Search Hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz

Top reasons to visit Downtown Santa Cruz

• Iconic Boardwalk: Stroll along the famous Santa Cruz Boardwalk, featuring amusement rides and vibrant entertainment.
• Stunning Beaches: Relax on the sandy shores of Santa Cruz Beach, ideal for sunbathing and beach activities.
• Scenic Wharf: Explore the Santa Cruz Wharf, offering dining, shops, and stunning views of the coastline.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy nearby national and state parks, perfect for hiking and nature exploration.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a variety of hotels and resorts, catering to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz offers a diverse selection of hotels and resorts, perfect for any traveller seeking adventure or a family-friendly getaway. From pet-friendly accommodations to star-rated establishments, you’ll discover a variety of options that cater to your needs. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and scenic beauty while relaxing in comfortable rooms ideally situated in the heart of the city.

• Los Gatos Lodge: Nestled 11.2km from Downtown Santa Cruz, Los Gatos Lodge is a 3-star hotel that caters to business travellers seeking a pet-friendly retreat. This lodge offers a professional atmosphere, complete with multiple meeting rooms and a fully accessible business centre, making it ideal for corporate stays. Guests can enjoy the comfort of their furry companions, with policies that accommodate pets and service animals. The property’s tranquil setting and well-appointed facilities create a conducive environment for work and relaxation alike.
• Ocean Pacific Lodge: Located a mere 311m from Downtown Santa Cruz, the Ocean Pacific Lodge is a family-oriented motel that welcomes both kids and pets. This accommodation is perfect for families looking for a fun-filled getaway, with amenities tailored for children, including cribs available for a small fee. The lodge's pet-friendly policies allow guests to bring along their furry friends, ensuring a complete family experience. With its convenient location, guests can easily explore the vibrant attractions of Santa Cruz while enjoying the comforts of home.
• Continental Inn: Situated just 249m from Downtown Santa Cruz, the Continental Inn offers a welcoming atmosphere for families and their pets. The hotel features amenities designed for children, such as cribs for a nominal fee. Pet owners will appreciate the inn’s accommodating policies, including food and water bowls for pets. Its proximity to local attractions makes it a convenient base for exploring the area, while the friendly service and comfortable accommodations ensure a delightful stay for all guests.

Where to stay near Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz offers a delightful blend of beachside charm and vibrant culture, perfect for your next getaway. Stroll along the iconic boardwalk, enjoy family-friendly activities, or unwind on the sandy shores. Explore trendy shops and cafes, and soak in the friendly atmosphere. Just a short drive away, the picturesque coastal towns and scenic parks invite relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation.

• Santa Cruz: Located a mere 249m from Downtown Santa Cruz, this vibrant city boasts a year-round appeal for visitors seeking outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and beach experiences. The summer months from June to August see a surge in traveller arrivals, making it a lively time to visit. Key highlights include the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, an amusement park nestled by the sea, and stunning beaches that invite sunbathing and surfing. The picturesque bay and nearby theme park further enhance the allure of this coastal gem.
• Capitola: Situated 2.5km from Downtown Santa Cruz, Capitola is a charming city known for its breathtaking scenery and relaxed beach vibe. This destination experiences moderate seasonal variations in visitor numbers, peaking in April and June to July. Here, you can indulge in outdoor activities, soak up the sun on its beautiful beach, or explore the quaint shops and eateries along the waterfront. The Capitola Village, with its colourful houses and stunning views of the bay, is a must-see, along with the nearby amusement park that guarantees fun for the whole family.
• Soquel Avenue Corridor: Just 186m from Downtown Santa Cruz, the Soquel Avenue Corridor is a lively village perfect for those seeking a blend of outdoor and family experiences. With visitor numbers peaking in the summer months, this area is ideal for enjoying the beach and exploring local attractions. The corridor is easily accessible and features a range of recreational areas, amusement parks, and family-friendly beaches. The proximity to Santa Cruz’s famed landmarks makes it a convenient and enjoyable stop on your vacation.

Things to do near Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz offers a delightful experience for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, ideal for a beach holiday. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the amusement park and the iconic boardwalk, alongside educational activities. The vibrant atmosphere invites exploration and fun, making it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation in a picturesque coastal setting.

Shopping

In Downtown Santa Cruz, you can explore Pacific Garden Mall, a vibrant centre with a mix of shops and entertainment, just 62m away. Ocean Street, 497m away, offers a variety of family-friendly businesses. If you're up for a drive, Hamlin Antiques, located 11.2km away, features unique vintage finds.

Recreation

The Seascape Golf Club offers a stunning outdoor experience, perfect for golf enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the fresh air and scenic views. Treks and Tracks Rock Climbing Trips provides an adventurous yet relaxing atmosphere, ideal for unwinding while engaging in exhilarating climbing activities. Luminescence Healing Haven focuses on body treatments, promoting overall wellness and relaxation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of soaring through the treetops on the Zip Line, 4.3km from Downtown Santa Cruz, surrounded by nature. Embark on a scenic hike at Ox Trailhead, located 2.5km away, or engage in an exhilarating paintball match at Santa Clara Paintball, 22.5km from the city.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Downtown Santa Cruz with a visit to Boardwalk Bowl for a fun arcade adventure. For a thrilling ride, try the Sky Glider, and for a more relaxed evening, catch a film at Cinemark Century Oakridge 20, perfect for families and couples alike.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown Santa Cruz

To save money during your visit to Downtown Santa Cruz, consider travelling between November and January for lower accommodation prices, avoiding the pricier summer months. Booking your stay on a Monday rather than a Saturday can also yield savings. Utilise Expedia's search tools to find budget-friendly options and consider eco-certified hotels for sustainable choices. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal may help you snag the best rates. Additionally, explore free activities in the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown 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 around Downtown Santa Cruz is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown 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 desired type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To uncover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You may find that you can save some money by combining your hotel booking in Downtown Santa Cruz with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and scenic beach experiences. Popular points of interest include the Santa Cruz Wharf and the beautiful Santa Cruz Beach, perfect for sun-soaked days. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the nearby national and state parks, as well as amusement parks, catering to those seeking culture and adventure in this vibrant coastal town.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: This vibrant amusement park offers thrilling rides, games, and a lively atmosphere right by the beach. Enjoy classic attractions like the Giant Dipper roller coaster while soaking up the sun and sea breeze.
• Capitola Beach: A picturesque spot, Capitola Beach features soft sands and charming colourful seaside cottages. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying delightful local eateries along the scenic beachfront.
• Mystery Spot: This quirky exhibit showcases optical illusions and gravitational anomalies, offering a fascinating experience that challenges your perceptions. Delve into the mystery with guided tours that highlight its unique cultural history.

Best time to go to Downtown Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Downtown Santa Cruz can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Downtown Santa Cruz falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). The coolest average temperature around Downtown 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 (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	60.1°F (15.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	63.3°F (17.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	63.9°F (17.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	61.5°F (16.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	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 Downtown Santa Cruz

Accessing Downtown Santa Cruz is convenient with several major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 30.4km away, with luxurious accommodation options such as the Palace Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, and Fairmont San Francisco, all approximately 7.5km from the airport. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is closer at 17.4km, with notable hotels like Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto and Santa Clara Marriott, both easily accessible. Lastly, Oakland International Airport (OAK) is 32.3km from Downtown Santa Cruz, featuring hotels like Claremont Resort & Club and 1 Hotel San Francisco nearby, providing convenient transportation options.