Find hotels in Santa Cruz, CA from ￥13,178

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing and water activities, making it ideal for relaxation and fun.
• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Enjoy thrilling rides and games at this iconic amusement park right by the beach.
• Vibrant Downtown: Explore unique shops and dine at delicious eateries in the welcoming atmosphere of downtown Santa Cruz.
• Outdoor Adventures: Discover beautiful national parks and scenic trails for hiking, biking, and exploring nature.
• Santa Cruz Wharf: A great spot for dining, entertainment, and stunning views of the coastline.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Discover the perfect accommodation for your Santa Cruz getaway, where a variety of hotels and resorts await to meet your every need. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly options, business travel amenities, or an adventurous vacation experience, you'll find excellent choices here. With numerous Santa Cruz hotels offering unique features and glowing reviews, your ideal lodging is just around the corner to make your stay unforgettable.

• La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley: This 3.5-star hotel offers a blend of comfort and functionality, ideal for business travelers. Located 37km from Santa Cruz, La Hacienda San Jose features modern amenities such as high-speed internet access, a well-equipped business center, and meeting spaces. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and unwind in the outdoor pool or fitness center after a busy day. The property’s vibrant Spanish-style decor provides a warm atmosphere, making it a welcoming retreat for those on work-related trips.
• Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell: Situated 35km from Santa Cruz, this 3.5-star hotel caters to both business and leisure travelers. Known for its pet-friendly environment, Larkspur Landing allows dogs and offers a range of amenities, including a full kitchen in every suite, complimentary breakfast, and a cozy lounge area. Business travelers will appreciate the on-site business services and meeting facilities. The hotel’s warm, home-like ambiance ensures that guests feel comfortable, whether they stay for a short visit or an extended period.
• Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey: A budget-friendly option 37km from Santa Cruz, this Motel 6 offers pet accommodations and a straightforward, no-frills experience. With a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, it is a great choice for travelers seeking affordability without compromising on comfort. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, on-site laundry facilities, and easy access to nearby attractions. The property’s welcoming atmosphere is perfect for those traveling with pets, as it allows both dogs and cats, ensuring your furry friends can enjoy the trip too.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, is a vibrant beach city perfect for family vacations and outdoor adventures. Explore the stunning Santa Cruz Beach, where you can relax under the sun or enjoy thrilling water activities. Stroll through downtown Santa Cruz, filled with friendly locals, unique shops, and delicious eateries. The atmosphere here is welcoming, making it an ideal getaway for relaxation and excursions alike. Discover the charm of Santa Cruz and create unforgettable memories.

• Capitola: Located a mere 6km from Santa Cruz, Capitola is a charming coastal city that offers a delightful beach experience for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The city's vibrant atmosphere peaks during the warmer months, particularly from April through July, attracting visitors with its stunning beaches and scenic bay views. Capitola boasts a range of exciting activities, including an amusement park and a lively boardwalk, making it a perfect destination for family fun. Be sure to explore the local landmarks such as the picturesque Capitola Beach and the nearby theme park, ensuring a memorable vacation.
• Westside Santa Cruz: Nestled around the Santa Cruz area, Westside Santa Cruz is a vibrant neighborhood known for its diverse outdoor activities and family-friendly atmosphere. The area experiences a steady flow of visitors, particularly during the summer months from June to August. Westside Santa Cruz is home to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where families can enjoy thrilling rides and games. In addition, the neighborhood boasts beautiful beaches and educational attractions, making it an excellent spot for those looking to learn while they play. Experience the unique charm and laid-back vibe that Westside Santa Cruz has to offer.
• Twin Lakes: Situated within close proximity to Santa Cruz, Twin Lakes is a cozy village that attracts visitors primarily during the summer months, especially from June to August. This picturesque area is perfect for families seeking outdoor adventures and beach relaxation. Twin Lakes is famous for its beautiful beaches and family-oriented activities, including a nearby amusement park and recreational areas. The serene environment and welcoming community make it an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway while still being close enough to enjoy the excitement of Santa Cruz.

Things to do near Santa Cruz

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, visit the Pacific Avenue shopping district for unique boutiques and local shops. If you're up for a drive, check out the Capitola Mall, located about 8km away, featuring a mix of department stores and specialty shops, perfect for finding gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil atmosphere at the Chaminade Resort & Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and yoga classes amidst lush surroundings. For outdoor enthusiasts, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers a lively mix of amusement rides and beach fun, perfect for a day of relaxation and enjoyment.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, located 50km from Santa Cruz. Feel the adrenaline as you watch high-speed races and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, surrounded by fellow motorsport enthusiasts and the beautiful California landscape.

Nightlife

In Santa Cruz, The Catalyst features live music and a vibrant dance scene, while the Blue Lagoon offers a relaxed bar atmosphere with themed nights. For a more laid-back vibe, check out the Crow's Nest with stunning ocean views and cocktails to enjoy as the sun sets.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Cruz

To save money during your visit to Santa Cruz, take advantage of the many free attractions such as the University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz Wharf, and Cowell's Beach. For transportation, consider using the affordable bus system, or walk around the compact city. The best time to visit is from November to January for lower accommodation rates, with Mondays being the cheapest day to stay. Utilize Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and consider package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings.

• 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: Expedia's search tool empowers you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort the results by price, starting with the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations that you can book.
• 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 perfect for outdoor and family beach vacations, offering attractions like beaches, national parks, and the iconic jetty pier. Visitors can enjoy a blend of beach activities, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Don't miss the Santa Cruz Wharf, a great spot for dining and entertainment, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience the excitement of this classic amusement park, featuring thrilling rides, arcade games, and a beautiful beachfront. With its vibrant atmosphere, it's a fantastic place for families to enjoy outdoor fun and adventure.
• Mystery Spot: Delve into the intriguing world of the Mystery Spot, a gravitational anomaly that challenges your perception of reality. This unique exhibit combines culture and curiosity, making it a must-visit for those who enjoy unusual experiences.
• Capitola Beach: Relax at Capitola Beach, just 6km from Santa Cruz, where you can soak up the sun, swim, or stroll along the picturesque shoreline. This charming beach offers a laid-back vibe perfect for unwinding by the ocean.

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 three major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is 77km away, with luxury options like the Fairmont San Francisco and The Ritz-Carlton, both 19km from the airport, offering transfer services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 45km away, with notable hotels such as the 5-star Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto, just 14km from SJC. OAKland International Airport (OAK) is 84km away, featuring upscale lodging like Claremont Resort & Club, located 16km from OAK. Each airport provides easy access to local hotels for your stay in Santa Cruz.