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Our top choices for Pajaro Dunes hotels

Oceanfront Watsonville Condo w/ Beach Access!

Oceanfront Watsonville Condo w/ Beach Access!
3.5 star property
Watsonville
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
"Nice family trip to the beach. The condo was spacious and the primary bedroom was fantastic. The other two bedrooms were small, but were still accommodating. The property is very well maintained. There’s paths to walk on for a nature walk and the beach has some hard sand that makes long walks on the beach very easy to do. There were 6 of us that went and there was plenty of space. Great stay!"
United States
Sarah
$691 nightly
The price is $770
Apr 9 - Apr 10
Total with taxes and fees
Oceanfront Watsonville Condo w/ Beach Access!

Hacienda de Leal, BW Signature Collection

Hacienda de Leal, BW Signature Collection
3.0 star property
San Juan Bautista
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
"Beautiful place!"
United States
Aleksandr
$108 nightly
The price is $121
Mar 11 - Mar 12
Total with taxes and fees
Hacienda de Leal, BW Signature Collection

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
4.0 star property
Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (1,276 reviews)
"Great stay , hotel staff was very helpful and nice! Clean hotel and and really enjoyed the bar"
United States
Miguel
$129 nightly
The price is $147
Apr 6 - Apr 7
Total with taxes and fees
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Dream Inn Santa Cruz
4.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,015 reviews)
"Great place to stay with an amazing view."
Australia
Ben
$249 nightly
The price is $284
Mar 11 - Mar 12
Total with taxes and fees
Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn

Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn
4.0 star property
Gilroy
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,009 reviews)
"Room was very clean and it was big, great staff! "
United States
Oscar
$110 nightly
The price is $122
Mar 11 - Mar 12
Total with taxes and fees
Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn

Hampton Inn & Suites Gilroy

Hampton Inn & Suites Gilroy
2.5 star property
Gilroy
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (617 reviews)
"Clean room, easy check in, good breakfast with eggs, bacon, sausage, tater tots, cereal, yogurt, bagels, pastries, waffles, juice and coffee."
United States
Kevin
$130 nightly
The price is $145
Apr 1 - Apr 2
Total with taxes and fees
Hampton Inn & Suites Gilroy

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey
2.0 star property
Marina
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (1,682 reviews)
"Room was very nice for the price"
United States
Allan
$55 nightly
The price is $65
Mar 15 - Mar 16
Total with taxes and fees
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,417 reviews)
"Great location and amazing hotel"
United States
Julie
$116 nightly
The price is $134
Mar 11 - Mar 12
Total with taxes and fees
Marea Sol Hotel

Steinbeck Lodge

Steinbeck Lodge
2.0 star property
Salinas
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (139 reviews)
"Staff was great; super clean, safe, convenient location and I would stay here again."
United States
Kyle
$105 nightly
The price is $118
Mar 11 - Mar 12
Total with taxes and fees
Steinbeck Lodge

Sand Castle Inn

Sand Castle Inn
2.0 star property
Seaside
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,053 reviews)
"I had a great stay!"
United States
Michael
$57 nightly
The price is $66
Mar 16 - Mar 17
Total with taxes and fees
Sand Castle Inn

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,260 reviews)
"Roomy with a solid breakfast and really close to the water. "
United States
Zachary
$134 nightly
The price is $155
Mar 12 - Mar 13
Total with taxes and fees
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Deer Haven Inn

Deer Haven Inn
2.5 star property
Grove Acres
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Clean room and great staff! Will definitely stay there again! "
United States
Paige
$96 nightly
The price is $110
Mar 12 - Mar 13
Total with taxes and fees
Deer Haven Inn

Hilton Garden Inn Gilroy

Hilton Garden Inn Gilroy
3.0 star property
Gilroy
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,012 reviews)
"Hotel staff where really helpful very friendly fast service nice lobby and rooms."
United States
Carolina
$111 nightly
The price is $123
Mar 29 - Mar 30
Total with taxes and fees
Hilton Garden Inn Gilroy

Capitola Venetian Hotel

Capitola Venetian Hotel
2.5 star property
Capitola
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (813 reviews)
"We had a great time, they were very accommodating with check in and steps from the beach!"
United States
Danielle
$140 nightly
The price is $161
Mar 12 - Mar 13
Total with taxes and fees
Capitola Venetian Hotel

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites
2.5 star property
Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"Clean room, nice breakfast, courteous staff, great location."
United States
Therese
$143 nightly
The price is $165
Mar 12 - Mar 13
Total with taxes and fees
Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites

Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville
2.5 star property
Watsonville
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,007 reviews)
"Nice staff, great location and very clean"
United States
mariebeth
$122 nightly
The price is $141
Mar 17 - Mar 18
Total with taxes and fees
Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

Hampton Inn & Suites Salinas

Hampton Inn & Suites Salinas
2.5 star property
Salinas
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,008 reviews)
"Great accommodations."
United States
Lisa
$112 nightly
The price is $125
Mar 22 - Mar 23
Total with taxes and fees
Hampton Inn & Suites Salinas

Inn At Pasatiempo

Inn At Pasatiempo
2.5 star property
Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,011 reviews)
" Lean room friendly staff comfy beds excellent restaurant. "
United States
Shana
$109 nightly
The price is $126
Mar 11 - Mar 12
Total with taxes and fees
Inn At Pasatiempo

Olympia Lodge

Olympia Lodge
3.0 star property
Beach Tract
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,013 reviews)
"Decent stay, good location "
United States
James
$80 nightly
The price is $93
Mar 12 - Mar 13
Total with taxes and fees
Olympia Lodge

Sunset Inn

Sunset Inn
2.5 star property
Grove Acres
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,012 reviews)
"Clean room and nice staff!"
United States
Akiko
$165 nightly
The price is $186
Mar 11 - Mar 12
Total with taxes and fees
Sunset Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Learn more about Pajaro Dunes

Secluded beach houses line the pristine shoreline where you can spot dolphins and collect sand dollars at low tide. Families gather on uncrowded beaches for birdwatching, while nearby Monterey offers world-class aquarium visits and scenic coastal drives.

Pajaro Dunes California

Top Pajaro Dunes Hotel Reviews

More cheap stays in Pajaro Dunes

Hotels in Pajaro Dunes with star-rating

Find out more about Pajaro Dunes

Top reasons to visit Pajaro Dunes

  • Stunning Beaches: Pajaro Dunes boasts beautiful sandy beaches along the Pacific Ocean, perfect for relaxation and beach activities.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Explore scenic coastlines and nearby recreational areas, ideal for hiking, biking, and nature walks.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The destination is perfect for family vacations, offering a variety of activities for all ages.
  • Charming Accommodations: Choose from beachfront houses and cozy vacation rentals that enhance your stay.
  • Nearby Attractions: Enjoy local amusement parks and vibrant boardwalks that add excitement to your visit.

Find great hotels near Pajaro Dunes

Experience the beauty of Pajaro Dunes with a variety of accommodation options, from resorts to charming vacation rentals. Whether you're seeking adventure, a beach getaway, or a business-themed retreat, Pajaro Dunes offers the perfect stay for every traveler. Explore the stunning coastline and unwind in comfortable lodgings, including the popular Pajaro Dunes Resort, where relaxation meets the vibrant spirit of California's central coast.

  • Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey: Nestled 12 miles from Pajaro Dunes, Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey is a pet-friendly haven for travelers looking to enjoy their vacation with furry companions. This budget-friendly motel offers essential amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. Guests can appreciate the relaxed atmosphere while enjoying the convenience of on-site pet policies, which allow dogs and cats, making it perfect for families and pet lovers. Clean and straightforward rooms provide a restful environment after a day of exploring the beautiful California coast.
  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Monterey Beachfront-Marina, CA: Located 12 miles from Pajaro Dunes, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Monterey Beachfront-Marina, CA caters to business travelers seeking a productive yet relaxing stay. The hotel features well-equipped meeting spaces and business facilities, making it an ideal choice for those combining work and leisure. Guests can unwind in comfortable rooms while enjoying amenities such as complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. With a beachfront location, this hotel provides a perfect balance of professional amenities and a serene coastal retreat.
  • Motel 6 Watsonville, CA - Monterey Area: Situated only 4 miles from Pajaro Dunes, Motel 6 Watsonville, CA - Monterey Area is another excellent option for pet-friendly travelers. Offering an inviting and casual atmosphere, this motel ensures that your furry friends are welcome with its accommodating pet policies. Guests can expect clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious visitors. With its close proximity to the beach and local attractions, this motel serves as a great base for your coastal adventures.

Where to stay in Pajaro Dunes

Pajaro Dunes offers a serene escape with beautiful beachfront houses and an oceanfront paradise along the Pacific Ocean. Ideal for family-friendly vacations, this charming village provides a relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy beach excursions and breathtaking scenery. Nearby cities enhance your experience with friendly locals and romantic spots, making Pajaro Dunes a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure. Embrace the coastal vibe and create unforgettable memories in this idyllic vacation haven.

  • Santa Cruz: Located 14 miles from Pajaro Dunes, Santa Cruz is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. The city boasts a lively boardwalk and amusement park, making it a favorite family destination. Visitors can enjoy the stunning coastline, with opportunities for surfing, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. The local landmarks, such as the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the picturesque bay, offer a mix of fun and relaxation. While the peak season runs from June to August, Santa Cruz maintains a steady flow of visitors year-round, ensuring a lively atmosphere no matter when you visit.
  • Watsonville: Situated in the heart of Pajaro Dunes, Watsonville is a charming city that invites travelers to experience its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures. The area is renowned for its stunning beaches and proximity to a national state park. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to pristine coastline. Watsonville's peak travel season occurs in June to July and September, allowing tourists to enjoy its vibrant community events and recreational areas. Here, you can immerse yourself in the natural surroundings while indulging in various outdoor activities, making it a hidden gem for nature lovers.
  • Moss Landing: Just 5 miles from Pajaro Dunes, Moss Landing is a quaint coastal town known for its stunning bay views and abundant wildlife. This charming city is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, with opportunities to kayak, bird watch, and explore nearby national state parks. The best times to visit are in April and during the summer months of June to July when the area is bustling with activity. Moss Landing is also home to unique local eateries and shops, allowing visitors to enjoy a taste of the local culture while soaking in the scenic beauty of the coastline.

Things to do near Pajaro Dunes

Pajaro Dunes offers a perfect getaway for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful sand beach and peaceful surroundings, making it ideal for relaxation. Outdoor adventures abound, with opportunities to explore the scenic coastline and nearby recreational areas. Don't miss the fun spots like local amusement parks and boardwalks that add excitement to your stay in this charming destination.

Shopping

For shopping in Pajaro Dunes, visit Watsonville Square Shopping Center, just 4 miles away, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out Capitola Mercantile, located 10 miles away, featuring a variety of shops and dining options.

Recreation

Experience the scenic Seascape Golf Club, an 18-hole golf course that offers a perfect blend of sport and nature just 8 miles away. Unwind at Pinto Lake Park, a serene spot 7 miles from Pajaro Dunes, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst beautiful surroundings.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, located 20 miles from Pajaro Dunes, where adrenaline meets speed. For a unique adventure, try the Zip Line at Treetop Walk, 18 miles away, offering stunning views and outdoor excitement. Enjoy the scenic beauty at Waterfront, 19 miles away.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Pajaro Dunes offers exciting options like Boardwalk Bowl, an arcade adventure zone with vibrant energy, and Sky Glider, a thrilling theme park ride. For a more relaxed evening, catch a film at Cinemark Century Northridge Mall 14, where romance meets entertainment.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Pajaro Dunes

To save money on your trip to Pajaro Dunes, consider visiting from November to January for lower accommodation rates, especially on Tuesdays. Avoid Saturdays, which are pricier. Use Expedia to search for eco-friendly hotels and arrange your travel package to combine hotel, flight, and activities for the best deals. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and the chance to earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Additionally, take advantage of free outdoor activities like beach walks and explore the area on foot to further stretch your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Pajaro Dunes are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Pajaro Dunes is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Pajaro Dunes is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred hotel style. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will show you sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Pajaro Dunes hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions near Pajaro Dunes

Pajaro Dunes is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers, offering stunning scenery and a variety of attractions. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches, explore nearby amusement parks, and take in the serene bay views. The area's points of interest cater to those seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, ensuring a memorable vacation for everyone.

  • Monterey Bay: Experience the stunning natural beauty of Monterey Bay, located 8 miles from Pajaro Dunes. Enjoy relaxing on the beach, exploring scenic trails, and witnessing diverse marine wildlife in a serene coastal setting.
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Just 13 miles away, this lively amusement park offers thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions. With its classic boardwalk atmosphere, it's perfect for adventure seekers and those looking to enjoy a fun day outdoors.
  • Capitola Beach: Only 10 miles from Pajaro Dunes, Capitola Beach is a charming spot known for its vibrant atmosphere. Relax on the sandy shore, soak up the sun, and take in the picturesque coastal views.

Best time to go to Pajaro Dunes

The best time to visit Pajaro Dunes can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Pajaro Dunes falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Pajaro Dunes falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.5°F (12.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May57.2°F (14.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June61.7°F (16.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
July64.0°F (17.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.8°F (18.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
October61.5°F (16.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Pajaro Dunes

Pajaro Dunes, California, is conveniently accessible via several major airports. San Jose International Airport (SJC) is situated 35 miles away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto, 9 miles from SJC, and the Santa Clara Marriott, only 3 miles away. Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY) is 19 miles from Pajaro Dunes, featuring options such as the luxurious 5-star Quail Hotel, 4 miles away, and the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa, just 1 mile from the airport. Lastly, Watsonville Municipal Airport (WVI) is a mere 5 miles away, with accommodations like the 3.5-star Seascape Beach Resort, located 5 miles from WVI.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Pajaro Dunes?
The best area to stay in Pajaro Dunes is within the Pajaro Dunes Resort itself, as it is a private, gated community designed for a secluded coastal experience.

This area is characterized by its beachfront properties, ranging from individual homes to condominiums, all offering direct access to the expansive, uncrowded beach. The resort is laid out with a focus on natural beauty, featuring dunes, wetlands, and walking paths that connect the various accommodations to the beach and resort amenities. It's located just south of Watsonville, providing a tranquil escape from more bustling tourist areas.

Families find Pajaro Dunes particularly appealing due to the spacious rooms and the abundance of outdoor activities. Kids can enjoy playing on the beach, exploring the walking trails, and participating in resort-organized activities, while parents appreciate the relaxed environment and the convenience of having everything within a single, contained area. Many properties offer multiple bedrooms and fully equipped kitchens, making longer stays comfortable and convenient.

Couples seeking a peaceful retreat will also appreciate the quiet setting of Pajaro Dunes. The long stretches of beach are superb for romantic walks, and many rooms offer ocean views, allowing for private moments watching the sunset. The emphasis on nature and relaxation provides a stress-free environment, ideal for reconnecting away from daily distractions.
When is the best time to go to Pajaro Dunes?
The best time to visit Pajaro Dunes is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warmest and most consistent, or in the shoulder seasons of May and September for fewer crowds and pleasant conditions.

For families, the summer offers the most reliable beach weather, making it ideal for enjoying the coastline, building sandcastles, and participating in outdoor activities. The long daylight hours and warmer ocean temperatures create a superb environment for a relaxed beach vacation, with minimal fog.

Couples looking for a more tranquil experience might prefer May or September. During these months, the weather remains agreeable for walks along the beach and enjoying the natural surroundings, but with fewer visitors.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Pajaro Dunes.
How can I save on a Pajaro Dunes hotel booking with Expedia?
With Expedia, you earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible Pajaro Dunes hotel bookings for every dollar you spend – just join our One Key™ travel rewards program to get started. It's free to join, and you'll unlock our lowest Member Prices as soon as you're signed in. On top of this, you could also save significantly by bundling your hotel and flights together on Expedia.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo.
How much is the nightly rate at a Pajaro Dunes hotel?
Prices for hotels in Pajaro Dunes often vary, but you can find a great deal from $56 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

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