Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

2-star hotel Great 505 Riverside Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA, CA 95
Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

About Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Located within 10 minutes' walk of the Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk, Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz offers free WiFi. All rooms include a private bathroom with a hair dryer. All rooms also include a TV with cable channels. All rooms offer a microwave and a refrigerator. Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is less than 1.2 mi from the Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz . The hotel is within 4 mi of the Capitola Mall, which features shopping.

Amenities

  • Meeting space
  • Express check-in / check-out
  • Family friendly
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Smoke-free property

Reviews

4.1 / 5
Great 968 reviews

The hotel is praised for its convenient location, with many guests enjoying the proximity to local attractions and restaurants. The staff is frequently commended for their friendliness and helpfulness. However, some guests have complained about the cleanliness of the rooms, with issues ranging from mold and mildew to dirty carpets. Noise is another common complaint, with guests reporting traffic noise and thin walls.

What guests liked
  • Convenient location
  • Friendly and helpful staff
What could be better
  • Cleanliness issues in rooms
  • Noise from traffic and thin walls
  • Thomas Jun 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    -

  • Jiehone Jun 2026 · via expedia
    3/5

    The staff were enthusiastic and the room cleanliness was decent, but the facilities were outdated and the kitchen stove was unusable.

  • Mary Jun 2026 · via hotels.com
    3/5

    Cons: needs major updates, furniture, bed and carpet all worn. Bathroom paint was bubbling in spots, dust on paneling and the air conditioning units are ancient. With updates, could be a great spot, but I’d rather stay a bit farther from Boardwalk for a comfortable bed and amenities.

  • Isabel Jun 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    It was perfect size for perfect price

  • Liza Jun 2026 · via expedia
    1/5

    Although the staff was very freindly helpful (the only positive) with the issues I brought to their attention, my overall experience was very not worth the money. The room was not very clean, the bed was made with stained and dirty sheets, the fridge was and broken, the floor was bumpy and hollow, bathroom was moldy and smelled, toilet was soooo loud, kitchen had mold, air conditioner was full of dust and debris. For some reason there were earplugs by all the beds!? The room was just not upkept well at all. Unfortunatly I would not return.

  • Olivier Jun 2026 · via expedia
    3/5

    My room smelled like feet and cleaning chemicals :(. I think the carpet can use an update. Was ok with air running full time. Otherwise all clean and nice. TV didn't work, wasn't important to me, but I mention it.

  • Lynne Jun 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    This is not a glitze 5 star place with a lot of bells and whistles. But, check in was with a warm and gracious clerk. The room (they put us in a unit with two rooms and a kitchen) was clean and comfortable. We would stay there again.

  • Nicholas Jun 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Close enough to walk to the boardwalk and great restaurants nearby. Be mindful there are homeless in the city, especially across the bridge near the shops and restaurants.

  • Michael May 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Nice stay close to everything

  • Anna May 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Check in was a pleasure with the wonderful lady working around 6pm on 25th May - she needs a pay rise and an extra holiday day she was so pleasant and friendly and asset to the place. The room was comfortable and clean, parking in the courtyard was easy and the position of our room meant it was very quiet. Would stay again. Many thanks

  • Luis May 2026 · via expedia
    2/5

    Not really clean and they do extra charge for more than two people and they don’t tell you till you there ready to check inn

  • Yulia May 2026 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    Staff, parking, air conditioning

  • Robert May 2026 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    Nice room but small. Good value

  • Esther May 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    So yes, the rooms are great clean and very spacious and I couldn’t figure out why the office had laid out earplugs in both of the bedrooms of our suite now I know why!!!! Very thin walls! So where are the air plugs‼️‼️‼️

  • Matthew May 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    We had a great experience. The amenities were wonderful and being close the boardwalk was very convenient.

  • Eli May 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    For the price, an excellent deal. Room was clean and bathroom was spacious. Best aspect of the motel is its location. Very easy walk not only to the boardwalk and beach but also to the downtown across the river. I was in Santa Cruz to attend a conference which had multiple locations in disparate areas of town. I was able to comfortably walk to all of them, as well as to tourist destinations. The only difficult part of town to access was the University, but I get the sense that essentially no hotels are accessible to that campus anyway. Staff was courteous. Very pleasant stay.

  • Michael May 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great location for families who want to enjoy downtown santa cruz and the boardwalk

  • mingelen May 2026 · via priceline
    0.5/5

    Nothing They stoled 129.00 dollars from me..they ran me off after paying for my room and let a hooker use the room for free..

  • Lorenza May 2026 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    It was quiet and convenient for walking to the boardwalk, check in was quick and easy. The room was not too great, the hair dryer did not work, the coffee maker did not work, the seat looked filthy with stains. But the stay was satisfactory for our needs.

  • Harry May 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Parking was tight

  • Nicole May 2026 · via priceline
    4/5

    The property could use some higher level upgrades, but for the price, excellent.

  • Rebecca May 2026 · via hotels.com
    2/5

    Room carpet is so dirty its sticky. Walking around with socks or barefoot turned the bottom of our feet black. We had some people next door who seemed to be living long term in their room, and were playing music past quiet hours. We had to call front desk to ask them to stop playing music so loud.

  • Fahad May 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Good price and a nice unit. We had a two room suite which was also priced reasonably. Beds were comfortable and rooms were clean. Surprisingly quiet for being near the road, an a nice short walk to the boardwalk. If you get a unit with a kitchenette make sure to bring your own stuff. They have a stove, microwave, and fridge but no pots, pans, utensils, oil, salt, etc. (we borrowed some from a friend). was great to make our own breakfast each morning and having a place to stash and warm up leftovers though.

  • Daniel May 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Second stay here great place close to the boardwalk!

  • Calista Apr 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Clean and comfortable, very accommodating staff and great location!

  • stephanie Apr 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Easy parking

  • Peter Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    The family suite we stayed in (3 queen beds in two rooms + kitchenette) wasn’t anything extravagant but everything was clean and functional and the pricing was great. Check in was easy, parking was available, room and bathroom look to have been renovated fairly recently. Really no complaints at all. We all felt safe and comfortable. If we’re in SC for a short stay again I wouldn’t hesitate to book here.

  • Candace Apr 2026 · via priceline
    5/5

    Coffee machine didn't work ?

  • Bruce Apr 2026 · via priceline
    3/5

    Loud smokers outside my room at four AM

  • Cheryl Apr 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    We had a group of 6 so the room we had fit us wonderfully with everyone having a comfortable bed to sleep in. We were impressed with the friendliness and service from the front desk; she was very helpful and kind. The only issue we had was lack of parking after being out late. We had to park in a place that was not actually a space because there was nothing left, but everything went well since we had our sticker in the window as a guest. We also appreciated having walking distance to the boardwalk. We shall return.

  • Kimberly Apr 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Friendly staff. Clean room. Free parking. We were able to walk to the boardwalk. Would stay here again.

  • Kathi Apr 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    The parking was secure and easy, right by our door. The AC worked well and was a pleasant sounding fan. It was a very restful stay.

  • Benjamin Apr 2026 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    Clean, friendly, central location, fast WiFi, great value.

  • Steve Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Easy parking and nice room. Would recommend

  • Laury Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    We stayed in the family suite, which had three beds, a kitchen, and a nice bathroom. We had 4 pillows on each bed and plenty of towels for our 3-night stay. The staff were friendly and accommodating. The location of this property cannot be beat! We were 4 minutes away from everything. We would definitely stay here again.

  • Marco Apr 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    You get what you pay for:)

  • Yulia Apr 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Parking was easy. Ac working good.

  • Shane Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Clean, comfortable bed. Very quiet at night. Walking distance to downtown.

  • Rama Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    The deluxe suite with two queens was amazing, two separate rooms with one bed in each room. Everything was great, we were so happy to find this place!

  • Eric Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Our room was for 3 people and was a kitchenette suite. Easy walk to downtown. Keurig type coffee maker with pods in the room. Multiple pairs of ear plugs included in the room? Who does this ? Super thoughtful of management. No traffic noise or neighbor noise. Early morning dumpster pick up was the only noise but they have to be picked up sometime. No fault of the motel. We really enjoyed our stay and they earned their high rating. We will be back.

  • Karen Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Very clean building and rooms Room temperatures were pleasant

  • Rosalez Apr 2026 · via priceline
    4.5/5

    That you have to pay for ice instead of it being free

  • James Apr 2026 · via hotels.com
    2/5

    While the front desk staff was very accommodating, the room itself was very disappointing, esp. for the price. Extremely basic, with a very small and old-fashioned bathroom, hard to share with 3 people (in a ‘deluxe queen’). There were no outlets for computers for ex.! The only redeeming factor is that we could walk to the Boardwalk. Would probably not choose to stay here again. It was definitely overpriced for what it was.

  • Joseph Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Very friendly staff

  • Vicente Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Good place just parking little tigt was up graded to a king bed stove didn't work 😴 😪 ice machine works with quarter that u can get from front desk when open

  • Misty Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great room, could use a deep clean of chairs and bed skirts. Definitely don't take a black light

  • Zhijing Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    clean room. friendly staff. would highly recommend.

  • Duncan Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Two small notes, only place I’ve seen that has ever charged for ice, but I think it was like $0.25 or something. Also I didn’t notice any noise at all but the hotel room came with ear plugs, last time I saw that was Boston lol

  • Darrel Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    The place was good, staff was friendly, and I can't complain about the price. We'll do it again

  • Susan Apr 2026 · via hotels.com
    3/5

    Parking was satisfactory. Carpets filthy. staff in ofc unfriendly.

  • Rosemary Apr 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Parking was easy, room was clean

  • Brad Apr 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Clean comfortable easy parking great location for walking to the beach or downtown

  • Lopez Apr 2026 · via priceline
    3/5

    The shower was broken. The knob came off when you turn on the shower and not much parking for big trucks

  • Charles Mar 2026 · via priceline
    4.5/5

    location to the boardwalk was exactly where I wanted to be.price was better than I expected. Will definitely come again couldn't stay longer

  • Katarina Mar 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Great location for reasonably priced hotel. Clean room and nice staff.

  • Pamela Mar 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Easy parking, clean rooms, great shower, big thick towels and nice toilet paper. Comfortable bed, area can be loud at night but just until 10pm on a Friday night of our stay.

  • Lizeth Mar 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    10/10, will be booking here next time in Santa Cruz.

  • James Mar 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Staff was friendly. Parking was easy and safe. Air conditioning worked well in the room.

  • heidi Mar 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    There are ways to get to your hotel without dealing with too much traffic if you’re staying during the weekend in the summer.

  • Kathryn Mar 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    AC works well

  • Eryn Mar 2026 · via priceline
    4.5/5

    It is an older hotel with thinner walls and near a busy intersection, but the hotel even went so far as to provide complementary earplugs.

  • Diana Mar 2026 · via priceline
    3/5

    The location is wonderful, easy to walk to the Boardwalk and the Pier. Parking was easy and included. And although I was initially worried it would be noisy, it was a quiet night's sleep. The bed was surprisingly comfortable. Towels were clean. The room was priced fairly for being a no-frills place to sleep and this place was good for a one night stay. Overall, the place is run down. The room smelled musty and moldy even after airing it out and having the fan on. Our TV did not work, which didn't matter too much since we were only there for a night, but it was a nuisance. There was dust all around the framed painting above the bed, which was off-putting. The shower head was an odd nozzle-type that shot out the strongest mist I have ever encountered. It wasn't terrible, but it was weird. I didn't hate it, but I didn't like it, either.

  • Alen Mar 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Simple and nice, clean and spacious rooms.

  • Latrice Mar 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    My favorite place to stay when I'm in town. Close to everything buttttt management so nice. Its not a 5 star but its comfortable and quiet ,like one.

  • Daniel Mar 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    A very fair priced, neat location. Minutes away from the boardwalk. Location was nice enough to let me park my vehicle early so no need for a parking pass when you can move along down to the boardwalk. WILL DEFINITELY BE RETURNING:)

  • David Mar 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    A nice place at a great price

  • Tyler Mar 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Cheap, clean, quiet.

  • Keenan Mar 2026 · via expedia
    1/5

    Wow this place sucked…TV didn’t work. Room was literally a room with just a bed. Place smelled of mold and visible mold in bathroom. Had the nerve to ask for a $200 deposit after I already paid for the room in advance. Tied up $300 bucks for one night . Could have stayed anywhere else. Women at front was rude, and I think they live in there. Limited parking. Sketchy people staying in rooms as well.

  • Soleil Mar 2026 · via priceline
    5/5

    Comfy and near everything Tv cable did not work

  • Golzio Mar 2026 · via priceline
    3/5

    I felt unsafe to get to my car

  • Williams Feb 2026 · via priceline
    2.5/5

    noisey

  • paula Feb 2026 · via priceline
    4/5

    Location, overall vibe, was great , There was trash outside my room when aI arrived

  • Joseph Feb 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Clean rooms friendly staff

  • Patricia Feb 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Very nice staff and clean room. Convenient to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Good value for the price.

  • Jones Feb 2026 · via priceline
    2.5/5

    Ice machine didn’t work

  • Stephen Feb 2026 · via priceline
    2.5/5

    No hot water in the morning

  • mark Feb 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Was not expexting 2 rooms each with a bed. Location was perfect. Price was exceptional for what was received

  • Jason Feb 2026 · via expedia
    3/5

    Nice roomy Room! Everything was good.

  • Kya Feb 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Clean, nice, cheap

  • Robert Jan 2026 · via priceline
    3/5

    coffee maker did not work. There was not even a place there to plug it in !

  • Emma Jan 2026 · via priceline
    5/5

    All was well. Parking was tight. Got back late and didn’t have a spot but across the parking lot and had a young child sleeping so I had to carry across the parking lot. Just frustrating is all.

  • Irene Jan 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Very helpful friendly staff!

  • Vi Jan 2026 · via priceline
    5/5

    Amazing service. Check in was easy, emails replied promptly, and was always greeted with a friendly smile at the reception. Thank you so much for everything!

  • Samik Jan 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Clean room, great staffs, good location.

  • Susan Dec 2025 · via priceline
    4/5

    Shower was slimy no hot water told front desk they fixed it.

  • Kristie Dec 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Clean room, easy parking, and nice staff.

  • love Dec 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Clean, accessible and near the boardwalk beach

  • Margarita Dec 2025 · via priceline
    1.5/5

    Water was nice & hot ?tub ws big & bed ws clean. TV was malfunctioning & was only able.to view one channel all night long. Coffee machine was missing & my husband was disappointed he didn't have his coffee in the morning. Jets were malfunctioning in tub. Jessica got an attitude with me when I wasn't sure where the room was located initially.

  • bart Dec 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Excellent housekeeping, clean rooms. Good refrigerator and microwave, nice bathtub, lots of hot water staff at the front desk was very friendly.

  • Frenneci Dec 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Clean, quiet, comfy beds, fluffy clean towels, friendly check-in. Excellent location. Very close to the Boardwalk. It was great to have 2 separate rooms! Wish we could have stayed longer.

  • Crystal Dec 2025 · via priceline
    4/5

    Easy location

  • Peter Dec 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Everything was excellent for the price

  • Sean Dec 2025 · via priceline
    5/5

    Got there hours ahead of time. Man was concerned that a room was clean and available, most importantly cleaned. That showed he cares that people are getting good service. It's in a good walk short walk to the pier. And getting around places and back to the motel is easy. Parking lot is a wee bit small in the center. Was worried my parking a corner spot would get trapped in, didn't thankfully but that's the only thing I didn't like.

  • ROBERT Nov 2025 · via expedia
    3/5

    could hear voices from adjacent rooms

  • Maria Nov 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    We picked to stay here, because of its location, fair prices and good reviews. We weren’t disappointed. Evening staff was nice and accommodating. Our room needed updating, but it was clean, comfortable and spacious. The water hot and strong! A/C, WiFi and cable TV worked fine. Would stay here again.

  • Angela Nov 2025 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    Decent place. We stayed one night when we went up to SC to pick up our kid from college. The room is outdated but not gross or anything like that. Staff was super friendly and nice. Bed was comfy enough and pillows were fluffy.

  • Amy Nov 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Easy getting the room online. Check in was a breeze. Very friendly receptionist gave me info for a great breakfast in the morning

  • William Nov 2025 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    Parking was easy and secure.

  • John Nov 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Always a happy experience. Great bang for your buck!

  • Robert Nov 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Clean great comfort helping loving staff and price is a little high could be lowered for weekdays and weekend stays but overall satisfying

  • Jose Nov 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Good for short stay, stay with my wife and young daughter. Guests next door were speaking using profanity all night and we could hear everything. Also be aware that hotel requires 200$ deposit that gets returned after check out and room gets inspection. Location is good, close to everything. Kitchenette has no utensils, plates or pots. Beds a bit squishy, overall not horrible but not great either.

  • Gabriela Nov 2025 · via expedia
    3/5

    This was a great budget

  • Linda Nov 2025 · via hotels.com
    3/5

    We stayed in the two-bedroom. The front bedroom did not have a television but the bathroom was there. The back bedroom had a television and kitchen, it also had a second door to go out but when I opened the door, at the bottom it was full of bugs and eggs, so I quickly closed it, and did not open it again. We did not drive there but the parking seemed to be accessible. Staff was friendly and accommodating. The kitchen and bathroom were unswept, and there was a large dead black bug by the refrigerator floor upon arrival. I asked the front desk to sweep the floors and they did. A strange lady knocked on the door late at night, and I was there with my daughter and I told her quietly to ignore it, although the woman knocked several times. We were able to walk back and forth to the boardwalk and a convenience store was two blocks away from the hotel, but I would not trust walking there at night. The Wi-Fi worked fine. The towels were clean, the bed was comfortable, and the shower head was nice, but the tub stopped up while showering. Although the location is convenient, I would not stay there again.

  • Margalit Nov 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    I appreciate management friendliness and willingness to help. Rooms are clean and bedding is comfortable. The location is great it is in proximity of many sights and at the same time walkable

  • Clinton Nov 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    the $20 fees on top ruins it

  • Tracy Oct 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Always a great place to stay!

  • Mercedes Oct 2025 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    Ok

  • Edward Oct 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    This has become our go-to place for our visits to a relative living in Santa Cruz. Good value for the money, our room had a kitchenette, and we like to bring our breakfast and eat in the room. With the kitchenette table we didn't have to eat on the bed. Even though it was a weekend, it was quiet and we slept well.

  • Kevin Oct 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Friendly staff, easy parking, great location, quiet and safe. Recommended.

  • Tracy Oct 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Always love staying here! Great staff, great prices, and great location!

  • Julie Oct 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Clean along with free parking for a very reasonable price

  • Ĝodswill Oct 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Great place no complaints

  • Janna Oct 2025 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    Clean comfortable bed. Convenient location within walking distance of Santa Cruz boardwalk.

  • Ruth Oct 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    GREAT location to get anywhere in the area!

  • Daniel Sep 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Cheap spot, but fine for what it is.

  • Janet Sep 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Check-out

  • Kevin Sep 2025 · via expedia
    3/5

    The room is exactly what I needed, simple, close to the boardwalk, and a place to sleep for the night, not to mention quite inexpensive for the area. To be more detailed though, there were a number of small things that were a bit funky: The tv was hooked over top of the wall mount, meaning it might fall if you mistook it for a telescoping mount. Next to it was the main light for the room, which was damaged on the top of the fixture. In the kitchenette, none of the four burners started, but the sink had great water preassure and was quick to heat. The sam went for the bathroom, where you would get hot water almost immediately, though there was some calcium build-up on the showerhead which reduced the water pressure. The shower screen itself was toen at the top, separating from the rail rings. The mirror over the bathroom sink had some odd discoloration behind the surface, and the bedspread had a couple small dot-stains. Again, these really didn’t bother me all that much, the room itself was comfortable enough to sleep in, and I spent most of my time walking the area, and visiting the nearby beach, boarwalk, arcade, and warf. Likely will stay again if I need a cheap place to stay the night and be close to the action. Literally took my a max of 8 minutes to jog over to the boardwalk from my room, I loved the closeness to the action!

  • Corey Sep 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Super friendly staff

  • Cindy Sep 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    .

  • Francisco Sep 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Clean sheets and towels. Room very clean too

  • Leslie Sep 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    The location is perfect for our needs. We stayed here last year for our vacation in Santa Cruz. The management is kind. The did housekeeping and changed towels everyday. When ever we need something they can help with they take care of it! We really enjoyed how quiet it was! We've stayed there for two different years now, if we go back we'll stay there again, because we know what to expect. Enjoyed the fact that every room has a microwave and refrigerator, and a Smart TV. It was comfortable. Everyone is kind.

  • Grecia Sep 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    The inside is a bit outdated, but it served its purpose. A major bonus is its location. The staff at the front desk was so kind.

  • Rosemary Sep 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Very close to the beach boardwalk location was nice property was clean and accommodating

  • Roark Sep 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Guy behind the desk happily lent me office supplies. I needed tape and it saved a ton of time shopping.

  • Sneha Sep 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Very small rooms but great location

  • serena Sep 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Everything was just perfect, we were able to park early and walk to the boardwalk.

  • Michelle Sep 2025 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    the cofeee machine was broken. If yo

  • Juan Sep 2025 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    Great service and nice staff.

  • David Sep 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    My room was right next to a busy street from the bridge and river. There was loud music blasting till 11pm.

  • Maja Sep 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great stay

  • Ashlei Sep 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    The staff was very kind and helpful. We arrive way before our scheduled time, the staff was kind to let me park there.

  • Lorna Aug 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Seemed like a nice family run motel.

  • Kurt Aug 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Close to all the action, but quiet. I love having a room where no one is above or below me. This is my 2nd time staying there and will certainly return next year.

  • niall Aug 2025 · via expedia
    3/5

    typical cheap motel . why do they have 4/5 bad pillows on bed instead off one good one. And side street noisy But not bad location. short walk to board walk and down town.

  • Beth Aug 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    We love the proximity to Aldos, Pacific Ave shopping, boardwalk and the wharf. Lots of great dining close by. Never need to drive anywhere. Great walking on the river walk. When we checked in there were complimentary earplugs on the side table and we thought we were going to hear a lot of noise, otherwise why the earplugs? We never heard any noise. For a little one story Inn that is a little old we've stayed there twice and we'll stay there again.

  • Fermin Aug 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Excellent service and location is walking distance from the boardwalk

  • Julie Aug 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Welcoming front desk and clean comfortable room. I was very pleased

  • Hunter Aug 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great spot. Pretty quiet and friendly staff

  • Steve Aug 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Keyran was a great help in finding a place to eat. The room was large, very clean and the bathroom was spotless. Peaceful and quite at night and two blocks walking to the boardwalk.

  • Mike Aug 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Clean and tidy room. Some rooms face a road, others the central courtyard area. My room faced the courtyard so had a park straight out the door and was quiet. I would stay here again.

  • Amelia Aug 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Very convenient location

  • Matthew Aug 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    For a cheap, quick stay, I really can't find much to complain about for the price. Staff was friendly and welcoming, check-in was quick, and you're within walking distance of a lot of what's worth seeing in Santa Cruz. Bed was clean and comfortable, got a good night's sleep. Not the fanciest, not the quietest, but if you're looking to save money you're probably not going to beat staying here.

  • carissa Aug 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Clean and simple room walking distance to the beach

  • Noah Jul 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    It was a convenient and fairly well-maintained hotel, wasn't a bad choice for a short trip. A few things could use some updating, but the wall-mounted dispensers for personal care products like soap & shampoo instead of small bottles was neat.

  • Brandon Jul 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Very comfortable and nice. Manager was very nice and very welcoming

  • Leslie Jul 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    For an older hotel, the room was very clean and efficient. Very pleased with the two separate bedrooms. There were several types of pillow to choose from. Plenty of towels in the bathroom. Surprisingly quiet for bring right off a busy street. Great location for access to the beach and boardwalk. The front desk personnel was friendly.

  • raymond Jul 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    I

  • Dan Jul 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Close to the boardwalk, you get what you pay for

  • Christy Jul 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Great one night stay. Thank you

  • Ruben Jul 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Very comfortable and convenient. Close to everything

  • Hootsa Jul 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    The location is perfect. The room is exactly like a pictures. The most important thing that I hope they improve it is cleaness. The floor is disgusting. Really need attention to cleanliness.Other things were great

  • Joseph Jul 2025 · via expedia
    3/5

    it was very meh

  • B Jul 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    I usually take notes on hotels as part of a travel log, but forgot to do so in this case. All I remember is that the room was nice and clean and quiet. I enjoyed my one-night stay here.

  • Bianca Jul 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    We absolutely adored the room! I was a bit leary as we have had not so great experiences in the area but this place was amazing! Everything was tidy and clean, no weird mold or mildew in the bathroom. Appliances were working, nothing broken. The pillows were super comfy and my teens had zero complaints! I was worried it would be noisy being so close to the street but we heard very little and we had zero loud neighbors! Everyone was super friendly and quiet. There were other families with kids as well and throughout the night we did not hear them running around. Everyone was super respectful. We were actually blown away by how great this place is, I definitely recommend!

  • Doreen Jul 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Close to boardwalk

  • Peter Jul 2025 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    Pleasantly surprised. Old motel but clean, comfortable and only 5mins from the Boardwalk.

  • Velma Jul 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    A little on the noisy side, traffic and outside activity. They did provide earplugs in the room for the guests. A nice perk was the close proximity to the Boardwalk. A friendly staff member greeted me when I checked in. Room was very spacious and clean. Bed was comfortable.

  • Thad Jul 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    It is quiet. Room was clean. Nice staff. Perfect distance to the beach and restaurants.

  • R Jul 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Ten minute walk to the boardwalk. Front desk staff was kind and communicative. Rooms were clean and parking was easy. Allowed to check in early for a small fee.

  • Verchelle Jul 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Double rooms don’t have a tv in the second room . Other than that it was great

  • Claudia Jul 2025 · via expedia
    2/5

    Kitchen stove dirty,mirror bathroom dirty bathroom sink clogged,microwave door dirty

  • Barbara Jul 2025 · via expedia
    3/5

    Dated but clean and staff are cooperative and friendly.

  • Israel Jul 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    I like very nice place

  • MINITA Jul 2025 · via expedia
    3/5

    Room was ok but a bit old .Toilet made loud noises and shook when flushed. Definitely need some remodeling.

  • Dale Jul 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Spacious, quick, clean, quiet

  • Garrett Jun 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Honestly this day was great room was nice and clean front desk clerk was very nice I forgot my ID and they held onto it for 2 days cuz I had business in the area and couldn't get back before the office closed very close to the Santa Cruz boardwalk or wharf It was great honestly we will be staying here again

  • Stanley Jun 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Perfect rate and location

  • Juan Jun 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Great rates, clean room, quiet.

  • John Jun 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Our suite has a stove, full refrigerator, microwave, two rooms with comfortable beds and a nice little patio. The staff helped us make a copy of a parking permit for the ucsc graduation ceremony. We stayed two nights.

  • Tracer Jun 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Staff was kind, we had a great time, property was clean and maintained.

  • Corey Jun 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Easy walk to everything and good value for the price.

  • Ruth Jun 2025 · via hotels.com
    2/5

    Good location, easily walkable to the boardwalk and wharf. Small motor inn style room. The decor was dated which doesn’t bother me. The room was clean. I didn’t find the bed to be very comfortable ( I am a bit picky ). The pillows were hard and flat. The bedside lights were a new looking addition and had usb jacks which was nice but they were fluorescent and way too bright. The parking lot which is right out the door is very lit up. They had blackout curtains but light leaked out the top into the room so it was a little too bright in the room. They should put something up at the top of the curtains to fix that. All and all, it was just ok, could have been better with a few minor improvements and you are definitely paying for the location.

  • Pearl Jun 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Our room had two queen beds in separate bedrooms, which was surprising and nice for privacy. Check in and check out were easy. The property was clean and quiet. There was a fridge, coffee-maker, and microwave, which I hadn't expected from the amenities list but enjoyed having! The shower temperature could be set to whatever I liked, with hot water available. Very good location, 10 minute walking distance to the Boardwalk or downtown restaurants.

  • Karen Jun 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    We stayed in a 2 bedroom suite with a kitchen, walking distance to the beach boardwalk, for a very reasonable price. It was mid-week, so we didn't hear street noise. They leave ear plugs by your bed for when it's busier. This is an old style motel, but it's clean and comfortable. It was great to have 2 separate bedrooms with doors. Only thing is- there are no kitchen supplies. I think they should leave paper towels, a small dish soap, some plastic plates, bowls and cutlery. Plus one pot and one pan. You have to bring everything if you want to eat or cook, even though there's a full kitchen stovetop, fridge, sink etc. Otherwise very good deal.

  • deborah Jun 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Awesome location and very kind management. Clean & comfortable room.

  • Muhammed May 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    I stayed there for a couple of nights. It is very close to the beach and personnel were friendly. I may stay there, if I want to spend few days in Santa Cruz.

  • Beth May 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    The staff was very friendly. Great value for the money. We loved that we could walk to the boardwalk and to the wharf for dinner and to the yacht harbor for breakfast at Aldos. We didn't drive the car all weekend because we walked everywhere. The river walk was right across the street. We were a little nervous when we got into our room and there were complimentary earplugs on the night stand. We thought "this place must get noisy at night" but we slept great and there was never any noise except for the air conditioner. We will stay here again on our next visit to Santa Cruz. We highly recommend this motel.

  • Chase May 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    👍

  • tara May 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    It seemed very clean and it was very close to the boardwalk...even though it was on a busy street we were able to sleep fine...it defiantly quitted down...

  • Patrick May 2025 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    Great location easy to walk to Santa Cruz Boardwalk about 3 blocks. Nice neighborhood, parking is great. Staff is pleasant and friendly.

  • Ramji May 2025 · via expedia
    3/5

    They provide kitchen but no utensils and the kitchen hob did not work. We had to fire it each time with lighter

  • Tracy May 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    I always stay here when I’m in town Surfing. The staff is always friendly and accommodating. The rooms are well taken care of. And it’s a nice short walk to the boardwalk plenty of food and other things to do in the area. I really love staying at Riverside Inn.

  • Verified May 2025 · via expedia
    3/5

    You can hear the sound of the TV from next door and people talking along the corridor. Maybe this the reason why there are ear plugs provided in the room. This place needs to improve the sound insulation. Hot water on the shower sometimes gets cold.

  • Edward May 2025 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    Decent basic accommodations reasonably quiet for an overnight stay for a nearby concert. This is my second stay here, will come back.

  • Jon May 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Very pleased with my stay. Very close to the Boardwalk and had free parking. Room is dated, but it was clean and did the job for 1 night.

  • John Apr 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    All goid

  • Carlos Apr 2025 · via expedia
    3/5

    Furniture old

  • Sara Apr 2025 · via hotels.com
    3/5

    To the boardwalk. One parking spot per reservation although there was room for second car it was not allowed. Run down. Tears in dust ruffle on mattress. Old paintings. Carpet seemed unclean. Gap under door to outside. Needs weather stripping. Overall we were in the room very briefly. Just to change and sleep a little after a concert. It was quiet and we slept well and felt safe. It was nice to have a mini fridge. We didn’t take advantage of the kitchen. We didn’t shower there. Chose to wait until our next destination.

  • Liam Apr 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great location, clean room, pleasant and polite staff.

  • Bagrat Apr 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Otherwise worth the visit and the payment - close to the beach & downtown, 5-10 minutes each. Plenty of eateries and stores around. Staff were kind and friendly, room service was on point. Recommended!

  • Daniel Apr 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Clean and quiet!

  • Tracy Apr 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    I stay here a lot and love coming back every time. Great staff and easy accommodations!

  • Mae Apr 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    The property was quite nice, and I felt it was a great deal for the price!

  • Edward Apr 2025 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Clean spacious and quiet, great pace at a reasonable price. I’ll definitely be back.

  • Elise Mar 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    The rooms are spacious and clean. The parking is easy and in front of your room. It is a very convenient location.

  • Colin Mar 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Friendly host. Great price. Quaint little beach bungalow.

  • Elise Mar 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    This is a wonderful place to stay, it is well managed and clean, and the manager is very kind.

  • Tracy Mar 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    I always love staying at Riverside Inn. The staff is friendly always helpful. Great place to stay.

  • Donald Mar 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Wonderful little oasis

  • GILBERT Mar 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Iconic location across from river & skate park. Cant beat the price for Santa Cruz!

  • Mario Mar 2025 · via expedia
    3/5

    Good

  • Mitzi Mar 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Really nice motel, I was upgraded to a Queen room. The smell in the room was not the best but it was overall a decent room for the price, very quiet and convenient.

  • Cristopher Mar 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Loved not only the room but the convenience of everything being walking distance especially the Boardwalk and beach!

  • Ben Mar 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Like the bed and mattress

  • Anastasia Mar 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Quiet, cozy, clean. There is everything you need. Everything works.

  • Juventino Mar 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Friendly staff and within walking distance to the boardwalk.

  • Thao Feb 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Despite its outdated amenities, the hotel staff exhibited a friendly demeanor. However, the carpet was noticeably soiled if one did not wear shoes. While the bedding was clean and of a softer quality, the toilet exhibited a loud noise during flushing. Overall, the stay was satisfactory for a single night.

  • Tracy Feb 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great place and the staff are amazing!

  • Tristan Feb 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Easy, walkable, clean. Will stay again.

  • John Feb 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Inexpensive! All the basics! Television didn't work and staff came in immediately and fixed it! Awesome!

  • Randall Feb 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    Our stay here was very pleasant. Room by was nice and well kept. Staff was very friendly. It is B off season here, so parking was easy. Walkable to many attractions.

  • Zadok Feb 2025 · via expedia
    5/5

    This place was well located on the west side of Santa Cruz. Was amazed the room had a real fridge with frozen and cold section separate. Overall no complaints, for the price and the location. Thank you.

  • Kalli Jan 2025 · via expedia
    4/5

    Right down from the boardwalk and beach

Frequently asked questions about Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Does Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz have free Wi-Fi?
Yes, Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz offers free Wi-Fi for all guests.
Does Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz offer parking?
Yes, Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz offers free parking on-site.
Does Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz have meeting spaces, conference centers, or conference rooms?
Yes. Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz offers meeting spaces for business and group use.
Does Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz have a fitness center?
Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz does not list an on-site fitness center. Some properties partner with nearby gyms — check directly with the hotel.
Where is Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz located, and how walkable is the area?
Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz is located at 505 Riverside Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA CA 95060. With a Walk Score of 87, the area is rated Very Walkable. Most errands can be completed on foot, with public transit and rideshare easily accessible.

House rules

Check in 3:00 PM
Check out 11:00 AM
Cancellation Not available
Children Not available

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