Hotels in Santa Cruz

October 2026
6
November 2026

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9 Oct - 11 Oct
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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 7 October 2026.

1. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$295
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

2. Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$183
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Marea Sol Hotel

3. Carousel Beach Inn

Carousel Beach Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$140
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Carousel Beach Inn

4. Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$211
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

5. Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$141
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Ocean Pacific Lodge

6. Casablanca On The Beach

Casablanca On The Beach
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$203
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Casablanca On The Beach

7. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$217
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

8. Seaway Inn

Seaway Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$204
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Seaway Inn

9. Mission Inn

Mission Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$164
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Mission Inn

10. Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$410
includes taxes & fees
29 Oct - 30 Oct
Dream Inn Santa Cruz

11. Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$231
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

12. Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$190
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA

13. Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$160
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

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

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$209
includes taxes & fees
5 Nov - 6 Nov
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

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

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites
Santa Cruz
AU$218
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites

16. Beachview Inn

Beachview Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$118
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Beachview Inn

17. West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$328
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

18. Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
Santa Cruz
AU$189
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

19. Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
Santa Cruz
AU$319
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Chaminade Resort & Spa

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

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$196
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA
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Casablanca On The Beach

Casablanca On The Beach
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$54 off
AU$241
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Casablanca On The Beach

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$48 off
AU$439
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Monarch Cove Inn

Monarch Cove Inn
Capitola
AU$266
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Monarch Cove Inn

Rio Vista Suites

Rio Vista Suites
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$17 off
AU$202
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Rio Vista Suites

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages
Eastside Santa Cruz
AU$45 off
AU$289
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
Boulder Creek
AU$145
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

Capitola Hotel

Capitola Hotel
Capitola
AU$22 off
AU$440
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Capitola Hotel

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$204 off
AU$634
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

Inn at Depot Hill

Inn at Depot Hill
Capitola
AU$533
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Inn at Depot Hill

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$25 off
AU$295
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$106 off
AU$323
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$48 off
AU$439
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Rio Vista Suites

Rio Vista Suites
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$17 off
AU$202
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Rio Vista Suites

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages
Eastside Santa Cruz
AU$272
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
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Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

Casablanca On The Beach

Casablanca On The Beach
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$66 off
AU$454
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Casablanca On The Beach

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
Santa Cruz
AU$452
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Sign in for extra savings
Chaminade Resort & Spa

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
Boulder Creek
AU$145
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

Inn at Depot Hill

Inn at Depot Hill
Capitola
AU$533
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Inn at Depot Hill

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$106 off
AU$1,035
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
La Bahia Hotel and Spa

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$109 off
AU$994
for 2 nights, 1 room
AU$497 per night
includes taxes & fees
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$161 off
AU$1,458
for 2 nights, 1 room
AU$729 per night
includes taxes & fees
Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Casablanca On The Beach

Casablanca On The Beach
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$141 off
AU$1,106
for 2 nights, 1 room
AU$553 per night
includes taxes & fees
Casablanca On The Beach

Capitola Hotel

Capitola Hotel
Capitola
AU$89 off
AU$1,213
for 2 nights, 1 room
AU$607 per night
includes taxes & fees
Capitola Hotel

Inn at Depot Hill

Inn at Depot Hill
Capitola
AU$1,252
for 2 nights, 1 room
AU$626 per night
includes taxes & fees
Inn at Depot Hill

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$248 off
AU$1,547
for 2 nights, 1 room
AU$774 per night
includes taxes & fees
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Rio Vista Suites

Rio Vista Suites
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$92 off
AU$1,020
for 2 nights, 1 room
AU$510 per night
includes taxes & fees
Rio Vista Suites

East Cliff Nook

East Cliff Nook
Eastside Santa Cruz
AU$111 off
AU$1,300
for 2 nights, 1 home
AU$650 per night
includes taxes & fees
East Cliff Nook

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$222 off
AU$2,157
for 2 nights, 1 room
AU$1,079 per night
includes taxes & fees
La Bahia Hotel and Spa

Check out pet-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$141
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Ocean Pacific Lodge

Casablanca On The Beach

Casablanca On The Beach
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$203
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Casablanca On The Beach

Seaway Inn

Seaway Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$204
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Seaway Inn

Edgewater Beach Inn

Edgewater Beach Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$160
includes taxes & fees
8 Oct - 9 Oct
Edgewater Beach Inn

Bella Notte, a ZenStay Hotel

Bella Notte, a ZenStay Hotel
Eastside Santa Cruz
AU$246
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Bella Notte, a ZenStay Hotel

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$231
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Pacific Blue Inn

Pacific Blue Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$186
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Pacific Blue Inn

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$190
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
Santa Cruz
AU$319
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Chaminade Resort & Spa

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Aptos
AU$177
includes taxes & fees
15 Oct - 16 Oct
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
View all properties

You may also like hotels with pools in Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$295
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$183
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Marea Sol Hotel

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$141
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Ocean Pacific Lodge

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$211
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$231
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$410
includes taxes & fees
29 Oct - 30 Oct
Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
Santa Cruz
AU$319
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Chaminade Resort & Spa

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$217
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Edgewater Beach Inn

Edgewater Beach Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$160
includes taxes & fees
8 Oct - 9 Oct
Edgewater Beach Inn

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
Santa Cruz
AU$189
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
View all properties

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

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$141
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Ocean Pacific Lodge

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$211
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$231
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Mission Inn

Mission Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$164
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Mission Inn

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
Santa Cruz
AU$319
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Chaminade Resort & Spa

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
Santa Cruz
AU$189
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$160
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

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

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites
Santa Cruz
AU$218
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Aptos
AU$177
includes taxes & fees
15 Oct - 16 Oct
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

The Aqua Pacific Hotel

The Aqua Pacific Hotel
Westside Santa Cruz
AU$116
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
The Aqua Pacific Hotel
View all properties

Go beyond your typical stay in Santa Cruz

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Our prices for hotels in Santa Cruz are cheapest in February

Price trends for hotels in Santa Cruz

Pricing is based on two traveller single night rates
View properties in October

October

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Top neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
Photo by Jie Ric

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 pier extending into the ocean with a roller coaster in the background.

Santa Cruz Wharf

9.0/10 (2,069 reviews)
Westside Santa Cruz is home to Santa Cruz Wharf, so why not stop by during your stay in Santa Cruz? Hotels.com travellers also say the area is walkable and that it has lots of nice beaches.
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A yellow sign with red and black text reading "ENTRANCE To MYSTERY SPOT Santa Cruz, Calif. U.S.A."
Photo by Arup Paul

Mystery Spot

8.4/10 (1,594 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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A coastal rock formation with an arch, waves crashing against it, and a seagull standing on the beach.
Photo by rabbit.Hole

Natural Bridges State Park

9.0/10 (842 reviews)
Westside Santa Cruz is home to Natural Bridges State Park, so why not stop by during your stay in Santa Cruz?
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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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A street with a clock tower, a tram, and a building with a sign.

Pacific Avenue

8.6/10 (951 reviews)
If you want to give your credit card some exercise, head out to Pacific Avenue in Westside Santa Cruz. Hotels.com travellers also say the area is walkable and that it has lots of nice beaches. Splash some more cash at Ocean Street and Pacific Garden Mall.
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Santa Cruz Main Beach

9.0/10 (19 reviews)
Whether you want to hunt for sand dollars or smell the fresh air, Santa Cruz Main Beach is a spot you might want to check out, located 1.1 mi (1.8 km) from central Santa Cruz. If you want to continue walking by the waves, head to Seabright Beach, Cowell's Beach and Harbor Beach, located nearby.
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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
A beach with a Ferris wheel and amusement park rides in the background.

Check out reviews of Santa Cruz hotels guests love

Dinah's Garden Hotel

Dinah's Garden Hotel
Palo Alto

10/10 Exceptional

Australia
Frank
Dinah's Garden Hotel

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola
Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

Australia
Melanie
Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel
Westside Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

Australia
Lucinda
Marea Sol Hotel

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
Westside Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

Australia
Zac
Ocean Pacific Lodge

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn
Westside Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

Australia
Michael
West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

Australia
Christopher
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Islander Motel Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz

8/10 Very good

Australia
Anonymous traveller
Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Aqua Breeze Inn

Aqua Breeze Inn
Westside Santa Cruz

10/10 Exceptional

Australia
Geoffrey
Aqua Breeze Inn

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Santa Cruz?

You can find top hotels in Santa Cruz from AU$103 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. 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 beach nearby plus the proposal/romance packages and free parking, and it has a guest rating of 8.8.

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

Consider one of our travellers' favourite pet-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz:

You can check "Pet friendly" on the Hotels.com "Amenities" filter in your search to find even 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 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. Explore more kid-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz by using our "Family friendly" filter in your search on Hotels.com.

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 driving, a great Santa Cruz hotel with free parking is a bonus. Our travellers' favourites include:

What are some popular hotels in central Santa Cruz?

If you're looking 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

  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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