A colorful coastal town with a sandy beach and a calm sea.

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Our top choices for Santa Cruz hotels

1. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Antionette
NT$4,007
NT$4,629 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 9 - Sep 10
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

2. Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Joe
NT$4,196
NT$4,840 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 28 - Sep 29
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

3. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
jessika
NT$4,543
NT$5,230 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 14 - Sep 15
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

4. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Steve
NT$4,354
NT$5,017 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 7 - Oct 8
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

5. Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
Santa Cruz
United States
Erica
NT$5,780
NT$8,051 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Chaminade Resort & Spa

6. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Natalya
NT$4,227
NT$4,875 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA

7. Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Henry
NT$9,433
NT$10,716 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 14 - Sep 15
Dream Inn Santa Cruz

8. Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Brooke
NT$5,079
NT$5,831 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

9. Carousel Beach Inn

Carousel Beach Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Crystal
NT$2,616
NT$3,084 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Carousel Beach Inn

10. Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Bertha
NT$2,987
NT$3,455 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 5 - Oct 6
Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

11. Hampton Inn Santa Cruz

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Arturo
NT$3,713
NT$4,299 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Hampton Inn Santa Cruz

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

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites
Santa Cruz
United States
Nathan
NT$4,800
NT$5,509 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 21 - Sep 22
Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites

13. Mission Inn

Mission Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Terry
NT$3,488
NT$4,267 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 10 - Sep 11
Mission Inn

14. La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Elizabeth
NT$8,495
NT$11,297 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 9 - Sep 10
La Bahia Hotel and Spa

15. Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
Santa Cruz
United States
Ma Luz
NT$3,652
NT$4,193 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

16. Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola
Santa Cruz
United States
Anna Christine
NT$4,532
NT$5,208 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 28 - Sep 29
Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

17. Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Katharine
NT$3,459
NT$4,014 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 23 - Sep 24
Marea Sol Hotel

18. Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Monika
NT$3,855
NT$4,457 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA

19. Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Joyce
NT$2,811
NT$3,640 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Ocean Pacific Lodge

20. Beach Street Inn and Suites

Beach Street Inn and Suites
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Julie
NT$4,240
NT$4,890 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Beach Street Inn and Suites
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Where to stay in Santa Cruz

Find the best Santa Cruz areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.Learn more about Santa Cruz
Learn more about Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz buzzes with artistic energy along the pedestrian-friendly Pacific Avenue. Street musicians perform beneath towering redwoods while colorful murals decorate brick walls. Visitors can browse independent bookshops and surf boutiques or explore the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History. The neighborhood offers easy access to the Beach Boardwalk just blocks away. Victorian architecture creates a charming backdrop for the lively café scene. The bohemian atmosphere welcomes travelers looking for authentic California coastal culture without pretension.

Seabright

Seabright offers a charming coastal retreat with golden sands and gentle waves. This laid-back Santa Cruz neighborhood blends residential charm with beachside beauty. Locals stroll along the shore while visitors explore the natural history museum and harbor. Discover both the energetic Seabright Beach and calmer Harbor Beach within walking distance. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk sits nearby for those seeking more excitement. Beach cottages in weathered wood and pastel colors create a genuine coastal atmosphere throughout this walkable community.

Westside Santa Cruz

The artsy Westside neighborhood brings Santa Cruz's laid-back coastal vibe to life with a creative twist. Beautiful beaches meet bohemian charm along streets lined with craft breweries, surf shops, and independent bookstores. The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum overlooks legendary breaks while Lighthouse Point offers dramatic coastal views. Colorful Victorian cottages and beach bungalows create an eclectic streetscape with ocean glimpses. Natural Bridges State Beach features stunning tide pools and monarch butterfly groves. Locals frequent the same cafes as visitors, preserving the authentic surf culture and artistic community feel.

Eastside Santa Cruz

Explore Eastside Santa Cruz where tree-lined streets weave through a peaceful residential community near the university. Beach lovers can easily access Twin Lakes State Beach and Seabright Beach for sunny days by the water. The neighborhood offers a genuine glimpse into local Santa Cruz living away from tourist crowds. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate nearby DeLaveaga Park and Arana Gulch with their scenic hiking trails through coastal scrubland. UC Santa Cruz borders provide access to majestic redwood groves and striking architecture. The hilly terrain rewards walkers with occasional glimpses of beautiful Monterey Bay.

Pleasure Point

World-renowned surf spot with a strong surf culture, Pleasure Point offers picturesque ocean views along East Cliff Drive and a walkable path with separate bike lanes. Enjoy amenities at Pleasure Point Park and nearby 41st Ave commercial district.

Stay near popular Santa Cruz attractions

A pier with colorful cable cars, a beach, and a sign that reads "WORLD FAMOUS."
Photo by Adri VDM Photography

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

8.8/10 (6,089 reviews)
Experience America's classic seaside fun at this historic amusement park, home to two National Historic Landmarks. Ride the 1924 Giant Dipper wooden coaster or enjoy carnival games before stepping onto the sandy beach.
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A pier extending into the ocean with a roller coaster in the background.

Santa Cruz Wharf

9.0/10 (2,069 reviews)
The longest timber pile pier on the US coast, Santa Cruz Wharf extends half a mile into Monterey Bay. Dine at seafood restaurants while watching sea lions and otters play in the protected marine sanctuary below.
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A yellow sign with red and black text reading "ENTRANCE To MYSTERY SPOT Santa Cruz, Calif. U.S.A."
Photo by Arup Paul

Mystery Spot

8.4/10 (1,594 reviews)
The Mystery Spot bends perception with gravity-defying illusions in a redwood forest setting. Take the 45-minute guided tour to experience balls rolling uphill and people changing height before your eyes.
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A natural rock arch formation on a beach with calm waters reflecting the structure.

Natural Bridges State Park

9.0/10 (842 reviews)
This coastal haven features a striking natural arch and tide pools teeming with marine life. From October to January, witness thousands of monarch butterflies clustering in the eucalyptus grove.
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A historic half-timbered building with a stone facade, surrounded by trees and a red brick sidewalk.

Ocean Street

8.6/10 (1,332 reviews)
Ocean Street serves as Santa Cruz's main gateway, lined with hotels and eateries for travelers entering from Highway 17. Stay here for convenient access to the Beach Boardwalk and downtown attractions just minutes away.
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A lighthouse at sunset, rocky shoreline, calm water, and a clear sky.
Photo by Alex Sam

Santa Cruz Harbor

9.0/10 (587 reviews)
This bustling marina offers immediate access to Monterey Bay with over 1,000 boat slips. Enjoy waterfront dining, book a sailing charter, or catch the Wednesday Night Sailboat Races from April through October.
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University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum

8.4/10 (103 reviews)
This living laboratory showcases rare plants from five Mediterranean climate zones worldwide. Wander through Australian, South African, and California native gardens while spotting hummingbirds among vibrant blooms.
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Pasatiempo Golf Course

7.4/10 (99 reviews)
Play a round of golf in Santa Cruz at Pasatiempo Golf Course, and enjoy other activities such as surfing. Attend a sporting event in this walkable area, or seek out the biking trails.
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Santa Cruz and related destinations

Surfers catch perfect waves at Steamer Lane while sea lions bark along the wooden boardwalk of the historic Beach Boardwalk. Redwoods tower over hiking trails in nearby state parks, offering cool shade before you head back for sunset bonfires.

See all hotels in Santa Cruz
A colorful coastal town with a sandy beach and a calm sea.

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

10/10 Excellent
"Much better experience than the last few times we stayed there. Property was much improved. Last time we stayed there the Jets in the hot tub were horrible. This time they were strong and useful. We have been staying at this property for at least five or six years two or three times a year and this was one of the best times."
JAMES 2-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

10/10 Excellent
"The room was extremely clean, staff was quick and friendly, only thing i will say the ac wasn’t working to well but enough to keep the room at a decent temperature but everything else was great and the view from the pool was great as well."
Max 2-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

8/10 Good
"Everything was ok"
Irene 1-night trip
Posted 4 hours ago
Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North
Seaside Inn & Suites

Seaside Inn & Suites

8/10 Good
"Definitely needs to be power washed outside, inside was clean other than floors. Decent for price, location."
Kelly 1-night trip
Posted 4 hours ago
Seaside Inn & Suites
Mission Inn

Mission Inn

8/10 Good
"Clean, friendly staff, good location"
Hoa 2-night trip
Posted 4 hours ago
Mission Inn
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

8/10 Good
"The bed was very comfortable. That’s what matters the most for me. Got a good nights rest."
Vivian 1-night trip
Posted 6 hours ago
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Clean room and super nice staff"
Olga 1-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Marea Sol Hotel
Casablanca On The Beach

Casablanca On The Beach

8/10 Good
"Only complaint I have is when we got there there was no parking. Talked to the attendant and was told to wait an hour for guest to leave. Parking was the only issue"
Erika 1-night trip
Posted 9 hours ago
Casablanca On The Beach
La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

10/10 Excellent
"We stayed at La Bahia for 3 nights and had a great experience! The rooms were comfortable, clean, and cozy, and the location is amazing with direct access to the beach. The staff was wonderful, friendly, and very helpful. The only disappointment was the food from in-room dining and at Low Tide resturant, we really didn’t enjoy it, although the staff was very nice. High Tide restaurant, on the other hand, was excellent, with delicious food and great service and great view. Overall, a wonderful stay and we would definitely come back!"
Liat 3-night trip
Posted 9 hours ago
La Bahia Hotel and Spa

More cheap stays in Santa Cruz

Seaside Inn & Suites

Seaside Inn & Suites

525 Ocean St Santa Cruz CA
NT$1,633
NT$2,431 total
Oct 1 - Oct 2
includes taxes & fees
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,119 reviews)
Seaside Inn & Suites
Surf City Inn and Suites

Surf City Inn and Suites

619 Riverside Ave Santa Cruz CA
NT$2,172
NT$2,701 total
Sep 14 - Sep 15
includes taxes & fees
Surf City Inn and Suites
Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

325 Pacific Ave Santa Cruz CA
NT$1,995
NT$2,720 total
Sep 10 - Sep 11
includes taxes & fees
7.4/10 Good! (1,015 reviews)
Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz
Carousel Beach Inn

Carousel Beach Inn

110 Riverside Ave Santa Cruz CA
NT$2,616
NT$3,084 total
Sep 30 - Oct 1
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (77 reviews)
Carousel Beach Inn
Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge

301 Pacific Avenue Santa Cruz CA
NT$2,811
NT$3,640 total
Sep 9 - Sep 10
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,539 reviews)
Ocean Pacific Lodge
Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel

301 Beach St Santa Cruz CA
NT$3,459
NT$4,014 total
Sep 23 - Sep 24
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (1,621 reviews)
Marea Sol Hotel

Hotels in Santa Cruz with star-rating

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

  • Beautiful Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts stunning beaches perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and beach games.
  • Vibrant Boardwalk: Enjoy thrilling rides, games, and delicious food at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
  • Scenic State Parks: Explore breathtaking trails and natural beauty in nearby state parks like Henry Cowell Redwoods.
  • Coastal Boat Tours: Experience the coastline from the water with exciting boat tours showcasing marine life.
  • Welcoming Atmosphere: Enjoy the friendly locals and charming downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Discover a variety of accommodations in Santa Cruz, California, designed to meet every traveler's needs. Whether you’re seeking a pet-friendly hotel, a resort for a relaxing getaway, or options tailored for business travel and adventure vacations, you'll find plenty of choices. With numerous hotels offering excellent services and amenities, your stay in Santa Cruz will be both comfortable and memorable.

  • La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley: Nestled 37km from Santa Cruz, La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley is a 3.5-star hotel that caters to business travelers seeking a blend of convenience and comfort. This property boasts contemporary rooms equipped with modern amenities, including a business center, meeting rooms, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring you stay connected throughout your trip. The on-site restaurant offers a diverse menu, making it easy to enjoy a meal without venturing far.
  • Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell: Located 35km from Santa Cruz, Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell is a 3.5-star hotel ideal for business and leisure travelers alike. This property emphasizes comfort with spacious suites featuring kitchenettes and workspaces. The hotel is also pet-friendly, accommodating furry companions with specific policies in place. Guests can enjoy amenities like complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, and a cozy lobby to unwind after a busy day.
  • Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey: Situated 37km from Santa Cruz, Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey is a budget-friendly option with a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10. This motel welcomes pets at no additional charge, making it a convenient choice for travelers with furry friends. With essential amenities and a straightforward approach to comfort, guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, comfortable rooms, and easy access to nearby attractions, ensuring a pleasant stay without breaking the bank.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, is a vibrant coastal city perfect for outdoor and family-friendly vacations. Explore the stunning Santa Cruz Beach, unwind in Downtown Santa Cruz, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere filled with friendly locals. From relaxing beach days to exciting excursions, this charming destination offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal getaway for travelers seeking both fun and tranquility.

  • Capitola: Located a mere 6km from Santa Cruz, Capitola is a charming city that offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences. Known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant boardwalk, it's a seasonal hotspot, especially during the peak months of April and June to July. Visitors are drawn to its stunning bay views and the local amusement park, making it a perfect destination for families. With its colorful seaside cottages and quaint shops, Capitola provides a relaxing atmosphere for those looking to unwind by the ocean while enjoying fun recreational activities.
  • Westside Santa Cruz: Nestled around the Santa Cruz area, Westside Santa Cruz is a lively neighborhood that attracts visitors year-round. With peak seasons from June to August, this area is renowned for its outdoor adventures and family-oriented attractions. The famous boardwalk and nearby theme park offer thrilling experiences for all ages, while the beautiful beaches serve as perfect spots to soak up the sun. Westside Santa Cruz is also known for its educational opportunities and scenic views, making it an ideal place for families and those seeking a mix of relaxation and fun.
  • Twin Lakes: Twin Lakes is a quaint village situated conveniently within Santa Cruz, known for its seasonal charm. The village sees its highest influx of travelers from June to August, drawn to its inviting beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy various activities at the local amusement park and boardwalk, as well as access to beautiful recreational areas. Twin Lakes' close proximity to family beaches and a popular theme park makes it an attractive destination for families and beach lovers alike, ensuring a memorable vacation experience.

Things to do near Santa Cruz

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, visit the Pacific Avenue shops for unique boutiques and local art. If you're up for a drive, head to the Capitola Mall, about 16km away, where you’ll find a variety of stores and dining options in a charming seaside setting.

Recreation

The Santa Cruz Wellness Center offers a tranquil atmosphere with soothing yoga classes, rejuvenating massage therapies, and holistic treatments that promote relaxation and mindfulness. Nearby, the picturesque Natural Bridges State Beach provides opportunities for beach walks, picnics, and connecting with nature in a serene coastal setting.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, located 50km from Santa Cruz. Feel the adrenaline rush as powerful cars speed around the iconic track, surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere that captures the excitement of motorsports.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Santa Cruz is vibrant, with options like the Blue Lagoon, known for live music, and the cozy atmosphere of The Catalyst, where you can catch a local band. For a laid-back vibe, explore the pubs along Pacific Avenue, offering craft beers and friendly crowds.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a budget-friendly destination with free attractions like the University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz Wharf, and Pacific Avenue. For savings on transportation, consider using public buses instead of taxis or rental cars. The best time to visit is from November to January, with lower accommodation rates, especially on Mondays. Avoid Saturdays for the best deals. Use Expedia to find eco-friendly hotel options, and consider booking a package that combines flights, hotels, and activities for additional 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you have in mind. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you a selection of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Santa Cruz with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.

Find the best attractions in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a beach vacation. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, scenic state parks, and the vibrant Santa Cruz Wharf. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, Santa Cruz offers a variety of attractions that cater to all interests, making it a perfect getaway for travelers looking to enjoy nature and seaside activities.

  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience the thrill of classic amusement rides and games at this iconic seaside amusement park. With its vibrant atmosphere, the Boardwalk offers a perfect blend of family fun and adventure, all set against the backdrop of beautiful Santa Cruz beaches.
  • Mystery Spot: Step into a world of perplexity at the Mystery Spot, a gravitational anomaly that challenges your perception. This unique exhibit invites you to explore its intriguing optical illusions while learning about its cultural significance, making for a fascinating experience.
  • Naturals Bridges State Park: Enjoy stunning coastal views at Natural Bridges State Park, where you can explore tide pools, sandy beaches, and natural rock formations. The park is a serene spot to relax, stroll along the shore, and appreciate California's coastal ecosystem.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Cruz falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Cruz falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.7°F (12.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May56.7°F (13.7°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June60.1°F (15.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August63.3°F (17.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September63.9°F (17.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October61.5°F (16.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Cruz

Flying into Santa Cruz is convenient, with three major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is 77km away, with luxury hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco and The Ritz-Carlton, both offering transfer services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 45km from Santa Cruz, featuring excellent options like the 5-star Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto and the 4.5-star Santa Clara Marriott, both easily accessible to the airport. Lastly, OAKland International Airport (OAK) is 84km distant, with notable hotels such as the Claremont Resort & Club and 1 Hotel San Francisco, also providing convenient transport options to the airport.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place for a stay in Santa Cruz?
Based on our traveler data, Chaminade Resort & Spa is one of the top choices for your stay. This resort offers 2 outdoor pools and a full-service spa. Other good options for your trip include La Bahia Hotel and Spa and Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Santa Cruz.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Santa Cruz, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most hotel reservations are fully refundable if you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you might be able to cancel it and receive a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Santa Cruz.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Santa Cruz?
For more details about changing or cancelling your trip to Santa Cruz, head over to our customer service page.
What's the best accommodation for a budget-friendly stay in Santa Cruz?
Based on our traveler reviews, Ocean Pacific Lodge is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Other good choices for your budget-friendly stay include Torch Lite Inn and Beachview Inn. View all budget hotels in Santa Cruz.
Where is the best hotel for a stay in Westside Santa Cruz?
With 67 hotels and other accommodations to choose from in this neighborhood, you should find the perfect place for your trip. Based on Expedia customer reviews, West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn is the highest ranked property in Westside Santa Cruz. This 3.5-star B&B offers free breakfast and free WiFi. It is located a short 2-minute walk from Main Beach. Other favorite options in the area include Babbling Brook Inn and Pacific Blue Inn.
What's the best accommodation in Downtown Santa Cruz?
Pacific Blue Inn is a favorite with our customers staying in Downtown Santa Cruz. This 3-star B&B offers free breakfast and free WiFi. It is located a short 9-minute walk from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
What's the best hotel for a family vacation to Santa Cruz?
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley is a hotel with an outdoor pool and a restaurant, and it's a top choice on Expedia for families. Other good options for your stay with the kids include Ocean Pacific Lodge and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz. Attractions like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center are also fun for kids of all ages. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Santa Cruz.
What's the best LGBTQ-friendly hotel in Santa Cruz?
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley is a top LGBTQ-friendly hotel that features free WiFi and a 24-hour fitness center. Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection and Mission Inn are other good choices for your vacation. See all available hotels listed as LGBTQ-friendly in Santa Cruz.
What's the best pet-friendly accommodation in Santa Cruz?
La Bahia Hotel and Spa is a top hotel for people traveling with their pets, and offers 3 restaurants and a full-service spa for its human guests. Other good options for you and your pet's trip include Ocean Pacific Lodge and Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Santa Cruz.
Where is the best hotel to stay with easy access to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk?
Adjacent to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Casablanca On The Beach is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this 3.5-star hotel offers a restaurant and free parking. Other good choices close by include Dream Inn Santa Cruz and Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection.
What about the best place to stay near Mystery Spot?
One of the top choices for your stay is Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley, located 1.7 mi (2.8 km) from Mystery Spot, and this 3.5-star hotel offers a restaurant and an outdoor pool. Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection and Chaminade Resort & Spa are a couple of other good options within a few miles.
What's the best hotel to stay near the beach in Santa Cruz?
Marea Sol Hotel is a top beach hotel offering free WiFi and a rooftop terrace, located within a short 3-minute walk of Santa Cruz Main Beach. Other good options to stay near the beach include Casablanca On The Beach and Dream Inn Santa Cruz. See more stays near the beach in Santa Cruz.
What's the best luxury place to stay in Santa Cruz?
La Bahia Hotel and Spa is a luxury hotel with 3 restaurants and 3 bars, and it's a popular choice for Expedia travelers looking for an elegant place to stay. Find more luxury hotels in Santa Cruz.
Where is the best part of Santa Cruz for tourists?
Westside Santa Cruz is a popular part of the city for sightseeing with 13 places to visit and top sights like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Main Beach, and Natural Bridges State Park. Eastside Santa Cruz is another area known for sightseeing where you can visit Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz Harbor, and DeLaveaga Golf Course.
What is the resort fee in Santa Cruz?
There are about 5 properties that charge a resort fee out of the 480 hotels and other properties in Santa Cruz. The resort fee per accommodation averages USD 19.06 per night.
What are some hotels with pools in Santa Cruz?
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection is a top hotel with a pool, free WiFi, and a snack bar. Other choices that feature an onsite pool include Dream Inn Santa Cruz and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA. View all hotels with pools in Santa Cruz.
What is the best spa hotel in Santa Cruz?
La Bahia Hotel and Spa is a top luxury spa hotel featuring 3 restaurants, 3 bars, a rooftop terrace, and a fitness center. Spend an afternoon at the spa where you'll find facials, body scrubs, and detox wraps. Other popular spa hotels in Santa Cruz include Surf City Inn and Suites and Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz. See all spa hotels in Santa Cruz.
What is the best accommodation for staying close to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)?
DoubleTree by Hilton San Jose is a popular 3.5-star hotel featuring 3 restaurants and 2 bars. It's located a short 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport. Other good options near the airport are La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Jose Airport and Wyndham Garden San Jose Airport.
What is staying in Santa Cruz like?
Travelers to Santa Cruz give high marks for the beaches, fun sporting events, and entertainment choices. Tourists to the city can also enjoy its walkable location. Top sights in the city include Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay. In Santa Cruz, there are 480 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about Santa Cruz.
What should I see while I'm in Santa Cruz?
Cultural venues include Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, Lighthouse Point Park, and Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. Attractions like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Boardwalk Bowl, and Seymour Marine Discovery Center at Long Marine Laboratory are fun for kids of all ages. Landmarks like Mission Santa Cruz, Mystery Spot, and Town Clock might be worth a visit. Check out what more to see and do in Expedia's Santa Cruz guide.
What's the seasonal weather like in Santa Cruz?
The hottest months are usually September and August with an average temp of 63°F, while the coldest months are February and March with an average of 52°F. Average annual precipitation for Santa Cruz is 27 inches.

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