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

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21 Aug - 22 Aug
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22 Aug - 23 Aug
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Our top choices for Pajaro Dunes hotels

1. Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville
Watsonville
United States
Leonel
NZ$245
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

2. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watsonville by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watsonville by IHG
Watsonville
United States
Viktoria
NZ$237
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watsonville by IHG

3. Best Western Rose Garden Inn

Best Western Rose Garden Inn
Watsonville
United States
Syria
NZ$260
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Best Western Rose Garden Inn

4. Inn At Moss Landing Point

Inn At Moss Landing Point
Moss Landing
United States
Kathleen
NZ$234
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Inn At Moss Landing Point

5. Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola
Santa Cruz
United States
Aprille
NZ$294
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

6. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Igor
NZ$262
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

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

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites
Santa Cruz
United States
Abby
NZ$294
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites

8. Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Aptos
United States
Lee
NZ$284
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

9. Seascape Beach Resort

Seascape Beach Resort
Rio del Mar
United States
Junko
NZ$626
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
Seascape Beach Resort

10. Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey
Marina
United States
Martina
NZ$147
includes taxes & fees
26 Aug - 27 Aug
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

11. Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
Santa Cruz
United States
Iram
NZ$323
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Chaminade Resort & Spa

12. Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay

Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay
Marina
United States
Amanda
NZ$191
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay

13. Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea

Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea
Capitola
United States
Brend
NZ$212
includes taxes & fees
10 Sept - 11 Sept
Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea

14. Hampton Inn & Suites Marina

Hampton Inn & Suites Marina
Marina
United States
Kimberly
NZ$301
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Hampton Inn & Suites Marina

15. Mission Inn

Mission Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Jerry
NZ$227
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Mission Inn

16. Comfort Inn Marina on the Monterey Bay

Comfort Inn Marina on the Monterey Bay
Marina
United States
IZETTA
NZ$279
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Comfort Inn Marina on the Monterey Bay

17. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Kristina
NZ$252
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

18. Ramada by Wyndham Marina

Ramada by Wyndham Marina
Marina
United States
Niloufar
NZ$236
includes taxes & fees
2 Sept - 3 Sept
Ramada by Wyndham Marina

19. Hacienda de Leal, BW Signature Collection

Hacienda de Leal, BW Signature Collection
San Juan Bautista
United States
Oscar
NZ$223
includes taxes & fees
20 Sept - 21 Sept
Hacienda de Leal, BW Signature Collection

20. Seaway Inn

Seaway Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Mina
NZ$274
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Seaway Inn
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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.

See all hotels in Pajaro Dunes
A sandy beach with footprints, a dune, and a row of beach chairs.

Top Pajaro Dunes Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Pajaro Dunes

Hotel Pacific

Hotel Pacific

10/10 Excellent
"This was a lovely place to stay - as we are local, having our floors redone. The luxury junior suite - had very roomy space, a fireplace, little balcoy and little table/ktichen area. We were extremely pleased with the space, location in MRY and price. We'll go there again when needed and highly recommend it to visitors."
Laurie 2-night trip
Posted 9 hours ago
Hotel Pacific
Sand Castle Inn

Sand Castle Inn

10/10 Excellent
"Sand Castle Inn was excellent. Clean and cozy rooms, affordably priced. They have EV chargers and laundry but i didnt use them this time. Would book again."
Judy 2-night trip
Posted 9 hours ago
Sand Castle Inn
Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"The room was wonderful! Spacious and clean. The restaurant had great food. Friendly staff. Very relaxing stay. I love how dog friendly it is too. It’s tucked away where you feel far away but it’s actually pretty close to down town Santa Cruz and the boardwalk. We will definitely stay again!"
Jennifer 1-night trip
Posted 10 hours ago
Chaminade Resort & Spa
Monarch Resort

Monarch Resort

8/10 Good
"Need to upgrade rooms and improve breakfast selections."
David 1-night trip
Posted 10 hours ago
Monarch Resort
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa

Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa

8/10 Good
"Quick and easy check in process. Property feels like a apartment complex"
TERRANCE 1-night trip
Posted 12 hours ago
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Beautiful property! Yummy Happy Hour! Beautiful view from our room!"
Kim 3-night trip
Posted 15 hours ago
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Bay Breeze Inn

Bay Breeze Inn

8/10 Good
"Cleaning staff were helpful, cheerful and kind, as was one of the front desk personnel. Bed was sprung and a bit odd- slept "hot" and top of body cold in AC and mattress body side hot"
david 2-night trip
Posted 19 hours ago
Bay Breeze Inn
Monterey Beach Hotel, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Monterey Beach Hotel, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Great food"
David 2-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Monterey Beach Hotel, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
 Stargazer Hotel

Stargazer Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"The pool is awesome"
Julissa 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Stargazer Hotel

More cheap accommodation in Pajaro Dunes

Bay Breeze Inn

Bay Breeze Inn

2049 Fremont Blvd Seaside CA
NZ$117
24 Aug - 25 Aug
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (1,023 reviews)
Bay Breeze Inn
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

100 Reservation Rd Marina CA
NZ$147
26 Aug - 27 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey
Sand Castle Inn

Sand Castle Inn

1011 La Salle Ave Seaside CA
NZ$151
9 Sept - 10 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,188 reviews)
Sand Castle Inn
Vagabond Inn Monterey

Vagabond Inn Monterey

2124 N Fremont St Monterey Monterey CA
NZ$154
24 Aug - 25 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Vagabond Inn Monterey
 Stargazer Hotel

Stargazer Hotel

1046 Munras Ave Monterey CA
NZ$223
16 Sept - 17 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,879 reviews)
Stargazer Hotel
Monarch Resort

Monarch Resort

1111 Lighthouse Ave Pacific Grove CA
NZ$257
27 Aug - 28 Aug
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,018 reviews)
Monarch Resort

Find out more about Pajaro Dunes

Top reasons to visit Pajaro Dunes

  • Stunning Beaches: Pajaro Dunes features picturesque beaches, perfect for sunbathing and relaxing by the ocean.
  • Outdoor Activities: Enjoy a variety of outdoor pursuits, including golf at the Pajaro Dunes Golf Course and exploring nearby parks.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With its safe and inviting environment, Pajaro Dunes is ideal for family vacations.
  • Charming Nearby Cities: Discover the relaxed vibe of surrounding towns, perfect for day trips and exploration.
  • Unique Accommodation Options: Choose from a range of resorts and rentals that cater to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Pajaro Dunes

Explore the ideal accommodation options at Pajaro Dunes, California, where you can immerse yourself in a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Choose from a variety of resorts and hotels designed to cater to both business travellers and holidaymakers. Whether you're seeking a beachside getaway or a vacation rental, Pajaro Dunes offers a unique experience that promises to create lasting memories.

  • Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey: Situated 19.3km from Pajaro Dunes, Motel 6 Marina offers a budget-friendly option for travellers seeking a pet-friendly stay. With a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, this motel provides essential amenities while welcoming furry companions. Guests can enjoy the convenience of on-site parking and complimentary Wi-Fi, making it a practical choice for those exploring the area. The accommodation's pet policy allows dogs and cats, ensuring that you can bring your beloved pets along for the adventure.
  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Monterey Beachfront-Marina, CA: Located 19.3km from Pajaro Dunes, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson offers a comfortable retreat for business travellers. This budget-friendly hotel features modern rooms equipped with essential amenities, including complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. Guests can unwind in the spacious lobby or take a short stroll to the nearby beachfront. Its proximity to local attractions and business facilities makes it a suitable choice for those balancing work and leisure.
  • Motel 6 Watsonville, CA - Monterey Area: Just 6.4km from Pajaro Dunes, Motel 6 Watsonville is another excellent choice for pet owners seeking a budget-friendly stay. This motel allows pets and offers amenities to ensure a comfortable visit, including free parking and Wi-Fi. The welcoming atmosphere is complemented by its convenient location, making it easy for guests to access local attractions and the stunning Californian coastline. Ideal for those travelling with pets, it provides a hassle-free experience for animal lovers.

Where to stay in Pajaro Dunes

Pajaro Dunes offers a stunning escape for those seeking beach vacations amidst breathtaking scenery. Explore picturesque sand dunes and unwind by seaside pools while enjoying a family-friendly atmosphere. Nearby, discover charming cities that embrace a relaxed vibe, perfect for romantic getaways or exciting excursions. Whether you’re soaking up the beauty of Pajaro Dunes or indulging in local delights, your experience promises to be both memorable and rejuvenating.

  • Santa Cruz: Nestled 22.5km from Pajaro Dunes, Santa Cruz is a vibrant coastal city known for its picturesque beaches and outdoor activities. This destination is a favourite for families seeking adventure, with popular attractions like the iconic boardwalk and amusement park, perfect for creating lasting memories. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the bay and indulge in various recreational options year-round, though it’s busiest from June to August. The lively atmosphere, combined with local eateries and shops, makes Santa Cruz an inviting spot to explore.
  • Watsonville: Located in the heart of the Pajaro Valley, Watsonville is where Pajaro Dunes is situated. This charming city is celebrated for its stunning scenery and outdoor experiences, making it a great place for nature enthusiasts. With its close proximity to beautiful beaches and national state parks, Watsonville offers ample opportunities for hiking, beachcombing, and relaxation. Although visitor numbers peak from June to July and September, the city's welcoming vibe and recreational areas remain appealing throughout the year, inviting travellers to enjoy its coastal charm.
  • Moss Landing: Just 8.0km from Pajaro Dunes, Moss Landing is a quaint coastal town that provides a serene escape for those seeking natural beauty. Known for its scenic bay and proximity to national state parks, this destination is ideal for outdoor adventures and wildlife viewing. Travellers can experience a blend of recreational activities and laid-back beach vibes, with peak visits occurring in April and from June to July. Moss Landing’s idyllic setting and small-town charm make it a perfect spot for exploring the Californian coastline.

Things to do near Pajaro Dunes

Shopping

Pajaro Dunes offers a quaint shopping experience with local boutiques and gift shops for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Watsonville Plaza, where you’ll find a variety of stores, including larger retailers and specialty shops for a wider selection.

Recreation

At Pajaro Dunes, the tranquil oceanfront offers a serene backdrop for yoga and meditation sessions, allowing you to reconnect with nature. Explore the nearby nature trails for invigorating hikes, or indulge in beachside relaxation, soaking in the calming sounds of the waves and the stunning coastal views.

Adventure

At WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, located 32.2km from Pajaro Dunes, immerse yourself in the thrill of motor racing. Feel the adrenaline as you watch high-speed cars navigate the iconic Corkscrew turn, while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this premier motorsport venue.

Nightlife

Pajaro Dunes offers a laid-back nightlife vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach. Enjoy a casual drink at the nearby local bars or take a stroll along the shore under the stars. For a lively atmosphere, head to Watsonville, just a short drive away, for more options.

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

Find the best attractions near Pajaro Dunes

Pajaro Dunes is a delightful destination for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers, offering stunning scenery and relaxing resort experiences. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, the bay, and the jetty, making it ideal for family vacations. Enjoy breathtaking beach views and take memorable pictures at Pajaro Dunes Resort while immersing yourself in the local culture and outdoor activities.

  • Monterey Bay: Located 12.9km from Pajaro Dunes, Monterey Bay offers stunning coastal scenery and outdoor activities. Explore the vibrant marine life while walking along the shoreline or enjoy a picnic with breathtaking views.
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Situated 20.9km away, this lively amusement park is filled with thrilling rides and games, making it a fantastic outing for families and adventure seekers. The boardwalk’s vibrant atmosphere and ocean views add to the excitement.
  • Rio Del Mar Beach: Just 12.9km from Pajaro Dunes, Rio Del Mar Beach invites relaxation with its sandy shoreline and gentle waves. It’s an ideal spot for sunbathing, beachcombing, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the coast.

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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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

Getting to Pajaro Dunes is convenient when flying into one of the nearby major airports. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 96.6km away, with notable hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco and The Ritz-Carlton, both offering transportation services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is closer at 56.3km, with excellent options like the Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto. OAKland International Airport (OAK) is 99.8km away, featuring hotels such as the Claremont Resort & Club. Each airport provides easy access to transport services to their respective hotels, ensuring a seamless arrival for your vacation in Pajaro Dunes.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Pajaro Dunes?
The best area to stay in Pajaro Dunes is within the private, gated community of Pajaro Dunes Resort itself, as it offers direct beach access and a range of accommodation options.This resort community is situated directly on the Monterey Bay coastline, known for its long, sandy beach. It's a collection of privately owned homes, townhouses, and condominiums, all managed by the resort, ensuring consistent quality and amenities. The layout is designed to maximise ocean views and beach access, with properties often just a short stroll from the sand.Families will find this area particularly suitable due to the self-catering accommodation options and the direct access to the beach. Many properties come with fully equipped kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and living spaces, providing plenty of room for everyone. The beach itself is wide and uncrowded, superb for building sandcastles, flying kites, or simply relaxing by the ocean. There are also walking and cycling paths within the community.Couples looking for a quiet, relaxing getaway will also appreciate Pajaro Dunes. The peaceful setting and the sound of the ocean make it an ideal spot for unwinding. Many rooms offer private balconies or patios with ocean views, superb for enjoying a sunrise or sunset.
When is the best time to go to Pajaro Dunes?
The best time to go to Pajaro Dunes is generally during the late spring and early autumn months, from May to June and September to October, for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.During these periods, you'll find the weather to be comfortably mild, often with clear skies, which is ideal for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities without the intense heat or the cooler, foggier conditions sometimes experienced in mid-summer. The sea breeze is usually gentler, making walks along the shoreline particularly enjoyable.For families, visiting in May or early June is often a great choice. The school holidays haven't fully begun, so the beaches and local attractions are less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience. The weather is warm enough for children to play on the sand and paddle in the ocean.Couples looking for a peaceful escape might prefer September and October. The summer crowds have dispersed, leading to a more tranquil atmosphere.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 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 hotel booking in Pajaro Dunes with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Pajaro Dunes hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Pajaro Dunes?
Prices for hotels in Pajaro Dunes often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$117 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 our cheapest rates.

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