Islander Motel Santa Cruz

2.0 star property
Motel with free parking, near Mission Santa Cruz

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Seasonal outdoor pool
Free self parking
Point of interest
Reception
Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking | 1 bedroom, Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, desk

Reviews

8.2 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Housekeeping
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
522 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
  • Main Beach
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Mystery Spot
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪47 min drive‬

Book today, save on your next hotel stay

It's that easy when you're a member of Orbitz Rewards. It's free to join!

Room options

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

  • 150 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

  • 150 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Standard Room with 1 King and 1 Full Bed

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

Family Room, 2 Bedrooms, Non Smoking

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

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

  • 150 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

You may also like

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.

What's nearby

  • Main Beach - 16 min walk - 0.9 miles
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Santa Cruz Wharf - 20 min walk - 1.1 miles
  • University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum - 3 min drive - 2.0 miles
  • Mystery Spot - 8 min drive - 4.1 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Jack in the Box - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Woodstock's Pizza Santa Cruz - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Abbott Square Market - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Los Viejones - ‬7 min walk

About this property

Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Motel with free parking, near Mission 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.

Languages

English

Similar properties

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
  • Smoke-free property
  • 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

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 Jun 15, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Islander Motel Santa Cruz on Jun 16, 2025 start from $105.0, 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's there to see around Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

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

Is there parking available 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.

What do couples enjoy most about Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

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.

Does Islander Motel Santa Cruz have a hot tub?

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, this motel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

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, at Islander Motel Santa Cruz, there aren't any guestrooms that list a balcony.

Islander Motel Santa Cruz Reviews

Reviews

8.2

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 390 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 393 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 124 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 42 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 54 out of 1003 reviews

8.8/10

Cleanliness

8.2/10

Staff & service

7.8/10

Amenities

8.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.2/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Rita

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is a motel not so far from UC Santa Cruz and an ideal place to stay when visiting your "Slug." The parking was very lit and quite empty on Saturday night; the lady at the reception appeared very polite and with good customer skills; the prices were competitive; the shower - updated; the bed - comfy and there was even an iron and a drier, as well as a microwave and a fridge in the room. The only thing that was missing was a coffee maker and water in the outside Cold Drinks machine... but the coffee maker was not advertised as "available" in the description anyway, so I have nothing to complain about! I'd recommend this place to anyone who passes by Santa Cruz and UCSC!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Katie

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Staff was kind and helpful
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Fidel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything is good
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stefan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very clean!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Reyna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very nice
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carol

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Anita

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

Fantastic

Rose was wonderful! Will stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Kenneth

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We loved the islander Motel. No hidden fees on Ac or anything of that nature. And very welcoming staff. 10/10 Would stay Again
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

4/10 Poor

Emma

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Cleanliness
Stains on sheets and easily opened door (thin) but nice hosts and convenient parking.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Monica A

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Frances

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

10/10 Excellent

Shani

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

Great location

Great owners and comfortable bed. Clean rooms. Street traffic can get loud but that's why we have ear plugs.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paul, Billings

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great off season value. Extremely comfortable and quiet rooms. Peet’s coffee in the lobby. 5 HBO channels. Cool pool. Local and friendly owners.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mathew

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jason

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Easy access to all the Surfing spots..
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Osama

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very good, good price
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

2/10 Terrible

Josh

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Matthew

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Liked it a lot.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

JENNIFER

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

10/10 Excellent

Jeremey

Traveled with partner
Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff is very friendly had great interactions they really care about your comfort
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paul, Billings

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent motel. All around nice and comfortable
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

NISHAN

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

2/10 Terrible

andon

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Monica, Madera

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

2/10 Terrible

Omar

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024