Located in Westside Santa Cruz, a neighborhood in Santa Cruz, Drift Inn is near theme parks and near a boardwalk/promenade. Mystery Spot and Roaring Camp Railroads are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Monterey Bay and Capitola Beach. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Boardwalk Bowl are also worth visiting. Visit our Santa Cruz travel guide
As of Oct 23, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Drift Inn on Oct 25, 2026 start from $87, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking?
Self parking is free at this property.
What time is check-in at Drift Inn?
Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 11:00 PM. Late check-in is available during limited hours.
What time is check-out at Drift Inn?
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Drift Inn located?
Located in Westside Santa Cruz, this motel is within a 10-minute walk of Ocean Street and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Monterey Bay is 1.2 mi (1.9 km) away.
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Reviews
Drift Inn Reviews
8.0
Very Good
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.More informationOpens in a new window
The price was good, the property was very clean, but needs updating. It was a full suite with seperate kitchen. The bed was comfortable, everything else was a bit worn.
The staff were lovely, the place was well maintained and clean, it was much more spacious then we thought! Great for the price, I definitely recommend!
Small motel in a decent walkable location that's worth the stay. Comfortable room with a separate office with a double stack freezer/fridge. All the essentials were clean (bathtub/bed/toilet) but I would say the walls, doors and frames could use a quick wipedown.
Parking seems adequate.
A quick walk to the pier and downtown to the restaurants, record stores and bars.
Good place to stay, and not too far of a walk to the boardwalk. The only "complaint" I have is that it costs .25 cents if you want ice. The staff was very nice when I arrived and the room was a good size room also. I would stay there again.
the litle kitchen was very helpfull. (even do they forgot to clean it mind u). the people was very understanding and friendly. However i recomend the place.
Stayed here over the weekend and had a great experience. The front desk staff were very welcoming upon arrival, and I was even upgraded to a bigger room! A friendly reminder: being kind and respectful to the employees goes a long way.
The location is also excellent the boardwalk and downtown area are only about 10–15 minutes walk away. Would recommend!
When we first pulled up we were a little concerned because it looks a little outdated but we were so relieved when we saw how clean it was inside and no carpet was a huge plus ! I would definitely come back
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Bartlomiej
Dec 10, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The room was clean, staff very friendly, nice place to stay.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Megan
Jan 26, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
We had an amazing stay! Ankit at the front desk was extremely helpful and hospitable when we booked our hotel visit last minute. I would definitely recommend this inn for anyone looking for a cozy and conveniently located place to stay in downtown Santa Cruz.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review
8/10 Good
Henry
Dec 5, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
rooms were clean, beds were good, staffs were nice.
We had another great stay here! The staff is always courteous, and the room is always clean and fully stocked. This is our go to place whenever we're in town. Thank you for another great experience! Highly recommend 👌
First of all the receptionist Ankit is amazing and quite personable! Was able to check in a little early before check in time and got a room upgrade with a separate kitchen and balcony. Room was super clean and location was close to amenities. Will definitely be back!