Santa Cruz Hotels

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful beaches ideal for relaxation and family fun, with picturesque views and soft sand.
• Amusement Park Excitement: The iconic boardwalk features thrilling rides and games, perfect for adrenaline seekers of all ages.
• Outdoor Adventures: Explore nearby national and state parks for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the natural beauty.
• Charming Neighbourhoods: Discover vibrant local areas filled with friendly locals, shops, and restaurants.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from inviting hotels and luxurious resorts to suit every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Experience the charm of Santa Cruz with a diverse range of accommodation options, including inviting hotels and luxurious resorts. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly stay, a business-focused environment, or an adventurous getaway, the area caters to every traveller’s preference. Notable options include the Four Sisters Inn and AC Hotels, ensuring a comfortable and memorable visit to this scenic Californian destination.

• La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley: La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley is a sophisticated 3.5-star hotel tailored for business travellers seeking a blend of comfort and functionality. Located 37.0km from Santa Cruz, this property boasts an array of amenities including a well-equipped Conference Centre, versatile Conference Space, and multiple Meeting Rooms. The hotel's elegant décor and professional atmosphere make it an ideal choice for those looking to conduct business in a serene setting while remaining close to Santa Cruz's attractions.
• Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell: Situated 35.4km from Santa Cruz, Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell combines business convenience with a pet-friendly environment. This 3.5-star accommodation features essential business amenities such as a dedicated Business District and Meeting Room, ensuring a productive stay. Notably, the hotel welcomes pets with specific policies, allowing you to bring your furry companions along. With its comfortable suites and modern conveniences, it's an excellent choice for both business and leisure travellers.
• Los Gatos Lodge: Located 27.4km from Santa Cruz, Los Gatos Lodge is a charming 3-star hotel that caters to both business and pet-friendly needs. This welcoming property features a Business Centre, accessible Conference Space, and multiple Meeting Rooms, making it suitable for professionals on the go. Guests can enjoy the comfortable atmosphere while knowing their pets are also accommodated. With its blend of functionality and comfort, Los Gatos Lodge stands out as a great option for those wanting to balance work and leisure during their stay.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers an idyllic blend of outdoor adventure and family-friendly attractions, making it a perfect holiday destination. Just a stone's throw from the beach, visitors can explore charming neighbourhoods filled with friendly locals and vibrant business centres. Enjoy relaxing retreats in amazing locations, where adventure vibes abound. From excursions in the nearby natural wonders to the welcoming atmosphere of the city, Santa Cruz promises a memorable experience for all travellers.

• Capitola: Nestled merely 6.4km from Santa Cruz, Capitola is a charming coastal city renowned for its picturesque beachfront and vibrant atmosphere. The town experiences moderate seasonal visitor traffic, peaking from April to July. Travellers are drawn to Capitola for its outdoor experiences, stunning scenery, and relaxing beach vibes. Highlights include the delightful amusement park and the famous boardwalk, creating an ideal setting for family fun and leisure activities. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of the bay and explore the local beaches, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation.
• Westside Santa Cruz: Located within the Santa Cruz area, Westside Santa Cruz is a lively neighbourhood that attracts visitors year-round, particularly during the summer months from June to August. This area is ideal for families seeking outdoor adventures, beach activities, and educational experiences. The neighbourhood offers easy access to local attractions such as the amusement park and the captivating boardwalk. With its close proximity to the beach and bay, Westside Santa Cruz is a fantastic base for exploring the natural beauty of the region while enjoying family-friendly activities and entertainment.
• Aptos: Situated 11.3km from Santa Cruz, Aptos is a delightful coastal city that captures the essence of California's scenic beauty. The city's visitor numbers peak in the spring and summer months, attracting those seeking outdoor adventures and beach relaxation. Aptos is well-known for its engaging recreational areas, amusement parks, and stunning beaches. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate its close proximity to national state parks, offering ample opportunities for hiking and exploration. Aptos is a perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquil coastal environment while enjoying an array of outdoor activities.

Things to do in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is perfect for outdoor family beach holidays, offering a variety of activities. You can enjoy the thrilling amusement park and boardwalk, which feature exciting rides and games. Don't miss out on recreational areas and the vibrant Paseo, where adventure experiences await. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, Santa Cruz has something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Santa Cruz, explore Ocean Street for a vibrant mix of local businesses or head to Swift Street Courtyard for entertainment and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, visit Capitola Mercantile, located 6.4km away, for more unique finds.

Recreation

Experience the lush landscapes at Pasatiempo Golf Course, where you can unwind amidst stunning fairways. For adventure, Treks and Tracks Rock Climbing Trips offers exhilarating climbs just a short drive away. Alternatively, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at Luminescence Healing Haven, a sanctuary dedicated to relaxation and wellness.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of soaring through the trees at the Zip Line treeTopWalk, located 9.7km from Santa Cruz, where outdoor vibes abound. Alternatively, hike the scenic Ox Trailhead, situated 6.4km away, for a perfect blend of adventure and stunning natural beauty.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Santa Cruz offers an exciting mix of activities. Enjoy a fun evening at Boardwalk Bowl, where adventure vibes abound, or take a thrilling ride on the Sky Glider in the theme park. For a more romantic outing, catch a film at Cinemark Century Oakridge 20, located 33.8km away.

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 is an ideal destination for outdoor and family beach holidays, offering a variety of attractions like stunning beaches, national and state parks, and amusement parks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying activities that cater to beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to relax by the shore or explore nature, Santa Cruz has something for everyone.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience a classic Californian amusement park with thrilling rides, games, and vibrant attractions right by the beach. It’s perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure and fun in the sun.
• Mystery Spot: Visit this peculiar gravitational anomaly that has intrigued visitors since the 1940s. With its quirky exhibits and rich cultural background, the Mystery Spot offers an engaging and mind-bending experience.
• Capitola Beach: Just 6.4km from Santa Cruz, this picturesque beach boasts charming seaside views, colourful beach huts, and a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or strolling along the scenic coastline.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz is dependant 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

When planning your visit to Santa Cruz, California, you have several airport options. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 77.2km away, with splendid hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco and Palace Hotel, both 19.3km from the airport, offering transfers and shuttles. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is closer at 45.1km, featuring excellent accommodations such as the 5-star Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto, 14.5km from the airport. Lastly, Oakland International Airport (OAK) is 83.7km away, with luxurious options like 1 Hotel San Francisco and Claremont Resort & Club, both around 16.1km from OAK, providing easy access to airport transportation.