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Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz

2.0 star property
Motel with free breakfast, 9-minute 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
Property amenity
Business Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Ocean View | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Lobby

Reviews

7.2 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Hot Tub
  • Laundry
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking included
  • 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, Pacific Avenue
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪45 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Room, 2 Double Beds, Non Smoking (2nd Floor)

Room, 2 Double Beds, Non Smoking (2nd Floor) | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

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

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

View all photos for Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking (2nd Floor)

Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking (2nd Floor) | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

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

  • 355 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Business Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Ocean View

Business Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Ocean View | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

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

View all photos for Business Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Ocean View

Business Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Ocean View | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

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

View all photos for Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Business Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking, Partial Ocean View

Business Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking, Partial Ocean View | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

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

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

Business Room, Multiple Beds, Non Smoking, Ocean View (Partial) | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

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

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking (Mobility, Roll-In Shower)

Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

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

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

View all photos for Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Ocean View

Suite, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Ocean View | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

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 free self parking.
View more Motels in Santa CruzOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Santa Cruz Wharf - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Pacific Avenue - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Santa Cruz Main Beach - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Main Beach - 2 min walk - 0.1 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, 9-minute 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. Free parking is included with your stay. Dry cleaning/laundry services make packing light an option. Additional amenities include a computer station, laundry facilities, and a banquet hall.
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.

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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
  • Free self parking on site
  • 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.

  • 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 free 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.
  • 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 Santa Cruz Wharf and Main Beach less than a mile away.

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

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the motel. 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 will couples enjoy most about a stay 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, guests can enjoy a spa tub at this motel.

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.

Are there connecting rooms at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz?

No, this motel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

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.

Can I book a room with a balcony 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.

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz Reviews

Reviews

7.2

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 227 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 351 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 225 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 102 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 95 out of 1000 reviews

7.8/10

Cleanliness

7.4/10

Staff & service

6.6/10

Amenities

6.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.2/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

John

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

elgin

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Heather, Gilbert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Will definitely stay here in the future
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Tara

Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Falsely advertised. This place is not clean, there were little hairs in the bed & on the towels. Absolutely disgusting. Never staying in a Howard Johnson brand again after this.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

William

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

6/10 Okay

Jana

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Staff and room are great . Area and breakfast are not
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Molly

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

adora

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Cristina

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Walked to pier and boardwalk
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

lena

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Screen was broken on patio door could not leave door open
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

2/10 Terrible

Laura, Modesto

Traveled with family
The girl that initially checked us in was Kai ( I hope that’s right) and she was excellent. But the room was not as described at all. Then the manager did not come in to address the problem. The guy at the front desk was super high and avoided me. It was terrible.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeremy

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Linda

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Liked breakfast included.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Elizabeth

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Keily

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort

Overnight anniversary trip

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

2/10 Terrible

Matthew

Disliked: Staff & service
I will never do business with this shady company again.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveler

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

Never again

A lot of noise from the street and we were in one of the rooms off the hallway leading to the hot tub. People were talking loudly and singing in the hot tub after 11PM and it sounded like they were just outside the door. The phone had no dial tone to call the office and complain, and the TV had no antenna signal. The bathroom walls and tub had been poorly patched. There was hair on one of the towels.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Burhan

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

10/10 Excellent

melissa

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

perfect little spot

The location was perfect! Free parking and walking distance to the Wharf
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

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

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