Find hotels in Santa Cruz, CA from ₩167,280

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and beach activities.
• Vibrant Boardwalk: The iconic amusement park and boardwalk offer fun rides, games, and live entertainment.
• Outdoor Adventures: Explore scenic national and state parks for hiking, biking, and photo opportunities.
• Charming Downtown: Enjoy local shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere in vibrant Downtown Santa Cruz.
• Diverse Accommodations: From charming hotels to luxurious resorts, Santa Cruz has lodging options for every traveler.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from charming hotels to luxurious resorts, catering to every type of traveler. Whether you're traveling with pets, on a business trip, or seeking an adventurous getaway, you'll find hotels equipped with the amenities you need. Explore our guide for Santa Cruz hotels, read reviews, and discover the perfect lodging to enhance your vacation experience in this beautiful coastal city.

• La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley: Located 37km from Santa Cruz, La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley is a charming 3.5-star hotel that blends traditional Mexican décor with modern amenities, making it ideal for business travelers. Guests will appreciate its business center, meeting rooms, and high-speed internet access that cater to their professional needs. The hotel also features an outdoor pool for relaxation, a fitness center to maintain your workout routine, and a complimentary breakfast to start your day off right.
• Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell: Situated 35km from Santa Cruz in the heart of Campbell, this 3.5-star hotel offers a city-themed experience perfect for business travelers. Larkspur Landing features spacious suites equipped with kitchenettes for added convenience during your stay. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a complimentary breakfast, a cozy lobby with a fireplace, and a fitness center. Its proximity to local attractions makes it easy to explore the vibrant city while still providing a retreat to unwind after a busy day.
• Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey: This budget-friendly motel is located 37km from Santa Cruz and boasts a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10. Motel 6 Marina offers a pet-friendly environment, making it an excellent choice for travelers with furry companions. Guests can enjoy basic amenities, including free Wi-Fi and on-site parking. The motel’s straightforward, no-frills accommodations ensure a comfortable stay without breaking the bank, and its location provides easy access to local attractions and the scenic coastline.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly fun. Explore the stunning Santa Cruz Beach, relax in vibrant Downtown Santa Cruz, or enjoy the warm atmosphere of nearby neighborhoods. With friendly locals and plenty of excursions, this coastal gem is ideal for beach vacations and leisurely getaways. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the beach or strolling through charming streets, Santa Cruz promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

• Capitola: Nestled just 6km from Santa Cruz, Capitola is a charming city that offers a delightful beach experience year-round. With a moderate influx of travelers, the peak seasons from April to July invite visitors to explore its beautiful beaches and family-friendly outdoor activities. Highlights include vibrant boardwalks, amusement parks, and stunning coastal views. The local landmarks, such as the picturesque Capitola Beach and the serene bay, provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway.
• Westside Santa Cruz: This vibrant neighborhood surrounds the area of Santa Cruz and is known for its welcoming atmosphere and outdoor adventures. While traveler numbers peak from June to August, Westside Santa Cruz offers a consistent experience throughout the year. Families flock here for its educational venues, amusement parks, and scenic beaches. Key attractions include the iconic boardwalk and nearby theme parks, making it an ideal spot for fun-filled activities and memorable family outings.
• Twin Lakes: Located within the Santa Cruz area, the village of Twin Lakes is a seasonal favorite for beach lovers, particularly between June and August. Visitors are drawn to its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor recreational opportunities. From the stunning Twin Lakes Beach to the nearby amusement park and boardwalk, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy. The local landmarks provide a perfect setting for a beach day, ensuring that families can create lasting memories while soaking up the sun.

Things to do near Santa Cruz

Shopping

For unique gifts and souvenirs, visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s shops or stroll through Pacific Avenue for local boutiques. If you're up for a drive, check out the Capitola Mall for a variety of retailers and the nearby Westfield Valley Fair for even more shopping options.

Recreation

Enjoy rejuvenating treatments at the Santa Cruz Wellness Center, where holistic therapies blend with tranquil surroundings. For outdoor relaxation, visit Natural Bridges State Beach, offering scenic views and the soothing sound of waves, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature.

Adventure

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca offers an exhilarating experience for motorsport enthusiasts, located 50km from Santa Cruz. Feel the adrenaline as you watch thrilling races on this renowned track, surrounded by stunning landscapes and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of adventure.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Catalyst on Pacific Avenue for live music and a lively atmosphere. For a relaxed vibe, visit the Blue Lagoon on Ocean Street, where you can enjoy cocktails and local DJs spinning tunes late into the night.

Find the best attractions in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is perfect for outdoor and family beach vacations, featuring popular attractions like beaches, national/state parks, and the iconic jetty pier. Visitors can enjoy a blend of beach and cultural experiences, with must-see spots such as the Santa Cruz Wharf. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Santa Cruz offers a variety of activities to make your trip memorable.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this classic seaside amusement park. With thrilling rides, games, and delicious boardwalk treats, it’s a nostalgic destination for families and adventure seekers alike, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Santa Cruz coastline.
• Natural Bridges State Park: Explore the beauty of this serene beach park, known for its natural rock formations and tidal pools. Enjoy a relaxing day on the sandy shores, take a leisurely stroll along scenic trails, and witness the migrating monarch butterflies during the season.
• Mystery Spot: Discover the quirks of this intriguing gravitational anomaly. The guided tour offers a blend of fun and culture, as visitors learn about the mysterious phenomena through interactive exhibits and captivating storytelling.

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 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

Traveling to Santa Cruz, California, is convenient with several nearby airports. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is located 77km away, with luxurious hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco and The Ritz-Carlton, both 19km from the airport, offering transfer services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is closer at 45km, with excellent options like the Shashi Hotel and Santa Clara Marriott, both easily accessible. OAKland International Airport (OAK) is 84km away, featuring hotels such as the Claremont Resort & Club, providing convenient access. Each airport offers various transportation services to ensure a smooth journey to Santa Cruz.