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

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Check availability on Santa Cruz Romantic Hotels

Tonight
Aug 14 - Aug 15
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Aug 15 - Aug 16
This weekend
Aug 14 - Aug 16
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Aug 21 - Aug 23

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz attractions for couples

Santa Cruz, California, is a vibrant coastal gem brimming with activities that cater to families and adventure-seekers alike. Start your exploration at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where the thrill of classic amusement rides, including the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster, meets the sandy shores of the Pacific Ocean. A short walk away, the mesmerizing Natural Bridges State Beach offers tide pools to explore and the chance to spot migrating monarch butterflies in the fall. For a taste of the local wildlife, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center provides engaging exhibits and a chance to see sea otters in their natural habitat, perfect for curious kids and adults alike. If you're seeking adventure, the scenic trails of Wilder Ranch State Park invite you to hike or bike along stunning coastal cliffs, revealing breathtaking ocean views at every turn. Finally, don't miss the lush beauty of the UCSC Arboretum, home to diverse plant species from around the world, where families can enjoy a peaceful stroll amidst vibrant flora. For accommodations, the bustling downtown area offers a range of hotels featuring family-friendly amenities, making it easy to unwind after a day of adventure while enjoying local dining and shopping options just steps away. With attentive service and convenient access to Santa Cruz's top attractions, your stay will feel both special and effortless.

Find the best romantic hotels in Santa Cruz

For couples seeking a romantic getaway in Santa Cruz, these charming hotels offer the perfect blend of intimacy and stunning coastal views. Each hotel provides a unique atmosphere to create lasting memories together.Dream Inn Santa Cruz

  • Why it's great for a couples retreat: Dream Inn Santa Cruz is an idyllic choice for romantic travelers looking to bask in a beachside escape, an impressive review rating of 9.2. With breathtaking ocean views and a beachfront location, couples can enjoy the serene ambiance right from their balcony. The hotel features a heated outdoor pool, a spa for indulgent treatments, and on-site dining with stunning ocean vistas, perfect for a romantic dinner under the stars.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its romantic setting, the hotel offers a range of amenities including complimentary room service, valet parking, and a cozy fireplace in select rooms. Guests can unwind with poolside service, take advantage of the terrace and patio spaces for intimate gatherings, and explore the nearby boardwalk for leisurely strolls along the beach. The full-service spa adds a touch of luxury with daily treatments available, ensuring a rejuvenating experience for couples.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.15 miles, Cowell's Beach - 0.02 miles, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.07 miles

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

  • Why it's great for a couples retreat: Hyatt Place Santa Cruz provides a delightful escape for couples with its comfortable and modern accommodations, earning a strong review rating of 9.0. Nestled near the beach, this hotel features a lovely terrace and outdoor pool, perfect for relaxing together in the sun. Guests can start their day with a complimentary breakfast before exploring the nearby attractions or enjoying a peaceful day at the beach.
  • Other amenities: Beyond its inviting atmosphere, the hotel offers additional amenities such as an accessible hot tub, fitness facilities for couples who enjoy working out together, and secured parking. The location provides easy access to romantic beach walks and local dining options. Guests can also enjoy a shared outdoor pool area and sun loungers, enhancing the overall relaxation experience during their stay.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.62 miles, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.83 miles, Ocean Street - 0.11 miles

Marea Sol Hotel

  • Why it's great for a couples retreat: Marea Sol Hotel is a quaint and affordable option for romantic travelers with a solid review rating of 9.0. This hotel boasts a prime location near the beach, allowing couples to enjoy direct access to the beautiful shoreline. With cozy rooms featuring private balconies and ocean views, it provides a serene backdrop for a romantic getaway.
  • Other amenities: The hotel also features an outdoor pool where couples can relax together, a rooftop terrace for enjoying sunsets, and complimentary toiletries. Guests can explore the nearby white sand beach for long walks or simply unwind at the beach. With its inviting atmosphere and nearby nature, Marea Sol Hotel offers a lovely setting for couples to connect.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.2 miles, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.17 miles, Main Beach - 0.12 miles

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

  • Why it's great for a couples retreat: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz is a charming, budget-friendly option for couples seeking a romantic retreat, with a solid review rating of 9.0. The hotel features comfortable accommodations and is conveniently located near the beach, making it easy for couples to create special moments together by the water. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool and sun loungers, perfect for soaking up the sun and relaxing together.
  • Other amenities: This hotel also includes a lovely terrace and balcony options, providing guests with private spaces to unwind. Additional amenities include a free daily breakfast, a fitness center, and convenient self-parking. Couples can explore the nearby beach and boardwalk, making it an ideal spot for romantic strolls and shared adventures.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.12 miles, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.13 miles, Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.21 miles

Casablanca On The Beach

  • Why it's great for a couples retreat: Casablanca On The Beach exudes a romantic charm, making it a wonderful choice for couples with a review rating of 8.6. Situated just steps from the beach, this hotel offers stunning ocean views and cozy furnished balconies or patios, perfect for enjoying sunset moments together. The intimate atmosphere is complemented by nearby water activities such as kayaking and surfing, providing adventurous couples with plenty of options.
  • Other amenities: Guests can take advantage of the hotel's outdoor spaces, including a terrace and patio, for leisurely relaxation. Additional offerings include daily housekeeping, free toiletries, and easy access to local dining and entertainment. The hotel’s concierge service helps couples plan their activities, ensuring a memorable experience in Santa Cruz.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.22 miles, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.31 miles, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.02 miles

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"The hotel was easy to find and close to both the Boardwalk and downtown Santa Cruz. Also we really liked that there is a small cafe right across the street."
Sally 2-night trip
Posted 13 hours ago
Ocean Pacific Lodge
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

10/10 Excellent
"Awesome hotel for families with young kids. Great location with playground nearby for morning/evening park time. Walking distance to downtown for retail shopping and local eateries. Eight minute drive to the boardwalk, close enough but still far enough from the crowds/congested traffic. Hotel staff and amenities were fantastic. Hot tub and pool was our highlight! Very comfortable temps for the entire family. Poolside service was great. Food was reasonably priced and delicious. Hotel staff was very accommodating to requests. Hotel provided free bottled water the entire duration of our stay and even offer s’mores kit for the kids to enjoy in the evening. Overall, one of the best hotel stays I’ve ever experience. Will definitely stay here again and highly recommend to all looking for a hotel with amazing hospitality and care."
Andrei 4-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

8/10 Good
"Not enough parking spots for all guests. You leave to go to dinner or see a show or something and you come back and have to park in metered spots on the street."
Kenneth 1-night trip
Posted 18 hours ago
Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

8/10 Good
"The location was very conveniently located, however the property was a bit dirty feeling. The hallways smelled musty/ mildewed and were a bit dark. My room smelled clean, but the carpet was covered with what looked like dog hair. The soap and shampoo smelled great and were convenient in the kind of bottles that are refillable, which I appreciate. Linens and pillows were very good. Another area that was a bit disappointing was the pool. There was only one towel which my friend and I had to share. There was garbage (which says more about the other guests than the hotel tbh) Overall, I’d probably stay again, however it was not as nice as I had expected given the price."
Heidi 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Frequently asked questions

Searching for romantic hotels in Santa Cruz?
Are you in need of a romantic escape? Couples choose Santa Cruz for its beautiful beaches, sporting events, and surfing. If you want to spend some time strolling through captivating scenery with your love, you might make a visit to University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum, Pleasure Point Park, or Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park. Whether you want to soak in a hot tub or have a romantic dinner by candlelight, you'll be sure to find accommodation in Santa Cruz to make for a relaxing weekend away.
When is the best time of year for a romantic getaway to Santa Cruz?
If you're looking forward to lots of outings with your partner, check out these details about year-round temperatures 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.
What is there to do in Santa Cruz?
There's nothing better than wandering around a new destination with your sweetheart, so consider checking out all that Santa Cruz has to offer. If you and your partner are planning an adventurous vacation, you'll love Santa Cruz for its sporting events, surfing, and camping. If you want to spend a day exploring, you might consider a stop at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Monterey Bay, or Ocean Street.
What's the best way to get to Santa Cruz and around town during my romantic getaway?
These transportation options in Santa Cruz might help your romantic trip get off to a smooth start: Make your way to Santa Cruz with a flight to Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal), which is the closest major airport located 13.4 mi (21.6 km) from the city center. If you'd like to explore around the area, consider renting a car to take in more sights.

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