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Our top choices for Santa Cruz beach hotels

Private beach, kayaking, fishing

Fern River Resort

Fern River Resort
3.0 star property
Felton
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (481 reviews)
"Nice grounds but you have to bring your own coffee and coffee filters if you want coffee in the morning. Wasn’t aware of that and would have liked to relax in the morning while having a cup in the patio area."
United States
Athena
The price is CA $141
CA $179 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 19 - Mar 20
Fern River Resort
Courtyard

Pacific Blue Inn

Pacific Blue Inn
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (906 reviews)
"We enjoyed our night stay. Room was clean and accommodating. Hotel was secure and quiet. I would defintely stay again. "
United States
Melissa
The price is CA $122
CA $146 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 17 - Mar 18
Pacific Blue Inn
Surfing/boogie boarding

Seaway Inn

Seaway Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (165 reviews)
"Staff friendly and professional "
United States
Maria
The price is CA $158
CA $191 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 17 - Mar 18
Seaway Inn
Carriage House (Pets Allowed) | View from room

Monarch Cove Inn

Monarch Cove Inn
3.5 star property
Capitola
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (966 reviews)
"The staff (Katrina) was very professional and responsive to our requests , love the nature walk around the property "
United States
Malina
The price is CA $262
CA $298 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 16 - Mar 17
Monarch Cove Inn
Exterior

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
3.0 star property
Boulder Creek
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,003 reviews)
"Clean hotel with a great view "
United States
Veronica
The price is CA $118
CA $137 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 16 - Mar 17
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
Property grounds

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
4.0 star property
Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,003 reviews)
"Restaurant and hotel staff were very friendly. "
United States
Michael
The price is CA $191
CA $276 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 13 - Apr 14
Chaminade Resort & Spa
Exterior

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages
3.5 star property
Eastside Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (589 reviews)
"Beautiful stay, great location, clean cottages and accommodating staff!"
United States
George
The price is CA $249
CA $285 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 17 - Mar 18
Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages
Business centre

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,246 reviews)
"Clean and friendly staff. I will definitely stay here again."
United States
Gabriela
The price is CA $267
CA $305 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 19 - Mar 20
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Front of property

Mission Inn

Mission Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"We love the location, it’s perfect for when we visit our children who attend UCSC!!"
United States
Roxana
The price is CA $154
CA $188 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 17 - Mar 18
Mission Inn
Exterior

Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,421 reviews)
"Great location and amazing hotel"
United States
Julie
The price is CA $221
CA $254 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 16 - Mar 17
Marea Sol Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Choose what matters most at beach hotels in Santa Cruz

Pool
Breakfast included

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Beach hotels with pools in Santa Cruz

Couples treatment rooms, sauna, steam room, body treatments
La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa
4.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (158)
The price is CA $316
CA $431 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 22 - Mar 23
La Bahia Hotel and Spa
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Beach hotels with free breakfast in Santa Cruz

Business centre
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1246)
The price is CA $267
CA $305 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 19 - Mar 20
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
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4-star beach hotels in Santa Cruz

Couples treatment rooms, sauna, steam room, body treatments
La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa
4.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (158)
The price is CA $316
CA $431 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 22 - Mar 23
La Bahia Hotel and Spa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Find out more about Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz and its attractions for beach lovers

Santa Cruz, California, is a paradise for beach lovers, offering an array of activities that will delight both families and adventurous travellers. Start your day at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where thrilling rides and classic arcade games meet the golden sands, creating perfect family memories. Just a short stroll away is Natural Bridges State Beach, renowned for its stunning rock formations and tide pools, ideal for exploring marine life with your children. For those looking to unwind, Seabright Beach offers a quieter atmosphere, perfect for sunbathing or enjoying a picnic while watching surfers ride the waves. Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll through the lush trails of Wilder Ranch State Park, which provides breathtaking coastal views and the chance to spot dolphins offshore. Finally, for a bit of local charm, the Santa Cruz Wharf is a must-visit, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and take in panoramic views of the ocean. When it comes to accommodation, consider staying near the vibrant Boardwalk area or along West Cliff Drive, where hotels offer easy access to both the beach and the area's attractions, ensuring a seamless experience filled with relaxation and adventure. Enjoy attentive service and family-friendly amenities that cater to your every need, making your stay as memorable as the stunning sunsets over the Pacific.

Find the best beach hotels and resorts in Santa Cruz

For those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the coastal charm of Santa Cruz, these hotels offer the perfect beachside retreats with a variety of amenities to enhance your seaside experience.

Beach Street Inn and Suites

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Beach Street Inn and Suites offers a delightful beach getaway with direct access to the golden sands and stunning ocean views, earning an impressive guest review rating of 9.4. The hotel boasts a heated outdoor pool and hot tub, providing guests with the perfect spot to relax after a fun day on the beach or exploring nearby attractions.
  • Other amenities: Guests can enjoy a terrace for sunbathing and relaxing, along with free beach towels for convenience. The hotel also features a concierge service to assist with local recommendations, along with free long-distance calls from rooms. Each room is equipped with a microwave and balcony or patio for a personal touch. With a well-maintained outdoor pool area and daily housekeeping, Beach Street Inn and Suites is a fantastic choice for beachgoers.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.3 km, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.3 km, Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.5 km

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: The Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz – Capitola is a fantastic option for beach lovers, offering nearby the beach and thrilling water sports activities, all backed by a stellar review rating of 9.4. Guests can indulge in complimentary breakfast each morning and enjoy a refreshing outdoor pool, making it a delightful base for seaside adventures.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features accessible parking and electric car charging stations for eco-conscious travelers. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the 24-hour fitness facilities, while those looking to explore the area can find hiking and biking nearby. Each room comes equipped with premium bedding, a microwave, and toiletries to enhance the stay. With a snack bar and continental breakfast available, guests can enjoy convenience throughout their visit.
  • Nearby attractions: Twin Lakes State Beach - 2.4 km, Capitola Beach - 1.5 km, Capitola Wharf - 1.5 km

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz is an ideal choice for beach lovers with its convenient location just a short distance from the sandy shores. Guests can enjoy ocean views from their rooms, complemented by a review rating of 9.2 that speaks to the quality of service and comfort. The outdoor pool invites travelers to relax after a day at the beach, while complimentary breakfast ensures a delightful start to the day.
  • Other amenities: This hotel features a terrace perfect for soaking up the sun, a fitness centre for those looking to stay active, and accessible parking options. Guests can also take advantage of free toiletries, daily housekeeping, and a microwave in their rooms for added convenience. With sun loungers by the pool and bike parking available, La Quinta Inn ensures a pleasant stay for beach enthusiasts seeking comfort and leisure.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.2 km, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.2 km, Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.3 km

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Dream Inn Santa Cruz stands out as a luxurious beachfront hotel, a prime location right on the sand and a stunning ocean view that delights guests, reflected in its exceptional review rating of 9.2. With a beachfront restaurant offering delicious meals and poolside service, this hotel ensures a memorable seaside experience for all travelers.
  • Other amenities: Guests can indulge in spa services for relaxation, while the outdoor heated pool and sun loungers provide an inviting area to unwind. The hotel also features valet parking, room service, and a concierge to enhance the guest experience. With a range of amenities including a fireplace, refrigerator, and complimentary coffee/tea makers in-room, Dream Inn Santa Cruz is the perfect luxury beach retreat.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.2 km, Cowell's Beach - 0 km, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.1 km

Marea Sol Hotel

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Marea Sol Hotel is a charming choice for beach enthusiasts, promising direct access to the beach and beautiful ocean views, supported by an inviting review rating of 9.2. Guests can relax in the outdoor pool or on their furnished balcony, soaking in the coastal atmosphere just steps from the shore.
  • Other amenities: The hotel also features a self-parking option and a rooftop terrace ideal for sunset views. Each room is equipped with air conditioning and free toiletries for added comfort. With an accessible pool and daily housekeeping, Marea Sol Hotel provides a welcoming retreat for those looking to unwind by the beach.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.3 km, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.3 km, Main Beach - 0.2 km

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

10/10 Excellent
"Great poool area "
Mucio 3-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Frequently asked questions

What are the best beach hotels in Santa Cruz?
Some of the best beach hotels in Santa Cruz include Beach Street Inn and Suites, Marea Sol Hotel, and Dream Inn Santa Cruz.

Beach Street Inn and Suites, with a 9.4 rating, is located directly on the beach, offering ocean views from many of its rooms. Guests often praise its heated outdoor pool and comfortable beds.

The Marea Sol Hotel, rated 9.2, provides direct beach access and features rooms with ocean views and furnished balconies or patios. Many guests highlight its great location and clean rooms.

For a 4-star option, Dream Inn Santa Cruz, also with a 9.2 rating, is situated right on the beach. It boasts an outdoor pool with a poolside bar and offers beautiful ocean views. Reviewers frequently mention its friendly staff and excellent restaurant.
How much does a beach hotel in Santa Cruz cost?
Prices for beach hotels in Santa Cruz vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $89 on Expedia. You're likely to find lower rates if you're travelling during the off-peak season or mid-week. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.
Which Santa Cruz hotels are near the best beaches?
For hotels near the best beaches in Santa Cruz, consider Beach Street Inn and Suites, Marea Sol Hotel, and Dream Inn Santa Cruz.

The Beach Street Inn and Suites, with a 9.4 rating, offers direct access to the beach and ocean views from some rooms. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor heated pool with sun loungers and umbrellas.

Marea Sol Hotel, rated 9.2, provides direct beach access and features ocean views from some rooms, often with a balcony or furnished patio. Some rooms also have a rooftop terrace.

The 4-star Dream Inn Santa Cruz, also with a 9.2 rating, is located directly on the beach, offering beach and ocean views. It has an outdoor pool and a poolside bar for guests to enjoy.
Which beach hotels in Santa Cruz are good for families?
For families seeking beach hotels in Santa Cruz, consider the Beach Street Inn and Suites, Marea Sol Hotel, or Dream Inn Santa Cruz.

The Beach Street Inn and Suites has a 9.4 rating and is located directly by the ocean, offering ocean views and direct beach access. It features a heated outdoor pool with sun loungers and umbrellas, and guests frequently mention the comfortable beds and friendly staff.

Marea Sol Hotel, with a 9.2 rating, provides direct access to the beach and offers ocean views, with some rooms featuring balconies or furnished balconies. Guests often highlight its superb location and clean rooms.

The 4-star Dream Inn Santa Cruz, rated 9.2, is situated right on the beach, offering ocean, beach, and partial ocean views. It has an outdoor pool with a poolside bar and sun loungers. Reviewers consistently praise its beautiful rooms and great staff.
What are the best Santa Cruz hotels with ocean views?
Some of the best Santa Cruz hotels with ocean views include the Beach Street Inn and Suites, Marea Sol Hotel, and the Dream Inn Santa Cruz.

The Beach Street Inn and Suites, with a 9.4 rating, offers direct beach access and features private and heated outdoor pools with sun loungers. Customers often highlight the nice and clean rooms and the amazing location.

The Marea Sol Hotel, rated 9.2, provides direct beach access and boasts ocean view balconies or patios, with some rooms offering a furnished balcony or access to a rooftop terrace. Guests frequently mention the great location and clean rooms.

The 4-star Dream Inn Santa Cruz, with a 9.2 rating, offers full ocean and beach views and is located right on the beach. It features an outdoor pool with a poolside bar and sun loungers. Reviewers often praise the beautiful rooms and the excellent restaurant.
What are the top-rated beach hotels in Santa Cruz with a pool?
For top-rated beach hotels in Santa Cruz with a pool, consider Dream Inn Santa Cruz, La Bahia Hotel and Spa, and Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection.

The 4-star Dream Inn Santa Cruz, with a 9.2 rating, is highly regarded for its direct beachfront location, with many rooms offering beach or ocean views. It features an outdoor pool and a poolside bar, and customers frequently mention its excellent location right on the beach.

La Bahia Hotel and Spa is a 4.5-star property with an impressive 9.8 rating. While it is located near the beach, it boasts an outdoor resort-inclusive pool and offers spa services including hydrotherapy treatments and hot stone massage.

The 4-star Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, rated 8.6, provides an outdoor pool with cabanas, sun loungers, and a poolside bar. It is also located near the ocean, offering a convenient base for beach visits.
Which beach hotels in Santa Cruz are good for couples?
For couples looking for a beach hotel in Santa Cruz, consider La Bahia Hotel and Spa, Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages, or The Boardwalk Beach House.

The 4.5-star La Bahia Hotel and Spa, with a 9.8 rating, offers ocean views and a full-service spa with a wide range of treatments, including couples' treatment rooms and thalassotherapy.

The 3.5-star Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages, rated 8.8, is located near the ocean and provides partial ocean views. Guests often mention the great location and friendly staff.

The Boardwalk Beach House, with a 7.6 rating, is near the beach and offers beach views. It also includes free local breakfast and free self-parking.
Which area of Santa Cruz is best to stay in for beaches?
The best area in Santa Cruz for beach access is the area immediately surrounding the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Main Beach.

This central area puts you right on the doorstep of the city's most famous stretch of sand. You'll find a range of hotels directly across from the beach and within a short walk of the Boardwalk's attractions, including amusement park rides and arcade games. West Cliff Drive, a scenic coastal path, starts here, offering lovely views and walks.

Families will find this location particularly convenient. With the beach just steps away and the Boardwalk providing entertainment for all ages, it minimises travel time and keeps everyone happily occupied. There are plenty of casual eateries nearby, great for quick meals between beach sessions.

Couples looking for a lively beach holiday will also appreciate this area. You can easily spend your days relaxing on the sand, strolling along the pier, and enjoying the lively option.
Which top beach hotels in Santa Cruz offer water sport activities?
For top beach hotels in Santa Cruz that offer water sport activities, consider Beach Street Inn and Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, and West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn.

The Beach Street Inn and Suites, with a 9.4 rating, offers direct beach access and is located very near the ocean. Guests can enjoy private and outdoor heated pools, and the location is ideal for kayaking, surfing, and bodyboarding.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, rated 9.4, provides free breakfast and is near the beach. This hotel is conveniently located for kayaking, surfing, bodyboarding, windsurfing, and scuba diving, and it also offers water sports equipment.

The 3.5-star West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn, with a 9.0 rating, features partial ocean views and is close to the beach, making it suitable for snorkelling and windsurfing. It also provides a complimentary full breakfast.
What is the best time of year to stay in a beach hotel in Santa Cruz?
The most popular time to stay in a beach hotel in Santa Cruz is during the summer, particularly in July and August. The weather is delightfully warm, with average temperatures hovering around 22-25°C, creating superb conditions for soaking up the sun on Main Beach or catching waves at Steamer Lane.

During these peak months, the city truly comes alive with a vibrant beach atmosphere. It's an ideal time for families to enjoy the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and for couples to stroll along the wharf, taking in the ocean views. The long, sunny days mean plenty of time for all your favourite watersports and beachfront relaxation.

For a slightly different, yet equally appealing, experience, May is a fantastic alternative. While the ocean might still be a touch cool for some, the weather is beautifully mild, typically ranging from 18-20°C, making it excellent for coastal walks and exploring the natural beauty of Natural Bridges State Beach.
How can I save on a beach hotel in Santa Cruz with Expedia?
With Expedia, you'll unlock our lowest prices by becoming a One Key™ member. It's free and easy to join, and you can even access member perks too. Just remember to sign in to get our best prices on Santa Cruz beach hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel. If you're feeling spontaneous, check out the last-minute deals.
What beach activities should we do in Santa Cruz?
The best beach activities in Santa Cruz centre around the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the natural beauty of its coastline.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a must-visit, offering a classic seaside amusement park experience right on the sand. You can ride the historic Giant Dipper rollercoaster or the Looff Carousel, both National Historic Landmarks. For a more relaxed time, enjoy the arcade games, grab some classic boardwalk food like corn dogs and funnel cakes, or simply stroll along the beach, which is well-maintained and provides plenty of space for sunbathing and building sandcastles. This area is superb for families looking for a fun-filled day with plenty of entertainment options.

For those seeking a more tranquil beach experience, Natural Bridges State Beach, located a short drive west of the Boardwalk, is ideal. It's famous for its natural rock formations, including the iconic arch bridge that gives the beach its name. The beach is excellent for exploring tide pools at low tide, where you can spot sea stars, anemones, and crabs. It's also a prime spot for monarch butterfly viewing from October to February. Couples or nature lovers will appreciate the scenic beauty and opportunities for quiet walks and wildlife observation.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a beach hotel in Santa Cruz as a package?
Booking a beach hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking a beach vacation package well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my beach hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right beach hotel in Santa Cruz for you.

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