Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

We stayed for just a night. The price was worth it. The breakfast only had a few options but that was okay. The room was clean and the front desk lady was nice.

The rooms are small, but well-appointed w/ new linens, throw pillows, plenty of sleeping pillows, desk, plenty of outlets for your electronics . I would stay here again. I asked for an extra blanket & it was provided right away. Fridge & microwave made it easy to eat restaurant leftovers & front desk happy to provide paper plates & utensils. Front desk staff is shy but kind. Given the proximity to the beach, The reason they don't command a higher rate is probably that they don't have an ocean view or have a internal lobby or common areas--Wyndam has taken over a former motel-style property. But it really is a pleasant facility.

The shore side of the facility is great: minutes by foot to the wharf and the scenic part of West Cliff drive. The inland side appears to have a fair amount of homeless living on the corners and in the alleys For this reason, I, as a solo traveler, did not feel great about walking around after dark. It might have been different in warm weather when there was more activity after dark. Businesses in this area shut up early in the evening.

Facilities were very clean! Breakfast was good, waffle maker was a big plus! Staff was courteous, younger man who handled the check in was amazing! Super friendly & helpful with dining & activity suggestions! Will definitely stay again in future.

This part of Santa Cruz is a little questionable & saw a few homeless people set up in the surrounding streets.