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Our top choices for Rio del Mar hotels

Rio Sands Vacation Rentals

Rio Sands Vacation Rentals
2.0 star property
Rio del Mar
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"The rooms are always very clean and staff is very helpful. It's just a short walk to the beach which is a big plus. We have stayed there for the past 3 years, and it's always been great."
United States
Kathleen
$170 nightly
The price is $195
Apr 19 - Apr 20
Total with taxes and fees
Rio Sands Vacation Rentals

Seascape Beach Resort

Seascape Beach Resort
4.0 star property
Rio del Mar
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (947 reviews)
"The room was clean, the staff is great and great amenities. Was a wonderful stay"
United States
Helen
$337 nightly
The price is $383
Apr 19 - Apr 20
Total with taxes and fees
Seascape Beach Resort

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
3.0 star property
16.1 mi from Rio del Mar
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,007 reviews)
"national park and santa cruz boardwalk were close by and the staff were all so friendly, accomodating, and nice!"
United States
Jenna
$95 nightly
The price is $109
Apr 19 - Apr 20
Total with taxes and fees
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

Seaway Inn

Seaway Inn
2.5 star property
7.8 mi from Rio del Mar
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (190 reviews)
"Very clean and great location. Will definitely stay here again. "
United States
Joseph
$120 nightly
The price is $139
Apr 19 - Apr 20
Total with taxes and fees
Seaway Inn

Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa
4.0 star property
6.1 mi from Rio del Mar
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (1,005 reviews)
"The stay was nice "
United States
Michelle
$173 nightly
The price is $194
Apr 26 - Apr 27
Total with taxes and fees
Chaminade Resort & Spa

Fern River Resort

Fern River Resort
3.0 star property
11.6 mi from Rio del Mar
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (494 reviews)
"Great location near park and very spacious cabin. "
United States
Gustavo Gamboa
$118 nightly
The price is $136
Apr 27 - Apr 28
Total with taxes and fees
Fern River Resort

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
7.7 mi from Rio del Mar
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,255 reviews)
"Clean, spacious rooms and very friendly staff. "
United States
Sarojni
$127 nightly
The price is $146
Apr 21 - Apr 22
Total with taxes and fees
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel
2.0 star property
7.5 mi from Rio del Mar
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,480 reviews)
"It was a very wonderful stay for my kids and I. "
United States
Joanna
$129 nightly
The price is $149
Apr 21 - Apr 22
Total with taxes and fees
Marea Sol Hotel

Mission Inn

Mission Inn
2.5 star property
8.9 mi from Rio del Mar
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,011 reviews)
"We love the location, it’s perfect for when we visit our children who attend UCSC!!"
United States
Roxana
$118 nightly
The price is $135
Apr 20 - Apr 21
Total with taxes and fees
Mission Inn

Captain's Inn at Moss Landing

Captain's Inn at Moss Landing
3.5 star property
12.5 mi from Rio del Mar
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (565 reviews)
"I had the harbor master room and loved the charm of the room. The views of Elkhorn Slough were glorious. Bring your binoculars!"
United States
Gwynne
$147 nightly
The price is $164
Apr 19 - Apr 20
Total with taxes and fees
Captain's Inn at Moss Landing

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey
2.0 star property
18.8 mi from Rio del Mar
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (1,791 reviews)
"Great location "
United States
Sahvanna
$59 nightly
The price is $70
Apr 20 - Apr 21
Total with taxes and fees
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages
3.5 star property
5.8 mi from Rio del Mar
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (596 reviews)
"Beautiful stay, great location, clean cottages and accommodating staff!"
United States
George
$179 nightly
The price is $205
Apr 21 - Apr 22
Total with taxes and fees
Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages

Inn At Pasatiempo

Inn At Pasatiempo
2.5 star property
8.1 mi from Rio del Mar
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"I recommend The Inn at Pasatiempo for the clean and spacious rooms, convenient location and wonderful staff."
United States
Michael
$129 nightly
The price is $148
Apr 19 - Apr 20
Total with taxes and fees
Inn At Pasatiempo

Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay

Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay
2.5 star property
20.1 mi from Rio del Mar
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,153 reviews)
"I stay here regularly when visiting family. Location is so convenient and I feel very safe always. Breakfast is awesome too. "
United States
Donna
$96 nightly
The price is $111
Apr 23 - Apr 24
Total with taxes and fees
Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay

Hitching Post Studios Inn

Hitching Post Studios Inn
2.0 star property
6.7 mi from Rio del Mar
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (360 reviews)
"Clean and close to Capitola and Santa Cruz. Would stay here again. "
United States
Dan
$79 nightly
The price is $92
Apr 26 - Apr 27
Total with taxes and fees
Hitching Post Studios Inn

Hotel Los Gatos

Hotel Los Gatos
4.0 star property
18.7 mi from Rio del Mar
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Exceptional hotel, super cool staff and great place to unwind "
United States
Aslam
$158 nightly
The price is $178
Apr 19 - Apr 20
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Los Gatos

Casablanca On The Beach

Casablanca On The Beach
3.5 star property
7.6 mi from Rio del Mar
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,195 reviews)
"clean room.. friendly staff"
United States
Joseph
$140 nightly
The price is $161
Apr 19 - Apr 20
Total with taxes and fees
Casablanca On The Beach

Beachview Inn

Beachview Inn
2.0 star property
7.7 mi from Rio del Mar
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (1,004 reviews)
"Location was amazing! Parking was easy even though at an incline."
United States
Beverly
$73 nightly
The price is $84
Apr 19 - Apr 20
Total with taxes and fees
Beachview Inn

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
4.0 star property
9.3 mi from Rio del Mar
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (1,282 reviews)
"Great stay, place is very nice. Definitely recommend and price was perfect. "
United States
Isabel
$106 nightly
The price is $122
Apr 29 - Apr 30
Total with taxes and fees
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Capitola Hotel

Capitola Hotel
3.5 star property
3.8 mi from Rio del Mar
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (529 reviews)
"Friendly staff clean rooms great location"
United States
Jessica
$225 nightly
The price is $256
Apr 19 - Apr 20
Total with taxes and fees
Capitola Hotel
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.

Where to stay in Rio del Mar

Find the best Rio del Mar areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Seacliff

While visiting Seacliff, you might make a stop by sights like Monterey Bay and Seacliff State Beach.

Aptos Village

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Aptos Village and surrounding area, you can visit Seacliff State Beach and Rio Del Mar Beach.

Top Rio del Mar Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Rio del Mar

Top reasons to visit Rio del Mar

  • Stunning Beaches: Rio del Mar features picturesque beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like surfing, hiking to nearby waterfalls, and exploring state parks.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The area offers a welcoming environment, ideal for families and children.
  • Charming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of hotels, from cozy inns to luxurious resorts, catering to all preferences.
  • Local Culture: Experience the friendly community and coastal attractions that enhance your stay in Rio del Mar.

Find great hotels near Rio del Mar

Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in Rio del Mar, Aptos, California, perfect for your beach getaway. From cozy inns to luxurious resorts, you'll find pet-friendly options and amenities tailored for both adventure seekers and business travelers. Discover the best Rio del Mar hotels, including the popular Rio Sands Hotel, and enjoy a memorable vacation experience along the stunning coast.

  • Motel 6 Watsonville, CA - Monterey Area: Motel 6 Watsonville, CA - Monterey Area offers budget-friendly accommodations, perfect for travelers seeking a pet-friendly experience. Located 6 miles from Rio del Mar, this motel welcomes pets with open arms, making it an excellent choice for those traveling with furry companions. With amenities such as free pet stays and waived fees for service animals, guests can enjoy a hassle-free visit. The straightforward, no-frills atmosphere of Motel 6 ensures a comfortable stay while keeping costs low, allowing you to focus on enjoying your beach getaway.
  • Continental Inn: Continental Inn is another budget-friendly lodging option, situated 7 miles from Rio del Mar. This hotel is ideal for families and pet lovers, offering amenities designed for younger guests, including cribs and various child-friendly services. Pets are welcomed with certain restrictions, ensuring a pleasant stay for all family members. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, the Continental Inn combines comfort and convenience, making it a solid choice for those looking to explore the beautiful coastal area while keeping their loved ones close.
  • Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn: Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn stands out with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, located 18 miles from Rio del Mar. This property caters to pet owners, offering amenities tailored for your furry friends, such as permissible pets, deposit requirements, and service animal accommodations. The hotel provides a blend of comfort and quality, featuring spacious rooms and excellent guest services. Ideal for travelers who prioritize both comfort and the ability to bring their pets along, this hotel makes your stay enjoyable and memorable.

Where to stay near Rio del Mar

Rio del Mar offers a charming blend of beachside relaxation and family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal vacation spot. Explore the beautiful beachfront properties and enjoy the scenic views that characterize this delightful neighborhood. Nearby, the renowned Spa Seascape provides a perfect escape, while coastal attractions invite you to embrace the outdoors. Whether you're seeking romance or relaxation, Rio del Mar and its surrounding areas promise an unforgettable experience filled with friendly faces and stunning scenery.

  • Santa Cruz: Located 8 miles from Rio del Mar, Santa Cruz is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities. This coastal gem attracts family vacationers and adventure seekers alike, with its iconic amusement park and bustling boardwalk. A visit to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a classic seaside amusement park, is a must for fun rides and games. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the nearby beaches and the majestic bay, perfect for a day of sun, surf, and sand. With a lively arts scene and numerous recreational areas, Santa Cruz offers a diverse travel experience year-round, particularly peaking between June and August.
  • Aptos: Nestled within the greater Aptos area, Rio del Mar is part of this charming city that is perfect for those seeking a relaxed beach getaway. Aptos sees moderate seasonal tourism, peaking in April and from June to July. Known for its picturesque scenery and outdoor activities, visitors can explore the stunning beaches and the nearby state park, which offers hiking trails and breathtaking views. Golf enthusiasts will also find excellent courses in the area. Aptos is ideal for a serene vacation experience, where nature lovers can soak in the beauty of the California coast.
  • Capitola: Just 4 miles from Rio del Mar, Capitola is a quaint seaside village with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for families and beachgoers. This city experiences moderate seasonal tourism, with peak visitor numbers in April and during the summer months. Capitola's charming beach and picturesque bay provide an ideal backdrop for relaxation and outdoor fun. The vibrant boardwalk and amusement park nearby also offer entertainment for all ages. With its inviting local shops and delightful eateries, Capitola is a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a quintessential California beach experience.

Things to do near Rio del Mar

Rio del Mar is perfect for an outdoor beach getaway, offering stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Enjoy thrilling day trips to nearby amusement parks, surf the waves, or explore picturesque waterfall hikes. Golf enthusiasts will also find excellent courses in the area. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Rio del Mar has vacation ideas that cater to all tastes.

Shopping

Only a short walk from the beach, you'll discover unique treasures at the Rio del Mar Shopping Center, featuring local boutiques and gift shops. Don't miss the Aptos Village Market for artisanal goods and souvenirs that capture the essence of California's coastal charm.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at Algonquin Dog Park, a luxurious country private club located 22 miles from Rio del Mar. Enjoy serene walks with your furry friend in beautifully landscaped areas, or relax amidst nature’s beauty, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating your spirit.

Adventure

In Rio del Mar, enjoy thrilling water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding along the scenic coastline. Explore the nearby forest trails for hiking adventures, or try your hand at surfing on the picturesque beaches, providing exhilarating experiences amidst stunning ocean views.

Nightlife

Rio del Mar offers a relaxed nightlife scene perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach. Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local seafood restaurant, then stroll to nearby bars for live music and craft cocktails. The warm ocean breeze adds to the laid-back atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rio del Mar

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Rio del Mar 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 around Rio del Mar is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Rio del Mar is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy to choose your budget, desired location, and other preferences. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Rio del Mar hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Rio del Mar

Rio del Mar, Aptos, California, is perfect for those seeking a beach and outdoor vacation. With its stunning beaches, nearby state parks, and beautiful bays, the area offers a range of attractions for every type of traveler. Whether you're looking for relaxation on the sand, adventurous outdoor activities, or a taste of local culture, Rio del Mar has something to make your visit memorable.

  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience the thrill of classic amusement park rides and games at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, just 7 miles from Rio del Mar. With its vibrant atmosphere, it's perfect for family fun, offering everything from roller coasters to arcade games, all with a stunning ocean backdrop.
  • Monterey Bay: Located 12 miles away, Monterey Bay is a breathtaking natural wonder. Enjoy scenic views, marine wildlife, and outdoor activities like kayaking and whale watching. It's the ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation by the beach.
  • Capitola Beach: Just 4 miles from Rio del Mar, Capitola Beach is a charming coastal gem. Known for its colorful beachfront and laid-back vibe, it’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shore.

Best time to go to Rio del Mar

The best time to visit Rio del Mar 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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.5°F (12.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May57.2°F (14.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June61.7°F (16.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July64.0°F (17.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.8°F (18.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October61.5°F (16.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November55.0°F (12.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December50.4°F (10.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Rio del Mar

Traveling to Rio del Mar is convenient with three major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is 53 miles away, with luxury hotels like Fairmont San Francisco and Taj Campton Place, both offering transfer services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is closer at 28 miles, featuring excellent accommodations such as the 5-star Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto. OAKland International Airport (OAK) is 55 miles from Rio del Mar, providing options like the Claremont Resort & Club, which is only 10 miles away and has nearby transport access. Each airport offers a range of hotels with transportation services to enhance your travel experience.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Rio Del Mar?
The best area to stay in Rio Del Mar is along the beachfront near Rio Del Mar State Beach, particularly around the Esplanade and Beach Drive.

This area is the heart of Rio Del Mar, offering direct access to the sandy shores and scenic ocean views. You'll find a selection of vacation rentals and a few local eateries concentrated along the Esplanade. It's a relaxed, beach-focused community with a boardwalk that's great for strolling.

Families will find this area ideal due to its proximity to the beach, which is superb for building sandcastles, swimming, and enjoying the sun. Many rentals offer easy walk-out access to the beach, making it convenient for managing beach gear and young children.
When is the best time to go to Rio Del Mar?
The best time to visit Rio Del Mar is typically between May and October, when the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for beach activities and exploring the area.

During these months, you can expect average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit, with minimal rainfall. This period is great for enjoying the Rio Del Mar State Beach, walking along the coastline, or simply relaxing outdoors. The ocean temperatures are also at their warmest, making swimming and surfing more enjoyable.

For travelers looking to experience the full range of outdoor activities, late spring and early fall offer a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months of July and August.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Rio del Mar.
How can I save on a Rio del Mar hotel booking with Expedia?
With Expedia, you earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible Rio del Mar hotel bookings for every dollar you spend – just join our One Key™ travel rewards program to get started. It's free to join, and you'll unlock our lowest Member Prices as soon as you're signed in. On top of this, you could also save significantly by bundling your hotel and flights together on Expedia.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo.
How much is the nightly rate at a Rio del Mar hotel?
Prices for hotels in Rio del Mar often vary, but you can find a great deal on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

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