should i stay in monterey or santa cruz?

126 216 r/travel Join 8 days ago Sip seaside cocktails at Bay Bar and Grill. 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. Once you hit Ventura, then you'll be on the coast through Santa Barbara. Get answers to your questions about Monterey, Monterey Peninsula Trip Report w/photos. Driving from LA to Monterey - First time - help. Edited: 01 June . Where to Stay in Santa Cruz, California (2023 COOLEST Areas!) Continue travelling east along the coast to Capitola. The best one is the Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, further down on Ocean Street. To find warm water beaches in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. Comfort Inn - Watsonville CA Hotel - Book Today! 7. I find people to be friendly, generally. I am considering whale watching and hiking in the Henry Cowell Redwood park among other things. 2. 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. Natural Bridges State Beach is excellent. 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. And it is farther from stuff. Heres what people usually ask us about the areas of Santa Cruz and where to stay. Andril Fireplace Cottages Seven Gables Inn Carmel Cottage Inn Casa Munras Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row Monterey Bay Inn. There are some museums and movie theaters in the downtown area. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Also, can any give me some input on hwy1 from LA up to San Simeon. 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. From a hotel on the beach, to a quaint inn or bed and breakfast, to a vacation rental for the family or a rustic campground, you can rest easy in Santa Cruz County. 1190 WARREN DR, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060 - montereybayprop.com I always put up overflow family at the Holiday Inn Express during Thanksgiving and Christmas. . This stunning three-star property is ideally located in La Selva Beach. 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. And conversely, if you choose to stay in Monterey, you can see SC on the way there. We spend a lot of time in the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? There are beaches, but the coastline is more rocky, which is beautiful and means that you have more opportunity to see sea animals. Best Places to stay along the Pacific Coast Highway ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car ride. The ultimate itinerary for a Big Sur road trip (Click on California Coast June '11), Driving routes and options from SFO to Monterey. East of the city centre is the Midtown/Seabright neighbourhood. It offers easy access to shops, restaurants and bars, and is close to the beach. 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. Highway 1 Road Trip: Overnight stay in Monterey vs. Santa Cruz Santa Cruz has a hippie vibe downtown. I would take Hwy 101 north to San Luis Obispo and pick up Hwy 1 there. Take the second exit out of the roundabout, and follow the signs to Pebble Beach. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? 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. We like the dining scene a lot more in Monterey-Carmel, but inexpensive eats are easier to find in Santa Cruz. Monterey is more coastal than beachy, if that makes sense. Reserve now, pay when you stay. Mar 5 - Mar 6. . Surf City Inn & Suites is your best bet for budget Santa Cruz accommodation in Midtown. Santa Cruz has a more tie-dye and granola feel . It also extends on the other side of the harbor entrance. It offers easy access throughout the neighbourhood and is close to restaurants, the beach and bars. Guests can enjoy a heated swimming pool, free wifi and a delicious daily breakfast. Walking in Carmel reminded me of being in a European town with it's interesting storefronts, side streets and small nooks and crannies. Would you recommend one? My website describes local beaches in further detail: http://www.montereypeninsula.info/guide/beaches.htm. Another consideration is your overall plan - how many nights do you have for your drive down the coast? Your decision sounds great! 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. I would hang around Morro Bay for some water activity and marine mammal observation. Cheer on the D-League Santa Cruz Warriors or the Santa Cruz Derby Girls at the Kaiser Permanent Area. MUST READ: Where to Stay in Monterey (2022 Guide) - The Broke Backpacker :) Report inappropriate content november_moon San Jose, California Destination Expert for California Level Contributor 24,123 posts 138 reviews 71 helpful votes 8. Stay the night in Carmel or Monterey and leave early for Big Sur. Would you recommend one? Monterey has more wildlife-focused sites to visit. Its just that easy. Yes, finding a room which would hold a family of 6 is definitely a problem. Also, I'm thinking of staying at the Best Western in Morro Bay. 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. Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor World Nomads mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car ride. I hear the beaches there are nice so we're considering Twin Lakes State Beach & Manresa. The Capitola Venetian Hotel is close to everything the neighbourhood has to offer. There are no modern hippies. We took 101 from LA to Canbria and it was just a gorgeous drive..I wouldn't have imagined that. Both are good choices, it really depends on the atmosphere that you want. It really just depends on what you are looking for. The Best Western is ideally located in Capitola, Santa Cruzs best neighbourhood for hipsters, trendsetters and cool kids. They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently. Monterey is more coastal - there are some beaches too, but the coastline is rocky so the focus is more on scenery and wildlife. What You Should Know About Managing Security Deposits as a New Property The Monerey Bay Aquarium is not to miss there. Natural Bridges and other beach parks. WHERE TO STAY in MONTEREY - Best Areas & Neighborhoods - Santorini Dave We really appreciate & are super excited about our adventure! Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. It also offers easy access to the beach as well as many of Santa Cruzs most famous attractions and landmarks. 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. Earn free nights and get our Price Guarantee - booking has never been easier on Hotels.com! Alternatively, you may use, InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel, http://www.montereypeninsula.info/guide/beaches.htm. And it is farther from stuff. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Two of the most popular beach(es) in Santa Cruz itself are Seabright and Twin Lakes. Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Message Board - Tripadvisor There are some nice restaurants but not as many as Monterey or Carmel. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. You can whale watch from either town. One of the coolest places to stay in Santa Cruz, Capitola is packed with incredible things to see and explore. It is located at the heart of Santa Cruz and is just a stones throw from great dining, shopping and nightlife options. The apartment is very bright, furnished beautifully and offers so much comfort from a massive bed to a great living area. 400 plus pictures, but I digress. 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. It will make traffic difficult in that area. No matter where you are in the neighbourhood, youll find yourself surrounded by great tunes. The Monterey Hotel - Historic Victorian hotel in the heart of Monterey; Santa Cruz Ocean Pacific Hotel - A no-frills hotel with a fantastic location. Stops and things to do on Monterey to Santa Cruz drive or road trip Make your voice heard as feds consider Chumash Heritage Marine This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. I was trying to give a VERY general description as to how the areas differ. Theres also a large, fully-stocked kitchen. We have been to several large aquariums over the years just not that one. Road Trip: Where to stay Monterey or Santa Cruz? - Tripadvisor ), Bougie-coffee lover and staunch enemy of coriander; TEFL-certified language teacher, linguist, and aspiring polyglot. How do I get from San Jose to Santa Cruz without a car? - 2023 Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop! Monterey (Spanish: Monterrey; Ohlone: Aacistak) is a city located in Monterey County on the southern edge of Monterey Bay on California's Central Coast. Flora Vista Inn is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. Or spend a night or two in both to maximize your time on the coast. . Monterey has a temperate climate, with a short, intense rainy season. It is comprised of 16 modern rooms with an excellent array of amenities and features. Best Cheap Hotels in Santa Cruz from $64 | Hotels.com 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. It has a eucalyptus grove where Monarch butterflies stay over the winter when they are migrating. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. Your email address will not be published. It was incredible. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. 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. We were planning to stay in Monterey one night. Since (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Browse the buzzing Sunday Art & Music at the Beach events throughout the summer. 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. Want to be featured in our list? Is there a decent midprice one? Be aware that the hosts live next door with their well-behaved dog (previous guests loved him). I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to. I would have a hard time finding stuff to . ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-109324334', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey Bay Aquarium. Thanks! This property has five bedrooms with great features and stunning views. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to. Either on your way to Big Sur, part of your day in Big Sur or on your way to 101. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Best Places to Stay on a California Coast Road Trip 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. My boyfriend & I are planning a trip to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? There may be homeless, but they are everywhere now. Want more deetz on why we love itso damn much? Explore the streets, shops and bars of colourful Capitola Village. Take State Park Drive from Hwy 1. All rights reserved. I will definitely check into the train ride. Twin Lakes is the next beach, just on the other side of the harbor. This room allows you to have a great home while not having to empty your bank account completely. Midtown is an eclectic neighbourhood located east of the city centre. Aptos is a serene and stunning neighbourhood located just east of Santa Cruz. 10:00 am start in Santa Cruz drive for about 47 minutes. Not true. Take that one, as its beautiful and different from Highway 1. Even the hostels in Santa Barbara are upscale. Youre connected. Hotel in Watsonville, CA | Comfort Inn Official Site | Comfort Inn This hotel has 49 cosy, clean and comfortable rooms. There is a good and informative visitor center and some great tide pools. Should I stay a night in Santa Cruz? - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums I would take Hwy 101 north to San Luis Obispo and pick up Hwy 1 there. We do not represent World Nomads. netllama 7 yr. ago The driving time between Monterrey & Santa Cruz is about an hour. Thank you for your input. It is a laid-back and funky town that offers great restaurants, independent shops, lively nightlife and some of the best beaches in the state. 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. Santa Cruzs Boardwalk neighbourhood is one of the liveliest and most vibrant districts in the city. Delve deep into history at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. per night. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center Vacations ; This shabby-chic hotel is just steps from the beach, the Boardwalk, great restaurants and lively nightlife. Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor Both areas have a lot to do. Big Sur Closed -- Should we stay in Santa Cruz or Monterey?? - Santa It is close to popular tourist attractions as well as dining, nightlife and shopping options. As to which town, I prefer Santa Cruz, but I think Monterey has better restaurants. I'll also say that Monterey is nice if you're traveling with kids because of the Aquarium and the really cool Dennis the Menace playground, both of which we visited with our then 18-month-old son. Santa Cruz County vs. Monterey County: Who Ya Got? | Good Times 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. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. 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. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. 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 for your input. Another good beach is Seacliff State Beach in Aptos. Things to Do. If you want classic beach stuff - laying out, volleyball, playing in the waves, Santa Cruz is what you want. Should we. Monterey is more coastal and less beachy. This charming hotel is an excellent place to make your base in Capitola because there are plenty of shopping, dining and nightlife options nearby. I will definitely check into the train ride. Take a photo at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay for some great memories without a hefty price tag. Required fields are marked *. Santa Cruz Island to Monterey - 8 ways to travel via train - Rome2rio Monterey has a great bike path. There are several Best Westerns in town. Even at its warmest, the ocean along the California coast remains cool compared to beaches in the tropics or even Florida. It's among the best places to stay in Monterey, CA. Since youre staying two nights in Big Sur you can easily see Monterey while there. If you are coming by Air or Train, San Jose is the best destination. Stay in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? - Santa Cruz Forum 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. A continental breakfast is also included in each reservation. The beach is wide and good for walking. Answer 11 of 15: Hi - I'm traveling to California early next August. 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. I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpackers. I would also use this term to describe the Haight Ashbury neighborhood generically. Looking for a specific place to stay? Driving the coast from SF to LA. Theres also an outdoor swimming pool and on-site parking. Listed below are the top historic hotels in Monterey, California, that you can scroll over and book now. Request additional information, schedule a showing, save to your property organizer. You could also visit nearby Carmel which is one of our favorite towns on the CA coast. The price is $209 per night. Carmel/Pacific Grove vs Santa Cruz - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums 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. Don't stay at any with "Boardwalk" in the name.. I have the time but worry about the length of the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. More information. Monterey. Highway 1 Gate: This 17-Mile Drive entrance is off of exit 399A. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads usingthis link. There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. Its fun and your younger kids would probably love it. Santa Cruz seamlessly blends its relaxed beach lifestyle with a vibrant culture and some high tech industry. It is world class. California Coast: Santa Cruz to Monterey | US Hiking tours - Macs Adventure But, despite its small size, choosing the best neighbourhood to stay in Santa Cruz can be a challenge. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? There are several Best Westerns in town. 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. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. The room is spacious, with a comfy bed and has a private bathroom. The Continental Inn is set at the heart of Santa Cruz. We were in CA last June and stayed in Santa Cruz, and visited the Aquarium. Theres also a laundry service and pool on-site. The Municipal Wharf is near the Boardwalk and Stagnaro Bros. takes boats out on the Bay for whale watching. Its a great place to watch surfers. Day 1: San Francisco to Monterey Be sure to spend some time in San Fran before you leave! There are no "hippies". For things to see on the Monterey Peninsula see, https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g580824-Activities-Monterey_Peninsula_California.html, Santa Cruz is focused more on the Boardwalk or to go see Henry Cowell Redwoods.it also has the ocean, surfing, and a winery section (not as nice as Carmel or Carmel Valley but enough wineries to enjoy in a ery short visit.). Our decision now is what to do with the THREE DAYS we have. We took 101 from LA to Canbria and it was just a gorgeous drive..I wouldn't have imagined that. Which is exactly why I put together this guide to the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. 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. 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. Enjoy a great selection of sweet and savoury dishes at the Crepe Place, a longstanding Santa Cruz favourite. This is the longest stretch. Henry Cowell is 15 minutes away. Most major cities along the coast including San Francisco, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles have the presence of most hotel chains and it is easy to find a place to stay for all budgets. I would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. It is an up-and-coming hipster hub that boasts a vast array of bike shops and furniture stores as well as rustic cafes, hip restaurants, and buzzing live music venues. Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Cruz, an IHG Hotel. Where to Stay in Monterey or Carmel, CA: The Best Hotels 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. If approved by the National Ocean and Atmospheric Association, the new sanctuary will provide the missing link in a chain of . Oceana Inn Santa Cruz is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. We're adjacent to Watsonville Municipal Airport, just minutes from Sunset State Beach and nearby golf courses, wineries and wildlife preserves. Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California - Located deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains, it is California's oldest state park. I've just now been informed that the beach isn't really safe to swim in. What do you think? Monterey Tourism Monterey Hotels Monterey Guest House Monterey Holiday Homes Monterey Holiday Packages Monterey Flights . Browse the tiny but interesting Aptos History Museum. Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor Thanks everyone for the tips and recommendations. Yall are great! 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. We saw the Hearst Castle. In short, Santa Cruz is without a doubt one of Californias best-kept secrets. 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. And oftentimes good food in that range. 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. How to Find the Perfect Place to Stay in Santa Cruz, California Not only will you find the citys only hostel here, but this neighbourhood is packed with delicious cheap eats and inexpensive activities to enjoy. What's it like to live in Carmel or Monterey on the Pacific - Quora Difference between Santa Cruz and Monterey & Carmel area? Thanks SO much :). Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? The outdoor area is shared with the other unit but offers a cute patio and a BBQ. Monterey is more coastal and less beachy. If you choose Santa Cruz, check rates at the Dream Inn or Sea and Sand. The beautiful interior design will make you feel comfortable and at home. The 10 Best Santa Cruz Hotels (From $83) - Booking.com Highway 1 through Santa Cruz has a lot of traffic in mornings and after 3. Comfortable, big and close to the beach this family Airbnb is perfect for holidays together. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Shop until you drop at the Pacific Garden Mall. 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. 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.