Santa Cruz Hotels

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
• Iconic Boardwalk: The famous amusement park and boardwalk offer fun rides and games for all ages.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy excellent surfing spots and scenic trails in nearby national and state parks.
• Vibrant Downtown: Explore charming boutiques and local eateries in the lively downtown area.
• Picturesque Wharf: The Santa Cruz Wharf provides delightful experiences, including boat tours and scenic views.

Find great hotels in Santa Cruz

Discover the ideal accommodation for your getaway in Santa Cruz, California. Whether you seek a pet-friendly hotel or a resort offering adventure-filled experiences, this coastal city has a variety of options to suit every traveller's needs. Explore the charm of Santa Cruz hotels, read insightful reviews, and find the perfect lodging for business trips or leisurely vacations in this picturesque destination.

• Ocean Pacific Lodge: Ocean Pacific Lodge is a budget-friendly motel that offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for families and pet owners. With a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this accommodation provides child-centric amenities, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a comfortable stay. The property allows pets, featuring facilities such as food and water bowls, alongside a flexible pet policy. With its close proximity to the beach, guests can enjoy a relaxing seaside experience while taking advantage of the lodge's family-friendly services.
• Best Western Plus All Suites Inn: This accommodation is tailored for adventurous spirits and business travellers alike, with a solid guest rating of 8.0 out of 10. Best Western Plus All Suites Inn offers a variety of recreational activities both onsite and nearby, including hiking, biking, and surfing. The property also welcomes pets, ensuring comfort for those travelling with furry companions. Its convenient location in Santa Cruz makes it an ideal base for exploring the region's natural beauty and engaging in exciting outdoor pursuits, whilst also catering to the needs of business guests.
• Torch Lite Inn: Torch Lite Inn is a charming motel situated in the heart of Santa Cruz, making it an excellent choice for visitors keen on adventure and nature. This establishment encourages guests to immerse themselves in the outdoors with nearby activities such as sailing, kayaking, and mountain biking. The inn focuses on providing a natural accommodation experience, featuring a lovely terrace where guests can unwind and appreciate the surrounding environment. Its blend of city accessibility and natural charm makes it a unique destination for those looking to explore Santa Cruz.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, is a delightful destination perfect for outdoor adventures and family-friendly beach vacations. Explore the stunning Santa Cruz Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the sun, or wander through the vibrant downtown area, filled with friendly locals and charming boutiques. Nearby regions offer picturesque neighbourhoods and excursions that enhance your travel experience, making Santa Cruz an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration alike.

• Bonny Doon: Nestled within the Santa Cruz area, Bonny Doon is a charming village known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor adventures. Though traveller arrivals are fairly consistent year-round, visitor numbers peak in April, July, and December. This picturesque locale attracts those seeking outdoor experiences, with highlights including extensive hiking trails, recreational areas, and campgrounds. Nearby attractions like stunning beaches and a national state park offer additional scenic spots to explore, making Bonny Doon a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts.
• Olympia: Located a mere 11.3km from Santa Cruz, Olympia is a quaint village that draws visitors with its serene outdoor settings and adventure opportunities. The peak travel season occurs from June to August, while the quieter months span December to February. Visitors flock to this village for its recreational areas and the nearby national state park, which provides ample opportunities for exploration and enjoyment of the natural beauty that defines the region. Olympia's proximity to Santa Cruz allows for easy day trips, making it an ideal base for your exploration.
• Redwood Grove: Positioned 22.5km from Santa Cruz, Redwood Grove is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures, particularly during the summer months of June to July and into September. While it experiences fewer visitors in February to March and November, those who do visit are treated to captivating hiking trails, campgrounds, and recreational areas. The nearby national state park, mountains, and beaches create a stunning backdrop for any outdoor activities, making Redwood Grove a must-visit for those wanting to immerse themselves in the natural wonders of California.

Things to do near Santa Cruz

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, you can visit the charming Pacific Avenue for unique boutiques and artisan shops. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Capitola Mall for a larger selection of mainstream retail stores and dining options.

Recreation

The Chaminade Resort & Spa offers a tranquil retreat with stunning views, holistic treatments, and peaceful walking trails. Experience rejuvenating yoga sessions and indulge in spa therapies that blend natural elements, creating a harmonious environment to unwind and connect with nature.

At the Esalen Institute, immerse yourself in transformative workshops and coastal hot springs. Surrounded by breathtaking cliffs, participants can engage in mindfulness practices, creative arts, and bodywork sessions, fostering personal growth and relaxation amidst stunning ocean vistas.

Yoga at the Beach provides outdoor classes along Santa Cruz's scenic coastline. With the sound of waves as your backdrop, enjoy invigorating sessions that promote physical well-being and mental clarity, encouraging a deep connection with the natural surroundings.

The Santa Cruz Wellness Centre offers a variety of holistic services, including acupuncture and massage therapy. Focused on integrative health, the centre creates a nurturing atmosphere for relaxation and self-discovery, supporting your journey towards balance and well-being.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, located 49.9km from Santa Cruz. Feel the adrenaline as you watch high-speed races and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of motorsport culture.

Nightlife

In Santa Cruz, the Catalyst offers a lively atmosphere with live music and dancing, while the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk features seasonal events and casual beach bars. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the Crepe Place, known for its laid-back setting and tasty treats.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers numerous ways to save as a tourist. Enjoy free attractions like the University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz Wharf, and Cowell's Beach. For budget-friendly accommodation, consider visiting between November and January, when prices are lower. Mondays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays see higher rates. Use Expedia to find and combine hotel, flight, and activity packages for additional savings. Public transport options include buses and taxis, allowing for economical travel around the city.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Cruz are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santa Cruz is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Cruz is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To discover the most economical prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Santa Cruz hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, is perfect for outdoor and family beach holidays, offering a mix of stunning beaches, national and state parks, and a charming jetty pier. Visitors can enjoy various attractions that cater to those seeking beach relaxation, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Be sure to explore the Santa Cruz Wharf for a delightful experience during your stay.

• Manresa State Beach: Located 14.5km from Santa Cruz, Manresa State Beach offers stunning coastal scenery with golden sands and gentle waves, ideal for relaxation and beachcombing. The serene environment is perfect for enjoying a picnic or taking leisurely strolls along the shore.
• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Situated within Santa Cruz, this vibrant amusement park features classic rides, games, and delicious seaside treats. With its lively atmosphere, it's a great spot for family fun and outdoor adventures, all while enjoying stunning ocean views.
• Mystery Spot: Nestled in Santa Cruz, this quirky exhibit presents an intriguing optical phenomenon that challenges perceptions of gravity and space. Explore the fascinating mysteries in an entertaining tour that combines science with a touch of whimsy.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	54.7°F (12.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	60.1°F (15.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	63.3°F (17.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	63.9°F (17.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	61.5°F (16.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Cruz

Flying into Santa Cruz, California, is convenient with several major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 77.2km away, with luxurious hotel options such as The Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons Hotel, both 19.3km from the airport. San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 45.1km away, offering nearby hotels like Hotel Valencia Santana Row, just 6.4km from the airport. Oakland International Airport (OAK) is located 83.7km from Santa Cruz, with comfortable stays at Aloft San Francisco Airport, 19.3km away. All these airports provide accessible transport services to their respective hotels, simplifying your travel experience.