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

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
5 Oct - 6 Oct
Tomorrow
6 Oct - 7 Oct
This weekend
9 Oct - 11 Oct
Next weekend
16 Oct - 18 Oct

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Our top choices for Pajaro Dunes hotels

1. Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville
Watsonville
United States
Russell
NZ$260
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

2. Best Western Rose Garden Inn

Best Western Rose Garden Inn
Watsonville
United States
Syria
NZ$241
includes taxes & fees
6 Oct - 7 Oct
Best Western Rose Garden Inn

3. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watsonville by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watsonville by IHG
Watsonville
United States
Joel
NZ$227
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watsonville by IHG

4. Inn At Moss Landing Point

Inn At Moss Landing Point
Moss Landing
United States
Renato
NZ$228
includes taxes & fees
4 Nov - 5 Nov
Inn At Moss Landing Point

5. Seascape Beach Resort

Seascape Beach Resort
Rio del Mar
United States
Haleh
NZ$662
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Seascape Beach Resort

6. Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola
Santa Cruz
United States
William
NZ$277
includes taxes & fees
8 Oct - 9 Oct
Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

7. Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey
Marina
Canada
Changhong
NZ$156
includes taxes & fees
15 Oct - 16 Oct
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

8. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Frank
NZ$278
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

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

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites
Santa Cruz
United States
Nathan
NZ$270
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites

10. Ramada by Wyndham Marina

Ramada by Wyndham Marina
Marina
United States
Niloufar
NZ$239
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Ramada by Wyndham Marina

11. Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea

Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea
Capitola
United States
Steven
NZ$201
includes taxes & fees
29 Oct - 30 Oct
Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea

12. Best Western Marina State Beach

Best Western Marina State Beach
Marina
United States
Andrei
NZ$213
includes taxes & fees
11 Oct - 12 Oct
Best Western Marina State Beach

13. Hampton Inn & Suites Marina

Hampton Inn & Suites Marina
Marina
United States
Gavin
NZ$318
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Hampton Inn & Suites Marina

14. Comfort Inn Marina on the Monterey Bay

Comfort Inn Marina on the Monterey Bay
Marina
United States
Shalise
NZ$294
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Comfort Inn Marina on the Monterey Bay

15. Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Sonia
NZ$227
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Marea Sol Hotel

16. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Leslie
NZ$269
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

17. Hotel Pacific

Hotel Pacific
Downtown Monterey
United States
Mellissa
NZ$270
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Hotel Pacific

18. Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay

Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay
Marina
United States
Philip
NZ$139
includes taxes & fees
11 Oct - 12 Oct
Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay

19. Sunset Inn

Sunset Inn
Grove Acres
United States
Renee
NZ$291
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Sunset Inn

20. Carousel Beach Inn

Carousel Beach Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Nova
NZ$174
includes taxes & fees
6 Oct - 7 Oct
Carousel Beach 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
"Great hotel. Clean, walking distance to downtown and wharf. Favorite place to stay in Monterey."
Jose 2-night trip
Posted less than an hour ago
Hotel Pacific
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

8/10 Good
"idk"
Travis 2-night trip
Posted less than an hour ago
Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
Lovers Point Inn

Lovers Point Inn

8/10 Good
"A bit dated could use updating. Carpet wore. The worst part of the place is parking. If you don’t get to rooms early you won’t get a parking out side of building that has about 10-15 spaces. Then you’re stuck to park in basement parking and you better only have a compact car. Tight parking with that and you have to turn around at the end that we had to work around a pole to get out. And if a car parks behind you you may not get out. The rest of the place is ok"
Dale 2-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Lovers Point Inn
Bay Breeze Inn

Bay Breeze Inn

10/10 Excellent
"Good place to stay for the price."
Patrick 2-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Bay Breeze Inn
La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

10/10 Excellent
"One of the best hotels in that area, clean, beautiful, comfortable by the ocean and it has two amazing restaurants & great poolside food. We didn’t leave the hotel at all except visiting the park. Both restaurants needs reservations for guests too and are slow style, not a rushed to go type so plan accordingly. I’d come back here frequently for sure."
Samira 2-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
La Bahia Hotel and Spa
Pacific Inn

Pacific Inn

10/10 Excellent
"Clean and very good value. Great if you are travelling with a dog. Great location, near many of the things you would be doing in Monterey/Carmel and Pacific Grove."
Renee 2-night trip
Posted 7 hours ago
Pacific Inn
El Castell Motel

El Castell Motel

8/10 Good
"Clean room"
Alfredo 1-night trip
Posted 10 hours ago
El Castell Motel
 Stargazer Hotel

Stargazer Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"The rooms were very clean. Staff is very helpful, check in was a very easy process."
Juan 1-night trip
Posted 13 hours ago
Stargazer Hotel
Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"I was very pleased with my stay it was very clean and it’s at a great location"
Sherlyn 1-night trip
Posted 13 hours ago
Marea Sol Hotel

More cheap accommodation in Pajaro Dunes

Seaside Inn & Suites

Seaside Inn & Suites

525 Ocean St Santa Cruz CA
NZ$127
1 Nov - 2 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Seaside Inn & Suites
 Stargazer Hotel

Stargazer Hotel

1046 Munras Ave Monterey CA
NZ$155
1 Nov - 2 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stargazer Hotel
Lone Oak Lodge

Lone Oak Lodge

2221 N. Fremont St. Monterey CA
NZ$159
6 Oct - 7 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Lone Oak Lodge
The Stevenson Monterey

The Stevenson Monterey

675 Munras Ave Monterey CA
NZ$172
1 Nov - 2 Nov
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,088 reviews)
The Stevenson Monterey
Lovers Point Inn

Lovers Point Inn

625 Ocean View Blvd Pacific Grove CA
NZ$180
2 Nov - 3 Nov
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (1,487 reviews)
Lovers Point Inn
Monarch Resort

Monarch Resort

1111 Lighthouse Ave Pacific Grove CA
NZ$182
4 Nov - 5 Nov
includes taxes & fees
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$127 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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