Hotels in Santa Cruz

Embrace the Ocean's Whisper: Unveil the Coastal Charm of Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, is a vibrant coastal gem that beautifully marries sun-kissed beaches with lush Santa Cruz Mountains. Famous for its iconic Beach Boardwalk, visitors can enjoy thrilling rides, sandy shores, and picturesque ocean views. The area is a surfer's paradise, boasting world-class surf spots and a lively wharf filled with fresh seafood and local charm. Stroll through the charming downtown, explore redwood forests, or relax on scenic beaches. Whether you're seeking adventure or a romantic getaway, Santa Cruz's unique blend of culture, nature, and laid-back vibe offers an unforgettable escape.

Discover great hotels in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers a variety of accommodations, from charming boutique hotels to beachfront properties with stunning ocean views. You'll find friendly hotels near the iconic boardwalk and easy access to sandy shores, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway by the sea. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Santa Cruz:

1. Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the SeaOpens in a new window: This inviting 2.5-star hotel offers a delightful atmosphere for family travelers seeking a comfortable vacation experience. With convenient amenities such as complimentary cribs, it ensures a hassle-free stay for those with young children. Visitors appreciate the family-friendly services that enhance their overall experience, making it a popular choice among families looking to create lasting memories. The hotel’s friendly ambiance and accommodating features resonate well with guests, ensuring a pleasant retreat.
2. Capitola Venetian HotelOpens in a new window: Capitola Venetian Hotel is a charming 2.5-star hotel that delivers a perfect beach vacation experience. With direct access to the beach, guests can easily enjoy the sun and surf, making it an excellent choice for leisure travelers. The hotel's breezy vibe and location cater to those seeking a relaxing seaside getaway. Travelers appreciate the seamless access to beach activities and the laid-back atmosphere, making it a favored destination for those looking to unwind by the ocean.
3. Capitola HotelOpens in a new window: Capitola Hotel is an adventurous 3.5-star hotel that invites thrill-seekers to enjoy a unique vacation experience. With an array of adventure sports and recreational activities available both onsite and nearby, guests can indulge in hiking, surfing, and kayaking, creating an unforgettable stay. The hotel’s focus on adventure and exploration resonates deeply with active travelers, who value the opportunity to immerse themselves in the surrounding natural beauty. Its vibrant atmosphere and recreational offerings create an exciting backdrop for an adventurous getaway.

Top locations to stay in Santa Cruz

In Capitola, Aptos, and Scotts Valley, each area offers unique attractions. Capitola is charming with its beachside views and vibrant seaside village atmosphere. Aptos features beautiful beaches and biking trails nestled near the ocean. Scotts Valley provides a peaceful retreat in the Santa Cruz Mountains, ideal for exploring nature. For first-time visitors, Capitola is best suited due to its scenic beach and lively ambiance.

1. CapitolaOpens in a new window: Capitola is a charming coastal village, perfect for those who love the beach and sea. Its picturesque shoreline features colorful beachfront cottages and a vibrant village atmosphere. You can soak up the sun on Capitola Beach or explore the many unique shops and art galleries along the Esplanade. The area also hosts seasonal events and festivals, adding to its lively vibe. With its stunning ocean views and laid-back culture, Capitola offers a delightful escape for travelers seeking relaxation and seaside fun.
2. AptosOpens in a new window: Aptos is another fantastic option for beach lovers, known for its beautiful coastline and serene environment. This area boasts several lovely beaches, including Seacliff State Beach, which is perfect for picnics and sunset strolls. Aptos is also great for outdoor enthusiasts, with nearby parks offering hiking trails and scenic views. Its quaint village atmosphere includes local shops and farmers' markets, making it a cozy spot to unwind and enjoy the coastal lifestyle.
3. Scotts ValleyOpens in a new window: Scotts Valley is a hidden gem nestled in the redwoods, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the beach crowds. This area is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, making it ideal for hiking and exploring local parks. With its close proximity to Santa Cruz, you can easily enjoy the beach and cultural attractions while returning to the tranquility of Scotts Valley. The charming downtown area features local shops and cafes, perfect for a relaxed day of shopping and enjoying the local vibe.

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz beckons travelers with its stunning coastline, lush forests, and rolling mountains, creating a perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy sun-soaked days on pristine beaches, catch waves at famed surf spots, or explore scenic trails for hiking and biking. From camping under the stars to kayaking in tranquil waters, the natural beauty here invites adventure and relaxation alike.

• Capitola BeachOpens in a new window – Relax on the sandy shores of Capitola Beach, where colorful beach houses line the coast and the gentle waves invite you for a swim. Stroll along the beachfront promenade, grab a bite at a local café, or simply soak up the sun while enjoying the stunning ocean views.
• Roaring Camp RailroadsOpens in a new window – Hop aboard a historic train at Roaring Camp Railroads and take a scenic ride through the redwood forest. Experience the nostalgia of steam locomotives while learning about the area's rich logging history. It’s a fun outing for families and history enthusiasts alike!
• Rio Del Mar BeachOpens in a new window – Spend a day at Rio Del Mar Beach, a serene spot perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, and enjoying a picnic with ocean views. The wide expanse of sand is ideal for building sandcastles or playing beach games with family and friends.
• Santa Cruz Beach BoardwalkOpens in a new window – Dive into excitement at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, an amusement park filled with thrilling rides, classic games, and delicious treats. Take a spin on the iconic Giant Dipper roller coaster or try your luck at winning a prize!
• Santa Cruz WharfOpens in a new window – Stroll along the Santa Cruz Wharf, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, watch sea lions basking in the sun, and take in picturesque views of the coastline. Stop by local shops or rent a kayak to explore the waters up close.

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

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Santa Cruz is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a great value for money experience, staying at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully explore the city's key historical landmarks and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, birdwatching, and various beach sports, including surfing. This way, you can immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture that Santa Cruz has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals for hotels in Santa Cruz, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications can keep you informed about flash sales and special promotions, potentially leading to great savings on your hotel stay. Additionally, the Smart Shopping feature in the app allows you to compare room rates and amenities, helping you identify the best options available. This way, if prices drop or new rooms open up, you could be the first to book your perfect 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 help you save on your stay in a Santa Cruz hotel. If you're in search of distinctive lodging options, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll suggest alternative dates that may offer more affordable options, helping you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Santa Cruz's great public transportation options, you might discover more affordable independent hotels a bit farther away that are still well-connected. If you're interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, you can often find excellent value for your money. Opting for these alternative locations 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 tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Santa Cruz are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.