Cheap Hotels in Santa Cruz, CA from $71

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Our top choices for Santa Cruz cheap hotels

Front of property

Mission Inn

Mission Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"We love the location, it’s perfect for when we visit our children who attend UCSC!!"
United States
Roxana
$119 nightly
The price is $137
Mar 18 - Mar 19
Total with taxes and fees
Mission Inn
Two Double Room | Individually furnished, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Beachview Inn

Beachview Inn
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (1,002 reviews)
"Great location!"
United States
shiana
$85 nightly
The price is $97
Mar 18 - Mar 19
Total with taxes and fees
Beachview Inn
Indoor pool, seasonal outdoor pool

The Aqua Pacific Hotel

The Aqua Pacific Hotel
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
7.8 out of 10, Good, (792 reviews)
"Close to everything we wanted to explore, great customer service. "
United States
Charis
$83 nightly
The price is $96
Mar 18 - Mar 19
Total with taxes and fees
The Aqua Pacific Hotel
Terrace/patio

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA
3.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Room was clean and staff where excellent! "
United States
Michael
$140 nightly
The price is $161
Apr 5 - Apr 6
Total with taxes and fees
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA
Outdoor spa tub

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,316 reviews)
"I loved my stay "
United States
Trice
$108 nightly
The price is $125
Apr 12 - Apr 13
Total with taxes and fees
Ocean Pacific Lodge
Beach views

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Dream Inn Santa Cruz
4.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,007 reviews)
"Excellent staff, ocean front rooms great spot for couples or families! Dinner and Breakfast at Jack O’Neill restaurant ocean front views for both wonderful stay!"
United States
Michelle
$279 nightly
The price is $317
Apr 13 - Apr 14
Total with taxes and fees
Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Beach House Suite | Hypo-allergenic bedding, individually decorated, individually furnished

Beach Street Inn and Suites

Beach Street Inn and Suites
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,002 reviews)
"Lovely set up and location. We are already planning our next get away!"
United States
Melanie
$179 nightly
The price is $205
Apr 12 - Apr 13
Total with taxes and fees
Beach Street Inn and Suites
Property entrance

Continental Inn

Continental Inn
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,001 reviews)
"Friendly staff, good location. Good price "
United States
Neemias
$84 nightly
The price is $97
Mar 18 - Mar 19
Total with taxes and fees
Continental Inn
Indoor spa tub

Surf City Inn and Suites

Surf City Inn and Suites
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,007 reviews)
"Room was very clean, staff was great!"
United States
Mark
$61 nightly
The price is $71
Mar 23 - Mar 24
Total with taxes and fees
Surf City Inn and Suites
Signature Room | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, desk, blackout drapes

Torch Lite Inn

Torch Lite Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,005 reviews)
"Such an amazing price for the location!!! Super close to boardwalk and downtown we didn’t even have to drive anywhere! "
United States
Myles
$80 nightly
The price is $93
Mar 22 - Mar 23
Total with taxes and fees
Torch Lite Inn
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

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, is a paradise of affordable fun for budget-conscious travelers. Start your adventure at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where the classic amusement park offers free admission and affordable ride tickets, making it easy to enjoy a day of thrills without breaking the bank. Just a short stroll away, you can explore Natural Bridges State Beach, famous for its stunning rock formations and tide pools, perfect for a picturesque picnic or a day of beachcombing—all at no cost! If you're looking for culture, the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History offers free admission on certain days, allowing you to soak in local creativity without spending a dime. For a unique experience, visit the Santa Cruz Farmer’s Market, where you can sample fresh, local produce and enjoy live music while you shop. When it comes to budget-friendly accommodations, the downtown area is particularly appealing, with a variety of cheap hotels that provide easy access to these attractions. Stay near Pacific Avenue, where you can wander charming shops, grab a bite at affordable eateries, and embrace the vibrant local scene. With so many activities and comfortable lodging options, Santa Cruz is a fantastic choice for families and adventurous travelers seeking memorable experiences without overspending.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Cruz

Travelers seeking affordable accommodations in Santa Cruz will find these five hotels offer great value without compromising on quality. Each hotel features essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay while being easy on the wallet.

Beach Street Inn and Suites

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Beach Street Inn and Suites is a charming budget-friendly option with a stellar review rating of 9.4, perfect for travelers looking to enjoy Santa Cruz's beautiful coastline. With free Wi-Fi and essential toiletries included, guests can relax and enjoy their stay without any worry. The hotel also provides beach towels and easy beach access for sun-filled days by the shore.
  • Other amenities: Guests will appreciate the inviting outdoor pool, hot tub, and daily housekeeping services for added convenience. The hotel boasts ocean views and features a private pool in select rooms for a touch of luxury. With nearby attractions like the boardwalk and hiking trails, Beach Street Inn and Suites is an ideal base for your Santa Cruz adventure.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.2 miles, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.2 miles, Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.28 miles

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With an impressive review rating of 9.4, the Fairfield Inn & Suites is an excellent budget option that ensures guests can enjoy comfort without breaking the bank. Starting each morning right, travelers can savor a complimentary breakfast, which includes both continental and hearty options, while staying connected with free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features a refreshing outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center for those looking to stay active. Guests can easily explore nearby beaches and enjoy exciting activities such as kayaking, surfing, and hiking. Additional conveniences include electric car charging stations, a snack bar, and early check-in options, enhancing the overall guest experience.
  • Nearby attractions: Twin Lakes State Beach - 1.46 miles, Capitola Beach - 0.91 miles, Capitola Wharf - 0.95 miles

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, La Quinta Inn & Suites offers a fantastic review rating of 9.2, making it a top choice in Westside Santa Cruz. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast daily, including delicious continental options, alongside free Wi-Fi, ensuring a pleasant and straightforward start to each day.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include a refreshing outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness facilities, and convenient self-parking options. The hotel features a terrace for relaxation, and guests can take advantage of nearby beach access for sun-soaked afternoons. Other highlights include a snack bar, free toiletries, and a shared pool area, making it a perfect base for exploring the coastal beauty of Santa Cruz.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.12 miles, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.13 miles, Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.21 miles

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With a review rating of 9.2, the Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites is an excellent option for budget travelers in the heart of Santa Cruz. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast that includes both continental and hearty selections, ensuring a fulfilling start to their day, along with free Wi-Fi for staying connected.
  • Other amenities: This hotel features a delightful outdoor pool, hot tub, and facilities for hiking and biking nearby. Other amenities include free self-parking, air conditioning, and family-friendly amenities such as cribs and rollaway beds, making it a versatile choice for all types of travelers. The nearby the beach and local attractions enhances its appeal for those looking to make the most of their Santa Cruz experience.
  • Nearby attractions: Twin Lakes State Beach - 1.55 miles, Capitola Beach - 0.99 miles, Capitola Wharf - 1.0 miles

Marea Sol Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Marea Sol Hotel stands out as a budget-friendly gem with an excellent review rating of 9.2, perfectly situated for travelers looking to explore Santa Cruz. Guests will appreciate the complimentary Wi-Fi and essential toiletries while enjoying the nearby stunning beaches, making it a great choice for seaside escapes.
  • Other amenities: This inviting hotel features an outdoor pool, a rooftop terrace, and ocean views from select rooms. Guests can unwind on furnished balconies while taking in the coastal atmosphere. The hotel also offers self-parking and easy access to nearby attractions, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for all visitors.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.2 miles, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.17 miles, Main Beach - 0.12 miles

How can I get cheap hotels in Santa Cruz?

Best tips to find a cheap hotel in Santa Cruz

  1. If you're looking to travel to Santa Cruz on a budget, you'll be happy to know that you can find hotels for as low as $71. Of course, that price is affected by amenities, star rating, and even the time of year you visit. At most, hotel prices can be as high as $317. Staying a short amount of time in Santa Cruz is an effective way to reduce hotel costs.

  2. When you cut your vacation down to just a few days, you don't have to worry as much about hotel prices since you don't have that many nights to stay. For budget hotels in Santa Cruz, 3 to 4 days should be all the nights you need. That's generally enough to enjoy the city's top attractions, though there's certainly enough to do to warrant a week-long trip.

  3. When booking cheap hotel rooms in Santa Cruz, it's typically best to book about 3 weeks in advance. Book further in advance than that and you could be paying too much for your room, as hotels will often overestimate future demand. However, if you wait too long, you might find that the hotel has been completely booked.

  4. When you utilize search filters on Expedia, you'll be able to narrow down your results in a flash. These search filters cover a wide variety of factors you may be interested in when it comes to finding a cheap hotel in Santa Cruz, including amenities such as Free Breakfast, 2-star rating, or proximity to local attractions. You can even set filters for price limits to ensure that all the displayed results are within your budget.

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

10/10 Excellent
"The restaurant was convenient and I enjoyed what I ordered."
Diana 1-night trip
Posted 5 hours ago
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Santa Cruz as a budget traveler?
For budget travellers seeking excellent value in Santa Cruz, Beach Street Inn and Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, Marea Sol Hotel, and Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites are all highly-rated options.

Beach Street Inn and Suites, with an outstanding 9.4 review rating, offers complimentary WiFi and free toiletries, along with a refreshing outdoor pool. Guests consistently praise its nice, clean rooms and amazing location, which is just a short distance from the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Santa Cruz Wharf.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, also boasting a 9.4 review rating, provides great value with a free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free cribs, making it suitable for families. Reviewers frequently highlight the delicious breakfast and the friendly, amazing staff. It's centrally located near Capitola Wharf and Esplanade Park Beach.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz is a 3-star hotel with a 9.2 rating, offering a free continental breakfast and free WiFi. Travellers appreciate the spacious, clean rooms and the friendly staff. It's conveniently located near the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Mission Santa Cruz.

Marea Sol Hotel, rated 9.2, enhances the budget travel experience with free WiFi and free toiletries. Many rooms feature balconies or patios, some with ocean views. Customers consistently mention the superb location and helpful staff. It is close to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Lighthouse Point Park.

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, with a 9.2 rating, includes free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, which is a significant saving. Guests often comment on the comfortable, clean rooms and the great breakfast.
How much does a budget hotel in Santa Cruz cost?
Budget hotel prices in Santa Cruz vary, but you can find a great deal from $71 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—off-peak and mid-week stays are typically cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Santa Cruz is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in Santa Cruz, areas slightly removed from the immediate beachfront, such as the neighbourhoods near the University of California Santa Cruz or along Mission Street, often present more affordable accommodation options. These areas offer a good balance of value and accessibility to the city's main attractions.

The neighbourhoods around the university are generally quieter and feature a mix of motels and smaller guesthouses that cater to a student-friendly budget. Solo travellers will find that public transportation, including local buses, connects these areas efficiently to the downtown core and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, allowing for easy exploration without the need for a car.

Mission Street, a main thoroughfare, also hosts a variety of motels and budget-friendly establishments. While a bit further from the immediate beach action, these accommodations often provide better rates and still offer convenient access to dining and shopping.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Santa Cruz?
For families seeking top-rated yet affordable accommodations in Santa Cruz, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, and Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North are excellent choices.

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz is a 3-star hotel with an 8.4 rating, offering families spacious and clean rooms along with complimentary WiFi. Guests frequently highlight the friendly and great staff and the nice pool. It is conveniently located near the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Twin Lakes State Beach.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, a 3-star property with an impressive 9.2 rating, provides free breakfast, including continental options, and free cribs, making it ideal for families. Reviewers consistently praise the spacious and clean rooms, the delicious breakfast, and the excellent staff. It is also close to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Mission Santa Cruz.

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, rated 9.2, offers complimentary continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, adding significant value for families. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, the great breakfast, and the amazing staff. This hotel is conveniently situated near Capitola Wharf and Esplanade Park Beach.

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North, with an 8.6 rating, ensures a pleasant stay for families with free breakfast, including continental options, free cribs, and free WiFi. Travellers often praise the comfortable and clean rooms, the good breakfast, and the friendly staff.
What cheap hotels in Santa Cruz offer complimentary breakfast?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz that offer complimentary breakfast, you have several excellent options, including Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, Mission Inn, Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, with an impressive 9.4 review rating, provides a free buffet breakfast and complimentary WiFi. Guests frequently highlight the delicious and good quality breakfast, along with the clean and spacious rooms. It is conveniently located near Capitola Wharf and Esplanade Park Beach.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, rated 9.2, offers a free continental breakfast, including on weekends, along with free WiFi and cribs. Travellers often praise the nice and delicious breakfast, as well as the spacious and clean rooms. This hotel is close to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Twin Lakes State Beach.

Mission Inn, boasting a 9.2 review rating, includes a complimentary continental breakfast and free WiFi. Reviewers often mention the convenient and good breakfast, comfortable and clean rooms, and the helpful staff. It is situated near Natural Bridges State Beach and the University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum.

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, with a 9.2 review rating, provides a free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Guests appreciate the great breakfast and the comfortable, clean rooms. The hotel is located close to Capitola Wharf and Esplanade Park Beach.

The 3-star Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA, rated 9.0, features a complimentary continental breakfast, including a to-go option, along with free WiFi and free self-parking. Visitors frequently comment on the great and free breakfast, the comfortable and clean rooms, and the quiet location.
When is the most affordable time to visit Santa Cruz?
The most affordable time to visit Santa Cruz is generally during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October), avoiding the peak summer months and major holiday weekends. During these periods, you'll find lower prices on accommodations and fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed and budget-friendly experience.

For solo travellers, visiting in late fall or early spring can yield significant savings on lodging, especially at guesthouses and smaller hotels that cater to individual guests. The weather is often still pleasant enough for exploring the outdoors, such as hiking in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park or enjoying the quieter beaches.

Couples looking for a romantic yet affordable getaway will appreciate the reduced rates on charming B&Bs and boutique hotels during these off-peak times.
What are the best cheap hotels in Santa Cruz with a pool?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz featuring a pool, consider Beach Street Inn and Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, Marea Sol Hotel, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, and Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites.

Beach Street Inn and Suites, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers a variety of pool options, including a private heated pool, an outdoor pool, and even sun loungers and umbrellas for ultimate relaxation. Guests consistently praise the nice, clean rooms, excellent staff, and comfortable beds. It's conveniently located near the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Twin Lakes State Beach.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, also boasting a 9.4 rating, provides an inviting outdoor pool. Travellers appreciate the complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, and free cribs, making it a great value. Reviews highlight the clean, big rooms, friendly staff, and delicious breakfast. This hotel is close to Capitola Wharf and Esplanade Park Beach.

Marea Sol Hotel, with a 9.2 rating, features an outdoor pool for guests to enjoy. This hotel also offers free WiFi and complimentary toiletries. Customers frequently mention the superb location, clean rooms, and helpful staff. It's situated near the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Santa Cruz Wharf.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, rated 9.2, includes a shared outdoor pool with secured access. Guests benefit from a free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free cribs. Reviewers often praise the spacious, clean rooms, delicious breakfast, and excellent location. Nearby attractions include the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Mission Santa Cruz.

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, with a 9.2 rating, offers an outdoor pool with secured access. This hotel provides great value with free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Visitors frequently comment on the comfortable rooms, great breakfast, and amazing staff.
Are there any cheap Santa Cruz hotels near Monterey Bay?
Yes, there are several budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz that offer convenient access to Monterey Bay and other local attractions.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, with a 9.4 review rating, stands out for its complimentary breakfast and free WiFi, which are excellent value-adds for travellers. Guests frequently praise the clean and spacious rooms, the delicious breakfast, and the friendly staff. This hotel is conveniently located near Capitola Wharf, Esplanade Park Beach, and the Capitola Historical Museum, with Monterey Bay itself being a nearby point of interest.

Another great option is Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, which has a 9.2 review rating. This hotel provides a complimentary continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, making it particularly appealing for those traveling by car. Reviewers often highlight the comfortable and clean rooms, the great breakfast, and the amazing staff. Its location is close to Capitola Wharf and Esplanade Park Beach.

For those looking for a hotel directly in Santa Cruz with good access to coastal attractions, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz is a 3-star property with a 9.2 rating. It offers complimentary breakfast and free WiFi. Guests appreciate the spacious and clean rooms, the nice breakfast, and the friendly staff. This hotel is close to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, Twin Lakes State Beach, and the Santa Cruz Wharf, making it a good base for exploring the area.
What cheap hotels in Santa Cruz offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz that feature cooking facilities or kitchenettes, consider the Harbor Inn, Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz, and Surf City Inn and Suites.

Harbor Inn, with an 8.6 review rating, provides kitchenettes for convenient in-room meal preparation, along with free self-parking, complimentary WiFi, and free cribs. Guests can easily access nearby attractions such as Sunny Cove Beach and Santa Cruz Harbor.

Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz, rated 8.0 by our customers, also offers kitchenettes, free self-parking, and free WiFi. Reviewers frequently praise the nice, clean rooms and the superb location, with Twin Lakes State Beach and the Santa Cruz Wharf just a short distance away.

Surf City Inn and Suites, with a 7.8 rating, includes kitchenettes or kitchen facilities, free WiFi, and free toiletries.
Which cheap hotels in Santa Cruz have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Santa Cruz with great customer service, travellers often praise Beach Street Inn and Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz.

Beach Street Inn and Suites, with a 9.4 review rating, receives consistent praise for its great reception staff and excellent customer service. Guests frequently highlight the good service overall. This hotel also offers free WiFi and a pleasant outdoor pool area with sun loungers and umbrellas. It is conveniently located near the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and the Santa Cruz Wharf.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, rated 9.4, is highly regarded for its amazing and friendly staff. This hotel provides excellent value with free breakfast, including continental options, and free WiFi. Families will appreciate the availability of free cribs. The hotel is situated close to Capitola Wharf and Esplanade Park Beach.

The 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, holding a 9.2 rating, is known for its good and great customer service, with friendly and great staff. Guests benefit from free breakfast, including continental options, and free WiFi. Free toiletries and cribs are also available. It is located near the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Lighthouse Point Park.

Marea Sol Hotel, with a 9.2 rating, consistently receives excellent reviews for its great customer service and helpful, friendly staff. This hotel provides free WiFi and free toiletries. Many rooms offer the added benefit of ocean views and balconies or patios. It is near the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Twin Lakes State Beach.

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, with a 9.2 rating, is recognized for its good customer service and great, amazing staff. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Free cribs and toiletries are also provided.
Are there any cheap hotels in Santa Cruz that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz are great for handling non-standard arrival or departure times, though specific policies can vary.

The SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Cruz offers early check-in options and provides valuable amenities such as free breakfast and complimentary WiFi. Guests frequently highlight the helpful front desk and comfortable rooms. It is located conveniently near Twin Lakes State Beach and Mission Santa Cruz.

Comfort Inn Beach/Boardwalk Area, with a 7.8 rating, is an excellent choice for both early check-in and late check-out. This hotel also provides free breakfast and complimentary WiFi, and travellers often praise its clean, comfortable rooms and amazing staff. It's situated close to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Santa Cruz Wharf.

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz, rated 7.2, allows for both early check-in and late check-out. Guests can enjoy a free continental breakfast and free self-parking. Reviewers often mention the great location and good service. The hotel is close to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Lighthouse Point Park.

Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, with an 8.0 rating, accommodates both early check-in and late check-out requests. This hotel provides a free buffet breakfast and complimentary WiFi. Customers appreciate the clean, quiet rooms and the friendly, super nice staff. It is located near Twin Lakes State Beach and Santa Cruz Harbor.

The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG, boasting an 8.6 rating, offers late check-out options. Guests can enjoy a free full breakfast and complimentary WiFi. Reviewers often praise the friendly, helpful staff and the quiet, big rooms. It's conveniently located near Mission Santa Cruz and Pacific Avenue.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Santa Cruz with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Santa Cruz. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards program, to unlock discounted Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Santa Cruz?
You have several excellent free activity options in Santa Cruz, allowing you to experience the city's natural beauty and vibrant culture without spending a dime.

Couples and solo travellers can start by exploring the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. While rides have a cost, strolling along the boardwalk, feeling the ocean breeze, and enjoying the lively option is completely free. Just adjacent, Main Beach offers a beautiful sandy expanse great for sunbathing, picnicking, or watching surfers. A walk out onto the Santa Cruz Wharf, the longest on the West Coast, provides stunning views of the coastline, marine life sightings like sea lions and pelicans, and a chance to browse the shops (window shopping is free.).

Further afield, Natural Bridges State Beach is a must-see, famous for its impressive natural rock formations and a monarch butterfly preserve during the winter months. It's a tranquil spot for a walk and offers fantastic photo opportunities. For a more rugged coastal experience, West Cliff Drive is a scenic paved path ideal for walking, jogging, or biking, offering continuous ocean views, surf spots like Steamer Lane, and the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum (admission is free).

For those who enjoy nature and hiking, several parks offer free access. Wilder Ranch State Park, just north of town, provides miles of trails with ocean vistas, historic farm buildings, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Closer to downtown, Harvey West Park has walking trails and open spaces great for a leisurely stroll or relaxation. These diverse options ensure a memorable and budget-friendly visit to Santa Cruz.
Is it cheaper to book a Santa Cruz hotel and flight 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 vacation package.
Can I cancel my budget 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 budget hotel in Santa Cruz for you.

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