Hotels in Santa Cruz
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Top Rated Santa Cruz Hotels

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Marea Sol Hotel

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Casablanca On The Beach

Ocean Pacific Lodge
How much is a Santa Cruz hotel?
Check Santa Cruz hotel room prices by star rating

4 Star Hotels
Cheap Santa Cruz hotels options

Beachview Inn

Continental Inn

Salt Air Lodge

Fireside Inn Santa Cruz

Aqua Breeze Inn

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz
Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz
- Surfing Paradise: Santa Cruz is renowned for its world-class surfing beaches, where you can ride epic waves like a pro.
- Outdoor Adventure: From camping in nature to biking along picturesque trails, Santa Cruz offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Vibrant Nightlife: Experience the energy of Santa Cruz's vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of options for dancing, live music, and entertainment.
- Scenic Beaches: Explore the stunning Santa Cruz beaches, with their picturesque landscapes, inviting waves, and sun-soaked shores.
- Dining and Shopping: Indulge in a variety of dining options and unique shopping experiences in Santa Cruz's lively city center.
Popular hotels in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, California, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offers a variety of hotel accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. From luxury resorts with stunning ocean views to cozy boutique hotels nestled in the redwoods, there is something for everyone. Popular hotels in the area provide convenient access to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the picturesque West Cliff Drive. For budget-conscious travelers, there are affordable options available near downtown Santa Cruz, ensuring a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. So pack your bags and get ready to explore Santa Cruz!
- Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay - This 4.0-star rated resort is located 27.0 miles away from Santa Cruz. It offers close proximity to walking, museums, and historical sites. With its beautiful views of the ocean, marina, and theater, it is a great option for your outdoor vacation.
- Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa - Situated 27.4 miles away from Santa Cruz, this 3.5-star rated hotel is close to historical sites, walking trails, and friendly locals. It also offers opportunities for skydiving, museums, and golfing, making it a versatile choice for your outdoor vacation.
- Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa - This 4.5-star rated resort is located 27.8 miles away from Santa Cruz. It is known for its proximity to golf courses, friendly locals, and relaxing atmosphere. With its outdoor pool, tennis courts, and nearby airport, it provides convenient facilities for your outdoor vacation.
Top things to see and do in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, located in California's beautiful Central Coast, offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you prefer walking along the scenic beach, engaging in various sports, or simply relaxing by the sea, there is something for everyone here. The city is particularly known for its surfing culture and offers excellent opportunities for camping and biking. For those seeking entertainment, Santa Cruz provides a vibrant nightlife scene and plenty of options for dining and shopping. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the birdwatching and hiking opportunities available in the area. Don't miss the chance to explore the stunning Santa Cruz beaches, including Santa Cruz Beach, Santa Cruz Harbor, Main Beach, Capitola Beach, and many more.
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Get ready for a thrilling adventure at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. This vibrant theme park is situated right by the beach, providing a perfect blend of fun and relaxation. Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze as you indulge in exciting rides, take leisurely walks along the sandy shore, or even go horseback riding. The awe-inspiring sunsets and the opportunity to engage in various sports activities make this destination an ideal choice for families seeking entertainment and memorable experiences.
- Mystery Spot: Immerse yourself in the intriguing world of the Mystery Spot. This captivating exhibit located near the beach offers an extraordinary cultural experience. Discover the unexplained phenomena while exploring the surroundings that include sports opportunities, scenic walking trails, the vastness of the sea, thrilling surf spots, biking trails, breathtaking sunsets, birdwatching, and encounters with friendly locals. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the enchanting environment that surrounds the Mystery Spot, leaving you in awe of the mysteries that lie within.
- Santa Cruz Wharf: Embark on an adventure at Santa Cruz Wharf, a picturesque jetty pier. Enjoy engaging in your favorite sports activities, take leisurely strolls along the beach, or simply soak in the beauty of the sea. Whether you are a surfer, a biking enthusiast, or someone who appreciates the tranquility of birdwatching, Santa Cruz Wharf caters to all. Immerse yourself in the stunning sunsets, encounter friendly locals, and relish the wonders of nature in this captivating destination.
Best places to visit in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the central area for ocean views, beach houses, and a lively atmosphere. Don't miss out on the chance to go surfing at the famous Santa Cruz beaches, camping in the surrounding nature, or biking along the scenic trails.
- Westside Santa Cruz: Explore the laid-back vibes of Westside Santa Cruz, where sports and outdoor activities are the name of the game. Start your day with a brisk walk along the beach, then hit the waves for some epic surfing. The friendly locals are always up for a chat, so don't be shy about striking up a conversation. For the nature lovers, there's birdwatching and biking trails that offer stunning views of the sea and sunsets. And if you're feeling adventurous, check out the nearby theme park for some thrilling rides. With its perfect blend of outdoor fun and warm atmosphere, Westside Santa Cruz is a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast.
- Eastside Santa Cruz: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Eastside Santa Cruz, where the sea and beach are just the beginning. Take a stroll along the picturesque port and soak in the stunning sunsets. If you're an early riser, catch the sunrise and witness nature at its finest. The area is filled with vibrant flowers and gardens that will leave you in awe. And if you're into biking, there are plenty of scenic routes to explore. Don't forget your binoculars for some birdwatching! With its serene atmosphere and natural wonders, Eastside Santa Cruz is a paradise for outdoor lovers.
- Pleasure Point: Get ready for non-stop fun at Pleasure Point, where sports and entertainment collide. Start your day with a walk on the beach, then hit the waves for some epic surfing. The sea and sunsets provide the perfect backdrop for a bike ride along the coast. And when the sun goes down, get your dancing shoes on and groove to the live music at one of the lively venues. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or a lover of entertainment, Pleasure Point offers a unique experience that will leave you wanting more.
Check out the month-by-month weather chart for Santa Cruz to help you plan your next trip. With a monthly average of 63.9 degrees Fahrenheit, you can expect the hottest temperatures in September. The coldest month, on average, is December. The most rainfall typically happens in December. Regardless of when you visit Santa Cruz, every season has a reason to stay.
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January | 52.5°F (11.4°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
February | 52.3°F (11.3°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
March | 52.9°F (11.6°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
April | 54.7°F (12.6°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Mostly Sunny |
May | 56.7°F (13.7°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Mostly Sunny |
June | 60.1°F (15.6°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
July | 62.1°F (16.7°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
August | 63.3°F (17.4°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
September | 63.9°F (17.7°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
October | 61.5°F (16.4°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
November | 56.3°F (13.5°C) | Light Rain | Sunny |
December | 52.2°F (11.2°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
Local eateries in Santa Cruz
In Santa Cruz, California, you'll find a diverse and vibrant food and dining culture that caters to all tastes. Taqueria Vallarta is a popular spot for delicious Latin American burritos, while Woodstock's Pizza Santa Cruz is known for its mouthwatering pizzas. For a taste of Asian cuisine, head to Sesame Korean Grill for flavorful Korean dishes. Whether you're exploring the branches near the university, downtown Santa Cruz, or even food trucks scattered throughout the city, you'll discover a wide range of culinary options to satisfy your cravings. From casual dining to upscale experiences, Santa Cruz offers something for every palate.
The city of Santa Cruz is located along the coast of California, attracting sun seekers to its beaches, foodies to its wharf, and hipsters to its many vintage stores and coffee bars. It has an alternative vibe that stretches from its coastline into the nearby Redwood Forests.
Where to stay in Santa Cruz, California
Those who want to fully enjoy Santa Cruz’s coastal vibe will want to stay close to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and Wharf. The Boardwalk is an old school outdoor amusement park by the beach that has been open to the public since 1907, while the Santa Cruz wharf is a long pier with plenty of shops and restaurants. It splits the main beach area in half, with Cowell Beach to the west and Main Beach to the right.
Shopaholics should head Downtown, where they can also find plenty of cafes and the Museum of Art and History. Nature lovers on the other hand, will want to seek their accommodation located in the north, close to the hiking and biking trails of the Pogonip Park. It is a vast green area covered in redwood and oak forests at the edge of the city.
The Santa Cruz Harbor is the gateway to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and a great place for those who are into water activities. Kayaking, fishing, whale watching, sailing, and SUP. It is all possible here. The nearby Twin Lakes State Beach is a hotspot for surfers and offers great views of the Walton Lighthouse by Seabright State Beach.
3 and 4 star hotels in Santa Cruz, California
Santa Cruz is home to eight 4-star hotels and 25 3-star hotels. Each star category offers a diverse choice of business hotels, pet-friendly hotels, and boutique hotels in Santa Cruz.
The 4 star hotels in Santa Cruz generally feature one or more on-site restaurants, parking, and free WiFi. Some of them have a pool, spa and/or fitness center. However, all of them have fully equipped rooms with flat screen televisions, hair dryers, safes, coffee makers, and free toiletries.
Santa Cruz’s 3 star hotels offer many of the same services, just a bit more toned down. Additionally, most of them will provide you with free breakfast, WiFi, and parking.Hotels near Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport, San Francisco Intl. Airport, and Monterey Peninsula Airport
Santa Cruz does not have its own airport, but there are various options both nearby and a bit further out depending on where you are coming from. The Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport is your best bet as it is the closest international airport with lots of both international and domestic flights going in and out every day.
San Francisco International Airport also welcomes both domestic and international flights but adds about half an hour to your travel time should you be renting a car. Another option is the Monterey Peninsula Airport. This one is also located nearby, but it only caters to Central California.
No matter which airport is most convenient for you, they all have hotels nearby where you can spend the night after a late or before an early flight. There are ten hotels close to San Jose International Airport, eight hotels close to San Francisco International Airport, and six hotels close to the Monterey Peninsula Airport.
Santa Cruz hotels essential information
Accommodation | 676 hotels |
---|---|
Lowest Price | $83 |
Highest Price | $295 |
Popular hotels | Chaminade Resort & Spa, Dream Inn Santa Cruz, Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley, Marea Sol Hotel, Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz, Hyatt Place Santa Cruz, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, Casablanca On The Beach, Ocean Pacific Lodge |
Booking tips for Santa Cruz
Booking tips for Santa Cruz
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Saving tips for your trip
When planning your trip to Santa Cruz, California, United States, consider combining your flights, hotel, and car bookings as a bundle to receive a discounted price. This can help save money on your overall travel expenses. Additionally, there are several inexpensive local activities you can enjoy in Santa Cruz. Explore the beautiful beaches, go hiking in the nearby mountains, or take a bike ride along the scenic coastal trails. These activities offer affordable and enjoyable ways to experience the natural beauty of Santa Cruz.
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