Find hotels in Santa Cruz, CA from CA $103

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and beach activities.
• Iconic Boardwalk: The lively Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk features amusement rides, games, and eateries, ideal for family fun.
• Outdoor Adventures: Explore scenic state parks and picturesque bays for hiking, biking, and nature experiences.
• Vibrant Local Culture: Enjoy a mix of local restaurants, shops, and cultural events that reflect the community's spirit.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from an array of lodging options, from pet-friendly hotels to charming resorts.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Discover the charm of Santa Cruz with a variety of hotel accommodations tailored to suit every traveler's needs. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly options, a business-friendly environment, or an adventurous getaway, you'll find the perfect place to stay. From the best hotels to luxurious suites, Santa Cruz offers a diverse selection that ensures a memorable experience for every visitor.

• La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley: Nestled 37.0km from Santa Cruz, La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley is a 3.5-star hotel that embodies a distinctive blend of comfort and functionality, making it ideal for business travellers. The property boasts spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities, a well-appointed business centre, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can unwind after a busy day in the inviting outdoor pool or enjoy a delicious complimentary breakfast to kickstart their day. With its convenient location near Silicon Valley, it's a perfect choice for those looking to balance work and leisure.
• Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell: Located 35.4km from Santa Cruz, Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell is a charming 3.5-star accommodation that welcomes both travellers and their pets. This property is a haven for pet owners, featuring thoughtful amenities like a pet-friendly policy and ample outdoor space for furry companions. The hotel offers spacious suites with kitchenettes, perfect for extended stays, along with a complimentary breakfast and a fitness centre. Its welcoming atmosphere and business-friendly services make it an excellent choice for both work and relaxation.
• Extended Stay America Suites San Jose Edenvale South: Situated 35.4km from Santa Cruz, Extended Stay America Suites San Jose Edenvale South is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on comfort. This hotel is designed for long-term stays, featuring fully equipped kitchens in each suite, making it convenient for self-catering. Pets are welcome here, ensuring that you don’t have to leave your furry friends behind. With its business-friendly amenities and a friendly atmosphere, this property caters to both working professionals and families looking for an affordable getaway.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, offers an incredible vacation experience, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. From its stunning beaches to vibrant nightlife, there's something for everyone. Explore the friendly neighbourhoods, indulge in local excursions, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Don't miss out on the best beaches and convenient locations that make Santa Cruz a favourite destination for visitors seeking relaxation and adventure in equal measure.

• Capitola: Located a mere 6.4km from Santa Cruz, Capitola is a charming seaside city that offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventure and family-friendly experiences. With a moderately seasonal influx of visitors, the peak travel months of April and from June to July see families flocking to its beautiful beaches and recreational areas. Capitola is famous for its vibrant beach scene, quaint shops, and stunning bay views, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day by the water. Don’t miss the local amusement park and boardwalk, which add to the fun-filled atmosphere.
• Westside Santa Cruz: Nestled around Santa Cruz, Westside Santa Cruz is a lively neighbourhood that boasts a year-round appeal. While visitor numbers peak during the summer months from June to August, its charm remains constant throughout the year. Known for its outdoor activities and family-friendly atmosphere, this area offers access to beautiful beaches and educational venues. With attractions like the iconic theme park and the scenic bay, Westside Santa Cruz is perfect for both relaxation and adventure, making it an excellent choice for tourists seeking a well-rounded vacation experience.
• Twin Lakes: Situated within the Santa Cruz area, Twin Lakes is a quaint village that offers a seasonal travel experience, with peak visitor numbers from June to August. This picturesque location is ideal for families looking for outdoor fun and beach activities. The village is home to beautiful family-friendly beaches and a variety of recreational areas, along with access to an amusement park and boardwalk for endless entertainment. Twin Lakes is the perfect getaway for those wanting to soak up the sun and enjoy the vibrant coastal lifestyle.

Things to do near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is an ideal destination for outdoor and family beach vacations, featuring attractions like an amusement park and a lively boardwalk. Visitors can enjoy exploring a variety of restaurants and surfing hubs, making it a perfect spot for those seeking adventure and relaxation by the ocean.

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, visit the Pacific Garden Mall for unique shops and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Flea Market, where you can discover a variety of treasures and handmade goods from local vendors.

Recreation

Algonquin Dog Park is a tranquil country club located 40.2km from Santa Cruz, offering a luxurious atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Experience the beauty of nature while enjoying recreational activities in this serene setting, surrounded by lush landscapes and the calming presence of furry friends.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk with its iconic rides and games. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby redwood forests offer hiking trails and zip-lining adventures, while the stunning coastline invites surfing lessons and paddleboarding. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal gem.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Catalyst on Pacific Avenue, where you can enjoy live music and dance. For a laid-back vibe, visit the 99 Bottles on Soquel Avenue, offering a wide selection of craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Cruz

• 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: Expedia's search tool makes it easy for you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some 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 offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and stunning beaches, making it an ideal vacation spot. Explore attractions like the Santa Cruz Wharf, Cowell Beach, and the beautiful Monterey Bay, all while soaking in the local culture. Additionally, a trip to San Francisco is a great option for those looking to expand their experience beyond Santa Cruz.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience the thrill of this iconic amusement park, offering a mix of family-friendly rides and adventurous attractions, all set against the backdrop of stunning beaches. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the sound of laughter as you explore the classic boardwalk games and delicious treats.
• Monterey Bay: Just a short drive away, Monterey Bay boasts breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Stroll along the beaches, take in the coastal views, or participate in exciting marine adventures, such as kayaking or whale watching.
• Mystery Spot: Delve into the intriguing world of the Mystery Spot, an exhibit known for its optical illusions and gravitational anomalies. This unique attraction offers a fascinating glimpse into local culture and fun mysteries that will leave you bewildered.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	54.7°F (12.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	60.1°F (15.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	63.3°F (17.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	63.9°F (17.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	61.5°F (16.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Cruz

When visiting Santa Cruz, California, you can fly into three major airports. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is 77.2km away, with luxurious hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco, Taj Campton Place, and the Palace Hotel, all offering transfer services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 45.1km away, featuring top-notch accommodations such as Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto and Santa Clara Marriott, both conveniently accessible. Lastly, OAKland International Airport (OAK) is 83.7km from Santa Cruz, with excellent options like Claremont Resort & Club and 1 Hotel San Francisco, also providing nearby transportation services.