Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? The ocean is cold but you can swim in it especially from Capitola south. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. 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. Twin Lakes is the next beach, just on the other side of the harbor. Here's hoping that warms you up a bit this brisk Thursday morning. 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. Required fields are marked *. 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. In Santa Cruz, you can travel from the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary to the Redwoods without a car. Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. My website describes local beaches in further detail: http://www.montereypeninsula.info/guide/beaches.htm. It has large rooms with air conditioning, private bathroom and contemporary amenities. We really appreciate & are super excited about our adventure! 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. Browse the incredible and creative exhibits at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History. For Dead Doctors Don't Lie Use: 888-379-2552 For things to see on the Monterey Peninsula see https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g580824-Activities-Monterey_Peninsula_California.html As a member of our team, you can too.We haveSee this and similar jobs on LinkedIn. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172993', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nepenthe. Convenient private room is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. On the first leg, we are trying to decide if we should sleep in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Surf City Inn & Suites is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. I second the idea of overnighting in Santa Barbara, perhaps taking in Solvang en route. It is a really vibrant and colourful area of Santa Barbara, and it reallys really unique. A great way to access transportation options in Santa Cruz is to visit www.Cruz511.org. Avila Beach is warm in that area. Go for a hike through Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. 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. I hear the beaches there are nice so we're considering Twin Lakes State Beach & Manresa. Try to help and people have to go on a rant. 831-372 . Your first stop should be the classic Californian beach town of Santa Cruz. Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! 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. Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? This is also the best area in Santa Cruz to stay in for nightlife. I would take Hwy 101 north to San Luis Obispo and pick up Hwy 1 there. 10:00 am start in Santa Cruz drive for about 47 minutes. 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. The beach is wide and good for walking. Shop for everything from souvenirs to fine art and pottery in Rio del Mar. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Cruz, an IHG Hotel. If you want classic beach stuff - laying out, volleyball, playing in the waves, Santa Cruz is what you want. It also boasts plenty of shops, restaurants, bars and landmarks. You can pretty much expect all indoor attractions to be closed until conditions improve markedly. Rooms are equipped with A/C and also feature hair dryers, showers and ceiling fans. There are some nice restaurants but not as many as Monterey or Carmel. It has a eucalyptus grove where Monarch butterflies stay over the winter when they are migrating. If you want to go a more scenic way along the CA Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway or the PCH), then plan that to take you about 2.25-2.5 hours. The price is $209 per night. Mar 5 - Mar 6. . 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. Oceana Inn Santa Cruz is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. Continue travelling east along the coast to Capitola. . Take a photo at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay for some great memories without a hefty price tag. There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. 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. Instead, buy an eSIM! Your email address will not be published. Both are good choices, it really depends on the atmosphere that you want. 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. Walking distance from the famous pier but you can rent bikes form them as well. Maybe that's why he's in love with the Andes, where you'll find him in the local cafs ordering the. These are our 3 favourite hotels in Santa Cruz: Rio Vista Inn & Suites Comfort Inn Boardwalk Hyatt Place Santa Cruz. 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 ? Even at its warmest, the ocean along the California coast remains cool compared to beaches in the tropics or even Florida. tour along the Highway 1 from San Francisco to LA? Is Santa Cruz or Monterey more expensive? 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. Fun place! Id say Santa Cruz is aimed at a younger audience. 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. The aquarium is but one attraction in that area. Compare 580 hotels in Santa Cruz using 17,179 real guest reviews. There are loads of places that are great for family days out, and of course, the beach. Is Santa Cruz safe? Sip a glass of wine aboard the Chardonnay II. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to. Listen to live music at the Kuumbwa Jazz Centre. Twin Lakes Beach is a good one. Drink fresh and handcrafted beers at the Seabright Brewery. Yes, finding a room which would hold a family of 6 is definitely a problem. Our Trip started in Santa Monica ending in SF. The room is spacious, with a comfy bed and has a private bathroom. Also be aware that Highway 1 between (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The direct drive from Monterey to Santa Cruz is 43.5 mi (70 km), and should have a drive time of 49 mins in normal traffic. We took 101 from LA to Canbria and it was just a gorgeous drive..I wouldn't have imagined that. 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. Theres also complimentary wifi. 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). Take the second exit out of the roundabout, and follow the signs to Pebble Beach. Cheer on the D-League Santa Cruz Warriors or the Santa Cruz Derby Girls at the Kaiser Permanent Area. This is the best hostel in Santa Cruz. Surf City Inn & Suites is your best bet for budget Santa Cruz accommodation in Midtown. Santa Cruz. The city of Santa Cruz boasts a string of sandy beaches and a historic wharf. I am considering whale watching and hiking in the Henry Cowell Redwood park among other things. I concur with november moon. Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox. On the first leg, we are trying to decide if we should sleep in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? We are even usually warmer that Pismo Beach because our beaches face south. World Nomads mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. More than 200 films have been shot in Monterey County, and it's now home to HBO's acclaimed Big Little Lies. It is centrally located and within walking distance of the beach. If you have a map, start at the San Lorenzo River and go south the the Yacht Harbor. Tucked throughout the neighbourhood are a good variety of galleries and shops that showcase the excellent works of local artists, musicians, actors and writers. 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. It also extends on the other side of the harbor entrance. If approved by the National Ocean and Atmospheric Association, the new sanctuary will provide the missing link in a chain of . Aptos is our top pick for families. Monterey is more coastal - there are some beaches too, but the coastline is rocky so the focus is more on scenery and wildlife. Twin Lakes Beach is a good one. The Boardwalk is also our pick for the best neighbourhood in Santa Cruz to stay in if youre on a budget. Henry Cowell is 15 minutes away. Weve tested countless packs over the years, and now weve found our absolute favourite: the nomad-approved Nomatic Travel Bag. We've also never been to Cali if that makes a difference. Its just that easy. Your laptop deserves a proper pack, and we know a good few! Each room comes complete with a minibar, kitchenette and wireless internet access. We watched it that morning and DS said it was his favorite gift. I would choose one location and spend 2 nights. With over 14 state parks, wineries, museums, farmer's markets, surfing, shopping, and family fun activities, there are plenty of things to do. 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. Henry Cowell is 15 minutes away. Aptos is a serene and stunning neighbourhood located just east of Santa Cruz. . netllama 7 yr. ago The driving time between Monterrey & Santa Cruz is about an hour. Downtown is a large neighbourhood located in central Santa Cruz. Is your phone eSIM ready? At Pitney Bowes, we do the right thing, the right way. Also.. is Santa Cruz a better beach destination for those that actually want to spend a little time in the water? Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. Not true. It has a great central location and is within walking distance of bars, bistros and the beach. Theres also a laundry service and pool on-site. Grab a drink, enjoy the incredible beaches and laid-back vibes. I will definitely check into the train ride. Youll find plenty of bars, shops, restaurants, and the beach is within walking distance. The other difference between the areas you mention is that Carmel is higher-end real estate. Both are good choices. Get an early start to the day with a delightful breakfast at Bill's Caf in charming Willow Glen before hitting the road. Have a fun trip! I am considering whale watching and hiking in the Henry Cowell Redwood park among other things. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. 2023, The Broke Backpacker. 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. You can usually see plenty of marine wildlife from shore, especially if you go along the coastal recreation trail, which runs for miles. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. This historic motel in Santa Cruz is one of the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. 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. 1 big room with queen bed and a futon in the living room that turns into a bed. Hi - I'm traveling to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? That is, as long as you don't get stuck in traffic. 1. 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. Walking in Carmel reminded me of being in a European town with it's interesting storefronts, side streets and small nooks and crannies. 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. Also we are 25 & 26 and are not big wine drinkers. It is a great option for Santa Cruz accommodation because it has comfortable rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, and free wifi. Open to suggestions. Thanks to yall we decided to spend the first two days in SF, then two days in Santa Cruz & visit Carmel during our stay if we need a change of scenery and then back to SF on Friday (since we fly out saturday morning we figured we might as well be closer to the airport). Its fun and your younger kids would probably love it. Delve deep into history at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. Breakfast options. 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. I hesitate to recommend either based on "must-sees" since that is such a personal decision. The beautiful interior design will make you feel comfortable and at home. Best Boutique Hotels in Monterey. 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 . Satisfy your sweet tooth with delicious salt-water taffy. Its fun and your younger kids would probably love it. Sip drinks and enjoy cheap bars games at lively One Double Oh Seven Club. Best deals for Monterey Bay Aquarium tickets? When you're ready to start your road trip, head to Lands End then drive south along the coast. The Rio Vista Inn is our favourite hotel in Santa Cruz. It will be warmer here, so if you want a beach day this is your place. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. Monterey Hotel Deals; What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? Be aware that the hosts live next door with their well-behaved dog (previous guests loved him). If youre still not sure where to stay in Santa Cruz, consider checking out these amazing treehouses in California! Our decision now is what to do with the THREE DAYS we have. 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. This hotel has 49 cosy, clean and comfortable rooms. In short, Santa Cruz is without a doubt one of Californias best-kept secrets. Monterey Properties; Santa Clara Properties; Santa Cruz Properties; Fresno Properties; Short Term Rentals; List Your Rental; Residents; Owners; Contact; Blog; FAQs; Pay Rent. Monterey has a great bike path. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-109323473', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Francisco to Santa Cruz or Monterrey. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to SF. Re: Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Carmel Gate: The south gate into Pebble Beach, this entrance can be accessed by following San Antonio Avenue through Carmel-by-the-Sea. Santa Cruzs Boardwalk neighbourhood is one of the liveliest and most vibrant districts in the city. Theres also an outdoor swimming pool and a Jacuzzi. I think between (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Located in the best position, you wont have to walk far to the main hotspots youll definitely enjoy your time at this place. Midtown is an eclectic neighbourhood located east of the city centre. 400 plus pictures, but I digress. What do you think? We took 101 from LA to Canbria and it was just a gorgeous drive..I wouldn't have imagined that. It offers easy access to shops, restaurants and bars, and is close to the beach. We stayed in Cambria overnight, it took about 4hours to get there. East of the city centre is the Midtown/Seabright neighbourhood. Or spend a night or two in both to maximize your time on the coast. Half Moon Bay. 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'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to SF. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. We have two girls, 15 and 10 and are an active family and love adventure, the beach, amusement parks and nature. 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. Flexible booking options on most hotels. Travel south from here and youll arrive in the busy and buzzing Boardwalk neighbourhood. My biggest problem is finding rooms that accommodate 6. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. It really just depends on what you are looking for. The town has lots of motels which can sometimes help save on cost (depends when you go as summer is still high in this area as well). Forecasts the expected snowfall amount, snow accumulation, and with snowfall radar. Monterey or Carmel to Big Sur The best place to stay if embarking upon a Big Sur day trip is Carmel or Monterey. It is conveniently located near the Boardwalk and there are plenty of shops, restaurants and bars within walking distance. You might want to consider two adjoining rooms. 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. Do you have any recommendations? Answer 1 of 15: Hi - I'm traveling to California early next August. Hwy 101 is nicely scenic though too. The best one is the Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, further down on Ocean Street. Santa Cruz is more of a classic CA beach town with a surf culture and an eclectic downtown. Take 101, it's much more pleasant than I-5. My plan now is to drive up from Pasadena to San Simeon via hwy 5 and then pick up hwy 1. 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. 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. 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. Still not sure which of Santa Cruzs best neighbourhoods is right for you? Privacy can be the best cure for a hangover, which is why we chose this Airbnb for all of the nightlife enthusiasts. The Monerey Bay Aquarium is not to miss there. There is one near the Holiday Inn Express, which is on Ocean Street which leads into town and one at the Boardwalk. The downtown area of Santa Cruz is a bit funky but fun., I did see a person who was a street person once there with a backpacking cat. Like Kibblesmom said, they are only 45 minutes apart. 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. Should I: Stay at a hotel in Santa Cruz?. Its always been a big hit with the kids in our family. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. This post has been removed at the author's request. I've just now been informed that the beach isn't really safe to swim in. 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 would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. Seriously. This hostel has comfortable beds, modern amenities and boasts a friendly, welcoming and social atmosphere. Request additional information, schedule a showing, save to your property organizer. Compare 578 hotels, room rates, hotel reviews and availability. Hi - I'm traveling to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It is worth a half day plus to go to Monterey, see the acquarium, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Via: Where should I stop along the way? This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. My plan now is to drive up from Pasadena to San Simeon via hwy 5 and then pick up hwy 1. This colourful and European-esque neighbourhood is one of the coolest places to stay in Santa Cruz because it has great dining, pristine beaches and lots of things to see and do. Set at the heart of the city, this hotel is a short walk to great dining, nightlife, shopping and sightseeing options. Should I drive hwy 1 that part of the journey? Re: Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Also, I'm thinking of staying at the Best Western in Morro Bay. It is worth a half day plus to go to Monterey, see the acquarium, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. The downtown areass of Monterey and Carmel are nicer. Visiting the coolest area of Santa Cruz requires staying at an even cooler place. :) Report inappropriate content november_moon San Jose, California Destination Expert for California Level Contributor 24,123 posts 138 reviews 71 helpful votes 8. There are beaches, but the coastline is more rocky, which is beautiful and means that you have more opportunity to see sea animals. 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). This charming hotel is an excellent place to make your base in Capitola because there are plenty of shopping, dining and nightlife options nearby. What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? And conversely, if you choose to stay in Monterey, you can see SC on the way there. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to. The seaside town of Santa Cruz is one of the coolest places in California. 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. We arrive Monday afternoon and leave Saturday morning out of the San Francisco airport. Like Kibblesmom said, they are only 45 minutes apart. They won't hurt yu. Princess or sanctuary cruises (Whale watching). ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car ride. And let us not overlook Ostrichland in Buellton. For a vacation rental option, try this South Lake Union condo near the Space Needle ( from $160/night ). Edited: 01 June . Monterey (Spanish: Monterrey; Ohlone: Aacistak) is a city located in Monterey County on the southern edge of Monterey Bay on California's Central Coast. Monterey's 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in #1 Downtown - Where to stay in Monterey first time #2 Munras Avenue - Where to stay in Monterey on a budget #3 Cannery Row - Best area to stay in Monterey for nightlife #4 Pacific Grove - Coolest place to stay in Monterey #5 Cannery Row (FAMILY) - Best neighbourhood in Monterey for families It is located at the heart of Santa Cruz and is just a stones throw from great dining, shopping and nightlife options. The best one is the Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, further down on Ocean Street. Another excellent option is the Rio Vista Inn & Suites Santa Cruz. Situated south of Downtown, the Boardwalk spans the seaside and is home to buzzing attractions, busy restaurants, and cosy cafes. Monterey is more coastal and less beachy. Monterey is a quintessential north California ocean town in the USA and has a great population of marine wildlife and fresh seafood. Is there a decent midprice one? 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 ? I always put up overflow family at the Holiday Inn Express during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Carmel Beach is beautiful for romantic walks and just enjoying the view, but the water is cold and rip currents are common. Carmel, Pacific Grove, and Monterey are adjacent to one another.Santa Cruz would be further north. Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop! Youre connected. Again, thank you! Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, laundry facilities, a golf course and a restaurant. We were in CA last June and stayed in Santa Cruz, and visited the Aquarium. Want more deetz on why we love itso damn much? Enjoy a great selection of sweet and savoury dishes at the Crepe Place, a longstanding Santa Cruz favourite. Rooms are well-equipped with a kitchenette and guests can enjoy on-demand movies and a spa bathtub. Natural Bridges State Beach is excellent. Note that nightlife is laregely confined to weekends in Santa Cruz.