Find Beach Hotels in Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz and its attractions for beach lovers

Santa Cruz, California, is a treasure for beach lovers seeking an unforgettable coastal experience. Start your adventure at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where thrilling rides and classic carnival games create a vibrant atmosphere just steps from the ocean. For those who prefer a more serene setting, Natural Bridges State Beach offers stunning rock formations and tide pools filled with marine life, perfect for exploring with family. If you’re in the mood for some sunbathing or a casual beach picnic, Cowell Beach is the place to be, known for its gentle waves that make it ideal for beginner surfers and families alike. Don’t miss the chance to wander through the Santa Cruz Harbor, where you can enjoy fresh seafood dining options while watching boats come and go. For accommodations, staying in the West Cliff Drive area provides easy access to both the beach and scenic coastal trails, allowing you to soak in breathtaking ocean views. Hotels here offer luxurious amenities and attentive service, ensuring your family feels pampered while enjoying the beauty of the Pacific Coast. With a mix of adventure and relaxation, Santa Cruz promises a beach getaway that exceeds expectations.

Find the best beach hotels and resorts in Santa Cruz

For travelers seeking a beach getaway in Santa Cruz, these hotels offer the perfect blend of sun, sand, and comfort. Each hotel boasts unique amenities to enhance your seaside experience.

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

• Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Dream Inn Santa Cruz stands out for its beachfront location and stunning ocean views, rated highly by guests with an impressive score of 9.2. The hotel offers direct access to the sandy beach and features a beachfront restaurant, perfect for enjoying meals with a view while soaking in the vibrant coastal atmosphere.
• Other amenities: Guests can indulge in the outdoor heated pool and unwind at the onsite spa, ensuring a relaxing experience. The hotel provides room service and a poolside bar for convenience. Enjoy private balconies in select rooms, complimentary cribs, and valet parking. With daily housekeeping and climate control, guests can relax in comfort, making this hotel an exceptional choice for beach travelers.
• Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
• Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.15 miles, Cowell's Beach - 0.02 miles, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.07 miles

Marea Sol Hotel

• Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Marea Sol Hotel offers a charming and budget-friendly option for beach enthusiasts, with a review rating of 9.0. Located just steps from the beach, guests can enjoy breathtaking ocean views and easy access to white sand beaches, making it a delightful choice for sun-seekers.
• Other amenities: The hotel features a rooftop terrace for stunning views, and each room includes a furnished balcony for relaxation. Guests have access to an outdoor pool, perfect for cooling off after a day at the beach. Self-parking is available for convenience, alongside complimentary toiletries. The air-conditioned rooms ensure a comfortable stay, providing an inviting atmosphere for all travelers.
• Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
• Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.2 miles, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.17 miles, Main Beach - 0.12 miles

Casablanca On The Beach

• Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Casablanca On The Beach is an ideal choice for beach lovers, featuring direct beach access and stunning ocean views. With a solid review rating of 8.6, guests can enjoy the nearby surfing, sailing, and windsurfing activities, making it a perfect base for ocean adventures. The hotel also offers a cozy atmosphere and essential conveniences for a relaxing stay.
• Other amenities: Guests can take advantage of a lovely terrace and patio areas to soak up the sun, along with self-parking facilities. Each room features air conditioning for comfort, and there are free toiletries to enhance the stay. The hotel is located in a historical district, providing a unique charm, and offers connecting rooms for larger groups. Enjoy a complimentary crib for little ones and the ability to check-in early or check-out late for added flexibility.
• Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
• Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.22 miles, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.31 miles, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.02 miles