A beach with a Ferris wheel and amusement park rides in the background.

Hotels in Santa Cruz

Where to?

Dates

November 2026

10

December 2026

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight

10 Nov - 11 Nov

Tomorrow

11 Nov - 12 Nov

This weekend

13 Nov - 15 Nov

Next weekend

20 Nov - 22 Nov

Where to stay in Santa Cruz?

Properties are selected based on real traveller reviews and popularity among guests who’ve booked a night in Santa Cruz on Hotels.com. These Santa Cruz hotels consistently deliver on quality, location and traveller experience. Last updated on 10 November 2026.

A wooden interior with large windows overlooking a beach.

1. La Bahia Hotel and Spa

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

A spacious lobby with a modern design, featuring a central seating area with sofas and chairs, surrounded by trees and hanging lights.

2. Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

Downtown Monterey

includes taxes & fees

29 Nov - 30 Nov

An outdoor seating area with round tables and chairs, string lights overhead, and a large tree in the center.

3. Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

15 Nov - 16 Nov

A hot tub with a metal ladder, surrounded by greenery and a concrete deck.

4. Ocean Pacific Lodge

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

10 Dec - 11 Dec

An outdoor deck with wicker furniture and a large umbrella, overlooking a beach and pier.

5. Casablanca On The Beach

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

30 Nov - 1 Dec

A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a desk with a chair, a TV, and a small table.

6. Seaside Inn & Suites

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

A beach view with a sign for Marea Sol Hotel, palm trees, and a pier with boats.

7. Marea Sol Hotel

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

A modern lobby with a wooden floor, seating area, large windows, and a plant.

8. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

17 Nov - 18 Nov

A spacious indoor area with wicker furniture, large windows offering a view of the beach and ocean, and a surf shop sign.

9. Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

8 Dec - 9 Dec

A modern hotel room with a kitchenette, a bed, a desk, and a view of the outdoors.

10. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

24 Nov - 25 Nov

An outdoor seating area with fire pits and string lights, surrounded by a building with multiple windows and a palm tree.

11. Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

15 Nov - 16 Nov

A Courtyard by Marriott hotel with outdoor seating, a fire pit, and potted plants.

12. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

12 Nov - 13 Nov

A man and a woman standing in a hallway with a patterned floor and a staircase with geometric designs.

13. Chaminade Resort & Spa

Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

22 Nov - 23 Nov

A spacious lobby with a stone accent wall, a reception desk, a seating area with a coffee table, and a staircase.

14. Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

15 Nov - 16 Nov

A hotel room with a large bed, a bathroom with a bathtub, and a wooden floor.

15. Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

6 Dec - 7 Dec

A building with a yellow facade, a covered outdoor area with a palm tree, and a large flowering bush.

16. Mission Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

A rectangular swimming pool with clear water, marked lanes, and a metal ladder.

17. Surf City Inn and Suites

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

29 Nov - 30 Nov

A lakeside hotel with outdoor seating and a bridge over the water.

18. Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Aptos

includes taxes & fees

19 Nov - 20 Nov

A hotel with multiple balconies overlooking a body of water, outdoor seating areas, and a well-lit entrance.

19. Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

New Monterey

includes taxes & fees

2 Dec - 3 Dec

A balcony with rows of beach chairs, a railing, and a view of the beach and ocean.

20. Beach Street Inn and Suites

Westside Santa Cruz

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A spacious lobby with a stone accent wall, a reception desk, a seating area with a coffee table, and a staircase.

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Santa Cruz

Mobile Price £12 off

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

A wooden interior with large windows overlooking a beach.

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

Westside Santa Cruz

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

A beach with rocky cliffs and a clear view of the ocean.

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

Eastside Santa Cruz

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

A large, two-story building with a balcony and a porch, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn.

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

£50 off

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

A rustic wooden cabin with a stone staircase leading up to a wooden deck, surrounded by dense forest and a flowing stream.

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

Boulder Creek

£14 off

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

A spacious indoor area with wicker furniture, large windows offering a view of the beach and ocean, and a surf shop sign.

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

£22 off

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

A spacious lobby with a stone accent wall, a reception desk, a seating area with a coffee table, and a staircase.

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Santa Cruz

Mobile Price £12 off

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

A beach with rocky cliffs and a clear view of the ocean.

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

Eastside Santa Cruz

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

A large, two-story building with a balcony and a porch, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn.

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

£60 off

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

A rustic wooden cabin with a stone staircase leading up to a wooden deck, surrounded by dense forest and a flowing stream.

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

Boulder Creek

£8 off

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

A spacious lobby with a stone accent wall, a reception desk, a seating area with a coffee table, and a staircase.

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Santa Cruz

Mobile Price £28 off

for 2 nights, 1 room

£129 per night

includes taxes & fees

A large, two-story building with a balcony and a porch, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn.

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

£144 off

for 2 nights, 1 room

£235 per night

includes taxes & fees

A wooden interior with large windows overlooking a beach.

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

Westside Santa Cruz

for 2 nights, 1 room

£344 per night

includes taxes & fees

A beach with rocky cliffs and a clear view of the ocean.

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

Eastside Santa Cruz

£26 off

for 2 nights, 1 room

£218 per night

includes taxes & fees

Best value hotels in Santa Cruz

Get more from your budget at these hotels, based on amenities, reviews, and location

A rustic wooden cabin with a stone staircase leading up to a wooden deck, surrounded by dense forest and a flowing stream.

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

Boulder Creek

Free parking

Travellers love the balcony and cleanliness at good value for money.

includes taxes & fees

3 Dec - 4 Dec

An outdoor patio with round tables and chairs, a stone fireplace, and a railing.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA

Westside Santa Cruz

Free breakfast
Free parking
Pool
Gym

Travellers love the added value of the free breakfast and cleanliness.

includes taxes & fees

15 Nov - 16 Nov

A modern lobby with a wooden floor, seating area, large windows, and a plant.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

Free breakfast
Pool
Gym
24/7 front desk

Free breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a fitness centre make the stay great value.

includes taxes & fees

17 Nov - 18 Nov

View all properties

Check out pet-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz

A hot tub with a metal ladder, surrounded by greenery and a concrete deck.

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

10 Dec - 11 Dec

An outdoor seating area with round tables and chairs, string lights overhead, and a large tree in the center.

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

15 Nov - 16 Nov

A lakeside hotel with outdoor seating and a bridge over the water.

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Aptos

includes taxes & fees

19 Nov - 20 Nov

View all properties

You may also like hotels with hot tubs in Santa Cruz

A hot tub with a metal ladder, surrounded by greenery and a concrete deck.

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

10 Dec - 11 Dec

An outdoor seating area with round tables and chairs, string lights overhead, and a large tree in the center.

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

15 Nov - 16 Nov

A spacious living area with a stone fireplace, green walls, and a large window.

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites

Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

16 Nov - 17 Nov

An outdoor patio with round tables and chairs, a stone fireplace, and a railing.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

15 Nov - 16 Nov

A lakeside hotel with outdoor seating and a bridge over the water.

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Aptos

includes taxes & fees

19 Nov - 20 Nov

View all properties

Go beyond your typical stay in Santa Cruz

pet-friendly image

hot tub image

Our prices for hotels in Santa Cruz are cheapest in April

Top neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

A clock tower, a church, and residential buildings in a hilly town.

Downtown Santa Cruz

City centre Santa Cruz pulses with artistic energy and laid-back surf vibes along the pedestrian-friendly Pacific Avenue. Street musicians serenade shoppers while colourful murals brighten historic Victorian buildings. Bookworms browse indie shops before catching films at the vintage Del Mar Theatre, all within walking distance of the famous Beach Boardwalk. Farm-to-table restaurants and quirky cafes dot the tree-lined streets where locals and visitors mingle freely. Most accommodation feature boutique hotels and charming B&Bs in historic buildings, perfectly positioned for car-free exploration of both city centre and nearby beaches.

A marina with numerous sailboats docked, surrounded by buildings and trees.

Seabright

Seabright's sun-kissed shoreline beckons with golden sands stretching between Santa Cruz Harbour and the iconic Beach Boardwalk. Families splash in the calm waters of Harbour Beach while adventurous types catch waves at Seabright Beach. The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History offers a fascinating glimpse into coastal ecology when you need a break from the sun. Local cafes serve fresh seafood with ocean views just steps from charming beach cottages and holiday rentals. The neighborhood's flat streets make exploring on foot or bike a breeze, with most attractions within easy walking distance. At sunset, join locals for peaceful beach strolls as the perfect end to your day.

A natural rock arch formation on a beach with waves crashing below.

Westside Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz blends laid-back beach vibes with artsy energy along Mission Street's corridor of craft breweries, vintage surf shops, and indie bookshops. Catch legendary waves at Steamer Lane or watch seals from the iconic Lighthouse Point. Natural Bridges State Beach offers stunning tide pools and a seasonal monarch butterfly sanctuary that feels worlds away from the boardwalk crowds. Beach bungalows and Victorian cottages house charming B&Bs and holiday rentals throughout the area. Getting around is best done on foot or bike via dedicated lanes, with limited bus service connecting to city centre every half hour. Grab breakfast burritos at local cafes before hitting the surf or exploring the coastal trails.

A white lighthouse with a green top, surrounded by large rocks and people.

Eastside Santa Cruz

Eastside Santa Cruz delivers a laid-back beach town vibe with a college twist. Twin Lakes State Beach and Seabright Beach invite you to dig your toes in the sand. Arana Gulch's coastal trails and DeLaveaga Park's disc golf course offer perfect outdoor escapes. The nearby UC Santa Cruz campus adds youthful energy with cultural events open to visitors. The area boasts casual cafés where you can fuel up before hitting the trails. Most visitors find holiday rentals in quiet residential areas rather than hotels. Getting around requires a car or bike since public transit is limited, but the peaceful streets and gorgeous Monterey Bay views make it worth the effort.

A crowded beach with numerous boats and people.

Pleasure Point

Surfers, sun-seekers, and wave-watchers find their happy place at Pleasure Point, Santa Cruz's quintessential beach area. Watch pro surfers tackle legendary breaks from the East Cliff Drive scenic overlook, or join the action yourself at The Hook. The clifftop Pleasure Point Park offers perfect picnic spots with sweeping ocean panoramas, while sandy coves below invite barefoot wandering through fascinating tide pools. The area serves up casual beach town vibes with locally-owned cafes specialising in fish tacos and acai bowls. Holiday rentals and boutique inns provide the perfect home base for early-morning surf sessions. Getting around is easiest on foot along coastal paths or by bike on dedicated lanes.

Top landmarks in Santa Cruz

A beachside amusement park with a Ferris wheel, a roller coaster, and a building with a red roof.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

8.8/10 (6,089 reviews)

Children and adults alike can have a thrilling day at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, one of the top theme parks located 1.1 mi (1.7 km) from central Santa Cruz. If you have fun at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, you'll love Boardwalk Bowl and Sky Glider, both a short walk away.

A historic half-timbered building with a stone facade, surrounded by trees and a red brick sidewalk.

Ocean Street

8.6/10 (1,332 reviews)

If you want to give your credit card some exercise, head out to Ocean Street in Westside Santa Cruz. Hotels.com travellers also say the area is full of friendly people and that it has lots of nice beaches. It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander. Splash some more cash at Pacific Avenue and Pacific Garden Mall.

University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum

8.4/10 (103 reviews)

Ready for an education in local botany? University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum should make your list of places to visit, located 1.5 mi (2.5 km) from central Santa Cruz. Hotels.com travellers also say the area is walkable and that it has lots of nice beaches. Want to stretch your legs a little more? Head to University Terrace Dog Park, just a short walk away.

Santa Cruz and related destinations

Catch the California surf culture vibe at Steamer Lane, where locals ride waves with impressive nonchalance. The historic Beach Boardwalk delivers nostalgic thrills on the Giant Dipper roller coaster, a wooden marvel terrifying riders since 1924. Natural Bridges State Beach offers tide pools teeming with marine life beneath its iconic rock formation. The laid-back city centre along Pacific Avenue mixes surf shops with indie bookshops and coffee houses where students debate environmental policy. At sunset, join locals at Main Beach watching silhouettes of surfers against the golden horizon. For a quieter experience, explore the redwood-shaded paths of UC Santa Cruz, where deer wander with the same casual confidence as the skateboarding students.

See all hotels in Santa Cruz

A beach with a Ferris wheel and amusement park rides in the background.

Check out reviews of Santa Cruz hotels guests love

A spacious indoor area with wicker furniture, large windows offering a view of the beach and ocean, and a surf shop sign.

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

United Kingdom

Mark

A library with bookshelves, a chandelier, and a fireplace.

Inn at Depot Hill

Capitola

10/10 Exceptional

United Kingdom

Julie

A wicker chair with a brown cushion, overlooking a balcony with a white railing, palm trees, and a view of the ocean.

Monarch Cove Inn

Capitola

10/10 Exceptional

United Kingdom

T

A spacious living area with a stone fireplace, green walls, and a large window.

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites

Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

United Kingdom

David

A cozy cabin interior with wooden walls, a sofa, a bench, and large windows offering a view of the forest.

Fern River Resort

Felton

10/10 Exceptional

United Kingdom

Alistair

A balcony with two chairs, a small table with a vase of flowers, and a view of a parking lot and amusement park.

Carousel Beach Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

United Kingdom

Emma

An outdoor seating area with round tables and chairs, string lights overhead, and a large tree in the center.

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Westside Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

46 and 48 year old couple from the UK: I booked this hotel as part of a trip we are doing down the west coast. Keeping our hotel costs to a minimum we booked to stay here for 1 night with no real expectations. From our arrival to leaving we have been really impressed from start to finish. Highlights include Early check in and upgraded room Complimetary drinks in the evening Smore kits for in the evening Hire/borrow beach equipment Free coffee at breakfast AMAZING bed. Probably the most comfy...

United Kingdom

carlie

An outdoor patio with round tables and chairs, a stone fireplace, and a railing.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA

Westside Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

United Kingdom

Mark David

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Santa Cruz?

You can find top hotels in Santa Cruz from £61 with options to suit your budget and needs. Ocean Pacific Lodge and Beachview Inn are a couple of low-cost options that are popular with our travellers. If you're looking for an affordable hotel in Santa Cruz that meets all of your requirements, just sort hotels by "Price: low to high" after applying your filters when searching on Hotels.com.

How can I find deals and earn rewards at Santa Cruz hotels?

Discover great deals on Santa Cruz hotel stays with Hotels.com. It's also a good idea to look at hotel prices mid-week or during the low season as you're likely to find off-peak deals. If it's a spontaneous trip, check out our last-minute deals on Santa Cruz hotels.

Can I book Santa Cruz hotels with free cancellation?

To book a refundable Santa Cruz hotel on Hotels.com, just filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property". Most hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel. Some hotels do require cancelling more than 24 hours before check-in, so double-check your booking beforehand.

What are the top-rated luxury hotels in Santa Cruz?

One of the most popular luxury hotels in Santa Cruz is La Bahia Hotel and Spa. La Bahia Hotel and Spa is a luxury hotel with a high guest rating amongst our travellers, and it offers an outdoor pool, a full-service spa and a hot tub.

What are some of the best Santa Cruz beach hotels?

For a beachy holiday in Santa Cruz, Natural Bridges State Park, Santa Cruz Main Beach, and Seabright Beach are some of the best places to visit. Stay at a top-rated Santa Cruz beach hotel and make the most of your holiday. Check out Dream Inn Santa Cruz in Westside Santa Cruz if you're after a resort that's near the water. With a beach and guestrooms offering balconies, our travellers rate it highly at 9.4 out of 10.

What are some top pet-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz?

Our travellers' favourite pet-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz include:

La Bahia Hotel and Spa: A hotel in Westside Santa Cruz with a guest rating of 9.6 out of 10
Dream Inn Santa Cruz: A resort in Westside Santa Cruz with a guest rating of 9.4
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection: A hotel in Westside Santa Cruz with a guest rating of 8.8

You can also use the "Amenities" filter in your search on Hotels.com and check "Pet friendly" to discover more pet-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz.

What are some of the best hotels in Santa Cruz for couples?

Enjoy your couple's retreat with a stay at a top-rated Santa Cruz romantic hotel. Our travellers love La Bahia Hotel and Spa, a hotel in Westside Santa Cruz with 3 restaurants as well as a chef service. Another romantic hotel with top reviews is Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection. This hotel can be found in Westside Santa Cruz with a restaurant and an outdoor pool for a perfect stay. Use the "Traveller experience" filter in your search and select "Adults only" or "Romantic" to find even more hotels in Santa Cruz for couples on Hotels.com.

What are some of the best kid-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz?

Some of the best Santa Cruz hotels for kids include Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, and Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz is a kid-friendly hotel in Westside Santa Cruz with a guest score of 8.6 out of 10, offering family-friendly amenities like a beach (direct access) and an outdoor pool, plus free cots in guestrooms. Check out La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz in Westside Santa Cruz with a guest score of 9.2. This popular hotel has an outdoor pool and a free buffet breakfast, as well as free cots in the guestrooms. Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection is another good option in Westside Santa Cruz with an outdoor pool and a hot tub, plus free cots in the guestrooms. Find even more kid-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz by using our "Family friendly" filter on Hotels.com when you search.

What are the top Santa Cruz hotels with a pool?

Discover some of the best Santa Cruz hotels with a pool for a little extra luxury on your trip. Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection is a great hotel in Westside Santa Cruz with an outdoor pool and a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley is a popular hotel that features an outdoor pool along with a hot tub. You can select "Pool" in the "Amenities" filter of your search on Hotels.com to find even more places to stay in Santa Cruz with a pool.

What are some of the best Santa Cruz hotels with free parking?

If you're arriving by car, choosing a great Santa Cruz hotel with free parking is a plus. Our travellers' favourites include:

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA: A hotel in Westside Santa Cruz with an average guest rating of 9 out of 10
Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites: A hotel with an average guest rating of 9.2
West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn: A bed & breakfast in Westside Santa Cruz with an average guest rating of 9.2

What are some popular hotels in central Santa Cruz?

For hotels in central Santa Cruz, check out Capitola Hotel and Dream Inn Santa Cruz. Travellers love Capitola Hotel for its location, as well as the free continental breakfast, snack bar/deli and concierge services this hotel offers. Dream Inn Santa Cruz is another popular central resort with a beach, an outdoor pool and a full-service spa. Stay at one of these hotels for easy access to top sights like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Capitola Beach. Westside Santa Cruz and Eastside Santa Cruz are some of the most central areas for your Santa Cruz holiday.

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Discover Santa Cruz: A Coastal Haven of Thrills and Tranquillity

Nestled along California's stunning coastline, Santa Cruz is a vibrant blend of beach charm and natural beauty. Famous for its iconic boardwalk and thrilling rides, the city offers an array of family-friendly attractions. Wander through the lush trails of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park or relax on the golden sands of Main Beach. The bustling downtown is alive with unique shops and delightful eateries, while the Santa Cruz Wharf invites leisurely strolls and fresh seafood feasts. Perfect for both adventure seekers and romantic getaways, Santa Cruz promises unforgettable experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Discover great hotels near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers a variety of hotel accommodations, ranging from charming boutique hotels to well-known chains. You'll find comfortable stays with friendly service, ideal for relaxing after exploring the stunning coastline and vibrant local culture. Whether you seek budget-friendly options or a touch of luxury, Santa Cruz has something to suit your needs. Here are some of the best hotels near Santa Cruz that our travellers love:

Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Seaopens in new window: This budget-friendly hotel boasts a commendable guest rating of 8.8 and is perfect for leisure travellers seeking a comfortable getaway. With family-oriented amenities and easy access to the beach, it offers a clean and quiet atmosphere. The spacious rooms ensure a restful stay, complemented by excellent customer service. The good parking facilities and charming environment make it a delightful choice for those looking to unwind and explore the local attractions.
Capitola Venetian Vacation Rentalsopens in new window: With a solid guest rating of 8.6, this budget-friendly hotel is an ideal choice for beach vacation enthusiasts. Direct access to the beach enhances its appeal, creating a vibrant atmosphere for relaxation. The clean living spaces and convenient kitchenette cater to those who appreciate flexibility during their stay. Its prime location allows for easy exploration of the surrounding area, making it a great base for those eager to enjoy the coastal delights.
Capitola Hotelopens in new window: This stylish 3.5-star hotel, rated 9.0 by guests, is designed for adventure seekers looking to engage in various outdoor activities. Offering a range of adventure sports and recreation options, it features beautifully furnished rooms that provide a luxurious touch. The inviting courtyard and basic yet satisfying continental breakfast create a welcoming ambience. With a focus on providing an exceptional experience, this hotel stands out for its excellent value and prime location, ensuring a memorable stay for every visitor.

Where to stay near Santa Cruz

In Capitola, Aptos, and Scotts Valley, each area offers its distinct charm. Capitola boasts beautiful beaches and vibrant art, perfect for seaside dining and shopping. Aptos is ideal for family-friendly activities with stunning sunsets and coastal biking. Scotts Valley, nestled in the mountains, provides entertainment options and a friendly atmosphere. For first-time visitors, Capitola is best suited, offering a quintessential Santa Cruz experience.

Capitolaopens in new window: Capitola is an enchanting seaside village that captures the charm of California coastal life. With its beautiful beach, vibrant surf culture, and stunning floral displays, it's an ideal spot for those looking to unwind. Stroll along the colourful beachfront and explore unique shops and local art galleries. Don't miss the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk nearby, perfect for family fun with classic amusement rides and games. For a little adventure, the Mystery Spot offers a quirky experience that will leave you intrigued. Capitola's welcoming atmosphere combined with its picturesque views makes it a fantastic place to stay.
Aptosopens in new window: Aptos is a lovely coastal town known for its stunning beaches and family-friendly vibe. It's perfect for travellers who enjoy biking along scenic trails or walking along the sandy shores at Rio Del Mar Beach. The sunsets here are truly spectacular, making it a romantic spot for couples. Seacliff State Beach is another gem, where you can explore tide pools and enjoy a picnic. With charming cafes and a laid-back atmosphere, Aptos offers a nice balance of relaxation and outdoor activities, ideal for a memorable stay.
Scotts Valleyopens in new window: Scotts Valley is a friendly mountain community that offers a warm welcome to visitors. It's a great base for those looking to enjoy the outdoors while still having access to entertainment and cultural attractions. Explore local cafes and enjoy the vibrant community spirit. While it’s a bit further from the beach, the area boasts lovely parks for walking and biking, making it perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby scenic views and friendly locals add to the charm of Scotts Valley, making it a worthwhile stop on your journey.

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz beckons with its stunning beaches, rolling coastal mountains, and lush forests. Embrace outdoor activities like surfing the waves, hiking scenic trails, or biking through serene parks. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the wharf, soaking in the vibrant seaside atmosphere, or set up camp under the stars for an unforgettable getaway.

La Selva Beachopens in new window – Enjoy a relaxing day at La Selva Beach, where you can unwind by the sea or take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shore. This tranquil spot is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle, offering a serene environment for sunbathing or beachcombing.
Capitola Beachopens in new window – Head to Capitola Beach for a charming coastal experience. This picturesque beach is lined with colourful cottages and features a beautiful pier. You can soak up the sun, swim in the refreshing waters, or explore the nearby shops and eateries for a taste of local cuisine.
Roaring Camp Railroadsopens in new window – Step back in time at Roaring Camp Railroads, where you can board a historic steam train and enjoy a scenic ride through the redwoods. The journey showcases stunning natural beauty and gives you a glimpse into California's rich railway history.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalkopens in new window – Dive into fun at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a classic amusement park right by the beach. With thrilling rides, arcade games, and delicious treats, it’s the perfect place for families and friends to create lasting memories while soaking up the sun.
Rio Del Mar Beachopens in new window – Visit Rio Del Mar Beach for a more laid-back atmosphere. This beach is ideal for picnics, beach games, and leisurely walks along the shore. With its gentle waves, it's also a great spot for families looking to enjoy a fun day by the sea.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Santa Cruz

Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Santa Cruz is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For those looking to explore the city's key landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as walking along the beach, surfing, hiking scenic trails, and engaging in birdwatching. This allows for an enriching experience of Santa Cruz's history and culture, all while keeping costs manageable for those on a budget.
Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals for hotels in Santa Cruz, visit the Dealsopens in new window or Last-Minute Dealsopens in new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find reduced rates close to your travel date. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. Additionally, the Smart Shoppingopens in new window feature in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you’re more likely to be informed if prices drop or rooms become available for your ideal getaway.
Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you find a more affordable option for your stay in a hotel in Santa Cruz. If you're in search of a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised atmosphere and may offer better value. When you make a booking through Hotels.com, we'll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears to be on the higher side, we can suggest alternative dates that could lead you to a more favourable rate.
Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre generally tend to be more expensive; however, thanks to Santa Cruz's outstanding public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel slightly further out that remains well-connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 52.2°F (11.2°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 63.9°F (17.7°C). December is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Santa Cruz, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.

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