Motel Santa Cruz Exterior photoMotel Santa Cruz Exterior photoMotel Santa Cruz Exterior photo

MOTEL SANTA CRUZ, Santa Cruz

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Check rooms and rates
From$65 /night
Check-in
01Aug
Check-out
02Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room

About the Hotel

1015 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz, 95060-
Steps from the beach

Key Highlights

10-minute walk to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the pier.

Free private parking on site with no reservation needed; security cameras cover the lot.

Newly renovated rooms available with wood flooring, comfortable beds, and in-room fridges and microwaves.

24-hour front desk and check-in available until midnight.

Hotel Details

Location

Just a 10-minute walk to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and pier, with easy access to the Museum of Art and History and Monterey Bay Whale Watch.
The motel is located 4 blocks from the beach and a 10-minute walk from the Boardwalk and pier, offering a practical base for seaside activities. Golden Palace and Little Caesars are both 0.5 km away. The surrounding area includes shopping centers and restaurants. For those driving, on-site parking is free and does not require a reservation, though the lot can fill up; street parking with meters is an alternative after 8 pm. The immediate neighborhood has been described as having some visible wear, but the location is valued for its proximity to family trip destinations and local attractions.

Accommodation

Rooms come with private bathrooms, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with cable, and in-room fridges and microwaves; renovated rooms offer parquet floors and a cleaner feel.
The motel offers double and king bed configurations, with some rooms recently renovated to include wood flooring, modern fixtures, and comfortable bedding. All rooms include a private bathroom with a bath and shower, hairdryer, air conditioning, heating, a washing machine, a sofa, and city views. In-room amenities feature a fridge, microwave, and cable TV. Room size varies; some units are compact with limited floor space. Road-facing rooms are often noted as noisy, while those away from Ocean Street tend to be quieter. Renovated rooms are consistently described as clean and well-maintained, but older units may show signs of wear, including stained linens or mold, so requesting an updated room is recommended.

Dining

No on-site restaurant or breakfast service is available, but the motel has a vending machine for snacks and drinks, and several dining options are within a short walk.
The property does not operate a restaurant or offer a breakfast service. Snacks and drinks are available from a vending machine on site. For prepared meals, Golden Palace and Little Caesars are 0.5 km away, and The Buttery and Solaire Restaurant + Bar are within 0.5 km. The location provides easy access to a variety of nearby food choices, making it straightforward to plan meals independently.

Wellness and Leisure

No pool, spa, or wellness facilities are available on site.
The motel does not have a swimming pool, spa, or wellness centre. Leisure amenities are limited to the on-site garden area. The primary recreational advantage is the proximity to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, pier, and ocean within a 10-minute walk, where swimming, beach activities, and amusement park attractions are accessible.

Facilities and Services

Free Wi-Fi and free private parking with security cameras, plus 24-hour front desk and coin laundry available for an additional charge.
The motel offers free Wi-Fi throughout the property and free private parking on site without a reservation, monitored by CCTV in common areas and the parking lot. Services include a 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping at no extra cost, currency exchange, a minimarket on site, and a barber/beauty shop. Laundry is available for an additional charge. Key card access and smoke alarms are in place for security. The property is wheelchair accessible with grab rails in toilets. Check-in requires a valid ID and a $100 deposit, ideally in cash. The front desk can accommodate group room requests made by phone before booking. The lot has spaces for accessible parking.
Highly rated by guestsof Motel Santa Cruz
Great locationClean roomsComfortable bedAmple parking
  • Room Features

    Clean and Updated

    “The newly renovated rooms feature wood flooring. A fridge and microwave are included. The bathroom was also updated.”

    Humphrey from United Kingdom
    Review on
  • Bathroom

    Modern Comforts

    “The bathroom remodel was newer. Shampoo is provided in the shower, with strong water pressure.”

    Brandon from Canada
    Review on
  • Bedroom

    Comfortable Night

    “The bed was very comfortable. There were USB and USBC ports on both sides of the bed for charging.”

    Peter from Australia
    Review on
  • Guest Parking

    Easy Access

    “Parking was easy, and the location puts you on a direct path to the wharf or boardwalk.”

    Michael from United States
    Review on

Critical Operational Notes

  • Check-in: 15:00 to 00:00; Check-out: until 11:00; late check-out available until 12:00.
  • A $100 cash deposit is recommended at check-in; cash and debit cards are accepted.
  • Pets are allowed at $25 per night, per pet; service dogs are permitted with paperwork.
  • No restaurant, pool, spa, or balcony is available on site.
  • Airport shuttle service is not provided.

Most popular facilities

at Motel Santa Cruz
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Laundry
TV
Check-in/ Check-out
Wheelchair access

Top Strategic Tips

  • 01

    Choose a newly renovated room for the best cleanliness and comfort, as room condition varies considerably by unit.

  • 02

    Book rooms next to each other by calling ahead if traveling as a group, to ensure adjacent placement.

  • 03

    Plan to arrive with a valid ID and a $100 cash deposit for a smoother check-in, especially for late arrivals.

  • 04

    Request a room away from Ocean Street if you are sensitive to noise, as road-facing rooms are consistently described as noisy.

Choose your room type

Motel Santa Cruz — double rooms, family rooms, and suites. Breakfast options and free cancellation available on selected rates
  • Two Double Beds Non-Smoking
    2 persons
    20 sq. feet
    2 Double beds
    Air conditioning
    Bathtub
  • King Room Non-Smoking
    2 persons
    20 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Air conditioning
    Bathtub
  • King Room Smoking
    2 persons
    20 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Air conditioning
    Bathtub
Show all rooms

Hotel Price Calendar

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

What's included at Motel Santa Cruz — facilities and services available during your stay

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Security
  • Currency exchange
  • Barber shop
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Services

  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Shops/Commercial services

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Bathroom

  • Washing machine

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At Motel Santa Cruz, dining goes beyond mere sustenance; it's an invitation to indulge in local flavors and culinary delights. The cozy Restaurant #1 provides a welcoming atmosphere where each meal is crafted with care, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
  • Restaurant #1

    Local Cuisine
    Ambiance
    A warm and inviting interior that embraces guests with rustic charm, making it an ideal spot for both casual gatherings and intimate dinners.
    Key Offerings
    Enjoy a selection of signature dishes that highlight the region's culinary heritage, paired with thoughtfully crafted beverages to complement each meal.
    Reservation
    Not needed.
    Hours vary.

Motel Santa Cruz Location

1015 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz, 95060
Explore Santa Cruz
Explore Santa Cruz
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
25 minutes walking
Iconic amusement park with rides, games, and beach access. Great for family fun and seasonal events.
Museum of Art and History
Museum of Art and History
17 minutes walking
Local art and history showcased in a vibrant setting. Free admission days and engaging exhibits are highlights.
Pacific Garden Mall
Pacific Garden Mall
17 minutes walking
Outdoor shopping area filled with unique shops and eateries. Perfect for a leisurely stroll and people watching.
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
5 minutes driving
Charming museum highlighting Santa Cruz's rich surfing history. Located in a historic lighthouse with stunning views.
Santa Cruz Harbor Kayaking
25 minutes walking
Enjoy kayaking in scenic waters, with rentals available. Great for all levels, ideal for thrill-seekers.
Tea House Spa
Tea House Spa
10 minutes walking
Relaxing spa offering massages and wellness treatments. An excellent choice for couples or solo relaxation.
San Lorenzo River Parkway Trestle Trail
17 minutes walking
Scenic hiking trail along the river. Perfect for all ages and fitness levels, featuring lovely views.
India Joze
11 minutes walking
Authentic Indian cuisine with a cozy atmosphere. Known for flavorful curries and vegetarian options.
Pizza My Heart
11 minutes walking
Casual pizza joint famous for unique slices. Fun vibe, great for families or quick meals; no reservations necessary.
Mission Hill Creamery
12 minutes walking
Artisan ice cream shop with local ingredients. Perfect for a sweet treat after exploring the area.
Cocoanut Grove Banquet and Conference Center
10 minutes walking
Host to various events and live performances. Great venue for all ages with a historic ambiance.
Abbott Square
Abbott Square
10 minutes walking
An outdoor gathering space featuring family-friendly events, art, and performances throughout the year.
Getting around
  • City Centre
    Santa Cruz 10 min  ·  2700 ft
  • Airports
    Mineta San Jose International (SJC) 80 min  ·  32.9 mi
    Monterey Peninsula (MRY) 101 min  ·  41.5 mi
  • Bus
    Bus stop 2 min  ·  400 ft
Book early and pay less
See available rates for your dates
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
Spanish, Hindi
Year renovated:
2012
Number of rooms:
60

Guest Reviews and Ratings

What guests said after staying at Motel Santa Cruz
Review score
Based on 242 verified reviews
5.6 /10
Guest rating
37 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
6.7/10
Comfort
6.6/10
Facilities
6.3/10
Free WiFi
8.9/10
Location
7.5/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.2/10
Staff
7.6/10
Value for money
6.3/10
Pros
Comfy beds
Good location
Friendly staff
Walking distance
Cons
Dirty rooms
Unclean floors
Smelly rooms
Stained towels
Guest reviews
based on 317 reviews
6.0/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
FAQs
About Motel Santa Cruz
What is the distance from Motel Santa Cruz to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk?
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is located 1 km from the hotel.
Which nearby restaurants are available from Motel Santa Cruz?
Nearby restaurants include Little Caesars (0.5 km), Golden Palace (0.5 km), The Buttery (0.5 km), and Solaire Restaurant + Bar (0.5 km).
What amenities are available in the rooms at Motel Santa Cruz?
Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, coffee/tea makers, and complimentary toiletries.
Does Motel Santa Cruz offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Motel Santa Cruz?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
Is parking available at Motel Santa Cruz?
Free on-site private parking is available for guests without the need for a reservation.
Are pets allowed at Motel Santa Cruz?
Pets are allowed with possible additional charges.
What services does Motel Santa Cruz offer for guests?
Services include 24-hour front desk assistance, laundry facilities, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby.
Is there a restaurant at Motel Santa Cruz?
The motel features an on-site restaurant for guests to enjoy meals.
How far is Motel Santa Cruz from the nearest airport?
The nearest airport is San Jose International Airport, located 55 km away.
What recreational activities can guests enjoy near Motel Santa Cruz?
Recreational activities nearby include surfing, kayaking, and sailing.
Are there any historical sites close to Motel Santa Cruz?
The Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park is located approximately 2 km from the hotel.

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