Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz | Steps from Beach & Boardwalk from $100

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Key details

About the Hotel

325 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 95060

Near the beach

Very good

7.3

7.0

/10

2.3

2.7

Loved by Bay Front Inn guests

Comfy beds

Spacious rooms

Hot shower

Good location

"The pool was open even with the cold weather."

Brennan from United States

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"Very clean. Quite spacious for one room ."

Judy from United States

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"Walking distance to the Boardwalk, pier, and many places to eat."

Tlizt from United States

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3-star waterfront retreat in Santa Cruz

Location

Bay Front Inn is located steps from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf. The hotel provides convenient access to nearby natural attractions such as Natural Bridges State Beach, renowned for its coastal beauty. Visitors can explore the vibrant downtown area, featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within walking distance.

Rooms

The hotel offers 50 well-appointed guest rooms, each equipped with a refrigerator and microwave for added convenience. Some rooms feature private balconies with views of the Monterey Bay, enhancing the coastal experience. Spacious accommodations allow families and groups to enjoy their stay comfortably.

Dining

Bay Front Inn does not have an on-site restaurant; however, guests can benefit from the close proximity to numerous dining options in the area. Just a short walk away, guests can find a variety of local eateries, seafood markets, and cafes. The hotel also offers complimentary coffee in the lobby for a quick refreshment.

Wellness

The hotel features an outdoor pool, providing a refreshing escape for guests looking to relax and unwind. Sun loungers are available around the pool area for those who wish to soak up the sun. A seasonal hot tub complements the pool, creating a space for relaxation after a day of exploration.

Parking

Bay Front Inn provides free parking for guests, allowing easy access to their vehicles for exploring Santa Cruz. The hotel has limited on-site parking but offers additional options nearby for larger vehicles. This convenience alleviates the stress of parking in a busy beach area.

Highlights

Location: Steps from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Rooms: 50 well-appointed guest rooms

Dining: Committed to local eateries

Wellness: Outdoor pool & seasonal hot tub

“For travelers seeking affordability without sacrificing location, this could be a smart pick, situated within walking distance of the wharf and boardwalk. The rooms impress with their cleanliness and comfortable beds, though some may find the parking limited. I noted a recurring concern about responsiveness, potentially due to staffing constraints.”

Olivia SmithEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels

Location: Great

8.6/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningPesto Bagel!

The open-air coffee shop is steps away. Their pesto bagel and the bacon avocado sandwich are delicious.

Karalyn H. from Canada

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Sports & FitnessClean Pool

The swimming pool was very clean and refreshing after a long day at the Boardwalk.

Melissa L. from United States

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Room FeaturesHuge tub!

It has a big TV, a microwave, a small refrigerator and a king-size bed. The bathroom has a huge tub.

Abbie G. from United Kingdom

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Guest ParkingEasy Parking

Parking was easy. I parked right in front of my room. Pet friendly with a small fee.

Jessica M. from Australia

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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals

King Room
2 persons
27 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Heating
room details
Queen Room Two Queen Beds
2 persons
27 sq. feet
2 King Size Beds
Air conditioning
Heating
room details
Standard Family Room
2 persons
53 sq. feet
3 Double beds
Air conditioning
Heating
room details

Show all rooms

Room rates & availability calendar

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Check-in/ Check-out

Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking

Facilities: Very good

7.3/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
Security
Vending machines
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers

Guest Parking

Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Dining

Picnic area/ Tables

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Seasonal outdoor pool
Sun terrace
Garden area

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Room decor

Parquet floor

Location

325 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 95060

Explore Santa Cruz

Local Highlights

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

11 minutes' walk

Famed amusement park with rides, arcade games, and beachfront vibes ideal for families and thrill-seekers.

Santa Cruz Wharf

11 minutes' walk

Iconic wharf featuring shops, restaurants, and stunning views of marine life and coastal scenery.

Museum of Art and History

11 minutes' walk

Cultural hub displaying local art and history, with rotating exhibits and engaging collections.

Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center

11 minutes' walk

Educational center focused on marine conservation, offering interactive exhibits and breathtaking ocean views.

Surfing at Cowell's Beach

5 minutes' walk

Thrilling surfing opportunities for all levels; rentals and lessons available nearby for a perfect day on the waves.

Walking the San Lorenzo River Parkway Trestle Trail

7 minutes' walk

Scenic trail ideal for a leisurely stroll or cycle along the river, providing a relaxing escape amidst nature.

Las Palmas Taco Bar

4 minutes' walk

Casual eatery famed for its authentic tacos and vibrant atmosphere; perfect for quick bites or family meals.

Firefly Coffee House

4 minutes' walk

Charming café offering organic coffee, fresh pastries, and a cozy spot for breakfast or brunch in Santa Cruz.

Nickelodeon Theatre

11 minutes' walk

Historic venue showcasing indie films and classic movies; a great spot for film enthusiasts wanting unique cinematic experiences.

Pacific Garden Mall

11 minutes' walk

Lively outdoor shopping district filled with boutiques, eateries, and seasonal events; suitable for all ages.

Getting around town

City Centre
Santa Cruz 10 min · 2700 ft
Airports
Mineta San Jose International (SJC) 81 min · 33.6 mi
Monterey Peninsula (MRY) 102 min · 42.2 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

from 07:00-11:00

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Year renovated:

2010

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay

Review score

Based on 731 verified reviews

6.7 /10

Nice

56 %

Recommend

Breakfast

2.5/10

Cleanliness

7.7/10

Comfort

7.7/10

Facilities

7.3/10

Free WiFi

6.9/10

Location

8.6/10

Paid Wi-Fi

6.3/10

Staff

7.8/10

Value for money

7.8/10

Pros

Clean room

Comfortable bed

Close to beach

Easy walk

Cons

Closed office

Limited parking

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FAQs

About Bay Front Inn

What are the check-in and check-out times at Bay Front Inn?

Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.

How far is Bay Front Inn from the nearest airport?

The hotel is located 55 km from Mineta San Jose International Airport.

How close is Bay Front Inn to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk?

The hotel is just a 2-minute drive from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

What dining options are nearby Bay Front Inn?

Nearby restaurants include Ideal Bar & Grill, Asti Cafe, The Picnic Basket, Casablanca Bistro, Saturn Cafe, Surf Dog Santa Cruz, and Fosters Freeze, all within 0.5 km.

What room amenities are available at Bay Front Inn?

Rooms include air conditioning, a coffee machine, refrigerator, TV with satellite channels, and complimentary toiletries.

Is there a pool at Bay Front Inn?

Yes, the hotel features a seasonal outdoor pool for guests to enjoy.

What recreational activities can be enjoyed at Bay Front Inn?

Guests can hire bikes to explore the surrounding area and take advantage of the outdoor pool.