Hotels in Boulder Creek

Whispers of Waterfalls: Unveiling the Enchantment of Boulder Creek

Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Boulder Creek, California, is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Famous for its breathtaking waterfalls and vibrant wildflowers, this charming town offers a tranquil escape. Explore the lush trails of Big Basin Redwoods State Park, where the stunning Berry Creek Falls enchants visitors with its cascading beauty. Meander along the serene riverbanks, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes. Boulder Creek’s cozy ambiance and outdoor wonders create the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat off the beaten path. For the best hotel rates in Boulder Creek, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Boulder Creek

Some of the best places to stay in Boulder Creek are Downtown San Jose, Stanford and South San Jose. Boulder Creek, California, is an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions. Downtown San Jose offers vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences, while Stanford boasts beautiful campus grounds and museums. South San Jose features a more suburban vibe with local charm. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from boutique hotels to budget-friendly motels, ensuring options for every traveler. For first-time visitors, Downtown San Jose is ideal due to its accessibility and attractions. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Boulder Creek:

1. Downtown San JoseOpens in a new window: A vibrant area known for its family-friendly attractions and business amenities, Downtown San Jose is home to popular sites like the SAP Center and the San Jose Convention Center. This location offers a blend of entertainment and business opportunities, making it ideal for both leisure and corporate travelers. For accommodations, consider Hilton San JoseOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel that caters to business and pet-friendly needs with multiple meeting rooms and a business center. Another option is San Jose MarriottOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, which provides adventure sports nearby and is suitable for pets. Lastly, Hotel De Anza, a Destination by Hyatt HotelOpens in a new window offers excellent business amenities, including coworking spaces and a central location.
2. StanfordOpens in a new window: Renowned for its cultural significance and historic Stanford University, this area combines education with leisure, featuring attractions like the Stanford Shopping Center. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a mix of culture and family-oriented experiences. Rosewood Sand HillOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel, includes adventure activities and business facilities, while Clement Palo Alto – All-Inclusive Urban ResortOpens in a new window, another 5.0-star option, is ideal for romantic getaways with special packages and a focus on family amenities. Lastly, Nobu Hotel Palo AltoOpens in a new window offers upscale accommodations with comprehensive business services, catering to luxury travelers.
3. South San JoseOpens in a new window: This family-friendly area features attractions like the Santana Row Shopping Center, providing ample entertainment and dining options. South San Jose is perfect for both relaxation and business needs. Consider staying at CordeValleOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel offering adventure activities and comprehensive business services. Alternatively, Hayes Mansion, San Jose - Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window is a solid choice for families and pets, with various amenities and meeting spaces. Lastly, La Hacienda San Jose Silicon ValleyOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, focuses on business travelers, providing essential amenities for a productive stay.

Things to do in Boulder Creek for first time

A three-day visit to Boulder Creek offers a perfect escape into nature, featuring lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant wildflowers. Enjoy hiking through scenic trails, camping under the stars, and unwinding at a local spa, all while soaking in the beauty of the surrounding mountains and rivers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Boulder Creek:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where you can enjoy thrilling rides and delicious boardwalk treats while soaking in the ocean views. Afterward, take a short drive to Felton Covered Bridge Park, a picturesque spot perfect for a leisurely stroll and some great photo opportunities. Conclude your day at Roaring Camp Railroads, where you can hop on a historic steam train for a scenic ride through the redwoods, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
• Day 2: Begin with a visit to Big Basin Redwoods State Park, home to some of the tallest trees in the world—don’t forget your camera! Wander through the lush trails, exploring the serene beauty of the ancient forest. Next, head to San Lorenzo Headwaters Nature Preserve for a peaceful hike amidst stunning landscapes. Wrap up the day at Castle Rock Falls, where you can enjoy a refreshing view of the waterfall and perhaps have a picnic surrounded by nature.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Mystery Spot, a fascinating gravitational anomaly that will leave you questioning reality—be sure to take the guided tour! Afterward, visit the Winchester Mystery House, an architectural wonder filled with intriguing history and bizarre design choices. End your trip with a visit to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, where you can walk among the ancient redwoods and enjoy the tranquility of the forest, reflecting on your memorable journey through the area.

5 tips to find a great Boulder Creek hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Boulder Creek is during January, November, and December when hotel rates are significantly lower. For international travelers, it’s advisable to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure more affordable prices. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully experience the area’s highlights, including its beautiful waterfalls and scenic river. This destination offers great value for money, making it an ideal spot for those looking to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for last-minute deals to Boulder Creek? You may discover great rates on hotels by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. With good availability, you could find discounted room rates close to your travel date. To stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, maximizing your chances to score a fantastic hotel deal before your trip.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Boulder Creek.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and nearby local attractions in Boulder Creek is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars and buses to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Boulder Creek and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Boulder Creek

Boulder Creek experiences its lowest average temperatures in February and December, at 52.0°F (11.1°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 64.0°F (17.8°C). January is usually the wettest month. April, June, and July are the peak travel months in Boulder Creek, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with dry rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.

Boulder Creek Travel Information