My biggest problem is finding rooms that accommodate 6. Even if your kids don''t surf, it is fascinating to watch tht surfers from the bluff. Grab a drink at the Asti, an old-school dive bar. Each room comes complete with a minibar, kitchenette and wireless internet access. We were in CA last June and stayed in Santa Cruz, and visited the Aquarium. You won't regret it. Should I drive hwy 1 that part of the journey? Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we dont believe are up to scratch. And let us not overlook Ostrichland in Buellton. Things to Do - Visit Santa Cruz County The wharf and cannery row are more prominent in Monterey, and the aquarium is a big draw. That is, as long as you don't get stuck in traffic. Is Santa Cruz safe? Best Cheap Hotels in Santa Cruz from $64 | Hotels.com Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor Looking for a specific place to stay? Santa Cruz has a hippie vibe downtown. Thanks everyone for the tips and recommendations. Should we. Since youre staying two nights in Big Sur you can easily see Monterey while there. Home [ksco.com] Santa Cruzs Boardwalk neighbourhood is one of the liveliest and most vibrant districts in the city. Santa Cruz does have a scenic ocean area like Monterey and Carmel. Watch Sunsets of the Monterey Bay From a Hilltop Villa Monterey has more wildlife-focused sites to visit. Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? - Monterey Forum - Tripadvisor Traffic is nothing like what you find in the big city (except during events like Car Week). 400 plus pictures, but I digress. Hope this helps a bit! I would take Hwy 101 north to San Luis Obispo and pick up Hwy 1 there. What is your next planned stop and how many days/nights total do you have for the coastal section of your trip? Find your new favourite book at the legendary Bookshop Santa Cruz. How do I get from San Jose to Santa Cruz without a car? - 2023 My plan now is to drive up from Pasadena to San Simeon via hwy 5 and then pick up hwy 1. I would choose one location and spend 2 nights. Henry Cowell is 15 minutes away. For Dead Doctors Don't Lie Use: 888-379-2552 The Best Western in Aptos is one of our best recommendation for where to stay in Santa Cruz for families. Shop for everything from souvenirs to fine art and pottery in Rio del Mar. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Note that nightlife is laregely confined to weekends in Santa Cruz. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? We also love seeing wildlife. :). The Monterey Hotel (from USD 112) Come and experience full-blown comfort at The Monterey Hotel. The city of Santa Cruz boasts a string of sandy beaches and a historic wharf. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. Your email address will not be published. With over 14 state parks, wineries, museums, farmer's markets, surfing, shopping, and family fun activities, there are plenty of things to do. Continue travelling east along the coast to Capitola. I would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. For Sale - 7855 Monterra Oaks Rd, Monterey, CA - $1,900,000. There are several Best Westerns in town. The other difference between the areas you mention is that Carmel is higher-end real estate. If you have a map, start at the San Lorenzo River and go south the the Yacht Harbor. Sip a glass of wine aboard the Chardonnay II. Its kind of a funky sort of place, a bit off-beat. 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. There are no modern hippies. Find quality homes and apartments for rent and property management in Santa Clara, San Jose, Monterey and elsewhere in coastal Central California. If you want classic beach stuff - laying out, volleyball, playing in the waves, Santa Cruz is what you want. The Municipal Wharf is near the Boardwalk and Stagnaro Bros. takes boats out on the Bay for whale watching. We have two girls, 15 and 10 and are an active family and love adventure, the beach, amusement parks and nature. A couple, family w/kids, etc ? See Bixby Creek Bridge, hike McWay Falls, spend time at San Dollar Beach before reaching San Luis Obispo for the night. It is the bordering town to Monterey. Rooms from $159/night, book on Booking.com or Hotels.com. Set in central California, Santa Cruz is the epitome of west coast cool. See a show at the intimate and awesome Rio Theatre. Show more. Exclusive Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Vacation Deals If not, may I suggest another helping of Wallace Baine? Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel. Also, can any give me some input on hwy1 from LA up to San Simeon. Breakfast options. 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. Take the second exit out of the roundabout, and follow the signs to Pebble Beach. It also offers easy access to the beach as well as many of Santa Cruzs most famous attractions and landmarks. Browse the tiny but interesting Aptos History Museum. This post has been removed at the author's request. Surf City Inn & Suites is your best bet for budget Santa Cruz accommodation in Midtown. Also, I'm thinking of staying at the Best Western in Morro Bay. :) Report inappropriate content november_moon San Jose, California Destination Expert for California Level Contributor 24,101 posts 138 reviews 71 helpful votes 8. Keep in mind that as beautiful as (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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). There are plenty of restaurants, bars and clubs nearby, and the beach is just a short walk away. Your decision sounds great! We stayed in Cambria overnight, it took about 4hours to get there. Take State Park Drive from Hwy 1. Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. 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. 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. More information. 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. This unit was designed and built by an architect who has a great eye for style and detail. Santa Cruz is more of a beachy town with lots of wide, sandy beaches, the Boardwalk amusement park, an eclectic downtown, strong surfing culture. 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. 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. Highway 1 Gate: This 17-Mile Drive entrance is off of exit 399A. Driving from LA to Monterey - First time - help. Carmel Beach is beautiful for romantic walks and just enjoying the view, but the water is cold and rip currents are common. Since you have plenty of time for the trip from SF to LA, distance isn't a factor. Hi - I'm traveling to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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! We've also never been to Cali if that makes a difference. Stops and things to do on Monterey to Santa Cruz drive or road trip With all of the educational institutions we have, it has an international feel to it, and many good restaurants. The downtown areass of Monterey and Carmel are nicer. I would stay in Santa Cruz (or Capitola or Aptos) and then take a day trip or two to Monterey. Take a photo at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay for some great memories without a hefty price tag. Dig into an amazing meal any time of day at Ideal Bar & Grill. 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. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It has shifted to meth heads and needles. Delve deep into the history of the neighbourhood and region at the Capitola Historical Museum. My biggest problem is finding rooms that accommodate 6. Highway 1 through Santa Cruz has a lot of traffic in mornings and after 3. Our Trip started in Santa Monica ending in SF. I would have a hard time finding stuff to . For things to see on the Monterey Peninsula see https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g580824-Activities-Monterey_Peninsula_California.html Splash, swim and play at Rio del Mar beach. And for transparencys sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. 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. Like Kibblesmom said, they are only 45 minutes apart. Also.. is Santa Cruz a better beach destination for those that actually want to spend a little time in the water? There are beaches, but the coastline is more rocky, which is beautiful and means that you have more opportunity to see sea animals. Paso Robles, San Simeon, Morro Bay and Pismo Beach are all within an hour of each other. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Edited: 01 June . It seems like there are lots of mom and pop hotels. It is worth a half day plus to go to Monterey, see the acquarium, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Both are good choices, it really depends on the atmosphere that you want. We have interest in outdoor eating, swimming/lounging on the beach, live music and natures beauty (but we're not huge hikers or anything). If you choose Santa Cruz, check rates at the Dream Inn or Sea and Sand. The Vagabond's House Hotel Abrego Tradewinds Carmel Spindrift Inn Cypress Inn Tickle Pink Inn. What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? 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. We have been to several large aquariums over the years just not that one. Request additional information, schedule a showing, save to your property organizer. Shop until you drop at the Pacific Garden Mall. Both SC and Monterey have good options for dinner and good lodging. A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic booooring. I'm planning on staying 2 nights and then heading to. So whether youre looking to relax, surf, eat or party, Santa Cruz is a city that has something amazing for travellers of all ages, styles and even budgets. There is a popular surfing spot at Lighthouse Field. Reserve now, pay when you stay. It's myself and my husband and we are going the first week in May. 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. netllama 7 yr. ago The driving time between Monterrey & Santa Cruz is about an hour. Santa Cruz is the beach locals go to for sun and water activities. Take 101, it's much more pleasant than I-5. You might want to consider two adjoining rooms. 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. My website describes local beaches in further detail: http://www.montereypeninsula.info/guide/beaches.htm. Big Sur Closed -- Should we stay in Santa Cruz or Monterey?? - Santa 1190 WARREN DR, SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060 - montereybayprop.com My plan now is to drive up from Pasadena to San Simeon via hwy 5 and then pick up hwy 1. I would take Hwy 101 north to San Luis Obispo and pick up Hwy 1 there. Theres also an outdoor swimming pool and on-site parking. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172993', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nepenthe. It is located at the heart of Santa Cruz and is just a stones throw from great dining, shopping and nightlife options. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. In this Santa Cruz neighbourhood guide, well look at the best places to stay based on what you want to do. This room allows you to have a great home while not having to empty your bank account completely. This article was written by travellers for travellers. 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. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car ride. Even at its warmest, the ocean along the California coast remains cool compared to beaches in the tropics or even Florida. Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Cruz, an IHG Hotel. Both are good choices. Is the aquarium in Monterey worth going to? 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). Both are great. 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. 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. Catch a show at Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. Where to Stay in Santa Cruz, California (2023 COOLEST Areas!) 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. Santa Cruz County vs. Monterey County: Who Ya Got? | Good Times Have a fun trip! Monterey is more diverse and touristy and you can find more moderate lodging than Carmel. Again, thank you! Road Trip: Where to stay Monterey or Santa Cruz? - Tripadvisor Enjoy an awesome meal with a great view at Sanderlings Restaurant. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car ride. Carmel is next to Monterey, which is a quaint upscale village with plenty of nice restaurants, boutiques, and tasting rooms. The Capitola Venetian Hotel is close to everything the neighbourhood has to offer. Eat incredible and fresh seafood, pasta and more at Caf Rio. Both are good choices. Spend a day basking on the sands of New Brighton State Beach. Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf are touristy, but downtown isn't really - they are all close together though. Santa Cruz seamlessly blends its relaxed beach lifestyle with a vibrant culture and some high tech industry. 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. Should I: Stay at a hotel in Santa Cruz?. 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. 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. What is your lodging budget? 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. 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. 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 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. Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California - Located deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains, it is California's oldest state park. Hotel in Watsonville, CA | Comfort Inn Official Site | Comfort Inn They won't hurt yu. Via: Where should I stop along the way? The first class of the University of Santa Cruz campus in 1965 appeared in chinos and skirts and cashmere sweaters. Santa Cruz vs Monterrey/Carmel First Timer. Please help! :) Field Service Technician-Must reside in the Salinas/Gilroy/Monterey It has pristine beaches and a laid back atmosphere, while also boasting incredible food, lively nightlife and lush natural surroundings. Close, Where to Stay in Santa Cruz, California (2023 COOLEST Areas! I am considering whale watching and hiking in the Henry Cowell Redwood park among other things. Would one be better than the other for dinner/accommodations? Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip {25 Stops + 7 Day Guide} - California