A colorful coastal town with a sandy beach and a calm sea.

Luxury Hotels & Resorts in Santa Cruz from AU$168

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Check availability on Santa Cruz Luxury Hotels

Next weekend
13 Nov - 15 Nov
In two weeks
20 Nov - 22 Nov

Our top choices for Santa Cruz luxury hotels

A wooden interior with large windows overlooking a beach.

1. La Bahia Hotel and Spa

La Bahia Hotel and Spa
4.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (599 reviews)
"amazing stay"
United States
Devin
The price is AU$476
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
La Bahia Hotel and Spa
A coastal building with a wooden door, numbered 118, adjacent to a beach with palm trees and a clear sky.

2. Edgewater Beach Inn

Edgewater Beach Inn
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (74 reviews)
"Very convenient to the boardwalk and downtown."
United States
Marlene
The price is AU$168
includes taxes & fees
19 Nov - 20 Nov
Edgewater Beach Inn
A modern lobby with a wooden floor, seating area, large windows, and a plant.

3. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,364 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$199
includes taxes & fees
1 Dec - 2 Dec
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
A beach with palm trees, waves, and a distant shoreline with buildings.

4. Seaway Inn

Seaway Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (328 reviews)
"Great location, clean perfect stay"
United States
Myla
The price is AU$201
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Seaway Inn
A large, two-story building with a balcony and a porch, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn.

5. West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn
3.5 star property
Westside 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$273
includes taxes & fees
16 Nov - 17 Nov
West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn
An outdoor seating area with fire pits and string lights, surrounded by a building with multiple windows and a palm tree.

6. Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"Room was clean and the breakfast was great!"
United States
Alissa
The price is AU$223
includes taxes & fees
11 Nov - 12 Nov
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
A building with a yellow facade, a covered outdoor area with a palm tree, and a large flowering bush.

7. Mission Inn

Mission Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,008 reviews)
"I will stay there again"
United States
Judy
The price is AU$161
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Mission Inn
A beach view with a sign for Marea Sol Hotel, palm trees, and a pier with boats.

8. Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,652 reviews)
"The view was great and our stay was great."
United States
Jacqueline
The price is AU$179
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Marea Sol Hotel
A covered outdoor seating area with stone pillars, a metal fence, and a table with chairs.

9. Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (726 reviews)
"Overall it was nice but I was in the street side and it was very loud, had to use white noise to sleep. Otherwise it was a nice room."
United States
Nicole
The price is AU$180
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA
A courtyard with stone flooring, wooden benches, potted plants, and a fire pit.

10. Pacific Blue Inn

Pacific Blue Inn
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (961 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$155
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Pacific Blue Inn
An outdoor seating area with round tables and chairs, string lights overhead, and a large tree in the center.

11. Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
4.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,364 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Oleg
The price is AU$197
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
A hot tub with a metal ladder, surrounded by greenery and a concrete deck.

12. Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,552 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$141
includes taxes & fees
6 Dec - 7 Dec
Ocean Pacific Lodge
A spacious living area with a fireplace, comfortable seating, and a view of the outdoors.

13. Inn At Pasatiempo

Inn At Pasatiempo
2.5 star property
Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
"Great location"
United States
AMY
The price is AU$214
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Inn At Pasatiempo
A Courtyard by Marriott hotel with outdoor seating, a fire pit, and potted plants.

14. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,188 reviews)
"Great location."
United States
Anita
The price is AU$184
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
A hotel room with a large bed, a bathroom with a bathtub, and a wooden floor.

15. Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,353 reviews)
"Very clean rooms, helpful staff and good breakfast"
United States
Kathy
The price is AU$134
includes taxes & fees
6 Dec - 7 Dec
Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North
A modern hotel room with a kitchenette, a bed, a desk, and a view of the outdoors.

16. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,302 reviews)
"Would stay again. Amazing staff."
United States
Sarika
The price is AU$210
includes taxes & fees
24 Nov - 25 Nov
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG
A street view with a building featuring a pink fence, a tree, and parked cars.

17. Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Great location !! , friendly staff clean room"
United States
Christine
The price is AU$110
includes taxes & fees
8 Dec - 9 Dec
Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz
A hotel room with a bed, bedside tables, a chair, and a desk.

18. Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Islander Motel Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,030 reviews)
"Great place to staying!"
United States
LI
The price is AU$110
includes taxes & fees
8 Dec - 9 Dec
Islander Motel Santa Cruz
A landscaped garden with palm trees, flowering shrubs, and a gravel path.

19. Hitching Post Studios Inn

Hitching Post Studios Inn
2.0 star property
Eastside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (496 reviews)
"Easy parking"
United States
Christian
The price is AU$129
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Hitching Post Studios Inn
An outdoor deck with wicker furniture and a large umbrella, overlooking a beach and pier.

20. Casablanca On The Beach

Casablanca On The Beach
3.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,284 reviews)
"Good place to stay right next to the beach and food!!"
United States
Harjeet
The price is AU$236
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
Casablanca On The Beach
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.
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Find out more about Santa Cruz

Santa Cruzand its attractions for luxury travelers

Santa Cruz, California, offers a blend of natural beauty and luxury experiences that will captivate discerning travellers. Begin your exploration at the stunning Natural Bridges State Beach, where you can relax on golden sands while enjoying breathtaking views of the iconic natural rock arch. For a touch of sophistication, visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, which showcases local culture and art, providing a perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon. Adventure seekers can indulge in a private sailing tour of Monterey Bay, where you might spot playful sea otters and majestic whales. If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, the upscale boutiques and artisan shops in the charming downtown area offer unique finds, from handcrafted jewellery to fine clothing. After a day of exploration, unwind at luxury hotels nestled along West Cliff Drive, such as the Chaminade Resort & Spa, where you can enjoy serene views of the ocean, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, and relish exquisite dining options. This area provides a perfect base for both relaxation and adventure, ensuring a memorable stay.

Find the best luxury hotels and resorts in Santa Cruz

For those looking to indulge in a luxurious stay in Santa Cruz, a selection of exceptional hotels awaits. Each hotel combines elegance with top amenities to ensure an unforgettable experience.

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

  • Why it's great for a luxury retreat: Dream Inn Santa Cruz is the epitome of luxury with a review rating of 9.2, offering travelers a stunning beachfront location and an array of premium amenities. The heated pool, poolside bar, and exclusive champagne service elevate the relaxation experience, while the restaurant with ocean views ensures a memorable dining experience for travelers.
  • Other amenities: Guests can enjoy a cozy fireplace in select rooms, climate control, and room service for added comfort. The hotel also features valet parking, a concierge service, and a resort structure that invites unforgettable beachside relaxation. With options for outdoor lounging, including sun loungers and umbrellas, travelers are sure to find their perfect spot to unwind.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.2 km, Cowell's Beach - 0 km, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.1 km

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

  • Why it's great for a luxury retreat: Hotel Paradox stands out with a review rating of 8.6, offering chic accommodations and top-tier amenities for luxury travellers. The on-site poolside bar, designer toiletries, and concierge service ensure that every need is met while enjoying the stylish surroundings of this Autograph Collection hotel.
  • Other amenities: Guests will appreciate the outdoor pool with cabanas, a fitness centre open 24 hours, and a rooftop garden for leisurely strolls. Additional features include a hot tub, snack bar, and self-parking. The presence of suites adds an extra layer of comfort, perfect for those wanting to unwind in style.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.9 km, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 1.9 km, Ocean Street - 0.6 km

Casablanca On The Beach

  • Why it's great for a luxury retreat: Casablanca On The Beach offers a unique blend of luxury and comfort with a review rating of 8.6. Guests are greeted with elegant rooms that feature a fireplace and concierge service, making it a perfect haven for travellers seeking an upscale experience by the sea.
  • Other amenities: The hotel boasts air conditioning for optimal comfort, along with a terrace and patio for outdoor relaxation. Located near the beach and historical district, travelers can easily venture out for windsurfing or kayaking. Self-parking is available, and additional features like ocean views enhance the overall experience.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.5 km, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0 km, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.4 km

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

  • Why it's great for a luxury retreat: With a review rating of 8.2, Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley provides a luxurious stay with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel features premium bedding and designer toiletries, ensuring that travelers enjoy both comfort and sophistication during their stay.
  • Other amenities: Travelers can unwind by the outdoor pool or rejuvenate in the hot tub, while the concierge service is on hand to assist with local information and reservations. Additional features include climate control, a terrace for relaxing evenings, and 24-hour fitness facilities. Self-parking is also available for convenience.
  • Nearby attractions: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park - 4.5 km, Zip Line - 5.5 km, Pasatiempo Golf Course - 6 km

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

10/10 Excellent
"Great location, pleasant staff."
Teronya 1-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Frequently asked questions

What are the top-rated luxury hotels in Santa Cruz?
Among the top-rated luxury hotels in Santa Cruz, La Bahia Hotel and Spa, Chaminade Resort & Spa, and Dream Inn Santa Cruz are consistently celebrated for their exceptional quality.

The La Bahia Hotel and Spa, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, offers champagne service and a poolside bar. It also provides valet parking, with a secured option available.

The Chaminade Resort & Spa, rated 8.0, is a resort structure featuring onsite outdoor tennis courts and designer toiletries. Customers frequently praise its spacious and clean rooms, as well as the friendly and amazing staff.

The Dream Inn Santa Cruz, with a 9.2 rating, boasts a beachfront restaurant and a heated pool. Reviewers consistently highlight its prime location directly on the beach and the excellent customer service.
Which area of Santa Cruz is best to stay in for luxury hotels?
The best area to stay in Santa Cruz for luxury hotels is along Beach Street, particularly the section directly facing the main beach and the Wharf.

This stretch of Beach Street is the most prominent area for visitors, offering direct access to the main beach and the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf. You'll find a collection of upscale hotels here, many with ocean views and high-end amenities. It's a very walkable area, with the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk at one end and the Wharf at the other.

Couples looking for a relaxing and convenient getaway will find this area particularly appealing. The proximity to the beach means easy access for strolls along the sand, and many hotels offer rooms with balconies overlooking the ocean. Dining options, from casual to more refined, are plentiful along Beach Street and on the Wharf itself, making evening plans effortless.

Families with older children might also enjoy this area. The immediate access to the beach and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk provides entertainment right on your doorstep.
Which luxury hotels in Santa Cruz are good for families?
For families seeking luxury accommodation in Santa Cruz, Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley, Chaminade Resort & Spa, Dream Inn Santa Cruz, and La Bahia Hotel and Spa are excellent choices.

The Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, with an 8.6 rating, offers spacious suites and a beautiful outdoor pool area with cabanas and sun loungers. Customers consistently describe the rooms as comfortable and clean, and the staff as friendly and helpful.

The Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley, rated 8.2, features premium bedding and an outdoor pool with complimentary cabanas. Guests frequently praise its comfortable, clean rooms and the friendly, helpful staff.

Chaminade Resort & Spa, a property with an 8.0 rating, provides spacious, clean rooms and amenities such as onsite tennis courts and a poolside bar. Its beautiful location is often highlighted by guests.

The Dream Inn Santa Cruz, boasting a 9.2 rating, is a beachfront resort with a heated pool and a rainfall showerhead in its rooms. Customers frequently praise its location right on the beach and its excellent restaurant.

The La Bahia Hotel and Spa, with an impressive 9.8 rating, offers amenities such as a poolside bar and couples dining options.
What are the best luxury hotels in Santa Cruz with a pool?
For luxury hotels in Santa Cruz offering exceptional pool facilities, consider La Bahia Hotel and Spa, Chaminade Resort & Spa, Dream Inn Santa Cruz, Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, and Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley.

The La Bahia Hotel and Spa, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, features a poolside bar and a resort-inclusive outdoor pool, ideal for guests.

Chaminade Resort & Spa, a property with an 8.0 rating, offers a large pool that customers describe as nice and great, complementing its spacious and clean rooms.

The Dream Inn Santa Cruz, rated 9.2, boasts a heated outdoor pool right on the beach, a feature frequently praised by guests alongside its excellent restaurant.

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, a hotel with an 8.6 rating, provides a beautiful outdoor pool with cabanas and sun loungers, and customers often comment on its comfortable rooms and friendly staff.

The Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley, with an 8.2 rating, offers a lovely outdoor pool with complimentary cabanas and sun loungers, set within a hotel praised for its comfortable rooms and helpful staff.
Which luxury hotels in Santa Cruz are good for couples?
For couples seeking a refined experience in Santa Cruz, La Bahia Hotel and Spa is a distinguished choice.

The La Bahia Hotel and Spa, with an exceptional 9.8 rating, is well-suited for romantic getaways. It offers a poolside bar, dedicated couples' dining options, and champagne service. Valet parking is available and secured.
Are there any top luxury hotels near Monterey Bay?
There are several distinguished luxury hotels near Monterey Bay, including Dream Inn Santa Cruz, La Bahia Hotel and Spa, Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, and Chaminade Resort & Spa.

The Dream Inn Santa Cruz, with a 9.2 rating, is celebrated for its beachfront location, which customers describe as excellent. Reviewers frequently praise the beautiful and clean rooms, as well as the friendly and great staff.

La Bahia Hotel and Spa, an establishment with an exceptional 9.8 rating, offers sophisticated amenities such as Couples Dining and Champagne Service.

The Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, rated 8.6, features a beautiful outdoor pool with cabanas and sun loungers. Guests consistently highlight the comfortable and clean rooms, along with the friendly and helpful staff.

Chaminade Resort & Spa, a property with an 8.0 rating, provides spacious and clean rooms within a resort structure, complete with onsite tennis facilities.
What luxury activities and experiences are there in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz offers several luxury activities and experiences, primarily centred around its stunning natural beauty and high-end culinary scene.

For those seeking an exclusive culinary journey, consider a private chef experience featuring locally sourced, organic ingredients. Many talented chefs in Santa Cruz specialise in creating bespoke menus, often incorporating fresh seafood from Monterey Bay and produce from the fertile Pajaro Valley. This allows for a tailored dining event in a private setting, whether it's at a rented luxury villa or a secluded beachside location.

Wine enthusiasts will appreciate private tours and tastings at the boutique wineries located in the Santa Cruz Mountains. These tours often provide an intimate look at the winemaking process, with opportunities to sample award-winning Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays directly from the barrel, accompanied by gourmet food pairings. Many of these wineries offer stunning views of the surrounding redwood forests and coastline, making for a memorable and picturesque outing.

For a unique perspective of the coastline, consider a private chartered yacht or sailing excursion on Monterey Bay. This allows for an exclusive experience of spotting marine wildlife like dolphins, sea lions, and whales in comfort and privacy. Some charters also offer gourmet catering and opportunities for paddleboarding or swimming in secluded coves.

Finally, for a truly indulgent experience, book a luxury spa day at one of the area's exclusive resorts. These facilities often offer a full range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps, using high-quality, often organic, products.
Can I cancel my luxury hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right luxury hotel in Santa Cruz for you.
How can I save on a luxury hotel in Santa Cruz with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a luxury hotel in Santa Cruz. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards program, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
How much does a luxury hotel in Santa Cruz cost?
Luxury hotel prices in Santa Cruz vary, but you can find a great deal from AU$168 on Expedia. To find the best prices on luxury stays, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Is it cheaper to book a luxury Santa Cruz hotel and flights as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.

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