South Bay: Boulder Creek, Capitola, Pescadero, Santa Cruz
Vajrapani Institute Private Retreat Cabins - Boulder Creek (not curator reviewed)
Location: 19950 Kings Creek Road
Why Go There? A quiet get-away Buddhist retreat site, at the end of a five-mile dirt road on the border of Castle Rock State Park in the Santa Cruz Mountains with shared but private indoor bathhouse, communal refrigerator, nearby hiking trails and outdoor showers with fabulous views of the surrounding mountains. Lodging rates (two night minimum) include vegetarian hot lunch, soup and salad dinner, delivered once daily in an insulated meal bag. Breakfast includes abundant container of wheat-free (contains oats) granola in each cabin. The communal refrigerator is stocked with staples such as soy, rice milk, cow’s milk, wheat bread, gluten free bread, cheese, nut butters, jams, fruit. Cabins are also stocked with a variety of teas. Donations are gladly accepted.
More Information: Private Retreats
Capitola Venetian Hotel - Capitola
Location: 1500 Wharf Road
Why Go There? Picturesque, colorful Mediterranean-style quirky hotel/suites adjacent to wharf reported to be oldest California condominiums, built in 1920's. Several waterfront view rooms are long term renters; some rooms have kitchenettes; discounted seasonal midweek non-waterfront view rooms are a deal for the area.
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Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel - Pescadero
Location: 210 Pigeon Point Road, off Highway 1 just south of the town of Pescadero, Pigeon Point State Park
Why Go There? Adjacent to historic lighthouse on state park property, hostel features private and dorm rooms, shared bathrooms, kitchens in three separate buildings; optional (fee) use of outdoor hot tub overlooking the coastline. Spectacular views on clear days; overnight lodgers can miss park visitor crowds during early morning walks and lighthouse museum visits.
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HI-Santa Cruz Hostel - Santa Cruz
Location: 321 Main Street
Why Go There? Housed in historic Carmelita Cottages State Park, the charming, budget friendly lodging is within easy walking distance to downtown, Wharf area and historic West Cliff area; private/dorm rooms in several cottages, shared bathrooms, kitchen, donated food available for breakfast, social areas.
More Information: Santa Cruz Hostel