2 blocks from the beach. Too far? Stay in and enjoy the atrium, arcade and indoor pool.

In between Capitola Village and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, steps from the beach.

Modern interiors rock a fear-no-color palette and sea-themed artwork. For surfers, Pleasure Point and Lighthouse Point beckon.

Chill Salinas location close to Monterey attractions.

On a quiet street a 5-min walk from Lovers Point, or take the 25-min scenic walk to the famous aquarium.

Perched right(!) on(!) the Beach Boardwalk, steps from all the theme park rides, food stands and live bands.

A more or less five-minute drive to the beachfront, Fisherman's Wharf and great array of eateries.

Throws in a free breakfast, on the house.

Kites and hang-gliders and sand dunes. Oh, my! Hard to find a better spot, just off scenic Highway 1 and around the bend from Marina State Beach.

Tons of options at the complimentary hot breakfast — the only tough choice we like being faced with before noon.

The outdoor pool takes vacay vibes to new heights.

Downtown (and all the local hotspots) is only a 10-min walk away (read: stressful city parking is a non-problem).

Spacious rooms hook us up with super comfy beds and free WiFi.

Drive 5 minutes to the beach for the real thing.

Free WiFi? Yup.

A stunning mansion built in 1905 for part of the Ghirardelli family, recently restored and two blocks from the water. Can’t get much sweeter than that.

Convenient downtown location places you near must-visit shops, restaurants and attractions.

Tucked away at the edge of a forest, yet just a few miles from all the action in Santa Cruz.

Friendly motel steps from the boardwalk. It's like having a roller coaster and ice cream right in your room.

A 5-min drive gets ya beachside.

A touch of Cape-Cod charm just steps from the pristine beaches of the Monterey Peninsula.

Historic status as one of Cali's first seaside condo resorts dating back to the '20s.