Find the right hotel in Santa Cruz

Top-rated hotels, great locations, and flexible options for every kind of trip.

Check-in
7 Sept 2026
Check-out
8 Sept 2026
Guests
2 guests

Adults:

2

Children:

0

Welcome to Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz invites you to explore its stunning coastline, vibrant boardwalk, and lush redwood forests. Enjoy surfing the iconic waves, indulging in local cuisine, and discovering unique shops. Experience the charm and adventure waiting for you in Santa Cruz-plan your visit today!

Luxury hotels near Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk with ocean views

This selection is ideal for travelers seeking an upscale coastal retreat close to Santa Cruz's iconic boardwalk. These hotels combine beachfront or near-beach locations with premium amenities like rooftop pools, spa services, ocean-view rooms, and refined dining to deliver a complete luxury experience.

La Bahia Hotel & Spa

La Bahia Hotel & Spa

Superb (117 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 484 $ avg/night
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Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Fabulous (743 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 439 $ avg/night
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Casablanca Inn On The Beach

Casablanca Inn On The Beach

Very Good (1965 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 125 $ avg/night
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Beach Street Inn And Suites

Beach Street Inn And Suites

Superb (1329 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 279 $ avg/night
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West Cliff Inn, A Four Sisters Inn

West Cliff Inn, A Four Sisters Inn

Fabulous (240 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 299 $ avg/night
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Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Good (512 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 192 $ avg/night
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Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Good (232 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 199 $ avg/night
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Rio Vista Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Rio Vista Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Very Good (783 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 79 $ avg/night
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Pacific Blue Inn

Pacific Blue Inn

Fabulous (335 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 159 $ avg/night
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Romantic boutique hotels for a coastal escape in Santa Cruz

Perfect for couples seeking an intimate coastal retreat with character and charm. These properties offer romantic themes, sea views, fireplace rooms, and walkable access to beaches and waterfront dining.

Sea & Sand Inn

Sea & Sand Inn

Fabulous (262 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 354 $ avg/night
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The Babbling Brook Inn

The Babbling Brook Inn

Fabulous (140 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 209 $ avg/night
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Cliff Crest Bed And Breakfast Inn

Cliff Crest Bed And Breakfast Inn

Decent (1 review)

Santa Cruz

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The Inn At Pasatiempo

The Inn At Pasatiempo

Good (406 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 139 $ avg/night
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Harbor Inn

Harbor Inn

Fabulous (35 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 119 $ avg/night
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Bella Notte Inn

Bella Notte Inn

Superb (296 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 244 $ avg/night
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Boca Del Cielo Inn

Santa Cruz

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Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz By Ihg

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz By Ihg

Very Good (593 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 100 $ avg/night
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Best family-friendly hotels near Seymour Marine Discovery Center

Families visiting the Seymour Marine Discovery Center will find these hotels ideal for combining marine education with comfortable, relaxed stays. Each property offers family rooms, kid-friendly amenities like pools, free parking, and easy access to Santa Cruz's top coastal attractions.

Mission Inn

Mission Inn

Very Good (824 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 114 $ avg/night
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Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, Ca

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, Ca

Good (229 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 216 $ avg/night
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Fairfield Inn & Suites By Marriott Santa Cruz

Fairfield Inn & Suites By Marriott Santa Cruz

Fabulous (205 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 216 $ avg/night
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Hampton Inn Santa Cruz

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz

Fabulous (206 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 219 $ avg/night
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Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Fabulous (712 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 127 $ avg/night
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Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Good (733 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 94 $ avg/night
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Best Western Plus All Suites Inn

Best Western Plus All Suites Inn

Good (309 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 134 $ avg/night
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Surf City Inn & Suites

Surf City Inn & Suites

Pleasant (1629 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 77 $ avg/night
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The Aqua Pacific Hotel

The Aqua Pacific Hotel

Good (733 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 114 $ avg/night
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Popular Areas in Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz

Ideal for first-time visitors. Enjoy easy access to shops, dining, and the main sights of Santa Cruz.

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Cowell Beach

Perfect for beach lovers seeking convenient access to sand, surf, and waterfront activities right outside your door.

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Westside Santa Cruz

A laid-back area for surfers and foodies, offering unique shops, breweries, and proximity to Steamer Lane.

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Santa Cruz Boardwalk

Best for families and thrill-seekers, this classic amusement park offers rides and entertainment directly on the beach.

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Mid-range hotels within walking distance of Santa Cruz Wharf

Perfect for travelers who want convenient access to Santa Cruz Wharf without overspending on accommodations. These hotels offer comfortable rooms, practical amenities like free WiFi and parking, and are close enough to the wharf and boardwalk to explore on foot.

Seaway Inn

Seaway Inn

Fabulous (146 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 99 $ avg/night
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Howard Johnson By Wyndham Santa Cruz

Howard Johnson By Wyndham Santa Cruz

Good (1020 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 108 $ avg/night
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La Quinta Inn & Suites By Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites By Wyndham Santa Cruz

Fabulous (1231 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 255 $ avg/night
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Super 8 By Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach

Super 8 By Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach

Good (366 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 75 $ avg/night
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Bay Front Inn

Bay Front Inn

Good (1213 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 100 $ avg/night
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Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk

Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk

Good (1197 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 81 $ avg/night
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Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Very Good (1010 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 109 $ avg/night
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Beachview Inn

Beachview Inn

Good (416 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 60 $ avg/night
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Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel

Fabulous (889 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 199 $ avg/night
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Comfort Inn Beach Boardwalk

Comfort Inn Beach Boardwalk

Good (480 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 328 $ avg/night
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Best budget hotels near UC Santa Cruz for families and academics

Perfect for families on campus visits and academics attending conferences or research stays at UC Santa Cruz, these hotels offer practical comfort without stretching the budget. Expect free parking, free WiFi, family rooms, and convenient access to the university and downtown Santa Cruz.

Best Western Inn Santa Cruz

Best Western Inn Santa Cruz

Good (171 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 144 $ avg/night
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Surestay Hotel By Best Western Santa Cruz

Surestay Hotel By Best Western Santa Cruz

Pleasant (381 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 179 $ avg/night
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Hitching Post Studios Inn

Hitching Post Studios Inn

Fabulous (418 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 75 $ avg/night
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Motel Santa Cruz

Motel Santa Cruz

Decent (318 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 196 $ avg/night
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Quality Inn Santa Cruz Downtown Area

Quality Inn Santa Cruz Downtown Area

Good (104 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 72 $ avg/night
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Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Good (521 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 72 $ avg/night
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Drift Inn, Llc

Drift Inn, Llc

Good (778 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 65 $ avg/night
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Carousel Beach Inn

Carousel Beach Inn

Fabulous (1762 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 109 $ avg/night
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Surf-culture stays near West Cliff Drive with style

This selection is ideal for surfer culture enthusiasts who want a base close to the waves and the iconic coastal scenery of West Cliff Drive. These properties combine easy beach and boardwalk access with character-rich settings, outdoor spaces, and the laid-back Santa Cruz vibe that surfers and ocean lovers seek.

Cliff Crest Inn

Cliff Crest Inn

Very Good (3 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 345 $ avg/night
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Edgewater Beach Inn

Edgewater Beach Inn

Very Good (249 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 309 $ avg/night
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Hotel Solares

Hotel Solares

Good (1513 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 160 $ avg/night
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Continental Inn

Continental Inn

Good (541 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 239 $ avg/night
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Santa Cruz Hostel

Santa Cruz Hostel

Superb (160 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 40 $ avg/night
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Ocean Gate Inn

Ocean Gate Inn

Good (232 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 126 $ avg/night
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Aqua Breeze Inn

Aqua Breeze Inn

Good (938 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 149 $ avg/night
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Fireside Inn By The Beach Boardwalk & Bowling

Fireside Inn By The Beach Boardwalk & Bowling

Good (410 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 59 $ avg/night
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Browse by accommodation type

Quiet retreat hotels near Natural Bridges State Beach with spa

This selection is ideal for travelers seeking a restorative escape close to the serene coastal scenery of Natural Bridges State Beach. These hotels offer spa facilities, wellness amenities, and peaceful atmospheres that make it easy to unwind after a day exploring the shoreline.

Courtyard By Marriott Santa Cruz

Courtyard By Marriott Santa Cruz

Very Good (445 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 419 $ avg/night
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Edgewater Beach Inn & Suites

Edgewater Beach Inn & Suites

Good (260 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 209 $ avg/night
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Salt Air Lodge

Salt Air Lodge

Good (364 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 192 $ avg/night
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Bay Front Inn - Downtown Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz

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Seaside Inn & Suites

Seaside Inn & Suites

Good (1126 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 145 $ avg/night
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The Midtown Cottage- W/ Private Entrance And Views

The Midtown Cottage- W/ Private Entrance And Views

Superb (49 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 162 $ avg/night
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Tranquil Mountain Retreat In Santa Cruz

Tranquil Mountain Retreat In Santa Cruz

Fabulous (8 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 453 $ avg/night
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Affordable hotels near downtown Santa Cruz with easy access

This selection is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore downtown Santa Cruz without overspending on accommodations. These motels and inns offer free parking, free WiFi, and convenient positioning near the city center and its popular attractions.

Islander Motel Santa Cruz Ca

Islander Motel Santa Cruz Ca

Very Good (274 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 72 $ avg/night
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Capri Motel Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Capri Motel Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Pleasant (310 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 68 $ avg/night
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Motel 6 Santa Cruz, Ca

Motel 6 Santa Cruz, Ca

Santa Cruz

from 132 $ avg/night
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National 9 Motel

National 9 Motel

Very Good (637 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 89 $ avg/night
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Oceana Inn Santa Cruz (Adults Only)

Oceana Inn Santa Cruz (Adults Only)

Pleasant (705 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 59 $ avg/night
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Super 8 Santa Cruz/Beach Boardwalk West

Super 8 Santa Cruz/Beach Boardwalk West

Pleasant (130 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 70 $ avg/night
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Romantic hotels near Santa Cruz Harbor with waterfront dining

This selection is ideal for couples seeking a memorable honeymoon experience along the Santa Cruz coastline. These properties offer beachfront access, scenic ocean views, and proximity to waterfront dining options that set the stage for a romantic getaway.

Beach Lodge

Beach Lodge

Superb (26 reviews)

Santa Cruz

from 340 $ avg/night
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Nighttime snacks by the pool

I ate hot popcorn and cooled off with snow cones in the afternoon before I relaxed in the heated pool and spa. My room included a full kitchen and a large shower, plus I watched the sunset over the ocean from my private veranda.

A
Alex A. United States · 3 nights nights · Single · 3 May 2026 Stayed at Beach Street Inn And Suites
9.7
Verified guest Very Good
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

Private hot tub on the deck

I stayed in a cottage studio that featured a private hot tub on the deck. After I watched the sunrise over the water from my room, I enjoyed a breakfast that included bacon and country potatoes. Every afternoon, I sampled the warm cookies kept at the front desk.

L
Linda L. United States · 1 night nights · Couple · 17 March 2026 Stayed at Sea & Sand Inn
9.7
Verified guest Exceptional
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

Private parking at the Victorian mansion

Each room featured a designated parking spot at this Victorian mansion. I enjoyed the afternoon wine and cheese reception after returning from the nearby wharf, and I later relaxed in the hot tub in my room. Every morning, I ate a hot quiche in the dining hall while looking out at the ocean.

J
James J. United States · 1 night nights · Couple · 20 June 2026 Stayed at West Cliff Inn, A Four Sisters Inn
9.6
Verified guest Very Good
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

Ocean views from the sauna

I lounged in the dry sauna on the sixth floor with an expansive view over the ocean. After my session, I relaxed on the rooftop deck with its heat lamps and comfortable chairs. My suite featured a balcony with a fire pit, and I enjoyed the complimentary wine and local snacks provided in my room throughout my stay.

K
Kurt K. United States · 4 nights nights · Couple · 17 July 2026 Stayed at La Bahia Hotel & Spa
10.0
Verified guest Exceptional
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

Antique furnishings in the bedroom

I slept in a room decorated with beautiful antiques. After parking my car in the gated lot, I walked to the harbor cafe.

R
Ralph R. United States · 3 nights nights · Single · 5 November 2025 Stayed at Harbor Inn
9.6
Verified guest Very Good
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

Coffee delivered by pulley in the canopy

I retrieved my morning coffee using the pulley at the treehouse while I sat by the fireplace. I walked through redwood columns to reach the outdoor shower before I joined the multi-course breakfast in the farmhouse. I also enjoyed the bar in the evenings where I helped myself to the liquors.

B
Bob. B. United States · 4 nights nights · Couple · 24 May 2026 Stayed at Flipjack Ranch
10.0
Verified guest Exceptional
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

Three private washrooms for the family

My family used the three bathrooms inside our two-bedroom house, with one designated for guests in the living room. We grabbed the beach chairs and umbrellas stored on-site before we walked to Twins Lakes State Beach. I used the kitchen K-cups every morning while we watched the three huge TVs.

E
Elizabeth E. United States · 5 nights nights · Family With Children · 13 November 2025 Stayed at Beach Lodge
9.7
Verified guest Exceptional
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

Morning drinks on the terrace

I drank coffee on the private terrace every morning while I looked at the view. I stored leftovers in the mini fridge after I ate at nearby restaurants. I found plates and cutlery in the studio for my meals.

K
Katherine K. United States · 3 nights nights · Couple · 19 July 2026 Stayed at The Midtown Cottage- W/ Private Entrance And Views
10.0
Verified guest Exceptional
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

Hot tub access on the fourth floor

I soaked in the fourth-floor hot tub after walking to the nearby Natural Bridges State Park to see the annual butterfly migration. My suite included a balcony with a distant view of the ocean, where I watched the sunset each evening. I also grabbed complimentary coffee from the lobby, which stayed available around the clock throughout my entire stay.

M
Michael M. United States · 3 nights nights · Single · 22 March 2026 Stayed at Fairfield Inn & Suites By Marriott Santa Cruz
9.7
Verified guest Very Good
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

Evening fire in the garden

I sat by the fire in the garden with management and neighbours while free coffee stayed available in the kitchen. My sleeping quarters occupied one of the little cottages spread across the grounds.

K
Katherine K. United States · 1 night nights · Single · 24 March 2026 Stayed at Santa Cruz Hostel
9.4
Verified guest Very Good
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

Vehicle visibility from my third floor room

I parked my car in the lot while I stayed in room 317, which kept the vehicle within sight from my window. After I woke up, I ate a breakfast of oatmeal and waffles in the common area. I also swam in the indoor heated pool during my visit.

A
Alfred A. United States · 3 nights nights · Single · 1 March 2026 Stayed at Hampton Inn Santa Cruz
9.7
Verified guest Very Good
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

Late night conversations by the fire pit

I parked my vehicle in the covered, gated garage while I stayed here for three nights. In the evenings, I sat by the fire pit on the rooftop deck. I ate breakfastwith bacon and made-to-order waffles, before I walked one block to the beach.

D
Donald D. United States · 3 nights nights · Single · 16 January 2026 Stayed at La Quinta Inn & Suites By Wyndham Santa Cruz
9.7
Verified guest Very Good
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

Direct beach access from the pool

I walked through the pool area after my morning beach walks and used the foot showers to rinse the sand. My room had a private balcony where I listened to the waves crashing while I slept. I also enjoyed Verve coffee from the lobby cart and breakfast at Jack O'Neill Restaurant.

J
Jeff J. United States · 2 nights nights · Couple · 8 December 2025 Stayed at Dream Inn Santa Cruz
9.0
Verified guest Very Good
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

Heated pool and hot tub access

I swam in the heated pool and used the hot tub after my day in Santa Cruz. The room was spacious and held a large sofa bed for my stay. Breakfast was served in the lobby between seven and ten, with hot scrambled eggs and coffee. I parked my car with the valet attendants, who kept the underground garage entry quick.

T
Thomas T. United States · 1 night nights · Single · 20 December 2025 Stayed at Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
9.7
Verified guest Very Good
  • Verified bookings only
  • Reviewed within 7 days of stay
  • No paid placements, ever

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