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

Find Santa Cruz motels from $74

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Our top choices for Santa Cruz motels

1. Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,527 reviews)
"I like the location , the clean rooms, it was quiet, free parking, for the price you cant beat it, I will be going there in the near future"
United States
Ramiro
$99 nightly
The price is $115
Sep 28 - Sep 29
Total with taxes and fees
Ocean Pacific Lodge

2. Beachview Inn

Beachview Inn
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,007 reviews)
"Great location and price."
Canada
Elizabeth
$73 nightly
The price is $83
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Total with taxes and fees
Beachview Inn

3. Mission Inn

Mission Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Amazing property and fantastic helpful staff"
United States
Terry
$111 nightly
The price is $128
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Total with taxes and fees
Mission Inn

4. Beach Street Inn and Suites

Beach Street Inn and Suites
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,001 reviews)
"Great location walking distance to most places great view"
United States
Marci
$146 nightly
The price is $168
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Total with taxes and fees
Beach Street Inn and Suites

5. Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
7.4 out of 10, Good, (1,004 reviews)
"Location is great"
United States
Brian
$73 nightly
The price is $86
Sep 10 - Sep 11
Total with taxes and fees
Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

6. Islander Motel Santa Cruz

Islander Motel Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,026 reviews)
"Always a great stay here."
United States
Vanessa
$67 nightly
The price is $78
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Total with taxes and fees
Islander Motel Santa Cruz

7. Salt Air Lodge

Salt Air Lodge
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (127 reviews)
"Despite claims of a recent remodel, the bed was tough and felt like an outdated box-spring. We were stuck next to a loud ice machine that cycled on and off all night; the hotel was full so they couldn’t move us. Walls had unexplained stains running down them, and the bathroom had about five flies we had to swat. There was a mini fridge and microwave; however, there was a coffee maker— no cups, coffee, or tea. No ice bucket or bags either, and the lobby didn’t even have a fork. This was a real...
United States
Isaac
$88 nightly
The price is $102
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Total with taxes and fees
Salt Air Lodge

8. Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,006 reviews)
"Staff was friendly"
United States
Arif
$64 nightly
The price is $75
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Total with taxes and fees
Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

9. Surf City Inn and Suites

Surf City Inn and Suites
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1,197 reviews)
"Enjoyed the hot tub and the proximity to the Boardwalk!"
United States
Heather
$64 nightly
The price is $74
Sep 13 - Sep 14
Total with taxes and fees
Surf City Inn and Suites

10. Hitching Post Studios Inn

Hitching Post Studios Inn
2.0 star property
Eastside Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (457 reviews)
"Stayed for 5 days, everything was perfect!"
United States
Michelle Renee
$77 nightly
The price is $89
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Total with taxes and fees
Hitching Post Studios Inn

11. Super 8 by Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach

Super 8 by Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1,001 reviews)
"The staff was kind and helpful!"
United States
Jorge
$89 nightly
The price is $103
Sep 3 - Sep 4
Total with taxes and fees
Super 8 by Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach

12. Drift Inn

Drift Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (148 reviews)
"Nice stay."
United States
John
$76 nightly
The price is $85
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Total with taxes and fees
Drift Inn

13. Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
7.2 out of 10, Good, (1,000 reviews)
"Super clean and great location! Price is right and would stay again! Easy parking too!"
United States
Giana
$118 nightly
The price is $135
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Total with taxes and fees
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz

14. National 9 Santa Cruz

National 9 Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (259 reviews)
"Very friendly staff."
United States
James
$75 nightly
The price is $86
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Total with taxes and fees
National 9 Santa Cruz

15. Torch Lite Inn

Torch Lite Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,003 reviews)
"The gentleman at the desk was so kind, clean rooms, decent bed, great walk to the boardwalk and overall felt very safe and comfortable."
United States
Nevaeh
$84 nightly
The price is $98
Sep 14 - Sep 15
Total with taxes and fees
Torch Lite Inn

16. Capri Motel

Capri Motel
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
6.6 out of 10, (641 reviews)
"Very convenient location"
United States
Daniel
$64 nightly
The price is $75
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Total with taxes and fees
Capri Motel

17. Fireside Inn Santa Cruz

Fireside Inn Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
7.2 out of 10, Good, (1,001 reviews)
"It was clean and the staff was great close to the beach and boardwalk"
United States
Ashley
$70 nightly
The price is $81
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Total with taxes and fees
Fireside Inn Santa Cruz

18. Aqua Breeze Inn

Aqua Breeze Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (1,003 reviews)
"The room had an awesome view of the Boardwalk!"
United States
Rosa
$98 nightly
The price is $113
Sep 10 - Sep 11
Total with taxes and fees
Aqua Breeze Inn

19. Motel Santa Cruz

Motel Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
5.2 out of 10, (1,004 reviews)
"It was a nice stay"
United States
Justin
$82 nightly
The price is $94
Sep 10 - Sep 11
Total with taxes and fees
Motel Santa Cruz

20. Rio Sands Vacation Rentals

Rio Sands Vacation Rentals
2.0 star property
Rio del Mar
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Great little vacation spot away from the big crowds and corporate atmosphere."
United States
Rich
$160 nightly
The price is $184
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Total with taxes and fees
Rio Sands Vacation Rentals
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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Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Price trends for Motels in Santa Cruz

Less expensive
More expensive
Next month
December
May
$143
Month
Price
January
$280
February
$284
March
$300
April
$299
May
$305
June
$144
July
$193
August
$157
September
$143
October
$143
November
$138
December
$137
Price trend information excludes taxes and fees and is based on base rates for a nightly stay for 2 adults found in the last 7 days on our site and averaged for commonly viewed Motels in Santa Cruz. Select dates and complete search for nightly totals inclusive of taxes and fees.

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Motels information

Number of reviews
10,417
Accommodation
26 Motels
Lowest Price
$74
Highest Price
$184

Frequently asked questions

What are the best Santa Cruz motels, based on reviews?
Beach Street Inn and Suites is a fantastic option for travelers seeking a blend of comfort and convenience in Santa Cruz, boasting a remarkable 9.4 rating. Guests rave about the attentive staff and unbeatable location, which offers stunning views that enhance the experience. With a heated outdoor pool, complete with sun loungers and private room access, this motel ensures that relaxation is just a step away. Guests can also enjoy the lovely terrace or balcony, superb for unwinding after a day of adventure.

For those looking for a cozy and intimate stay, Mission Inn stands out with its inclusive setting and a solid 9.0 rating. The private hot tubs, both indoors and outdoors, provide a superb setting for couples wanting to enjoy some quality time together. Reviewers frequently mention the welcoming staff and delicious breakfast, making it an ideal choice for couples or solo travelers who appreciate thoughtful touches and a great location.

Families will find Ocean Pacific Lodge to be a welcoming haven, with a great rating of 8.8. Its excellent location and spacious rooms make it a great base for exploring Santa Cruz. Guests appreciate the friendly staff and comfortable rooms that cater to both relaxation and family fun.
What is the nightly rate for a motel in Santa Cruz?
You can find a great deal from $74 on Santa Cruz motels with Expedia. Typically, prices are higher during popular times – like weekends and holidays – while staying midweek is often cheaper. To find the best nightly rates on Santa Cruz motels, try to be flexible with travel dates, and sort search results by price from low to high.
Are there any family-friendly motels in Santa Cruz?
Beach Street Inn and Suites is an excellent choice for families visiting Santa Cruz. This welcoming property features a refreshing pool, great for kids to splash around after a day of adventure. With complimentary cribs and safety gates, it ensures peace of mind for parents traveling with little ones. The convenience of in-room microwaves allows for quick snacks, while daily housekeeping keeps your space tidy and stress-free. Plus, its proximity to nearby theme parks makes it an ideal base for family excursions.

Mission Inn also caters to families beautifully. Offering spacious rooms with a sofa bed and cribs available, it provides flexibility for larger families. The inviting garden area is a wonderful spot for kids to play or for parents to relax while enjoying the fresh air. With convenient amenities like a microwave and daily housekeeping, this motel ensures that families feel right at home during their stay.

For those seeking a cozy atmosphere, Ocean Pacific Lodge is another fantastic option. This family-friendly property offers cribs free of charge, making it easy for parents to travel light. Daily housekeeping keeps the environment clean and comfortable, while the in-room microwaves are great for heating up meals or snacks. Its inviting ambiance and thoughtful amenities create a warm and welcoming retreat that families will appreciate.
Can I find Santa Cruz motels that offer complimentary breakfast?
The Mission Inn is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a comfortable stay in Santa Cruz, especially for families. This welcoming motel offers complimentary continental breakfast, ensuring your mornings start off right. Guests can savor a variety of options while enjoying the cozy atmosphere. With a private hot tub available for relaxation after a day of exploring, it's superb for unwinding with family. The property's proximity to nearby beaches and ocean access makes it an ideal base for family adventures, allowing you to easily enjoy the sun and surf.

Another great option is the Howard Johnson by Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which also provides a complimentary breakfast to fuel your adventures. Families will appreciate the spacious rooms equipped with kitchen facilities, making it convenient for preparing snacks or light meals. The motel features inviting ocean views from some rooms, along with private balconies or furnished patios, superb for enjoying the coastal breeze. Its close location to the beach and boardwalk ensures that both children and adults have plenty of activities at their fingertips, from thrilling amusement rides to relaxing beach days.
Can I find motels with a pool in Santa Cruz?
The Beach Street Inn and Suites is a fantastic choice for travelers looking to enjoy a refreshing pool experience in Santa Cruz. This property features a heated outdoor pool, superb for a leisurely swim or relaxing poolside under the California sun. Guests can unwind on the sun loungers or take advantage of the pool umbrellas for some shade. The friendly space makes it an excellent option for families, providing ample space for kids to play while parents relax.

Another great option is the Ocean Pacific Lodge, which also boasts an outdoor pool. This casual and welcoming motel is superb for families, with easy access to nearby attractions and beaches. The pool area offers a great spot to cool off after a day of exploring, making it an ideal retreat for families seeking both comfort and convenience.

Lastly, consider The Islander Motel Santa Cruz, which features a shared outdoor pool. This seasonal pool is a wonderful place for families to gather and enjoy some fun in the sun. Its poolside bar adds an extra layer of enjoyment, allowing parents to indulge in a refreshing drink while keeping an eye on the kids.
Are there any Santa Cruz motels with kitchenettes?
If you're looking for motels in Santa Cruz that feature kitchenettes, the Harbor Inn is a wonderful choice. This charming property offers guests the convenience of a kitchenette equipped with a refrigerator and microwave, allowing you to prepare quick meals or snacks whenever you please. Its location makes it easy to explore the beautiful coastline and nearby attractions, making it a practical base for families or those traveling with children.

Another great option is the Hitching Post Studios Inn, which takes the kitchenette experience a step further. In addition to the standard kitchenette amenities, it includes an oven and stovetop, giving you more flexibility for meal preparation. This property is great for families who prefer home-cooked meals or need to accommodate various dietary preferences during their stay.

Lastly, consider the Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz, which also features a kitchenette with a full-size refrigerator and stovetop, alongside a microwave. The added space and amenities make it an excellent choice for families seeking comfort and convenience while exploring all that Santa Cruz has to offer.
Is it better to stay in a Santa Cruz motel or hotel?
Motels and Hotels have different perks. When you stay at a motel, you're likely to find free parking and an outdoor pool. Staying overnight at a motel, can be handy when requiring easy road access. You'll often have access to your room from outside, and directly from the parking lot. Hotels generally have room access from inside the building. Motels are also often less expensive than hotels. The word "motel" was coined in 1925 by the owner of the Milestone Mo-Tel in San Luis Obispo, California.

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