Babbling Brook Inn
About this bed and breakfast
While you're here, you can enjoy all the comforts of home and more, including a flat-screen TV and a garden, as well as a porch and heating. Other amenities include hypo-allergenic bedding, a pillowtop bed, towels, and a phone.
Amenities
Parking
Balcony / Patio
TV
Garden
Map of Santa Cruz, CA
Bed and Breakfast in Santa Cruz, CA
Reasons to book
Includes essentialsGarden, Parking, Balcony / Patio and more
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££££
Reviews
4.2/5.0
Excellent(947 Reviews)
5.0
We had a amazing time, absolutely loves it. But.... The stairs to our time are in much need of repairs. Other then that five stars and we look forward to returning.
8.0
Very cute storybook-esque inn. Our key was not in the lockbox, but staff was quick to arrive and provide us a key. Great customer service!
8.0
This was our second stay. Location and layout is still charming, but we missed the lovely breakfast they used to serve. Check in was through key box so zero interface with staff.
6.0
The front desk isn’t staffed except perhaps briefly in the morning, so you call someone to help. The place is sadly neglected and a bit damp and smelly, but has tons of potential and charm if someone sold just renovate it. Location is cute and the grounds are nice. In the phone the staff were helpful. It’s a unique property that is a bit rundown.
8.0
A wonderfully charming property! Doesn’t have “all the bells and whistles” — would be nice to have a fridge in the room, for example. However, the staff were very nice and the environment is gorgeous. Feels a bit like a village in a fantasy novel. My husband and I would stay there again, and definitely recommend it.
1.0
This place is riding of the coattails of what used to be. I’ve stayed here previously in 2019 and it was amazing. The rooms were old but it was all upkept very well. Staff was friendly and the free breakfast was nice.
My husband and I just had an overnight stay, and it was quite literally one of the worst experiences we’ve had at a hotel. First, we got an email saying our room was ready but when we arrived to check in we were told it was not ready and we needed to wait. Took about 45 minutes of waiting till we got to the room.
Then they put us in a room that we did NOT book. We booked the Tennyson but when we asked the front desk about it, all she said was that they no longer use that room at all and that apparently it’s broken down and gross. Whatever I guess, but later I found out that the room does exist and someone is staying in it. The woman in the room told us that she stays the overnight cause she’s part of the staff. Sure makes sense, but if the room wasn’t gonna be available why didn’t the hotel contact us ahead of time? And why did the front desk lady give me a total BS lie? Makes no sense.
Lastly, the room itself was HORRIBLE. Not at all what they are advertising with pictures on here. Do NOT be fooled. They put us in artist retreat, and it was gross and none of the antique furniture from the pics were present. Just a dirty couch that looked like it was found in a free yard giveaway.
Photo of room attached for reference. Compare it to the ads.
2.0
It was a rather relaxing stay, the pictures make it look bigger than what it is in the rooms, but the elegance make up for it.
3.0
When we arrived, there was no one at the property and we had gotten an email about how to access the key in the lock box, but the key to the gate was missing, and when I called to ask for someone to come help the person who responded was not very welcoming and made it seem that I was inconveniencing her by asking for the key. Finally, someone came and let us in, but when I called back to ask if they were going to bring us a key so that we’d be able to get it later she once again was very dismissive of my request. We never actually got a key to the front gate. They just left it open. In addition there were stains on the carpet in the room. Also, there were no bedside tables next to the bed so you had to put things on the floor if you wanted to be able to access them at night. I would not stay here again.
2.0
The room wasn’t anything like the picture on the website. It smelled like mildew, the rug was wet in places, and there were many bugs on the bed. Not bedbugs, looked more like termites. The beds weren’t made the next day and the TV didn’t work. There wasn’t an Innkeeper to talk to. All in all, a huge disappointment. I spent more than $150 more per night than another nice place to experience luxury. Didn’t happen.
1.0
There was no staff to greet us. I received a voicemail with brief instructions on how to check in. Room looked nothing like the photos. As soon as I went in, the room had a strong musty smell. There are chips and stains all along the walls and blinds. We decided to still stay the night since the room was expensive. I realized there were several areas in the room and bathroom that had black mold. I read a review that the guest’s sheets were stained. We decided to check our blankets and sure enough, there were a couple of odd stains. Everything was just so bad that we decided not to stay the night. It was $300 down the drain but we feel incredibly misled and cheated by the photos. Please read the most recent reviews and you’ll see that we were not the only ones who had this kind of experience.
1.0
This is the 2nd summer in a row we’ve stayed here. Last year we stayed in a different room and like it. This year we stayed in The Garden king size room. It smelled stuffy they had windows open the room had a slant kinda crooked floor and you feel it the Bed was so hard and uncomfortable. It was just so different from the other room. We always get in around 5 or 6 because we are at the beach. The service when I call to tell them and know what to do to check in when they are gone OMG both summers soooo Rude when I called I couldn’t believe this girl had a job there!?!? Anyway I probably will not stay next summer I think we will go somewhere new!
3.0
Upon arrival there is no one to personally greet you. I requested a ground floor room due to mobility limits for my husband. You must climb stairs to go anywhere on the property. There isn’t a elevator on site, this needs to be plainly mentioned on the website. This property cannot accommodate people with disabilities. My room was nicely decorated. My Son and his family’s room was terrible, it was musty and decorated nothing like photos on website. It was quite depressing so they spent most of their time in my room whenever we were at the property.
2.0
There was no Wi-Fi and the staff could not make it work. Our room was minute with no tables or lighting by the bed. It was charming and the little patio was nice but overall it was not a great stay. Wi-Fi was very important to us and the inn was advertised as having Wi-Fi. We should have been compensated for that lack.
1.0
Our room appeared to be in the middle of a renovation. All artwork and decoration was removed from the walls. The carpet had bleach stains, the screen in the only opening window didn’t quite fit, and although it was actually clean, it felt grubby. The jacuzzi tub did work which was it’s saving grace.
The front desk attendant was nice enough but had to go back and ask what was wrong with the Wi-Fi; their preprinted cards have the wrong password on them.
4.0
This was a cute and charming little room. Comfortable bed. The shower worked well but was in a tub, so hard to step in for old folks. Also many stairs to navigate with bags and no help. The manager was only available by phone or text. Attentive, but the only person we saw was the maid. She was helpful and pleasant however. There was a window that we couldn't close. It was a chilly night and the heater didn't work. We could hear the babbling brook which was nice.
1.0
We didn’t stay at the inn. Arrived, no one on property. Note at entrance said instructions had been emailed but the only thing sent was a QR code for Wi-Fi. Called # on note and waited about 30 minutes for return call to tell us how to open lockbox and get room key. Room was very musty and not at all as pictured. It was bare except for few pieces of furniture. I think we were the only guests and it felt creepy so we decided to go somewhere else. Grounds were pretty though and neighborhood good.
4.0
We love the atmosphere and surroundings at Babbling Brook. Although it needs a little more love and care we love the brook, the trees, and the secluded quaint tree-filled feel. Not like a stuffy chain hotel
1.0
The room was nothing like the example shown in the advertisement. There is nomination of the 50+ old wood stairs you have to climb up and down to get to and from your room. the floor in our room was so uneven so as to be a real danger. The step as you enter the room is a terrific hazard. The furnishings were old, ugly, sparse, and uninviting. The carpet was old, worn, and stained. The bathroom was newer and adequate.
The one positive was the housekeeper, Yolanda. When she was there she was very kind and helpful. There was no other attendant on the property so we were left to our on unitive should we need anything.
3.0
The Babbling Brook still offers the same cozy rooms with fireplaces as before the pandemic and the gardens around the rooms remain as relaxing as before.
We were very disappointed to see that the hotel has discontinued the delicious hot breakfasts and the afternoon wine and cheese that made the place magical.
1.0
I dont usually write reviews, but in this instance I feel it is necessary.
Clearly something has happened in the last couple of years, possibly a change in ownership during COVID, as this beautiful location has gone seriously downhill.
I visited this hotel back in 2018 and had an absolutely wonderful experience. Check in was very friendly and informative and offered complimentary cookies along with wine and cheese in the evening. The room was beautifuly decorated and clean, bed very comfortable. Impressive complimentary breakfast in the morning. All of this is expected at this high price point.
Now it is barely more than a low-tier Airbnb. Ive had better customer service at cheap motels. Upon arrival there is a lockbox which says to check your email for check in instructions, which I never received. Front desk is practically nonexistent, instead you are supposed to call a number for a random person who I’m guessing is the manager or owner. Our room was very barren with mismatched furniture, broken window blinds, and the wifi name and password on the room card both were wrong. We were texted a blurry picture with the wifi username and password, which worked but was VERY slow.
This hotel has become a scam, riding on its former reputation as one of Santa Cruz’s luxury hotels, with the price unchanged. We were seriously disappointed. I would stay anywhere else.
3.0
We came for our 20th anniversary.
We had been here before and enjoyed it. This time, we initially had a problem with the fireplace but that was quickly rectified. However, when I injured myself and could not get up the stairs to our room, they offered to move us to a first floor room and move all our belongings while I was at the emergency room! They are great!
Also, the rooms are comfortable and quiet. All are decorated differently.
1.0
This is hotel I’ve stayed multiple times at over the years. It’s very charming and the bones are all there.
Unfortunately the property has gone completely downhill. The host at the desk seemed irritated I was there to check in, not to mention she was essentially wearing pajamas.
The room was not very clean and essentially half of its functionality was broken. The girl handed me an info sheet with Wi-Fi password and fireplace info but neither worked. There was a light bulb flickering in the room, one entire window would not open (the handle was jammed / falling off). The bathroom was missing a bar of soap.
The property needs a lot of repairs and attention, and the prior host needs to return and relieve her teenage employee from the job she clearly despises.
For the price, it was completely unacceptable and I will not return until after some work has been done.
3.0
Super cute hotel and is a nice escape within the city. For someone who likes to sleep with a fan on, they had one in the room. Amazing! Internet was out and it did not get good cell reception.
5.0
This property is absolutely magical and enchanting. We love the location. The room was quiet and the sound of the brook was very relaxing. We stayed in the garden room near the front office. The room was adorable and well sized. There was a slight smell of mildew, but leaving the windows open for the day cleared most of it out and it was not as noticeable the next day. The staff was super friendly. We are excited to come back and try some of the different rooms as each looked uniquely charming from what we could see. Parking was easy and generally available.
5.0
Lovely place. I would stay here again
5.0
This is truly a gem. If you are looking for something unique and special this is definitely your spot. I cant wait to make it out there again just so we can stay here once more!
5.0
Wonderful getaway… I’ve already booked my next stay!!!
2.0
I have stayed at the beautiful property in the past, and I must admit that things have really changed. The location is beautiful and I love the themed rooms, but the room and furniture need a lot of upgrades. They used to walk you to your room, but this time I was given a very small laminated map that I couldn’t read. The curtains were gone and the shower curtain was ripped. The charm is gone, and that was so appealing before. Housekeeping knocked on my door at 8:30am on the day I was checking out, which was strange. I tried to leave my key at the front desk, and no one was there. When I called the number that was posted it went to a mobile home park. I called a second time and was give a code for a lockbox to drop off the key. They never checked my ID and I didn’t sign anything. As a single traveler, it also concerned me that there was no chain to lock on the inside. I’ve stayed at this property 3 other times and loved it, so I hope they can improve. The jacuzzi tub and fireplace are amazing and is great for relaxing.
5.0
The property is beautiful and it’s close to everything I wanted to enjoy about Santa cruz. The staff is friendly and good about giving you your space. I will go again!
2.0
I was unable to reach ANYone for 2 1/2 days! despite a ridiculous phone message saying the office is open (it isn't) "from 8 AM to 10 PM. Consequently, ater I paid $560 for two rooms -- I really needed to talk with some staffer about where (and if!) to place an elder with mobility problems.....in a NICE (not dark/dungeon oriented) room. One of our rooms was great, but the one that mattered - that for the elder - was incredibly dark, poorly furnished and with a super questionable bathroom. I complained with I got to the property (the office totally dark/closed in mid-afternoon), and found a young woman walking about -- if not rude, then utterly unconcerned on any level with my experience.
2.0
The property garden itself was beautiful but the rooms need some updating. There was no staff when I arrived, so as a solo traveler this felt a little creepy. There were also no other guests so it seemed a little Erie, I ended up begging my partner to come stay the night with me. Website also promises wine and cookies, there were no amenities besides coffee in the room, and no one around to ask about the amenities.
Beautiful property, good location and with charming gardens, but needs staff and updating.
5.0
Absolutely beautiful property 💗
2.0
Very unique concept property, running brook, like a village set in a river basin, nice garden spaces.
Property looked tired, rooms need refurbishment, lobby not open, contact with manager only by phone or email, no food service, still in Covid mode, needed a work desk in room, cost not justified by experience.
3.0
This is not the babbling brook of yester year. The landscaping is still lovely. However, the rooms and buildings are in need of repair and updating. There were no staff members seen during our stay. No breakfast - no evening reception. Prices were cheaper but probably still too much for the experience. A little TLC would go a long way
1.0
The Garden Room did not look like the photo on their website! All the charming decorative amenities were gone: there was no dust ruffle or window valence, no throw blanket on the bed. There was no couch or bureau. The window blinds were dingy and scratched. The floor was so dangerously warped that my husband almost fell. The bathroom was grim. The vanity, baseboard and walls needed painting, the faucets were old and dull. It took so long to get hot water that I stoped waiting for it to warm up and washed my face and hands in cold water. We booked for a two night stay and spent over $600.00 for a substandard room. And finally, we received instruction on how to access the room a day AFTER our arrival. We had to call to get someone to let us in. Very Disappointing!
1.0
Good location and very pretty outdoor atmosphere but room was old, musty, not the same as the photos displayed at all. Beds were uncomfortable. Shower did not work and only cold water came out of bath faucet. Not worth the rice we paid.
5.0
Our room was clean and quiet.The babbling Brook made you feel like you were in the mountain in cabin instead being in the middle downtain Santa Cruz. Property was located where you able go any direction to to dine, go to the beach, and other area you like to go. My only problem was the room only had one chair to seat in. Didn't seem right since a couple would be staying the night.
2.0
We didn't stay there. I called with questions twice before the stay and it went to voicemail; my calls were never returned. I became concerned and looked at reviews on other travel sites and they were so appalling I cancelled the reservation. To their credit, they at least didn't charge me for the cancellation.
5.0
Gorgeous site and room. Quiet. Peaceful. Wish staff were on site.
1.0
The property is lovely beyond words but the room was not nice. My sheets were dirty - maybe a stain but didn’t check that close. The property is dated and needs upgrades. The floor was very warped and caused me to trip a few times. The front desk lady wasn’t friendly. I would not go back.
FAQs
How much does this bed and breakfast cost compared to others in Santa Cruz?
The average price for a rental in Santa Cruz is £194 per night. This rental is £1 less expensive than the average.
Is parking included with this bed and breakfast?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Babbling Brook Inn. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this bed and breakfast?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this bed and breakfast. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Babbling Brook Inn pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this bed and breakfast is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Babbling Brook Inn?
We found 4 amenities for this rental. This includes parking, balcony / patio, tv, and garden.
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