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
Reception
Exterior
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, Santa Cruz Main Beach
    ‪5 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.)
    ‪43 min drive‬

Room options

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

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

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

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

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.

What's nearby

  • Pacific Avenue - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Santa Cruz Main Beach - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Santa Cruz Wharf - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Cowell's Beach - 6 min walk - 0.4 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

  • ‪Ideal Bar & Grill - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Las Palmas Taco Bar - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Boardwalk Bowl - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Namaste Bar & Grill - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Craft Beer at The Boardwalk - ‬10 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 picnic area, and a vending machine.
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.

Similar properties

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

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 Nov 1, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz on Nov 11, 2025 start from $82.29, 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 Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay within a short drive.

Is there parking available 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.

What do couples enjoy most about Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz?

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, this motel doesn't have a spa tub.

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.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz?

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

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz Reviews

Reviews

7.2

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 328 out of 1021 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 250 out of 1021 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 200 out of 1021 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 122 out of 1021 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 121 out of 1021 reviews

7.4/10

Cleanliness

7.6/10

Staff & service

6.6/10

Amenities

7.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.2/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Samantha

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Disliked: Staff & service

Not so great stay

Walking distance to the boardwalk. Exterior was cute. Parking was horrible. The additional street parking is a joke. Ended up parking having to park several blocks away on a not so well lit street. Check in was tedious. The front desk person seemed annoyed to be there with zero personality. The room was VERY small. If you open the bathroom door it hits the end of the bed. The satelite tv box wouldnt connect to the tv and we had to figure it out ourselves. There were stains on the wall, and bathroom smelled musty/moldy. Oh and the AC didnt work. Nearly $300 for one night. Not worth it.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Lena

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chantel

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Kris

Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

2/10 Terrible

Jennifer

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Rodney

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very comfortable and clean. Checked in a bit early with no charge.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

George

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

ISABELO NORMAN C

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Shandra

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

JANE

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
I liked that it was walking distance to everytime. But I didn't like the parking. If you don't get there early to get a space. You have to park on the street and pay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rya

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Cynthia

You are unable to reach this hotel by phone or fax. I tried for several days and the call is cut off and you can’t leave a message. I also tried faxing and the fax is off.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Angelica

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Front desk was nice and quick, parking is tough but they allowed us to park in front of the office.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Quick getaway
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marlon

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

michael

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Small but nice. Far enough from the beach to not get the noise, but not to far to walk.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julia

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything was good...nothing to complain about ...
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

humberto

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Paul

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Property was convenient and about half the price of surrounding properties. Parking was an issue but Parking is avaliable on the street at night.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

ISIAH

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
This property was great due to the location and the staff, room was subpar, but due to the price we paid it made sense. Id stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Sergio

Traveled with partner
Liked: Staff & service
Hotel overall is okay. Rooms are in decent condition. sheets and towels were clean and the rooms smelled clean. great location. downtown and boardwalk/pier are walkable. great deli across the street. staff was very pleasant and helpful with any inquiries. towels were way too small and parking is awful. they have “complimentary” parking but they have way more rooms than parking spots. otherwise you have to find metered parking on the street. you have to get lucky to get a spot in the parking lot.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Juan

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
It was overall not bad, but small parking area and had to keep getting my room card programmed.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

4/10 Poor

Verified traveler

Disliked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Water pressure was non existent. The tv we couldnt get it to work.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Good basic hotel

Comfortable bed. Good, basic hotel. Excellent location.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025