Find hotels near Three Mile Beach, Santa Cruz from $86

These Three Mile Beach insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 22, 2026.

Top reasons to visit Three Mile Beach

• Stunning Coastline: Enjoy beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing and surfing, attracting wave riders of all skill levels.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in hiking along scenic trails and explore nearby national and state parks.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Experience a welcoming vibe, making it ideal for families and beach lovers.
• Local Attractions: Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for fun activities and entertainment.
• Charming Neighborhoods: Discover picturesque surroundings and vibrant culture that enhance your coastal experience.

Find great hotels near Three Mile Beach

Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Three Mile Beach, Santa Cruz. With a variety of accommodations ranging from resorts to hotels, you'll find pet-friendly options and family-oriented services to enhance your stay. Enjoy free parking and the refreshing sea breeze while indulging in comfortable lodging that caters to all your vacation needs. Discover the ideal getaway at Three Mile Beach, where every moment is designed for your enjoyment.

• Continental Inn: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, the Continental Inn offers a cozy and family-friendly atmosphere just 5 miles from Three Mile Beach. This property stands out for its pet-friendly policy, allowing guests to bring their furry companions along for a memorable vacation. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities including cribs for a small fee, ensuring comfort for young guests. With a focus on family experiences, the Continental Inn is a great choice for those looking to enjoy a relaxed stay with their loved ones.
• Ocean Pacific Lodge: With a guest rating of 8.8, Ocean Pacific Lodge combines affordability with comfort, also located 5 miles from Three Mile Beach. This motel caters to families and pet owners alike, providing a welcoming environment for everyone. The property features child-friendly amenities, including cribs and a suitability rating for children, making it a perfect option for families. Pets are also welcomed with specific policies in place, including food and water bowls. Guests rave about the lodge's excellent service and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular choice for vacationers.
• Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley: As a 3.5-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.2, Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley offers a blend of city luxury and family-friendly amenities, located 7 miles from Three Mile Beach. This centrally located property is perfect for those seeking a vibrant city experience while still accommodating pets. Families will enjoy various child-friendly features, including breakfast options for children. With a focus on comfort and convenience, the Hilton provides a welcoming haven for travelers wanting to explore the area while enjoying modern amenities.

Where to stay near Three Mile Beach

Three Mile Beach in Santa Cruz, California, offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and friendly locals, this secluded beach is perfect for unwinding or enjoying excursions. Nearby, explore charming neighborhoods that enhance your coastal experience, from the picturesque coastline to the vibrant culture of Santa Cruz. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or exciting activities, Three Mile Beach and its surroundings provide the ideal getaway.

• Santa Cruz: Nestled along the stunning California coastline, Santa Cruz is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Three Mile Beach is a highlight here, attracting visitors for its outdoor recreation and family-friendly vibes. The city features a bustling boardwalk with amusement parks and great dining options. Popular activities include surfing, beach volleyball, and enjoying the local wildlife at nearby parks. With its iconic landmarks like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and picturesque bay, Santa Cruz provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
• Upland Open Space: Located just 3 miles from Three Mile Beach, Upland Open Space is a charming village that offers visitors a unique outdoor experience. The area is known for its beautiful landscapes and family-oriented activities, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy the scenic boardwalk and explore the nearby amusement parks. With attractions like the modern college university and bay nearby, Upland Open Space provides a refreshing escape while still being close to Santa Cruz’s vibrant offerings.
• Nobel: Also situated 3 miles from Three Mile Beach, Nobel is a quaint village that invites outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking adventure. The area is rich in educational experiences, with attractions like the modern college university and proximity to a national state park. Visitors can indulge in fun at the local amusement parks and explore the scenic boardwalks. Nobel’s blend of outdoor activities and educational opportunities makes it a delightful destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.

Things to do near Three Mile Beach

At Three Mile Beach in Santa Cruz, California, enjoy the stunning coastline with its beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing and surfing. This area is a popular surf spot, attracting wave riders of all skill levels. Engage in outdoor recreation activities such as hiking along scenic trails, and don't miss the chance to visit local attractions like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for a fun-filled day.

Shopping

At Three Mile Beach, you can enjoy local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Capitola Mall, about 5 miles away, featuring a range of stores from national retailers to local boutiques, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Capitola Village nearby.

Recreation

At Algonquin Dog Park, 29 miles from Three Mile Beach, enjoy a serene escape with luxury vibes. This private club offers tranquil walking paths and beautiful natural surroundings, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature, making it an ideal spot for wellness seekers.

Adventure

Three Mile Beach offers thrilling activities like surfing the Pacific waves, beach volleyball, and kayaking along the scenic coastline. Explore tide pools for marine life or hike nearby trails for stunning ocean views. The vibrant sunset makes for a perfect end to your adventurous day.

Nightlife

The nightlife at Three Mile Beach offers a blend of vibrant energy and laid-back charm. Enjoy live music at The Crow's Nest, or relax with a craft beer at Beachside Tavern. For dancing, head to The Beach Club, where the atmosphere is electric and the fun never ends.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Three Mile Beach

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Three Mile Beach 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 Three Mile Beach is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Three Mile Beach is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and hotel type. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Three Mile Beach with flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Three Mile Beach

Three Mile Beach in Santa Cruz, California, offers a blend of stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore nearby attractions like national and state parks, as well as the picturesque jetty and pier. Ideal for beach lovers and those seeking an enriching experience, the area includes popular spots such as Strawberry Beach and other renowned beaches in Central California, ensuring a memorable getaway for all types of travelers.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience the excitement of this classic California amusement park, located 5 miles from Three Mile Beach. With thrilling rides, games, and delicious food, it's perfect for families and adventure seekers alike, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the beach.
• Natural Bridges State Park: Just 3 miles away, this stunning beach offers a serene escape with its natural rock formations and tide pools. Enjoy sunbathing, picnicking, or exploring the diverse marine life in a tranquil setting that embodies the essence of coastal California.
• Mystery Spot: Located 7 miles from Three Mile Beach, this unique attraction invites you to explore its mind-bending gravitational anomalies. Dive into the quirky culture of this beloved exhibit, where illusions and curiosities challenge your perception of reality.

Best time to go to Three Mile Beach

The best time to visit Three Mile Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Three Mile Beach falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Three Mile Beach falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	54.7°F (12.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	60.1°F (15.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	63.3°F (17.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	63.9°F (17.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	61.5°F (16.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Three Mile Beach

Traveling to Three Mile Beach in Santa Cruz, California, can be conveniently done via three major airports. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated 48 miles away, with nearby hotels like Fairmont San Francisco, Taj Campton Place, and Palace Hotel, all providing shuttle services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 30 miles from the beach, featuring excellent options such as Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto and Santa Clara Marriott, both offering easy access to the airport. Lastly, OAKland International Airport (OAK) is located 52 miles away, with luxury accommodations such as Claremont Resort & Club and 1 Hotel San Francisco, both providing nearby airport access.