Hotels in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz: Embracing the Sea's Timeless Allure

Discover Santa Cruz, California, where sun-kissed beaches meet a vibrant coastal culture. Stroll along the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf and explore the bustling downtown, brimming with eclectic eateries and boutique shops. Unwind in cosy local hotels and savour the laid-back Californian lifestyle. With its stunning seaside views and invigorating ocean breeze, Santa Cruz offers a perfect blend of nature and urban charm for every traveller.

Discover great hotels near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers a variety of comfortable accommodations, ranging from charming inns to welcoming hotels. Visitors can expect friendly service and a pleasant stay, with options to suit different budgets. Whether you prefer a cosy retreat or a convenient base near the beach, Santa Cruz has ideal spots for every traveller. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels near Santa Cruz:

1. Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Seaopens in new window: This 3.5-star hotel, rated 8.8 out of 10, offers a refined experience tailored for leisure travellers seeking comfort and a chic retreat. Guests can appreciate the elegant ambience, spacious and clean rooms, and quality amenities that ensure a memorable stay. The property features a stylish architectural design, thoughtfully curated experiences and express check-in, creating a smooth and high-quality journey. The location provides excellent access to local attractions and an easy connection to cultural hotspots, ensuring a distinctive and enjoyable experience.
2. Capitola Venetian Vacation Rentalsopens in new window: This budget-friendly hotel, with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, caters to leisure travellers looking for a unique and beachside escape. The property boasts direct access to the beach, a contemporary architectural design and curated experiences that elevate the overall stay. Guests enjoy the modern amenities and the vibrant setting, ensuring a seamless and memorable journey along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway. The stylish rooms and thoughtful decor highlight a trend-aware retreat that leaves a lasting impression.
3. Capitola Hotelopens in new window: This 3.5-star hotel, rated 9.0 out of 10, attracts adventure-seeking leisure travellers with its distinctive blend of comfort and curated experiences. Guests benefit from an array of on-site adventure sports and recreational activities, complemented by a modern architectural design and premium amenities. The property features express check-in, an inviting atmosphere and a stylish setting that is perfect for travellers embarking on a memorable coastal adventure. The attention to detail and refined offerings create a seamless, high-quality journey for those who appreciate a blend of adventure and luxury.

Where to stay near Santa Cruz

In Capitola, Aptos, and Scotts Valley, each area offers unique charms for visitors. Capitola is ideal for beach lovers, with vibrant dining and art scenes. Aptos boasts family-friendly beaches and picturesque sunsets, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Scotts Valley provides a friendly atmosphere with entertainment options. For first-time visitors, Capitola stands out as the best choice, offering a delightful blend of activities and attractions.

1. Capitolaopens in new window: Capitola is a charming seaside village perfect for those looking to unwind by the beach. With its vibrant atmosphere, you can enjoy a mix of art, dining, and shopping, all set against stunning coastal views. Don't miss the beautiful Capitola Beach, where you can soak up the sun or try your hand at surfing. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is just a stone's throw away, offering fun rides and games for all ages. Explore the quaint streets filled with colourful flowers and local boutiques, making it an ideal spot for leisurely walks. Capitola also hosts various entertainment events throughout the year, ensuring there's always something happening to keep you engaged.
2. Aptosopens in new window: Aptos is a delightful destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This area is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets, making it a great spot for relaxation. Visit Rio Del Mar Beach for a day of sunbathing or beachcombing, and enjoy biking or walking along the scenic trails. Aptos offers a selection of family-friendly activities and charming cafes where you can grab a bite after a day of exploring. It’s a less crowded alternative to nearby areas, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty and local flora at a more leisurely pace.
3. Scotts Valleyopens in new window: Scotts Valley offers a serene escape nestled in the mountains, perfect for those seeking a friendly vibe and a sense of community. This area is ideal for families and outdoor lovers, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking in the surrounding nature. Enjoy cultural attractions that showcase local talent, or relax in one of the many cafes that dot the area. While it may not have the beach, Scotts Valley is an excellent base for exploring nearby natural parks and enjoying the lovely mountain scenery. It’s a charming spot that balances relaxation with access to adventure.

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers a refreshing coastal retreat, with wide sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and serene parks perfect for walking, biking, or a spot of camping. Enjoy thrilling water sports and discover hidden coves ideal for boating and sea diving, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

• Capitola Beachopens in new window – Enjoy the laid-back seaside charm of Capitola Beach, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the sand and watch the gentle waves lap the shore. Its inviting atmosphere makes it a great spot for a morning walk or a sunset pause, and the scenic surroundings offer a perfect setting for some quiet reflection by the sea.
• Rio Del Mar Beachopens in new window – Visit Rio Del Mar Beach to explore a relaxed coastal retreat with its calm waters and expansive shoreline. The beach provides an ideal backdrop for activities such as beachcombing or simply basking in the sun, offering a refreshing escape from the everyday hustle.
• La Selva Beachopens in new window – Discover La Selva Beach, where the blend of sand and sea creates a tranquil environment perfect for a family outing or a peaceful day by the water. Its serene setting invites visitors to enjoy a leisurely day of relaxation, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate the simple pleasures of the coast.
• Roaring Camp Railroadsopens in new window – Step aboard at Roaring Camp Railroads to experience a historic journey through scenic landscapes. This attraction not only offers a chance to travel by vintage rail but also provides insights into the local heritage, making it a unique way to combine history with the natural beauty of the region.
• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalkopens in new window – Experience the excitement of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where the vibrant amusement park setting is perfect for those looking to enjoy a mix of fun rides and seaside views. The boardwalk brings together the thrill of classic attractions with the charm of the beach, ensuring a dynamic day out for visitors of all ages.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Santa Cruz

1. Book for the cheapest times: Visiting Santa Cruz in January, November, or December is a budget-friendly option, as hotel prices may drop to lower prices during these months. A stay of at least 2 to 3 days is ideal for exploring the town's key landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions, including walking tours, beach visits, sports, sea activities, surfing, camping, biking, entertainment, birdwatching, and hiking, all offering great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for Santa Cruz hotel deals? Begin by exploring the Dealsopens in new window section on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted options near your travel date. For last-minute arrangements, check the Last-Minute Deals area and enable email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales. The app’s Smart Shopping tool allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you identify potential savings should availability or prices change.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can vary depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year, so being flexible with your dates may help you save on your stay at a Santa Cruz hotel. For those seeking something a little different, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised experience and potentially better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average, and if it's on the higher side, we might suggest more affordable dates that could help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre usually command higher prices; however, with Santa Cruz’s excellent public transport connections, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel further afield that remains well connected. For those inclined to explore alternative, less congested neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 52.2°F (11.2°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 63.9°F (17.7°C). December is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Santa Cruz, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.