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Islander Motel Santa Cruz

2.0 star property

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Photo gallery for Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, desk, iron/ironing board
Point of interest
Free self parking
Reception
Seasonal outdoor pool

Reviews

8.2 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Bar
  • Housekeeping

Explore the area

View in a map
522 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
  • Place, Ocean Street
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Main Beach
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪58 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Standard Room with 1 King and 1 Full Bed

Standard Room with 1 King and 1 Full Bed | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, desk, iron/ironing board

Standard Room with 1 King and 1 Full Bed

  • 192 sq ft
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Roll-in Shower, Non Smoking

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Roll-in Shower, Non Smoking | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, desk, iron/ironing board

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Roll-in Shower, Non Smoking

  • 150 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, desk, iron/ironing board

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(23 reviews)
  • 150 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, desk, iron/ironing board

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(5 reviews)
  • 150 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Family Room, 2 Bedrooms, Non Smoking

Family Room, 2 Bedrooms, Non Smoking | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, desk, iron/ironing board

Family Room, 2 Bedrooms, Non Smoking

  • 150 sq ft
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Santa Cruz

Located in Westside Santa Cruz, Islander Motel Santa Cruz is within a mile (2 km) of popular sights such as Mission Santa Cruz and Main Beach. The 22 rooms at this motel include microwaves, flat-screen TVs, and Egyptian cotton linens.
View more Motels in Santa CruzOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Ocean Street - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Pacific Avenue - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Main Beach - 16 min walk - 0.9 miles
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 16 min walk - 0.9 miles
  • Santa Cruz Wharf - 20 min walk - 1.1 miles

Getting around

  • Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC) - 42 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Taqueria Los Pericos - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Jack in the Box - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Woodstock's Pizza Santa Cruz - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Pacific Cookie Company - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪四姐 Special Noodle - ‬3 min walk

About this property

Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Guests of Islander Motel Santa Cruz enjoy free WiFi in public areas, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a vending machine. Free parking is included with your stay. Front-desk staff are standing by 24/7 to assist with any requests.
32-inch flat-screen TVs come with cable channels, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Beds are dressed in Egyptian cotton sheets and bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Other amenities include microwaves, free local calls, and ironing boards.
Recreational amenities at the motel include a seasonal outdoor pool.

Children under 5 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool without adult supervision. Guests under 5 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool.

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

Similar properties

Exterior
Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, 887 reviews
$71 nightly
The price is $82
Apr 27 - Apr 28
Total with taxes and fees
Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 25+ Mbps
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Things to do

  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • Fenced pool
  • In-room microwave
  • Mini-fridge
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Grab bar near toilet (33 inches high)
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)

More

  • 1 building
  • 2 floors
  • Built in 1963
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Traditional architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Egyptian cotton sheets

Bathroom

  • Bathtub or shower
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 32-inch flat-screen TV with premium cable channels

Food and drink

  • Microwave
  • Mini-fridge

More

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

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 1:00 AM
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in fee: USD 25
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 19

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Late check-out subject to availability
Late check-out fee: USD 50.00

Special check-in instructions

Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
Prior to arrival, you must complete online registration via a secure link
You will be asked to provide the property with a copy of your government-issued photo ID after booking
If you are planning to arrive after 3:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
The credit card used to book the reservation must be presented by the cardholder at check-in along with matching photo identification, and other arrangements must be coordinated with the property prior to arrival
For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • One child 5 years old or younger stays free, per registered adult, when using existing bedding

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.

  • Early check-in fee: USD 25 (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 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
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards and mobile payments; cash is not accepted
Mobile payment options include: Google Pay and Apple Pay
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
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: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 19
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. 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.
  • 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.
  • This property accepts credit cards and mobile payments. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Mobile payment options include: Google Pay and Apple Pay.
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • The seasonal pool is open from May 15 to October 31.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • No alcohol is served at Islander Motel Santa Cruz.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Islander Motel Santa Cruz
Islander Santa Cruz
The Islander Motel
The Islander Motel Santa Cruz
Islander Santa Cruz Santa Cruz
Islander Motel Santa Cruz Motel
Islander Motel Santa Cruz Santa Cruz
Islander Motel Santa Cruz Motel Santa Cruz

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

Islander Motel Santa Cruz offers free cancellation on select room rates. If you'd like to learn more, review the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

As of Mar 31, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Islander Motel Santa Cruz on Apr 7, 2026 start from $76, including 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's there to see around Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

This motel is situated in Westside Santa Cruz, just steps from Ocean Street, and within a 10-minute walk of Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History and Pacific Garden Mall. You'll also find Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the motel.

Does Islander Motel Santa Cruz feature a casino?

No, Islander Motel Santa Cruz doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

No, this motel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool. The seasonal pool will be open from May 15 until October 31.

Is Islander Motel Santa Cruz good for couples?

Couples staying at this motel will appreciate amenities like Egyptian cotton sheets as well as a seasonal outdoor pool and a 24-hour front desk.

Are there hot tubs at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

No, this motel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Islander Motel Santa Cruz have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

No, Islander Motel Santa Cruz doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will Islander Motel Santa Cruz allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Islander Motel Santa Cruz though service animals are welcome.

Are there connecting rooms at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

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

What is the closest airport to Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

The closest major airport to Islander Motel Santa Cruz is Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal), which is 15.4 mi away (18 minutes by car). Another top airport is Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC), which is around 27.7 mi away.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

No, you won't find guestrooms with balconies at Islander Motel Santa Cruz.

Islander Motel Santa Cruz Reviews

Reviews

8.2

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 427 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 376 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 107 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 39 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 53 out of 1002 reviews

8.8/10

Cleanliness

8.2/10

Staff & service

7.8/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

James

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great room Great staff
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dustin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Great place
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
My go to hotel in SC. Clean Safe and the owners are wonderful!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Patie, Santa Cruz

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Easy parking, friendly, helpful person at check-in, close proximity to the downtown. Good value for the price. Have stayed here before and will stay here next time I’m in Santa Cruz
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Spotless. Fells like it’s been newly renovated. Excellent shower. Half a mile to the vibrant downtown. The receptionist was friendly and welcoming.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Ron

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was good
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Clean, comfortable and very accommodating.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mindy

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

10/10 Excellent

Deborah

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Steven

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
I have stayed at this property 20 plus times. It is not fancy but quite clean and the staff is run by a family and they seem to really care. I stay here because I enjoy the owners (the family). Price is reasonable. Bed is comfortable, however the desk and chair is not great but I overlook this because I love the location and the people who work there.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Philip

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The motel's in a good location, staff are friendly, and the rooms are clean and tidy, however the beds are very hard and uncomfortable - did not get a good night's sleep either night. There are also very bright lights along the outside walkways and the curtains don't fully block them so there was very bright strip of light in the room all night long (didn't bother me but kept my wife awake the first night).
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Jane

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Rooms itself were clean. the entire facility, however was tires. Just needs a refresh.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gilbert

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very affordable
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Comfortable and safe!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jasmin

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was comfortable and clean. The parking was right in front of our room so it was very convenient. The only thing I would mention is the noise from the parking lot in the morning got a little loud as people would leave.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

matthew

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leoncio

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Great
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Anita

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Pleasant short stay. Room was very small but had all the amenities we needed.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

4/10 Poor

Jaime

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Staff & service
Okay do the reviews seem on par however i would like to add my 2 cents. Yes the rooms are affordable however i would never stay here again. There was a stain on my blanket and the pool closed very early. The couple who runs this place are the rudest people ever! We were so happy to go on this family trip but they charge extra per person which we did not know. It did not ask us how many people were staying and the front desk guy is super rude and sexist! He would not let me get a work in and talked over me. Very condescending towards women but once by husband stepped in it was a different tone. The woman is an instigator and they were speaking badly about us. The beds were not comfortable at all and its in a shady area. Parking lot is small and the rooms looked alot better in the photos than irl. Super disappointed, would not stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Sherrie

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Jennifer

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
It was clean. Staff very friendly. Parking spaces are tough, very small.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Tiffany

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

MARC, TORRANCE

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Small parking lot. Be sure to call ahead with special requests for rooms. They don’t read requests.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sally

Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025

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