Find hotels in Santa Cruz, CA from £53

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful beaches ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and seaside activities.
• Vibrant Boardwalk: Enjoy thrilling rides and amusements at the lively Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a classic Californian attraction.
• Majestic Redwoods: Explore nearby redwood forests, offering breathtaking views and serene hiking trails.
• Cultural Hotspot: Discover charming shops and local eateries in Downtown Santa Cruz, rich in community spirit.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in various outdoor activities, from surfing to boat excursions along the stunning coastline.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Discover the charm of Santa Cruz with a range of hotel accommodations tailored to suit every visitor's preferences. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly options, venues for business travel, or an adventure-filled getaway, Santa Cruz has you covered. Explore the best hotels in the area, complete with glowing reviews and exceptional amenities, ensuring a delightful stay on California's stunning coast.

• La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley: Situated 37.0km from Santa Cruz, La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley is a 3.5-star hotel that caters to business travellers seeking a comfortable yet professional environment. This property boasts a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, making it an ideal choice for those attending conferences or needing a restful retreat after a busy day. Guests appreciate the well-appointed rooms, equipped with essential facilities such as free Wi-Fi, a business centre, and meeting spaces that enable seamless productivity.
• Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell: Located 35.4km from Santa Cruz, this 3.5-star hotel is perfect for both business and pet-friendly leisure travellers. Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell offers a home-away-from-home atmosphere, featuring spacious suites with kitchenettes, allowing guests to cook and dine at their convenience. With a welcoming policy for pets, including specific weight limits and fees, it caters to your furry companions while providing amenities like free breakfast and a fitness centre, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all.
• Extended Stay America Suites San Jose Edenvale South: A budget-friendly accommodation option situated 35.4km from Santa Cruz, Extended Stay America Suites San Jose Edenvale South is ideal for those seeking a practical and affordable stay. This hotel welcomes pets, allowing for both dogs and cats, and includes essential amenities such as in-room kitchens and laundry facilities. Guests appreciate the flexibility of extended stays and the convenience of the property’s location, which offers easy access to local attractions and businesses, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious travellers.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, is a delightful destination for families and beach lovers alike. Stroll along the vibrant Downtown Santa Cruz, where friendly locals and charming shops await. Don’t miss the iconic Santa Cruz Beach, perfect for sunbathing and seaside fun. For a dose of nature, explore the nearby redwood forests or enjoy thrilling outdoor activities that highlight the region's stunning scenery. This coastal gem is sure to create lasting memories for all visitors.

• Capitola: Nestled just 6.4km from Santa Cruz, Capitola is a charming coastal city that captures the essence of California beach life. Known for its vibrant seaside atmosphere, visitors flock here for outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. The town boasts stunning beaches, a picturesque bay, and a renowned amusement park nearby. Particularly lively from April to July, Capitola is perfect for those seeking sun-soaked relaxation and engaging local events. Enjoy the scenic boardwalk and the delightful shops and eateries that line the waterfront, ensuring a memorable beach experience.
• Twin Lakes: Located within the Santa Cruz area, Twin Lakes is a quaint village that offers a serene retreat for beach enthusiasts and families alike. The village experiences seasonal visitor peaks during the summer months from June to August. With its close proximity to beautiful beaches and a family beach renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, Twin Lakes is an ideal spot for outdoor activities. The local amusement park and recreational areas provide ample entertainment, making it a wonderful destination for both relaxation and adventure.
• Eastside Santa Cruz: A vibrant neighbourhood situated around Santa Cruz, Eastside Santa Cruz is a delightful area that welcomes visitors year-round. With its peak season from June to August, this neighbourhood is perfect for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities, family outings, and beach fun. It features easy access to an amusement park, a lively boardwalk, and various recreational areas. Nearby landmarks, including beautiful beaches and a scenic bay, offer stunning views and plenty of opportunities for exploration, ensuring that every visitor finds something to captivate their interest.

Things to do near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is perfect for outdoor family holidays, featuring a vibrant boardwalk and amusement park. You can enjoy thrilling surfing spots, explore local attractions, and take in live music at various venues. For a unique experience, consider photo tours and boat excursions to appreciate the stunning coastal scenery. With its blend of adventure and relaxation, Santa Cruz promises an unforgettable getaway.

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, visit the Pacific Avenue shops for unique gifts and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, head to the Westfield Valley Fair Mall, where you can explore a range of high street brands and specialty stores.

Recreation

Algonquin Dog Park, located 40.2km from Santa Cruz, offers a luxurious atmosphere amidst nature. This private club provides tranquil spaces for relaxation and rejuvenation, perfect for unwinding while surrounded by stunning landscapes and the joyful presence of dogs at play.

Adventure

In Santa Cruz, explore the breathtaking coastline while surfing at Steamer Lane, renowned for its challenging waves. For a unique adventure, hike through the redwoods at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, immersing yourself in nature's beauty and tranquillity.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Catalyst on Pacific Avenue, where you can enjoy live music from local bands. For a more laid-back evening, visit the Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing, sampling their artisanal beers while soaking in the friendly atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Cruz

• 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels right away. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Santa Cruz with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is perfect for outdoor family beach holidays, offering a variety of attractions such as beautiful beaches, national and state parks, and the scenic bay. Visitors can enjoy a rich cultural experience while exploring local points of interest, including the famous Santa Cruz Wharf. This charming coastal city provides a delightful mix of activities for those seeking sun, sea, and adventure.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience the thrill of this iconic amusement park located right on the beach, offering a delightful mix of rides, games, and classic seaside attractions. Perfect for families and adventure seekers, it boasts a vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter and enjoyment.
• Monterey Bay: Just 20.9km from Santa Cruz, this breathtaking bay features stunning coastal scenery and outdoor activities. Enjoy the beautiful beaches, explore marine life, or take part in water sports amidst picturesque views that make it a perfect getaway.
• Mystery Spot: Immerse yourself in the intriguing cultural experience of this famous gravity-defying exhibit. Located within Santa Cruz, it offers a fascinating insight into optical illusions and the mysteries of physics, making it a must-visit for curious minds.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average 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	Slightly Low	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	Average	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Cruz

Flying into Santa Cruz is convenient with three major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 77.2km away, with luxury hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco, Taj Campton Place, and Palace Hotel all offering transportation services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 45.1km away, featuring excellent accommodations such as the Shashi Hotel Mountain View and Santa Clara Marriott, both providing easy access to the airport. Lastly, OAKland International Airport (OAK) is 83.7km distant, with top options like Claremont Resort & Club and 1 Hotel San Francisco, also ensuring nearby transport services for guests.