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    Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

    3.6 (122 reviews)
    ModerateHotels
    Open Open 24 hours

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    Eric T.

    Nice affordable hotel very close to the downtown area and central to everything. Although the hotel is on the main strip the entrance is on the back of a side street. Plenty of parking but no on premise EV chargers. Hotel has nice big open lobby area. Morning free breakfast was simple and hearty but in all's fairness don't expect gourmet and the staff do their best to keep everything replenish. The hotel rooms were nice, spacious and clean. The shower faucet was a bit finicky and take time to get the water temperature right. Bed was clean and comfy but the pillows were a bit flat for my head. Overall this is a great hotel at a budget price; a definite bookmark for future stays!

    Eugene A.

    My mom and I stayed overnight at Fairfield Inn Santa Cruz. The check-in process was smooth as I presented my ID and reservation at the front desk. Our room size was slightly smaller than expected, and maybe we'll opt for a larger room on our next stay. On the bright side, the window, sliding door and balcony overlooking the Pacific Ocean was an advantage. The bed was comfortable, bathroom was clean and modern and the TV is updated and capable of streaming (using your own subscriptions). I am also fond of the air conditioner/heater/fan trio, microwave and mini fridge inside our room. There is also plenty of complimentary parking spaces available on their lot. On the next day, we ate breakfast at the lobby. Complimentary breakfast is served from 7am-10am on weekends and 6:30am-9:30am on weekdays. We opted for their mini waffles, with some scrambled eggs and turkey patties. The scrambled eggs were fluffy, while the turkey patties were quite juicy. The waffles were crunchy, warm yet soft at the same time. It was well-paired with sliced strawberries and breakfast syrup. Overall, I am impressed with my stay at Fairfield Inn and will likely return here on my next stay in Santa Cruz.

    Nichole R.

    We had a great, quick stay at Fairfield Inn. When we checked in the lady said we got her favorite room, 413, and it was really was a nice room. 1 king and 1 couch pull out bed, we slept comfortably, though if my kids were any older they might not be as thrilled with there couch bed. The balcony was nice, we got to see the ocean and kept the door open majority of the time for fresh air. It was such a quiet stay, probably the most quiet hotel stay we've ever had. The room appeared well kept, clean, and everything was in good working order. The breakfast was solid with decent options each day. From yogurt and oatmeal to eggs and bacon, or my families personal favorite, the waffles! Our only drawbacks were that parking can be a nightmare, or maybe it was just because it's a holiday weekend, but the spots are tight and it appears people really don't mind occupying multiple spaces. Also the kids were bummed that the pool and hot tub were out of service. I would definitely stay here again!

    Oh my God I match my $9 tote.
    Scott H.

    Pleasantly happy to give a five-star review. My stay was fantastic. The room was comfortable, and there was even a view from the fourth floor. Way off in the distance I could see the ocean. I was able to work remotely including doing a 1 hour video webinar from the lobby. The workout room is small but well equipped. The pool water temperature is perfect given the ambient air temperature, around 55°. And the hot tub, although the Jets were not functional, was also clean and warm. Staff were friendly. Plenty of free parking. The only issue, and it really wasn't much of an issue for me, the high school adjacent to the hotel produces a line of cars about 1 mi long during pickup in the afternoon. The drivers completely block the road requiring you to drive on the opposite side of the road for as long as a mile to get to the hotel. If you did not know this was a line of parents waiting to pick up kids, you might be inclined to wait in line thinking there was a traffic disaster up ahead. I wish Santa Cruz police would require an alternate plan for parents picking up kids. This hotel is not centrally located, and there really isn't anything within walking distance. If you don't have a car you will definitely be taking Uber, even if you want to go to 7-Eleven. If you're in Santa Cruz on business, or you've come here to go hiking, this is a great location because you're going to have to drive anyway.

    Outside - glad they have a huge, free outdoor self parking lot.
    Daniel C.

    Our first family vacation with our 3yo was Santa Cruz during Memorial Day Weekend. I booked Fairfield Inn on Mission using Hotels.com after doing some research. Being unfamiliar with Santa Cruz, I wanted a family-friendly hotel that was clean, quiet, and away from the hustle-and-bustle of the touristy spots like the Boardwalk. Also, if I'm paying premium hotel rates for the holiday weekend, I avoid places with daily parking rates or ridiculous valet parking. Fairfield Inn has exceeded by expectations. It had all the things I liked about Marriott brands and then some: 1. Free, plentiful outdoor parking. 2. Big, clean rooms with two queen beds with firm mattress and soft pillows. Our 3yo slept like a rock both nights. 3. Decent, free breakfast buffet with occasional gourmet premade breakfast sandwiches like gouda-egg-black forest ham sammies and spinach quiche. You can get a nice blueberry compote with fresh, little spheres of blueberries on your waffle. 4. Free and fast wifi 5. Powerful shower and generally clean bathrooms 6. Easy access to Natural Bridges Beach, Boardwalk / Wharf, and Downtown. 7. There's no easy changing table for babies so you can use the desk which is pretty good sized. Just bring a soft pad - works perfectly. 8. Decent small beer fridge that can keep a half gallon of milk cold. Note: it may be one of those COVID rules but there's no daily housekeeping if your stay is 2 days or less. Still, we left a generous room tip since we need to dispose of diapers somewhere.

    Jamie S.

    This hotel gets a 2 star review from me because of the cleanliness of the room. However everything else was a grave disappointment. Yes they serve a free breakfast but the staff are unfriendly. I understand not having the ability to give me a late check out, but being unwilling to store my luggage either isn't exactly friendly. The front desk staff laughed at the fact that their pool is cold and not kept up. This morning the front desk staff were not accommodating to folks checking in. I'm not staying here again and recommend that anyone reading this doesn't either. Never staying here again. Oh did I mention that their front desk staff is totally correct, the pool isn't cleaned so if you want dirt and grime in your face while you swim please do use their pool.

    More of the room
    Angie R.

    My sisters, two nieces, bro in law, the dude and I came here for a getaway weekend to beat the heat during Fathers Day weekend 2021. Upon arrival we didn't have any issue checking in which it just took forever due to only having one person on staff. It took about 30 to 40 min. By the time we were done checking in there were so many angry people waiting longer than us and I honestly felt bad for the new girl who was totally new to the job (her third day and they had her working by herself). Someone should give her a promotion. The location of the hotel felt we were in the boonies as it was a struggle to get Ubers or Lyfts to come get us. We were about a mile or more away from the Board walk but a lot of drivers didn't want to venture to our location which was a bummer. We were about 8 min or less away from everything which was nice. The hotel itself was beautiful and spacious. My sisters and nieces along with brother in law swan in the pool which is to be reserved. The free breakfast was alright. The experience was disappointing. The grown ups didn't like the location, the elevators were not working properly and they need more staff. Our experience was not the worse nor was the best. Compared to the other vacationers were got lucky as they had so many complaints. I personally would not stay here at this hotel, location is too far for Uber and Lyft drivers (it took two hours to secure ONE and we needed two). Hopefully they get their staff issue under control. The woman handled it well but if she was busy it would be a long wait. So ridiculous they have her alone. I'm not faulting they worker but the hotel. Father Day weekend was a very busy weekend and they should have prepared with more staff than just have one person checking everyone in, trouble shooting, refreshing the place, clean, etc A part of me wanted to roll up my sleeves and help the poor girl and provide some relief. Overall, we will not be coming back. You may love it but we didn't. Definitely beautiful inside and out but it needs improvement on logistics, hospitality and more staff!

    Lobby
    Nanci M.

    What a wonderful gem. We have stayed here before and find it very convenient and close to all the attractions. The rooms are very clean and smell great. Jana and Erin were working the front desk and were super nice and helpful. We will be back. Thank you.

    Bedroom area (we had laid down on the sheets, so yes, it's wrinkled - upon check in, all was immaculate).

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    8 months ago

    We stayed one night while traveling up the coast. The room was clean and friendly staff.

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    3 years ago

    Clean, spacious and quiet! Location about 5 min drive to the Boardwalk. Also about 10 minute drive to UC Santa Cruz.

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    Page 1 of 4

    Ask the Community - Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

    Review Highlights - Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

    Charles is an outstanding employee and made my overall experience at the Fairfield inn such a delight so far.

    Mentioned in 14 reviews

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    Dream Inn - Merch zone, but no prices listed on the items | June 2024

    Dream Inn

    (944 reviews)

    $$$

    I've been wanting to give the Dream Inn a go for a long while. Recently, all of the parts fell into…read moreplace to host our program retreat here ~ and I'm so glad we did! It was just perfect for our small staff gathering, with their Cove Meeting Room right off their on-site restaurant, Jack O'Neill, and the package with breakfast, lunch, beverages and snacks along with the meeting room all included. The rooms are comfortable and every one of them has a wonderful view of the beach and Santa Cruz Wharf (and the Boardwalk a bit farther away down the beach). Love that they offer a complimentary selection of e-books, audio books, meditations and podcasts (QR code to scan right on the bedside table) and that they've eliminated all single-use plastic water bottles on their property. The weather was perfect during our visit in early February. Staff were all friendly and helpful ~ special shout outs to Elaine and Shannon for all of their help leading up to our stay. Would return in a heartbeat!

    Great location with ocean views from every room. However, was disappointed that they play…read morepop-style music over the pool area until well into the night and have back hotel lights glaring. I had to close my patio window and curtains and try to drown out the sound and light until they turned it off (was maybe on until 10pm or later? - not sure) and then I could finally listen to the beach waves crashing. Really wasn't the vibe I wanted. I also couldn't figure out how to run my shower without getting the entire bathroom soaked- including the clothes I brought inside that I had planned to change into. Aside from that they allowed me to check-in early (no extra fee) which was appreciated and they have convenient outside hotel parking (extra fee) that is easily accessible across the street.

    Beach Street Inn and Suites - View from "shared" patio

    Beach Street Inn and Suites

    (327 reviews)

    $$$

    Great ocean view and an unbeatable location, right across from the beach, within walking distance…read moreto the pier and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Super convenient for everything. The service was excellent as well. They offer complimentary hot chocolate, snow cones, popcorn, coffee, and tea for both kids and adults, which was a really nice touch. Would definitely come back!

    Do you enjoy feeling like a prisoner on your own vacation? Then this is the place for you…read more There is a certain point in the night where you cannot get out or in without checking in with the front desk. Not even walking. You rent this hotel to be on the beach but you will not have the ability to leave the premises, even just on foot to walk the beach, without checking in and out with the front desk due to the fencing and gates. This is not clearly disclosed during booking or check-in. I personally don't appreciate this. You also have to pay close attention to the fact that parking is not included in the price of the hotel, so expect to pay an additional $25 in parking when you arrive and factor that in to your consideration of what hotels actually cost comparatively. Knowing this, I may have gone with another, potentially nicer option that just included parking in the total fee because yes, people are traveling and are going to need a place to park. In the most touristy spot of the entire area and they say "will you be parking with us today?" Ummm yeah, kinda duh. Not the end of the world or a deal breaker but just additive when you specifically look for a place with a hot tub. The hot tub needs repair. The 'flooring' is very worn and dirty and the hot tub temp max is fairly low. It's doesn't get relatively 'hot.' Mostly clean. Kind of cute, but just realistically not what you think you are getting.

    Pacific Blue Inn - Fire pit

    Pacific Blue Inn

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    $$

    Made reservations and let them know we would be arriving after about 7 or 8 pm. They said late…read morecheck ins are no problem, we just need to call a # for entry as they lock up the lobby and leave at a certain time. We arrived and saw the paper on the front entrance with the number to call for entry.... no answer. We texted and called numerous times, all while standing outside in the dark. We never got in. Had to find a hotel last minute, which we did, thankfully! The following week, I got a text with no apology or no reason as to what happened- just a short text saying " we will refund you". Would never reserve a room here or attempt tp stay again. TERRIBLE customer service.

    My wife surprised me and booked us a trip to Santa Cruz for my 40th birthday. We stayed at the…read morePacific Blue In and we both really enjoyed it. The room was small, but the bed was super cozy and I really loved the bathroom with open concept shower. The room had a window AC unit and a fan, which we really didn't need because the weather in Santa Cruz is basically perfect. This hotel is within walking distance to the beach, a gorgeous wine bar, amazing local food spots, coffee shops, and downtown Santa Cruz. In fact, during our last night here we walked all over downtown Santa Cruz grabbed a drink and some ice cream and felt 100% safe doing so. They don't offer room service, as this is a very small mom and pop style hotel, but I believe they do have a kitchen? I kept smelling food, but couldn't figure out where it was coming from. The staff here is awesome and really made our trip special. My wife was able to coordinate with Alondra, in the front office, and she set up a 40th birthday surprise cake and balloons in our room before we got there. It was awesome! I can definitely see us returning to this hotel for our next Santa Cruz visit.

    West Cliff Inn, A Four Sisters Inn

    West Cliff Inn, A Four Sisters Inn

    (144 reviews)

    $$$

    I can't say enough about this place!…read more Mary our hostess was so nice welcoming and helpful. She made us feel like we were staying at a friend's house. Our room had an incredible view. I can't believe the description was a partial view. It definitely was more than a partial view. We had a soaking tub with whirlpool jets. A king size bed and a fireplace. A miniature refrigerator, and bathrobes to use while we were there. They have a wine and cheese hour from 4:30-5:30 every evening and it also had chocolate chip cookies and veggie tray. The breakfast in the morning was so delicious with an assortment of breads, homemade granola and muesli, fresh fruit, quiche and fresh baked cake (lemon, banana, and blueberry were the flavors the days we stayed). The location is walking distance to the pier, boardwalk, and downtown. Depending on how far you like walking we walked to Natural Bridge State Park and it was 2.7 miles. The view along the way is spectacular

    We stayed at West Cliff Inn a week ago and were surprised to find it didn't have air conditioning…read morewhich means we had to choose to either be way to hot or leave the windows open and it be loud and bright. So while the beds were comfortable we didn't sleep at all while we were there. Proximity to the beach, Ward and board walk are amazing. However, someone did break into our rental car and steal $250 from our golf bag. That's our bad for leaving clubs in the car but it is a bummer that the facilities are not secure in any way. The breakfast is just a continental breakfast and is over marketed as something much fancier and one of the staff told me the wine and cheese is just from Costco so not local pairings as I would have expected. Overall, it was advertised as a boutique experience but really it was pretty generic and just over priced for the location.

    Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola - 7/21/25 FYI. Good size room.

    Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

    (243 reviews)

    $$

    I gotta say first impression after checking in I was very disappointed with the staff at the front…read morecounter. I saw there was a lady named Alex who didn't check us in but was behind the desk along with the man who actually checked us in and he gave me ZERO information. I got the impression I interrupted their conversation when I came up the stairs and the whole time checking in was slightly uncomfortable because the lack of information I got. I was expecting breakfast is served from this time to this time. Pool hours are blah blah WiFi info. SOMETHING!! Come on.. All I got was what card do you want to use enter it here, then here's 2 keys and park in garage. I had to ask where the garage was that's how bad this guy did with checking me in. After we checked in and got to the room it was nice my kids got a kick out the small balcony we stayed on the second floor. The staff that served breakfast and room service did amazing. They greeted us every time we crossed paths with a good morning, or enjoy your day. It definitely made up for the lack of customer service at the front desk. We stayed 2 nights and over all the location was PERFECT. Everything you could need in walking distance. We drove to the civic auditorium and the boardwalk both took just a 15 min drive from the hotel. I drive a Nissan armada and the parking was tight getting in and out but doable if you're a good driver, lol. I noticed upon leaving people just left the luggage cart in the garage after loading their car shame on them because traveling with my 4 kids I was thinking people actually returned these when they finished. Nope, they don't so don't wait around for one just look in the garage.

    I needed an inexpensive hotel in the area this one is a good choice. It's not far from the…read moreCapitola downtown beach and close to Santa Cruz. Simple and clean. They have an underground parking garage and a breakfast buffet is included that has scrambled eggs, waffles, oatmeal and more.

    Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

    Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

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    Every stay, Hotel Paradox has made our mini vacation amazing…read more Rooms are "beach chic" with soft cotton linens, a roomy glass shower with pebbled floor, British luxury brand Gilcrest & Soames bath products and rooms terraced overlooking the redwoods and the pool. (sometimes a slice of the parking lot, ask for the prettiest view). You cannot beat slipping on your slides and having a very late breakfast overlooking the patio or having an afternoon craft cocktail and poke nachos while poolside. My son's a fan of the tableside s'mores. Come as you are. Hotel Paradox is our place to relax and recharge.

    The front desk manager on Wednesday, May 20th, created a very challenging experience at the front…read moredesk. This person was not client-service oriented, and obviously hung up on his title of "manger". The Rough check-in took an unfortunate twist, with me and my partner left, after the chose to cancel our reservation instead of solving a problem, and we found excellent accommodations down the street. People won't always remember a challenging situation, but they will remember how they were made to feel. We will not be returning to Hotel Paradox. I left a full review on Yelp w/more info. If you are looking at your Yelp (3.4) and other reviews, there is opportunity for improvement in guest service. Though we won't say with you again, I hope that my review, allo g with others negative reviews lately, would be looked at with the motive to improve service and solve guest issues, so they leave positive reviews.

    Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - hotels - Updated May 2026

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