Which hotel ?

Question

Super 8

Howard Johnsons

I know both are slummy but can get them for free vs $500 + for something decent. Just need a place to crash one night and visit the boardwalk for Lost Boys movie and some fun.

Both hotels seem walking distance and have free parking. Both get mixed reviews as expected but leaning towards Super 8 as it’s clear to the Boardwalk and we had dinner on the wharf a few weeks ago.

Any tips on Lost Boys movie night appreciated too! We love that movie and can’t pass up the chance to see it here.

Answer

It sounds like you're looking for a budget-friendly option for a quick stay near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and both Super 8 and Howard Johnson are definitely economical choices. Since you're aiming to just crash for the night and enjoy the boardwalk, here's a breakdown of both options:

Super 8: This hotel is closer to the boardwalk and may be a better option if your main goal is convenience. It's only a short walk to the boardwalk, which will make it easy to pop back to your room if you need a quick break between activities. While the hotel itself gets mixed reviews, it offers free parking and is generally considered a more budget-friendly option. If you don’t mind basic accommodations and just need somewhere to sleep, Super 8 could be your best bet. Also, being close to the Boardwalk means you won’t need to drive or deal with parking, which can be a big plus in busy areas like Santa Cruz.

Howard Johnson: Howard Johnson is another budget-friendly option but might be slightly further from the boardwalk depending on its location. If it’s a bit farther, you may need to deal with more walking or driving. Similar to Super 8, reviews are mixed, but Howard Johnson is generally known for offering more consistent basic accommodations. If parking is important and you don’t mind a slightly longer walk or drive, this could be a solid choice as well.

Lost Boys Movie Night: The Lost Boys screening on the boardwalk sounds like a fun event, especially if you’re a fan of the movie! It's a great way to enjoy the film and the nostalgic connection to Santa Cruz. Here are a few tips:

Arrive Early: While the event is probably casual, it’s best to get there early to grab a good spot and enjoy the atmosphere. Seating might be limited depending on how crowded the event is.
Bring Layers: Even in summer, it can get chilly by the ocean in the evening, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket or blanket to stay comfortable during the movie.
Snacks and Drinks: While you can likely get snacks and drinks at the boardwalk, you might also want to bring your own picnic snacks to enjoy while watching the film.
Check Event Times: Be sure to verify the movie start time and location ahead of time, as events like these can sometimes have schedule changes or be canceled due to weather.

Conclusion: If being as close as possible to the boardwalk is your priority, Super 8 is probably the better choice. It offers the convenience of walking distance and easy access to the boardwalk, which is ideal for your plans. Howard Johnson could be a good alternative if you want a slightly different experience, but based on your description, it sounds like Super 8 is a good fit.

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