Hotels in Santa Cruz

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Tonight
10 Feb - 11 Feb
Tomorrow
11 Feb - 12 Feb
This weekend
13 Feb - 15 Feb
Next weekend
20 Feb - 22 Feb

Where to stay in Santa Cruz?

Reception
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
4.0 star property
Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,261 reviews)
The price is AU$172
includes taxes & fees
19 Feb - 20 Feb
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
Deluxe Cottage, 1 Bedroom, Fireplace, Garden Area (Cottage 11B)
Fern River Resort
Fern River Resort
3.0 star property
Felton
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (474 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Riverside retreat near Santa Cruz with a private beach and garden access.
The price is AU$172
includes taxes & fees
19 Feb - 20 Feb
Fern River Resort
Lobby
Four Points by Sheraton Santa Cruz Scotts Valley
Four Points by Sheraton Santa Cruz Scotts Valley
3.0 star property
Scotts Valley
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,004 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Set in scenic Scotts Valley with convenient access to the Santa Cruz coastline.
The price is AU$169
includes taxes & fees
16 Feb - 17 Feb
Four Points by Sheraton Santa Cruz Scotts Valley
Property amenity
Inn At Pasatiempo
Inn At Pasatiempo
2.5 star property
Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,003 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Serene Santa Cruz hideaway with a refreshing pool and on-site American dining.
The price is AU$177
includes taxes & fees
12 Feb - 13 Feb
Inn At Pasatiempo
Outdoor spa tub
Ocean Pacific Lodge
Ocean Pacific Lodge
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,298 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Bright, modern Santa Cruz motel with spa pools and pool near the boardwalk.
Ocean Pacific Lodge
Terrace/patio
Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA
Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (635 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Coastal convenience near Santa Cruz's best beaches with free hot breakfast daily.
The price is AU$175
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA
Exterior
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
3.0 star property
Boulder Creek
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,005 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Tucked in lush Santa Cruz Mountains, this historic lodge offers nearby hiking and biking trails.
The price is AU$140
includes taxes & fees
16 Feb - 17 Feb
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
Bar (on property)
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
3.5 star property
Aptos
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,074 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Experience Pacific serenity at this Aptos retreat, steps from Monterey Bay.
The price is AU$173
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Reception
National 9 Santa Cruz
National 9 Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (182 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Seaside motel near Santa Cruz Boardwalk, with outdoor pool and free parking.
The price is AU$114
includes taxes & fees
12 Feb - 13 Feb
National 9 Santa Cruz
Lobby
Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites
Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites
2.5 star property
Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,013 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Shoreline escape near Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, with refreshing pool and free perks.
The price is AU$181
includes taxes & fees
25 Feb - 26 Feb
Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites
Front of property
Mission Inn
Mission Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Santa Cruz escape with cosy rooms, spa pool relaxation, and easy beach access.
The price is AU$155
includes taxes & fees
16 Feb - 17 Feb
Mission Inn
Newly Remodeled 2 Queen Bed + Sofa Bed
Seaside Inn & Suites
Seaside Inn & Suites
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (945 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Monterey Bay moments await at this inviting Santa Cruz hotel with free parking.
Seaside Inn & Suites
Lobby lounge
Casablanca On The Beach
Casablanca On The Beach
3.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,200 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Beachfront escape by the Santa Cruz Boardwalk with volleyball and ocean views.
The price is AU$194
includes taxes & fees
17 Feb - 18 Feb
Casablanca On The Beach
Property amenity
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,084 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Relaxing Santa Cruz oasis near the boardwalk, offering spa treatments and poolside fun.
The price is AU$186
includes taxes & fees
2 Mar - 3 Mar
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Property grounds
Chaminade Resort & Spa
Chaminade Resort & Spa
4.0 star property
Santa Cruz
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,004 reviews)
The price is AU$270
includes taxes & fees
12 Feb - 13 Feb
Chaminade Resort & Spa
Lobby
Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea
Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea
2.5 star property
Capitola
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,003 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Seaside charm near Capitola Beach with a pool to refresh after coastal adventures.
The price is AU$145
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea
Business centre
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,262 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Peaceful beach retreat minutes from Santa Cruz Boardwalk and Monterey Bay.
The price is AU$220
includes taxes & fees
24 Feb - 25 Feb
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Surfing/boogie boarding
Seaway Inn
Seaway Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (158 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Experience the California coast just minutes from Monterey Bay and boardwalk fun.
The price is AU$181
includes taxes & fees
12 Feb - 13 Feb
Seaway Inn
Exterior
Marea Sol Hotel
Marea Sol Hotel
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,379 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Seaside escape with a rooftop terrace, steps from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
The price is AU$190
includes taxes & fees
12 Feb - 13 Feb
Marea Sol Hotel
Lobby
Best Western Plus Inn Scotts Valley
Best Western Plus Inn Scotts Valley
2.5 star property
Scotts Valley
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Peaceful retreat near Monterey Bay with inviting pool and relaxation options.
The price is AU$154
includes taxes & fees
24 Feb - 25 Feb
Best Western Plus Inn Scotts Valley
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Showing deals for:11 Feb - 12 Feb
Exterior
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
3.0 star property
Boulder Creek
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,005 reviews)
AU$36 off
The price is AU$140
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
Showing deals for:20 Feb - 22 Feb
Exterior
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
3.0 star property
Boulder Creek
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,005 reviews)
AU$92 off
The price is AU$356
for 2 nights, 1 room
AU$178 per night
includes taxes & fees
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

Check out pet-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz

Outdoor spa tub
Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1298)
Ocean Pacific Lodge
View all properties

You may also like hotels with pools in Santa Cruz

Outdoor spa tub
Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1298)
Ocean Pacific Lodge
View all properties

You can also stay at hotels with an ocean view in Santa Cruz

Business centre
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1262)
The price is AU$220
includes taxes & fees
24 Feb - 25 Feb
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
View all properties

When is the best time to visit Santa Cruz?

Our prices for hotels in Santa Cruz are cheapest in January
Price trends for hotels in Santa Cruz
Pricing is based on two traveller single night rates
View properties in February
Currently viewing crowd sizes and weather for February.
Typical weather for Santa Cruz
February
High 15°C / low 8°C. Sunny most days.
View properties in February
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February, no crowd data, average high temperature 15 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 8 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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November, no crowd data, average high temperature 17 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 11 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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December, no crowd data, average high temperature 15 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 9 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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January, no crowd data, average high temperature 15 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 9 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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Monthly weather averages (˚C)

Top neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

Clock tower in downtown Santa Cruz, California, USA. The tower is a local landmark and gathering place, decorated with flowers and pumpkins.

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.

Located at the northern end of Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz Harbor ... Walton Lighthouse... love exploring lighthouse!!
Photo by Dawn Madden
Open Photo by Dawn Madden

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.

This is a small state park at the northern end of Santa Cruz' scenic West Cliff Drive and a little over a mile from the Boardwalk, wharf and Main Beach. A couple of times a year you can see Monarch butterflies during their migration. They are not in the numbers of years past, but you'll still see some. If you walk north towards the rocks during low tide you will find some amazing tidepools full of sea anenomes, sea urchins, starfish, crabs, hermit crabs, and all sorts of marine life. The tidepools are on a ledge, so the tide needs to be quite high (>4 ft?) to reach them. The beach is absolutely stunning at sunset. #localsecrets
Photo by rabbit.Hole
Open Photo by rabbit.Hole

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.

Sunrise at Walton Lighthouse
Photo by Alex Sam
Open Photo by Alex Sam

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.

Nice place to have coffee and watch the waves. Great surf spot. NO bathrooms! #beach #ocean #surf #shops #view
Photo by Jennifer Radman
Open Photo by Jennifer Radman

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

Famous surfing beach town! California
Photo by Adri VDM Photography
Open Photo by Adri VDM Photography

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

4.3/5 (3,850 reviews)
If thrills are what you're after, head to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 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.
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So fun!! Great for family, but make reservations! If you don't, the wait is long.
Photo by Meg Faller
Open Photo by Meg Faller

Mystery Spot

4.1/5 (1,081 reviews)
You might want to get your camera out and head to Mystery Spot – just one of the landmarks located 2.9 mi (4.7 km) from central Santa Cruz. Hotels.com travellers also say the area is full of friendly people and that it has lots of nice beaches.
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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

Check out reviews of Santa Cruz hotels guests love

Surf City Inn and Suites

Surf City Inn and Suites

10/10 Excellent
"We had some issues with loud neighbors up to 4 am. The management moved us to a nicer room with no overnight distractions. "
MARK 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Surf City Inn and Suites

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Santa Cruz?
You can find top hotels in Santa Cruz from AU$114 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 Main 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 9.2 out of 10. Casablanca On The Beach is another great choice for a relaxing beach holiday in Westside Santa Cruz. This hotel has wedding services, a terrace and a variety of other amenities to enjoy, and our travellers rate it 8.6. If you're venturing to Eastside Santa Cruz, Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages is another ideal choice. Travellers love the free continental breakfast and proposal/romance packages, and it has a guest rating of 8.8.
What are some of the best hotels in Santa Cruz for couples?
Choose a top-rated Santa Cruz romantic hotel and enjoy your couple's getaway. 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. Discover more hotels in Santa Cruz on Hotels.com for couples by using the "Traveller experience" filter in your search and selecting "Adults only" or "Romantic".
What are some of the best kid-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz?
Some of the most well reviewed 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 8.4 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 continental 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. Discover more kid-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz by using the Hotels.com "Family friendly" filter in your search.
What are the top Santa Cruz hotels with a pool?
For some added luxury, discover the best Santa Cruz hotels with a pool. Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection is a great hotel in Westside Santa Cruz with an outdoor pool and a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. 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:
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.
Can I book a refundable accommodation option in Santa Cruz?
If you want the flexibility to change your plans to Santa Cruz, most hotels offer refundable* rates that you can book. You can find these properties by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow down the results.
Where can I stay in Santa Cruz if I want a holiday rental instead of a hotel?
If you want a good alternative to a hotel, look over our selection of 273 holiday homes. In addition, there are 25 apartments and 11 condos.

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Embrace the Coastal Symphony: Discover the Enchantment of Santa Cruz

Nestled along California's picturesque coast, Santa Cruz is a vibrant blend of stunning beaches, lush redwood forests, and a lively cultural scene. Explore the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf, where you can savour fresh seafood while enjoying panoramic ocean views. The sun-kissed sands of Main Beach invite sunbathers and surfers alike, while downtown Santa Cruz buzzes with eclectic shops and artisan eateries. Don’t miss the enchanting redwood groves of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park for a taste of nature’s majesty. With its laid-back charm and breathtaking landscapes, Santa Cruz is an irresistible destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers.

Discover great hotels in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers a diverse range of accommodations, from charming oceanfront inns to luxurious hotels. You can find seaside options that provide stunning views and comfortable guest rooms, making it a perfect spot for relaxation. Whether you prefer a boutique experience or a well-known star hotel, Santa Cruz has plenty of choices to suit your needs. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travellers in Santa Cruz:

  1. Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the SeaOpens in a new window: Designed for the discerning business traveller, Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea offers an array of amenities tailored to ensure a seamless experience. This property features a dedicated Business Centre, providing a perfect environment for meetings and productivity. The hotel is well-equipped with family-friendly amenities, ensuring comfort for all guests. With its thoughtful design and modern facilities, it delivers a sophisticated atmosphere where convenience meets elegance. Positive reviews highlight the exceptional service and ease of access to both business and leisure activities, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a refined stay.
  2. Capitola Venetian HotelOpens in a new window: Embrace the sun and surf at Capitola Venetian Hotel, a splendid choice for leisure travellers seeking a beach vacation experience. This property boasts direct access to the beach, allowing guests to effortlessly immerse themselves in the coastal lifestyle. The hotel features beautifully appointed rooms with stunning ocean views, enhancing the overall relaxing ambiance. Visitors rave about the serene surroundings and the refreshing coastal breeze, making it an ideal retreat for those wanting to unwind by the shore and relish in the beauty of Santa Cruz.
  3. Capitola HotelOpens in a new window: Adventure awaits at Capitola Hotel, the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers looking for an action-packed vacation. This property is designed for adventure enthusiasts, offering exciting sports and recreational activities both onsite and nearby. With options such as motorboating, kayaking, and hiking readily available, guests can dive into exhilarating experiences right outside their doorstep. Positive sentiments reflect the hotel’s vibrant atmosphere and the unique opportunity it provides for guests to explore the great outdoors, ensuring a memorable stay filled with fun and excitement.

Top locations to stay in Santa Cruz

When visiting Santa Cruz, California, consider staying in Capitola, Aptos, or Scotts Valley. Capitola boasts beautiful beaches and stunning coastal views, making it ideal for sun-seekers. Aptos offers a mix of beach and biking trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Scotts Valley provides easy access to entertainment and dining. For first-time visitors, Capitola is the best choice, with its charming atmosphere and seaside charm.

  1. CapitolaOpens in a new window: Capitola is a charming seaside village known for its picturesque beachfront and vibrant atmosphere. This area is perfect for those seeking a relaxing getaway by the ocean, with its colourful beachfront houses and stunning sunsets. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Capitola Wharf, where you can soak in the views or spot sea otters. The village features an array of boutique shops, making it a delightful place to pick up unique souvenirs. Don't miss the local art galleries that showcase regional talent, and if you're in the mood, the beach offers opportunities for sunbathing or a dip in the sea.
  2. AptosOpens in a new window: Aptos is a serene coastal community that offers a perfect blend of beach relaxation and natural beauty. With its stunning coastline and lush redwood forests, Aptos is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and exploring nature. The scenic beaches provide a tranquil setting to unwind, while the nearby trails lead you through breathtaking landscapes. Aptos also boasts charming shops and local markets, giving you a taste of the area's community spirit. Take the time to explore the nearby state parks, where you can connect with nature and enjoy peaceful surroundings.
  3. Scotts ValleyOpens in a new window: Scotts Valley is a welcoming town nestled in the redwoods, making it an excellent base for those who appreciate the outdoors. Known for its lush scenery and family-friendly environment, this area offers a range of recreational activities. Explore the scenic trails that wind through the forests, perfect for hiking or biking. Scotts Valley also features quaint shopping areas and local parks, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed day out. With its proximity to Santa Cruz, you can easily venture into the city while enjoying the tranquillity of this charming town.

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz beckons with its stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and lush parks, offering a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy sun-soaked days surfing the waves, hiking scenic trails, or biking along coastal paths. With delightful dining options and nearby lakes for boating, it's a vibrant destination for fun and relaxation.

  • Rio Del Mar BeachOpens in a new window – Spend a day soaking up the sun at Rio Del Mar Beach, where soft sands meet the gentle waves of the Pacific. It's an ideal spot for families, providing ample space for beach games, picnics, and seaside relaxation. Grab a towel, settle in, and enjoy the ocean breeze.
  • Roaring Camp RailroadsOpens in a new window – Step back in time at Roaring Camp Railroads, a historic railway that offers scenic train rides through the stunning redwood forests. Experience the charm of vintage steam locomotives as they chug along picturesque routes. Be sure to take your camera for some memorable shots amidst the towering trees!
  • Santa Cruz Beach BoardwalkOpens in a new window – Embrace the thrill at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a lively amusement park right by the ocean. With classic rides, games, and delicious boardwalk snacks, it’s the perfect place for families and thrill-seekers alike. Don’t miss a ride on the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster for an exhilarating experience!
  • Capitola BeachOpens in a new window – Head to Capitola Beach for a charming seaside getaway. Known for its colourful beachfront cottages, this spot offers a relaxing vibe with opportunities for paddleboarding, kayaking, and enjoying the local eateries. The scenic views make it a great place to unwind and watch the sunset.

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

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Santa Cruz is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a budget-friendly trip, staying for at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the city's historical landmarks and cultural attractions. During your visit, you can enjoy various activities such as hiking along scenic trails, biking along the coast, engaging in water sports like surfing, or simply relaxing at the beach. This way, you can experience the great value for money that Santa Cruz has to offer while exploring its rich history and vibrant outdoor entertainment.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to Santa Cruz, visit the Deals or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could find yourself informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, helping you secure the best prices. Additionally, Smart Shopping is a handy comparison tool available via the app that allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to seize opportunities for a budget-friendly getaway.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate based on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could enable you to save on your stay at a hotel in Santa Cruz. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised touch and occasionally better value. When you make a booking through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you to secure a better deal.
  4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be pricier, but thanks to Santa Cruz's outstanding public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well-connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less populated 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 typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Santa Cruz, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, with no rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.

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