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Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

2.5 star property
Bayside motel in Santa Cruz with a seasonal outdoor pool

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

Seasonal outdoor pool
Property grounds
Exterior
Reception
Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds | Free WiFi, bed sheets

Reviews

7.2 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Pet friendly
  • Air conditioning
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View in a map
325 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
  • Place, Pacific Avenue
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Cruz Wharf
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪45 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds | Free WiFi, bed sheets

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(51 reviews)
  • 280 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed | Free WiFi, bed sheets

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

8.2 out of 10
Very good
(48 reviews)
  • 280 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Family Room

Family Room | Free WiFi, bed sheets

Family Room

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(8 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 6
  • 3 Queen Beds

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About the neighborhood

Santa Cruz

Located in Westside Santa Cruz within a short walk of Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz is within 2 miles (3 km) of other popular sights such as Monterey Bay. This 38-room motel welcomes guests with in-room amenities like refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers.
View more Motels in Santa CruzOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Pacific Avenue - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Main Beach - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Santa Cruz Main Beach - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Santa Cruz Wharf - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles

Getting around

  • Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC) - 43 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Las Palmas Taco Bar - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Ideal Bar & Grill - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Boardwalk Bowl - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪The Picnic Basket - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge - ‬7 min walk

About this property

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

Bayside motel in Santa Cruz with a seasonal outdoor pool
Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz features free WiFi in public areas, a seasonal outdoor pool, and express check-out. Limited parking is available. Helpful staff is there to provide front-desk service during limited hours, as well as offer insight about the area. Additional amenities include a terrace, a vending machine, and a garden.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 32-inch flat-screen TVs with cable channels. Bathrooms have hair dryers and free toiletries. Other amenities include refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers. Housekeeping is available on request.
Recreational amenities at the motel include a seasonal outdoor pool.

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Continental Inn
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  • Pet friendly
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7.8 out of 10, Good, 1,000 reviews
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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Offsite parking within 0.15 miles (USD 15 per day), from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
  • Street parking available
  • Limited onsite parking

Things to do

  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • On the bay
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk

More

  • 2 floors
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 32-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:30 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in fee: USD 25
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 6:30 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Renovations and closures

The following facilities are closed seasonally each year. They will be closed from September 22 to March 20:
  • Swimming pool

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours), lockbox

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 25 per pet, per night
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Deposit: USD 100 per accommodation, per stay

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • 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)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

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 smoke detector
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM—-6:30 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours, and checking out is easy with express services. Driving? This property offers limited parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A credit card for incidental charges and a government-issued photo ID may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • The minimum check-in age for Spring Break is 21 years old.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite safety features include a smoke detector.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • The seasonal pool is open from March 19 to September 13.
  • Nearby construction work may cause some noise disturbance.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.

Property is also known as

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz
Bay Front Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Bay Front Inn
Bay Front Hotel Santa Cruz
Bay Front Motel
Bay Front Inn
Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz Motel
Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz Santa Cruz
Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz Motel Santa Cruz

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz?

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz offers free cancellation on certain room rates. If you'd like to learn more, review the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz?

As of Dec 17, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz on Dec 18, 2025 start from $65.56, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What is there to do close to Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz?

This motel is situated in Westside Santa Cruz, just steps from Pacific Avenue and Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, and within a short walk of Santa Cruz Wharf. You'll also find Monterey Bay and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz?

Yes, though parking is limited.

Does Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz include a casino on the premises?

No, Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz?

No, this motel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool. The seasonal pool will be open from March 19 until September 13.

Is Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz a good place to stay for couples?

Amenities at this motel that appeal to couples include a seasonal outdoor pool and a terrace.

Are there hot tubs at Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this motel.

Does Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

No, Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz for a fee of USD 25 per pet, per night.

Does Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz have connecting rooms?

No, this motel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

What is the closest airport to Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz?

The closest major airport to Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz is Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal), which is 17.1 mi away (27 minutes by car). Another top airport is Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), which is around 27.5 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies at Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz.

Reviews

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz Reviews

7.2

Good

7.4/10

Cleanliness

7.6/10

Staff & service

6.6/10

Amenities

7.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.2/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 328 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 235 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 200 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 119 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 118 out of 1000 reviews

Reviews

6/10 Okay

Jacob

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
The biggest problem for my family was the chain-smoking of Tabacco and green outside. Facility was worn. No parking as stated. Homeless walked the sidewalk looking into guest cars.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I will definitely come back and stay here again once I visit Santa Cruz. Very quiet and safe area
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laurren

Liked: Cleanliness
Hotel is cute. Close to the beach. Walkable to many places. Easy to uber from. Parking is rough- not enough spots. I would park and walk. Close to boardwalk.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Sean

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The quailty was good
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tormar

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

abraham

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
i like this place i have stay here a couple times , the only problem is that i haven't got my security deposit back, and is been 10 days.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

Nina

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Boardwalk was walkable from here. One of the AC units in my room was not working so they moved us to a different room for the night only for them to keep switching us back and forth since we paid for 1 king not 2 queens. Such an inconvenience we had to walk all the way back from where we were at just to switch rooms before 3 and it was 2pm when they called. For the amount of rooms they have there is no parking on property yet still charge for the parking pass. There was a $100 deposit required on top of your hotel fee, which was not disclosed when booking online. Overall I think this place can do better.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

Jhon

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Lance

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
This is a small motel and parking is a premium. It is super close to the beach and boardwalk. There are plenty of places to eat thatnare within a couple of blocks away. It was less than 5 mins to the boardwalk. We would come back for sure
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maci

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Danielle

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved the two bedrooms and convenience to the boardwalk!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

David

Liked: Cleanliness
Very walkable location, but room needs a significant makeover. Keycard system is very flakey and parking is a pain.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

John

Liked: Cleanliness
Really clean and quiet
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fantastic comfortable bed and very close broadwalk, we be back again
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

Maria

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Bailey

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Large clean room, limited parking which was difficult
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

Nina

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Not enough parking at this hotel. We had to leave, then come back hoping for a parking space. Also online it said pets were allowed, but didn't say there was an extra $25 at checkin, so surprise! Very old place with thin windows. Can hear everything. Our window had a view of a solid retaining wall/fence. Not nice.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

mai

Traveled with group
Disliked: Staff & service

Bay Front Inn

I like the location. The room is clean. I dislike that there isn't enough parking space, Services are limited and thin walls.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Heidi

Traveled with family
Didn’t like how the keys never worked the noise at night and the place in general
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

David

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Jill

Disliked: Staff & service
The desk clerk could not answer a single question about restaurants, beach access, etc., and was unfriendly. The only info provided was that if I didn't remain in the handicap parking space I would lose it and may have to park on the street somewhere that could be blocks away. When I inquired about other things ie whale watching, there was an "I don't know" to every question. However, she did say she grew up in that city but has never been outside of it. The room was basic, clean enough, but needed some repair work in the bathroom. I will never stay there again.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

Megan

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service
The front desk is only open from 11-12am and 4-6pm. There’s no one in person to help you if you need it. There’s VERY limited parking and if it’s busy you’ll have to pay for parking on the street. I had someone else’s food left in my mini fridge in my room and hair all in the shower.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Helen

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Hotel staff was super kind very friendly was a convenient walk to the boardwalk!! Room smelled super clean!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Luie

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Checking in made easy; The staff was friendly ; room cleanliness was 4-out 5 parking can be challenging
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

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