Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz

2.0 star property
Motel with free breakfast, a short walk to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

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Photo gallery for Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Business Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Ocean View | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Exterior
Lobby
Business Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Ocean View | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Property amenity

Reviews

7.2 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Hot Tub
  • Parking available
  • Laundry
  • Air conditioning
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View in a map
130 W Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
  • Place, Santa Cruz Wharf
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Cruz Main Beach
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪48 min drive‬

Room options

Room, 2 Double Beds, Non Smoking (2nd Floor)

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(11 reviews)
  • 355 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking (2nd Floor)

  • 355 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Business Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Ocean View

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(6 reviews)
  • 350 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Business Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Ocean View

7.0 out of 10
Good
(2 reviews)
  • 350 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Business Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking, Partial Ocean View

7.0 out of 10
Good
(6 reviews)
  • Partial ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Business Room, Multiple Beds, Non Smoking, Ocean View (Partial)

7.8 out of 10
Good
(6 reviews)
  • Partial ocean view
  • Sleeps 6
  • 3 Double Beds

Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking (Mobility, Roll-In Shower)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Ocean View

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 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, Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz is within a mile (2 km) of other popular sights such as Monterey Bay. This 27-room motel welcomes guests with free breakfast and conveniences like free in-room WiFi and a hot tub.

What's nearby

  • Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Santa Cruz Wharf - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Santa Cruz Main Beach - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Cowell's Beach - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Ideal Bar & Grill - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Las Palmas Taco Bar - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Cruzin’ Crepes - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Boardwalk Bowl - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Namaste Bar & Grill - ‬6 min walk

About this property

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Motel with free breakfast, a short walk to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Guests of Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz enjoy free WiFi in public areas, a hot tub, and a business center. Self parking is available for USD 20 per day. Dry cleaning/laundry services make packing light an option. Additional amenities include a computer station, laundry facilities, and a vending machine.
Guests can expect free WiFi and flat-screen TVs with digital channels. Bathrooms have hair dryers and free toiletries. Other standard amenities include refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers. Housekeeping is available once per stay.
Recreational amenities at the motel include a hot tub.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi and wired internet

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking available only on request
  • Self parking on site (USD 20 per day)
  • Limited onsite parking (max 1 space per unit)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast available daily 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM

Things to do

  • Hot tub

Family friendly

  • Grocery/convenience store
  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities

Conveniences

  • Grocery/convenience store
  • Laundry facilities
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (once per stay)

Business services

  • Business center
  • Computer station

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk

More

  • 2 floors
  • 4 buildings
  • Banquet hall
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV with premium digital channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Iron/ironing board

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 11:00 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in fee: USD 45
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Late check-out subject to availability
Late check-out fee: USD 50.00

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open Monday - Sunday (8:00 AM - 11:00 PM)
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

  • Self parking fee: USD 20 per day
  • Early check-in fee: USD 45 (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out fee: USD 50.00 (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, debit card, or cash deposit 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
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of Count on Us (Wyndham)
Masks are required at the property for guests without COVID-19 vaccination
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
Driving? This property offers parking (fees apply).

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.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as 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.
  • Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Masks are required in public areas for unvaccinated guests.
  • This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of Count on Us (Wyndham).

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Howard Johnson Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Motel
Howard Johnson Santa Cruz
Howard Johnson Inn Fisherman`s Wharf Santa Cruz Hotel Santa Cruz
Howard Johnson Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Motel
Howard Johnson Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Howard Johnson Boardwalk
Howard Johnson Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Howard Johnson Wyndham Boardwalk
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Motel
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Santa Cruz

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz?

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz provides free cancellation on select room rates. For additional details, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

What can I see within easy reach of Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz?

This motel is situated in Westside Santa Cruz, just steps from Pacific Avenue and Cowell's Beach, and within a short walk of Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. You'll also find Monterey Bay and Mystery Spot within a short drive.

Is there parking available at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz?

Yes, parking is offered for USD 20 per day. Though parking is available on request, accessible parking is also available. You'll find a max of 1 space per unit.

Does Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz feature a casino on the premises?

No, Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz?

No, this motel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a hot tub.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz?

Couples staying at this motel will appreciate amenities like free breakfast plus some guestrooms include jetted bathtubs and kitchens.

Does Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz have a hot tub?

Yes, this motel has a spa tub.

Does Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz offers free continental breakfast each morning though there is no restaurant.

Does Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz though service animals are welcome.

Does Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this motel.

How close is the airport from Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz?

The closest major airport to Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz is Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal), which is 17.2 mi away (28 minutes by car). Another top airport is Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), which is around 27.4 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz?

Yes, some guestrooms at this motel offer either a furnished balcony or a furnished patio where guests can enjoy ocean views.

Reviews

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz Reviews

7.2

Good

7.8/10

Cleanliness

7.4/10

Staff & service

6.4/10

Amenities

6.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.2/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 223 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 354 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 226 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 103 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 95 out of 1001 reviews

Reviews

8/10 Good

dennis

Place was older but seem clean
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Earl

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful location! Great breakfast. Good hotel service.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Steve

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
This Hotel is perfectly suited to walk down to pier or to the boardwalk. It is situated just above the main strip that gets heavy traffic but you are away from it and there is a private drive and stairway to get down to Pacific and Beach streets
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

RoiAne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great place for the price Amazing staff. Huge hot tub. If you want a balcony.... request the top floor, I don't really consider a patio a balcony... but it was still worth it!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Wade

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place to stay. The young lady behind the desk was incredible. Very accommodating and friendly. Will definitely book another stay there again.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Amanda

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
It was located very close to everything, I was able to walk with my kids to boardwalk and beach. It was the basic needs and a decent price. My son was cold and when I asked for an extra blanket, they said they didn’t have any extra blankets or pillows. I thought that was a little weird. The blankets were basically just sheets, so if you get cold easily bring an extra blanket other than that, everyone was very nice and liked we could walk to what we needed in about 10 minutes.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nicole

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

Great Location

Stayed one night with my daughters to do some hiking and hang out at the boardwalk
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Raymond

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The place is a little old but is very clean and the location of the Inn is within walking distance to all the attractions
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Joan

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness
So close to boardwalk and restaurants! Very nice manager, checked in early, parked early
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Gina

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Quiet, next to Boardwalk but away from the crowds. Ice machine was broken and only half of the hot tub worked.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Lupe

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Vance

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Susan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort

Adequate

Old. Cluttered. Room was clean, very comfortable bedding. Very helpful staff.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joshua

Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ann

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Bruce

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Luis

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with group, Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Nice view of the beach
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Lizbeth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

4/10 Poor

Mark

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
Disappointed in the breakfast. All Wyndhams we have stayed at offer some type of protein with breakfast. There was no eggs, bacon or sausage. They had waffles and a few mini muffins, cereal and yogurt.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Kelli

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

Decent Place to Stay

It was a decent hotel for a couple nights with the kids. The hot tub wasnt really hot, test it before you in. It was nice to have the breakfast every morning. Hotel staff was nice. Close enough to the boardwalk to walk.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Reanna

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

6/10 Okay

Jacob

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Beds are a little on the uncomfortable side but overall good location and nice stay.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maria

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
My stay was great!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Judy

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great value for being walking distance to Main Beach and West Cliff drive. The rooms were fine, a little small but the price was great for a weekday overnite stay. Breakfast was continental with not much variety... better to eat elsewhere. But again, price was good for the rooms and location so I don't mind eating elsewhere.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Tim

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good stay. Gave us just what we needed
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025