtown. 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. The aquarium in Monterey is a big draw, and it is very good. Our Trip started in Santa Monica ending in SF. Flora Vista Inn is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now.
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