This was the first stop, below San Francisco, we made on our drive along the Pacific Coast Highway.
The beauty of the house that the inn is in does not quite deliver in reality; the house has almost no grounds (and limited parking) and the interior while comfortable, does not have the same look or feel. Our room was quiet, comfortable and functional (it was a room suitable for disabled) but for us it did not deliver on the marketing promise.
The breakfast was self-service and OK but had a very limited selection (also dependent on when you arrived as some things ran out and the hot breakfast got a bit old).
The location is good proving close access to the beach, boardwalk and pier. The walk along West Cliff Drive towards the Lighthouse State Beach is highly recommended and provides excellent views of Santa Cruz and the surf breaks. Also highly recommended is an evening walk along the Pier to view the sunset and rolling mists that fill the bay – stop at Vino Prima Wine Bar (on the Pier, near the end) for a glass of wine or two (one of best wine bars we have experienced).
Overall it was a little bit expensive for what it offered. We would not stay again (the Dream Inn looked tempting).
- West Cliff Hotel
- West Cliff Santa Cruz
