Fairfield Inn And Suites

"Great fun, great location and great decor!"

I guess I kind of left my review in the description part.  This hotel is great though.  It is outside of the hustle and bustle of Santa Cruz but close enough to make the trip quick and easy to the Boardwalk.  The downtown Capitola area and beach are beautiful (although a little crowded on the weekends) and very family friendly.  The drive to Monterey (which we made yesterday) is quick (about 45 minutes) and beautiful and goes through farmland (with great roadside stands), Moss Landing, and many beach areas.  The hotel itself is beautiful - brand new with sea-themed decor, a really nice outdoor pool and jacuzzi, a unique bocce ball court, an exercise center and a nice outdoor patio for eating.  In three weeks they will be opening a lounge with a small bar in the evenings for guests.  They also have a business center.  The rooms are large, with a divider between the sleeping area and living area and two large TVs, a small fridge, a microwave and a spacious bathroom.  They serve a free breakfast in the mornings that includes make-your-own waffles, fresh oatmeal, cereal, fruit, pastries and muffins and good coffee.  You can eat outside on the terrace and enjoy the ocean air!  

The only drawback I see is the lack of an on-site restaurant or room service, but they are within walking distance of a few family-friendly eating places and a short drive from a ton of them.  We got pizza delivered from the local Round Table last night and it was hot and delish!  

About the only drawback I see