Out of all the hotels, motels, hostels, and lodging places I've stayed at over the years, it is…read morequite rare for me give one particular place a perfect five-star rating. Reason being is that most popular point out the negatives over the positives. However, the "Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-Sea Inn & Suites" in Capitola, CA absolutely exceeded my expectations in every way possible. Located directly on 41st Ave and just south of Capitola Ave, this hotel is in prime location with an abundant amount of retail stores and restaurants. Most importantly, it is only about a mile away from the beaches and of course, the Pacific Ocean.
My lady and booked our stay for one night via-Priceline for the night of Friday 9/4/2026. What made this process easy was that I received a text alert saying that I had the option to check in early. Since we arrived around 2pm, we went to the front desk, provided the credit card I would be using, and was good to go. Our guest suite was amazing complete with a king size bed, sectional sofa, desk/study area, large 55" LED TV, spacious closet, mini fridge, microwave, coffeemaker, digital thermostat, fast Wi-Fi, and multiple USB outlets to charge your wireless devices. The blue colored walls and ocean prints also give you that California coast feeling, a very nice touch. I also wanted to point out that the bathroom also had amazing amenities including various soaps, hand lotions, and even a shower cap complete with lots of towels and wash cloths.
The exterior was equally as impressive. This included a 24-hour fitness center, a heated pool/jacuzzi that is open every day from 10am-10pm (complete with a restroom), an ice machine w/adjacent snack vending machine, and a dedicated breakfast/cafeteria area (that is open daily from 6am-10am). I got to enjoy bacon, over medium eggs, biscuits & gravy, a yogurt parfait, coffee, and juice. They also carry assorted cereals, fruits, a waffle maker, pre-packaged Danishes, bagels, and toasts. Some of the other perks was an amazing waterfall at the front lobby, an onsite washer/dryer, and a dedicated room with local brochures around the Santa Cruz/Monterey area. Finally, the parking lot (which is located at the rear of the hotel) has more than enough parking spaces as well as several charging stations for those that drive an electric vehicle.
One really amazing perk that elevated our entire experience was that we had made reservations for one of Capitola's most well-known and prestigious restaurants, "Shadowbrook". What made this uniquely special was that the staff that work here made special accommodations to have us picked up and taken via-1955 Checker Cab from the hotel to the restaurant! It even drove us back to our hotel when we were done eating our dinner. I will say that this hotel is as good as it gets when it comes to an amazing and memorable experience. We both slept peacefully (as the bed was comfy), the shower worked flawlessly, and most importantly, the staff was very courteous and friendly. I wanted to add that the rate we paid was unbeatable and way better than I had expected. If you ever plan on visiting Santa Cruz or Capitola for business or pleasure, definitely stay at the "Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-Sea Inn & Suites". My rating, a unanimous five stars.