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Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

California Coast - CA · United States

325 Pacific AveView location

7.4/10Very good1,003 Reviews
Cleanliness7.6/107.6
Service7.8/107.8
Comfort7.8/107.8
Condition7.0/107.0
Amenities6.8/106.8
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Room prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.

About Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

Take advantage of recreation opportunities such as a seasonal outdoor pool or take in the view from a terrace and a garden. Additional features at this motel include complimentary wireless internet access, a picnic area, and a vending machine. Featured amenities include express check-out and a vending machine.

Limited parking is available onsite. Make yourself at home in one of the 38 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and microwaves. Flat-screen televisions with cable programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.

Conveniences include coffee/tea makers, and housekeeping is provided on request. Distances are displayed to the nearest 0. 1 mile and kilometer. Pacific Avenue - 0. 1 km / 0. 1 mi- Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0. 3 km / 0.

2 mi- Santa Cruz Wharf - 0. 4 km / 0. 3 mi- Cowell's Beach - 0. 5 km / 0. 3 mi- Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.

Read more about this hotelShow less

With a stay at Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz (Westside Santa Cruz), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay. This motel is 5.1 mi (8.1 km) from Capitola Beach and 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Pacific Avenue.

Make yourself at home in one of the 38 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and microwaves. 32-inch flat-screen televisions with cable programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include coffee/tea makers, and housekeeping is provided on request.

Featured amenities include express check-out and a vending machine. Limited parking is available onsite.

Popular amenities

Swimming Pool
Free WiFi
Parking available
Concierge
Entertainment
Non-smoking
Accessible facilities

Check-in and check-out

Check-in from 3:00 PM
Check-in until 6:30 PM
Check-out until 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age 18

Hotel policies

Beach nearby On bay No cribs (infant beds) available No elevators Professional property host/manager Pets allowed Service animals are allowed Service animals are exempt from fees/restrictions

Cleaning and safety

Sanitization
Contactless check-out is available Cashless transactions are available
Essential Travel
Essential workers only - NO

Important information

  • Property Alerts

    You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:

    • Deposit: USD 100 per accommodation, per stay

    We have included all charges provided to us by the property.

  • You need to know
    • The seasonal pool will be open from March 19 to September 13.
    • Construction is underway at a neighboring building and there may be noise disturbance from the construction work.
    • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.
    • Contactless check-out is available.
  • Special Instructions
    The front desk is open daily from 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM. If you are planning to arrive after 6:30 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
  • Instructions
    • Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
    • Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
    • Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
    • Minimum Spring Break check-in age is 21 years old
    • This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
    • Cashless transactions are available
    • Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector
  • Minimal age
    18
  • Optional fees
    • Offsite parking fee: USD 15 per day (0.15 mi away; open 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM)
    • Pet fee: USD 25 per pet, per night
    • Service animals are exempt from fees
    • Early check-in fee: USD 25 (subject to availability)
    • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)

    The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

  • Spoken Language

    English

    Spanish

Nearby attractions

Pacific Avenue 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center 0.3 km / 0.2 mi
Santa Cruz Wharf 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Cowell's Beach 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Santa Cruz Main Beach 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Boardwalk Bowl 0.7 km / 0.4 mi
Cocoanut Grove 0.8 km / 0.5 mi
Mimi De Marta Dog Park 0.8 km / 0.5 mi
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 0.9 km / 0.6 mi
Sky Glider 1 km / 0.6 mi
Ocean Street 1.2 km / 0.7 mi
Monterey Bay 1.2 km / 0.8 mi
Williams-Reynolds House 1.2 km / 0.8 mi
Neary Lagoon Park 1.3 km / 0.8 mi
Town Clock 1.4 km / 0.9 mi

Hotel facilities & services

Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.

  • Total number of rooms: 38
  • hotel
  • Wheelchair-accessible
  • Car park
  • 24-hour reception
  • Check-in hour
  • Check-out hour
  • Wi-fi
  • Bicycle hire serviceExtra charge
  • Lift accessExtra charge
  • Garden
  • Terrace
Show 8 more facilities & services
  • Restaurant
  • Smoking areaExtra charge
  • Business centre
  • Outdoor freshwater pool
  • TV lounge
  • Picnic
  • Non-smoking establishment
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Meal plans

Meal plan types

Meal options depend on the room and rate you choose. Search your dates to see which meal plans are included.

BB

Bed & Breakfast

BED AND BREAKFAST

Breakfast is included with your stay.

RO

Room Only

Accommodation only. Meals are usually not included.

Upon availability

Room types

These are the hotel's room types, rather than live offers. Choose your travel dates to see available rooms, prices and booking conditions. Check availability

  • DOUBLE TWO QUEEN BEDSDOUBLE • TWO QUEEN BEDSDBL.2Q

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

    DOUBLE TWO QUEEN BEDS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    TWO QUEEN BEDS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.2Q

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • FAMILY ROOM THREE BEDSFAMILY ROOM • THREE BEDSFAM.3B

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

    FAMILY ROOM THREE BEDS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    FAMILY ROOM
    View / characteristic
    THREE BEDS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: FAM.3B

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • FAMILY ROOM STANDARDFAMILY ROOM • STANDARDFAM.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

    FAMILY ROOM STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    FAMILY ROOM
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: FAM.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE KING SIZE BEDDOUBLE • KING SIZE BEDDBL.KG

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

    DOUBLE KING SIZE BED

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    KING SIZE BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.KG

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • QUADRUPLE TWO QUEEN BEDSQUADRUPLE • TWO QUEEN BEDSQUA.2Q

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

    QUADRUPLE TWO QUEEN BEDS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    QUADRUPLE
    View / characteristic
    TWO QUEEN BEDS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: QUA.2Q

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • STUDIO SUPERIORSTUDIO • SUPERIORSTU.SU

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

    STUDIO SUPERIOR

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–5 • Adults: max. 5 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    STUDIO
    View / characteristic
    SUPERIOR

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: STU.SU

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

Guest reviews

What other guests saying about Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

7.4
Very good
1,003 Reviews
Cleanliness
7.6 /10
Service
7.8 /10
Comfort
7.8 /10
Condition
7.0 /10
Amenities
6.8 /10
100 reviews shown
4/10
Poor
26 Jul 2026
Jose
A laminated card on the night stand tells you that all housekeeping requests need to be submitted by 1pm. Check-in, however begins at 3pm.

The doorknob was broken and the deadbolt couldn’t actuate at all. The keycards come with a warning to keep them away from, “wallets, cards, magnets, keys, or cash” lest it lose the magnetism needed to work, And that did happen despite my pocket being completely empty save for the keycard and it’s sleeve. Fortunately, there was a late check in and I was able to get a replacement card.

The room itself had a moldy smell. Mattresses and pillows need to be retired along with the worn sheets. The fridge was large and worked, but had a smell much like the room. Television barely worked; they really should call dish and have their satellite equipment recalibrated and replaced.

I get this is an old probably family-owned small business motel property and probably no worse than the other motels in the area save for the resorts. Still, these lodgings are rough and amenities practically nonexistent. I saw lots of comments that this place is great for pets. That might be the target clientele.
6/10
Pleasant
25 Jul 2026
Sabrina
Will not stay here again for the fact that parking is awful!! The first night there wasn’t enough parking and we had to park down the street. I don’t like not having my car close by. The room I felt was not maintained. The towel rack was about to fall off the wall. There was a plug on the wall that was at eye level which was strange and it looked like it was going to fall off the wall as well. The TV wasn’t plugged in when we arrived and it took awhile to get it to work. The pool looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in awhile. Kids would not go in it. Super small rooms. Pictures are deceiving. The bed was comfortable and the boardwalk is walking distance. About 10 mins. That was about all that was good with the place.
8/10
Excellent
24 Jul 2026
Don
Our family rm was nice and Ava the office person was very nice and accommodating. The only issue is parking on property but we've stayed before. We walk to boardwalk and take Uber if we want to go eat somewhere.
10/10
Exceptional
21 Jul 2026
Daniel
All around amazing next to great food and not even 10 minutes from the beach
4/10
Poor
21 Jul 2026
Heidi
Property is very centrally located and most everything is walkable. This is fine if you’re not spending any time in your room. Bring your own pillow because all six pillows were terrible and disintegrating.
Also, the charge from the hotel is more than what was agreed with Orbitz and the property also charged me an additional $100, which I’m disputing.
Partner
2/10
Poor
19 Jul 2026
Alejandra
Terrible service. Check in was at 3 pm they had us waiting outside to almost 3:30.
2/10
Poor
19 Jul 2026
Roberto
Only convinced was the closeness to the beach.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
18 Jul 2026
Lucia
This room was just ok. We stayed in the family room, loved that it was big and had enough space for everyone to sleep comfortably. Location is great too. Walking distance to the boardwalk, restaurants, and beach. The worst thing was the cleaning staff dragging their carts around, shouting at each other while they cleaned, and dragging trash cans up and down the stairs…all at 7:00 in the morning!! So loud! Their quiet time is 9 to 9, they def didn’t respect that rule!
Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
18 Jul 2026
luz
Check-in was fast and easy. Our stay was comfortable. We would probably book here again.
Family_with_children
6/10
Pleasant
18 Jul 2026
Gauche
Good walking distance to the wharf and boardwalk. Property was clean, bed was ok, and bathroom is small. Parking is limited so get there early. Not a 24 hours front desk, it only opens to check out from 10-11am and check in from 3-7pm.
Family_with_children
6/10
Pleasant
17 Jul 2026
Susan
The rooms were clean but pretty small.
Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
14 Jul 2026
Susan
Okay for a night stay, walking distance to the boardwalk, Not bay front though.
Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
14 Jul 2026
Deborah
The room was fairly clean. The bed was not comfortable. There was a little noisy. The office was closed from early afternoon to 3 pm which was inconvenient. The staff was nice.
The hotel is located in a place where it’s easy to walk right down to the boardwalk and downtown so it’s in a great area
Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
13 Jul 2026
Judy
Close to the boardwalk and beach
Pet
10/10
Exceptional
09 Jul 2026
Jorge
Great location and with a short walk to the boardwalk and pier. Our room was great since it could accommodate 6 people with 3 beds.
Family_with_children
6/10
Pleasant
08 Jul 2026
Lyda
Best part was it was quiet after
10pm. Towels were thread bare. Place was clean.horrible smell from drain in shower and sink. Front desk acted surprise!
10/10
Exceptional
08 Jul 2026
Kenneth
Great place to stay.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
08 Jul 2026
Morten
OK hotel, but in dire need of major updates, it just worn down with dings and paint issues, sink worn out etc. Great location but they need to update this whole property.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
08 Jul 2026
Victoria
Everything was nice except the T.V. remote didn't work and the microwave kept blowing the breaker when we used it. Other than that, it was very pleasant,
2/10
Poor
07 Jul 2026
Josie
We stayed in a room with 2 queen beds. The bed we slept on was horrible, it was so loud every move you make. It sounded like it was going to Crack in half. It was extremely uncomfortable could not sleep. The bathroom had a broken pipe smell that filled the room. The t.v was glitching every few seconds so it was hard to watch t.v. I came to my car at 9am there was a shattered alcohol bottle on the ground near my vehicle.
Family_with_children
4/10
Poor
06 Jul 2026
Deborah
There is no parking on premises unless you get very lucky. So you park in a public lot that’s a short walk and then have to move your car to free metered street parking closer by after 8 pm. Pretty inconvenient. Also someone went through the property in the middle of the night screaming and cussing, it didn’t seem like they were a guest just a random dude. It is a little shady around the property and it has dark hallways in between outside facing rooms. Doesn’t seem very safe.
Family
2/10
Poor
06 Jul 2026
jennifer
I woke up so itchy from the bed. I didn’t use the shower because the towels were still moist as if they weren’t dried all the way. I’m not sure why they felt damp but they were definitely not clean. I was going to dry my hands and saw a long black course hair…all the towels looked dingy..so I did not shower there. It grossed me out so I didn’t even go under the covers and used my jacket over me to sleep. The problem with that is my neck still touched the pillows and I woke up with a ton of itchy bumps on my neck. Never again! Yuck! Oh and good luck with parking because you might end up having to look for street parking as there’s not enough spots to accommodate rooms.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
05 Jul 2026
Clara
Great location and room was spacious
Family_with_children
6/10
Pleasant
05 Jul 2026
Dickson
Conveniently located pet friendly motel. Pretty expensive given the low end fit and finish but that’s probably the market rate
Pet
10/10
Exceptional
05 Jul 2026
Elizabeth
Everything was perfect only thing was finding parking but they were able to find somewhere to park our cars
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
02 Jul 2026
Paul
I always stay here in Santa Cruz. You can't beat the value.
Self
8/10
Excellent
02 Jul 2026
Janette
Loved the staff and the location!! We walked everywhere and the staff was so friendly and helpful!
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
02 Jul 2026
Alyson
Rooms were clean. There was some construction issues with the floors, big chunks of lvp damaged or missing. Shower head was a little faulty. Room smelled like marijuana/dispensary.
Friends_and_family Family
4/10
Poor
02 Jul 2026
Julianna
This was unfortunately one of the less enjoyable motels I've stayed at. The only two positives I can honestly mention are the location, which is conveniently close to the beach, and the beds—they were very comfortable.

The biggest issue was the bathroom, especially the shower. The drain cover was not secured, creating a serious safety hazard. It constantly moved around while I was showering, and I nearly cut my feet multiple times. To make matters worse, when I got out of the shower, the old, flimsy shower curtain rod suddenly fell and hit me in the head because it would not stay secured.

The room also appeared to lack deep cleaning. There were numerous marks on the walls, giving the impression that the room hadn't been thoroughly cleaned in quite some time.

Customer service was equally disappointing. Around 10:00 a.m., my room key unexpectedly deactivated. When I went to the front desk, I was told the scheduled employee had not shown up for work. Instead of verifying my identity, someone simply let me into the room, which raised concerns about guest security.

At checkout (11:30)I wanted to report the maintenance and safety issues, but still there was no one at the front desk. I also needed a receipt, so I tried calling a few days later, but no one ever answered the phone. Eventually, I received a text message instead. On top of everything else, it took more than two weeks for my security deposit to be released.

Overall, rooms are not worth paying more than $60 a night.
Partner
4/10
Poor
29 Jun 2026
Rick
Not enough parking so you have to pay to park or get a ticket.
Self
2/10
Poor
29 Jun 2026
Roxanne
Property is dirty and poorly maintained. Ceiling in bathroom was molded. Door lock and handle were faulty - major safety hazard. Signs all over the property claim that is smoke-free, but that is a lie. Walking into lobby you get the stench of cigarettes - avoid if you have asthma - definitely a health hazard. The person at the front desk was not welcoming nor cleanly in appearance.
The pool is not properly cleaned and looked very scummy - didn't feel safe to use. We booked a family room which had 3 beds, nice space wise but room was very dirty and smelly. Our room was at the end of the row near the employee only area - all the staff used that area to smoke weed, which we didn't appreciate smelling especially with it being a family trip. Beds were horribly uncomfortable. Boards in the floor were loose and coming up. The TV didn't work properly and kept bringing up pay-per-view adult films when wanting to turn the volume up. The door to the bedroom didn't close properly. Staff ignored our DO NOT DISTURB signed and entered the room unwanted and then continued to keep knocking - it wasn't even near check-out time. Worst place I have ever stayed - not family friendly - overpriced - do not waste your money.
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
29 Jun 2026
Brian
I was actually pleasantly surprised. The room was nice!! Only thing is parking is first come first serve or you have to go park on the street which is meter parking . The street meters runs 7 days a week 8am to 8pm. Bring quarters and they are not digital and do not accept card or app payments. The staff is very friendly. I like the place and has character.
I will stay here again.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
27 Jun 2026
Rosa
Very comfy bed and very nice and chill staff. Over all a 4/5. Would come to this hotel again!! And it is very close to the wharf and boardwalk.
Family
2/10
Poor
27 Jun 2026
Angel
i’d recommend a different hotel for the price your paying .
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
27 Jun 2026
Vanessa
The room was clean and the beds are very comfortable. The front desk people were amazing and very helpful.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
26 Jun 2026
Jessica
It was a pleasant stay. Room was clean. Staff was excellent. Close to boardwalk.
Friends_and_family Friends
8/10
Excellent
26 Jun 2026
MARY
Have stayed here multiple times. Excellent location. Great place to stay if you are just interested in spending more time out doing things. Does have a pool, but it is a pretty basic hotel which is fine because I really didn't need any \"extras\". Stay there and save your money to spend on yourself being out having fun! Will be back again soon!
Friends
8/10
Excellent
26 Jun 2026
Bryce
Comfortable beds.
Family_with_children
2/10
Poor
23 Jun 2026
Jose
I reserved a room with 2 bed and when I got there they gave me a room with a single bed the staff was help full
Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
22 Jun 2026
Denise
Very Pet Friendly. Great Location.
Pet
6/10
Pleasant
21 Jun 2026
Jodi
The three stars is entirely based on location. The value in this hotel is proximity to everything in Santa Cruz. This hotel
has so much potential but they are not investing enough in maintenance. Everything is the room was really worn. The bed wasn’t bad but the towels were cheap, coffee maker old and the room had been cleaned but it smelled like dirty mop water. They need to change the cleaning solutions they use. If you value room maintenance and cleanliness above all this might not be the place for you. If you want affordability within easy walking distance then this is a valid option. Oh and good lucking with available hotel parking. Get there early if you want a parking spot otherwise be prepared to pay.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
21 Jun 2026
Madeline
This place is lovely! The staff was very accommodating and the room had everything we needed for an overnight stay. Beds are super comfy and there was plenty of parking. You can walk to food or the beach or stay by the pool, would definitely stay again
Friends_and_family Family
4/10
Poor
20 Jun 2026
Crystal
Check in was awful. Stood in line for 40 min with a line out the door. One person doing check in only.

Bathroom smelt like sewage! AC was loud and banging. Only thing we liked was the short walk to the pier and the coffee shop across the street.
Friends_and_family Family
6/10
Pleasant
20 Jun 2026
Raymundo
Rooms were tight. Drain in shower smelled backed up. No lobby attendant until 3 pm so no assistance until then if you have any issues. The highlight of this Hotel is the location. Parking lot is small you may end up parking in the street. Only 3 blocks away from the boardwalk and the beach.
Friends_and_family Family
4/10
Poor
18 Jun 2026
Carol
Office was locked til 3:00. Then everyone got in line to check in. Took 1 hour to get through
Pool was dirty. Couldn’t use
Room was very small but bed was comfortable and clean. Sink and shower were extremely small. Shower curtain ripped
Parking lot was first come first served. Not enough spots for all guests
Good thing we were only staying for one night
Family
10/10
Exceptional
15 Jun 2026
Jocelyn
Excellent staff!! Very nice and pleasant!! Helpful and knowledgeable and answered questions well.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
13 Jun 2026
BRETT
Over all GREAT location. Super close to pretty much everything. If you need a place to sleep/ park Shower and hold your cold breverages this is it. Your a 4 mins walk to the boardwalk and 4- 6 min walk to in town breakfast spots. For the price you can beat it if your not looking to spend your vacation in your room lol. Who is? Very strick on 3 pm check in. So get there at 2:55 and park and wait at the door! Enjoy!
Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
12 Jun 2026
Nicole
nice and clean. close to the ocean. m
Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
12 Jun 2026
Brady
Nice size room easy parking great location
10/10
Exceptional
11 Jun 2026
Sean
Its close to everything. I love their family suite above the office
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
10 Jun 2026
Ryan
Very pet friendly!
Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
10 Jun 2026
Tina
I like the hotel and the room was clean. The hotel was close to the beach and everything! I don't mind staying there again. It was perfect!
Friends
2/10
Poor
09 Jun 2026
Grace
We were very disappointed!The towels are old & toilet doesn’t flush.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
07 Jun 2026
Esperanza
Está limpio, solo que ya está algo viejo, ya sus instalaciones están deterioradas! La atención al cliente fue buena, pero tiene muchos detalles todavía
Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
07 Jun 2026
Alma
Nice. Clean. In and out. Parking was a little tight though.
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
06 Jun 2026
Eric
It was cleaner than I expected for an older Motel. The desk Manager was excellent and very accommodating. I would stay here again when visiting Santa Cruz.
Family
4/10
Poor
06 Jun 2026
David
The parking was poor, we checked in at 4:30 pm and the parking lot was full already. The front desk said there was a paid parking lot around the corner but now our car would be out of our sight and we would have to pay more. When we got to our room, the floor didn’t feel clean and there were hairs still stuck in the towels and in the shower drain. The property did not feel maintained, you had to lift up on the door handle to get in versus the typical pull down. We witnessed other guests having trouble getting inside their rooms. We only stayed 1 night, the morning shift front desk was helpful when we were checking out. They recommended some breakfast places when we asked for their insight. Another positive about this property was the close proximity to the Santa Cruz boardwalk.
Overall, we would not come back to stay here.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
04 Jun 2026
Doreena
It's good for a night stay but there is holes and stains on walls and bathroom was not the best maintenanced. Also I notice if they see I booked via Expedia and not directly we don't get a good room.
Family_with_children
6/10
Pleasant
03 Jun 2026
Graciela
Room was used for it’s purpose… to sleep… and shower… shower was too small
Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
02 Jun 2026
priscilla
Staff was so helpful and welcoming. Not currently doing early check in but they allow free parking the day off, if you arrive early. An easy 5 minute walk to the beach. Room was clean and came with all amenities besides an iron. Plenty of restaurants within a 15 minute walk or a 5 minute drive. AC worked amazing. Will be returning.
Family
2/10
Poor
01 Jun 2026
Thomas
Run down, office did not open until 3 pm, very late after a long trip
6/10
Pleasant
31 May 2026
Jaime
Friendly staff, however the room was below our standards. The first room was very outdated and poorly kept, but we were able to get into a more updated and cleaner room. My understanding is that the king rooms are more newly renovated.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
30 May 2026
Matilda
Nice quite and clean rooms
10/10
Exceptional
30 May 2026
joleen
Check in starts precisely at 3, the door to the lobby is locked until then. No bathroom in lobby. Sheets were nice and clean and smelled like bleach.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
28 May 2026
Jennifer
A great spot to book, in walking distance to the pier and beach. We ate at an Italian restaurant Iveta and it was so good, pretty well right next to the hotel. Across the street is a coffee shop and we grabbed food in the morning. The room is spacious and clean. For the price you can’t go wrong!!
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
27 May 2026
Minerva
I was disappointed that we had no parking it was first come first served. It was clean but they need to clean behind furniture.
8/10
Excellent
25 May 2026
Nicole
The staff is really awesome, they made it a great stay on a busy holiday weekend. Location is a walkable trip to the boardwalk but if you have little ones who tire, bring a wagon. Thank you!
Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
25 May 2026
Carl
good location and clean
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
23 May 2026
Crystal
Was worried that my room was going to be canceled due to a late arrival but they had the keys in a lock box for me to get when I arrived.

Comfortable bed.
Pet
6/10
Pleasant
23 May 2026
Karianne
Room was fine but no ac in bedroom and the window frame was covered in spider webs so couldn't open it.
Found a roach in the bathroom.
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
21 May 2026
Jason
Close to the board walk and pier. Good price.
Self
6/10
Pleasant
14 May 2026
Frank
The room was adequate but would not stay there again. It’s impossible to reach the property by phone as its an automated system. We had to check out a day early and there was nobody working the front desk in the morning. Hotels .com could never reach anyone by phone to have our last night taken off like the motel said they would.
4/10
Poor
11 May 2026
Yusei
The staff were friendly and helpful, and parking was easy for me during my stay. If the lot gets full, there is paid street parking nearby. The location is also great and very close to the beach, which was super convenient.

The main downside was that the walls were pretty thin, and there was a generator outside that made noise throughout the night, which made it hard to sleep at times. Overall, decent stay for the location and convenience, but light sleepers may want to keep the noise in mind.
10/10
Exceptional
10 May 2026
Lacy
Great little place within walking distance of the Boardwalk and food places. Really an ideal location if you have Littles! Downside - the pool was out of order while we were there. Otherwise budget, friendly, and simple.
Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
10 May 2026
Janeth
Front desk office always locked and he’s to get ahold of any one.
Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
09 May 2026
Amanda
Toilet seat was very loose. Coffee wasn’t very good. Staff was nice and the room is conveniently located. I would stay here again.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
08 May 2026
Julie
Our stay was horrible!!! Reading reviews prior to our stay we knew it wouldn’t be anything fancy and that was okay but never felt would be as awful as it was. Bed sheets/towels were clean at least but rest was dirty. Bathroom lights only two out of three with covers, no place to hang towel that you could reach when getting out of shower. But the very worst part is our vehicle blocked so had to walk or pay for ride to get anywhere. There were people parking where not designated parking spot. Those parking there were told by office they could park there.l Lastly bad enough that room was lit up all night like day time even with a single black out curtain that barely covered the window with broken window molding adding to lack of sleep do to out of control loud noise level from others on property into the early hours of the next days.None of this was able to be handled due to limited office hours and for fear of retaliation, if we spoke to those causing the issues. When we did speak to someone who blocked in our car, they got really upset with us and told us that management told them they could park there..

Partner
8/10
Excellent
07 May 2026
Lisa
The staff was super friendly and helpful. The rooms were nice enough, if a little dated. The parking was first come first serve so get there early if you want a space.
Family
10/10
Exceptional
06 May 2026
Gisele
THE PROPERTY WAS VERY PET FRIENDLY. VERY PROFESSIONAL AND WELCOMING. WILL RETURN BECAUSE OF THE COMFORT
Pet
10/10
Exceptional
05 May 2026
Melissa
The room was nice and clean, we love that it’s pet friendly. Very quiet, convenient spot. We’ve stayed here many times and will many more
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
05 May 2026
Stephen
Front lobby was locked until 3pm with no chance of early check in. People standing out front obviously upset about no access to lobby until 3:00.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
05 May 2026
Lelia
Room was nice, clean & comfy beds, but squeaky. Which was funny. Good walking distance to everything.
I wasn’t happy with the parking, one space per room. But. Who monitors this? My friend parked in the lot while I parked on the street at a meter, extra fee or you can find a local lot, also would be an extra fee.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
03 May 2026
Christian
Air conditioning
Partner
8/10
Excellent
03 May 2026
Rebecca
Parking is extremely limited. The TV didnt work so the office fixed it. The coffee pot didnt work so they gave me another.
4/10
Poor
03 May 2026
Ja-Mont
There was not enough Parking. Bathrooms was not clean also really small. Had a smell to it . In the shower was missing tiles
Partner
8/10
Excellent
02 May 2026
Rosa
Muy bien
Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
29 Apr 2026
Bertha
I didn’t like the shower floor, it was too rough
Family
2/10
Poor
29 Apr 2026
ruby
I stood here a couple of times but the last visit. The manager kicked me out for no reason.Whatsoever, they locked me out of my room and i had sleep in my car and when I had a check out , I spoke with the girl at the front desk and they apologized , but the manager had an issue with me being there for no reason at all
2/10
Poor
27 Apr 2026
Rebecca
Just stay away from it
Family
10/10
Exceptional
22 Apr 2026
stephanie
Excellent location, walking distance to the boardwalk and free parking.
10/10
Exceptional
19 Apr 2026
Christian
Wasn't expecting much but was still very impressed. Awesome location, everything was clean, and the vibes were very chill Couldn't ask for much other than that.
Partner
4/10
Poor
19 Apr 2026
Angela
Very pet friendly. Heater and A/C worked. Rooms were not very good. Gap in between door and doorframe. The people next door had to slam their door so it would shut properly which was annoying in the middle of the night. Very thin walls. No sitting area in the room. Parking was very limited. Staff was friendly.
Pet
10/10
Exceptional
17 Apr 2026
Cristina
Great spot for my family and our fur baby. We love the boardwalk and the hotel was perfect for our family vacay.
Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
16 Apr 2026
joseph
Great place to stay for my son and I. Thanks
4/10
Poor
15 Apr 2026
Ian
This place needs to be completely renovated
6/10
Pleasant
12 Apr 2026
Rachel
Location is great for walkability-- less than 10 minutes to either the beach or to downtown. Room was very bare-bones and cleanliness was lacking. We wore socks in the room, as laminate flooring felt like it had a film on it. Two bath towels had long hair strands on them, another had a dirt mark. We appreciated the mini fridge, microwave, and updated bathroom finishes, but wish the bathroom vanity was better maintained (dusty in corners & crevices). Simple additions that would improve the stay would be a chair in the room and an additional mirror outside of the bathroom space. We forgot our home pillows-- these were about the size of a throw pillow. But again, the location was good!
Family
2/10
Poor
12 Apr 2026
Matt
I would say that the clerk taking us in when we checked in, was very lackadaisical, nonchalant, and did not offer any kind of explanation about anything. I would say that the walls are very thin and the refrigerator was loud and it’s running. There was exposed piping for the sink and the flooring was uneven so I cut my foot. We ended up leaving early because the bed had bugs in it. I asked the front desk to rectify the situation and it just felt like they were less than accommodating so we ended up leaving an entire day early. The staff was unprofessional. I asked to see if we can get a refund on our stay and they said probably not but didn’t offer any other information. I would never stay here again.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
11 Apr 2026
Alejandro
The location is definitely a strong point, very close to the beach, which makes it very convenient.

We knew this was not a five-star hotel, so our expectations were aligned with that. Overall, the stay was acceptable.

That said, there are several small maintenance issues that, if addressed, could significantly improve the guest experience. For example, a worn-out door lock, a dripping shower, and curtains that don’t fully close.

Nothing major, but these details do impact the overall impression.
Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
11 Apr 2026
Leonard
Clean room no frills, quiet; great location,bang for buck
Self
4/10
Poor
10 Apr 2026
Lawrence
The price was good but when my wife and I got to our room the first thing she noticed was clumps of hair on the floor of the bathroom and it the sewage odor coming from somewhere also. I only noticed the remote for the tv was sticky but other than those three things it wasn’t the worst I’ve ever seen, I’d give this property another chance
Pet

Location & surroundings

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz
325 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, United States

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Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

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