Islander Motel Santa Cruz

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

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Photo gallery for Islander Motel Santa Cruz

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

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

View in a map
522 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
  • Place, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Place, University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Mystery Spot
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Airport, San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪47 min drive‬

Room options

Standard Room with 1 King and 1 Full Bed

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

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

  • 150 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

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

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • 150 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Family Room, 2 Bedrooms, Non Smoking

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

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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

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Jack in the Box - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪四姐 Special Noodle - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Woodstock's Pizza Santa Cruz - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪The Jury Room - ‬5 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.

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
  • 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

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.

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.

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 will couples enjoy most about a stay at 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.

Does Islander Motel Santa Cruz have connecting rooms?

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.

Are there rooms with balconies at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Islander Motel Santa Cruz.

Reviews

Islander Motel Santa Cruz Reviews

8.2

Very Good

8.8/10

Cleanliness

8.2/10

Staff & service

7.8/10

Amenities

8.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.2/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 403 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 392 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 116 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 41 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 51 out of 1003 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Kristy

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We stay here every time we visit family in Santa Cruz
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jose

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

10/10 Excellent

AmyJune

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

We love staying here whenever we come to Santa Cru

We love staying here whenever we come to Santa Cruz. Staff is warm and welcoming. Location is very central to downtown.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

ROSA PALACIOS

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Overall, we had a great stay…!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Luis

Traveled with family
Disliked: Amenities
Nothing special about the hotel . The owner was not that friendly. His wife was. The room was clean l hope . The area was in a good location, next to a lot of stores and fast food restaurants .
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christine, Tustin

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Great location, excellent staff, comfortable bed. Older property, however very clean and well kept. Only note is no in room coffee option. Would definitely come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Sofie

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The rooms were clean and no bed bugs, the restrooms were nice. Only issue was customer service my hotel room was under my name but my husband was going to pay. The manger said no and then said he was charging a 100 dollar refundable deposit which i understand but the way he spoke to us was a little rude. Other than that everything else was very great!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Katy

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort
Disliked: Staff & service

Eh!

Room I stayed in could definitely use a new paint job. Window was left open in room and room stunk when I checked in. It’s in an ok location. Pretty noisy with all the cars going by. People outside my room were noisy at like 1 am. Management def was not willing to listen to suggestions. Make sure you take your license plate number or else they won’t give you a room key! Will not be returning due to the management!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Biswadeep

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location and comfortable room
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Sarah

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property was located conveniently in the middle of Santa Cruz and around some wonderful restaurants and businesses. The owner was very polite and went out of her way to help us and bring us fresh towels. I also enjoyed chatting with her. The space was clean and there is a small swimming pool in the front of the complex. We had a relaxing and joyful time there.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Benita, Modesto

Traveled with family
The staff was very helpful when we realized that it was not pet friendly ; that Expedia claimed. They still allowed us to stay and were very pleasant.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

8/10 Good

Richard

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

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer S

Business traveler, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
just a cute no hassle surf hotel.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
It was comfortable. I liked that they looked out for our vehicles in their lot.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

8/10 Good

Heather

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Eusebio

Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

sherrie

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brent

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Sonia

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

10/10 Excellent

Howard

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
our stay was great. Even though it is on a major through street, it was quiet at night
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

2/10 Terrible

Esmeralda

Disliked: Staff & service
Overall room was clean. However front staff specifically Moe provided terrible customer service. Upon checking in, he couldn't confirm my booking and my credit card was charged twice.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

William

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025