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.
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