Search Cheap Hotels in Santa Cruz

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation

  • Treat yourself

    Save instantly and earn perks with One Key
    Learn about One Key

  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check availability on Santa Cruz Cheap Hotels

Tonight
8 May - 9 May
Tomorrow
9 May - 10 May
This weekend
8 May - 10 May
Next weekend
15 May - 17 May

Our top choices for Santa Cruz cheap hotels

Business centre

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,288 reviews)
"Clean, close to pier and free breakfast would stay again "
United States
jose
The price is £134
includes taxes & fees
10 May - 11 May
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Reception

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
4.0 star property
Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,299 reviews)
"Very clean room, friendly staff"
United States
Anthony
The price is £104
includes taxes & fees
12 May - 13 May
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
Property grounds

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
4.0 star property
Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,005 reviews)
"The stay was nice "
United States
Michelle
The price is £130
includes taxes & fees
12 May - 13 May
Chaminade Resort & Spa
Lobby

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola
3.0 star property
Santa Cruz
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,005 reviews)
"Great location- super friendly staff "
United States
Lisa
The price is £115
includes taxes & fees
11 May - 12 May
Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola
Lobby

Four Points by Sheraton Santa Cruz Scotts Valley

Four Points by Sheraton Santa Cruz Scotts Valley
3.0 star property
Scotts Valley
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,007 reviews)
"I had a great time . The room was very clean , the staff was amazing, and location is convenient "
United States
Stephanie
The price is £103
includes taxes & fees
14 May - 15 May
Four Points by Sheraton Santa Cruz Scotts Valley
Front of property

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,380 reviews)
"Very clean room, great parking and very friendly staff. "
United States
Samuel
The price is £78
includes taxes & fees
11 May - 12 May
Ocean Pacific Lodge
Property amenity

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,139 reviews)
"Everything was perfect doing our stay!! Shelby the receptionist was amazing!!"
United States
Teutonia Vernee
The price is £118
includes taxes & fees
11 May - 12 May
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Exterior

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
3.0 star property
Boulder Creek
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,011 reviews)
"Really like the historic hotel "
United States
Ed
The price is £64
includes taxes & fees
20 May - 21 May
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
Exterior

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,196 reviews)
"Very clean and updated accommodations. I had read that they were renovating recently, and it almost felt like a brand-new hotel! Great location; convenient underground parking (for a fee) with elevator to all floors. Highly recommend this hotel."
United States
Janice
The price is £107
includes taxes & fees
13 May - 14 May
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG
Exterior

Fireside Inn Santa Cruz

Fireside Inn Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
7.2 out of 10, Good, (1,003 reviews)
"Close to all the fun places and good food ❤️‍🔥"
United States
Bill
The price is £50
includes taxes & fees
10 May - 11 May
Fireside Inn Santa Cruz
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.
View all properties

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, offers a delightful mix of budget-friendly activities and attractions that cater to the adventurous traveller. Start your journey at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where you can enjoy free admission and indulge in affordable treats like corn dogs or cotton candy while taking in the vibrant atmosphere. For a taste of nature, head to Natural Bridges State Beach, where you can witness stunning tidal pools and migratory monarch butterflies, all at no cost. If you're in the mood for some culture, visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History, which often features free admission days, allowing you to explore local art without breaking the bank. The lively Downtown Santa Cruz is perfect for those seeking thrift shops and local eateries; grab a bite at one of the many food trucks offering delicious, inexpensive meals. When it comes to accommodation, consider staying near the vibrant Downtown area or close to the beach, where you’ll find a range of budget hotels that provide excellent service and a comfortable base for your adventures. Here, you can easily explore the charming streets filled with local shops and cafes, ensuring a delightful experience without the hefty price tag.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Cruz

For budget-conscious travelers visiting Santa Cruz, a range of excellent hotels offer affordable comfort without compromising on quality. Here are some top choices that won't break the bank.

Beach Street Inn and Suites

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Beach Street Inn and Suites is a charming budget-friendly hotel with a review rating of 9.4, perfect for those seeking a relaxed coastal getaway. Guests enjoy essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi and toiletries, as well as access to a lovely outdoor pool. This hotel allows guests to unwind while being steps away from the beach.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its prime location, the hotel offers beach towels, a hot tub for relaxation, and easy access to kayaking and surfing opportunities nearby. Additional amenities include self-parking, daily housekeeping, and a private pool area for guests looking to soak up the sun in comfort.
  • 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 a budget-friendly vacation: Guests will find Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola to be a fantastic budget option, a stellar review rating of 9.4. This hotel provides complimentary continental breakfast and toiletries, ensuring a straightforward stay for budget-conscious guests looking for value.
  • Other amenities: The hotel also features an outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness centre, and convenient access to local beaches and the Boardwalk. Guests can take advantage of early check-in, electric car charging stations, and nearby water sports activities like kayaking and surfing, making it a lively destination for adventurous travellers.
  • Nearby attractions: Capitola Beach - 1.5 km, Capitola Wharf - 1.5 km, Twin Lakes State Beach - 2.4 km

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites offers exceptional value for budget travellers with a strong review rating of 9.2. This hotel features complimentary breakfast and toiletries, ensuring that guests have all the essentials for a comfortable stay without added expenses.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its thoughtful amenities, guests can take advantage of an outdoor pool, hot tub, and nearby beach access. The hotel also provides free self-parking, air conditioning, and various recreational opportunities such as surfing and hiking, making it an ideal spot for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Santa Cruz.
  • Nearby attractions: Capitola Beach - 1.6 km, Capitola Wharf - 1.6 km, Twin Lakes State Beach - 2.5 km

Marea Sol Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Marea Sol Hotel is another excellent budget option for travellers, featuring a review rating of 9.2. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, the hotel provides free Wi-Fi and toiletries, making it a practical choice for those looking to save without compromising comfort. Guests can enjoy the beautiful outdoor pool and stunning ocean views.
  • Other amenities: Alongside these amenities, Marea Sol Hotel offers self-parking, air conditioning, direct beach access, and a rooftop terrace for enjoying the sunset. The hotel also features furnished balconies, creating a lovely environment for relaxation after a day of exploring Santa Cruz.
  • 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

How to get cheap hotels in Santa Cruz?

 

✅ The length of stay in Santa Cruz often varies depending on the nature of the trip, but many travellers opt to stay for several days or up to a week to take in Santa Cruz's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in Santa Cruz in 2026, book your hotel well in advance. Reserving your stay at least a few weeks or months ahead of time can help you take advantage of amazing rates on cheap hotels in Santa Cruz, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in Santa Cruz on Expedia, start by entering your travel dates and the number of individuals in your group. Once you've provided this information, you can refine your search results by filtering for budget hotels in Santa Cruz.

✅  Use the filtering tools offered by Expedia to refine your search results by location, price limits, amenities such as breakfast included, and other factors that matter to you. This will help you quickly locate the ideal budget-friendly hotel that fits your specific requirements.

✅  If you're looking to save money on a cheap hotel in Santa Cruz, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in Santa Cruz. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £50*.

✅  Santa Cruz offers numerous budget-friendly attractions and activities for travellers, such as art and exhibits at free museums and galleries or exploring Santa Cruz on foot.

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in Santa Cruz is to search Expedia for properties that provide family-friendly accommodations and features such as activities and complimentary meals, and then sort these by price.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Room was spacious and clean "
Regina 1-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
Chaminade Resort & Spa

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Santa Cruz as a budget traveler?
For budget-conscious travellers seeking excellent value in Santa Cruz, top options include Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, and Mission Inn.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, with a superb 9.4 rating, offers complimentary breakfast, including a continental option, ensuring a great start to your day without additional cost. Guests consistently praise the clean and spacious rooms, friendly staff, and the delicious breakfast.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, rated 9.2, also provides free breakfast, alongside free WiFi, making it easy to stay connected. Reviewers frequently highlight the spacious and clean rooms, the nice breakfast, and the excellent, friendly staff.

Mission Inn, boasting a 9.2 rating, provides free WiFi and a complimentary continental breakfast, adding to its great value. Customers often mention the comfortable and clean rooms, helpful and professional staff, and its convenient location.
How much does a budget hotel in Santa Cruz cost?
Budget hotel prices in Santa Cruz vary, but you can find a great deal from £50 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Santa Cruz is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in Santa Cruz, areas slightly away from the immediate beachfront, such as those along Mission Street or near the university, often present the best value. These locations typically offer lower room rates while still providing convenient access to the city's main attractions via public transport or a short drive.

Solo travellers will find that properties in these areas, including motels and smaller inns, frequently offer good deals, especially outside peak season. Mission Street, for instance, is a major thoroughfare with several accommodation options that are usually more affordable than those directly by the Boardwalk. From here, you can easily catch a bus to the beach, downtown, or the university campus.

Another option for those on a tight budget is to look for accommodations a little further inland, perhaps closer to the foothills. While these might require a bit more travel to reach the coast, they often provide significantly cheaper rates and a quieter atmosphere.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Santa Cruz?
For top-rated, budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz suitable for families, consider the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, and Comfort Inn Beach/Boardwalk Area.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, with an excellent rating of 9.2, is highly praised for its spacious and clean rooms, making it comfortable for families. Guests frequently mention the delicious free continental breakfast, and the staff consistently receives great reviews for their friendly service. The hotel's location is also highlighted as excellent, providing convenient access to local attractions.

Another superb option is the Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, also boasting a 9.2 rating. This hotel offers comfortable and clean rooms, along with a great complimentary continental breakfast. Reviewers often praise the amazing staff and the convenient parking. Its location is particularly noted for being close to the beach, which is ideal for family outings.

The Comfort Inn Beach/Boardwalk Area, rated 7.8, is a practical choice for families seeking good value. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, and the friendly staff are frequently mentioned in reviews.
What cheap hotels in Santa Cruz offer complimentary breakfast?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz that offer complimentary breakfast, excellent choices include Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, Mission Inn, Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, and Hyatt Place Santa Cruz.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, with a superb 9.4 rating, offers guests a delicious complimentary continental breakfast daily, along with free Wi-Fi and free toiletries. Reviewers consistently praise the breakfast as "delicious" and "good," and the rooms are often described as "clean" and "big."

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, rated 9.2, provides a free continental breakfast on weekends, ensuring a great start to your day. Guests frequently highlight the "nice" and "delicious" breakfast, and the rooms are noted for being "spacious" and "clean."

Mission Inn, boasting a 9.2 rating, offers a convenient complimentary continental breakfast. Reviewers appreciate the "convenient" and "good" breakfast, and the rooms are often described as "comfortable" and "clean."

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, also with a 9.2 rating, includes a free continental breakfast. Guests consistently rate the breakfast as "great" and "good," with rooms being "comfortable" and "clean." This hotel also offers free self-parking.

The 3-star Hyatt Place Santa Cruz, rated 9.0, provides a free buffet breakfast, making it easy to fuel up before exploring.
When is the most affordable time to visit Santa Cruz?
The most affordable time to visit Santa Cruz is typically during the shoulder seasons, specifically late spring (April to May) and early autumn (September to October), outside of major holidays. During these periods, you'll generally find lower prices on accommodation and fewer crowds, offering a more relaxed experience.

Solo travellers will appreciate the quieter atmosphere for exploring the natural beauty and vibrant culture without the peak season rush. Accommodation prices, which can skyrocket in summer, tend to be more reasonable, making hostels and guesthouses particularly good value. You can enjoy the beaches and hiking trails around areas like Natural Bridges State Beach or Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park with more space to yourself.

While the famous Beach Boardwalk has seasonal hours, many of Santa Cruz's free attractions, such as West Cliff Drive for scenic walks and surfing views, or the bustling downtown area with its unique shops and street art, are enjoyable year-round.
Are there any cheap Santa Cruz hotels near Monterey Bay?
Yes, for budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz near Monterey Bay, consider the Beach Street Inn and Suites, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, Marea Sol Hotel, and Mission Inn.

The Beach Street Inn and Suites boasts a fantastic 9.4 review rating. Guests frequently praise the clean and comfortable rooms, along with the excellent and friendly staff. It offers great value amenities such as free Wi-Fi and an outdoor heated pool with sun loungers, great for relaxing after a day exploring the bay.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, with a 9.2 rating, provides excellent value with spacious, clean rooms. Travellers often highlight the delicious free breakfast, available on weekends, and the friendly, great customer service. Free Wi-Fi is also included.

For those desiring ocean views, the Marea Sol Hotel, rated 9.2, is a superb choice. Many rooms offer partial or full ocean views from balconies or furnished patios. Guests consistently praise its great location, clean rooms, and excellent, friendly staff. Free Wi-Fi and complimentary toiletries are also provided.

The Mission Inn, with a 9.2 rating, is a convenient and comfortable option. It offers free continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi, which guests find very helpful.
Is Santa Cruz a budget-friendly destination?
While Santa Cruz is generally considered a more expensive destination, particularly during peak season, travellers can absolutely experience its magic on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, look beyond the beachfront and consider staying in areas slightly inland, or exploring options like hostels and guesthouses. For solo travellers, there are several much-loved hostels that provide a social atmosphere without breaking the bank. Booking well in advance, especially during the off-peak season (outside of summer), can also lead to significant savings.

Much of Santa Cruz's appeal lies in its natural beauty, which is largely free to enjoy. Couples can spend days exploring the stunning coastline, relaxing on the many beaches, or hiking in the nearby redwood forests. Take advantage of free activities like walking along the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf, browsing the shops and street performers in Downtown Santa Cruz, or visiting the Natural Bridges State Beach to see the rock formations and tide pools. Packing your own snacks and drinks for beach days or hikes will also help keep costs down.

When it comes to dining, venture away from the main tourist strips and seek out local eateries and food trucks for more affordable and authentic options. Picnics on the beach with groceries from a local supermarket are also a fantastic and budget-friendly way for both couples and solo travellers to enjoy a meal with a view.
What cheap hotels in Santa Cruz offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz offering cooking facilities or kitchenettes, consider the Harbor Inn, Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz, and Surf City Inn and Suites.

The Harbor Inn, with an 8.6 rating, provides kitchenettes in its rooms, superb for preparing your own meals. Guests also benefit from complimentary WiFi and free self-parking, adding to the overall value.

Another solid option is the Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz, rated 8.0. Reviewers often highlight the nice and clean rooms, along with the convenient and easy parking. Its kitchenettes are a great feature for travellers looking to save on dining out.

Surf City Inn and Suites, with a 7.6 rating, also offers kitchen or kitchenette facilities, making it a practical choice for longer stays or for those who prefer to cook.
Which cheap hotels in Santa Cruz have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Santa Cruz with great customer service, travellers often praise Beach Street Inn and Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, Marea Sol Hotel, and Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites.

Beach Street Inn and Suites, with a 9.4 rating, receives excellent feedback for its customer service and friendly staff. Guests particularly appreciate the great service provided by the reception staff. The hotel also offers useful amenities like free WiFi and a private outdoor heated pool.

The Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, rated 9.4, is highly regarded for its amazing and friendly staff. This hotel provides great value with free breakfast, including a continental option, free WiFi, and free toiletries.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, with a 9.2 rating, is known for its good and great customer service, as well as its friendly and great staff. Travellers will appreciate the complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, and free toiletries.

Marea Sol Hotel, rated 9.2, consistently receives excellent and great reviews for its service and customer service, with staff described as helpful and friendly. Many rooms at this hotel offer ocean views or partial ocean views from a balcony or furnished patio.

Finally, the Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, with a 9.2 rating, is celebrated for its great and amazing staff, and good customer service.
Are there any cheap hotels in Santa Cruz that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz are great for handling non-standard arrival or departure times.

The Comfort Inn Beach/Boardwalk Area, with a 7.8 rating, offers early check-in and late check-out options. Guests consistently praise its comfortable and clean rooms, as well as the friendly and amazing staff. The free breakfast and convenient location are also highlighted in reviews.

Another option is the Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz, rated 7.2. This hotel also provides early check-in and late check-out. Travellers appreciate its great location, good breakfast, and clean hot tub. Free continental breakfast and free WiFi are included, adding to its value.

For those seeking flexibility, the 3-star Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, with an 8.0 rating, also offers early check-in and late check-out. Reviewers often mention the clean and quiet rooms, the hot and good breakfast, and the friendly staff. Free buffet breakfast and free WiFi are provided.

Finally, the SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Cruz can accommodate early check-in. Guests frequently mention the helpful front desk and comfortable rooms, with staff often described as very friendly. This hotel offers free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking, including space for RVs, buses, and trucks.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Santa Cruz with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Santa Cruz. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz offers a wealth of free activities, superb for budget-conscious travellers looking to experience its unique charm without spending a fortune.

For couples and solo travellers, exploring the city's natural beauty is a must. Stroll along the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, soaking in the lively option and enjoying the ocean breeze – simply being there is an experience in itself. Further down the coast, Natural Bridges State Beach provides stunning photo opportunities with its distinctive rock formations and tide pools. Walking through the quiet residential streets near Lighthouse Field State Beach can also lead to breathtaking cliffside views and the chance to spot surfers.

Beyond the coastline, immerse yourselves in the vibrant culture of downtown Santa Cruz. Wander through Pacific Avenue, browsing the lively shops and street art, or visit the Santa Cruz Wharf, where you can watch sea lions and enjoy panoramic views of the bay. Many local parks, such as Harvey West Park, offer pleasant walking trails and green spaces for a relaxed afternoon.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Santa Cruz as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, 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.
Can I cancel my budget 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 budget hotel in Santa Cruz for you.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia