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

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Check availability on Santa Cruz Beach Resorts & Hotels

Tonight
17 Sept - 18 Sept
Tomorrow
18 Sept - 19 Sept
This weekend
18 Sept - 20 Sept
Next weekend
25 Sept - 27 Sept

Our top choices for Santa Cruz beach hotels

1. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
  • Unwind just steps from Santa Cruz Main Beach, where Mediterranean charm meets seaside bliss at this sun-drenched coastal retreat.
£124
includes taxes & fees
28 Sept - 29 Sept
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

2. Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
Westside Santa Cruz
£78
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Ocean Pacific Lodge

3. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
  • Relax in paradise steps from Santa Cruz Main Beach, where sandy shores meet spa-quality pampering and the boardwalk beckons.
£123
includes taxes & fees
11 Oct - 12 Oct
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

4. Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel
Westside Santa Cruz
  • Breathtaking white sand beach access with sun-soaked shoreline and rooftop terrace just steps from Santa Cruz Boardwalk.
£94
includes taxes & fees
22 Sept - 23 Sept
Marea Sol Hotel

5. Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
£116
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

6. Beach Street Inn and Suites

Beach Street Inn and Suites
Westside Santa Cruz
  • Relax on pristine sands nearby, with beach towels provided and heated pool awaiting after surf.
£114
includes taxes & fees
22 Sept - 23 Sept
Beach Street Inn and Suites

7. Beachview Inn

Beachview Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
£67
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Beachview Inn

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

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA
Westside Santa Cruz
  • Unwind just steps from Natural Bridges State Beach, where ocean adventures and coastal serenity combine with poolside relaxation.
£108
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA

9. Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea

Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea
Capitola
£84
includes taxes & fees
8 Oct - 9 Oct
Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea

10. Casablanca On The Beach

Casablanca On The Beach
Westside Santa Cruz
  • Bask in the golden sunshine just steps from the sand at this beachfront retreat, where ocean views and boardwalk adventures await.
£126
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Casablanca On The Beach
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Choose what matters most at beach hotels in Santa Cruz

Pool
Breakfast included
Adult-only
4 stars
Family-friendly

Beach hotels with pools in Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
£124
includes taxes & fees
28 Sept - 29 Sept
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
£123
includes taxes & fees
11 Oct - 12 Oct
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
£116
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola
Santa Cruz
£115
includes taxes & fees
29 Sept - 30 Sept
Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
Westside Santa Cruz
£130
includes taxes & fees
29 Sept - 30 Sept
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
Santa Cruz
£176
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Chaminade Resort & Spa

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG
Westside Santa Cruz
£120
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North
Westside Santa Cruz
£82
includes taxes & fees
11 Oct - 12 Oct
Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
£229
includes taxes & fees
6 Oct - 7 Oct
Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
£101
includes taxes & fees
6 Oct - 7 Oct
Hampton Inn Santa Cruz
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Beach hotels with free breakfast in Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
£124
includes taxes & fees
28 Sept - 29 Sept
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
£123
includes taxes & fees
11 Oct - 12 Oct
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
£116
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA
Westside Santa Cruz
£108
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG
Westside Santa Cruz
£120
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North
Westside Santa Cruz
£82
includes taxes & fees
11 Oct - 12 Oct
Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
Westside Santa Cruz
£130
includes taxes & fees
29 Sept - 30 Sept
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Mission Inn

Mission Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
£93
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Mission Inn

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
£101
includes taxes & fees
6 Oct - 7 Oct
Hampton Inn Santa Cruz

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA
Westside Santa Cruz
£106
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Find out more about Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz and its attractions for beach lovers

Santa Cruz, California, is a beach lover's paradise, offering a delightful blend of sun, sand, and adventure. Start your day at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where you can indulge in thrilling rides, savour classic seaside treats, and enjoy the stunning ocean views. For those who seek serenity, Natural Bridges State Beach boasts picturesque rock formations and tide pools to explore, perfect for families looking to engage with nature. A stroll along West Cliff Drive offers breathtaking coastal vistas, where you can spot surfers riding the waves at Steamer Lane, an ideal spot for both watching and participating in this exhilarating sport. After a day of beach activities, unwind at the Santa Cruz Wharf, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and watch sea lions basking in the sun. For accommodation, consider staying in the vibrant downtown area, just steps away from the beach, where boutique hotels provide a cosy atmosphere and attentive service, ensuring that your family feels pampered after a day of exploration. With the beach at your doorstep, the convenience and charm of Santa Cruz make for an unforgettable coastal getaway.

Find the best beach hotels and resorts in Santa Cruz

For beach lovers planning a trip to Santa Cruz, these hotels provide the perfect coastal escape. Each option offers convenient access to the sandy shores and a range of beach-centric amenities to enhance your stay.Beach Street Inn and Suites

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: With its prime location just steps from the beach, Beach Street Inn and Suites is a dreamy retreat for those who cherish sun and surf. This charming hotel boasts an impressive review rating of 9.4, and guests will love the direct access to the sand and nearby surfing hotspots. The outdoor heated pool and hot tub provide perfect relaxation spots after a day of beach fun.
  • Other amenities: Guests can enjoy a terrace for soaking up the sun, free beach towels, and daily housekeeping. The hotel also features a balcony or patio with ocean views, allowing guests to enjoy the coastal breeze from their room. With a concierge service, self-parking, and convenient in-room microwaves, this hotel is equipped to cater to beachgoers' needs.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.3 km, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.3 km, Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.5 km

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Nestled conveniently near the beach, Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola is a perfect selection for beach lovers, with a review rating of 9.4. This hotel offers easy access to water sports and other beach activities like surfing and kayaking, making it an adventure-seeker's paradise. Guests can also enjoy a refreshing outdoor pool, ideal for cooling off after a sunny day on the shore.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features complimentary breakfast, fitness facilities, and electric car charging stations. Guests will appreciate the accessibility features of the pool and hotel, as well as the option for early check-in. Additional conveniences include a snack bar, free toiletries, and a range of outdoor activities available nearby, from hiking to biking.
  • Nearby attractions: Capitola Beach - 1.5 km, Capitola Wharf - 1.5 km, Twin Lakes State Beach - 2.4 km

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Dream Inn Santa Cruz exemplifies luxury by the beach, offering a breathtaking beachfront location with a review rating of 9.2. This upscale hotel features a beachfront restaurant, allowing guests to dine with stunning ocean views, and the sandy beach is just steps away. The outdoor pool, accompanied by poolside service, is perfect for those wanting to relax in style after a day at the beach.
  • Other amenities: Guests can enjoy valet parking, a full-service spa, and room service for added convenience. The hotel boasts luxurious touches such as climate control, a fireplace, and a kitchen in select rooms. With a range of features including a poolside bar, heated pool, and concierge services, this hotel ensures a lavish and memorable stay.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Cowell's Beach - 0 km, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.1 km, Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.2 km

Marea Sol Hotel

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Marea Sol Hotel is a charming retreat located just a short stroll from the beach, perfect for sun-seekers. With a solid review rating of 9.2, this hotel offers ocean views and direct beach access, allowing guests to indulge in the serene coastal experience. The outdoor pool is a wonderful spot to relax after a day spent enjoying the sun and sand.
  • Other amenities: This hotel features a rooftop terrace for stunning views, free toiletries, and self-parking for guest convenience. Each room comes with a furnished balcony or patio, inviting guests to unwind al fresco. The hotel also provides air conditioning and daily housekeeping, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.3 km, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.3 km, Main Beach - 0.2 km

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Surf City Inn and Suites

Surf City Inn and Suites

10/10 Excellent
"Seamless check in, and really good amenities for the price. Didn’t even get a chance to use the putting green"
Peter 1-night trip
Posted 21 hours ago
Surf City Inn and Suites
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

8/10 Good
"Unfortunately, when we first checked in, we found bedbugs in the bed while doing our usual bed check. We immediately notified the front desk and showed them photos. The staff was very concerned, took the situation seriously, and quickly moved us to a different room far away from the original one. Our new room was very clean, and we had no further issues during our stay. The hotel was extremely accommodating and waived our parking fees and provided us with breakfast, which we really appreciated. Despite the rough start, everyone we interacted with was incredibly kind and helpful. We also had great service at the hotel bar and restaurant. The hot tub was unfortunately out of service and being repaired during our stay, so we weren’t able to use it. However, the pool was amazing and heated, which we really enjoyed! Finding bedbugs was obviously concerning, but I really appreciated how seriously and professionally the staff handled the situation. Their customer service made a big difference in our overall experience."
Nicole 3-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"We stayed one night and I wish we could have stayed for a week! Beautiful property. Amazing staff. Front desk was so kind and on point. The bed was the most comfortable bed I've slept in. Room was huge and well laid out. LOVED the patio. View onto beautiful trees and trails. It was very quiet while we were there. I will absolutely be back."
Fran 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Chaminade Resort & Spa
Hotel Solares

Hotel Solares

10/10 Excellent
"I would recommend this stay"
Sanmatie 1-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
Hotel Solares

Frequently asked questions

What are the best beach hotels in Santa Cruz?
Some of the best beach hotels in Santa Cruz include Beach Street Inn and Suites, Marea Sol Hotel, and Dream Inn Santa Cruz.Beach Street Inn and Suites, with a 9.4 rating, is located directly on the beach, offering ocean views from many of its rooms. Guests often praise its heated outdoor pool and comfortable beds.The Marea Sol Hotel, rated 9.2, provides direct beach access and features rooms with ocean views and furnished balconies or patios. Many guests highlight its great location and clean rooms.For a 4-star option, Dream Inn Santa Cruz, also with a 9.2 rating, is situated right on the beach. It boasts an outdoor pool with a poolside bar and offers beautiful ocean views. Reviewers frequently mention its friendly staff and excellent restaurant.
How much does a beach hotel in Santa Cruz cost?
Prices for beach hotels in Santa Cruz vary, but you can find a great deal from £62 on Expedia. You're likely to find lower rates if you're travelling during the off-peak season or mid-week. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.
Which Santa Cruz hotels are near the best beaches?
For hotels near the best beaches in Santa Cruz, consider Beach Street Inn and Suites, Marea Sol Hotel, and Dream Inn Santa Cruz.The Beach Street Inn and Suites, with a 9.4 rating, offers direct access to the beach and ocean views from some rooms. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor heated pool with sun loungers and umbrellas.Marea Sol Hotel, rated 9.2, provides direct beach access and features ocean views from some rooms, often with a balcony or furnished patio. Some rooms also have a rooftop terrace.The 4-star Dream Inn Santa Cruz, also with a 9.2 rating, is located directly on the beach, offering beach and ocean views. It has an outdoor pool and a poolside bar for guests to enjoy.
Which beach hotels in Santa Cruz are good for families?
For families seeking beach hotels in Santa Cruz, consider the Beach Street Inn and Suites, Marea Sol Hotel, or Dream Inn Santa Cruz.The Beach Street Inn and Suites has a 9.4 rating and is located directly by the ocean, offering ocean views and direct beach access. It features a heated outdoor pool with sun loungers and umbrellas, and guests frequently mention the comfortable beds and friendly staff.Marea Sol Hotel, with a 9.2 rating, provides direct access to the beach and offers ocean views, with some rooms featuring balconies or furnished balconies. Guests often highlight its superb location and clean rooms.The 4-star Dream Inn Santa Cruz, rated 9.2, is situated right on the beach, offering ocean, beach, and partial ocean views. It has an outdoor pool with a poolside bar and sun loungers. Reviewers consistently praise its beautiful rooms and great staff.
What are the best Santa Cruz hotels with ocean views?
Some of the best Santa Cruz hotels with ocean views include the Beach Street Inn and Suites, Marea Sol Hotel, and the Dream Inn Santa Cruz.The Beach Street Inn and Suites, with a 9.4 rating, offers direct beach access and features private and heated outdoor pools with sun loungers. Customers often highlight the nice and clean rooms and the amazing location.The Marea Sol Hotel, rated 9.2, provides direct beach access and boasts ocean view balconies or patios, with some rooms offering a furnished balcony or access to a rooftop terrace. Guests frequently mention the great location and clean rooms.The 4-star Dream Inn Santa Cruz, with a 9.2 rating, offers full ocean and beach views and is located right on the beach. It features an outdoor pool with a poolside bar and sun loungers. Reviewers often praise the beautiful rooms and the excellent restaurant.
What are the top-rated beach hotels in Santa Cruz with a pool?
For top-rated beach hotels in Santa Cruz with a pool, consider Dream Inn Santa Cruz, La Bahia Hotel and Spa, and Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection.The 4-star Dream Inn Santa Cruz, with a 9.2 rating, is highly regarded for its direct beachfront location, with many rooms offering beach or ocean views. It features an outdoor pool and a poolside bar, and customers frequently mention its excellent location right on the beach.La Bahia Hotel and Spa is a 4.5-star property with an impressive 9.8 rating. While it is located near the beach, it boasts an outdoor resort-inclusive pool and offers spa services including hydrotherapy treatments and hot stone massage.The 4-star Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, rated 8.6, provides an outdoor pool with cabanas, sun loungers, and a poolside bar. It is also located near the ocean, offering a convenient base for beach visits.
Which beach hotels in Santa Cruz are good for couples?
For couples looking for a beach hotel in Santa Cruz, consider La Bahia Hotel and Spa, Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages, or The Boardwalk Beach House.The 4.5-star La Bahia Hotel and Spa, with a 9.8 rating, offers ocean views and a full-service spa with a wide range of treatments, including couples' treatment rooms and thalassotherapy.The 3.5-star Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages, rated 8.8, is located near the ocean and provides partial ocean views. Guests often mention the great location and friendly staff.The Boardwalk Beach House, with a 7.6 rating, is near the beach and offers beach views. It also includes free local breakfast and free self-parking.
Which area of Santa Cruz is best to stay in for beaches?
The best area in Santa Cruz for beach access is the area immediately surrounding the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Main Beach.This central area puts you right on the doorstep of the city's most famous stretch of sand. You'll find a range of hotels directly across from the beach and within a short walk of the Boardwalk's attractions, including amusement park rides and arcade games. West Cliff Drive, a scenic coastal path, starts here, offering lovely views and walks.Families will find this location particularly convenient. With the beach just steps away and the Boardwalk providing entertainment for all ages, it minimises travel time and keeps everyone happily occupied. There are plenty of casual eateries nearby, great for quick meals between beach sessions.Couples looking for a lively beach holiday will also appreciate this area. You can easily spend your days relaxing on the sand, strolling along the pier, and enjoying the lively option.
Which top beach hotels in Santa Cruz offer water sport activities?
For top beach hotels in Santa Cruz that offer water sport activities, consider Beach Street Inn and Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, and West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn.The Beach Street Inn and Suites, with a 9.4 rating, offers direct beach access and is located very near the ocean. Guests can enjoy private and outdoor heated pools, and the location is ideal for kayaking, surfing, and bodyboarding.Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, rated 9.4, provides free breakfast and is near the beach. This hotel is conveniently located for kayaking, surfing, bodyboarding, windsurfing, and scuba diving, and it also offers water sports equipment.The 3.5-star West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn, with a 9.0 rating, features partial ocean views and is close to the beach, making it suitable for snorkelling and windsurfing. It also provides a complimentary full breakfast.
What is the best time of year to stay in a beach hotel in Santa Cruz?
The most popular time to stay in a beach hotel in Santa Cruz is during the summer, particularly in July and August. The weather is delightfully warm, with average temperatures hovering around 22-25°C, creating superb conditions for soaking up the sun on Main Beach or catching waves at Steamer Lane.During these peak months, the city truly comes alive with a vibrant beach atmosphere. It's an ideal time for families to enjoy the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and for couples to stroll along the wharf, taking in the ocean views. The long, sunny days mean plenty of time for all your favourite watersports and beachfront relaxation.For a slightly different, yet equally appealing, experience, May is a fantastic alternative. While the ocean might still be a touch cool for some, the weather is beautifully mild, typically ranging from 18-20°C, making it excellent for coastal walks and exploring the natural beauty of Natural Bridges State Beach.
What beach activities should we do in Santa Cruz?
The best beach activities in Santa Cruz centre around the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the natural beauty of its coastline.The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a must-visit, offering a classic seaside amusement park experience right on the sand. You can ride the historic Giant Dipper rollercoaster or the Looff Carousel, both National Historic Landmarks. For a more relaxed time, enjoy the arcade games, grab some classic boardwalk food like corn dogs and funnel cakes, or simply stroll along the beach, which is well-maintained and provides plenty of space for sunbathing and building sandcastles. This area is superb for families looking for a fun-filled day with plenty of entertainment options.For those seeking a more tranquil beach experience, Natural Bridges State Beach, located a short drive west of the Boardwalk, is ideal. It's famous for its natural rock formations, including the iconic arch bridge that gives the beach its name. The beach is excellent for exploring tide pools at low tide, where you can spot sea stars, anemones, and crabs. It's also a prime spot for monarch butterfly viewing from October to February. Couples or nature lovers will appreciate the scenic beauty and opportunities for quiet walks and wildlife observation.
Can I cancel my beach hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right beach hotel in Santa Cruz for you.
How can I save on a beach hotel in Santa Cruz with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a beach hotel in Santa Cruz. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a beach hotel in Santa Cruz as a package?
Booking a beach hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package. *Savings vary and are not available on all flight and hotel bookings.

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