Find Cheap Hotels in Santa Cruz, CA from CA $99

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Check availability on Santa Cruz Cheap Hotels

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May 2 - May 3
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May 3 - May 4
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May 8 - May 10
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May 15 - May 17

Our top choices for Santa Cruz cheap hotels

Terrace/patio

Pacific Blue Inn

Pacific Blue Inn
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (917 reviews)
"Perfect location. Staff was really friendly."
United States
Rosa
The price is CA $131
CA $156 total
includes taxes & fees
May 4 - May 5
Pacific Blue Inn
Front of property

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,368 reviews)
"Very clean room, great parking and very friendly staff. "
United States
Samuel
The price is CA $109
CA $143 total
includes taxes & fees
May 4 - May 5
Ocean Pacific Lodge
Property grounds

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
4.0 star property
Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"The stay was nice "
United States
Michelle
The price is CA $161
CA $241 total
includes taxes & fees
May 10 - May 11
Chaminade Resort & Spa
2 Queen Bed + Sofa Bed

Seaside Inn & Suites

Seaside Inn & Suites
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,030 reviews)
"very friendly staff, nice location, easy parking"
United States
Sunyoung
The price is CA $80
CA $116 total
includes taxes & fees
May 5 - May 6
Seaside Inn & Suites
Reception

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
4.0 star property
Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,287 reviews)
"It was awesome! Stayed there to play golf in Monterey!"
United States
Troy
The price is CA $165
CA $189 total
includes taxes & fees
May 19 - May 20
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
Queen Room

Beachview Inn

Beachview Inn
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"Great location and comfortable room!"
United States
Amelia
The price is CA $80
CA $107 total
includes taxes & fees
May 5 - May 6
Beachview Inn
Exterior

Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (932 reviews)
"Great location for reasonably priced hotel. Clean room and nice staff."
United States
Katarina
The price is CA $85
CA $99 total
includes taxes & fees
May 10 - May 11
Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz
Front of property

Mission Inn

Mission Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Rooms are clean, beds very comfy, staff friendly."
United States
Edwin
The price is CA $124
CA $155 total
includes taxes & fees
May 3 - May 4
Mission Inn
Surfing/boogie boarding

Seaway Inn

Seaway Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (198 reviews)
"Rooms were spacious and clean. The close proximity to the beach made for a very relaxing place to spend a couple of days. I would stay there again."
United States
Linda
The price is CA $171
CA $205 total
includes taxes & fees
May 4 - May 5
Seaway 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, (1,005 reviews)
"We really liked how reasonable the rates were, easy to park, very spacious rooms, and super dog-friendly. We enjoyed checking out the small towns and liked how close the hotel was to hiking trails. Plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby."
United States
S.
The price is CA $102
CA $118 total
includes taxes & fees
May 3 - May 4
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
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

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, beckons budget-conscious families eager to explore its abundant natural beauty and vibrant culture without breaking the bank. Start your adventure at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where you can enjoy free entry and reasonably priced rides, perfect for thrilling moments with the kids. Don't miss the scenic trails of Natural Bridges State Beach, where you can marvel at the stunning coastal rock formations and enjoy a picnic on the beach without spending a dime. For a dose of local history and culture, wander through the Santa Cruz Wharf—it's free to stroll, and you can often spot sea lions lounging in the sun. If your family loves wildlife, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center offers affordable admission and engaging exhibits about marine life. For dining, indulge in the local food trucks around the boardwalk, offering delicious meals at budget-friendly prices, making it easy to satisfy everyone's palate. Consider staying in the vibrant downtown area, where numerous budget-friendly hotels provide convenient access to these attractions, allowing you to explore local shops and eateries on foot. The combination of affordability and accessibility makes Santa Cruz an exciting getaway for families seeking quality experiences.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers an array of budget-friendly hotels that cater to travellers seeking value without compromising on comfort. Here are some excellent options to consider for your stay.

Beach Street Inn and Suites

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Beach Street Inn and Suites offers an excellent budget-friendly option for travellers, a guest review rating of 9.4. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi and toiletries, ensuring a comfortable stay without hidden costs. Guests can enjoy easy access to the nearby beach, perfect for sunbathing and leisurely walks along the coast, as well as an inviting outdoor pool for relaxation.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a hot tub, a terrace for sunbathing, and self-parking options. With nearby kayaking and surfing opportunities, active travellers will find plenty to do. The hotel also includes beach towels for guest convenience, ensuring a fulfilling beach getaway. Housekeeping services are provided daily, adding an extra touch of comfort to the stay.
  • 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 a budget-friendly vacation: For budget travellers seeking a modern and convenient stay, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola shines with a remarkable guest review rating of 9.4. Guests will enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast daily, and the hotel boasts an outdoor pool ideal for a refreshing dip. Its location is perfect for those wishing to explore nearby beaches and activities such as kayaking and surfing.
  • Other amenities: The hotel further enhances the stay with amenities like a 24-hour fitness centre, early check-in options, and convenient access to local hiking trails. The presence of electric car charging stations and a snack bar ensures a pleasant and straightforward experience. Guests will also find nearby shopping and entertainment options, making it a well-rounded choice for budget-conscious travellers.
  • 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 a budget-friendly vacation: Ideal for budget-conscious travellers, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz is a great choice with an impressive guest review rating of 9.2. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast options daily, including continental selections on weekends, ensuring a great start to each day. The hotel also features a refreshing outdoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the beautiful beaches nearby.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include a fitness centre available 24 hours, free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, and convenient self-parking options. Guests will appreciate the terrace for relaxation and the nearby local attractions. The hotel also offers electric car charging stations, making it an eco-friendly choice for those travelling with electric vehicles.
  • 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

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-Sea Inn & Suites is a fantastic option for budget travellers, a high guest review rating of 9.2. The hotel offers free breakfast options, including a continental spread, ensuring guests start their day right. The inviting outdoor pool and hot tub area provide a great space for relaxation after a day of exploring the picturesque Capitola Beach.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include complimentary self-parking, free Wi-Fi, and access to nearby hiking and biking trails. Guests can also enjoy spacious suites with separate living areas, making it ideal for those travelling with companions. The hotel’s nearby the beach and boardwalk activities adds to its appeal, ensuring a memorable stay.
  • Nearby attractions: Twin Lakes State Beach - 2.5 km, Capitola Beach - 1.6 km, Capitola Wharf - 1.6 km

Marea Sol Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For those seeking a budget-friendly escape with stunning views, Marea Sol Hotel is an excellent choice, featuring a guest review rating of 9.2. Guests will enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and toiletries, along with beautiful beach access just steps away. The hotel's outdoor pool is perfect for a refreshing swim on warm days, and its rooftop terrace provides a lovely spot to unwind.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include self-parking options and air conditioning for comfort throughout the stay. The hotel also offers partial and ocean views, enhancing the overall experience. Guests can easily explore nearby beaches and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere that Marea Sol provides.
  • 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

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

4/10 Poor
"The room was dirty. The small fridge leaked water overnight. The sheets were old and were leaving lint everywhere. The female person at the front desk was very rude. They promise to give us a discount but ended up charging us more."
Juan 2-night trip
Posted 5 hours ago
Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Santa Cruz as a budget traveler?
For budget-conscious travellers seeking excellent value in Santa Cruz, top options include Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, and Mission Inn.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, with a superb 9.4 rating, offers complimentary breakfast, including a continental option, ensuring a great start to your day without additional cost. Guests consistently praise the clean and spacious rooms, friendly staff, and the delicious breakfast.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, rated 9.2, also provides free breakfast, alongside free WiFi, making it easy to stay connected. Reviewers frequently highlight the spacious and clean rooms, the nice breakfast, and the excellent, friendly staff.

Mission Inn, boasting a 9.2 rating, provides free WiFi and a complimentary continental breakfast, adding to its great value. Customers often mention the comfortable and clean rooms, helpful and professional staff, and its convenient location.
How much does a budget hotel in Santa Cruz cost?
Budget hotel prices in Santa Cruz vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $99 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Santa Cruz is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in Santa Cruz, areas slightly away from the immediate beachfront, such as those along Mission Street or near the university, often present the best value. These locations typically offer lower room rates while still providing convenient access to the city's main attractions via public transport or a short drive.

Solo travellers will find that properties in these areas, including motels and smaller inns, frequently offer good deals, especially outside peak season. Mission Street, for instance, is a major thoroughfare with several accommodation options that are usually more affordable than those directly by the Boardwalk. From here, you can easily catch a bus to the beach, downtown, or the university campus.

Another option for those on a tight budget is to look for accommodations a little further inland, perhaps closer to the foothills. While these might require a bit more travel to reach the coast, they often provide significantly cheaper rates and a quieter atmosphere.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Santa Cruz?
For top-rated, budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz suitable for families, consider the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, and Comfort Inn Beach/Boardwalk Area.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, with an excellent rating of 9.2, is highly praised for its spacious and clean rooms, making it comfortable for families. Guests frequently mention the delicious free continental breakfast, and the staff consistently receives great reviews for their friendly service. The hotel's location is also highlighted as excellent, providing convenient access to local attractions.

Another superb option is the Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, also boasting a 9.2 rating. This hotel offers comfortable and clean rooms, along with a great complimentary continental breakfast. Reviewers often praise the amazing staff and the convenient parking. Its location is particularly noted for being close to the beach, which is ideal for family outings.

The Comfort Inn Beach/Boardwalk Area, rated 7.8, is a practical choice for families seeking good value. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, and the friendly staff are frequently mentioned in reviews.
What cheap hotels in Santa Cruz offer complimentary breakfast?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz that offer complimentary breakfast, excellent choices include Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, Mission Inn, Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, and Hyatt Place Santa Cruz.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, with a superb 9.4 rating, offers guests a delicious complimentary continental breakfast daily, along with free Wi-Fi and free toiletries. Reviewers consistently praise the breakfast as "delicious" and "good," and the rooms are often described as "clean" and "big."

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, rated 9.2, provides a free continental breakfast on weekends, ensuring a great start to your day. Guests frequently highlight the "nice" and "delicious" breakfast, and the rooms are noted for being "spacious" and "clean."

Mission Inn, boasting a 9.2 rating, offers a convenient complimentary continental breakfast. Reviewers appreciate the "convenient" and "good" breakfast, and the rooms are often described as "comfortable" and "clean."

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, also with a 9.2 rating, includes a free continental breakfast. Guests consistently rate the breakfast as "great" and "good," with rooms being "comfortable" and "clean." This hotel also offers free self-parking.

The 3-star Hyatt Place Santa Cruz, rated 9.0, provides a free buffet breakfast, making it easy to fuel up before exploring.
When is the most affordable time to visit Santa Cruz?
The most affordable time to visit Santa Cruz is typically during the shoulder seasons, specifically late spring (April to May) and early autumn (September to October), outside of major holidays. During these periods, you'll generally find lower prices on accommodation and fewer crowds, offering a more relaxed experience.

Solo travellers will appreciate the quieter atmosphere for exploring the natural beauty and vibrant culture without the peak season rush. Accommodation prices, which can skyrocket in summer, tend to be more reasonable, making hostels and guesthouses particularly good value. You can enjoy the beaches and hiking trails around areas like Natural Bridges State Beach or Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park with more space to yourself.

While the famous Beach Boardwalk has seasonal hours, many of Santa Cruz's free attractions, such as West Cliff Drive for scenic walks and surfing views, or the bustling downtown area with its unique shops and street art, are enjoyable year-round.
Are there any cheap Santa Cruz hotels near Monterey Bay?
Yes, for budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz near Monterey Bay, consider the Beach Street Inn and Suites, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, Marea Sol Hotel, and Mission Inn.

The Beach Street Inn and Suites boasts a fantastic 9.4 review rating. Guests frequently praise the clean and comfortable rooms, along with the excellent and friendly staff. It offers great value amenities such as free Wi-Fi and an outdoor heated pool with sun loungers, great for relaxing after a day exploring the bay.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, with a 9.2 rating, provides excellent value with spacious, clean rooms. Travellers often highlight the delicious free breakfast, available on weekends, and the friendly, great customer service. Free Wi-Fi is also included.

For those desiring ocean views, the Marea Sol Hotel, rated 9.2, is a superb choice. Many rooms offer partial or full ocean views from balconies or furnished patios. Guests consistently praise its great location, clean rooms, and excellent, friendly staff. Free Wi-Fi and complimentary toiletries are also provided.

The Mission Inn, with a 9.2 rating, is a convenient and comfortable option. It offers free continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi, which guests find very helpful.
Is Santa Cruz a budget-friendly destination?
While Santa Cruz is generally considered a more expensive destination, particularly during peak season, travellers can absolutely experience its magic on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, look beyond the beachfront and consider staying in areas slightly inland, or exploring options like hostels and guesthouses. For solo travellers, there are several much-loved hostels that provide a social atmosphere without breaking the bank. Booking well in advance, especially during the off-peak season (outside of summer), can also lead to significant savings.

Much of Santa Cruz's appeal lies in its natural beauty, which is largely free to enjoy. Couples can spend days exploring the stunning coastline, relaxing on the many beaches, or hiking in the nearby redwood forests. Take advantage of free activities like walking along the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf, browsing the shops and street performers in Downtown Santa Cruz, or visiting the Natural Bridges State Beach to see the rock formations and tide pools. Packing your own snacks and drinks for beach days or hikes will also help keep costs down.

When it comes to dining, venture away from the main tourist strips and seek out local eateries and food trucks for more affordable and authentic options. Picnics on the beach with groceries from a local supermarket are also a fantastic and budget-friendly way for both couples and solo travellers to enjoy a meal with a view.
What cheap hotels in Santa Cruz offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz offering cooking facilities or kitchenettes, consider the Harbor Inn, Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz, and Surf City Inn and Suites.

The Harbor Inn, with an 8.6 rating, provides kitchenettes in its rooms, superb for preparing your own meals. Guests also benefit from complimentary WiFi and free self-parking, adding to the overall value.

Another solid option is the Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz, rated 8.0. Reviewers often highlight the nice and clean rooms, along with the convenient and easy parking. Its kitchenettes are a great feature for travellers looking to save on dining out.

Surf City Inn and Suites, with a 7.6 rating, also offers kitchen or kitchenette facilities, making it a practical choice for longer stays or for those who prefer to cook.
Which cheap hotels in Santa Cruz have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Santa Cruz with great customer service, travellers often praise Beach Street Inn and Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, Marea Sol Hotel, and Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites.

Beach Street Inn and Suites, with a 9.4 rating, receives excellent feedback for its customer service and friendly staff. Guests particularly appreciate the great service provided by the reception staff. The hotel also offers useful amenities like free WiFi and a private outdoor heated pool.

The Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, rated 9.4, is highly regarded for its amazing and friendly staff. This hotel provides great value with free breakfast, including a continental option, free WiFi, and free toiletries.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, with a 9.2 rating, is known for its good and great customer service, as well as its friendly and great staff. Travellers will appreciate the complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, and free toiletries.

Marea Sol Hotel, rated 9.2, consistently receives excellent and great reviews for its service and customer service, with staff described as helpful and friendly. Many rooms at this hotel offer ocean views or partial ocean views from a balcony or furnished patio.

Finally, the Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, with a 9.2 rating, is celebrated for its great and amazing staff, and good customer service.
Are there any cheap hotels in Santa Cruz that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz are great for handling non-standard arrival or departure times.

The Comfort Inn Beach/Boardwalk Area, with a 7.8 rating, offers early check-in and late check-out options. Guests consistently praise its comfortable and clean rooms, as well as the friendly and amazing staff. The free breakfast and convenient location are also highlighted in reviews.

Another option is the Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz, rated 7.2. This hotel also provides early check-in and late check-out. Travellers appreciate its great location, good breakfast, and clean hot tub. Free continental breakfast and free WiFi are included, adding to its value.

For those seeking flexibility, the 3-star Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, with an 8.0 rating, also offers early check-in and late check-out. Reviewers often mention the clean and quiet rooms, the hot and good breakfast, and the friendly staff. Free buffet breakfast and free WiFi are provided.

Finally, the SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Cruz can accommodate early check-in. Guests frequently mention the helpful front desk and comfortable rooms, with staff often described as very friendly. This hotel offers free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking, including space for RVs, buses, and trucks.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Santa Cruz with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Santa Cruz. Unlock our lowest prices by joining One Key™, Expedia's travel rewards program. It's free and easy to sign up, and you can access member perks too. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz offers a wealth of free activities, superb for budget-conscious travellers looking to experience its unique charm without spending a fortune.

For couples and solo travellers, exploring the city's natural beauty is a must. Stroll along the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, soaking in the lively option and enjoying the ocean breeze – simply being there is an experience in itself. Further down the coast, Natural Bridges State Beach provides stunning photo opportunities with its distinctive rock formations and tide pools. Walking through the quiet residential streets near Lighthouse Field State Beach can also lead to breathtaking cliffside views and the chance to spot surfers.

Beyond the coastline, immerse yourselves in the vibrant culture of downtown Santa Cruz. Wander through Pacific Avenue, browsing the lively shops and street art, or visit the Santa Cruz Wharf, where you can watch sea lions and enjoy panoramic views of the bay. Many local parks, such as Harvey West Park, offer pleasant walking trails and green spaces for a relaxed afternoon.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Santa Cruz as a package?
Booking a 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 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 budget 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 budget hotel in Santa Cruz for you.

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