Location: Santa Cruz Motels
Top Hotels in Santa Cruz Motels
Top Things to do in Santa Cruz
The 10 best Motels in Santa Cruz, United States
The quintessential California beach town of Santa Cruz! It was here that surfing was first brought to the mainland by Hawaiian royalty. Home to the legendary Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a pedestrian-friendly, tree-lined downtown area, and the historic Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, which stretches out a half-mile into the waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Other highlights include UC Santa Cruz, the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, and nearby redwood forests.
Things to do in Santa Cruz
1. Mission Inn
Overall Ratings
4 based on 434 reviews
53 spacious and accommodating guest rooms include in-room coffee, complimentary continental breakfast, cable TV, HBO, air conditioning and high speed internet. All rooms have refrigerators and microwaves. Closest hotel to UCSC. Only five minutes to the Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk, beaches, downtown and several restaurants.
Better than I expected!
Reviewed By daves37215I was in need of an inexpensive motel while on the road and the Mission Inn filled my need. The lady at the front desk when we checked in was very kind and gave us ideas on where to go eat. The room was very clean and perfectly fine for me and my son for one night. I can't say teh free breakfast was wonderful but it did fill the need.
2. The Islander Motel
Overall Ratings
4 based on 237 reviews
Welcome to The Islander Motel! The Islander Motel specializes in upstanding hospitality and superb customer service. We are a family-owned, community-focused business that provides many quality amenities, such as free WiFi and parking, electronic door lock sfor your security, and seasonal rates. It does not stop here, either: for family fun, we are only one mile away from the Santa Cruz beach and boardwalk. And if you love nightlife, we are only two and a half miles away from downtown Santa Cruz! Call us today for a room reservation and find out what sets The Islander Motel apart from the competition.
Great Price for its Value
Reviewed By I8236CTafExcellent price, clean room, helpful customer service. Can't ask for much more for one night. I also asked for an extension to stay in the room for an extra two hours, and they granted me that with no fee.
3. Carousel Beach Inn
Overall Ratings
4 based on 784 reviews
The family-friendly Carousel Beach Inn is just steps away from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Main Beach.
Santa Cruz Getaway
Reviewed By SandeepdetherageGreat, fairly priced during off season motel right across from the boardwalk. Rooms were spacious and clean, the breakfast was excellent being continental, and the location across the street from the boardwalk made it the perfect choice for my family. I do wish they had more pack n plays available so I didn’t have to drag mine own in, and the beds could be updated to being softer.
4. Bay Front Inn
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 579 reviews
Everyone needs a place to lay their weary head. For travelers visiting Santa Cruz, Bay Front Inn is an excellent choice for rest and rejuvenation. Well-known for its family-friendly environment and proximity to great restaurants and attractions, Bay Front Inn makes it easy to enjoy the best of Santa Cruz. As your “home away from home,” the motel rooms offer a flat screen TV and air conditioning, and getting online is easy, with free wifi available. Guests have access to a sun terrace and a picnic area while staying at Bay Front Hotel. In addition, Bay Front Inn offers a pool and free breakfast, which will help make your Santa Cruz trip additionally gratifying. And, as an added convenience, there is free parking available to guests. While staying at Bay Front Hotel, visitors can check out Boardwalk's Cocoanut Grove (0.5 mi) and Mark Abbot Memorial Lighthouse (0.5 mi), some of Santa Cruz's top attractions. If you’re looking for an Italian restaurant, consider a visit to Tramonti, Lillian's Italian Kitchen, or Cafe Mare, which are all conveniently located a short distance from Bay Front Hotel. There is no shortage of things to do in the area: explore popular art galleries such as Tannery Arts Center and PF Atelier. Bay Front Inn is sure to make your visit to Santa Cruz one worth remembering.
Beware of unapproved charges
Reviewed By Steven RBEWARE - Booked room via Expedia with no issues. I checked in and was told $100 would be held on my card for incidentals, which is pretty standard. I noticed the following day I was charged $185, I waited to see if it would be lifted, but it was charged. I spent over a week trying to get a hold of management with various staff (Lennon, etc.), saying my name was already saved for management to call. I tried calling again, and now they don't pick up the phone; I left messages with no luck.
5. Beachview inn
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 152 reviews
If you’re looking for a budget friendly motel in Santa Cruz, look no further than Beachview inn. While staying at Beach View Hotel, visitors can check out Boardwalk's Cocoanut Grove (0.4 mi) and Mark Abbot Memorial Lighthouse (0.5 mi), some of Santa Cruz's top attractions. Rooms at Beach View Hotel provide a flat screen TV, a refrigerator, and air conditioning, and guests can stay connected with free wifi. In addition, while staying at Beach View Hotel guests have access to a 24 hour front desk. You can also enjoy free breakfast. Need a place to park? Free parking is available at Beach View Hotel. Travelers looking to enjoy some oyster can head to Stagnaro Bros Seafood, Firefish Grill, or Riva Fish House. Otherwise, you may want to check out a barbeque restaurant such as Mission St Bbq, Cole's Bar-B-Q, or Cole's Bar-B-Q & Catering. Looking to explore? Then look no further than West Cliff Drive (0.1 mi) and Santa Cruz Wharf (0.3 mi), which are some popular Santa Cruz attractions – all conveniently located within walking distance of the motel. The staff at Beachview inn looks forward to serving you during your upcoming visit.
Cough Cough
Reviewed By 337sweetbI had the wonderful experience of coughing all night long. So I started searching for the cause. I sniffed the top blanket and noticed it smelled so strong of laundry detergent. Then when I got out of bed stepped towards the wall my feet stuck to the carpet. I figured cleaning product was left in it. Please rinse out all that soapy stuff. Overall place is clean looks so clean.
6. Casablanca Inn on the Beach
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 620 reviews
The historical Casablanca Inn is strategically located across the street from the Santa Cruz beach, a block away from the wharf and the boardwalk. All our rooms are beautifully decorated and have a breathtaking view of the beach. Some of our rooms have a unique design which reflects the distinct character of the historic Cerf Mansion. Over the years, the Casablanca Inn has been fortunate enough to cater to some of the most influential and famous personalities of our time, which has immensely appreciated the elegance that our hotel has to offer.
Disappointing and also overpriced
Reviewed By Duo38In the past we have stayed at basic hotels and have no problem with "no frills," but Casablanca is the first time that we left a hotel feeling as if we had been ripped off. Not only were the provisions inferior (skimpy towel supply, dirty dog area, misrepresentation about having Netflix, bathroom in need of major paint), but several of the staff were ineffective and unfriendly. Rather than staying a second night as planned, we realized that it was not worth it. The location is convenient and the views are beautiful, but the exorbitant prices and unaccommodating staff left us feeling that it would be well advised to book a stay elsewhere.
7. Best Western Inn
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 275 reviews
Located in Santa Cruz,CA, the Best Western Inn is sure to provide a peaceful and comforting home away from home for any traveler. Each Best Western hotel provides free internet access, giving guests the opportunity to check emails and surf the web, all from the comforts of their room or the business center. With cleanliness and value being our top priority, we ensure a restful and productive stay. On top of that, our superior customer service will ensure that we meet all your needs and go beyond your expectations.
Clean room and polite staff but not worth the cost
Reviewed By O1049XSjustinThe staff was polite and the room was clean, but all the noise happening kept us up all night. Guests slamming doors and walking heavily upstairs and certain appliances making noise. A lot of homeless people in the area. Was not worth $200/night
8. Super 8 by Wyndham Santa Cruz/Beach Boardwalk East
Overall Ratings
4 based on 622 reviews
Finding an ideal family-friendly motel in Santa Cruz does not have to be difficult. Welcome to Super 8 by Wyndham Santa Cruz/Beach Boardwalk East, a nice option for travelers like you. Rooms at Super 8 Santa Cruz Boardwalk East Hotel offer a flat screen TV, a refrigerator, and air conditioning providing exceptional comfort and convenience, and guests can go online with free wifi. A 24 hour front desk, room service, and express check-in and check-out are some of the conveniences offered at this motel. A pool and free breakfast will also help to make your stay even more special. If you are driving to Super 8 by Wyndham Santa Cruz/Beach Boardwalk East, free parking is available. Close to some of Santa Cruz's most popular landmarks, such as Boardwalk's Cocoanut Grove (0.2 mi) and Mark Abbot Memorial Lighthouse (0.8 mi), Super 8 by Wyndham Santa Cruz/Beach Boardwalk East is a great destination for tourists. When you’re feeling hungry, be sure to check out Sawasdee By The Sea, Sabieng Thai Cuisine, and At Thai Recipe, which are some Thai restaurants that are popular with locals and out-of-towners alike. Plus, during your trip, don’t forget to check out some of the popular gardens, such as UCSC Arboretum and Ocean View Park. Super 8 by Wyndham Santa Cruz/Beach Boardwalk East puts the best of Santa Cruz at your fingertips, making your stay both relaxing and enjoyable.
Me time
Reviewed By anthonywhite209The super 8 was very nice. 4 minute walk from the beach and boardwalk. With the smell of the ocean in the air at night. Very quiet and peaceful room.. I will definitely be back fir another couple nights.
9. Edgewater Beach Motel
Overall Ratings
4 based on 200 reviews
Santa Cruz Beach Boardalk 1 block east and across from main beach & wharf. 17 unique non-smoking units. Spacious family suites with fully equipped kitchens, separate bedroom, and 2 T.V.'s. Enjoy our delightful climate while relaxing by our pool. Picnic area with gas BBQ's and great view. Short walk to downtown and west cliff drive. Some rooms with fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs, and oceanviews.
Do not recommend with toddlers!
Reviewed By jholley1993They wound up draining whatever they could off my card because of some crumbs on the floor from my 3, 4, and 5 yo. And also to rewash the bedding (thought hotel standards were to wash bedding between guests ?♂️).
10. National 9 Motel
Overall Ratings
3 based on 59 reviews
National 9 Motel is an excellent choice for travelers visiting Santa Cruz, offering a budget friendly environment alongside many helpful amenities designed to enhance your stay. National 9 Hotel is a budget friendly motel offering air conditioning in the rooms, and it is easy to stay connected during your stay as free wifi is offered to guests. Plus, guests can enjoy a pool, which has made this a popular choice among travelers visiting Santa Cruz. For guests with a vehicle, free parking is available. While staying at National 9 Hotel, visitors can check out Mission State Park (0.4 mi) and Boardwalk's Cocoanut Grove (1.2 mi), some of Santa Cruz's top attractions. Santa Cruz has plenty of Thai restaurants. So when you’re here, be sure to check out popular spots like Sabieng Thai Cuisine, Sawasdee By The Sea, and Pacific Thai Santa Cruz, which are serving up some great dishes. If you’re looking for something to do, West Cliff Drive (1.1 mi), Santa Cruz Wharf (1.2 mi), and Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (0.4 mi) are a nice way to spend some time, and they are all within walking distance of National 9 Hotel. Enjoy your stay in Santa Cruz!
Dishonest Liars who refused to honor Discount Rate Reservation so they could rent last 2 rooms at full rate!
Reviewed By sharid871I showed up with confirmation in hand through Booking.com, they refused to honor it because they only had a couple rooms left and I was paying 1/2 of the rack rate. I am a 58 year local, property owner who only needed to stay while my house was being fumigated a mile away. What if I had been traveling and arrived to find out they would not honor my reservation and the town was sold out, like it was yesterday and the day before? These people are crooks, liars and thieves!
