ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77278122', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Santa Cruz is more of a classic CA beach town with a surf culture and an eclectic downtown. 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. We took 101 from LA to Canbria and it was just a gorgeous drive..I wouldn't have imagined that. Hwy 101 is nicely scenic though too. The aquarium in Monterey is VERY worth going to. 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. I would choose one location and spend 2 nights. Either on your way to Big Sur, part of your day in Big Sur or on your way to 101. Not only will you find the citys only hostel here, but this neighbourhood is packed with delicious cheap eats and inexpensive activities to enjoy. 2. Monterey Properties; Santa Clara Properties; Santa Cruz Properties; Fresno Properties; Short Term Rentals; List Your Rental; Residents; Owners; Contact; Blog; FAQs; Pay Rent. What do you think? Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? It's possible to stay anywhere in the area and get to everything else fairly fast. HI-Santa Cruz Hostel is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. 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). The home is incredibly airy and bright, equipped with only high-quality amenities and comfy furniture. 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. The Ritz Carlton - If you can afford it then this is the place to stay. The reviews on Tripadvisor are not encouraging. Eat an amazing meal at Hindquarter Bar & Grill. Take 101, it's much more pleasant than I-5. We really appreciate & are super excited about our adventure! Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California - Located deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains, it is California's oldest state park. 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. 5:52 pm Paso Robles eat at Niner Wine Estates stay overnight at Summerwood Winery and Inn My plan now is to drive up from Pasadena to San Simeon via hwy 5 and then pick up hwy 1. A continental breakfast is also included in each reservation. What's it like to live in Carmel or Monterey on the Pacific - Quora Nobody remembers that this was happening all over the country. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77301030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Santa Cruz! per night. This is the longest stretch. Are there a lot of must dos in Santa Cruz? . To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Monterey. Go for a hike through Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. Santa Cruz is more of a beachy town with lots of wide, sandy beaches, the Boardwalk amusement park, an eclectic downtown, strong surfing culture. The Boardwalk is also our pick for the best neighbourhood in Santa Cruz to stay in if youre on a budget. In short, Santa Cruz is without a doubt one of Californias best-kept secrets. It is close to popular tourist attractions as well as dining, nightlife and shopping options. Both are good choices. East of the city centre is the Midtown/Seabright neighbourhood. This article was written by travellers for travellers. If youre not sure which is right for you, here is a quick recap of our favourite Santa Cruz accommodation options: HI-Santa Cruz Hostel is the best hostel in the city. 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. Check out the Mnin-Mokre, Voivodia de Santa Cruz, Polnia WinterCast. But because it is farther out, it is great for beach combing because there aren't as many people - sometimes very few people. With all of the educational institutions we have, it has an international feel to it, and many good restaurants. Email [emailprotected] to find out how. Is Monterey safer? Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor Highway 1 Road Trip: Overnight stay in Monterey vs. 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. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. 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. 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. Yall are great! Enjoy a great selection of sweet and savoury dishes at the Crepe Place, a longstanding Santa Cruz favourite. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77302454', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Carmel is, they roll up the sidewalks at 6pm ;-) so if you want any kind of nightlife other than a nice dinner out and perhaps drinks at a quiet bar, Monterey or Santa Cruz will be a better choice. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Currently we have the below planned. I'd love to see that hippie vibe back in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. The beautiful interior design will make you feel comfortable and at home. 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. Just as close to everything. We have been to several large aquariums over the years just not that one. Explore the streets, shops and bars of colourful Capitola Village. Its kind of a funky sort of place, a bit off-beat. Answer 1 of 26: So with all the road and park closures in Big Sur we are considering cancelling our two night stay there in early March. There are beaches, but the coastline is more rocky, which is beautiful and means that you have more opportunity to see sea animals. This delightful hotel is one of the best places in Santa Cruz to stay in because it has a great central location. Monterey is more coastal and less beachy. We recommend Downtown. 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. From $113.05 per night. Andril Fireplace Cottages Seven Gables Inn Carmel Cottage Inn Casa Munras Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row Monterey Bay Inn. If you want classic beach stuff - laying out, volleyball, playing in the waves, Santa Cruz is what you want. Your email address will not be published. Monterey, California - The AZA-accredited Monterey Bay Aquarium is big on conservation. Its just that easy. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? 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. It's myself and my husband and we are going the first week in May. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? If you like to stay at a motel and do the Boardwalk, Santa Cruz is more your liking stay there. At Pitney Bowes, we do the right thing, the right way. A couple, family w/kids, etc ? Both are good choices, it really depends on the atmosphere that you want. Continue travelling east along the coast to Capitola. Youre steps away from Boardwalk and the beach, as well as cafes, restaurants and other hot spots. This hostel has comfortable beds, modern amenities and boasts a friendly, welcoming and social atmosphere. When we vacation, we hike, bike, kayak, surf, horse-back rideyou get the idea. Our home offers a view of the entire Monterey Bay and sits atop a hilltop with lots of privacy. I would hang around Morro Bay for some water activity and marine mammal observation. Even the hostels in Santa Barbara are upscale. Twin Lakes is the next beach, just on the other side of the harbor. I think the decision really depends on what you want to do and see and your overall plan. Our Trip started in Santa Monica ending in SF. The Santa Cruz area includes the towns of Santa Cruz, Aptos, Capitola, and Soquel. The seaside town of Santa Cruz is one of the coolest places in California. 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. Santa Cruz County vs. Monterey County: Who Ya Got? | Good Times There are plenty of restaurants, bars and clubs nearby, and the beach is just a short walk away. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Enjoy delicious food and drinks at Red Restaurant and Bar. The aquarium in Monterey is a big draw, and it is very good. Monterey (Spanish: Monterrey; Ohlone: Aacistak) is a city located in Monterey County on the southern edge of Monterey Bay on California's Central Coast. Avila Beach is warm in that area. 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 ? Take that one, as its beautiful and different from Highway 1. It's a small, funky lil beach town with shops, casual restaurants & beach access. Both places are fun and beautiful with a lot to see! There are several Best Westerns in town. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-41177793', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Francisco the first week of August. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Don't know if your kids would be that interested in that, mine were 20 and 17 so it was different for us. This charming hotel is one of our top picks for where to stay in Santa Cruz with kids if youre on a budget. Stay the night in Carmel or Monterey and leave early for Big Sur. 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. 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. Answer 1 of 19: Driving the coast from SF to LA. Obviously the true hippies have moved on but the areas still have a bit of that feel and try and remain colorful as opposed to going mainstream. My family of four is taking a 13 day trip to San Francisco (3 days), Yosemite (2 days) and down the coast ending in LA. Where to Stay in Santa Cruz, California (2023 COOLEST Areas!) This post has been removed at the author's request. Even if your kids don''t surf, it is fascinating to watch tht surfers from the bluff. Browse the tiny but interesting Aptos History Museum. We saw the Hearst Castle. Alternatively, you may use, InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel, http://www.montereypeninsula.info/guide/beaches.htm. Founded on June 3, 1770, it was the capital of Alta California under both Spain and Mexico. ISO Ocean front rental or hotel in the Monterey area. 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. Flora Vista Inn is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. Theres also a laundry service and pool on-site. Hearst Castle is currently closed due to COVID. Even better, a night stay comes with free use of one of the motel's beach bikes. I think between (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? My website describes local beaches in further detail: http://www.montereypeninsula.info/guide/beaches.htm. Things to Do. 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. Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! It is comprised of 16 modern rooms with an excellent array of amenities and features. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpackers. Santa Cruz has a hippie vibe downtown. More information. Carmel is next to Monterey, which is a quaint upscale village with plenty of nice restaurants, boutiques, and tasting rooms. 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. Like Kibblesmom said, they are only 45 minutes apart. Th most breathtaking of Highway 1 is when you leave the Cambria area for the next 2hours. 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. This shabby-chic hotel is just steps from the beach, the Boardwalk, great restaurants and lively nightlife. Breakfast options. Enjoy an awesome meal with a great view at Sanderlings Restaurant. That is, as long as you don't get stuck in traffic. The outdoor area is shared with the other unit but offers a cute patio and a BBQ. I find people to be friendly, generally. Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market andditch the plastic. 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. 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. There is one near the Holiday Inn Express, which is on Ocean Street which leads into town and one at the Boardwalk. The room is spacious, with a comfy bed and has a private bathroom. Is this true? Highway 1 is washed out and closed. I think my kids would love it. Hope this helps a bit! It is world class. Monterey Hotel Deals; Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor 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. Once you hit Ventura, then you'll be on the coast through Santa Barbara. 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. They are adjacent. 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. Our decision now is what to do with the THREE DAYS we have. Edited: 01 June . Take the second exit out of the roundabout, and follow the signs to Pebble Beach. Best Boutique Hotels in Monterey. This is also the best area in Santa Cruz to stay in for nightlife. Where To Stay In Monterey, California: 15 Great | Trip101 Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor During the summer the surf on Carmel city beach is relatively tame, and people do play in the water, but not without some risk. Spend a day basking on the sands of New Brighton State Beach. 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. 2023, The Broke Backpacker. The price is $209 per night. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to SF. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. Kickstart your day with a filling and delicious breakfast at Zeldas. Best deals for Monterey Bay Aquarium tickets? There are loads of places that are great for family days out, and of course, the beach. 1. . Eat incredible and fresh seafood, pasta and more at Caf Rio. Both are great. It has large rooms with air conditioning, private bathroom and contemporary amenities. There are some nice restaurants but not as many as Monterey or Carmel. Seriously. Santa Cruz is more of a classic CA beach town with a surf culture and an eclectic downtown. Aptos is our top pick for families. What is between Santa Cruz and Monterey? - signalduo.com Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor There are beaches, but the coastline is more rocky, which is beautiful and means that you have more opportunity to see sea animals. 126 216 r/travel Join 8 days ago I don't know Santa Cruz beaches well enough to speak with authority, but Monterey Peninsula area beaches aren't especially safe for swimming. In short, Santa Cruz is without a doubt one of California's best-kept secrets. Visitors to Santa Cruz particularly seem to like the entertainment choices and beaches, which are great ways to discover the local area. Thanks! Of course, Henry Cowell state park is closer to Santa Cruz, so SC would be more convenient for that. When you're ready to start your road trip, head to Lands End then drive south along the coast. You also have the Boardwalk, which is a seaside amusement park - rides, including an historic wooden roller coaster, games, waffle cones. Required fields are marked *. Natural Bridges and other beach parks. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to SF. Right now, It's all a bit overwhelming so if anyone could help me figure out what's best I would really really appreciate it! And let us not overlook Ostrichland in Buellton. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-41998478', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');West Cliff Drive. We were planning to stay in Monterey one night. The ocean is cold but you can swim in it especially from Capitola south. My biggest problem is finding rooms that accommodate 6. The very next year there were bare feet and jeans and long hair and granny dresses. Midtown is an eclectic neighbourhood located east of the city centre. We also love seeing wildlife. Monterey is farther south, so if you only have 2 nights, then Monterey would break up the drive more evenly than Santa Cruz would. Is Santa Cruz safe? Listed below are the top historic hotels in Monterey, California, that you can scroll over and book now. Making a trip in sept to Monterey , Carmel then Santa Cruz 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. I think my kids would love it. Downtown is quite historic - Monterey was the first capitol of CA and there are several buildings from that time in the Monterey Historic Park and through downtown. Surf City Inn & Suites is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. Take a photo at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay for some great memories without a hefty price tag. Still not sure which of Santa Cruzs best neighbourhoods is right for you? This stunning three-star property is ideally located in La Selva Beach. Surf City Inn & Suites is your best bet for budget Santa Cruz accommodation in Midtown. This property has five bedrooms with great features and stunning views. And it is farther from stuff. Once you hit Ventura, then you'll be on the coast through Santa Barbara. 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. This is a much nicer route than I-5, which is really boring. 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. Do you have any recommendations? 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. Would you recommend one? Why is Santa Cruz warmer than Monterey? It is worth a half day plus to go to Monterey, see the acquarium, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? You can usually see plenty of marine wildlife from shore, especially if you go along the coastal recreation trail, which runs for miles. Reserve now, pay when you stay. Don't know if your kids would be that interested in that, mine were 20 and 17 so it was different for us. Santa Cruz vs Monterrey/Carmel First Timer. Please help! :) Both SC and Monterey have good options for dinner and good lodging. We've also never been to Cali if that makes a difference. Highway 1 Gate: This 17-Mile Drive entrance is off of exit 399A. Big Sur Closed -- Should we stay in Santa Cruz or Monterey?? - Santa Twin Lakes Beach is a good one. 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. Things to Do - Visit Santa Cruz County Walking in Carmel reminded me of being in a European town with it's interesting storefronts, side streets and small nooks and crannies. The most breathtaking part of the drive is through Big Sur, which is the stretch of coast between Cambria and Carmel. Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruises A humpback whale breaches in Monterey Bay. Our decision now is what to do with the THREE DAYS we have. My home beach is Seabright, which is just over the river. Thanks all! The wharf and cannery row are more prominent in Monterey, and the aquarium is a big draw. I hesitate to recommend either based on "must-sees" since that is such a personal decision. Thank you for your input. Carmel/Pacific Grove vs Santa Cruz - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums Pop by the La Selva Library, which regularly hosts family-friendly events. It is world class. Fun place! Should we. more. The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary (2022) We took 101 from LA to Canbria and it was just a gorgeous drive..I wouldn't have imagined that. See a show at the intimate and awesome Rio Theatre. Stay in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? - Santa Cruz Forum - Tripadvisor Photos and Property Details for 1190 WARREN DR, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060. The Best Western is ideally located in Capitola, Santa Cruzs best neighbourhood for hipsters, trendsetters and cool kids. Both are stunningly beautiful, but the city beach is safer than the River beach. tour along the Highway 1 from San Francisco to LA? Th most breathtaking of Highway 1 is when you leave the Cambria area for the next 2hours. Looking for a specific place to stay? You won't regret it. Would one be better than the other for dinner/accommodations? Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you.