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Torch Lite Inn

2.5 star property
Art Deco motel near Monterey Bay

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Photo gallery for Torch Lite Inn

Signature Room | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, desk, blackout drapes
Front of property
Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, desk, blackout drapes
Terrace/patio
Lobby sitting area

Reviews

7.6 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • 24/7 front desk
  • Parking included
  • Housekeeping
  • Air conditioning
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View in a map
500 Riverside Ave, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
  • Place, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Cruz Main Beach
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Cruz Wharf
    ‪11 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪45 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Deluxe Room

Deluxe Room | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, desk, blackout drapes

Deluxe Room

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(55 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Signature Room

Signature Room | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, desk, blackout drapes

Signature Room

8.2 out of 10
Very good
(70 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

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About the neighborhood

Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz stay.A stay at this Westside Santa Cruz motel places you within half a mile (1 km) of Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and 2 miles (3 km) of Monterey Bay. Ocean Street and Sky Glider are also within half a mile (1 km).
View more Motels in Santa CruzOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Ocean Street - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Santa Cruz Main Beach - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Pacific Avenue - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Santa Cruz Wharf - 11 min walk - 0.6 miles

Getting around

  • Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal) - 27 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cruzin’ Crepes - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪四姐 Special Noodle - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Boardwalk Bowl - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Coaster's Lounge - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Los Primos Taqueria - ‬5 min walk

About this property

Torch Lite Inn

Art Deco motel near Monterey Bay
As a guest of Torch Lite Inn, you'll find a terrace and a vending machine. WiFi is free in public spaces. Limited free parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

This Art Deco Santa Cruz motel is smoke free.

  • 38 guestrooms or units
  • 2 levels
  • 2 buildings
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • Terrace
  • No smoking on site
Torch Lite Inn offers 38 air-conditioned accommodations with coffee/tea makers and hair dryers. Pillowtop beds feature premium bedding. 40-inch LCD televisions come with premium cable channels. Guests can make use of the in-room refrigerators and microwaves. Bathrooms include shower/tub combinations and complimentary toiletries.

This Santa Cruz motel provides complimentary wireless Internet access. Business-friendly amenities include desks and phones. Additionally, rooms include irons/ironing boards and blackout drapes/curtains. Housekeeping is provided daily.

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Property amenities

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking available only on request
  • Free self parking on site
  • Limited onsite parking (max 1 space per unit)

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Hardwood flooring in room
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • 40-inch LCD TV with premium cable channels

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Pillowtop mattress
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 AM
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in fee: USD 45
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
If you are planning to arrive after 10:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
This property's listed general deposit is refundable via credit card within 14 days after check-out, pending room inspection.

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Kids stay free! Up to 2 children stay free when using existing bedding.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

Guests will be asked to pay the following charges at the property:

  • Deposit: USD 200.00 per accommodation, per stay

We've listed all charges provided to us by the property.

This property's listed general deposit is refundable via credit card within 14 days after check-out, pending room inspection.

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Early check-in fee: USD 45 (subject to availability)

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking
This property accepts credit cards and cash
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Safety features at this property include a smoke detector
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A credit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation. Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Eurocard, and cash. This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
    For guests' safety, the property includes a smoke detector in each accommodation.

We should mention

  • Up to 2 children stay free in the same room as the parent or guardian when using exisiting bedding.

Property is also known as

Torch Lite Inn
Torch Lite Inn Santa Cruz
Torch Lite Santa Cruz
Torch Lite Hotel Santa Cruz
Torch Lite Motel
Torch Lite Inn Motel
Torch Lite Inn Santa Cruz
Torch Lite Inn Motel Santa Cruz

Frequently asked questions

How close is Torch Lite Inn to the airport?

Torch Lite Inn is 16.5 mi (27-min drive) away from the Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Torch Lite Inn?

As of Nov 14, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Torch Lite Inn on Nov 19, 2025 start from $67.5, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does Torch Lite Inn have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at Torch Lite Inn.

How close is Torch Lite Inn to the beach?

This motel is a short 8-minute walk from Santa Cruz Main Beach and 8-minute walk from Main Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Torch Lite Inn offer free breakfast?

Torch Lite Inn does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Torch Lite Inn?

No, there is no casino at this motel.

What time is check-in at Torch Lite Inn?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 AM. Early check-in costs USD 45 (subject to availability).

Is there free parking at Torch Lite Inn?

This motel offers free self parking.

Does Torch Lite Inn have a pool?

Torch Lite Inn does not have a pool.

Does Torch Lite Inn have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this motel.

How close is Torch Lite Inn to downtown Santa Cruz?

Torch Lite Inn is 0.1 mi away from Lower Ocean.

Torch Lite Inn Reviews

Reviews

7.6

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 412 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 246 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 167 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 80 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 98 out of 1003 reviews

8.2/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Staff & service

6.8/10

Amenities

7.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.6/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Meghan

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Family 2025 Beach Trip

Cute little beach spot - smaller than expected room but we have a bigger family worked out for us for the one night we were there. Walking distance to the board walk and limited parking if you can walk I would suggest so you can park your car at night in the hotel. Overall I would stay here again no issues staff was super nice and respectful
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Oved, Bakersfield

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very accessible to walk to the beach restaurants a d friendly owner or manager!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Andrea

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christine

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very nice, helpful front desk. This hotel is in the perfect location to avoid the expensive parking at the nearby locations. Our room was comfortable. There is a nice view from the shared outdoor patio.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

Kathina

Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
When we first initially came to stay here we were excited to be able to be closer to the beach. That part was solely my fault because of my lack of research of how far it truly was. My father’s truck Got broken into and
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brieanne

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Service was exceptional!!!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Peter

Traveled with family
Very nice reception
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

4/10 Poor

Kate

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Not as advertised- 20 minute walk to the Boardwalk along very busy streets. Sheets appeared dirty. Minimal amenities- one hand towel and one wash cloth for four people.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Edwin

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

ashley

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Best property within walking distance of the boardwalk. I have had an exceptional time every time with the clean rooms.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Zahra

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
My recent stay at the Torch Lite Inn in Santa Cruz was, for the most part, absolutely delightful! The room itself was a highlight – very nice, spacious, and comfortable, providing a great base for my trip. The only significant downside was the noise from the room above me. There was frequent heavy walking and stomping in the middle of the night, along with the sound of running water, which unfortunately disrupted my sleep. Additionally, I was a bit surprised by the $100 deposit required for room damages at check-in. While I'm sure it was mentioned in the terms and conditions, it wasn't something I was expecting, so a heads-up beforehand would have been appreciated. Aside from these two points, I had no other complaints and thoroughly enjoyed my stay. The Torch Lite Inn offers a great location and comfortable accommodations.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Anna

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Jennifer

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service

Affordable, convenient stay

Convenient, comfortable, no frills place to spend the night after a long day at the Boardwalk. I was initially very apprehensive after seeing some less than desirable reviews. However, our stay was comfortable for an overnight stay. It is a short walk to the boardwalk, or about a two minute drive so you are really paying for the convenience.It is in a busy area which means there is lots of both auto and foot traffic, however none of it disturbed us during the night. Parking is also very tight but the front desk employee was so kind and helpful in helping us find spots to park. Also, although a $100 deposit was mentioned on several other reviews, we did not have to put a deposit down. As noted in other reviews, there is no longer a pool so that is something to be aware of. The property has a main building and a separate annexed building located close to an alley. I was located in the annexed building but it did require a key to enter the hallways as a security measure. The actual rooms were clean and spacious. They offered a small bathroom with shower and toilet. The sink and mirror are located in the general room area. There is a good sized refrigerator that would hold lots of snacks and packaged foods. Also, a microwave (hard to come by in most hotels) and a small coffee maker. The beds were comfortable enough, the A/C worked well. If you were staying for a longer vacation, I could see seeking out a place with more amenities, but it worked for our trip.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

2/10 Terrible

Adolfo

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I put a do not disturb sign on my door and house keeping still came in without permission
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Mindie

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Needs a little help on the outside - but overall a VERY convenient location nice staff and owners! Should make big dirt pile a garden with palm trees- improve the outside paint touch up- great parking clean updated rooms - perfect surfer town stop - I would stay again
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

4/10 Poor

Myra

Traveled with family
Disliked: Amenities
Location ok, but the room have some flaws ,broken coffeemaker didn't even offer to replace, no shampoo
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Ethel

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jolie

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kaiju

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

2/10 Terrible

Aleksei, Sacramento

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Don’t recommend
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dulce

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

bernabe

Liked: Cleanliness
Nice staff
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

4/10 Poor

Leo Carlo

Traveled with family
Disliked: Staff & service
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025