A coastal landscape with a prominent rock formation, a sandy beach, and a clear view of the ocean.

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Our top choices for Pajaro Dunes hotels

1. Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
4.0 star property
Downtown Monterey
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (3,725 reviews)
"Love the location close to the wharf. Love the property."
United States
Lisa
1 day ago
$212 nightly
The price is $252
Nov 16 - Nov 17
Total with taxes and fees
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

2. Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
4.5 star property
New Monterey
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,732 reviews)
"I had an amazing time at this hotel las."
United States
Shelly
6 days ago
$314 nightly
The price is $363
Nov 24 - Nov 25
Total with taxes and fees
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

3. Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
4.5 star property
Monterey
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,773 reviews)
"Great room and location by lobby restaurant.."
United States
JOHN
8 days ago
$230 nightly
The price is $267
Nov 10 - Nov 11
Total with taxes and fees
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

4. Carmel Mission Inn

Carmel Mission Inn
3.5 star property
Carmel
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,887 reviews)
"Staff was very nice. Love that it is dog friendly."
United States
Beverly
2 days ago
$182 nightly
The price is $207
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Carmel Mission Inn

5. Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
3.5 star property
Aptos
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,195 reviews)
"Great property. Perfect location. Can't recommend it strongly enough."
United States
Susan
7 days ago
$98 nightly
The price is $114
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Total with taxes and fees
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

6. Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa

Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
3.5 star property
Downtown Monterey
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,787 reviews)
"Very comfortable beds. We really enjoyed our short stay."
United States
Victoria
2 days ago
$199 nightly
The price is $232
Oct 28 - Oct 29
Total with taxes and fees
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa

7. La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa
4.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (581 reviews)
"Location is great walk out right to the boardwalk."
United States
Janine
1 day ago
$337 nightly
The price is $378
Oct 29 - Oct 30
Total with taxes and fees
La Bahia Hotel and Spa

8. Monterey Beach Hotel, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Monterey Beach Hotel, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
4.0 star property
Monterey
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (857 reviews)
"View was amazing and they had some nice perks!"
United States
Jaqueline
3 days ago
$215 nightly
The price is $250
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Total with taxes and fees
Monterey Beach Hotel, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

9. Seascape Beach Resort

Seascape Beach Resort
4.0 star property
Rio del Mar
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"Beautiful place with all the amenities you need for a great vacation!"
United States
Carrie
7 days ago
$245 nightly
The price is $279
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
Seascape Beach Resort

10. Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside

Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside
3.5 star property
Seaside
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,584 reviews)
"We had a little issue about cleaning the room. All was good."
United States
Michele
7 days ago
$201 nightly
The price is $231
Nov 11 - Nov 12
Total with taxes and fees
Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside

11. The Monterey Hotel

The Monterey Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Monterey
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,833 reviews)
"Overall had a wonderful experience."
United States
Heather
5 days ago
$95 nightly
The price is $109
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
The Monterey Hotel

12. InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG

InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG
4.5 star property
New Monterey
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,204 reviews)
"I highly recommend this hotel. The staff was friendly."
United States
Chris
1 day ago
$248 nightly
The price is $287
Nov 9 - Nov 10
Total with taxes and fees
InterContinental the Clement Monterey by IHG

13. Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville
2.5 star property
Watsonville
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"Clean, comfortable convenient to a business meeting."
United States
Kay
10 days ago
$103 nightly
The price is $120
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

14. Hotel Pacific

Hotel Pacific
3.5 star property
Downtown Monterey
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,924 reviews)
"Many wonderful things In Monterey were within walking distance. Our room was huge."
United States
Patricia
1 day ago
$128 nightly
The price is $150
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Pacific

15. Highlands Inn, a Destination By Hyatt

Highlands Inn, a Destination By Hyatt
4.0 star property
Carmel Highlands
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,003 reviews)
"The views were breathtaking. This was an amazing hotel. The grounds are gorgeous."
United States
Taylor
3 days ago
$429 nightly
The price is $480
Nov 18 - Nov 19
Total with taxes and fees
Highlands Inn, a Destination By Hyatt

16. Pacific Inn

Pacific Inn
2.5 star property
Casanova Oak Knoll
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,907 reviews)
"The property was very clean. We will definitely stay here again."
United States
Tonya
2 days ago
$67 nightly
The price is $78
Nov 17 - Nov 18
Total with taxes and fees
Pacific Inn

17. Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey
2.0 star property
Marina
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (2,272 reviews)
"Nice clean room, even though they don't offer housekeeping for any amenities we were able to get it from the front desk."
United States
Selmy
23 hours ago
$75 nightly
The price is $87
Oct 28 - Oct 29
Total with taxes and fees
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

18. The Quail

The Quail
4.0 star property
Carmel
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,004 reviews)
"We highly recommend. Fantastic on this property. Everything from A to Z was exceptional."
United States
Mahmood
22 hours ago
$306 nightly
The price is $343
Oct 29 - Oct 30
Total with taxes and fees
The Quail

19. Best Western Rose Garden Inn

Best Western Rose Garden Inn
2.5 star property
Watsonville
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,005 reviews)
"Other than the thick layer of dust on the ceiling fan, the room was nice, clean, and quiet."
United States
Nikita
1 day ago
$106 nightly
The price is $122
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Best Western Rose Garden Inn

20. Carmel Bay View Inn

Carmel Bay View Inn
2.5 star property
Downtown Carmel
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,845 reviews)
"Property was fantastic, great stay, very clean and just waht we needed."
United States
Kristin
1 day ago
$188 nightly
The price is $212
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Carmel Bay View Inn
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Stay near popular attractions around Pajaro Dunes

Pajaro Dunes offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Enjoy the serene beaches, explore the picturesque Pajaro River, and take in the stunning views from the jetty. Whether you're seeking relaxation or cultural experiences, this coastal gem has something for every traveler.

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.

A sandy beach with footprints, a dune, and a row of beach chairs.

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 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 $78 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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