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World Nomads mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. Natural Bridges and other beach parks. Get excited here are our best recommendations for where to stay in Santa Cruz, California, USA. Driving the coast from SF to LA. In Santa Cruz, in addition to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, there is the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? I'd love to see that hippie vibe back in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The most breathtaking part of the drive is through Big Sur, which is the stretch of coast between Cambria and Carmel. Twin Lakes Beach is a good one. On the first leg, we are trying to decide if we should sleep in Santa Cruz or Monterrey? Reserve now, pay when you stay. Santa Cruz has a more tie-dye and granola feel . We were in CA last June and stayed in Santa Cruz, and visited the Aquarium. If approved by the National Ocean and Atmospheric Association, the new sanctuary will provide the missing link in a chain of . The Best Western in Aptos is one of our best recommendation for where to stay in Santa Cruz for families. It also offers easy access to the beach as well as many of Santa Cruzs most famous attractions and landmarks. Our decision now is what to do with the THREE DAYS we have. They are adjacent. It is especially good if this is your first time visiting. Hi - I'm traveling to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. Well, dont worry because in this next section were going to break each of them down in much more detail. This is the longest stretch. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. 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. It offers easy access throughout the neighbourhood and is close to restaurants, the beach and bars. Close, Where to Stay in Santa Cruz, California (2023 COOLEST Areas! Here is a traveler article on Santa Cruz to help describe it. Since you have plenty of time for the trip from SF to LA, distance isn't a factor. They are located at opposite ends of the same bay, so the area for whale watching is pretty much the same from either town. These are some top choices for places to stay: Monterey: Pacific Inn Monterey (Budget), The Stevenson Monterey (Mid-Range), Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa (Luxury) & Beachside House (Private Rental) ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77301030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Santa Cruz! Browse the buzzing Sunday Art & Music at the Beach events throughout the summer. Midtown is an eclectic neighbourhood located east of the city centre. 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. The aquarium in Monterey is a big draw, and it is very good. And conversely, if you choose to stay in Monterey, you can see SC on the way there. Eat incredible and fresh seafood, pasta and more at Caf Rio. Go for a hike through Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. HI-Santa Cruz Hostel is one of our favourites in Santa Cruz, California but theyre not taking guests right now. You can pretty much expect all indoor attractions to be closed until conditions improve markedly. Pop by the La Selva Library, which regularly hosts family-friendly events. 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. 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. Visit the free-admission Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for a day of fun, games, rides, sweets, treats and so much more. You won't regret it. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172993', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nepenthe. Situated south of Downtown, the Boardwalk spans the seaside and is home to buzzing attractions, busy restaurants, and cosy cafes. There may be homeless, but they are everywhere now. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. In short, Santa Cruz is without a doubt one of California's best-kept secrets. Try to help and people have to go on a rant. Since (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Andril Fireplace Cottages Seven Gables Inn Carmel Cottage Inn Casa Munras Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row Monterey Bay Inn. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. Also be aware that Highway 1 between (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Escape the crowds at artsy and secluded Capitola Beach. We were planning to stay in Monterey one night. When is your trip planned for? This property has five bedrooms with great features and stunning views. 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 were planning to stay in Monterey one night. There is one near the Holiday Inn Express, which is on Ocean Street which leads into town and one at the Boardwalk. I would also use this term to describe the Haight Ashbury neighborhood generically. So its up to you what you want to do. I hesitate to recommend either based on "must-sees" since that is such a personal decision. Santa Cruzs Boardwalk neighbourhood is one of the liveliest and most vibrant districts in the city. We have been to several large aquariums over the years just not that one. 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. Its fun and your younger kids would probably love it. Theres also a large, fully-stocked kitchen. 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 know about the road - we are going go around the long way to Paso Robles to miss the construction.. It is conveniently located near the Boardwalk and there are plenty of shops, restaurants and bars within walking distance. Visiting the coolest area of Santa Cruz requires staying at an even cooler place. This charming hotel is an excellent place to make your base in Capitola because there are plenty of shopping, dining and nightlife options nearby. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172030', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car ride. Should we. Theres also an outdoor swimming pool and a Jacuzzi. 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. Another good beach is Seacliff State Beach in Aptos. But, despite its small size, choosing the best neighbourhood to stay in Santa Cruz can be a challenge. Two of the most popular beach(es) in Santa Cruz itself are Seabright and Twin Lakes. Home; For Rent. Re: Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? 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. $209. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-109324334', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey Bay Aquarium. Listed below are the top historic hotels in Monterey, California, that you can scroll over and book now. Hi - I'm traveling to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! Santa Cruz is more beachy - lots of wide, sandy beaches, a good surf culture, historic seaside amusement park, eclectic downtown, etc. Currently we have the below planned. The Best Western is ideally located in Capitola, Santa Cruzs best neighbourhood for hipsters, trendsetters and cool kids. Situated south of Downtown, the Boardwalk spans the seaside and is home to buzzing attractions, busy restaurants, and cosy cafes. Thanks everyone for the tips and 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. And for transparencys sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Walk the tiny .6-mile-long . ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63170412', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');California early next August. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. Avila Beach is warm in that area. Don't know if your kids would be that interested in that, mine were 20 and 17 so it was different for us. Monterey is more diverse and touristy and you can find more moderate lodging than Carmel. Right now Highway 1 isn't passable through the Big Sur area due to a road wash out. Monterey Properties; Santa Clara Properties; Santa Cruz Properties; Fresno Properties; Short Term Rentals; List Your Rental; Residents; Owners; Contact; Blog; FAQs; Pay Rent. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-77282033', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Monterey/Carmel area. I always put up overflow family at the Holiday Inn Express during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Highway 1 Gate: This 17-Mile Drive entrance is off of exit 399A. . For a vacation rental option, try this South Lake Union condo near the Space Needle ( from $160/night ). 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. 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. Posted 2:23:02 AM. . ISO Ocean front rental or hotel in the Monterey area. This unit was designed and built by an architect who has a great eye for style and detail. Both SC and Monterey have good options for dinner and good lodging. Grab a drink at the Asti, an old-school dive bar. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. I think my kids would love it. You can whale watch from either town. No matter where you are in the neighbourhood, youll find yourself surrounded by great tunes. Located in the heart of Monterey Bay between Santa Cruz and Monterey, 4 miles inland of Moss Landing, 20 miles from Santa Cruz and 15-18 miles from Monterey and Carmel. Spend another night closer to Santa Barbara. You can usually see plenty of marine wildlife from shore, especially if you go along the coastal recreation trail, which runs for miles. 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. Guests can enjoy a heated swimming pool, free wifi and a delicious daily breakfast. This contemporary hotel has comfortable rooms with excellent features and amenities. What is your lodging budget? 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. Open to suggestions. It seems like there are lots of mom and pop hotels. Feast on mouthwatering pub fare at 99 Bottles Restaurant & Pub. This nature-rich . Yall are great! There is one near the Holiday Inn Express, which is on Ocean Street which leads into town and one at the Boardwalk. We watched it that morning and DS said it was his favorite gift. The earliest known filming took place in Monterey in 1897, compared to Santa Cruz's first foray into film in 1915. We saw the Hearst Castle. We also like pit stops - a couple things we were looking at to pit stop are Hearst Castle, Madonna Inn. It is only a few years old and is a very nice hotel. Monterey is more coastal - there are some beaches too, but the coastline is rocky so the focus is more on scenery and wildlife. Browse the tiny but interesting Aptos History Museum. Still not sure which of Santa Cruzs best neighbourhoods is right for you? 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. 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. The Monterey Hotel (from USD 112) Come and experience full-blown comfort at The Monterey Hotel. Monterey is more coastal - there are some beaches too, but the coastline is rocky so the focus is more on scenery and wildlife. That was sort of cool to see. Hope this helps a bit! Manresa isn't as good for swimming though. You'll enjoy a meal of shrimp, oysters and clam chowder after your day in the town or hunting for killer whales and dolphin pods while sailing the pacific. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Even if your kids don''t surf, it is fascinating to watch tht surfers from the bluff. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Sip a glass of wine aboard the Chardonnay II. However, don't expect warm water in Santa Cruz, either. If youre still not sure where to stay in Santa Cruz, consider checking out these amazing treehouses in California! Theres also a laundry service and pool on-site. Dig into an amazing meal any time of day at Ideal Bar & Grill. The Midtown/Seabright neighbourhood is packed with bustling bars and buzzing breweries where you can enjoy a laidback drink or two. Monterey is a quintessential north California ocean town in the USA and has a great population of marine wildlife and fresh seafood. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:21 pm drive for about 5 minutes 4:26 pm arrive in Monterey stay at Mission Ranch Hotel driving 1.5 hours Change your route From: To: Alternate route Enter a city to drive through, or find all trips from Santa Cruz to Monterey. Re: Stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? Monterey is 8.8\% less expensive than Santa Cruz. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It has shifted to meth heads and needles. Located in the best position, you wont have to walk far to the main hotspots youll definitely enjoy your time at this place. Then you head inland a bit, still scenic though, and meet back up with the coast later. I have the time but worry about the length of the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. 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. 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. Would one be better than the other for dinner/accommodations? The best one is the Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, further down on Ocean Street. If you do choose to spend the night in Santa Cruz, then you can see Monterey on your way to Big Sur. My biggest problem is finding rooms that accommodate 6. I would choose one location and spend 2 nights. 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. In Santa Cruz County, the fun only begins at the beach. The Boardwalk is also our pick for the best neighbourhood in Santa Cruz to stay in if youre on a budget. View details, map and photos of this residential lots property with 0 bedrooms and 0 total baths. When we vacation, we hike, bike, kayak, surf, horse-back rideyou get the idea. You might want to consider two adjoining rooms. Henry Cowell is 15 minutes away. It has pristine beaches and a laid back atmosphere, while also boasting incredible food, lively nightlife and lush natural surroundings. Both are good choices. Another consideration is your overall plan - how many nights do you have for your drive down the coast? The first class of the University of Santa Cruz campus in 1965 appeared in chinos and skirts and cashmere sweaters. Best deals for Monterey Bay Aquarium tickets? KSCO Live Show: 831-479-1080 KSCO Office: 831-475-1080 Important! I would chose whichever town seems like the best fit for what you want to do and see. It was incredible. The beach at Capitola Village is good - there are a lot of shops and restaurants just off the beach, so that can be fun. We love Capitola. If you want classic beach stuff - laying out, volleyball, playing in the waves, Santa Cruz is what you want. 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). 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. Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop! Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, laundry facilities, a golf course and a restaurant. In this Santa Cruz neighbourhood guide, well look at the best places to stay based on what you want to do. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. Want more deetz on why we love itso damn much? 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. Earn free nights and get our Price Guarantee - booking has never been easier on Hotels.com! Enjoy delicious food and drinks at Red Restaurant and Bar. tour along the Highway 1 from San Francisco to LA? 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! This hotel has 49 cosy, clean and comfortable rooms. 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. There are several Best Westerns in town. Rooms come complete with A/C and include refrigerators. Even the hostels in Santa Barbara are upscale. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. It is world class. The outdoor area is shared with the other unit but offers a cute patio and a BBQ. Monterey is best for families and budget-conscious travellers, while Carmel is best for couples, foodies and shoppers. Thanks all! Monterey or Santa Cruz. Yes, finding a room which would hold a family of 6 is definitely a problem. Are there a lot of must dos in Santa Cruz? 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. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Santa Cruz is more of a beachy town with lots of wide, sandy beaches, the Boardwalk amusement park, an eclectic downtown, strong surfing culture. Thanks SO much :). This historic motel in Santa Cruz is one of the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. See the ruins of the S.S. Palo Alto Concrete Ship. 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. Enjoy a great selection of sweet and savoury dishes at the Crepe Place, a longstanding Santa Cruz favourite. Show more. I've put together a San Francisco city guide to give you some ideas. 400 plus pictures, but I digress. What is the most breathtaking part of hwy 1? 126 216 r/travel Join 8 days ago This charming Inn is centrally located in Santa Cruz. Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel. Nobody remembers that this was happening all over the country. We stayed in Cambria overnight, it took about 4hours to get there. 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. 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. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63170412', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');California early next August. Its just that easy. This delightful hotel is one of the best places in Santa Cruz to stay in because it has a great central location. 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. 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. Best Boutique Hotels in Monterey. I am considering whale watching and hiking in the Henry Cowell Redwood park among other things. If not, may I suggest another helping of Wallace Baine? Want to be featured in our list? The Monerey Bay Aquarium is not to miss there. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. And it is farther from stuff. And oftentimes good food in that range. This shabby-chic hotel is just steps from the beach, the Boardwalk, great restaurants and lively nightlife. Tucked throughout the neighbourhood are a good variety of galleries and shops that showcase the excellent works of local artists, musicians, actors and writers. InterContinental The Clement Monterey (from USD 304) The oceanfront views from the InterContinental Clement Monterey will absolutely take your breath away. Of course, Henry Cowell state park is closer to Santa Cruz, so SC would be more convenient for that. It has a great central location and is close to restaurants, shops, the beach and more. It is close to popular tourist attractions as well as dining, nightlife and shopping options. Highway 1 through Santa Cruz has a lot of traffic in mornings and after 3. 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. The beach is wide and good for walking. It also extends on the other side of the harbor entrance. Part of the trip will include a trip up hwy 1. Travel south from here and youll arrive in the busy and buzzing Boardwalk neighbourhood. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-63172993', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Nepenthe. I'm wondering with four kids (11,9,7,5) should we stay in Monterey or Santa Cruz? For things to see on the Monterey Peninsula see https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g580824-Activities-Monterey_Peninsula_California.html (Click on California Coast June '11), Driving routes and options from SFO to Monterey. Once you hit Ventura, then you'll be on the coast through Santa Barbara. Sip drinks and enjoy cheap bars games at lively One Double Oh Seven Club. Th most breathtaking of Highway 1 is when you leave the Cambria area for the next 2hours. I was trying to give a VERY general description as to how the areas differ. Breakfast options. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. Don't stay at any with "Boardwalk" in the name.. We saw the Hearst Castle. It has a convenient location, comfortable beds, and a great range of amenities and features. Like Kibblesmom said, they are only 45 minutes apart. Hwy 101 is nicely scenic though too. Santa Cruz is more beachy - lots of wide, sandy beaches, a good surf culture, historic seaside amusement park, eclectic downtown, etc. It is a really vibrant and colourful area of Santa Barbara, and it reallys really unique. Continue on to Pacific Grove and stay at Asilomar (again) or. It is world class. This excellent three-star hotel is set in central Midtown, one of the best places in Santa Cruz to stay for nightlife. It's among the best places to stay in Monterey, CA. It's myself and my husband and we are going the first week in May. 400 plus pictures, but I digress. In Santa Cruz, you can travel from the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary to the Redwoods without a car. 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. The seaside town of Santa Cruz is one of the coolest places in California. Should I drive hwy 1 that part of the journey? See a show at the intimate and awesome Rio Theatre. I think the decision really depends on what you want to do and see and your overall plan. We were in CA last June and stayed in Santa Cruz, and visited the Aquarium. With all of the educational institutions we have, it has an international feel to it, and many good restaurants. 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. For Dead Doctors Don't Lie Use: 888-379-2552 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. The very next year there were bare feet and jeans and long hair and granny dresses. Which is exactly why I put together this guide to the best places to stay in Santa Cruz. Sip seaside cocktails at Bay Bar and Grill. Although it might be a little more upmarket compared to other areas of Santa Cruz, trust me when I say, it worth the splurge! 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. In Santa Cruz, in addition to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, there is the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads usingthis link. If you can, stop there for a bite to eat. We spend a lot of time in the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? This is also the best area in Santa Cruz to stay in for nightlife. Drink fresh and handcrafted beers at the Seabright Brewery. Walking in Carmel reminded me of being in a European town with it's interesting storefronts, side streets and small nooks and crannies. Are there a lot of must dos in Santa Cruz? Compare 578 hotels, room rates, hotel reviews and availability. Each room comes complete with a minibar, kitchenette and wireless internet access. Get answers to your questions about Monterey, Monterey Peninsula Trip Report w/photos. Another excellent option is the Rio Vista Inn & Suites Santa Cruz.