Find hotels in Santa Cruz, CA from SAR 233

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and family fun.
• Iconic Boardwalk: Experience the thrilling rides and attractions at the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
• Vibrant Downtown: Explore local shops, restaurants, and nightlife in the lively downtown area.
• Natural Beauty: Discover nearby national and state parks, including the picturesque Santa Cruz Mountains.
• Diverse Accommodations: Enjoy a range of hotels and motels catering to all budgets and preferences.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Discover a variety of hotel accommodations in Santa Cruz, California, tailored to meet your every need. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly options, convenient business facilities, or an adventurous vacation experience, the local hotels and resorts offer a welcoming atmosphere. From budget-friendly stays to luxurious escapes, you'll find the perfect spot to relax and explore the beautiful coastal scenery and vibrant culture Santa Cruz has to offer.

• La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley: Located 37.0km from Santa Cruz, La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley is a 3.5-star hotel that caters to business travelers seeking a blend of comfort and functionality. This hotel features well-appointed rooms equipped with modern amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, a business center, and meeting facilities. Guests can unwind at the outdoor pool or enjoy a relaxing evening at the on-site restaurant, which serves a variety of delectable dishes. With its convenient location, this hotel is ideal for those looking to balance work and leisure during their stay.
• Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell: Situated 35.4km from Santa Cruz, Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell is a 3.5-star hotel that caters to both business and pet-friendly travelers. The hotel provides spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens, perfect for longer stays. Guests will appreciate the pet-friendly policy, allowing dogs and cats with certain restrictions, and the complimentary breakfast offered each morning. Business amenities include a meeting room and business center, making it an excellent choice for working professionals who travel with their furry companions.
• Los Gatos Lodge: Just 27.4km away from Santa Cruz, Los Gatos Lodge is a charming 3-star hotel known for its inviting atmosphere and pet-friendly policies. The lodge features comfortable rooms adorned with rustic decor, along with amenities such as an outdoor pool and spa. Guests can take advantage of the serene gardens and BBQ facilities, making it an excellent spot for relaxation after a day of exploration. With its convenient access to local attractions, Los Gatos Lodge is a perfect base for both leisure travelers and their pets.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, is a haven for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Its scenic beaches offer a perfect backdrop for family-friendly fun, while the welcoming atmosphere invites relaxation. Explore the vibrant downtown and enjoy excursions to nearby attractions, including the iconic city of San Francisco. Whether you're surfing the waves or strolling along the shore, Santa Cruz promises an enjoyable vacation filled with friendly people and unforgettable experiences.

• Capitola: Nestled just 6.4km from Santa Cruz, Capitola is a charming coastal city known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Travelers flock here for outdoor activities, family-friendly experiences, and stunning ocean views. The local attractions include a delightful amusement park and a scenic boardwalk, perfect for leisurely strolls and family fun. Capitola's beaches are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports, while the nearby bay offers opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. The best time to visit is from April to July when the weather is warm and lively events abound.
• Westside Santa Cruz: Located within the Santa Cruz area, Westside Santa Cruz is a vibrant neighborhood known for its laid-back vibe and stunning coastal scenery. This area experiences a steady flow of visitors year-round, with peaks during the summer months. Families and outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to beautiful beaches, a popular amusement park, and educational attractions. The local landmarks, including the iconic theme park and serene bay, add to the area’s appeal. With its welcoming atmosphere and array of activities, Westside Santa Cruz is perfect for creating lasting memories with loved ones.
• Eastside Santa Cruz: Another inviting neighborhood within Santa Cruz, Eastside Santa Cruz offers visitors a blend of outdoor adventures and beachside relaxation. Like its counterpart, it sees consistent visitor numbers, particularly during the summer months. Families will enjoy the accessible amusement park and boardwalk, while the scenic beaches provide a perfect backdrop for sun-soaked afternoons. The area’s local attractions, including the enchanting theme park and picturesque bay, enhance its charm. Eastside Santa Cruz is an ideal destination for those seeking a mix of fun, relaxation, and family bonding.

Things to do in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is perfect for outdoor and family beach vacations, offering a mix of fun activities. Enjoy the iconic amusement park and boardwalk, explore local shops and restaurants, and discover the vibrant nightlife. Don't miss the fright walk for a thrilling experience, and take the time to explore the beautiful surroundings of Santa Cruz. It's an ideal destination for a memorable getaway.

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, explore Ocean Street for a vibrant shopping experience with local shops and eateries. For more variety, visit Capitola Mercantile, located 6.4km away, offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, check out Swift Street Courtyard for a unique blend of shopping and dining.

Recreation

At Pasatiempo Golf Course, enjoy a scenic round of golf amidst lush landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Treks and Tracks Rock Climbing Trips offers invigorating climbing adventures just five miles from Santa Cruz, promoting wellness through physical activity. For relaxation, visit Luminescence Healing Haven for soothing body treatments, located eleven miles away.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of ziplining at the TreeTop Walk, located 9.7km from Santa Cruz, where you can soar through the treetops surrounded by nature. For a different adventure, head 38.6km to Santa Clara Paintball for an exciting paintball experience with friends.

Enjoy a scenic hike at Ox Trailhead, located 6.4km from Santa Cruz, where you'll be immersed in beautiful landscapes and outdoor vibes. It's a perfect spot for adventure and exploration.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Santa Cruz offers a vibrant mix of entertainment. Visit Boardwalk Bowl for arcade fun, or enjoy the thrilling Sky Glider ride. For a more cultural experience, the Flint Center for the Performing Arts, located 38.6km away, provides a romantic atmosphere with captivating performances.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Cruz

To save money during your visit to Santa Cruz, take advantage of the free attractions like the University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz Wharf, and Pacific Avenue. For transportation, consider using the bus system, which is budget-friendly. Plan your visit between November and January for lower accommodation rates, especially on Mondays, while avoiding Saturdays for the highest prices. Use Expedia to find great deals by sorting options from lowest to highest price and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for extra 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: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• 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 an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a beach vacation. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, national and state parks, and the scenic jetty pier. Key attractions include the Santa Cruz Wharf and the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains. With a variety of motels available, travelers can enjoy a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures in this charming coastal city.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience the thrill of this historic amusement park featuring classic rides, arcade games, and beachside attractions. With its vibrant atmosphere and ocean views, it’s perfect for families looking to create unforgettable memories.
• Mystery Spot: Discover the fascinating optical illusions and gravitational anomalies at this quirky exhibit. Steeped in local lore, the Mystery Spot offers a unique blend of fun and culture that will leave you questioning reality.
• Capitola Beach: Just 6.4km from Santa Cruz, this picturesque beach offers a serene escape with stunning views, soft sands, and charming beachfront shops. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation, sunbathing, and enjoying the coastal vibe.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Cruz falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Cruz falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Cruz

For your vacation in Santa Cruz, California, you can fly into three major airports. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is 77.2km away and offers nearby luxury hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco and Palace Hotel, both providing Transfers and Shuttles to the airport. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 45.1km away, with excellent accommodations such as the 5-star Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto and the Santa Clara Marriott, both conveniently located for easy airport access. OAKland International Airport (OAK) is 83.7km away, featuring hotels like the Claremont Resort & Club and 1 Hotel San Francisco, also accessible through nearby transportation options.