Suggestions on hotel in Santa Cruz area??

Hey guys any suggestions on places to stay in the Santa Cruz area? Trying to get out there for some r&r for my birthday on 12/16 any suggestions trying to stay cheap but not the ghetto  been there a couple times but thought i would ask to see if any input i could get would help. Thanks guys Happy Holidays!!!!

Tbone, check out Capitola Inn. Not sure what the rates are going for around here right now but I do know that some of the other hotels have winter rates. Ill keep an eye out.

despite living here I don't know much about the hotels. If you want to stay on the far westside (near natural Bridges) I have had family stay at the Sunset Inn. Not fancy, but it was clean enough for both sides of the family. They ofer a AAA discount.
I would stay away from the places on Ocean street, they are cheap but there's just too much shadiness on Ocean between the highway and boardwalk.

I would stay away from the places on Ocean street, they are cheap but there's just too much shadiness on Ocean between the highway and boardwalk.

unless you're a drug dealer, gang banger or pimp.  Then its a great spot 

Cap Inn is fine for what you want, waters close, food is close, or if on the west side, Id take Seans advice.

I 2nd avoiding the ocean St area

For budget but decent, I second the Sunset Inn on Mission -I've had relatives stay there, there's eats nearby too. 
But you might want to check the rates not only the Capitola Inn, but the new Fairfield Inn on 41st, they are both upscale, but especially the new one might want to fill rooms.

The new Fairfield hotel has some cool rooms, much nicer then Cap Inn, had a friend stay there a month ago....

Thanks for the input guys ive spoke with a couple people and am still trying to decide hmmmmmmm...wish i could bring the yak but oh well i will enjoy this much needed vaca.

Was thinking, we love to go to Tahoe for a vacation, and your coming to SC for a vacation...  Maybe we should house swap sometime 

AL that could work we should try that sometime.

When you coming into town, Fri?

whats up Randy coming down on the 16th for my birthday

Since you say Santa Cruz area, Seacliff Inn in Aptos is nice.  Its got a decent restaurant/bar, nice Koi pond, pool and walking distance to the cement ship and beach.  The other place on this side of town that is more pricy but on the cliffs looking across at Santa Cruz is Seascape Resort.  Very cozy place. 

This place looks pretty nice week day specials, Buy 1 nite get 1 free  http://www.westcliffinn.com/specials.htm

This place is less than 100 dollars and is a short walk to the boardwalk, wharf, west cliff and downtown:

http://www.theoceanpacificlodge.com/