A historic building with a distinctive corner turret, surrounded by autumn-colored trees and a clear street.

Downtown Santa Cruz Hotels, Santa Cruz

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Our top choices for Downtown Santa Cruz hotels

1. Pacific Blue Inn

Pacific Blue Inn
3.0 star property
Downtown Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (960 reviews)
"We arrived after hours and self-checkin was super easy. The Inn was lovely and was a great location near downtown."
United States
Sharon
The price is AU$151
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Pacific Blue Inn

2. Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"Room was clean and the breakfast was great!"
United States
Alissa
The price is AU$220
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

3. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Beach Hill - Beach Flats, 1 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,360 reviews)
"Always a great stay! Our second time staying here on our yearly Santa Cruz trip and it was great as always!"
United States
Rosio
The price is AU$196
includes taxes & fees
1 Dec - 2 Dec
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

4. Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
4.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz, 0.6 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,362 reviews)
"a great find when visiting Santa Cruz!"
United States
cindy
The price is AU$202
includes taxes & fees
29 Nov - 30 Nov
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

5. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Beach Hill - Beach Flats, 0.9 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,184 reviews)
"Great location."
United States
Anita
The price is AU$201
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

6. Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz, 1.1 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,643 reviews)
"The view was great and our stay was great."
United States
Jacqueline
The price is AU$177
includes taxes & fees
29 Nov - 30 Nov
Marea Sol Hotel

7. Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
2.0 star property
Downtown, 0.8 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,555 reviews)
"Lovely, spacious , well appointed, clean rooms, professional friendly staff, nice pool and hot tubs, and fantastic location; will definitely be back!"
United States
Tasia
The price is AU$139
includes taxes & fees
4 Nov - 5 Nov
Ocean Pacific Lodge

8. Seaside Inn & Suites

Seaside Inn & Suites
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz, 0.6 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,150 reviews)
"Great value. Clean and convenient! Will stay here again!"
United States
Joe
The price is AU$116
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Seaside Inn & Suites

9. Best Western Plus All Suites Inn

Best Western Plus All Suites Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz, 0.7 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,006 reviews)
"The breakfast was spectacular and the staff very kind and helpful. Great room."
United States
Susan Ortiz
The price is AU$174
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Best Western Plus All Suites Inn

10. Beachview Inn

Beachview Inn
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz, 1 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,006 reviews)
"This is one of my favorite places to stay at Santa Cruz very clean and quiet in the front desk gal is very kind and friendly"
United States
WILLIAM
The price is AU$117
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Beachview Inn

11. Seaway Inn

Seaway Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz, 1.2 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (326 reviews)
"Great location, clean perfect stay"
United States
Myla
The price is AU$181
includes taxes & fees
5 Nov - 6 Nov
Seaway Inn

12. Carousel Beach Inn

Carousel Beach Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz, 1.2 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (198 reviews)
"Great place to stay !"
United States
Deina
The price is AU$127
includes taxes & fees
4 Nov - 5 Nov
Carousel Beach Inn

13. Hotel Solares

Hotel Solares
2.5 star property
Lower Ocean, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
7.0 out of 10, Good, (1,007 reviews)
"The hotel is real cute"
United States
Jessica
The price is AU$126
includes taxes & fees
3 Dec - 4 Dec
Hotel Solares

14. West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn
3.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz, 1.2 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"This place is an absolute gem. Terrific location, charming and with so much attention to the guest’s experience. If I could rate higher than 10 I would."
United States
Molly
The price is AU$280
includes taxes & fees
16 Nov - 17 Nov
West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

15. Edgewater Beach Inn

Edgewater Beach Inn
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz, 1 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (72 reviews)
"Very convenient to the boardwalk and downtown."
United States
Marlene
The price is AU$141
includes taxes & fees
19 Nov - 20 Nov
Edgewater Beach Inn

16. Rio Vista Suites

Rio Vista Suites
3.0 star property
Beach Hill - Beach Flats, 0.8 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Fun funky place would ask for attic room if you go and don’t mind stairs."
United States
Shawna
The price is AU$161
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Rio Vista Suites

17. The Aqua Pacific Hotel

The Aqua Pacific Hotel
2.0 star property
Lower Ocean, 0.7 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,008 reviews)
"Great place to stay for the money. Super clean hotel, friendly staff, excellent location close to everything Santa Cruz has to offer. The pool isn’t heated, but the hot tub is splendid."
United States
Jonathan
The price is AU$116
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
The Aqua Pacific Hotel

18. Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Lower Ocean, 0.7 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Great location !! , friendly staff clean room"
United States
Christine
The price is AU$98
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

19. Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,355 reviews)
"This hotel was clean, well maintained and staff was great! Location was a bit challenging, however we will happily stay again, definitely recommend!"
United States
Bobbi
The price is AU$144
includes taxes & fees
1 Dec - 2 Dec
Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

20. Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Islander Motel Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz, 0.6 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,028 reviews)
"Great place to staying!"
United States
LI
The price is AU$117
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Islander Motel 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.

Compare popular hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
A wooden bench and a small table in a courtyard with potted plants and a building in the background.
Pacific Blue Inn
3.0 star property
9.0
Wonderful
960 reviews
View
Terrace/patio
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
9.0
Wonderful
1,004 reviews
View
A modern lobby with a wooden floor, seating area, large windows, and a plant.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
9.2
Wonderful
1,360 reviews
View
The Ocean Pacific Lodge building with a clear blue sky.
Ocean Pacific Lodge
2.0 star property
8.8
Excellent
1,555 reviews
View
A coastal building with a wooden door, numbered 118, adjacent to a beach with palm trees and a clear sky.
Edgewater Beach Inn
2.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
72 reviews
View

Our guide on where to stay in Downtown Santa Cruz

Find the best Downtown Santa Cruz areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Westside Santa Cruz

Travellers to Westside Santa Cruz praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay.

Eastside Santa Cruz

Travellers come to Eastside Santa Cruz for its beaches, and you can see top attractions like Monterey Bay and Twin Lakes State Beach while you're in town.

Pleasure Point

While visiting Pleasure Point, you might make a stop by sights like Monterey Bay and 38th Avenue Beach Access.

Beach Hill - Beach Flats

While there might not be top attractions in Beach Hill - Beach Flats, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center.

Upper Seabright

While Upper Seabright isn't home to many top sights, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Santa Cruz Harbor are some notable places to visit nearby.

Top Downtown Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Downtown Santa Cruz

Frequently asked questions

What are the best hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz that travellers recommend?
For excellent hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz that travellers frequently recommend, consider the Dream Inn Santa Cruz, Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, Hyatt Place Santa Cruz, and Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz.

The Dream Inn Santa Cruz, with a superb 9.2 rating, is highly praised by guests for its beautiful and clean rooms, friendly staff, and excellent restaurant. Its location right on the beach is a significant draw, and it features a fireplace, a heated pool, and a poolside bar. The Santa Cruz Wharf is just 0.2 km away.

Another great option is the Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, rated 8.6. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, helpful staff, and the beautiful outdoor pool with sun loungers and cabanas. The hotel also offers a poolside bar and designer toiletries. Ocean Street is very close by at only 0.1 km.

The Hyatt Place Santa Cruz, with a 9.0 rating, is known for its spacious and clean rooms, comfortable beds, and helpful staff. Guests particularly enjoy the complimentary buffet breakfast and appreciate the convenient valet parking. It is located 0.5 km from Ocean Street.

Finally, the Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz, rated 8.4, offers spacious and clean rooms and great service from its friendly staff. This hotel boasts an onsite full-service spa with various treatments including deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, and body wraps, as well as a sauna and steam room. The Santa Cruz Wharf is 0.6 km from the hotel.
What are the best family hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz?
For excellent family-friendly accommodation in Downtown Santa Cruz, consider the Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz, Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, or La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz.

The Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz, with an 8.4 rating, offers spacious and clean rooms, some with sofa beds, and complimentary cribs for younger guests. Families will appreciate the pool with a gate and the availability of connecting rooms. It is conveniently located near the Santa Cruz Wharf, just 0.6 km away, and Twin Lakes State Beach, 2.0 km away.

Another great option is the Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, which has an 8.6 rating. This hotel provides comfortable and clean rooms, including suites, and offers connecting rooms and free cribs. The beautiful outdoor pool features sun loungers, cabanas, and a poolside bar, making it a relaxing spot for families. It is situated 1.6 km from the Santa Cruz Wharf and only 0.1 km from Ocean Street.

The La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, rated 9.2, is highly recommended for families. It boasts spacious and clean rooms, sofa beds, and free cribs. Guests can enjoy the pool with a gate and a complimentary continental breakfast. Its location is excellent, being just 0.2 km from the Santa Cruz Wharf and 1.3 km from Lighthouse Point Park.
What are the best spa hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz?
For excellent spa facilities in Downtown Santa Cruz, consider the Dream Inn Santa Cruz or the Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz.

The Dream Inn Santa Cruz, with a superb 9.2 rating, offers a full-service spa that operates daily, along with an outdoor pool and poolside bar for ultimate relaxation. Guests consistently praise its beautiful and clean rooms, as well as its fantastic beachfront location.

Another great option is the Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz, rated 8.4. This hotel features an extensive full-service spa that operates daily, offering a wide range of treatments including body scrubs, deep tissue massages, facials, hot stone massages, and aromatherapy. It also has a sauna and steam room for guests to enjoy.
Which beach resorts in Downtown Santa Cruz do travellers love?
For a highly-rated beach resort in Downtown Santa Cruz, travellers consistently recommend the Dream Inn Santa Cruz.

The Dream Inn Santa Cruz, with an excellent 9.2 rating, is a fantastic choice for those seeking a beachside experience. Guests frequently praise its beautiful, clean rooms and the friendly, great staff. Its location right on the beach is a major highlight, offering ocean views and being very close to the Santa Cruz Wharf, just 0.2 km away. The hotel also features a lovely outdoor pool with sun loungers and a poolside bar, superb for relaxation. Additionally, there is an excellent restaurant on site, and customers often comment on the superb customer service.
What hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz offer free breakfast?
Several hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz offer complimentary breakfast, including La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, Mission Inn, Hyatt Place Santa Cruz, West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn, and Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG.

The La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, with an excellent 9.2 rating, provides a free continental breakfast. Guests frequently mention the spacious and clean rooms, as well as the friendly staff. It is conveniently located near the Santa Cruz Wharf, just 0.2 km away.

Mission Inn, rated 9.2, also offers a free continental breakfast. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms and the helpful staff. This hotel is close to Natural Bridges State Beach, which is 1.6 km away.

The Hyatt Place Santa Cruz, rated 9.0, provides a free buffet breakfast. Travellers often highlight the spacious and clean rooms and the great breakfast. It is situated 1.0 km from Mission Santa Cruz.

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn, a hotel with a 9.0 rating, includes a free full breakfast. Guests praise its convenient location and friendly staff. It is very close to the Santa Cruz Wharf, just 0.1 km away.

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG, with an 8.6 rating, also offers a complimentary full breakfast. Guests frequently comment on the friendly staff and the comfortable beds. It is located 0.9 km from Mission Santa Cruz.
What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz?
For top pet-friendly hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz, consider the Dream Inn Santa Cruz or the Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection.

The Dream Inn Santa Cruz, with a superb 9.2 rating, is highly recommended for its excellent location right on the beach, just 0.2 km from Santa Cruz Wharf. This hotel permits dogs and provides food and water bowls. Guests consistently praise its beautiful, clean rooms and friendly staff. It also features an outdoor pool with sun loungers and a poolside bar.

Another excellent choice is the Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, rated 8.6. This hotel also permits dogs and offers food and water bowls, with suites available for extra space. It is conveniently located just 0.1 km from Ocean Street. Guests frequently highlight the comfortable, clean rooms, helpful staff, and the beautiful pool.

The Ocean Pacific Lodge, with an 8.8 rating, is another great option for travellers with pets, providing food and water bowls. It is well-situated, just 0.4 km from Santa Cruz Wharf. Guests appreciate the great location, friendly staff, and spacious, clean rooms with comfortable beds, along with free and easy parking.

The Continental Inn, rated 7.6, also welcomes pets and offers food and water bowls. It is conveniently located 0.5 km from Ocean Street. Guests frequently comment on the affordable, clean rooms and friendly, helpful staff.

Hotel Solares is another pet-friendly option that specifically permits dogs and provides a litter box. It is located 0.9 km from Santa Cruz Wharf. Guests have noted the spacious, clean rooms and good breakfast and coffee.
What are the top boutique hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz?
For a top boutique hotel in Downtown Santa Cruz, consider the Torch Lite Inn.

The Torch Lite Inn, with a 7.6 rating, is known for its clean rooms and convenient location, making it a good base for exploring the area. Guests frequently praise the excellent and kind service provided by the helpful staff. The inn also offers free WiFi and complimentary self-parking. Furthermore, it has an Art Deco design, providing a unique aesthetic, and is located just under 20 kilometres from Monterey Bay.
What are the best budget hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz?
For budget-friendly accommodation in Downtown Santa Cruz, consider the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz or the Hampton Inn Santa Cruz.

The La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, with a 9.2 rating, is an excellent choice. Guests consistently praise its spacious and clean rooms, delicious breakfast, and friendly staff. It is also incredibly well-located, being just 0.2 km from Santa Cruz Wharf and 1.4 km from the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. The hotel offers free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, and a free continental breakfast, and cribs are available free of charge.

Another highly-rated option is the Hampton Inn Santa Cruz, which has an 8.2 rating. It offers free self-parking, free WiFi, and a complimentary breakfast, including a buffet and to-go options. Guests frequently highlight the friendly and helpful staff and the great breakfast. The hotel is conveniently located 0.9 km from Mission Santa Cruz and 0.8 km from Ocean Street.

The SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Cruz is another good choice, offering free continental breakfast, free self-parking, and free WiFi. Customers have noted the helpful front desk and comfortable rooms. It is situated 0.2 km from Ocean Street and 0.9 km from Mission Santa Cruz.

The Comfort Inn Beach/Boardwalk Area, with a 7.8 rating, also provides good value. It offers free WiFi, a complimentary continental breakfast, and free self-parking. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, the friendly staff, and the convenient location, being only 0.6 km from Santa Cruz Wharf.

Finally, the Best Western Inn, rated 8.0, provides a complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Guests often mention the delicious breakfast, helpful staff, and spacious, clean rooms with comfortable beds. It is located 0.8 km from Ocean Street and 1.0 km from Mission Santa Cruz.
What are the most romantic hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz for couples?
For a romantic getaway in Downtown Santa Cruz, consider the Dream Inn Santa Cruz or the Mission Inn.

The Dream Inn Santa Cruz, with a 9.2 rating, offers beautiful rooms and a fantastic location right on the beach, providing splendid ocean views. Guests frequently highlight the friendly staff and the excellent on-site restaurant, superb for a romantic meal. Many rooms also feature balconies, ideal for enjoying the stunning sea air together.

Another excellent option is the Mission Inn, rated 9.2. This hotel provides comfortable and clean rooms, and guests often praise the helpful and professional staff. It offers a private indoor hot tub, which is a lovely feature for couples seeking relaxation. The hotel is also conveniently located near Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing, just 0.3 km away.
What are the best hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz near Monterey Bay?
For hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz near Monterey Bay, consider the West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn or Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection.

The West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn, rated 9.0, is particularly well-located, being just 0.1 km from the Santa Cruz Wharf and 1.2 km from Its Beach. Guests appreciate the complimentary full breakfast and free on-site parking, making for a convenient stay.

Another excellent option is the Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, which has an 8.6 rating. This hotel is 1.6 km from the Santa Cruz Wharf and 1.7 km from Cowell's Beach. It features a lovely outdoor pool with sun loungers and cabanas, and a poolside bar, great for relaxation.
When is the best time to go to Downtown Santa Cruz?
The best time to go to Downtown Santa Cruz is during the late spring, summer, and early autumn months, from May through October, when the weather is at its most pleasant.

During these months, you'll experience warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall, ideal for exploring the downtown area and enjoying outdoor activities. This period allows you to fully appreciate the nearby beaches and the Santa Cruz Wharf.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find May and early June particularly appealing. The weather is warm and inviting, but the summer crowds haven't fully arrived yet, offering a more tranquil experience. You can enjoy strolls along Pacific Avenue or a quiet dinner at one of the many downtown restaurants.

Families travelling with children will find the peak summer months of July and August to be the most convenient. While it's busier, all attractions are in full swing, and the warm weather is great for beach days.
Can I cancel my 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 to 48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable booking, it might still be possible to receive a refund if you cancel it within 24 hours of booking. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use our 'Fully refundable property' filter during your search to find the right Downtown Santa Cruz hotel for you.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Downtown Santa Cruz with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Downtown Santa Cruz hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Downtown Santa Cruz?
Hotel prices in Downtown Santa Cruz often vary, but you can find a great deal on Expedia. Different factors affect nightly hotel rates, such as the time of year or the days of the week you want to book. To find the best deals for your stay, be flexible with your dates and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.

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