| check-in time: 3:00 pmcheck-out time: 11:00 am. 7 miles south of the santa cruz beach boardwalk is an 8-minute drive from the cabrillo highway and 15 from sunset state beach. this budget hotel 18. standard rooms feature microwaves, fridges, cable tvs, hairdryers, coffeemakers and free wifi. amenities include a free breakfast of pastries and fruit, plus free parking. family suites and rooms with whirlpool tubs are also available
San Francisco International Airport 1 hr 17
Mt Madonna County Park (21 min)
County park marked by redwood forest & chaparral over 3,688 acres, with horseback riding & camping. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park (29 min)
Hiking, biking & jogging trails on varied terrain rising from sea level to steep coastal mountains. Seacliff State Beach (16 min)
Versatile state beach offers a variety of outdoor activities such as camping & hiking. Sunset State Beach (16 min)
Beach surrounded by steep sand dunes offering picnic areas & campsites, plus bay & mountain views. Capitola Beach (19 min)
Popular beach located in Capitola Village features gentle surf, swimming & volleyball & shops. Moss Landing State Beach (13 min)
Beach, sea otter, and otters New Brighton State Beach (18 min)
This strip of beach features pine & oak trees, bay views & a small campground on a bluff. Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve (18 min)
Tidal salt marsh that is home to birds, otters, seals & many other animals, with boardwalk trails. Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park (29 min)
Rides & attractions plus gardens draw crowds at this bustling, family-friendly amusement park. Manresa Main State Beach (12 min)
Sandy stretch with unpredictable weather that's popular for surf fishing, surfing & sunsets. Elkhorn Slough (17 min)
Tidal estuary sheltering otters, seals & migratory birds, with kayaking & boat tours. Zmudowski State Beach (21 min)
Beach and park New Brighton State Beach (17 min)
Laid-back site with expansive bay views & a campground on a wooded bluff above the sand. Blue Ocean Whale Watching on the Monterey Bay (15 min)
Whale watching, dolphin, humpback whale, blue whale, and killer whale Mount Madonna (24 min) | 
