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Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing and water activities, providing an ideal setting for relaxation.
• Vibrant Boardwalk: The lively boardwalk features amusement rides and entertainment, making it a fun destination for families.
• Scenic State Parks: Explore the breathtaking natural beauty of nearby state parks, offering hiking and outdoor adventures.
• Cultural Events: Experience local culture through events like the Cabrillo Festival, celebrating arts and community.
• Charming Downtown: Enjoy the vibrant local scene with shops, eateries, and a warm community spirit throughout Santa Cruz.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Experience the charm of Santa Cruz, California, with a delightful selection of hotels and resorts catering to every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly retreat, a base for business travel, or an adventurous holiday experience, you'll find the perfect accommodation. From the iconic Dream Inn to a variety of other options, Santa Cruz offers a warm welcome for all visitors looking to explore this picturesque coastal destination.

• La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley: La Hacienda San Jose Silicon Valley is an ideal choice for business travellers seeking convenience and comfort, located 37km from Santa Cruz. This hotel features a vibrant, culturally-inspired atmosphere that reflects the rich heritage of the region. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms equipped with essential amenities, a business centre, and meeting facilities, ensuring a seamless work experience. The hotel’s proximity to Silicon Valley also allows easy access to various corporate offices and technology hubs.
• Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell: Situated 35km from Santa Cruz, Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Campbell caters to those looking for a city-themed, pet-friendly stay. This hotel offers spacious suites designed for extended visits, equipped with kitchen facilities for added convenience. The property welcomes pets, providing specific amenities and policies that ensure a comfortable experience for both guests and their furry companions. Its central location places guests within easy reach of local attractions, dining, and shopping.
• Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey: Located 37km from Santa Cruz, Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey is a budget-friendly option with a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10. This motel is particularly attractive to travellers with pets, offering pet-friendly policies that include free stays for certain animals. Rooms are simply furnished yet comfortable, making it a practical choice for those looking to explore the beautiful Monterey area while enjoying convenience and affordability. The motel’s friendly staff and basic amenities further enhance the overall experience.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers a delightful blend of family-friendly beaches and vibrant downtown charm. Visitors can bask in the sun at the stunning Santa Cruz Beach, explore the lively local scene, and indulge in luxury accommodations. With its friendly atmosphere and ample outdoor activities, Santa Cruz is the perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the warm community spirit that makes this coastal gem truly special.

• Capitola: Located a mere 6km from Santa Cruz, Capitola is a charming coastal city that attracts visitors with its picturesque beach views and vibrant atmosphere. The town experiences moderate seasonal tourist traffic, peaking in April and from June to July, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. The bustling boardwalk, amusement park, and recreational areas provide endless entertainment options. Capitola's beautiful beaches and the scenic bay are perfect for sunbathing and water activities, while the local theme park offers family-friendly fun.
• Westside Santa Cruz: Nestled around the Santa Cruz area, Westside Santa Cruz is a lively neighbourhood that welcomes visitors year-round, with peak travel occurring from June to August. Known for its outdoor activities and family-friendly environment, Westside offers easy access to the famous boardwalk and a delightful amusement park. The nearby beach and bay provide ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation. With its educational venues and scenic spots, Westside Santa Cruz is perfect for those seeking an enriching travel experience amidst stunning coastal views.
• Twin Lakes: Situated within the vicinity of Santa Cruz, Twin Lakes is a delightful village that draws seasonal visitors, especially from June to August. Families and outdoor enthusiasts flock to this area for its beautiful beaches and recreational activities. The local amusement park and boardwalk are major attractions, making it a popular destination for those looking to unwind. Twin Lakes boasts lovely family beaches and is close to a theme park, ensuring that there is plenty to keep visitors entertained while enjoying the stunning coastal landscape.

Things to do near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, is a fantastic destination for outdoor family beach holidays, featuring attractions such as an amusement park and a lively boardwalk. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including sunset concerts, thrilling adventures for an adrenaline rush, and the Cabrillo Festival, which showcases local culture and arts. With its beautiful scenery and recreational areas, Santa Cruz promises an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Shopping

For a local shopping experience, visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where you can find unique souvenirs and beachwear. If you're up for a drive, head to the Capitola Mall, approximately 16km away, offering a variety of shops and dining options for a full day out.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at the Santa Cruz Yoga Centre, where you can engage in various yoga styles and meditation classes. Afterward, explore the natural beauty of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, offering serene trails for walking and connection with nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motorsport at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, located 50km from Santa Cruz. Feel the adrenaline as you watch high-speed races, surrounded by stunning landscapes and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of adventure.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Catalyst on Pacific Avenue, where you can enjoy live music performances. For a relaxed vibe, visit the Blue Lagoon, known for its laid-back atmosphere and eclectic cocktails. Don’t miss the local art and culture scene that thrives in the area.

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: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You might find it beneficial to save some money by combining your hotel booking in Santa Cruz with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is perfect for outdoor family holidays, offering an array of attractions such as stunning beaches, scenic state parks, and the iconic wharf. Visitors can delve into local culture while enjoying activities at the pier and exploring various points of interest. With its blend of relaxation and adventure, Santa Cruz provides an ideal destination for those seeking both natural beauty and engaging experiences.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic amusement park, where thrilling rides and classic games come together along the stunning coastline. Enjoy a day filled with outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, making it a great spot for creating lasting memories.
• Mystery Spot: Delve into the intriguing world of the Mystery Spot, a fascinating exhibit that challenges your perception of gravity and space. With its unique cultural vibes, this quirky attraction offers an engaging experience that will leave you pondering the mysteries of the universe.
• Capitola Beach: Just 6km from Santa Cruz, Capitola Beach is a picturesque sandy retreat where you can unwind and soak up the sun. Stroll along the charming village, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and take in the stunning ocean views.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Cruz falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Cruz falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low 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	Average	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	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Cruz

Reaching Santa Cruz is convenient with three major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 77km away, with excellent hotel options such as the Fairmont San Francisco and the Palace Hotel, both 19km from the airport, offering transfer services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 45km from Santa Cruz, with hotels like the Santa Clara Marriott just 5km away, providing easy access. OAKland International Airport (OAK) is 84km distant, and nearby hotels include the Claremont Resort & Club, located 16km from the airport. All hotels offer transportation services to their respective airports for added convenience.