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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
$677 nightly
The price is $755
Apr 9 - Apr 10
Total with taxes and fees
Oceanfront Watsonville Condo w/ Beach Access!

Steinbeck Lodge

Steinbeck Lodge
2.0 star property
Salinas
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (149 reviews)
"Staff was great; super clean, safe, convenient location and I would stay here again."
United States
Kyle
$89 nightly
The price is $100
Mar 23 - Mar 24
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, (1,056 reviews)
"Very helpful staff, clean rooms and easy access just would be perfect if construction was completed but very, very good for the price and location "
United States
Anthony
$72 nightly
The price is $83
Apr 5 - Apr 6
Total with taxes and fees
Sand Castle Inn

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, (1,000 reviews)
"This place is so cute! Love the style and decor. Staff was great!!"
United States
Ramona
$110 nightly
The price is $123
Mar 29 - Mar 30
Total with taxes and fees
Hacienda de Leal, BW Signature Collection

Hampton Inn & Suites Gilroy

Hampton Inn & Suites Gilroy
2.5 star property
Gilroy
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (618 reviews)
"Clean rooms and the staff are friendly. "
United States
Stephanie
$130 nightly
The price is $145
Apr 1 - Apr 2
Total with taxes and fees
Hampton Inn & Suites Gilroy

Hilton Garden Inn Gilroy

Hilton Garden Inn Gilroy
3.0 star property
Gilroy
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,004 reviews)
"Great place at good location "
United States
Ricardo
$106 nightly
The price is $117
Mar 29 - Mar 30
Total with taxes and fees
Hilton Garden Inn Gilroy

Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn

Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn
4.0 star property
Gilroy
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,007 reviews)
"The room was clean as well as the area. Friendly staff good place to stay."
United States
Laura L
$100 nightly
The price is $111
Apr 5 - Apr 6
Total with taxes and fees
Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn

Bay Breeze Inn

Bay Breeze Inn
2.0 star property
Seaside
7.4 out of 10, Good, (1,000 reviews)
"Reasonably priced motel. Nice stay. Near the ocean. Lots of shopping and places to eat. "
United States
JOY
$43 nightly
The price is $50
Apr 5 - Apr 6
Total with taxes and fees
Bay Breeze Inn

Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay

Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay
2.5 star property
Marina
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,136 reviews)
"Place beautiful and clean, but not real breakfast, they need improve on that "
United States
Adriana
$89 nightly
The price is $103
Mar 23 - Mar 24
Total with taxes and fees
Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey
2.0 star property
Marina
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (1,706 reviews)
"Great area"
United States
Beth
$59 nightly
The price is $70
Apr 2 - Apr 3
Total with taxes and fees
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Gateway Lodge

Gateway Lodge
2.0 star property
Seaside
7.4 out of 10, Good, (652 reviews)
"It was a good experience "
United States
Yulisa
$60 nightly
The price is $69
Mar 23 - Mar 24
Total with taxes and fees
Gateway Lodge

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Dream Inn Santa Cruz
4.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"Very friendly and attentive staff. Great view and amenities, great food. Can’t wait to go back!"
United States
Deborah
$259 nightly
The price is $295
Apr 21 - Apr 22
Total with taxes and fees
Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Seaway Inn

Seaway Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (169 reviews)
"Very clean and great location. Will definitely stay here again. "
United States
Joseph
$152 nightly
The price is $175
Apr 22 - Apr 23
Total with taxes and fees
Seaway Inn

Laurel Inn Motel

Laurel Inn Motel
2.0 star property
Salinas
7.0 out of 10, Good, (1,575 reviews)
"Nice place"
United States
Alicia
$79 nightly
The price is $90
Mar 23 - Mar 24
Total with taxes and fees
Laurel Inn Motel

Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville
2.5 star property
Watsonville
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"Good food as well as awesome staff. "
United States
Rayver
$114 nightly
The price is $132
Mar 29 - Mar 30
Total with taxes and fees
Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

Mission Inn

Mission Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"We love the location, it’s perfect for when we visit our children who attend UCSC!!"
United States
Roxana
$130 nightly
The price is $149
Mar 24 - Mar 25
Total with taxes and fees
Mission Inn

Comfort Inn Monterey Peninsula Airport

Comfort Inn Monterey Peninsula Airport
2.5 star property
Monterey
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Safe, quiet, clean area, all you can ask for when looking for a hotel "
United States
Johnny
$114 nightly
The price is $130
Mar 29 - Mar 30
Total with taxes and fees
Comfort Inn Monterey Peninsula Airport

Deer Haven Inn

Deer Haven Inn
2.5 star property
Grove Acres
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
"An amazing location for access to the beach and beautiful Pacific Grove downtown. Very quiet area and great staff. "
United States
Melodie
$116 nightly
The price is $132
Apr 1 - Apr 2
Total with taxes and fees
Deer Haven Inn

Olympia Lodge

Olympia Lodge
3.0 star property
Beach Tract
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,018 reviews)
"Excellent location and magnificent views. Great place to watch sunset near the lighthouse "
United States
Paul
$107 nightly
The price is $123
Apr 1 - Apr 2
Total with taxes and fees
Olympia Lodge

Ramada by Wyndham Marina

Ramada by Wyndham Marina
2.0 star property
Marina
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,004 reviews)
"Yes everything was just perfect and looking forward to book again next month "
United States
Martin
$110 nightly
The price is $127
Mar 23 - Mar 24
Total with taxes and fees
Ramada by Wyndham Marina
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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 features pristine sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
  • Outdoor Activities: Enjoy a range of activities from beach volleyball to water sports and hiking.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Ideal for family reunions with spacious beachfront locations and recreational areas.
  • Vibrant Local Culture: Explore nearby neighborhoods and experience unique local customs and attractions.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy vacation rentals to luxurious beachfront resorts for a memorable stay.

Find great hotels near Pajaro Dunes

Discover the perfect getaway at Pajaro Dunes, where a variety of accommodations await you, from beachfront condos to luxurious resorts. Ideal for adventure seekers and business travelers alike, Pajaro Dunes offers a unique vacation experience with access to stunning beaches and essential amenities. Whether you're looking for a cozy vacation rental or a full-service resort, you'll find the ideal lodging option to make your stay unforgettable.

  • Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey: This budget-friendly motel offers a welcoming atmosphere for travelers seeking a pet-friendly experience. With a guest rating of 8.0, it's an ideal choice for those traveling with furry companions as pets are allowed onsite, including dogs and cats. Located 12 miles from Pajaro Dunes, Motel 6 Marina provides essential amenities such as free parking and Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. Its convenient location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions while enjoying a relaxing retreat.
  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Monterey Beachfront-Marina, CA: Perfectly suited for business travelers, this budget-friendly hotel combines comfort and convenience. Situated 12 miles from Pajaro Dunes, it offers modern amenities like a well-equipped business center and complimentary breakfast to kickstart your day. Guests appreciate the spacious rooms and the opportunity to unwind by the beach. The inviting atmosphere and attentive service make this hotel a great choice for anyone looking to balance work and leisure during their stay.
  • Motel 6 Watsonville, CA - Monterey Area: Just 4 miles from Pajaro Dunes, this budget-friendly motel is another excellent option for pet lovers. With a welcoming pet policy that allows dogs and cats, it's designed for travelers who want to bring their four-legged friends along. The motel provides essential amenities like free parking and Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay connected and comfortable. With its proximity to the beach and local attractions, Motel 6 Watsonville is a great base for exploring the area.

Where to stay in Pajaro Dunes

Pajaro Dunes offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure along California's stunning coastline. With its pristine sandy beaches and serene ocean views, this village is an ideal vacation spot for families and couples alike. Nearby cities and neighborhoods provide a friendly atmosphere, perfect for excursions and memorable getaways. Whether you're looking to unwind on the beach or explore the vibrant local culture, Pajaro Dunes is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable coastal retreat.

  • Santa Cruz: Located 14 miles from Pajaro Dunes, Santa Cruz is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities. The city attracts visitors year-round, with peak traffic during the summer months of June to August. Families flock to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, home to thrilling rides and games, while the nearby redwood forests offer hiking and exploration opportunities. Don’t miss the picturesque Natural Bridges State Beach, famous for its unique rock formations and tide pools, making it a perfect spot for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
  • Watsonville: Situated right in Pajaro Dunes, Watsonville is a charming city that showcases the beauty of California’s coastal scenery. The area experiences steady visitor numbers, with peaks from June to July and September. Watsonville is perfect for those seeking an outdoor experience, with ample opportunities for beach activities and exploration of nearby state parks. The local beaches offer sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking, while the nearby wetlands provide a chance to see diverse wildlife. Don’t forget to explore the rich agricultural landscape that characterizes Watsonville, known for its delicious strawberries and vibrant farmers' markets.
  • Moss Landing: Just 5 miles from Pajaro Dunes, Moss Landing is a quaint coastal town that offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. With a moderate seasonal influx of visitors, especially in April and summer months, Moss Landing is perfect for those who enjoy kayaking, whale watching, and exploring its beautiful beaches. The town is also home to the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, where you can observe a rich variety of wildlife. Be sure to visit the local seafood restaurants for fresh catches right from the bay.

Things to do near Pajaro Dunes

Pajaro Dunes is perfect for an outdoor beach vacation, offering beautiful scenery and a range of activities. Visitors can enjoy family reunions at beachfront locations, explore the nearby Asilomar State Beach, and have fun at local amusement parks and recreational areas. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Pajaro Dunes has something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

Pajaro Dunes offers a quaint shopping experience with local boutiques and gift shops. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Watsonville Plaza for a variety of stores, or visit the more extensive Mall at Santa Cruz for a full day of shopping and dining options.

Recreation

At Algonquin Dog Park, located 28 miles from Pajaro Dunes, enjoy a serene escape in a luxurious setting. This private club offers wellness activities that include peaceful nature walks and recreational opportunities for both you and your furry friends, ensuring a rejuvenating experience amidst beautiful surroundings.

Adventure

Pajaro Dunes offers thrilling activities such as kayaking in the peaceful waters of the slough, hiking scenic trails at nearby parks, and exploring the sandy beaches. For those seeking excitement, try windsurfing or stand-up paddleboarding along the coast, where the ocean breeze enhances your adventure.

Nightlife

Experience the laid-back vibes at the Pajaro Dunes beach bonfires, where you can relax under the stars. For a cozy evening, visit the nearby restaurants offering fresh seafood and local wines. Don’t miss the local pubs for live music and a friendly atmosphere that captures the essence of California's coast.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Pajaro Dunes

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Pajaro Dunes are March and December 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 customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of hotel you’re looking for. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Pajaro Dunes with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Pajaro Dunes

Pajaro Dunes is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers, offering stunning scenery and a relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can explore various points of interest, including beautiful beaches, scenic bays, and picturesque jetties. Whether you're seeking adventure or a cultural experience, Pajaro Dunes has something to offer for everyone, making it a perfect vacation spot for travelers looking to unwind and enjoy nature.

  • Monterey Bay: Experience the stunning beauty of Monterey Bay, a picturesque location just 8 miles from Pajaro Dunes. Enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and the calming beach vibes that make this bay a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration.
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Located 13 miles away, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is an exciting amusement park filled with family-friendly attractions. Enjoy thrilling rides, games, and outdoor fun, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers.
  • Capitola Beach: Just 10 miles from Pajaro Dunes, Capitola Beach offers a charming coastal experience. Relax on the sandy shores, soak up the sun, and enjoy the vibrant beach atmosphere that captivates visitors.

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 SunnyAverageSlightly Low
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 RainSunnyAverageAverage
December50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Pajaro Dunes

To reach Pajaro Dunes, California, you have several airport options. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is 60 miles away, with nearby luxury hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco, Taj Campton Place, and Palace Hotel, all offering transfer services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is closer at 35 miles and features excellent accommodations such as the Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto and Santa Clara Marriott, both conveniently located. OAKland International Airport (OAK) is 62 miles from Pajaro Dunes, with top hotels like Claremont Resort & Club and 1 Hotel San Francisco, both providing easy access to the airport. Choose your airport based on convenience and hotel options.

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 $70 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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