Santa Cruz Holidays
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Our guide on where to stay in Santa Cruz
Downtown Santa Cruz
City centre Santa Cruz buzzes with artistic energy along the pedestrian-friendly Pacific Avenue. Street musicians perform beneath towering redwoods while colourful murals decorate brick walls. Visitors can browse independent bookshops and surf boutiques or explore the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History. The area offers easy access to the Beach Boardwalk just streets away. Victorian architecture creates a charming backdrop for the lively café scene. The bohemian atmosphere welcomes travellers looking for authentic California coastal culture without pretension.
Seabright
Seabright offers a charming coastal retreat with golden sands and gentle waves. This laid-back Santa Cruz area blends residential charm with beachside beauty. Locals stroll along the shore while visitors explore the natural history museum and harbour. Discover both the energetic Seabright Beach and calmer Harbour Beach within walking distance. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk sits nearby for those seeking more excitement. Beach cottages in weathered wood and pastel colours create a genuine coastal atmosphere throughout this walkable community.
Westside Santa Cruz
The artsy Westside area brings Santa Cruz's laid-back coastal vibe to life with a creative twist. Beautiful beaches meet bohemian charm along streets lined with craft breweries, surf shops, and independent bookshops. The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum overlooks legendary breaks while Lighthouse Point offers dramatic coastal views. Colourful Victorian cottages and beach bungalows create an eclectic streetscape with ocean glimpses. Natural Bridges State Beach features stunning tide pools and monarch butterfly groves. Locals frequent the same cafes as visitors, preserving the authentic surf culture and artistic community feel.
Eastside Santa Cruz
Explore Eastside Santa Cruz where tree-lined streets weave through a peaceful residential community near the university. Beach lovers can easily access Twin Lakes State Beach and Seabright Beach for sunny days by the water. The area offers a genuine glimpse into local Santa Cruz living away from tourist crowds. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate nearby DeLaveaga Park and Arana Gulch with their scenic hiking trails through coastal scrubland. UC Santa Cruz borders provide access to majestic redwood groves and striking architecture. The hilly terrain rewards walkers with occasional glimpses of beautiful Monterey Bay.
Pleasure Point
Santa Cruz's Pleasure Point is a surfer's paradise where world-class breaks meet laid-back beach town vibes. Watch skilled surfers tackle legendary waves from the East Cliff Drive scenic overlook. The area breathes authentic California coastal culture through local surf shops, beachy cafes, and artistic character. Visitors can explore multiple beach access points including 38th Avenue and Santa Maria's Beach. The Hook draws spectators to clifftop benches while Pleasure Point Park offers grassy areas for picnicking with panoramic ocean views. The area maintains its genuine surf town atmosphere with minimal commercialization.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
What to do in Santa Cruz
Beach Hill to Historic Downtown Santa Cruz Loop
Santa Cruz Walking Tour: Discover Downtown & Mission Hill
Capitola Friday Night Food Tour
Santa Cruz Hotel Deals
"The rooms were nice but had a funky smell that just didn’t go away."
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
"Good value for a nice clean room"
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz"Very clean and nice hotel. Conveniently located near boardwalk "
"Don’t expect anything beyond great location. It states breakfast is included on hotels.com, but that is not included. Lots of stairs, so if needing accommodations contact them beforehand. The walls are paper thin, so we tried to be as mindful and considerate as possible. We loved our stay but based on other reviews our expectations were that of a bare bones Airbnb and not a hotel, and that was pretty spot on. If you set your expectations low, you will love your stay here."
"Trying to list the facts with minimal bias so other travelers know what to expect. Given the substantial price point for this hotel, expectations were high, but the overall experience fell short in several key areas. The Pros: Location: Unbeatable location—right on the street and a 2-minute walk to the boardwalk. The Room: The remodeled suite was updated and visually nice. The Cons: Cleanliness & Amenities: The bed sheets had an unpleasant odor upon arrival and it was obvious that they were...
"We decided to extend our stay at the last minute and needed a hotel. So glad this one was available for my family of 4. The room was clean, it was so close to the boardwalk and the kids loved watching the rides from the balcony! Breakfast is also included which is a huge win for my early risers. We can’t wait to come back!"
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Santa Cruz holiday package cost?
You can pick up a holiday package to this top destination on Expedia. However, how much your holiday to Santa Cruz costs will depend on factors like the length of stay, hotel choice and season.
What are the cheapest months to go to Santa Cruz?
If you're looking to snag a cheap Santa Cruz holiday package, consider planning a trip in December, January and February. You're likely to find better prices on airfares and hotels during these quieter months — ideal for travellers wishing to save money.
How many days is enough for Santa Cruz?
With about 2 days, you'll have plenty of time to experience popular neighbourhoods such as Westside Santa Cruz and Lower Ocean during your Santa Cruz holiday. Remember to also add Natural Bridges State Park and Cowell's Beach to your must-do list. Looking for more adventures? Consider exploring outside of Santa Cruz on tours and day trips.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has everything you need for the perfect break — surfing, cycling and history are just the start. Whether you'd like to check out attractions like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Santa Cruz Wharf, or take the path less traveled, you'll have plenty to do on your Santa Cruz holiday.
How to find the best Santa Cruz package deals?
Start your search for a Santa Cruz package deal by entering your destination and preferred trip dates under our "Packages" tab. Then apply some filters, like "Popular locations" and "Amenities," to tailor the results to your exact needs. You can also sort by "Package discount" and discover offers that come with huge savings. If you don't find the ideal Santa Cruz package deal straight away, just play around with your dates and search again. Keep in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Santa Cruz getaway off to a flying start.
Is it cheaper to book a Santa Cruz holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could score you significant savings when compared to booking flights and accommodation separately. Better still, you can customise your Santa Cruz trip to fit your exact style. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a rental car. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Santa Cruz?
If you've got your Santa Cruz holiday dates confirmed, book early to snap up some outstanding deals. With Expedia, you can generally reserve some flights up to one year ahead of time. Prefer spontaneous trips? Our last-minute deals are perfect for impromptu escapes.
How to plan a trip to Santa Cruz?
- Pick your travel dates: What you plan to do in Santa Cruz and your preferred season can help you decide when to get away.
- Set a budget: Factor in expenses like food, flights and transportation when calculating how much to put aside for your trip to Santa Cruz. Then, choose a property that fits your budget, whether that's a wallet-friendly stay or a high-end retreat.
- Decide how long to go away for: Now that you know more about Santa Cruz, you can figure out the perfect length of your holiday. Pull together a rough plan and give yourself enough time to cover everything you want to do.
- Bundle your accommodation and airfare: Once you've settled on your trip dates and duration, lock in the ideal Santa Cruz holiday package for you.
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Things to do in and around Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, California, is ideal for outdoor family beach holidays, offering a variety of engaging activities. Visitors can enjoy the famous amusement park and boardwalk, as well as explore recreational areas. Kayaking enthusiasts can revel in local waters, while mountain biking and surfing spots cater to adventure seekers. The city is also known for its world championship events, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.
Shopping
For a delightful shopping experience in Santa Cruz, visit Swift Street Courtyard and Ocean Street, both offering a vibrant mix of business and family vibes. If you're up for a drive, Kings Court Shopping Center, located 29.0km away, also provides a great selection of shops and entertainment.
Recreation
Pasatiempo Golf Course offers a stunning outdoor experience with meticulously maintained greens and scenic views, perfect for golf enthusiasts. For relaxation, visit Orchid Beauty & Spa, a tranquil retreat that provides rejuvenating treatments. Eagle Ridge Golf Club also promises an exhilarating day in nature, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of Boardwalk Bowl, an arcadeAdventureZone in Santa Cruz, perfect for family fun. For an exhilarating treeTopWalk, try the Zip Line, located 9.7km from the city, offering stunning views. Lastly, enjoy the Sky Glider themeParkRide in Santa Cruz, blending entertainment with adventure.
Nightlife
Santa Cruz boasts a vibrant nightlife with venues like the Catalyst and Moe's Alley, where live music fills the air. Stroll along Pacific Avenue to discover eclectic bars and cosy pubs, while the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers seasonal fun with its amusement rides and beachside atmosphere.
Find the best attractions in and around Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, California, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a beach holiday. With attractions like the Santa Cruz Wharf, Santa Cruz Island, and the picturesque Santa Cruz Harbour, visitors can indulge in cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. The renowned beaches and nearby national and state parks offer ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation, making Santa Cruz a perfect getaway for those yearning for sun and sea.
- Mystery Spot: This intriguing exhibit offers a whimsical experience where the laws of physics seem to bend. Visitors can explore strange gravitational anomalies and optical illusions, all while enjoying a guided tour that blends science with a touch of the supernatural, making it a captivating stop for the curious-minded.
- Capitola Beach: This picturesque beach is renowned for its colourful beachfront and vibrant atmosphere. Relax on the soft sands, indulge in seaside dining, or partake in water sports. Ideal for families, it provides a charming coastal vibe with stunning sunset views.
- Roaring Camp Railroads: Step back in time on a historic steam train ride through the redwood forests. This unique experience combines culture and nature, offering scenic vistas and an insight into the region's history, making it a delightful adventure for all ages.
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.
Tips to save on your trip to Santa Cruz
- Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
- 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.