Santa Cruz Holidays from £1,009

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Your Santa Cruz Holiday

Its laid-back lifestyle, surfing and progressive thinking are among the many reasons to book a holiday package to Santa Cruz. Whatever is taking you to this coastal city, you're sure to have a fantastic experience. You'll want to go sightseeing during your trip to Santa Cruz. Make time for top attractions such as Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, University of California, Santa Cruz and Natural Bridges State Park. Expedia will help you escape your daily routine. Tailor your holiday to Santa Cruz to suit your travel style, whatever that may be!

Top Santa Cruz Flight + Hotel Deals

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Aqua Breeze Inn
CordeValle
Motel 6 Santa Cruz, CA
Hotel Solares
Chaminade Resort & Spa

Where to stay in Santa Cruz

Find the best Santa Cruz areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Santa Cruz

Things to do in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is an ideal destination for outdoor and family beach holidays, featuring a vibrant boardwalk and amusement park for endless fun. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, explore theme parks, and indulge in shopping experiences. With its stunning natural landscapes, Santa Cruz also offers a wealth of outdoor activities, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking adventure and relaxation in the great outdoors.

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, visit the vibrant Pacific Garden Mall for a mix of shops and entertainment, or explore Ocean Street for local businesses and family-friendly spots. For a unique experience, check out Swift Street Courtyard. If you're up for a drive, consider nearby shopping destinations for more variety.

Recreation

Pasatiempo Golf Course offers a stunning setting for golf enthusiasts, surrounded by lush landscapes. Treks and Tracks Rock Climbing Trips provides invigorating outdoor adventures just five miles away, perfect for relaxation and wellness. For a calming experience, Luminescence Healing Haven is a tranquil retreat located eleven miles from Santa Cruz.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Sky Glider at Santa Cruz, where family fun and adventure await in a vibrant theme park setting. For a unique outdoor experience, try the Zip Line, located 9.7km away, offering breathtaking views from the treetops. Don't miss the Boardwalk Bowl for arcade excitement.

Nightlife

Santa Cruz boasts a vibrant nightlife with a mix of beach bars and live music venues. Visit the Catalyst for local bands and dance the night away at the Blue Lagoon. Unwind with craft cocktails at the Crow's Nest while enjoying stunning ocean views.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is perfect for outdoor and family beach holidays, offering a wealth of attractions such as stunning beaches, national and state parks, and amusement parks. Whether you seek a vibrant beach culture or outdoor adventures, Santa Cruz has something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the local area and enjoy various activities that highlight the natural beauty and charm of this Californian gem.

  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: This iconic amusement park offers a delightful blend of family fun and adventure, featuring classic rides, games, and a beautiful beachside location. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in tasty treats while taking in stunning ocean views.
  • Mystery Spot: An intriguing exhibit that plays with perception and gravity, the Mystery Spot provides a unique cultural experience. Guests embark on guided tours that unravel the bizarre phenomena of this mysterious locale, leaving you questioning reality.
  • Wilder Ranch State Park: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this national park boasts scenic trails for hiking and biking, alongside stunning coastal views and historical ranch buildings. Immerse yourself in nature while exploring diverse landscapes and wildlife.

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 slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.7°F (12.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May56.7°F (13.7°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June60.1°F (15.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August63.3°F (17.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September63.9°F (17.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October61.5°F (16.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Santa Cruz

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Santa Cruz.
  • Consider traveling to Santa Cruz during the low season (November to January) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Santa Cruz Beach Holiday

It's time to slow things right down and sit and listen to the sounds of the ocean on a Santa Cruz holiday. Picturesque coastal vistas are there for the taking on a trip to Santa Cruz — Natural Bridges State Park (2 miles away) is the perfect example. It's a great idea to book a hotel close by. If you want more options, many sightseers also book Santa Cruz holiday deals in the vicinity of Rio Del Mar Beach and Seacliff State Beach.

Things You Should Know About Santa Cruz

  • Nothing says holiday more than staying right near the shoreline. If you happen to agree, see what's available among our Santa Cruz beach hotels.
  • Private holiday homes, like 3440 Saint Deyns St House by RedAwning and 770 Via Gaviota Home 3 Bedrooms 3.5 Bathrooms Home, are also popular property types here. Compare prices and amenities and take your pick!
  • Alternatively, let one of our All-Inclusive hotels in Santa Cruz deal with all the little details. That means more time for you to focus on the important task of relaxing.
  • Want to know what Santa Cruz has to offer? It's hard to go past insider knowledge. After you arrive, strike up a conversation with one or two of the 64,200 people who call this place home. Check out our useful Santa Cruz things to do page, too.
  • Save big on experiences by booking our Santa Cruz holiday deals. With major attractions such as Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to discover, this destination will keep you on the go.

Santa Cruz Essential Information

Language
English
Currency
U.S dollars
Closest Airport
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC)
Population
64,200
Max Temp Winter
16ºC
Max Temp Summer
24ºC
Top Sights
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Rio Del Mar Beach and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Top hotels in Santa Cruz

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa

4.5 out of 5
215 Beach Street Santa Cruz CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is £332 per night from 12 Jul to 13 Jul
£332
12 Jul - 13 Jul
includes taxes & fees
9.6/10 Exceptional! (373 reviews)
"Staff not addressing our issues"

Reviewed on 7 Jul 2026

La Bahia Hotel and Spa
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

3 out of 5
550 2nd St Santa Cruz CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is £244 per night from 21 Jul to 22 Jul
£244
21 Jul - 22 Jul
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,339 reviews)
"Todo muy limpio, el personal muy atento. Solamente a la hr del desayuno es un relajo el aria donde para servirte muy pequeña y ay muncha jente. Pero sobre todo excelente."

Reviewed on 6 Jul 2026

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

4 out of 5
611 Ocean St Santa Cruz CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is £187 per night from 26 Jul to 27 Jul
£187
26 Jul - 27 Jul
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,304 reviews)
"The staff were super friendly in the restaurant. The property and common areas were beautiful. Our room was a little smelly and could have used some attention. We would stay again though. It felt safe and convenient to walk downtown and the boardwalk."

Reviewed on 4 Jul 2026

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
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.

Stay near popular Santa Cruz attractions

What to do in Santa Cruz

Frequently asked questions

Why should I book my Santa Cruz holiday with Expedia?
Expedia has you covered for every detail of your Santa Cruz holiday. You'll always land the best deal possible, but when you bundle your accommodation, flights and/or hire car into a holiday package, you'll get even bigger savings. Keen to really make the most of your adventure? Add a few fun tours and activities to your customised package. We offer flexible cancellation policies on most bookings, so there's no need to stress if your plans change. Head over to our Customer Service Portal link to find out more.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Santa Cruz?
If you love the buzz of peak season, head to Santa Cruz in March, April and July. If you want a more relaxed vibe, October, November and December are better times to visit. Arrange your escape to Santa Cruz according to what style of holiday you're looking for. January is the coolest time of year, when daytime temperatures average 11ºC. In August, the warmest period, expect temperatures of around 17ºC during the day.
What are the top hotels for my holiday in Santa Cruz?
Travellers heading to Santa Cruz often stay in Westside Santa Cruz. Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz and Continental Inn are favourites in this neighbourhood. But it's not the only exciting place in town! Pleasure Point is another fantastic area and where you'll find Dream Inn Santa Cruz and Hyatt Place Santa Cruz.
How do I get a cheap holiday to Santa Cruz?
Bundling your hotel and flight with Expedia won't just save you time — it'll save you a few pounds too. A Santa Cruz holiday makes it a cinch to organise the ideal trip. With more than 400 airlines across the world to pick from, finding convenient flights that suit your schedule won't be an issue. Not only that, we have over 321,000 properties globally to pick from. Now that's what you call choice. No matter who you are, Expedia can show you the world. Learn more about how you can save money on your next holiday when you book a flight and hotel together with Expedia.
What should I do on my Santa Cruz holiday?
Make sure your holiday in Santa Cruz is one to remember by taking in its major attractions. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Mystery Spot, University of California, Santa Cruz and Natural Bridges State Park are a few of the things worth discovering while you're here.
What is the best neighbourhood to stay in when on holiday in Santa Cruz?
There are loads of exciting neighbourhoods to stay in Santa Cruz, but Westside Santa Cruz is up there with the best. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is one of the top reasons it's such a hit.
Do I need a visa for my Santa Cruz holiday?
Research the latest information on official government websites. Your nationality and whether you're travelling for leisure, study or business will determine if you'll require a visa for Santa Cruz. Find out about the application process, including the required documentation, turnaround times and fees. Start your application well in advance to allow sufficient processing time. Some visas may take weeks or even months to obtain, depending on the country.
What should I wear on my Santa Cruz holiday?
Do some research into the types of things people in Santa Cruz wear, and maybe even browse style blogs for some fashion tips. Whatever your look, aim to create a versatile wardrobe with pieces that work for your destination and showcase your unique sense of style. Daytime temperatures during January, Santa Cruz's coolest month, average around 11ºC. August marks this city's warmest month when the average reaches 17ºC. Our suggestion? Take the guesswork out of packing and check the weather forecast.
What does an Expedia Santa Cruz holiday include?
Expedia has all you need to lock in your Santa Cruz trip, but what goes into your package is totally up to you. Select from any combination of hotels, hire cars and flights. Searching for some activities or tours to keep you on the move? Once you've made your booking, you can add them too. Whatever your style or budget, there's a package to match your needs. Explore an excellent range of property types and choose one that matches your group size and travel needs. The most sought-after rentals here are private holiday homes and apartments. With Expedia, it's easy to customise your Santa Cruz escape just the way you like.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Santa Cruz holidays?
Expedia has partnered with online lender Klarna to make booking your next trip easier on the purse strings. Paying in instalments means you can spread the costs of your dream holiday, leaving you with more cash to play with while you're travelling. Klarna has several payment plans to choose from, so you're sure to find something that works with your budget. Consider these flexible payment options:

  • Pay monthly holidays: Make your holiday dreams come true sooner with Klarna's easy monthly instalment plans. If paying across multiple instalments works for you, pick this option at checkout.
  • No-deposit holidays: Clicking the "book now" button is easier with this option. With no upfront fee for your getaway, you can Book Now, Pay Later and start packing your suitcase.

Can I choose my airline with a Santa Cruz Expedia holiday?
With a holiday package, you're in charge. Whether you're looking to fly to Santa Cruz in coach or business class, simply choose from the available airline options. Expedia has access to over 400 partner airlines globally.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.