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Islander Motel Santa Cruz

2.0 star property
Motel near Mission Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz

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Photo gallery for Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, desk, iron/ironing board
Point of interest
Reception
Seasonal outdoor pool
Free self parking

Reviews

8.4 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

View in a map
522 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
  • Place, Ocean Street
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Pacific Avenue
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪58 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Standard Room with 1 King and 1 Full Bed

Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, desk, iron/ironing board

Standard Room with 1 King and 1 Full Bed

  • 192 sq ft
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, desk, iron/ironing board

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking

  • 150 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, desk, iron/ironing board

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(29 reviews)
  • 150 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, desk, iron/ironing board

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(5 reviews)
  • 150 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Family Room, 2 Bedrooms, Non Smoking

Family Room, 2 Bedrooms, Non Smoking | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, desk, iron/ironing board

Family Room, 2 Bedrooms, Non Smoking

  • 150 sq ft
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

About the neighborhood

Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz stay.Your stay at this Westside Santa Cruz motel places you within 3 miles (5 km) of Mission Santa Cruz and Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. Monterey Bay and University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum are also within 3 miles (5 km).
View more Motels in Santa CruzOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Ocean Street - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Pacific Avenue - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 16 min walk - 0.9 miles
  • Santa Cruz Main Beach - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Santa Cruz Wharf - 2 min drive - 1.4 miles

Getting around

  • Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC) - 42 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Taqueria Los Pericos - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Jack in the Box - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Woodstock's Pizza Santa Cruz - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Pacific Cookie Company - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪The Buttery - ‬6 min walk

About this property

Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Motel near Mission Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz
As a guest of Islander Motel Santa Cruz, you'll find a seasonal outdoor pool and a vending machine. WiFi is free in public spaces. Free self parking is available. You'll have access to the health club at a partner property.

This Santa Cruz motel is smoke free.

  • 1 building
  • 22 guestrooms or units
  • 2 levels
  • Built in 1963
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • No smoking on site
Islander Motel Santa Cruz offers 22 air-conditioned accommodations with hair dryers and irons/ironing boards. Beds feature Egyptian cotton sheets and premium bedding. 32-inch flat-screen televisions come with premium cable channels. Bathrooms include bathtubs or showers and complimentary toiletries.

Guests can surf the web using the complimentary wireless Internet access (speed: 25+ Mbps). Business-friendly amenities include desks and phones; free local calls are provided (restrictions may apply). Housekeeping is provided daily.

Similar properties

2 Queen Bed + Sofa Bed | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi
Seaside Inn & Suites
Westside Santa Cruz
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping
4.2 out of 5, Very Good, 1,042 reviews
$77 nightly
The price is $89
May 31 - Jun 1
Total with taxes and fees
Seaside Inn & Suites

Property amenities

Family friendly

  • Fenced pool
  • In-room microwave
  • Mini-fridge
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 25+ Mbps
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Things to do

  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Grab bar near toilet (33 inches high)
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • 32-inch flat-screen TV with premium cable channels

Bedroom

  • Egyptian cotton sheets

Bathroom

  • Bathtub or shower
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Microwave
  • Mini-fridge

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: midnight

Early check-in subject to availability

Early check-in fee: USD 25

Late check-in subject to availability

Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Late check-out subject to availability

Late check-out fee: USD 50.00

Special check-in instructions

Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation

Prior to arrival, you must complete online registration via a secure link

You will be asked to provide the property with a copy of your government-issued photo ID after booking

If you are planning to arrive after noon please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation

The credit card used to book the reservation must be presented by the cardholder at check-in along with matching photo identification, and other arrangements must be coordinated with the property prior to arrival

For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • No pets allowed, but service animals are welcome

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Kids stay free! One child 5 years old or younger stays free, per registered adult, 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 100 per accommodation, per stay

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

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 25 (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out fee: USD 50.00 (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
This property accepts credit cards and mobile payments; cash is not accepted
Mobile payment options include: Google Pay and Apple Pay
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
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 private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, mobile payments, Google Pay, and Apple Pay. Cash is not accepted. This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
    For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit in each accommodation.

We should mention

  • The seasonal pool will open May 15 and close October 31.
  • One child 5 years old or younger stays free, per registered adult, in the same room as the parent or guardian when using existing bedding.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed to be in guestrooms.
  • Alcohol isn't served at Islander Motel Santa Cruz.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Islander Santa Cruz

The Islander Motel

The Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Islander Santa Cruz Santa Cruz

Islander Motel Santa Cruz Motel

Islander Motel Santa Cruz Santa Cruz

Islander Motel Santa Cruz Motel Santa Cruz

Frequently asked questions

How close is Islander Motel Santa Cruz to the airport?

Islander Motel Santa Cruz is 15.4 mi (18-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 Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

As of May 23, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Islander Motel Santa Cruz on May 28, 2026 start from $79, including 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 Islander Motel Santa Cruz have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at Islander Motel Santa Cruz.

How close is Islander Motel Santa Cruz to the beach?

This motel is 5.6 mi (15-min drive) from Capitola Beach and 1.2 mi (6-min drive) from Seabright Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Islander Motel Santa Cruz offer free breakfast?

Islander Motel Santa Cruz does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

No, there is no casino at this motel.

What time is check-in at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: midnight. Early check-in costs USD 25 (subject to availability).

Is there free parking at Islander Motel Santa Cruz?

This motel offers free self parking.

Does Islander Motel Santa Cruz have a pool?

Islander Motel Santa Cruz features a seasonal outdoor pool.

Does Islander Motel Santa Cruz have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this motel.

How close is Islander Motel Santa Cruz to downtown Santa Cruz?

Islander Motel Santa Cruz is 0.3 mi away from Santa Cruz.

Islander Motel Santa Cruz Reviews

Reviews

8.4

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 447 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 366 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 99 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 36 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 53 out of 1001 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

8.4/10

Staff & service

7.8/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

8/10 Good

lisa

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was friendly and helpful with directions. I liked there was a lot of trash cans in the room. The room was clean. Our only concern was the parking. It was too tight. When we got back to our room all but one of the spaces were taken. The only one left was by a concrete wall and we had to squeeze into it. We were told there was street parking but we didnt feel comfortable parkingthat far from our room
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026

8/10 Good

Anita

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The room was spotless as always. Check in and out was effortless and managers were pleasant and accommodating. We will definitely stay here again!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Reed

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

2/10 Terrible

austin

Disliked: Staff & service, amenities
The whole place smelt like stinky feet first off!! The lady behind the counter was extremely unprofessional and rude and they ran my debit card on file three different times before even arriving and i had selected to pay in person when I made my reservations online. Thankfully my bank flagged it for suspicious activity! I was there at 3:46 pm check in isn’t even till 3:00pm and because it was Valentine’s Day most places were sold out, so of course so was this place!!! she sold my room out from underneath me for almost double what I booked it for and then she said that it was my fault I had no money and for us to leave. My fiance and I Drove 6 and half hours to just escape for a night at the beach we had money. veryglad we didn’t end up having to stay here. TVs broken air conditioning stunk and barely worked so we went down the street closer to the ocean and stayed at Hotel Santa Cruz!!! highly recommend especially after our horrible experience at the islander…. Don’t stay here
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

William

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Had a great stay here at the Islander. The room was clean and smelled good, the staff was friendly and helpful, and check-in and check-out were easy. Great stay!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

8/10 Good

Alexander

Room was clean, bed was comfortable, one washrag looked questionable and pillows felt a little flat
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

8/10 Good

Justin

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
yes.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

sherrie

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Steven

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

AmyJune

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Love this hotel
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

AmyJune

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Always nice to stay here when we're in Santa Cruz. We love how convenient the location is to downtown. And the staff is so lovely and remember which room we like to stay in.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Kiara

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Carlos

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was really nice, and gave great recommendations for great food near by. The room and very clear. The hotel is perfectly located within 5 minute walking distanced to main street area. 10/10 would stay here again!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

James

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great room Great staff
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dustin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Great place
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
My go to hotel in SC. Clean Safe and the owners are wonderful!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Patie, Santa Cruz

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Easy parking, friendly, helpful person at check-in, close proximity to the downtown. Good value for the price. Have stayed here before and will stay here next time I’m in Santa Cruz
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Spotless. Fells like it’s been newly renovated. Excellent shower. Half a mile to the vibrant downtown. The receptionist was friendly and welcoming.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Ron

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was good
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Clean, comfortable and very accommodating.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mindy

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Deborah

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Steven

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
I have stayed at this property 20 plus times. It is not fancy but quite clean and the staff is run by a family and they seem to really care. I stay here because I enjoy the owners (the family). Price is reasonable. Bed is comfortable, however the desk and chair is not great but I overlook this because I love the location and the people who work there.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Philip

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The motel's in a good location, staff are friendly, and the rooms are clean and tidy, however the beds are very hard and uncomfortable - did not get a good night's sleep either night. There are also very bright lights along the outside walkways and the curtains don't fully block them so there was very bright strip of light in the room all night long (didn't bother me but kept my wife awake the first night).
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025