Santa Cruz hotels from RM408

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful beaches, perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and relaxation.
• Iconic Boardwalk: The famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers amusement rides and games, ideal for family fun.
• Vibrant Downtown: Explore local shops and eateries in Downtown Santa Cruz, rich in culture and atmosphere.
• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy hiking and scenic views in nearby national and state parks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Welcoming Community: Experience the friendly locals and warm atmosphere that make Santa Cruz a memorable destination.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Discover a range of hotel accommodations in Santa Cruz, California, perfect for every type of traveller. From pet-friendly options to resorts offering adventure-filled experiences, you’ll find lodging that suits your needs. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, Santa Cruz hotels provide excellent services and facilities. Explore reviews and recommendations to ensure a delightful stay in this beautiful coastal city.

• La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley: La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley is a 3.5-star hotel that caters to business travellers seeking a comfortable stay. Located 37km from Santa Cruz, this property features modern amenities, including a well-equipped business centre and high-speed internet access. Guests appreciate the spacious rooms designed for productivity and relaxation, alongside a complimentary breakfast to start the day right. With a focus on providing a tranquil environment, this hotel is well-suited for those on work-related visits.
• Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell: Situated 35km from Santa Cruz, Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell is a 3.5-star hotel that offers a unique city-themed experience. Ideal for business travellers and families alike, this pet-friendly property allows pets with specific restrictions. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen in every suite, complimentary breakfast, and a convenient location in the city centre. This hotel is perfect for those looking for a home-like atmosphere while exploring the area.
• Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey: Budget-conscious travellers will find Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey a suitable option, located 37km from Santa Cruz. With a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, this pet-friendly motel welcomes dogs and cats, making it a great choice for animal lovers. Guests can expect basic yet comfortable accommodations, with amenities such as free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour front desk. Ideal for those seeking a simple and affordable stay, this motel provides easy access to the nearby attractions of Monterey Bay.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and stunning coastal views. Explore the iconic Santa Cruz Beach, where sun-soaked days await, or wander through the vibrant Downtown Santa Cruz, brimming with local shops and eateries. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals create a memorable experience, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation alike. Nearby regions further enrich your holiday with excursions that highlight the beauty of California's coastline.

• Capitola: Situated a mere 6km from Santa Cruz, Capitola is a charming city that beckons visitors with its picturesque seaside charm. Known for its outdoor activities, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly atmosphere, Capitola sees a peak in visitor numbers from April to July. The vibrant boardwalk and amusement park offer fun for all ages, while the scenic beaches and tranquil bay provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation. Don't miss the local landmarks, including the stunning Capitola Beach and the lively theme park, which cater to both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind.
• Westside Santa Cruz: Nestled around the Santa Cruz area, Westside Santa Cruz is a lively neighbourhood known for its diverse offerings. With visitor numbers peaking from June to August, this area thrives on its outdoor recreational opportunities and family-friendly venues. Explore the renowned amusement park and boardwalk, or take advantage of the educational experiences available nearby. The area's stunning beaches and the scenic bay are perfect for sunbathing or enjoying water sports, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure seekers.
• Scotts Valley: Located 8km from Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley is an adventurous city that attracts visitors year-round. With peaks in travel during April and June to July, it offers outdoor enthusiasts and families a plethora of activities. Spend your days at the exciting amusement park or explore the recreational areas that abound. With local attractions such as the nearby national state park and beautiful beaches, Scotts Valley is perfect for those seeking both adventure and tranquility amidst nature's splendour.

Things to do near Santa Cruz

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, visit the Pacific Avenue shops for unique gifts and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, head to the Capitola Mall, featuring a variety of retailers and charming boutiques, or explore the nearby Westfield Valley Fair for more extensive shopping options.

Recreation

In Santa Cruz, the Well Within Spa offers a tranquil escape with its holistic treatments and serene atmosphere. Nearby, the Esalen Institute provides workshops that blend wellness and nature, allowing for personal growth and relaxation amidst stunning coastal views.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, located 50km from Santa Cruz. Feel the adrenaline as you watch high-speed races and soak in the electric atmosphere, making it an exciting outing for motorsport enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Nightlife

In Santa Cruz, the Catalyst offers vibrant live music performances, while the Blue Lagoon is known for its lively dance scene. For a more relaxed vibe, head to the Crow's Nest, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views alongside cocktails.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz provides numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Many attractions, such as the University of California, Santa Cruz, and the Santa Cruz Wharf, are free to enter. To save on accommodation, visit between November and January, when prices drop, and consider booking on a Monday for the best rates. Utilise public transportation, such as buses, to navigate the area affordably. Additionally, using Expedia's search tools can help you find the best deals by filtering options to fit your budget and combining hotel stays with flights and activities for further 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations in Santa Cruz with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is an ideal destination for outdoor family beach vacations, boasting an array of attractions such as its beautiful beaches, national and state parks, and the scenic jetty pier. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy a variety of outdoor experiences. A visit to the Santa Cruz Wharf is also recommended for those looking to enhance their trip with additional activities and sights.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience the thrill of rides and attractions at this historic amusement park, nestled along the stunning coastline. With its vibrant atmosphere, the Boardwalk offers a delightful mix of adventure and family fun, complemented by beautiful beach views and a lively boardwalk scene.
• Mystery Spot: Delve into the intriguing world of optical illusions at this famous exhibit. Surrounded by towering trees, the Mystery Spot challenges your perception with its gravitational anomalies and fascinating history, making for a unique cultural experience in the heart of Santa Cruz.
• Natural Bridges State Park: Enjoy the serene beauty of this coastal beach, renowned for its natural rock formations and tide pools. The park is an excellent spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and observing diverse wildlife, all set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.

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 slightly low 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	Average	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	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Cruz

Flying into Santa Cruz, California, is convenient with three major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 77km away, with luxurious options like the Fairmont San Francisco and The Ritz-Carlton, both 19km from SFO, offering shuttle services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 45km away, with 5-star accommodations such as Shashi Hotel Mountain View and 4.5-star Santa Clara Marriott, both close to the airport. Lastly, Oakland International Airport (OAK) is 84km distant, featuring options like the Claremont Resort & Club, located 16km from OAK. All airports have accessible transportation services to these hotels.