We had a wonderful stay here at Bella Notte. We were looking for a place that was dog friendly since we had our 11 yr old Pikachu (Pekingese/Chihuahua mix) ESA -Emotional Support Animal with us. Our room was very Spacious and felt Luxurious. The location is perfect since the Beach and some restaurants were walking distance away. Downtown and the Boardwalk was only about 15 minutes driving distance. Their Hospitality was excellent and were just a phone call away. Enjoyed our stay and would highly recommend! Thanks again Bella Notte read more

See all

Place is clean, staff freindly and location is conveninent. The only con is that it just needs to be updated a bit. The shower curtain has a funky smell. Otherwise, it's a decent place to sleep. read more

Solid choice for a relaxed, comfortable place to relax in Santa Cruz. This is away the action - this is on the east side. It works really well when you know you'd like to be close enough to beaches and parks, low-key restaurants and cafes, but not in a noisy place. The rooms are comfortable, a bit quaint, at times they show a bit of age. Still, this unique inn is big enough to be a thoroughly professional clean and cozy venue. I've been here twice now, and would stay again. Helpful, daily housekeeping service is appreciated. At at time when many places offer this a few times a week, or maybe only by request, Bella Notte keeps you well-stocked and ready for your stay. The gentleman behind the desk is friendly and helpful. I recall having to phone the Inn a few times prior to booking, and he was knowledgeable and patient. (I sometimes couldn't fully get their website to work) The small parking lot is big enough so cars have plenty of room to park and to move. The location of the Inn is somewhere between the West Side of Santa Cruz and Capitola to the east. Many things to do -- or not do, if you like. I realized that on Sunday there is a long-standing farmers market just a couple blocks away. Also, there's a couple places to for breakfast and lunch, as well as a small Mexican bakery/store nearby. No pix, sorry! Still, definitely recommend. read more

Great location, can walk through charming and peaceful neighborhoods to a couple beaches. Not really the type of beaches you can lay out at and tan, more for bonfires or taking dogs. The property is well maintained and the rooms were sparkling clean. Minimalist rooms, no frills but has all the essentials and a great comfy bed. Pillows were fluffy which was great for my daughter but my neck needs a flat pillow and there were no options for that so I had to sleep with no pillow. Not a big deal but worth mentioning for the other flat pillow people out there. The only real downer was the water pressure in the shower. I know it's California and we have to keep pressure down but I also live in California and that water pressure was really really low. And doesn't get very hot. So showers weren't to enjoyable but not a big enough deal for me to remove a star. All the other great things (comfort, location, price, quiet) made up for the shower for me. read more

This is a gem. Great location, easy to get to & quieter area. You can walk over to the beaches or just take in the view from the clifftop bench on 14th Ave. Our son and his S.O. stayed at Bella Notte for their recent visit. They loved it, he said, "I'm a customer for life!" Beautiful immaculate room with huge comfortable bed. The heated bathroom floor is now something we all want. They loved the robes & that the snack tray is free (no paying $5 for a water). Loved the high ceiling on their 2nd floor room. They got up early and walked over to enjoy the sunrise at 14th Ave beach, then went down to Pleasure Point to take more pictures. Several local restaurants are right there to walk to, we joined them for a delicious breakfast at Evarista's Comal. (I also recommend Evarista's, they are moving to the front of the Capitola Mall at end of Nov 2025.) It was affordable, nice intimate size & your parking is right in front but protected from the street. Not to throw shade, but our son used to work at the Dream Inn and said this was so much better. They were delighted. Also, a shout out to Ben at the front desk, who is also a true gem! read more

Clean, comfortable, quiet, spacious, heated bathroom floors, nice bath, big beds, free snacks, tea and coffee in room, daily cleaning, nice staff, and close to beach on east side. read more

I recently stayed here for a short vacation with my little family. I noticed that this place has recently been upgraded. And I loved it. The rooms were big and modern. It is a self check in which made things really easy for checking in. One thing I will say the I had bad service and took me a while for the email with the code to the door to load. That is a small detail and still would say it is a great place to stay. read more

This is a clean well-lighted places in a nice neighborhood near the beach and local restaurants. The neighborhood is quiet, beautiful and only 2 blocks from Twin Lakes State Beach at Black's Beach. Arvanista, a half block away served a great breakfast (traditional and Mexican). Ben, the host at Bella Notte, was friendly and helpful. A total good experience. It's less than 3/4ths mile from the Crow's Nest restaurant on the harbor. read more

This was the most lovely hotel experience ever - I was so completely happy with my stay. Here are a few reasons why: - The room was gorgeous - like an Italian villa. - The bed was the most comfortable hotel bed I have ever slept in. - The temperature was perfect in the room. - I slept like a log - I am such a light sleeper but there wasn't any noise to wake me up - it was wonderful and peaceful. - They have Peet's Coffee and real half and half - you can even make yourself a cappuccino in the room if you want to! - The bathroom tile was HEATED - OMG, what a delight! - I loved that the shower curtain bar was curved which made the shower very roomy and I loved that there was a shelf for your belongings that was at the perfect level while you are standing in the shower. - I loved too that the night stands by the bed had plenty of plugs - no hunting around the floor or behind walls for them! - The gentleman at the front desk (Ben?) could not have been kinder - he pointed out to us all the local points of interest and was very welcoming. - The Windmill Cafe just steps from the hotel has the most DELICIOUS breakfast ever - and they have gluten-free waffles that are out of this world!! - The room was spotless. - The chaise lounge was luxurious - I stared up at the beautiful chandelier and enjoyed my vacation. Thank you Bella Notte!! read more

Bella Notte - Sorry I didn't make my bed for the photo! : ) - Hotels Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

Nothing bad to say about the Bella Notte Inn. We stayed here (with kids) for one night. Booked on Priceline and got an ADA room which is extra big! Lots of room, decent sized bathroom, big shower, drink fridge, and continental breakfast included. Beds are quite comfortable. Water pressure good. The room was VERY clean. Check in was very easy and the front desk clerk reminded us we can walk a block down the street to the beach front and watch the sunset. Instead the kids played in the surf and then we walked back. Within a block is a Starbucks, Italian restaurant (review later), pizza joint, and a little market. The boardwalk is about a 10 min drive. All in all, I recommend this lovely inn. Check out the prices on priceline first and then go enjoy Santa Cruz which is an awesome little town. xx read more

We loved our stay at Bella Notte in March 2024. It is a great location - you can walk to the ocean easily from the hotel (right across the street through a neighborhood) and there is an easily accesible public beach just about 1/2 mile away. There is a brewery walking distance and the Windmill Cafe a few doors down was great for breakfast. The man at the desk, Ben was very helpful. The rooms were spacious, had a mini-fridge, microwave and free snacks and water. Would stay again! read more

Our favorite, our home away from home. We only stay here when we come, comfortable beds and spacious rooms. You don't feel like you're staying at a hotel at all. read more

I like front desk guy, he's a resident caretaker and very hospitable, friendly and welcoming. Fun and interesting to talk to as well. Luxe sheet, bed and heated bathroom floors. Excellent location: walk to Farmers Market next door and the beach almost in view. If you've been to Europe, they nailed the general European feel to the rooms and property, a bit of Italy. European business traveler let's say, very endearing and nostalgic for me. They are also very generous with the complimentary goodies & sparking water in the lobby. Classy! read more

I stayed here for a couple of days to get outta sac and go shopping for a kayak and a paddle board. For a small hotel this place is luxurious with a capital L. They even got heated marble floors yO! They are a little on the pricey side however sometimes you have to pay extra for the creature comforts. I would highly recommend this place to anyone that is staying in Santa Cruz and doesn't want all the traffic that comes with large hotels. read more

See all

We stayed two nights Sat & Sunday. It is a very clean and well maintained hotel. I recommend a room upstairs as on the second night we had people above us and they made a lot of noise. Otherwise it was a very quiet weekend. The floors are heated in the bathrooms, and they are very clean. Too bad the windows don't open, but that's a minor inconvenience. The staff was very nice and helpful. Thank you. read more

My boyfriend and I had a little getaway and I booked a room 2 weeks ago. I was very impressed. The room is huge! They supply you with two robes, extra pillows and a walk in closet! It had a huge bathroom and shower as well! This is by far the best hotel I stayed in in Santa Cruz and at an affordable decent price. Oh it had a fireplace and a wet bar as well. The service was great and the older gentlemen at the front desk was very helpful with restaurants and site seeing. I would totally recommend this place to anyone. It was very close to everything and it had Free Wi-Fi too haha. read more

See all

Absolutely beautiful place. We booked a room, last minute mind you, for two nights, Carol was very helpful. Because we waited until the last minute, we were only able to stay one night instead because our dogsitting plans fell through and we did not want to leave my pet alone, especially on the fourth of July (loud fireworks). Anyway, they changed our reservations to one night and did not charge us for the extra night, which they did not have to do. Luckily it was the fourth of July and they were able to book our room. It is a quaint place and very clean. Our room had, heated bathroom floors, fridge, wet bar, IPod dock, flat screen with Directv, and a walk in closet w/a safe. They provided breakfast which included, bacon, sausage, potatoes, eggs, toast, english muffins, yogurt, fresh fruit and granola and more. Twin Lakes beach is within walking distance. This will definitely be our go to place in Santa Cruz. read more

See all

Bella Notte is a quant Italian Hotel! Great customer service- parking by your room- the most comfortable bed ever in my travels- heated bathroom floor- shower/jet spa tub- great layout for the room. Amenities breakfast. Loved it . highly recommend. Safe quiet- a diamond in the rough. Excellent read more

Bella Notte - Their flowers are beautiful - Hotels Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS PLACE! I stayed here for one night, saturday of memorial day weekend. As I arrived, I was greeted in a friendly matter. I asked the front desk person, for reccommandations on where to eat and what's the must see in santa cruz. He was super helpful. As I entered my room, I loved everything abt it especially the heated floors in the restroom! The bed was comfy. The room was pretty huge. Good closet space! There are tons of storage compartments to put ur stuff in! A refridgerator with 2 FREE bottle waters! and free wi-fi! I'm most def staying here again! read more

See all

Room was large, enjoyed the vaulted ceilings. Found a few stains on the linens was disappointing, considering the rate. Tv wasn't working properly had to call the front desk agent to come fix . It would of been helpful if I was advised that the bathroom light is on a timer, I ended up screaming during my shower because the lights turned off! Thoroughly enjoyed the faux fireplace that was totally cute. read more

Bella Notte - Hotels Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

Stayed here for our Anniversary and it was beautiful! Close walk to beach and restaurants. This place is very clean, organized and quiet. The staff is very nice and following all Covid-19 protocals. I highly recommend! Thank you christy for your hospitality read more

Loved my stay! Very cute, clean room. I loved the heated bathroom floor as well!! Perfect location and the front desk staff was very friendly and accommodating. read more

This is a super clean, well-maintained, family-run hotel, easy walking distance to beautiful Twin Lakes beach. I was worried about the street noise, but the double windows kept the room totally peaceful. The room itself was spacious, with tons of counter space, comfy beds, and a nice big bathroom. Super friendly management - we chatted and they shared that everyone from the housekeeper to maintenance are relatives in the same family - so cool! The love really shows. And my kid really appreciated how free they were with snacks in the lobby - full-size Snickers bars, water bottles, Pringle's, Nutella, cereal...! Lots of flowers outside and one little table where you can eat your takeout meals. Would definitely stay here again. read more

This place checked all the boxes. Super friendly staff, nice, clean, comfortable rooms, free water and drinks, and a really big bath with jets. The parking was right in front. A big plus is that you can walk to the beach from there. It was a great experience. read more

I booked this place last minute on booking.com. The reviews from the website drew me in. On arrival I was greeted by the friendly lady behind the desk. I didn't catch her name but the customer service was amazing! She was very friendly and informative. As an essential worker who has to be out and about due to my work, I was very pleased to hear about how Bella Notte is working very hard to sanitize the rooms and lobby. I highly recommend this place!! read more

The room is extremely nice, just wish there was a microwave (but literally perfect besides that) ,the bubble tub will fit 2. And the service is the best and friendliest we've had read more

I was always raised to believe that bigger is better when it comes to traveling. You're supposed to stay in the biggest hotels, with the nicest views and usually the highest price tags. As I get older and start to travel on my own, I have learned that off the beaten path is a little more my style. Belle Notte was definitely my style, off the beaten path and hardly anyone around. On my recent overnight get away to a place I have gone to at least once a year since I was a young teen; Santa Cruz, CA This hotel is about a 5-10 min drive from everywhere I wanted to go and the best part was if you walk across the street and go down the neighborhood street, you will run smack dab into a private beach that I fell in love with. Midnight walk and morning scavenging ensued during my stay here and I was so happy that there were very few people who had the same idea as my friends and I. The people working at Bella Notte were all very nice and helpful whenever we had a question or came to chat while eating what they called a continental breakfast. It is nothing special which is fine, but when you are paying a pretty little price for a hotel and it says they are serving a continental breakfast you expect a little more than a package of instant oatmeal and bagels. They did have a small fridge that contained bottles of apple and orange juice which I took and turned into a morning mimosa from what I had contained upstairs in my own little mini bar. Room 10, decorated a little like a home-y apartment the room was large and clean. I have never in my life felt more comfortable being barefoot on the floors and safe to sit on the oh so soft beds. With a remote controlled fireplace and heated bathroom floors you feel like the price tag was sorta worth it. The room also has a binder of the different restaurants. If you are a drunken foodie like myself and stay awake past 9pm then you really want to look the number of the pizza place that is listed in the binder because that is the only thing that was open after 9pm on a Tuesday night. THANK GOD! Will I come back to Bella Notte? Yes. Because it wasn't close to a million other people vacationing, had a bunch of good places to walk to and eat and of course, that local beach. I do wish they would come down a little on prices, although to be fair, I did get their most expensive room, and get a better breakfast or at the very least, don't say continental breakfast. Say something like "We have stuff to eat if you are starving." read more

My wife and I went to SC last weekend to celebrate our 10 year anniversary. The initial plan was to get a room at one of the beachfront hotels by the boardwalk, but unfortunately none of them could accommodate the nights we needed. This led us to Yelp, where we found the Bella Notte. What a pleasant surprise! The room was huge, bed extremely comfortable and all the amenities were top quality. From the heated tile floors in the bathroom, to the in-room "electric" fireplace, we were very pleased with the accommodations. In addition to the tangibles, the service was exemplary as well. Upon booking, I informed them that we intended to celebrate our anniversary and when we opened the door to our room, we were surprised to see rose petals sprinkled everywhere and chocolate truffles on the bedside table. Very nice touch! I will admit, the exterior(although tastefully decorated) gives the appearance of a standard "L-shaped" motel, but who stands in the parking lot staring at their hotel anyway? The quality of the interior of the rooms far outweighs the lack of flash of the exterior. Also, the location is very quiet, which is nice. Thanks again Bella Notte! We'll be back! read more

I'm kind of torn about Bella Notte. The room was really nice (looked exactly like the pictures on their website): big room with a soft king bed, okay sized bathroom with heated floors and a large bathtub, large walk-in closet with bathrobes, flip flops and a safe, flat screen TV with satellite and DVD player and mini fridge. On the other hand, the continental breakfast and customer service were mediocre. And with such a large price tag, I really expect something to go above and beyond. It was a decent place to stay but I don't think I'll be returning. There are TONS of hotels in Santa Cruz, and while many are expensive, I think I'll shop around a little more next time. For $250 plus tax, I expect something a little more than an unfriendly guy behind the counter and a packet of Quaker's instant oatmeal for breakfast. Oh and here's a tip: bring your own pillow because theirs are ridiculously squishy. read more

Small nicely appointed B & B. Stayed in room 9 which is very large. One thing that is missing is a microwave. There is a large beverage refrig but the way it is set up you can't chill a bottle standing up so you have to have the right stopper for an open bottle of wine. Large bathroom. Comfy bed. Heated bathroom floor tiles. 2 blocks from the beach. Full breakfast in the morning. Friendly staff. read more

This is a much nicer place than I had anticipated. We hadn't planned our hotel on purpose, but we ended up not finding anything til the last moment. But what a choice! Close to one of my favorite views of Santa Cruz (down the hill looking over Twin Lakes toward the harbor), this is next to the old chocolate store with the windmill. It's really pretty, inside and out. They have done an excellent job of decorating and making it warm and inviting. The rooms are surprisingly large. Really nice for a hotel, especially the bathroom. Not at all a cramped feeling. You can spread out and relax. There is a great fridge and sink in the room, so you can keep some food and drinks in there, which was really nice. The bed was large and mostly comfy, but a little firmer than I like. The linens were soft and cozy. The bathroom had heated floors - so awesome! I wished the entire room had the, but it was pretty awesome in the bathroom. The entire room could use better soundproofing. There was a lack of soundproofing between the bathroom and the main room, but also a bit between the room and the outside, and perhaps most annoying was how loud the water pipes were from other rooms. It woke us up in the morning when someone upstairs was showering. But, all in all, the noises did not detract more than everything else shined. I would absolutely recommend this hotel. read more

We had such a wonderful weekend getaway at Bella Notte! The decor was beautiful and rustic, the staff were incredibly accommodating, and the location near the beach and restaurants could not be better. Joe at the front desk was especially helpful and kind. We will definitely be returning here the next time we stay in Santa Cruz. read more

Okay 3.5 stars. Positives: Room was not tiny, good size, fireplace, walk in closet, free bottled water, free WiFi, sink outside the bathroom. Bet was not to bad. People were great. Free breakfast. Housekeeping did good as well, Neutrals: I didn't do good due diligence. Since you pick your own room and the one I picked was upstairs, I didn't look that there was no elevator. My fault. And I don't do stairs well anymore. No place close buy to eat with much choices. Not much parking. Negatives: And this is a HUGE one. The 'desk' area is a lowered area in the counter by the sink and chest of drawers, and TV. Like most, it's too tall for me. I've learned to make due. However, the chair was built for the jolly green giant. When I sat in it, not only did my feet not hit the floor, but it would take 2 pillows to even come close to having any back support. I felt like Lily Tomlin in the old laugh in shows. At one point, my back was spasaming so bad that I was almost in. Tears and had to go lay down. Felt like a knife was being jabbed in it. (Like most people I often have business to do online when I travel or at least email to check). I could not stay here again and risk real damage to my body. read more

Best place in Santa Cruz. Fluffy robes and heated bathroom tiles greet you. It's like staying at a wealthy friend's French cottage. Very cute exterior with little benches and outdoor tables for you to sit at while drinking coffee and admiring the ocean. Free nice catered breakfast just like what a friend would make you. I had eggs and strawberries with jasmine yumi tea. I ate it sitting on the most comfy large upholstered armchair in their breakfast area. Free bottled water in the rooms of course. Nice body wash, makeup remover etc in the bathrooms that doesn't feel cheap. Best bed ever with very soft warm blankets and an air conditioner above. My boyfriend asked why our home can't be like this. If you are looking for a place to lounge around, this is it. You won't want to leave. read more

See all

I can't say enough good about this sweet little boutique hotel. Seems a world away from the typical boardwalk hotels. Very upscale and quiet. Grounds have beautiful landscaping with areas to sit and enjoy. Close well lit parking. We stayed in the largest upstairs room. Super cute with kitchenette and faux fireplace. Nice large bathroom with heated floors and upgraded toiletries. Awesome warm fluffy white robes come in each room. They offer light breakfast in the lobby and the receptionist was nice enough to let me print tickets for the roaring camp railroad trip we booked that day. Service was amazing and cleaning people were never seen but everything was always clean! The price was very reasonable for the area. Within walking distance to an amazing Italian restaurant and the beach. Will return again when back in the Santa Cruz area. read more

See all

This review is for their service. This might sound strange, but we've never stayed at Bella Notte. I'm writing this review because, after working with the gal in the front office, I cannot wait to stay here. We had a get-away weekend over labor day - our first time away from both kids - and no one had a room. When we popped into Bella Notte, they didn't have a room either but the gal at the front desk literally spent a half-hour calling other hotels on our behalf just to try and help us find something. She didn't have to help us like that (no other hotels would do this - in fact, other places seemed overjoyed to tell us they had no rooms) but we were so grateful. We did end up finding a place because of her effort, and this new mom of two will always be very grateful. read more

We chose the Bella Notte in room #10 for a quick getaway from the kids for three days in late July. I have to say that overall it was a very pleasant experience and we'd choose to go back again if we find ourselves in the same situation. Normally we like to rent a house on the beach for a week with the family but this was just a quick three days for the two of us. I guess technically the place is a motel as all rooms are entered from the outside, but it didn't feel like a motel. The staff was very friendly and the complimentary hot breakfast was tasty enough with eggs, bacon, fruit and the assorted cereals and teas. Our room was located on the second floor and at one end of the property. I'd say it was awesome. There were double sets of windows to cancel out the roadway noise that seems a bit excessive for the amount of traffic going by- but that's in all of the Santa Cruz area (something to do with the way the streets are paved we thought). We had vaulted ceilings and a comfortable bed. The bathroom was also large and nicely decorated. I appreciated the make-up remover towelettes, plush robes, and the complimentary water bottles. The location was pretty perfect for us as it seemed to be right in the middle of Santa Cruz and Capitola. My husband and I prefer to walk or bike and we were able to walk nearly everywhere we wanted to go. The beach was just a couple blocks away down a residential street and I actually like how much less crowed it was than both Santa Cruz and Capitola. It was truly lovely and so close. The only complaint we had- which we communicated to staff upon checking out and the reason for the 4 star review- was with the mini-fridge or beverage cooler that was in the room. Upon check-in we were warned that sometimes the units would hum and to turn the knob until the humming sound stopped. It was even a bullet point on the little info sheet we were given with our room keys. I'm not exaggerating when I say that at 3:30 in the morning on the second night we were jolted out of bed by this ridiculously loud noise I can only describe as being akin to the use of a weed whacker! So there we were in the dead of night turning the knob and it wouldn't turn off! We ended up just unplugging it from the wall because we couldn't get the noise to stop at any setting. But like I said above, we really only had the one complaint and it won't stop us from returning. Next time though, I think we will just unplug it from the start (unless they tell us all the fridges have been replaced)! In my humble opinion, I think it would be a small investment for the owners and make the Bella Notte a real find. read more

I very much enjoyed my stay here. The highlights: I accidently booked the wrong month and, in response to the "you didn't show up but we have to charge you anyway" email they sent me, I admitted my mistake and asked for a refund and a rebooking. they gave me both. Such awesome customer service, especially as my mistake had the potential to cost them money. The bed was huge! The tub was huge! The wet bar, a nice touch. Breakfast was awesome. A step above your typical hotel continental spread. There were fresh berries and fat free yogurt, which is what I had. I brought my own soy milk for my coffee. The one thing I wish was different is that the bedding smelled as if it was washed in scented detergent, which added to a headache I already had and meant I woke up with my eyes all swollen. There are several restaurants in walking distance, which is very convenient. read more

I had the good fortune to stay here for 2 nights during a period when I was invited to speak at UCSC. Guest services/customer service is warm, friendly and efficient. My room was spacious and relaxing. Breakfast was yummy with many options. Just a walk to the beach and good restaurants in the area. Check out the Windmill for gluten-free desserts and more. I look forward to returning here! read more

Rating 4.5 stars. Wife ( 8 months pregnant) and I wanted a two night quick getaway before the baby is due and decided to stay here based on reviews. Overall this is a great place and it's a great value. Unfortunately we only stayed one night b/c the wife hurt her back and also got sick so the next morning at 8 am we packed up the car and went into the office to explain our situation. The guy was really nice about it and said no problem they won't charge the second night, which they definitely didn't have to do since it was technically our fault/responsibility. It's really not that far from the boardwalk and honestly I preferred that it was slightly off the beaten path. Not to mention, a really nice beach is within walking distance and less than 5 minutes away. If an 8 month pregnant woman can do it, then almost anyone can. Room was nice and updated and for the price point it's as good as it gets for Santa Cruz. The fridge was huge. They gave us a microwave for free upon request. It's well lit at night and it's easy to get in/out of the parking lot (especially compared to other parts of the city). There isn't any area for .5 star deduction, but the reason for it was noise. Specifically the a/c heater unit was making a clicking sound for more than an hour, even after it was unplugged. You're fairly close to the road but unless you have the window open, the road/traffic noise isn't a big deal. I use earplugs and didn't hear any noise whatsoever (clicking sound drove the wife nuts for 1-2 hours). If the clicking issue is the biggest/only gripe, then I definitely would say this was a good overall visit. If we come back to Santa Cruz, this is most likely where we'll be staying again. read more