Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Name: Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Address: 130 West Cliff Drive, Westside Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, United States of America, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz County, US
Price range: $131–$383 per night
Rating: 6.98

$184

/ night

Avg. for September

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz - Image 1

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz - Room

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz - Pool

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz - Bathroom

Select dates to see prices and availability

$184

/ night

Avg. for September

Monthly average prices

Nightly prices at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz average $103 in January, the cheapest month, and $252 in July, the most expensive, based on the last 12 months.

Average nightly price at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz by month, last 12 months (USD)
Month	Average price
January	$103
February	$130
March	$152
April	$175
May	$188
June	$250
July	$252
August	$223
September	$184
October	$145
November	$126
December	$116

Most expensive: July (~$252)

Cheapest: January (~$103)

About this property

Take advantage of recreation opportunities such as a hot tub, or other amenities including complimentary wireless internet access and a banquet hall.

Parking
Hot Tub / Jacuzzi
Non-Smoking Rooms
Business Center
Housekeeping
Banquet Facilities

Show all

Location

130 West Cliff Drive, Westside Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, United States of America

Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center (0.1 miles)

Pacific Avenue (0.1 miles)

Room details

1 Queen Bed

Sleeps 2

355 ft²

Air Conditioning

Wi-Fi (Free)

Refrigerator

Business Room, 2 Queen Beds, Ocean View

Room details

2 Queen Beds

Sleeps 4

350 ft²

Balcony

Air Conditioning

Wi-Fi (Free)

Refrigerator

Business Room, 1 King Bed, Ocean View

Room details

1 King Bed

Sleeps 2

350 ft²

Balcony

Air Conditioning

Wi-Fi (Free)

Refrigerator

Room, 2 Double Beds (2Nd Floor)

Room details

2 Full Beds

Sleeps 4

355 ft²

Air Conditioning

Wi-Fi (Free)

Refrigerator

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

Room details

1 King Bed

Sleeps 2

Air Conditioning

Wi-Fi (Free)

Refrigerator

Guest reviews

Pleasant

Based on 1,107 verified reviews

Who stays here?

Business

Couple

29%

Family

48%

Group

10%

Solo

What guests think

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Travellers describe Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz as a walkable base near the beach, pier, and boardwalk, with many praising friendly staff and generally clean rooms, while noting the property feels older and some features show wear.

Facilities

Cleanliness

Rooms

Service

Location

Dining

Was this helpful?

What guests think

Guests also appreciated ocean‑view rooms and private balconies on some units. Amenities include a hot tub that is occasionally cold or closed, and there is no pool. Breakfast is appreciated but simple, and several guests reported unreliable Wi‑Fi along with intermittent maintenance issues or street noise. Expect a straightforward, no‑frills stay with strengths in convenience over amenities.

Facilities

Cleanliness

Rooms

Service

Location

Dining

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Facilities

Hot tub available, but multiple reviews say it was cold, partly working, or closed; there is no pool. Some mention free parking, while the ice machine had issues.

Related guest reviews

melissa

Jul 8, 2025

Stayed 1 night

The location was perfect! Free parking and walking distance to the Wharf

Michael

Aug 12, 2024

Stayed 2 nights

Breakfast was skimpy. There is no pool. There is a hot tub, but guests were in there drinking bottled alcohol, and talking nonsense to my grandchildren. When we checked out, nobody was at the front desk. We left the keys, and still haven’t been emailed an invoice

Sandra

Jan 6, 2026

Stayed 2 nights

Room was spacious and clean. Breakfast good with waffles. Covered spa area was enjoyable.

Sarah

Dec 30, 2025

Stayed 2 nights

Solid breakfast, enjoyed the hot tub, friendly staff.

Alexander

Dec 3, 2025

Stayed 1 night

great place for the family of 6 right by the beach breakfast was great but the hot tub was cold!

Juan

Aug 24, 2025

Stayed 2 nights

No swimming pool but it's okay.

Tim

Oct 9, 2025

Stayed 3 nights

We had a great stay and enjoyed the hot tub and other amenities. Very friendly staff.

Gina

Jun 4, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Quiet, next to Boardwalk but away from the crowds. Ice machine was broken and only half of the hot tub worked.

Rebecca

Jun 22, 2024

Stayed 2 nights

Having a 3 bed room within waking distance to boardwalk and warf was very convenient. The room was cozy but clean. Hot tub was nice, breakfast was slim but we were happy to have waffles included in room price.

Terry

Sep 24, 2025

Stayed 2 nights

The hot tub was covered and padlocked closed Internet didn’t work most of the time Parking lot was being resurfaced so we have to find alternate parking, but we were lucky to find a spot on the premises. The bed was a little too firm for me It was a little loud due to street traffic. The room was clean and the balcony and ocean view was really nice! The breakfast selection was good! The staff was nice and apologetic about the inconvenience

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Cleanliness

Most reviews cite clean rooms. A few report isolated cleanliness or maintenance issues.

Related guest reviews

Tara

Aug 12, 2025

Stayed 1 night

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.

Ramandeep

Jan 26, 2026

Stayed 2 nights

Clean and in a great location!

Sandra

Jan 6, 2026

Stayed 2 nights

Room was spacious and clean. Breakfast good with waffles. Covered spa area was enjoyable.

Dichie

Nov 24, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Room was clean

Susan

May 23, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Old. Cluttered. Room was clean, very comfortable bedding. Very helpful staff.

Jody

Jul 19, 2023

Stayed 5 nights

Beautiful clean

Yvette

Sep 21, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Nice and clean room. Close to the beach.

Rick

Nov 8, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Clean room. Easy access to wharf and pier.

Gloria

Oct 31, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Clean room, friendly service y safe area.

Bonnie

Feb 27, 2025

Stayed 1 night

The lady at the front desk when we came in was just delightful and then the next day. I talked to 2 ladies, the same lady as the day before and another lady and they were wonderful too. The room was clean.Just I was very pleased

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Rooms

Some rooms feature ocean views and balconies, but decor feels dated. Several guests mention unreliable Wi‑Fi, mixed bed comfort, occasional noise, and minor maintenance concerns.

Related guest reviews

Julie

Sep 26, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Loved the balcony and view! Nice check in gal and such an easy walk to the Pier and beach ⛱️ We will be back!

Diana

Dec 7, 2023

Stayed 2 nights

Location is great! Short walk to wharf and boardwalk. Room was clean. The balcony had an ocean view just beyond the buildings. Beautiful view of the sunrise.

Luis

May 5, 2025

Stayed 2 nights

Nice view of the beach

Scott

Jun 16, 2024

Stayed 2 nights

Our room had a great view of the ocean, walking distance to the beach. Internet didn’t work though so if you’re planning to go online you’ll need to use your phone’s hotspot. Staff couldn’t help either. I gave 4 stars because of the internet, you need to be under 5 feet tall to comfortably use the shower, and the plug in scent was too strong and we had to place it outside. At least it wasn’t a floral scent so it wasn’t bad once we placed it outside the room for our stay. Overall a good experience, the staff was friendly and as helpful as they could be. Thank you for a good experience. :-)

Cindy

Nov 10, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Courteous staff, comfortable bed.

John

Oct 1, 2025

Stayed 2 nights

Great people just the rooms are getting run down from just being old. Great view maybe up date the rooms with the great views

Jacob

Apr 17, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Beds are a little on the uncomfortable side but overall good location and nice stay.

sue

May 26, 2024

Stayed 2 nights

Bad experience give us wrong room first then we want to leave then they switch room we book for 2 nights but we stay only 1 night because internet was not working we ask they said we have to call technical support that we never expect guest have to call to fix internet :( we were not able to work so staff was good but ask them If can speak with owner he refuse to talk to talk to us even he was at the property that time. so we decide not to stay for 2nd night. we booked this because Wyndham but overall bad experience and waste money.

Alison

Sep 12, 2024

Stayed 2 nights

The girl at check in was very pleasant and friendly The place itself and rooms are a little outdated but still very clean and location is great Water pressure is horrible Woman at check out was not as friendly as check in lady

Terry

Sep 24, 2025

Stayed 2 nights

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Service

Staff are frequently described as friendly and accommodating, with some standout front desk experiences. However, a few guests reported poor follow‑up or unprofessional interactions.

Related guest reviews

Gena

Jan 25, 2026

Stayed 1 night

The room was amazing staff was more than accommodating and nice

Sarah

Dec 30, 2025

Stayed 2 nights

Solid breakfast, enjoyed the hot tub, friendly staff.

Emily

Oct 13, 2024

Stayed 2 nights

All the staff were amazing!

LINDA

Aug 24, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Very happy with our overall stay. Hotel staff friendly and helpful.

Wade

Jun 26, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Great place to stay. The young lady behind the desk was incredible. Very accommodating and friendly. Will definitely book another stay there again.

Yvette

Dec 10, 2025

Stayed 1 night

The staff is super nice. I live staying here

Richie

Mar 28, 2023

Stayed 1 night

The beds here are absolute trash the worst sleep ever. Nothing worked there ice machine hot tub. The staff was rude. It was all around one of the worst hotels I’ve ever stayed at!

Tim

Oct 9, 2025

Stayed 3 nights

We had a great stay and enjoyed the hot tub and other amenities. Very friendly staff.

Laura

Jul 25, 2025

Stayed 1 night

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.

Richard Schwarz

Oct 10, 2024

Stayed 1 night

The Manager, Celeste, was exceptional! She took our many requests, and went above and beyond to help us. She was always kind, polite, and extra nice to the kids, even giving them little notebooks and pens.

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Location

Widely praised for easy walks to the beach, wharf, and boardwalk. A few note traffic nearby.

Related guest reviews

melissa

Jul 8, 2025

Stayed 1 night

The location was perfect! Free parking and walking distance to the Wharf

Ramandeep

Jan 26, 2026

Stayed 2 nights

Clean and in a great location!

Julie

Sep 26, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Loved the balcony and view! Nice check in gal and such an easy walk to the Pier and beach ⛱️ We will be back!

Diana

Dec 7, 2023

Stayed 2 nights

Location is great! Short walk to wharf and boardwalk. Room was clean. The balcony had an ocean view just beyond the buildings. Beautiful view of the sunrise.

Cristina

Jul 27, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Walked to pier and boardwalk

Greg

Feb 28, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Location close to Boardwalk

Steve

Jun 27, 2025

Stayed 2 nights

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

Yvette

Sep 21, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Nice and clean room. Close to the beach.

Catrina

Oct 28, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Great location for walking to red d

Rick

Nov 8, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Clean room. Easy access to wharf and pier.

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Dining

Breakfast is appreciated but basic, with waffles a highlight and limited protein or variety noted.

Related guest reviews

Sandra

Jan 6, 2026

Stayed 2 nights

Room was spacious and clean. Breakfast good with waffles. Covered spa area was enjoyable.

Sarah

Dec 30, 2025

Stayed 2 nights

Solid breakfast, enjoyed the hot tub, friendly staff.

Alexander

Dec 3, 2025

Stayed 1 night

great place for the family of 6 right by the beach breakfast was great but the hot tub was cold!

Earl

Jul 4, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Beautiful location! Great breakfast. Good hotel service.

Judy

Apr 14, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Great value for being walking distance to Main Beach and West Cliff drive. The rooms were fine, a little small but the price was great for a weekday overnite stay. Breakfast was continental with not much variety... better to eat elsewhere. But again, price was good for the rooms and location so I don't mind eating elsewhere.

Kelli

Apr 19, 2025

Stayed 2 nights

It was a decent hotel for a couple nights with the kids. The hot tub wasnt really hot, test it before you in. It was nice to have the breakfast every morning. Hotel staff was nice. Close enough to the boardwalk to walk.

Carol

Sep 16, 2025

Stayed 2 nights

My sister and I have stayed there two other times, she more than that. I had requested an Accessible room and we did not get it. There was only 1 in the hotel and it does not face the bay. Our room should have had a grab/safety bar to hold onto in the bathtub. The bathtub was slippery as there was no non-slip mat in the tub. We put a towel/bath mat inside the tub so I wouldn't slip. Breakfast could have provided some more protein like peanut butter. Otherwise, it was good.

Mark

Apr 28, 2025

Stayed 1 night

Disappointed in the breakfast. All Wyndhams we have stayed at offer some type of protein with breakfast. There was no eggs, bacon or sausage. They had waffles and a few mini muffins, cereal and yogurt.

Linda

Jul 22, 2025

Stayed 2 nights

Liked breakfast included.

Terry

Sep 24, 2025

Stayed 2 nights

Was this helpful?

AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Neal

Aug 9, 2026

Stayed 3 nights

We’ve stayed at this hotel multiple times before and once we knew we were gonna spend some time in Santa Cruz again this was our choice. Khaya was very helpful as always and responded to our needs, whether that was extra towels, notification when our room was ready (we arrived early), or an extra key when needed. This is a great location close to the Santa Cruz wharf and main beach with a hot tub to relax in after a long day in the sun.

nachet

Jul 30, 2026

Stayed 2 nights

Location and friendly staff were the best parts. Perfect short walk to beach and boardwalk. The hotel is a good 2 star. Not fancy but still great. Celeste and her staff were so friendly!

Jennifer

Jul 15, 2026

Stayed 1 night

The staff was great from the beginning, accommodating, and helpful with information. The room catered to what we needed for our large family. The breakfast was a true continental, nothing special but got the kids fed enough. The hot tub area was very big and spacious, but also a safety risk. One of the rails leading to the tub was detached, the tiles are very slippery, and rusty. Only half of the jets worked, but regardless after a long day of walking, it was nice to relax.

Wade

Jul 6, 2026

Stayed 1 night

Staff was courteous and helpful, and the room was clean. This motel definitely shows it's age, looks to be built in the 70s with 90s styling. The tub, while clean, was well worn from years of use. Location was good, just a 5 minute walk from the pier. Parking lot is awful, bring your smallest car if you want to maneuver around into and out of some of the spaces (seemed to us that these were the only ones left if you arrive later in the evening)

Christian

Jul 5, 2026

Stayed 2 nights

Great check in experience, great location. Cozy Lil hot tub. Walls are a wee bit thin.

Property Policies

Check-in instructions

Everything you need to know for a smooth check-in.

Check-in

Check-out

From 15:00 to 23:00

Before 11:00

Good to know

Additional policies and info about this property.

Optional extras

Additional paid services you can request.

FAQs about Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Is parking available at the property?

Yes, parking is available on-site. Guests must contact the property in advance to reserve parking as it is limited.

What type of breakfast is offered and what are the serving hours?

A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

What are the standard check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and check-out is at 11:00 AM. Early check-in is available for a fee of USD 45, and late check-out is available for USD 50, both subject to availability.

What accessibility features are available for guests with disabilities?

The property offers limited wheelchair accessibility, including step-free entrances and accessible public areas. However, specific details should be confirmed with the property prior to arrival.

What is the location of the property in relation to key landmarks?

The hotel is centrally located in Santa Cruz, within a 5-minute drive of Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay. It is approximately 2.9 miles from the University of California, Santa Cruz and 5.3 miles from Capitola Beach.

Does the property have a swimming pool?

The property does not mention having a swimming pool. However, it does feature a hot tub for guests to enjoy.

What are the policies for guests staying with children?

Children are allowed at the property. The minimum age for children to stay for free is not specified, so it is advisable to check with the property directly for specific policies.

Have a question?

Instant AI responses are based on hotel information

Considering this hotel for your Santa Cruz trip?

What do room rates usually run at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz?

Over the next 60–90 days, room rates at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz typically land around $134 a night for two guests, ranging from $112 to $297 on peak dates.

When is the quietest time to visit Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz?

The quietest stretch at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz is October, while demand peaks in January. If you prefer fewer crowds and easier availability, plan travel for early autumn rather than winter.

Which month has the lowest rates at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz?

January is the cheapest month to stay at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz, averaging $118 a night; July is the priciest month, averaging $284. January’s low rates come even though the quietest month for crowds is October.

What’s nearby and who is this hotel good for?

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz sits close to Pacific Avenue, the Santa Cruz Wharf and Cowell's Beach, making it convenient for beach outings and seaside strolls. The property suits families and couples and also appeals to business and adventure travellers looking to mix work with coastal activities.

How do this hotel's rates compare with other hotels nearby?

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz is cheaper than 2 of 19 comparable hotels nearby, with a typical median of $158 a night versus about $114 for peers.

How does the nightly price at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz compare to recent weeks?

The current price at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz is $167 per night for 2 guests, which is low for this hotel: about 30% below its $243 average over the last 60 days. Most nights over that period fell between $155 and $469.

Prices for upcoming dates

September 2026

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
		1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14	15 $134	16 $134	17 $202	18 $307	19 $357
20 $168	21 $158	22 $151	23 $143	24 $150	25 $256	26 $383
27 $155	28 $177	29 $175	30 $159

October 2026

Cheaper

Pricier

Average nightly price across deals, with taxes & fees.

Prices in USD for 2 guests, updated daily.

2026-09-15: 133.8577545758667USD
2026-09-16: 133.9283098387146USD
2026-09-17: 201.6596365885315USD
2026-09-18: 307.4425769595337USD
2026-09-19: 356.8534470352173USD
2026-09-20: 168.29800226254272USD
2026-09-21: 158.3809291880188USD
2026-09-22: 151.09896400125123USD
2026-09-23: 143.06627285762025USD
2026-09-24: 149.92333055114747USD
2026-09-25: 255.7615952635193USD
2026-09-26: 382.8508163744507USD
2026-09-27: 154.6771916765442USD
2026-09-28: 177.1188715826721USD
2026-09-29: 175.3806096539612USD
2026-09-30: 159.13168155688476USD
2026-10-01: 152.77244609167482USD
2026-10-02: 226.03844319467163USD
2026-10-03: 278.93118996029665USD
2026-10-04: 149.92297839111328USD
2026-10-05: 144.6101952714691USD
2026-10-06: 144.6101952714691USD
2026-10-07: 144.60141768261718USD
2026-10-08: 167.91772224963378USD
2026-10-09: 247.56693691616823USD
2026-10-10: 270.81210515628055USD
2026-10-11: 142.85908830551148USD
2026-10-12: 144.6101952714691USD
2026-10-13: 144.6101952714691USD
2026-10-14: 143.10945648181152USD
2026-10-15: 143.06627285762025USD
2026-10-16: 239.77176891159058USD
2026-10-17: 258.7630728428345USD
2026-10-18: 144.60141768261718USD
2026-10-19: 130.95244309788512USD
2026-10-20: 138.9567413387604USD
2026-10-21: 137.38723449842834USD
2026-10-22: 131.22210964405824USD
2026-10-23: 239.70698907330322USD
2026-10-24: 320.2823318057251USD
2026-10-25: 136.24204528327942USD
2026-10-26: 141.79227230596925USD
2026-10-27: 136.24204528327942USD
2026-10-28: 136.24204528327942USD
2026-10-29: 136.24204528327942USD
2026-10-30: 239.77176891159058USD
2026-10-31: 253.3020391528015USD
2026-11-01: 118.96296985021974USD
2026-11-02: 119.51610761590577USD
2026-11-03: 119.51610761590577USD
2026-11-04: 119.36764574949646USD
2026-11-05: 118.24480108851624USD
2026-11-06: 217.94098101675417USD
2026-11-07: 270.92565915930174USD
2026-11-08: 118.24480108851624USD
2026-11-09: 119.51610761590577USD
2026-11-10: 119.51610761590577USD
2026-11-11: 124.88472570896911USD
2026-11-12: 118.24480108851624USD
2026-11-13: 169.6867277493286USD
2026-11-14: 167.3311644967041USD
2026-11-15: 115.62368275811768USD

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
				1 $153	2 $226	3 $279
4 $150	5 $145	6 $145	7 $145	8 $168	9 $248	10 $271
11 $143	12 $145	13 $145	14 $143	15 $143	16 $240	17 $259
18 $145	19 $131	20 $139	21 $137	22 $131	23 $240	24 $320
25 $136	26 $142	27 $136	28 $136	29 $136	30 $240	31 $253