Santa Cruz Hotel Guide - Cheap Hotels in Santa Cruz, California

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Top Santa Cruz Cheap Hotels

Mission Inn
Front of property

Mission Inn

2.5 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1004)
"We enjoyed the hot tub, the breakfast room with delicious biscuits and gravy and the location for a wonderful Safeway and great pizza!!"
The price is €96
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Mission Inn
Beachview Inn
One Queen Bed

Beachview Inn

2.0 star property
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1006)
"Good place to stay."
The price is €78
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Beachview Inn
The Aqua Pacific Hotel
Indoor pool, seasonal outdoor pool

The Aqua Pacific Hotel

2.0 star property
7.8 out of 10, Good, (725)
"Great place to take the family "
The price is €87
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
The Aqua Pacific Hotel
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA
Lobby

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA

3.0 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1007)
"Front desk staff were so friendly and helpful!"
The price is €113
includes taxes & fees
11 Nov - 12 Nov
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA
Ocean Pacific Lodge
Front of property

Ocean Pacific Lodge

2.0 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1199)
"Perfect for an overnight or weekend stay, great location"
The price is €82
includes taxes & fees
4 Nov - 5 Nov
Ocean Pacific Lodge
Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Outdoor pool, a heated pool, open 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM, pool umbrellas

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

4.0 star property
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1010)
"Cool retro Inn right on the beach."
The price is €241
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Beach Street Inn and Suites
Front of property

Beach Street Inn and Suites

2.0 star property
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1007)
"Loved the suite we had, would stay there again"
The price is €116
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Beach Street Inn and Suites
Continental Inn
Property grounds

Continental Inn

2.0 star property
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1002)
"Safe hotel and parking"
The price is €76
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Continental Inn
Surf City Inn and Suites
Indoor spa tub

Surf City Inn and Suites

2.0 star property
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1015)
"Great prices and it was super close to the boardwalk"
The price is €66
includes taxes & fees
15 Oct - 16 Oct
Surf City Inn and Suites
Torch Lite Inn
Signature Room

Torch Lite Inn

2.5 star property
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1008)
"Very nice hotel& always comfortable! "
The price is €69
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Torch Lite Inn
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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Find out more about Santa Cruz

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, offers a delightful mix of budget-friendly activities and attractions that cater to the adventurous traveller. Start your journey at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where you can enjoy free admission and indulge in affordable treats like corn dogs or cotton candy while taking in the vibrant atmosphere. For a taste of nature, head to Natural Bridges State Beach, where you can witness stunning tidal pools and migratory monarch butterflies, all at no cost. If you're in the mood for some culture, visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History, which often features free admission days, allowing you to explore local art without breaking the bank. The lively Downtown Santa Cruz is perfect for those seeking thrift shops and local eateries; grab a bite at one of the many food trucks offering delicious, inexpensive meals. When it comes to accommodation, consider staying near the vibrant Downtown area or close to the beach, where you’ll find a range of budget hotels that provide excellent service and a comfortable base for your adventures. Here, you can easily explore the charming streets filled with local shops and cafes, ensuring a delightful experience without the hefty price tag.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Cruz

For budget-conscious travelers visiting Santa Cruz, a range of excellent hotels offer affordable comfort without compromising on quality. Here are some top choices that won't break the bank.

Beach Street Inn and Suites

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Beach Street Inn and Suites is a charming budget-friendly hotel with a review rating of 9.4, perfect for those seeking a relaxed coastal getaway. Guests enjoy essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi and toiletries, as well as access to a lovely outdoor pool. This hotel allows guests to unwind while being steps away from the beach.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its prime location, the hotel offers beach towels, a hot tub for relaxation, and easy access to kayaking and surfing opportunities nearby. Additional amenities include self-parking, daily housekeeping, and a private pool area for guests looking to soak up the sun in comfort.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.3 km, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.3 km, Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.5 km

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For budget travellers seeking a modern and convenient stay, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola shines with a remarkable guest review rating of 9.4. Guests will enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast daily, and the hotel boasts an outdoor pool ideal for a refreshing dip. Its location is perfect for those wishing to explore nearby beaches and activities such as kayaking and surfing.
  • Other amenities: The hotel further enhances the stay with amenities like a 24-hour fitness centre, early check-in options, and convenient access to local hiking trails. The presence of electric car charging stations and a snack bar ensures a pleasant and straightforward experience. Guests will also find nearby shopping and entertainment options, making it a well-rounded choice for budget-conscious travellers.
  • Nearby attractions: Twin Lakes State Beach - 2.4 km, Capitola Beach - 1.5 km, Capitola Wharf - 1.5 km

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Ideal for budget-conscious travellers, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz is a great choice with an impressive guest review rating of 9.2. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast options daily, including continental selections on weekends, ensuring a great start to each day. The hotel also features a refreshing outdoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the beautiful beaches nearby.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include a fitness centre available 24 hours, free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, and convenient self-parking options. Guests will appreciate the terrace for relaxation and the nearby local attractions. The hotel also offers electric car charging stations, making it an eco-friendly choice for those travelling with electric vehicles.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.2 km, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.2 km, Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.3 km

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

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-Sea Inn & Suites is a fantastic option for budget travellers, a high guest review rating of 9.2. The hotel offers free breakfast options, including a continental spread, ensuring guests start their day right. The inviting outdoor pool and hot tub area provide a great space for relaxation after a day of exploring the picturesque Capitola Beach.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include complimentary self-parking, free Wi-Fi, and access to nearby hiking and biking trails. Guests can also enjoy spacious suites with separate living areas, making it ideal for those travelling with companions. The hotel’s nearby the beach and boardwalk activities adds to its appeal, ensuring a memorable stay.
  • Nearby attractions: Twin Lakes State Beach - 2.5 km, Capitola Beach - 1.6 km, Capitola Wharf - 1.6 km

Marea Sol Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For those seeking a budget-friendly escape with stunning views, Marea Sol Hotel is an excellent choice, featuring a guest review rating of 9.2. Guests will enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and toiletries, along with beautiful beach access just steps away. The hotel's outdoor pool is perfect for a refreshing swim on warm days, and its rooftop terrace provides a lovely spot to unwind.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include self-parking options and air conditioning for comfort throughout the stay. The hotel also offers partial and ocean views, enhancing the overall experience. Guests can easily explore nearby beaches and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere that Marea Sol provides.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.3 km, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.3 km, Main Beach - 0.2 km

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"Room was clean. Pool and hot tub were inviting. Parking located in a safe location. Slept well, bed was comfortable. . "
Cynthia 2-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Ocean Pacific Lodge

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Frequently asked questions

What is Santa Cruz like for travellers on a budget?
Santa Cruz has a variety of cheap accommodation options and things to do, making it a great getaway spot for budget travellers. In addition to its well-known attractions such as Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay, this destination is home to University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum and Pleasure Point Park, which you can enjoy while spending very little.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Santa Cruz?
Based on our traveller reviews, Ocean Pacific Lodge is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Other choices to stay on the cheap include Beachview Inn and Torch Lite Inn.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Santa Cruz?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Santa Cruz, but bear in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually September and August, with an average temperature of 17°C, while the coldest months are February and March, with an average of 11°C. Average annual precipitation for Santa Cruz is 677 mm.
What is there to see and do in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz is known for its sporting events and surfing, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the top local attractions that interest you most, such as Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay, and then look for sights and activities that cost little or nothing at all. Enjoy the outdoors at Main Beach and Santa Cruz Main Beach, or hunt for bargains with some shopping at Ocean Street.
How can I get to Santa Cruz and get around on a budget?
Scoping out the transportation options in Santa Cruz is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The most convenient airport is 13.4 mi (21.6 km) from the centre in Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal). However, if that doesn't suit your budget, you can look into flights to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.), which is 27.6 mi (44.3 km) away. Santa Cruz might not have very many public transport options so renting a car could be a reasonable alternative to see more of the area.