Find hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz

Top reasons to visit Downtown Santa Cruz

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Enjoy thrilling rides and games at this iconic amusement park right by the beach.
• Scenic Santa Cruz Wharf: Stroll along the wharf for stunning views, fresh seafood, and sea lion sightings.
• Outdoor Adventures: Explore the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains for hiking, biking, and nature experiences.
• Trendy Shops and Eateries: Discover unique boutiques and delicious dining options in a vibrant atmosphere.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Engage in a variety of attractions suitable for all ages, ensuring fun for the whole family.

Find great hotels near Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz offers a diverse selection of accommodations perfect for every traveler. From oceanfront inns with stunning sea views to pet-friendly hotels catering to adventurous spirits, you'll find a variety of options to enhance your stay. Whether you're seeking a business-themed vacation experience or a relaxing getaway, the best hotels in this vibrant area provide top-notch services and facilities to ensure a memorable visit.

• Los Gatos Lodge: Experience a blend of business convenience and pet-friendly hospitality at Los Gatos Lodge, located 18 miles from Downtown Santa Cruz. This 3-star hotel caters to business travelers with comprehensive amenities like multiple meeting rooms and an accessible business center. Guests appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the ease of bringing their furry companions along, thanks to its pet-friendly policy, which includes waived fees for service animals. Ideal for those seeking a productive stay while enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.
• Continental Inn: Just 0.4 miles from Downtown Santa Cruz, the Continental Inn is perfect for families looking for a comfortable getaway. This hotel has a welcoming atmosphere, equipped to cater to families with young children, featuring amenities like cribs available for a fee. The pet-friendly policy allows guests to travel with their pets, with provisions like food and water bowls. Families can enjoy the close proximity to downtown attractions while feeling right at home in this inviting setting.
• Ocean Pacific Lodge: Situated merely 0.5 miles from Downtown Santa Cruz, Ocean Pacific Lodge offers a family-friendly and pet-welcoming environment. This motel provides a range of amenities for children, including cribs and a suitability rating for kids, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. The pet policy is accommodating, featuring restrictions for certain pets and providing food and water bowls. The lodge's prime location and relaxed vibe make it a great choice for families looking to explore the coastal charm of Santa Cruz.

Where to stay near Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz is a vibrant hub perfect for outdoor family adventures and beach vacations. Explore the friendly atmosphere, trendy shops, and delightful eateries while enjoying the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains. This area is ideal for a weekend getaway, offering a mix of relaxing excursions and romantic spots. Whether you're wandering through the city center or discovering local attractions, Downtown Santa Cruz promises a memorable experience for all travelers.

• Santa Cruz: Nestled along the picturesque coast of California, Santa Cruz is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches and lively atmosphere. Downtown Santa Cruz serves as the heart of the city, offering a mix of outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and a unique beach experience. Visitors can enjoy the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, an amusement park filled with rides and games, or relax on the sandy shores. With a bustling atmosphere, especially from June to August, Santa Cruz is perfect for those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the coastal charm.
• Capitola: Just 4 miles from Downtown Santa Cruz, Capitola offers a quaint coastal retreat with stunning scenery and a relaxed vibe. This charming city is popular among tourists seeking outdoor adventures and beautiful beaches. With its picturesque beachfront, colorful cottages, and vibrant local shops, Capitola is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a cozy meal with a view. The peak travel months are April and June to July, making it an ideal spot for visitors looking to experience a scenic beach getaway close to the action of Santa Cruz.
• Westside Santa Cruz: Located a mere 0.4 miles from Downtown Santa Cruz, Westside Santa Cruz is a delightful neighborhood that combines outdoor recreation with family-friendly attractions. A popular destination during the summer months, Westside offers easy access to the beach, boardwalk, and educational venues. Visitors can explore the nearby Santa Cruz Wharf or enjoy a day at the beach while soaking in the stunning coastal views. With its close proximity to the main city, Westside Santa Cruz is a perfect choice for those looking to experience the best of both worlds.

Things to do near Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz offers a vibrant mix of outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and beach fun. Visitors can explore an amusement park, stroll along the iconic boardwalk, and engage in educational experiences. It's an ideal spot for corporate events and major attractions, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy in this lively coastal city.

Shopping

In Downtown Santa Cruz, explore Pacific Garden Mall for vibrant shops and entertainment just 0.1 mile away. For a blend of family-friendly options, visit Ocean Street, located 0.8 mile from downtown. Swift Street Courtyard, 2 miles away, offers a mix of dining and shopping in a lively atmosphere.

Recreation

Pasatiempo Golf Course, located 2 miles from downtown, offers a stunning golf experience amidst beautiful landscapes. For adventure, Treks and Tracks Rock Climbing Trips, 5 miles away, provides exhilarating climbing excursions that promote wellness and connection with nature. Luminescence Healing Haven, 12 miles from downtown, offers soothing body treatments for ultimate relaxation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Zip Line at TreeTopWalk, offering breathtaking views amidst the trees, located 7 miles from Downtown. For a scenic hike, explore Ox Trailhead, 4 miles away, where adventure meets stunning landscapes. For more excitement, visit Cupertino Sports Center, 24 miles away, packed with various activities.

Nightlife

In Downtown Santa Cruz, Boardwalk Bowl offers a fun arcade atmosphere for adventure seekers, while the Sky Glider provides thrilling rides for entertainment lovers. For a touch of culture and romance, the Flint Center for the Performing Arts is perfect for a memorable night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown Santa Cruz

To save money during your visit to Downtown Santa Cruz, consider traveling between November and January, as prices are lower during these months compared to peak summer. Book your stay on a Monday for the best rates, and use Expedia's search tool to filter for eco-friendly accommodations. Combine your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings, and join the One Key membership for exclusive discounts. Explore the area by walking or utilizing affordable public transport, and take advantage of free local attractions to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown Santa Cruz 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 Downtown Santa Cruz is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown Santa Cruz is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase hotels that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendliness. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Downtown Santa Cruz hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions near Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz offers a perfect blend of outdoor fun, family activities, and beach experiences. Visitors can explore popular attractions like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the scenic Santa Cruz Wharf, and the stunning Santa Cruz Mountains. With a variety of options for culture, adventure, and relaxation, including local motels and beautiful beaches, this vibrant area caters to all types of travelers looking for a memorable vacation.

• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience the thrill of this classic seaside amusement park, featuring iconic rides, games, and delicious boardwalk treats. With its vibrant atmosphere and stunning ocean views, it’s perfect for families and adventure seekers alike.
• Capitola Beach: Relax at this picturesque beach known for its charming village vibe. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or strolling along the colorful beachfront cottages, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back day by the ocean.
• Mystery Spot: Discover the intriguing optical illusions and gravitational anomalies at this unique attraction. This cultural gem offers guided tours that blend fun and curiosity, making it a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Best time to go to Downtown Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Downtown Santa Cruz can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Downtown Santa Cruz falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Downtown Santa Cruz 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 Downtown Santa Cruz

Traveling to Downtown Santa Cruz is convenient with several major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is located 49 miles away, with luxurious hotel options like Fairmont San Francisco and Palace Hotel, both offering transfer services to the airport. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is closer at 28 miles, with top-rated hotels such as Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto and Santa Clara Marriott, also providing easy access to the airport. Oakland International Airport (OAK) is 52 miles away, featuring hotels like 1 Hotel San Francisco and Claremont Resort & Club, which offer convenient transportation options to the airport as well.