Find kid-friendly hotels & resorts in Santa Cruz, CA from $74

  • Upfront pricing

    Our total price for your stay includes taxes and fees
  • Treat yourself

    Save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with Member Prices
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check availability on Santa Cruz Family Hotels

Our top choices for Santa Cruz family-friendly hotels

Fern River Resort

Fern River Resort
3.0 star property
Felton
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (504 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Family paradise on a private beach with riverside cabins and redwood views. Create unforgettable summer memories.
$124 nightly
The price is $143
May 13 - May 14
Total with taxes and fees
Fern River Resort

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
3.0 star property
Boulder Creek
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,011 reviews)
$93 nightly
The price is $107
May 19 - May 20
Total with taxes and fees
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,380 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Splash into Santa Cruz fun with poolside play, boardwalk adventures, and family comfort just five minutes from the beach.
$97 nightly
The price is $112
May 19 - May 20
Total with taxes and fees
Ocean Pacific Lodge

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley
4.0 star property
Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (1,299 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Family-friendly vacation haven offers outdoor pool, hot tub, and spacious accommodations near Santa Cruz beaches.
$122 nightly
The price is $140
May 20 - May 21
Total with taxes and fees
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley

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, (1,288 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Family adventures await at this freshly remodeled hotel, with a sparkling outdoor pool and boardwalk thrills just minutes away.
$158 nightly
The price is $181
May 19 - May 20
Total with taxes and fees
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Fireside Inn Santa Cruz

Fireside Inn Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
7.2 out of 10, Good, (1,003 reviews)
$63 nightly
The price is $74
May 10 - May 11
Total with taxes and fees
Fireside Inn Santa Cruz

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, (1,196 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Seasonal outdoor pool and free breakfast create a splash for families within a short drive to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
$125 nightly
The price is $144
May 25 - May 26
Total with taxes and fees
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
3.5 star property
Aptos
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,125 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Family paradise with an outdoor pool, hot tub, and attentive staff makes this Capitola Beach hotel the perfect coastal getaway.
$112 nightly
The price is $130
May 17 - May 18
Total with taxes and fees
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea

Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea
2.5 star property
Capitola
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,014 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Quality Inn & Suites Capitola offers family-friendly fun steps from the beach with pool and comfortable accommodations.
$129 nightly
The price is $147
May 12 - May 13
Total with taxes and fees
Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea

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

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites
2.5 star property
Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,006 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Family vacation dreams come alive at this beachside retreat with kiddie pool, hot tub, and fresh cookies daily.
$135 nightly
The price is $156
May 25 - May 26
Total with taxes and fees
Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites
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.

Choose what matters most at family-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz

Family-friendly hotels with free breakfast in Santa Cruz

Family-friendly hotels with pools in Santa Cruz

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.

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Family friendly things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, is a vibrant coastal city that offers a plethora of family-friendly activities that will delight both kids and parents alike. Start your adventure at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a classic amusement park featuring thrilling rides, carnival games, and sandy beaches, perfect for a fun-filled day by the ocean. Don’t miss the chance to explore the fascinating exhibits at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, where children can interact with marine life and learn about ocean conservation. For a bit of nature, head to the Natural Bridges State Beach, where tide pools reveal a paradise of sea creatures and the iconic natural bridge formation provides a stunning backdrop for family photos. If your family loves wildlife, a visit to the Santa Cruz Zoo is a must, with its intimate setting allowing for close encounters with animals from around the globe. Finally, take a scenic hike at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, where walking among towering redwoods creates an unforgettable experience in nature. For convenience and comfort, consider staying in the Westside area, where family-friendly hotels offer spacious rooms and easy access to the beach and boardwalk, allowing you to fully immerse yourselves in all that Santa Cruz has to offer. With attentive service and the opportunity to create lasting memories, your family getaway in Santa Cruz is sure to be a hit.

Find the best family friendly hotels in Santa Cruz

For families planning a trip to Santa Cruz, these top hotels offer a range of family-friendly amenities and comfortable accommodations that everyone will enjoy.

Beach Street Inn and Suites

  • Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: Beach Street Inn and Suites is a charming option for families, featuring an excellent review rating of 9.2. This hotel provides accessible pools and daily housekeeping, along with free cribs and stair gates for safety, making it ideal for families traveling with young children. The convenience of a microwave and pool gate adds to the comfort of family stays.
  • Other amenities: Beyond its family-friendly offerings, guests can relax on the terrace or enjoy beach access just steps from the hotel. The hotel features a hot tub, outdoor pool, and self-parking for added convenience. With nearby attractions like the boardwalk and beach activities, families can create lasting memories during their stay in Santa Cruz.
  • 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

Dream Inn Santa Cruz

  • Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: With an impressive review rating of 9.2, Dream Inn Santa Cruz is a luxurious retreat for families. This beachfront hotel offers accessible pools, daily housekeeping, and free cribs, making it easy for parents to travel with their young ones. The hotel also features room service and sofa beds, providing additional comfort for families during their stay.
  • Other amenities: Apart from the family-friendly offerings, guests can enjoy the full-service spa and on-site restaurant with stunning ocean views. The resort features a terrace and patio for relaxation, along with heated pools and beach access. Guests will appreciate the concierge service and various nearby activities, ensuring an enriching experience for the whole family.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.15 miles, Cowell's Beach - 0.02 miles, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.07 miles

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

  • Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: Hyatt Place Santa Cruz is a wonderful choice for families, providing a rating of 9.0 that reflects its family-friendly focus. Guests will appreciate the spacious suites equipped with kitchens, allowing for easy meal preparation. The hotel features an accessible pool and daily housekeeping, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your stay.
  • Other amenities: In addition to family amenities, the hotel offers a delicious buffet breakfast included in your stay. Guests can unwind at the outdoor pool, complete with sun loungers and umbrellas for shade. Located conveniently near the boardwalk and beach, the hotel also provides valet parking and features such as air conditioning to keep everyone comfortable during warm days.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.62 miles, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.83 miles, Ocean Street - 0.11 miles

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

  • Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: Ideal for families seeking a welcoming atmosphere, La Quinta Inn & Suites boasts a strong review rating of 9.0. Guests will appreciate the accessible pool, along with daily housekeeping and free cribs, ensuring a straightforward stay for travelers with little ones. The hotel also features a snack bar and a microwave in each room, perfect for quick family meals and snacks.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the family-centric amenities, the hotel offers a range of appealing features. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning, with options for both continental and hearty meals. The hotel also provides a terrace for relaxation, alongside a fitness center for those looking to stay active. With nearby beaches for fun-filled days and a secure gated pool area, it offers the perfect family getaway in 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

Casablanca On The Beach

  • Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: Casablanca On The Beach is a cozy family-friendly hotel with a solid review rating of 8.6. Family guests will find amenities such as daily housekeeping and free cribs, with connecting rooms available for larger groups. The hotel’s nearby the beach makes it a perfect choice for family outings and adventures while offering easy access to nearby attractions.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its family-focused amenities, the hotel provides a terrace and patio for relaxation, along with convenient self-parking. Guests can explore local beaches and enjoy activities such as kayaking and windsurfing. With ocean views and a welcoming atmosphere, it creates a delightful environment for families visiting Santa Cruz.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.22 miles, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.31 miles, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.02 miles

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

What are the best family-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz?
When it comes to family-friendly hotels in Santa Cruz, the Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz stands out with its inviting atmosphere and helpful amenities tailored for families. Rated 8.4 by travellers, this 3-star hotel features a lovely outdoor pool that children can enjoy safely, thanks to its pool gate. Families appreciate the spacious and clean rooms, as well as the friendly staff who are always ready to assist.

Another fantastic option is the Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, a 4-star gem rated 8.6 by guests. This hotel truly shines with its beautiful outdoor pool, complete with poolside cabanas and sun loungers for parents to relax while keeping an eye on the kids. The comfortable and clean rooms provide the great retreat after a day of exploration, and the accommodating staff are known for their helpfulness.

For those seeking a convenient location near the beach and boardwalk, the Comfort Inn Beach/Boardwalk Area is a solid choice. With a review score of 7.8, this hotel offers child-friendly window designs and a children's pool, making it a safe and enjoyable spot. Guests rave about the friendly staff and the complimentary breakfast, providing additional value for families on the go.

The La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz also deserves a mention, boasting a top rating of 9.2. This 3-star hotel offers spacious rooms equipped with sofa beds and cribs, great for accommodating families. Guests enjoy free breakfast options on weekends, making mornings much easier for busy parents.

Lastly, the Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites is another top contender, matching the La Quinta with a review score of 9.2. With connecting rooms and free rollaway beds, families can find the comfort they need, and the hotel's proximity to the beach is an added bonus. Travellers appreciate the cleanliness of the rooms and the ease of parking, ensuring a stress-free stay.
Which area of Santa Cruz is best to stay in for families?
For families visiting Santa Cruz, the best areas to stay are near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk or Capitola Village, as both offer convenient access to attractions and a relaxed, seaside atmosphere.

Staying near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk puts you right at the heart of the action with plenty of entertainment options. The Boardwalk itself offers classic amusement park rides and games that are fun for all ages. Just steps away, Main Beach provides a wonderful spot for building sandcastles and splashing in the calm waters. The area is very walkable, with numerous casual eateries, ice cream shops, and souvenir stores along the boardwalk and nearby streets.

Capitola Village offers a charming, quieter alternative with a picturesque beach and a relaxed, European-like ambiance. The village is known for its colorful Venetian Court apartments and its accessible beach, which is superb for younger children to play on. You'll find a delightful array of family-friendly restaurants, cafes, and boutiques within easy walking distance. The Capitola Wharf is also a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll and to enjoy the ocean views.
How much does a family hotel in Santa Cruz cost?
Travelers can find great deals on family-friendly Santa Cruz hotels from $74 with Expedia. You may find hotels in Santa Cruz that let kids stay for free, which can help you save. There are plenty of factors that can impact the price of family hotels, including location, amenities and the time of year when you want to visit. Sort Santa Cruz hotels on Expedia by price to see our cheapest prices first.
What are the best Santa Cruz family-friendly hotels with a pool?
The Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz is a fantastic 3-star option for families seeking a delightful stay. With a traveller review score of 8.4, guests rave about its spacious, clean rooms, friendly staff, and a lovely outdoor pool that's great for some family fun. The hotel also features a dedicated area for children to play games and connecting rooms, ensuring everyone has a comfortable space to relax.

Another excellent choice is the Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, which boasts a higher rating of 8.6. This 4-star hotel offers a stunning outdoor pool complete with poolside cabanas and sun loungers, making it an ideal spot for parents to unwind while keeping an eye on the kids. The rooms are described as comfortable and clean, with helpful staff ready to assist with any needs.

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz stands out with an outstanding score of 9.2. This 3-star hotel features an outdoor pool and complimentary breakfast, making it a convenient choice for families. Guests appreciate the spacious rooms and excellent customer service, ensuring a pleasant stay for all.

Additionally, the Comfort Inn Beach/Boardwalk Area offers a seasonal outdoor pool with a child-friendly design, making it a safe choice for younger swimmers. With a review score of 7.8, it's praised for its convenient location and friendly staff, which can be particularly appealing for families looking to explore the nearby attractions.

Lastly, the Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites, also rated at 9.2, features a secure outdoor pool and is conveniently located close to the beach. Families can enjoy comfortable accommodations and a great breakfast to start their day of adventures.
What are the top-rated luxury family hotels in Santa Cruz?
La Bahia Hotel and Spa is a great choice for families seeking luxury in Santa Cruz, boasting an impressive traveller rating of 9.6. This 4.5-star hotel not only features a sparkling outdoor pool but also offers delightful amenities such as poolside cabanas and a dedicated children's games area, ensuring that families can enjoy both relaxation and fun. Guests appreciate the comfort of spacious rooms equipped with sofa beds, making it superb for accommodating families of all sizes.

Another fantastic option is the Chaminade Resort & Spa, rated 8.0 by travellers. This 4-star resort is located in a beautiful setting and offers connecting rooms, which are ideal for families who prefer to stay close together. The outdoor pool is secured for peace of mind, and the inviting poolside bar provides a relaxed atmosphere for adults while kids can enjoy the various games provided. Guests frequently praise the friendly staff and spacious, clean rooms, enhancing the overall experience.

For a beachside getaway, Dream Inn Santa Cruz, with a traveller rating of 9.2, is hard to beat. This 4-star hotel features a stunning outdoor pool and is conveniently located right on the beach, allowing families to easily indulge in sun-soaked days by the ocean. Families will appreciate the free rollaway beds and cribs, along with excellent dining options on-site. Reviewers often highlight the beautiful, clean rooms and exceptional customer service, making it a beloved family destination.

Lastly, Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection, rated 8.6, offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience. This 4-star hotel features an outdoor pool with cabanas and is ideal for families looking for a relaxing retreat. Guests rave about the comfortable rooms and the helpful staff, while the amenities like free cribs and connecting rooms ensure that families have everything they need for a stress-free stay.
Which Santa Cruz family-friendly hotels welcome pets?
The Ocean Echo Inn and Beach Cottages is a charming 3.5-star hotel that welcomes pets, making it a great choice for families traveling with furry friends. Guests appreciate the excellent location and consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, contributing to its impressive review score of 8.8. Families will love the array of amenities, including free cribs, toys for children, and a lovely patio area, superb for relaxing after a day of adventure.

Another fantastic option is the Chaminade Resort & Spa, rated 4.0 stars. This resort not only permits dogs but also offers spacious and clean rooms alongside beautiful surroundings. With a review score of 8.0, guests enjoy the shared outdoor pool, poolside bar, and the attentive service from the friendly staff. The resort's amenities ensure that both kids and pets can have a delightful stay.

For those seeking a luxurious experience, La Bahia Hotel and Spa stands out with a top rating of 9.6. This 4.5-star hotel allows both dogs and cats, providing a warm welcome for all family members. Its outdoor pool and children's games ensure that younger guests have plenty to do, while parents can unwind at the poolside bar.

Additionally, the Ocean Pacific Lodge and the Continental Inn are both pet-friendly options that cater to families. The Ocean Pacific Lodge, with a review score of 8.8, offers spacious rooms and free parking, making it convenient for families on the go. The Continental Inn, rated at 7.6, is known for its affordability and cleanliness, allowing families to enjoy a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.
Which family-friendly hotels are in central Santa Cruz?
One of the top family-friendly hotels in central Santa Cruz is the Beach Street Inn and Suites, where guests rave about the clean and comfortable rooms. Rated 9.4 by travellers, this hotel offers a heated outdoor pool that's superb for kids, along with a hot tub for parents to relax in. Families appreciate the thoughtful amenities, including cribs and safety gates, ensuring a secure and enjoyable stay.

Another excellent option is the Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, also boasting a review score of 9.4. This hotel features a fantastic pool that's gated for safety and offers connecting rooms for families needing extra space. Guests enjoy a complimentary breakfast that's delicious and convenient, making mornings with kids that much easier.

For those looking for a blend of comfort and value, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz is a great choice, rated 9.2 by patrons. This hotel provides spacious rooms, free breakfast on weekends, and a friendly setting that families love.

If you desire a stunning view along with your family adventure, Marea Sol Hotel offers both an outdoor pool and balconies with ocean views. With a traveller rating of 9.2, it's conveniently located near the beach, making it easy for families to enjoy the sun and sand.

Lastly, the Dream Inn Santa Cruz, a 4-star hotel, is right on the beach and features an inviting outdoor pool, rated 9.2 by guests. Families can take advantage of free rollaway beds and cribs, ensuring everyone has a comfortable night's sleep after a day of fun.
Is Santa Cruz a family-friendly destination?
Yes, Santa Cruz is a fantastic family-friendly destination, offering a wonderful blend of beach fun, outdoor adventures, and activities for all ages.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic family attraction, featuring thrilling rides, arcade games, and plenty of delicious treats like corn dogs and ice cream. It's right on the beach, so you can easily combine roller coaster fun with some sandcastle building and splashing in the waves.

Beyond the Boardwalk, families will love exploring the natural beauty of the area. Natural Bridges State Beach is a stunning spot to observe the iconic rock formations and explore tide pools at low tide, where children can discover small marine creatures in their natural habitat. Many local parks offer playgrounds and open spaces for kids to run around and enjoy the fresh air.

Santa Cruz is also quite walkable in many areas, especially around the downtown and beach districts, making it easy to stroll to casual eateries with kid-friendly menus or grab groceries for a picnic.
What family-friendly activities should we do in Santa Cruz?
Some of the best family-friendly activities in Santa Cruz include exploring the Santa Cruz Wharf, spending a day at Natural Bridges State Beach, and enjoying the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

The Santa Cruz Wharf is a bustling hub where families can stroll along, watch boats, and even spot sea lions basking in the sun. There are several casual eateries offering fresh seafood and classic kid-friendly options, plus a few ice cream shops for a sweet treat. It's a great place for a leisurely walk with beautiful ocean views.

Natural Bridges State Beach is a fantastic spot for families to explore. Kids will love discovering marine life in the tide pools during low tide, and the iconic natural bridge formations are a sight to behold. There's also a short, easy walking trail through a monarch butterfly grove in the fall and winter, which is a magical experience.

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers classic amusement park fun right on the beach. Families can enjoy a variety of rides, play carnival games, and savor classic boardwalk snacks like corn dogs and cotton candy.
Are there any great family hotels in Santa Cruz with a gym?
The Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola is an excellent choice for families seeking an inviting space and convenient amenities. With a stellar traveller rating of 9.4, this hotel features a 24-hour fitness centre, superb for keeping up with workout routines while away from home. Guests rave about the spacious and clean rooms, as well as the friendly and amazing staff, making it a top pick for family travellers.

Another fantastic option is La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz, which also boasts a fitness centre accessible to all guests. Rated 9.2, families appreciate the spacious and clean accommodations, alongside a delicious complimentary breakfast offered on weekends. The friendly staff and excellent location further enhance the experience, ensuring a comfortable stay for those traveling with children.

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites is another family-friendly hotel to consider. With an excellent review score of 9.2, it provides a fitness facility and comfortable rooms, making it ideal for families. Guests love the convenient location close to the beach and the great customer service, which adds to the overall pleasant stay.

Lastly, La Bahia Hotel and Spa, rated at 9.6, offers not only a fitness centre but also a range of family-friendly activities, including games for children. The inviting atmosphere and poolside amenities make it a superb retreat for families looking to unwind after a day of adventure.
How can I save on a Santa Cruz family-friendly hotel with Expedia?
With Expedia, you earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible Santa Cruz 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. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your family-friendly hotel stay. But, if you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
Can I cancel my family 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 family-friendly hotel in Santa Cruz for you.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia