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

Hotels in Santa Cruz

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Dates

November 2026

December 2026

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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 9 November 2026.

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

1. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

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

2. Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 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 covered outdoor seating area with stone pillars, a metal fence, and a table with chairs.

4. Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

18 Nov - 19 Nov

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

5. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

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

6. Carousel Beach Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

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

7. Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

6 Dec - 7 Dec

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

8. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a painting on the wall.

9. Marea Sol Hotel

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

10 Nov - 11 Nov

A reception area with two sofas, a plant, a map display, and a view of the outside.

10. Ocean Pacific Lodge

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

29 Nov - 30 Nov

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

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

Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

16 Nov - 17 Nov

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

12. Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

29 Nov - 30 Nov

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

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

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

24 Nov - 25 Nov

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

14. West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

16 Nov - 17 Nov

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

15. Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

15 Nov - 16 Nov

A hotel room with a bed, a bedside table with a phone, a vase of flowers, a nightstand with a lamp, a mirror, and a painting of a beach scene.

16. Mission Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

A modern cafe with wicker pendant lights, a mural of mountains, and large windows offering a view of palm trees.

17. Seaway Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

10 Nov - 11 Nov

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

18. Casablanca On The Beach

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

16 Nov - 17 Nov

A spacious lobby with a fireplace, seating area, and large windows offering views of the night sky.

19. Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

16 Nov - 17 Nov

A hotel room with two beds, a striped carpet, and a wooden headboard.

20. Beachview Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

10 Nov - 11 Nov

View all properties

Get last-minute hotel deals in Santa Cruz and save more

Casablanca On The Beach

Westside Santa Cruz

AU$20 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

An outdoor patio with a table set for two, a white fence, and a view of the ocean.

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

Eastside Santa Cruz

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

AU$156 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

AU$16 off

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

AU$42 off

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

AU$98 off

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

Eastside Santa Cruz

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

Boulder Creek

AU$16 off

for 1 room

includes taxes & fees

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

AU$106 off

for 2 nights, 1 room

AU$308 per night

includes taxes & fees

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

AU$282 off

for 2 nights, 1 room

AU$462 per night

includes taxes & fees

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

Westside Santa Cruz

for 2 nights, 1 room

AU$643 per night

includes taxes & fees

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

Eastside Santa Cruz

AU$51 off

for 2 nights, 1 room

AU$428 per night

includes taxes & fees

Check out pet-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

29 Nov - 30 Nov

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

15 Nov - 16 Nov

View all properties

You can also stay at hotels with a pool in Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

15 Nov - 16 Nov

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

Westside Santa Cruz

includes taxes & fees

24 Nov - 25 Nov

View all properties

Go beyond your typical stay in Santa Cruz

Our prices for hotels in Santa Cruz are cheapest in February

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

Westside Santa Cruz

8/10 Very good

Sadie

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

Melanie

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

Westside Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

Michael

A modern house with a balcony, a dining area, and a kitchen.

Towneplace Suites By Marriott San Jose Downtown

Downtown San Jose

10/10 Exceptional

Douglas

A serene garden with a pond, lush greenery, and a traditional stone lion statue.

Dinah's Garden Hotel

Palo Alto

10/10 Exceptional

Frank

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Santa Cruz?

You can find top hotels in Santa Cruz from AU$120 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

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:

Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Seaopens in 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.
Capitola Venetian Hotelopens in 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.
Capitola Hotelopens in 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.

Capitolaopens in 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.
Aptosopens in 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.
Scotts Valleyopens in 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 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 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 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 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

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.
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.
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.
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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Hotels in Santa Cruz

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Where to stay in Santa Cruz?

1. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

2. Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

3. Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

4. Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA

5. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

6. Carousel Beach Inn

7. Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

8. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA

9. Marea Sol Hotel

10. Ocean Pacific Lodge

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

12. Dream Inn Santa Cruz

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

14. West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

15. Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

16. Mission Inn

17. Seaway Inn

18. Casablanca On The Beach

19. Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

20. Beachview Inn

Get last-minute hotel deals in Santa Cruz and save more

Casablanca On The Beach

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Check out pet-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz

Ocean Pacific Lodge

You may also like hotels with spa pools in Santa Cruz

Ocean Pacific Lodge

You can also stay at hotels with a pool in Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Go beyond your typical stay in Santa Cruz

When is the best time to visit Santa Cruz?

Price trends for hotels in Santa Cruz

November

Top neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz

Seabright

Westside Santa Cruz

Eastside Santa Cruz

Pleasure Point

Top landmarks in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Santa Cruz and related destinations

Check out reviews of Santa Cruz hotels guests love

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

8/10 Very good

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Santa Cruz?

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

Can I book Santa Cruz hotels with free cancellation?

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

What are some of the best Santa Cruz beach hotels?

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

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

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

What are the top Santa Cruz hotels with a pool?

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

What are some popular hotels in central Santa Cruz?

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Embrace the Coastal Symphony: Discover the Enchantment of Santa Cruz

Discover great hotels in Santa Cruz

Top locations to stay in Santa Cruz

Things to do in Santa Cruz

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

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

Keep exploring