Address: 652 Cannery Row, Monterey City Center, Monterey (CA), United States, 93940. Where to Stay in Monterey or Carmel, CA: The Best Hotels Carmel Gate: The south gate into Pebble Beach, this entrance can be accessed by following San Antonio Avenue through Carmel-by-the-Sea. Driving the coast from SF to LA. KSCO Live Show: 831-479-1080 KSCO Office: 831-475-1080 Important! Twin Lakes is the next beach, just on the other side of the harbor. Highway 1 through Santa Cruz has a lot of traffic in mornings and after 3. 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. The Vagabond's House Hotel Abrego Tradewinds Carmel Spindrift Inn Cypress Inn Tickle Pink Inn. It is the bordering town to Monterey. For Dead Doctors Don't Lie Use: 888-379-2552 . 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. I hesitate to recommend either based on "must-sees" since that is such a personal decision. Aptos is our top pick for families. I second the idea of overnighting in Santa Barbara, perhaps taking in Solvang en route. Is Santa Cruz safe? Top Hotels in Santa Cruz, CA from $60 - Expedia You also have the Boardwalk, which is a seaside amusement park - rides, including an historic wooden roller coaster, games, waffle cones. And it is farther from stuff. Santa Cruz. This nature-rich . Would you recommend one? It has the most cultural attractions in Santa Cruz and loads of cool places to check out. IMO, Carmel/Pacific Grove is MUCH more attractive and interesting than Santa Cruz. Take that one, as its beautiful and different from Highway 1. ISO Ocean front rental or hotel in the Monterey area. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Furnished with an eye for detail, this Downtown Airbnb is the right place for visiting Santa Cruz for the first time. Is Monterey safer? Should I drive hwy 1 that part of the journey? Seriously. Be aware that the hosts live next door with their well-behaved dog (previous guests loved him). Monterey is a quintessential north California ocean town in the USA and has a great population of marine wildlife and fresh seafood. Splash, swim and play at Rio del Mar beach. 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. We're adjacent to Watsonville Municipal Airport, just minutes from Sunset State Beach and nearby golf courses, wineries and wildlife preserves. Carmel Beach is beautiful for romantic walks and just enjoying the view, but the water is cold and rip currents are common. I think my kids would love it. The Monerey Bay Aquarium is not to miss there. Santa Cruz is more of a classic CA beach town with a surf culture and an eclectic downtown. Guests can enjoy a variety of on-site amenities, like a swimming pool and free wifi. 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. My plan now is to drive up from Pasadena to San Simeon via hwy 5 and then pick up hwy 1. Most hotels are fully refundable. Santa Cruzs Boardwalk neighbourhood is one of the liveliest and most vibrant districts in the city. Feast on mouthwatering pub fare at 99 Bottles Restaurant & Pub. Traffic is nothing like what you find in the big city (except during events like Car Week). What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? But because it is farther out, it is great for beach combing because there aren't as many people - sometimes very few people. Re: Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-41178035', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');California beaches are hot and sunny all the time. This excellent three-star hotel is set in central Midtown, one of the best places in Santa Cruz to stay for nightlife. Santa Cruz is more of a beachy town with lots of wide, sandy beaches, the Boardwalk amusement park, an eclectic downtown, strong surfing culture. 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. It is comprised of 16 modern rooms with an excellent array of amenities and features. With over 14 state parks, wineries, museums, farmer's markets, surfing, shopping, and family fun activities, there are plenty of things to do. Day 1: Arrive in Santa Cruz and Overnight Day 2: Walk to Aptos 11 miles / 18 km Day 3: Walk to Moss Landing 13 miles / 22 km Day 4: Walk to Marina 7 miles / 11 km Day 5: Walk to Monterey 11 miles / 19 km Day 6: Onward Travel. It is close to popular tourist attractions as well as dining, nightlife and shopping options. The seaside town of Santa Cruz is one of the coolest places in California. at the end of (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. 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. Its fun and your younger kids would probably love it. 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. Poor second cousin (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The other difference between the areas you mention is that Carmel is higher-end real estate. If you want classic beach stuff - laying out, volleyball, playing in the waves, Santa Cruz is what you want. 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. This is the best hostel in Santa Cruz. It is worth a half day plus to go to Monterey, see the acquarium, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. Re: Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Walk the tiny .6-mile-long . It also boasts plenty of shops, restaurants, bars and landmarks. Browse the buzzing Sunday Art & Music at the Beach events throughout the summer. Your email address will not be published. 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. Another good beach is Seacliff State Beach in Aptos. It will make traffic difficult in that area. 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. Situated south of Downtown, the Boardwalk spans the seaside and is home to buzzing attractions, busy restaurants, and cosy cafes. And yes, the water is cold. If you choose Santa Cruz, check rates at the Dream Inn or Sea and Sand. We were planning to stay in Monterey one night. I will definitely check into the train ride. This is our first trip alone in quite a few years & I want it be fun, romantic & relaxing! We are even usually warmer that Pismo Beach because our beaches face south. Santa Cruz is one of Californias best-kept secrets. There is one near the Holiday Inn Express, which is on Ocean Street which leads into town and one at the Boardwalk. Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor Theres also a large, fully-stocked kitchen. Listen to live music at the Kuumbwa Jazz Centre. Aptos is a serene and stunning neighbourhood located just east of Santa Cruz. We have been to several large aquariums over the years just not that one. Is there a decent midprice one? Monterey. If looking at sea life excites you, you must visit the ocean-view decks to spot humpback whales. We know about the road - we are going go around the long way to Paso Robles to miss the construction.. It is a really vibrant and colourful area of Santa Barbara, and it reallys really unique. 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. This charming hotel is an excellent place to make your base in Capitola because there are plenty of shopping, dining and nightlife options nearby. The best one is the Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, further down on Ocean Street. Eat an amazing meal at Hindquarter Bar & Grill. Take 101, it's much more pleasant than I-5. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. Monterey is more coastal - there are some beaches too, but the coastline is rocky so the focus is more on scenery and wildlife. Stay the night in Carmel or Monterey and leave early for Big Sur. Mar 5 - Mar 6. . 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. My website describes local beaches in further detail: http://www.montereypeninsula.info/guide/beaches.htm. This contemporary hotel has comfortable rooms with excellent features and amenities. Which is exactly why I put together this guide to the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. Twin Lakes Beach is a good one. 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. The Boardwalk is also our pick for the best neighbourhood in Santa Cruz to stay in if youre on a budget. Open to suggestions. 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. 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. 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. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Since you have plenty of time for the trip from SF to LA, distance isn't a factor. Stops and things to do on Monterey to Santa Cruz drive or road trip There are some nice restaurants but not as many as Monterey or Carmel. Want to be featured in our list? There is one near the Holiday Inn Express, which is on Ocean Street which leads into town and one at the Boardwalk. And finally, Aptos is the best area in Santa Cruz to stay in for families because it has excellent beaches and outdoor activities as well as great dining, shopping and sightseeing. Should we. We saw the Hearst Castle. Rooms come complete with A/C and include refrigerators. I always put up overflow family at the Holiday Inn Express during Thanksgiving and Christmas. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77281854', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');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. 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. (Click on California Coast June '11), Driving routes and options from SFO to Monterey. Carmel has two beaches, Carmel city beach and Carmel River Beach. Carmel is next to Monterey, which is a quaint upscale village with plenty of nice restaurants, boutiques, and tasting rooms. The Broke Backpacker's Head of Administration, Art hails from North Florida where the elevation fails to reach even 5 meters. We have two girls, 15 and 10 and are an active family and love adventure, the beach, amusement parks and nature. 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 However, for stretches of Big Sur, most accommodations while beautiful are few and expensive. Also we are 25 & 26 and are not big wine drinkers. Guests can enjoy a heated swimming pool, free wifi and a delicious daily breakfast. Of course, Henry Cowell state park is closer to Santa Cruz, so SC would be more convenient for that. 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. SafetyWing is convenient, cheap, and trouble-free Insurance was never this easy! This unit was designed and built by an architect who has a great eye for style and detail. During the summer the surf on Carmel city beach is relatively tame, and people do play in the water, but not without some risk. Compare 580 hotels in Santa Cruz using 17,179 real guest reviews. Sip a glass of wine aboard the Chardonnay II. The aquarium is but one attraction in that area. . That was sort of cool to see. Grab a drink at the Asti, an old-school dive bar. 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. 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. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. Also be aware that Highway 1 between (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? That is, as long as you don't get stuck in traffic. Santa Cruz County vs. Monterey County: Who Ya Got? | Good Times Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf are touristy, but downtown isn't really - they are all close together though. Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor Monterey Tourism Monterey Hotels Monterey Guest House Monterey Holiday Homes Monterey Holiday Packages Monterey Flights . How do I get from San Jose to Santa Cruz without a car? - 2023 It's possible to stay anywhere in the area and get to everything else fairly fast. We were planning to stay in Monterey one night. 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. We like the dining scene a lot more in Monterey-Carmel, but inexpensive eats are easier to find in Santa Cruz. Where to Stay in Santa Cruz, California (2023 COOLEST Areas!) View details, map and photos of this residential lots property with 0 bedrooms and 0 total baths. 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. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? The Municipal Wharf is near the Boardwalk and Stagnaro Bros. takes boats out on the Bay for whale watching. Enjoy a great selection of sweet and savoury dishes at the Crepe Place, a longstanding Santa Cruz favourite. The Continental Inn is set at the heart of Santa Cruz. In Santa Cruz, I have it tentatively narrowed down to the Holiday Inn Express or the Best Western. 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. Monterey Hotel Deals; Find quality homes and apartments for rent and property management in Santa Clara, San Jose, Monterey and elsewhere in coastal Central California. Is your phone eSIM ready? Inside its quaint Victorian facade lie 69 well-appointed rooms, some of which are pet-friendly, too. Princess or sanctuary cruises (Whale watching). Mornings going north, afternoon going south. You can pretty much expect all indoor attractions to be closed until conditions improve markedly. The Monerey Bay Aquarium is not to miss there. Carmel/Pacific Grove vs Santa Cruz - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums Don't know if your kids would be that interested in that, mine were 20 and 17 so it was different for us. Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? I would also use this term to describe the Haight Ashbury neighborhood generically. Thanks! Both are good choices. There are several Best Westerns in town. The Best Western is ideally located in Capitola, Santa Cruzs best neighbourhood for hipsters, trendsetters and cool kids. Do you enjoy luxury or more budget-oriented accommodations? We are pretty active so we like hiking and kayaking, but we also like to stay in nice accommodations at the end of the night with good food and a nice glass of wine. Drink fresh and handcrafted beers at the Seabright Brewery. It's myself and my husband and we are going the first week in May. Nobody remembers that this was happening all over the country. The Rio Vista Inn is our favourite hotel in Santa Cruz. The reviews on Tripadvisor are not encouraging. Monterey is more coastal than beachy, if that makes sense. 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. This is a much nicer route than I-5, which is really boring. Best deals for Monterey Bay Aquarium tickets? And it is farther from stuff. Santa Cruz is the beach locals go to for sun and water activities. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Spend another night closer to Santa Barbara. Theres also an outdoor swimming pool and on-site parking. The home is incredibly airy and bright, equipped with only high-quality amenities and comfy furniture. 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. Weve tested countless packs over the years, and now weve found our absolute favourite: the nomad-approved Nomatic Travel Bag. Here youll find a vast array of independent boutiques, delicious restaurants, charming inns and lively bars. 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 Request additional information, schedule a showing, save to your property organizer. The earliest known filming took place in Monterey in 1897, compared to Santa Cruz's first foray into film in 1915. Thanks! It is world class. 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. Get excited here are our best recommendations for where to stay in Santa Cruz, California, USA. Both are good choices, it really depends on the atmosphere that you want. It has a eucalyptus grove where Monarch butterflies stay over the winter when they are migrating. And let us not overlook Ostrichland in Buellton. If you like to stay at a motel and do the Boardwalk, Santa Cruz is more your liking stay there. 17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Santa Cruz (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It's a small, funky lil beach town with shops, casual restaurants & beach access. A continental breakfast is also included in each reservation. Take State Park Drive from Hwy 1. It is conveniently located near the Boardwalk and there are plenty of shops, restaurants and bars within walking distance. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-41178810', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');California you have to be south of Point Conception, which is just north of Santa Barbara. Heres what people usually ask us about the areas of Santa Cruz and where to stay. I think Monterey probably has the edge for lodging and restaurants within walking distance to more lodging. This is north of the Boardwalk area. Hope this helps a bit! Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! 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. 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. Travel south from here and youll arrive in the busy and buzzing Boardwalk neighbourhood. However, just to confuse things I believe that they have merged the two into "Twin Lakes State Beach". They are located at opposite ends of the same bay, so the area for whale watching is pretty much the same from either town. However, don't expect warm water in Santa Cruz, either. 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. We stayed in Cambria overnight, it took about 4hours to get there. I would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. Road Trip: Where to stay Monterey or Santa Cruz? - Tripadvisor In short, Santa Cruz is without a doubt one of California's best-kept secrets. 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. Youre steps away from Boardwalk and the beach, as well as cafes, restaurants and other hot spots. Difference between Santa Cruz and Monterey & Carmel area? Surf City Inn & Suites is your best bet for budget Santa Cruz accommodation in Midtown. 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. Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? And conversely, if you choose to stay in Monterey, you can see SC on the way there. 1190 WARREN DR, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060 - montereybayprop.com The downtown areass of Monterey and Carmel are nicer. But, despite its small size, choosing the best neighbourhood to stay in Santa Cruz can be a challenge. Then you head inland a bit, still scenic though, and meet back up with the coast later. Since (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 2. Also, I'm thinking of staying at the Best Western in Morro Bay. Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. 2023, The Broke Backpacker. For Sale - 7855 Monterra Oaks Rd, Monterey, CA - $1,900,000. Where To Stay In Monterey, California: 15 Great | Trip101 :) Report inappropriate content november_moon San Jose, California Destination Expert for California Level Contributor 24,101 posts 138 reviews 71 helpful votes 8. I concur with november moon. What is between Santa Cruz and Monterey? - signalduo.com Another consideration is your overall plan - how many nights do you have for your drive down the coast? 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. There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. Flora Vista Inn is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. They won't hurt yu. 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 ? Santa Cruz Island to Monterey - 8 ways to travel via train - Rome2rio Comfortable, big and close to the beach this family Airbnb is perfect for holidays together. You are coming in Sept and the fire is supposed to be out by August end. Previso meteorolgica de inverno em Mnin-Mokre, Voivodia de Santa Cruz Two of the most popular beach(es) in Santa Cruz itself are Seabright and Twin Lakes. Should we. It is only a few years old and is a very nice hotel. When we vacation, we hike, bike, kayak, surf, horse-back rideyou get the idea. Looking for exceptional deals on Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Westside Santa Cruz vacation packages? . You could also visit nearby Carmel which is one of our favorite towns on the CA coast. Highway 1 Gate: This 17-Mile Drive entrance is off of exit 399A. Monterey is best for families and budget-conscious travellers, while Carmel is best for couples, foodies and shoppers. Carmel, Pacific Grove, and Monterey are adjacent to one another.Santa Cruz would be further north. Each room comes complete with a minibar, kitchenette and wireless internet access. 7855 Monterra Oaks is an exceptional 2.72 acre private homesite boasting unobstructed panoramic ocean views of Monterey Bay, city lights and the Santa Cruz mountains. Our Trip started in Santa Monica ending in SF. And for transparencys sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. On the first leg, we are trying to decide if we should sleep in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? :) Can anyone help me figure out what is the best way to plan this?? Monterey has a great bike path. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172993', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nepenthe. You understand you can't drive the coast LA to SF, right? Go for a hike through Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. The Comfort Inn is centrally located near the Boardwalk, one of the best areas to stay in Santa Cruz. Catch a show at Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. Answer 11 of 17: We (myself & two young sons) are making our way up from LA to San Francisco next month & want to spend a night in either Monterey or Santa Cruz. See a show at the intimate and awesome Rio Theatre. This hostel has comfortable beds, modern amenities and boasts a friendly, welcoming and social atmosphere.

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