"The location is great literally just outside the boardwalk and can get the broadwalk wristbands alot cheaper from the hotel."
Spencer from United Kingdom
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"Balcony offered fantastic view of the boardwalk."
dominguez8273 from United States
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"Excellent value on the beach."
Fiona from Australia
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Carousel Beach Inn - Beachfront Santa Cruz hotel with ocean views and boardwalk proximity
Located 656.2 ft from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, this Santa Cruz hotel features rooms with private balconies and partial ocean views. Each accommodation includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, microwave, refrigerator, hairdryer, and alarm clock. Select rooms offer spa baths for two or direct views of the amusement park. The Carousel Beach Inn provides free WiFi throughout the property and serves a daily continental breakfast. Vending machines offering snacks and drinks are available on-site, while a 24-hour front desk assists guests. The property sits within walking distance of multiple dining options, including Barbary Coast Restaurant (0.3 miles), Beach Street Cafe (0.3 miles), and Surf City Grill (0.3 miles). Positioned near Cowell Beach and Santa Cruz Wharf, the hotel enables easy access to water sports, fishing, sailing, and state parks. Mineta San Jose International Airport is 34 miles away.
Pros
Walking distance to 8 restaurants within 0.5 miles
Proximity to multiple attractions including Well Within Spa (0.5 miles) and Pacific Garden Mall (1 mile)
Guaranteed check-in available anytime after 3 PM
Area offers cycling and hiking opportunities
Cons
34 miles distance from nearest airport
Limited parking space in beach area during peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day)
“This inn's proximity to the beach and boardwalk is a definite advantage, amplified by the convenience of on-site parking. Rooms are spacious, and families will appreciate the option of two queen beds. For those prioritizing location and value in Santa Cruz, it's a solid choice.”
Charlotte EvansHead of Editorial at Hotelsdowntown
Select room type
Choose from double rooms, family suites, and premium stays. Enjoy breakfast, flexible cancellations, and exclusive deals.
Standard King Room
2 persons
20 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Queen Room Two Queen Beds
2 persons
26 sq. feet
2 King Size Beds
Balcony
Bathtub
room details
King Room
2 persons
26 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Balcony
Bathtub
room details
Check Availability & Prices
Find the best rates for your travel dates now!
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Hotel has comfortable rooms, premium services, and a prime downtown location
Facilities: Great
8.4/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
24-hour reception
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
24-hour security
Lift
Vending machines
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Services
Housekeeping
Room features
Air conditioning
Heating
Patio
Garden furniture
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Media
Flat-screen TV
Show more
Location
110 Riverside Avenue, Santa Cruz, 95060,
Explore Santa Cruz
Experience Santa Cruz
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
13 minutes walking
Iconic amusement park with rides, games, and beaches. Perfect spot for families with a nostalgic boardwalk atmosphere.
Santa Cruz Wharf
13 minutes walking
A lively wharf with beautiful views, shops, and seafood dining. Ideal for observing marine life and enjoying recreational activities.
Museum of Art and History
5-minute drive
Showcasing local art and culture, the museum offers events and engaging exhibits. Free admission on certain days.
Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
5-minute drive
Fascinating exhibits on local ecology and history. Features outdoor trails for nature lovers, including family-friendly activities.
Kayaking at the Wharf
13 minutes walking
Enjoy kayaking with rental services available. Suitable for adventurers seeking a unique perspective of the coast.
Yoga on the Beach
15-minute walk
Join local yoga classes on the beach for relaxation. Check seasonal availability for various sessions throughout the day.
Surf City Grill
3 minutes walking
Casual spot offering burgers, tacos, and local beers. Known for fresh, wholesome ingredients and a friendly atmosphere.
Coaster's Bar and Grill
4 minutes walking
Family-friendly restaurant with a beach vibe. Features seafood, burgers, and an extensive drink menu with ocean views.
Cocoanut Grove
4 minutes walking
Historic venue offering various events, including live music and dance. A vibrant nightlife spot with a beautiful atmosphere.
Boardwalk Bowl
4 minutes walking
Family-friendly bowling alley with arcade games. Perfect for a fun night out with friends or family, accommodating all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
Santa Cruz 14 min · 3700 ft
Airports
Mineta San Jose International (SJC) 82 min · 33.9 mi
Monterey Peninsula (MRY) 103 min · 42.6 mi
Bus
Bus stop 3 min · 700 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Carousel Beach Inn provides visitors with a free full breakfast.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
16
Former name
Carousel Motel
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Carousel Beach Inn from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 780 verified reviews
8.3 /10
Great
85 %
Recommend
Breakfast
8.0/10
Cleanliness
8.6/10
Comfort
8.6/10
Facilities
8.4/10
Free WiFi
8.5/10
Location
9.6/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.9/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Pros
Superb location
Free breakfast
Good parking
Clean room
Relaxing stay
Cons
Broken switches
Noisy pipes
Deferred maintenance
Guest reviews
based on 1765 reviews
8.5/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
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FAQs
About Carousel Beach Inn
What is the distance from Carousel Beach Inn to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk?
Carousel Beach Inn is 200 meters from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
How far is Carousel Beach Inn from Mineta San Jose International Airport?
Carousel Beach Inn is 55 km from Mineta San Jose International Airport.
What amenities does Carousel Beach Inn offer in the guest rooms?
Rooms include a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a microwave, a refrigerator, a hairdryer, and an alarm clock.
Is free Wi-Fi available at Carousel Beach Inn?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
What time is check-in and check-out at Carousel Beach Inn?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Does Carousel Beach Inn serve breakfast?
Carousel Beach Inn serves a daily continental breakfast.
What nearby restaurants are available to guests at Carousel Beach Inn?
Nearby restaurants include Barbary Coast Restaurant (0.5 km), Beach Street Cafe (0.5 km), and Tacos Moreno (0.5 km).
Is parking available at Carousel Beach Inn?
Free private parking is available on-site without a reservation.
What recreational activities are available near Carousel Beach Inn?
Nearby activities include golf, water sports, fishing, and sailing.
What type of views do select rooms at Carousel Beach Inn offer?
Select rooms offer partial ocean views and views of the amusement park.
What facilities does Carousel Beach Inn provide for families?
Up to two children under 16 years can stay at Carousel Beach Inn.
Is there a vending machine at Carousel Beach Inn?
Vending machines featuring snacks and drinks are available on-site.