Hotels & Accommodation in Santa Cruz

Coastal Charms: Discover the Enchantment of Santa Cruz's Shores

Santa Cruz, California, is a vibrant coastal gem renowned for its stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Here, the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf offers delightful eateries and charming views of the Pacific, while the historic boardwalk beckons with thrilling rides and games. Nature enthusiasts will revel in the nearby redwood forests of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, perfect for hiking and exploration. Downtown Santa Cruz boasts eclectic shops and a dynamic arts scene, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls. With its blend of sun, sea, and culture, Santa Cruz is a captivating destination for all types of travellers.

Discover great hotels near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers a range of friendly hotels and cosy accommodations, from well-appointed star-rated options to ideal, comfortable stays near the coast. The area provides a welcoming atmosphere with quality service and a relaxed vibe for every traveller. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers near Santa Cruz:

1. Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the SeaOpens in a new window: This 3.5-star property, rated 8.8 out of 10, offers an inviting setting for leisure travellers seeking a distinct, memorable stay. The hotel features a refined architectural design and a curated experience with elegantly appointed spaces and express check-in services. Guests enjoy a tranquil ambience with exceptional comfort and a seamless journey, highlighted by pristine, spacious rooms and thoughtful details. The stylish setting promises a rich blend of modern conveniences and classic charm, ensuring a high-quality retreat for those who appreciate comfort and sophistication.
2. Capitola Venetian Vacation RentalsOpens in a new window: This budget-friendly gem, rated 8.6 out of 10, is perfect for the leisure traveller who values a vibrant coastal experience. The property boasts direct beach access and a lively location that captures the essence of a walkable destination. Its well-appointed living spaces, complete with a convenient kitchenette, offer a relaxed yet distinctive retreat. The hotel delivers a fresh, curated experience with an emphasis on comfort and style, ensuring a memorable stay along the Pacific Coast Highway with ease and convenience.
3. Capitola HotelOpens in a new window: This 3.5-star hotel, with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, caters to the adventurous leisure traveller seeking a blend of luxury and excitement. The property features a range of curated adventure sports and recreation activities, including nearby sailing, kayaking, and surfing, as well as motorboating on-site and scenic hiking and biking opportunities. The hotel’s beautifully furnished rooms, coupled with exceptional service and a cosy courtyard, provide an inviting, high-quality retreat. Its elegant design and exceptional amenities promise an immersive, boutique experience that perfectly complements the thrill of adventure.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Stay in Brookdale, Los Gatos, or Pleasure Point when visiting Santa Cruz, California. Brookdale offers a serene atmosphere with scenic beauty, while Los Gatos is perfect for dining, shopping, and family-friendly activities, featuring attractions like Vasona Lake County Park. Pleasure Point is a vibrant hub for beach activities, surfing, and sunsets. For first-time visitors, Los Gatos is best suited for a well-rounded experience.

1. BrookdaleOpens in a new window: Brookdale is a cosy and welcoming area, perfect for travellers seeking a relaxed stay with a focus on local charm. With a range of nearby attractions, it offers a quiet retreat that’s ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring Santa Cruz. The area’s inviting ambience and friendly community make it a delightful spot for a restful holiday.
2. Los GatosOpens in a new window: Los Gatos is an appealing location that blends modern comforts with a touch of local heritage. Ideal for those who enjoy a mix of dining, shopping, and leisurely biking, Los Gatos stands out with must-see spots like Vasona Lake County Park, Winchester Mystery House and Castle Rock Falls. The area's family-friendly vibe and inviting cafes add to its charm, making it a great choice for travellers wanting to experience a bit of everything. Enjoy a walk or a bike ride while soaking in the scenic beauty and exploring its unique local attractions.
3. Pleasure PointOpens in a new window: Pleasure Point is a vibrant seaside spot offering a range of activities centred on its stunning beach and lively cultural scene. It’s the perfect base for those who love the outdoors, with opportunities for walking along the shore, surfing and enjoying the dynamic local entertainment scene. The area’s relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking sunsets over the sea make it a must-stay destination for beach lovers and those seeking a laid-back coastal experience.

Things to do in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz beckons with its stunning coastal landscapes, where golden beaches meet lush forests and rolling mountains. Enjoy exhilarating activities like surfing, hiking through verdant trails, or biking along scenic paths. With opportunities for camping under the stars and exploring tranquil lakes, it's an outdoor enthusiast's dream.

• Winchester Mystery HouseOpens in a new window – Step into the intriguing world of the Winchester Mystery House, a historic mansion filled with architectural oddities and fascinating stories. As you wander through its maze-like corridors, marvel at the countless doors that lead nowhere and the unique design features that add to its mystique.
• Silicon ValleyOpens in a new window – Take a stroll through Silicon Valley, the heart of innovation and technology. Here, you can explore the campuses of renowned tech giants and soak in the atmosphere of creativity and advancement that defines this famous region.
• Capitola BeachOpens in a new window – Relax at Capitola Beach, a picturesque spot known for its vibrant beachfront and charming village atmosphere. Enjoy a sunny day by the sea, build sandcastles, or simply take in the stunning coastal views along the sandy shore.
• Gilroy Gardens Family Theme ParkOpens in a new window – Spend an exciting day at Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park, where beautiful gardens meet thrilling rides. This family-friendly destination offers attractions suited for all ages, ensuring that everyone in the family finds something to enjoy.
• Santa Cruz Beach BoardwalkOpens in a new window – Head over to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, an iconic amusement park featuring classic rides and games. With its lively atmosphere and beachfront location, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a fun-filled day of excitement and entertainment.

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

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Santa Cruz is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For those looking to explore the city's significant landmarks, cultural sites, and historical attractions, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During your visit, you can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, birdwatching, and surfing, all of which offer great value for money. Planning your trip during these months may allow you to take advantage of budget-friendly options, as prices could drop further, making your experience even more economical.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Hotels.com offers a range of options for travellers heading to Santa Cruz. You may discover attractive hotel deals by checking the DealsOpens in a new window section, while last-minute opportunities are available in the Last-Minute Deals section. You're more likely to see reduced rates and special promotions near your travel date. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could find out first about flash sales or price drops, ensuring you have the chance to book a last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could potentially help you find a more affordable stay in a Santa Cruz hotel. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears to be on the higher side, we can suggest alternative dates that may help you discover a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre generally tend to be pricier, but thanks to Santa Cruz's superb public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel located further out that remains well-connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. 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.