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Our top choices for Santa Cruz beach hotels

Courtyard

Pacific Blue Inn

Pacific Blue Inn
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (912 reviews)
The price is CA $123
CA $147 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 16 - Apr 17
Pacific Blue Inn
Property grounds

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
4.0 star property
Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,003 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Relax with serene ocean views, sandy shores, and complimentary beach shuttle.
The price is CA $194
CA $280 total
includes taxes & fees
May 11 - May 12
Chaminade Resort & Spa
Outdoor spa tub

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,333 reviews)
The price is CA $111
CA $145 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 13 - Apr 14
Ocean Pacific Lodge
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)
  • cleanliness
    Unwind on the sandy shores near this historic lodge with beach walks and surf adventures.
The price is CA $119
CA $138 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 12 - Apr 13
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
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, (1,253 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Unwind just steps from Santa Cruz Main Beach, where Mediterranean charm meets seaside bliss at this sun-drenched coastal retreat.
The price is CA $168
CA $194 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 12 - Apr 13
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
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, (594 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Bask in coastal serenity just steps from Twin Lakes and Sunny Cove beaches, where ocean breezes meet charming cottage comfort.
The price is CA $260
CA $297 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 12 - Apr 13
Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages
Exterior

Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,470 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Breathtaking white sand beach access with sun-soaked shoreline and rooftop terrace just steps from Santa Cruz Boardwalk.
The price is CA $161
CA $186 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 13 - Apr 14
Marea Sol Hotel
Surfing/boogie boarding

Seaway Inn

Seaway Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (182 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Sun-kissed coastal getaway steps away from the sandy shore, with hiking trails nearby and easy access to Santa Cruz attractions.
The price is CA $179
CA $215 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 12 - Apr 13
Seaway Inn
Garden

Hitching Post Studios Inn

Hitching Post Studios Inn
2.0 star property
Eastside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (356 reviews)
The price is CA $119
CA $137 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 19 - Apr 20
Hitching Post Studios Inn
Front of property

Mission Inn

Mission Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,006 reviews)
The price is CA $153
CA $187 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 12 - Apr 13
Mission Inn
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

Beach hotels with pools in Santa Cruz

Property grounds
Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
4.0 star property
Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1003)
The price is CA $194
CA $280 total
includes taxes & fees
May 11 - May 12
Chaminade Resort & Spa
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Beach hotels with free breakfast in Santa Cruz

Exterior
Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

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, (594)
The price is CA $260
CA $297 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 12 - Apr 13
Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages
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.
View all properties

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 pool, food, very family friendly "
Galiana 3-night trip
Posted 8 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 $137 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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