If you have trouble finding a vacancy, consider the Terrace Court (125 Beach St., tel. 831/423-3031; www.terracecourt.com), a plain but practical motel on a hill overlooking the wharf, with ocean views and easy beach access. Santa Cruz has plenty of chain motels as well. Two Travelodges (tel. 800/578-7878; www.travelodge.com), two Best Westerns (tel. 800/780-7234; www.bestwestern.com), two Super 8s (tel. 800/800-8000; www.super8.com), and an Econo Lodge (tel. 877/424-6423; www.choicehotels.com) provide moderate- and budget-priced accommodations in addition to the nonchain recommendations below.
