Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk Santa Cruz Exterior photoTorch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk Santa Cruz Exterior photoTorch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk Santa Cruz Exterior photo
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From81US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Property overview

500 Riverside Avenue, Santa Cruz, California, United States, 95060
-
Close to the beach
Very good
7.7
7.7
/10
2.4
2.7
/5

Torch Lite Inn: Rooms

Torch Lite Inn at the Beach Boardwalk offers 38 air-conditioned rooms. Rooms include a 40-inch LCD TV with HBO film channels, a work desk, and a coffee machine. Each room is equipped with a private bathroom including a shower, hairdryer, and free toiletries. Conveniences include phones, desks, and microwaves. All rooms feature air conditioning, complimentary WiFi, and cable TV. Premium bedding and parquet floors are included. Upon request, guests can have a microwave and a refrigerator in their rooms.

Dining at Torch Lite

A complimentary breakfast is served daily from 7 AM. Guests can find restaurants near the hotel.

Leisure and Activities

Torch Lite Inn features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a terrace. Guests can experience activities such as kayaking, water skiing, hiking/biking trails, and mountain biking. Cowell's Beach is near the premises. The hotel is a 10-minute walk from Main Beach.

Location and Access

Located in Santa Cruz, Torch Lite Inn at the Beach Boardwalk is near the Boardwalk Bowl, Cocoanut Grove, and Sky Glider. The Museum of History & Art at the McPherson Center, Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History (1 km), Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse (2 km), Beach Flats Community Garden (0.3 km), Santa Cruz Surfing Museum (2 km), Mike Fox Skate Park (0.3 km), Santa Cruz Wharf (1 km), Well Within Spa (0.5 km), Pacific Garden Mall (1 km), Museum of Art and History (1 km), Tea House Spa (0.5 km) are nearby. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport is 55 km away. San Jose International Airport is a 40-minute drive away.

Hotel Services

Torch Lite Inn features free WiFi throughout the property, a 24-hour front desk, express check-in/check-out, and laundry facilities. Complimentary newspapers are available in the lobby.

“This Santa Cruz motel presents a clean, recently updated stay within walking distance of the boardwalk, a practical choice for those prioritizing location and value. Remodeled rooms feature functional amenities like strong water pressure and effective air conditioning. While some reports mention noise and cleanliness issues, the refreshed interiors and proximity to the beach could make it a worthwhile option for budget-conscious travelers.”
Hotel logo
Michael TurnerEditor, UsCalifornia
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Choose your preferred room

The property features double rooms, family rooms, and suites, often including breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers
King Room
2 persons
295 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room
2 persons
305 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Heating

Calendar of room availability and rates

See current availability and pricing for your dates

Facilities

Amenities are designed to ensure comfort and memorable stays
Facilities: Very good
7.7/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Golf course

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Garden furniture

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
Show more

Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk Location

500 Riverside Avenue, Santa Cruz, California, United States, 95060
Map view
500 Riverside Avenue, Santa Cruz, California, United States, 95060
Nearby
Raymond St
Beach Flats Community Garden
600 ft
299 San Lorenzo Boulevard
Mike Fox Skate Park
600 ft
Restaurants
Firefly Coffee House
2300 ft
131 Front St # A # A
Fire Fly Cafe
1900 ft
131 Front St # A # A
India Joze
2300 ft
418 Front Street
Yan Flower
2800 ft
617 Pacific Ave
El Hermoso Mar
2300 ft
313 Beach St
Falafel Hut
2400 ft
309 Beach St
Loard's Ice Cream
2500 ft
307 Beach St
Tacos Moreno
2500 ft
303 Beach St
Pizza My Heart
2800 ft
1116 Pacific Ave Ste B
The Sandwich Spot
2500 ft
1010 Pacific Ave
Explore Santa Cruz
Explore Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
18 minutes walking
Classic amusement park with rides, games, and beach access. A must-visit for family fun and thrilling attractions.
Santa Cruz Wharf
18 minutes walking
Scenic pier offering stunning views, local shops, and dining options. Great for sea life spotting and leisurely strolls.
Museum of Art and History
15 minutes walking
Showcases local art and history with rotating exhibitions. Free admission days enhance its accessibility for all.
Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
15 minutes walking
Focuses on the natural history of the area, featuring interactive exhibits and stunning local artifacts for curious minds.
Surfing Lessons at Cowell Beach
15 minutes walking
Thrilling surfing lessons available for all skill levels. Rentals and guided sessions ensure a safe, energetic experience.
Yoga at the Beach
15 minutes walking
Relaxing beach yoga sessions promote wellness and tranquility amidst stunning coastline views. Classes offered throughout the week.
Firefly Coffee House
9 minutes walking
Charming café offering coffee and fresh pastries with a community vibe. Great for quick bites or leisurely mornings.
India Joze
9 minutes walking
Authentic Indian cuisine with a cozy atmosphere. Signature dishes include flavorful curries; vegetarian options available.
The Catalyst
15 minutes walking
Lively venue hosting live music and entertainment. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse performances.
Santa Cruz Comedy Club
15 minutes walking
Comedy venue featuring local and touring comedians. Regular shows provide laughter-filled nights suitable for all ages.
Local transportation
City Centre
Santa Cruz10 min  ·  2700 ft
Airports
Mineta San Jose International (SJC)81 min  ·  33.4 mi
Monterey Peninsula (MRY)102 min  ·  42.0 mi
Bus
Bus stop2 min  ·  400 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.  There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
38

Guest ratings and reviews

Guest feedback from past stays
Review score
Based on 596 verified reviews
7.6/10
Very good
72%
Recommend
Breakfast
7.4/10
Cleanliness
8.0/10
Comfort
8.0/10
Facilities
7.7/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.4/10
Location
8.6/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.1/10
Staff
8.5/10
Value for money
8.0/10
Pros
Close boardwalk
Free parking
Great room design
Cons
Dirty bathroom
False advertisement
Stained bed cover
Guest reviews
based on 118 reviews
3/5
based on 1341 reviews
7.7/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
FAQs
About Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk
What time is check-in and check-out at Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
Is parking available at Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk?
Private parking is available on-site free of charge, but reservations are needed.
How far is Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk from the nearest airport?
The hotel is 55 km from Mineta San Jose International Airport.
What are the nearby attractions to Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk?
Nearby attractions include Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (0.5 km), Santa Cruz Wharf (1 km), and Seabright State Beach (2 km).
What amenities are offered in the rooms at Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk?
Rooms include air conditioning, a 40-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels, a coffee machine, and complimentary toiletries.
Does Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk provide free Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
What dining options are available near Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk?
Nearby restaurants include Saturn Cafe (0.5 km), Surf Dog Santa Cruz (0.5 km), and Taco Bell (0.5 km).
What recreational activities can guests enjoy at Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk?
Guests can enjoy a seasonal outdoor pool and activities such as kayaking and hiking nearby.
Is smoking allowed at Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk?
The hotel is a smoke-free property.
What services does Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk offer for business travelers?
The hotel provides express check-in and check-out services.
Is breakfast included during a stay at Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk?
A complimentary breakfast is served daily from 07:00.

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