Find hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz from AED 259

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Our top choices for Downtown Santa Cruz hotels

Pacific Blue Inn

Pacific Blue Inn
3.0 star property
Downtown Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (891)
"Great hidden gem"
United States
Dillon
The price is AED 327
AED 391 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Pacific Blue Inn

ROYAL INN

ROYAL INN
2.0 star property
24.3 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
7.4 out of 10, Good, (87)
"Friendly staff."
United States
Eduardo Rodriguez
The price is AED 231
AED 259 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Dec - 16 Dec
ROYAL INN

Best Western Rose Garden Inn

Best Western Rose Garden Inn
2.5 star property
24.4 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1000)
"Friendly staff and very clean. We really enjoyed our stay."
United States
Nancy
The price is AED 371
AED 431 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Dec - 22 Dec
Best Western Rose Garden Inn

Valley Inn

Valley Inn
2.5 star property
23.9 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
5.6 out of 10, (314)
"The rooms are bland microwave was filthy and the coffe pot had a used pod in it "
United States
roscoe
Valley Inn

Comfort Inn Watsonville

Comfort Inn Watsonville
2.5 star property
22.3 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
7.0 out of 10, Good, (615)
"Super nice staff, everything seemed really clean "
United States
Luis Armando
The price is AED 327
AED 382 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Dec - 22 Dec
Comfort Inn Watsonville

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watsonville by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watsonville by IHG
2.5 star property
22.6 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1001)
"The parking lot was limited, however the staff was very friendly and obliging. "
United States
Laura
The price is AED 511
AED 588 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Jan - 12 January 2026
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watsonville by IHG

Pacific Coast Inn

Pacific Coast Inn
2.0 star property
23.6 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
6.0 out of 10, (69)
"Clean room and good service "
United States
Gerardo
The price is AED 294
AED 340 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Pacific Coast Inn

Motel 6 Watsonville, CA - Monterey Area

Motel 6 Watsonville, CA - Monterey Area
2.0 star property
22.2 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
6.6 out of 10, (999)
"Clean room, friendly staff "
United States
Eddie
The price is AED 251
AED 293 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Dec - 22 Dec
Motel 6 Watsonville, CA - Monterey Area

Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville
2.5 star property
23.6 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (974)
"Nice place to stay "
United States
Fernando
The price is AED 452
AED 523 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Dec - 20 Dec
Hampton Inn & Suites Watsonville

Hotel Los Gatos

Hotel Los Gatos
4.0 star property
27.9 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1006)
"Nice rooms, pleasant atmosphere wonderful restaurant onsite! "
United States
Brian
The price is AED 621
AED 807 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Dec - 22 Dec
Hotel Los Gatos

Los Gatos Garden Inn Hotel

Los Gatos Garden Inn Hotel
2.5 star property
27.9 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (685)
"This place is clean, the staff is helpful and it is easy to park once you find the driveway."
United States
Elizabeth
The price is AED 459
AED 515 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Los Gatos Garden Inn Hotel

Inn At Moss Landing Point

Inn At Moss Landing Point
3.0 star property
29.4 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (931)
"Great room. Wonderful staff. Terrific location. Amazing food nearby."
United States
William
Inn At Moss Landing Point

Best Western The Inn Of Los Gatos

Best Western The Inn Of Los Gatos
2.5 star property
28.5 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1006)
"Room & breakfast was great. "
United States
Calvin
The price is AED 572
AED 641 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Dec - 29 Dec
Best Western The Inn Of Los Gatos

Captain's Inn at Moss Landing

Captain's Inn at Moss Landing
3.5 star property
28.9 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (545)
"Such a beautiful place to stay! Rooms are outstanding, the views are spectacular, and service is excellent. Robert and Marianne"
United States
Robert
The price is AED 369
AED 414 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 January 2026
Captain's Inn at Moss Landing

Toll House Hotel Los Gatos

Toll House Hotel Los Gatos
4.0 star property
27.7 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (999)
"Nice hotel in the heart of downtown "
United States
june
The price is AED 641
AED 822 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Dec - 22 Dec
Toll House Hotel Los Gatos

Seascape Beach Resort

Seascape Beach Resort
4.0 star property
13.5 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (866)
"Beautiful views!"
United States
Jennie
Seascape Beach Resort

Rio Sands Vacation Rentals

Rio Sands Vacation Rentals
2.0 star property
10.8 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1001)
"Great location. Helpful staff via phone."
United States
Calvin
Rio Sands Vacation Rentals

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
3.5 star property
10.3 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1008)
"We always enjoy staying here. Everything is great! Clean, pet friendly, close to everything and has a great restaurant!"
United States
Ariana
The price is AED 389
AED 451 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Dec - 22 Dec
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Monarch Cove Inn

Monarch Cove Inn
3.5 star property
7.2 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (941)
"Room was nice. Beautiful natural grounds. Monarch friendly! "
United States
Micheline
The price is AED 701
AED 797 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Monarch Cove Inn

Inn at Depot Hill

Inn at Depot Hill
4.0 star property
6.7 km from Downtown Santa Cruz
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (720)
"Wow, what a wonderful stay! We were in town for just one day, so we were honestly a bit hesitant to book something that seemed so nice. I’m glad we did! Staff are very hospitable, and the room was gorgeous! It has a beautiful classic feel with all the comforts of modern amenities. We would definitely stay again! "
United States
Kayla
Inn at Depot Hill
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.

Where to stay in Downtown Santa Cruz

Find the best Downtown Santa Cruz areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Westside Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Monterey Bay and Pacific Avenue, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Santa Cruz.

Eastside Santa Cruz

Eastside Santa Cruz is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Monterey Bay and Twin Lakes State Beach while you're in town.

Pleasure Point

World-renowned surf spot with a strong surf culture, Pleasure Point offers picturesque ocean views along East Cliff Drive and a walkable path with separate bike lanes. Enjoy amenities at Pleasure Point Park and nearby 41st Ave commercial district.

Beach Hill - Beach Flats

Beach Hill - Beach Flats might not have many top sights, but Main Beach and Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Upper Seabright

When in Upper Seabright, you can plan a visit to Santa Cruz Harbor and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Top Downtown Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Downtown Santa Cruz

Top reasons to visit Downtown Santa Cruz

  • Iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Enjoy thrilling rides and games at this famous amusement park by the beach.
  • Stunning Beaches: Relax on beautiful sandy shores and soak up the sun at nearby beaches.
  • Santa Cruz Wharf: Explore shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the coastline and marine life.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Discover hiking and nature trails in the scenic Santa Cruz Mountains.
  • Vibrant Downtown Scene: Stroll through trendy shops and cafes, experiencing the lively local culture.

Find great hotels near Downtown Santa Cruz

Experience the charm of Downtown Santa Cruz with a variety of lodging options tailored to every traveler. Whether you're seeking adventure, a family-friendly atmosphere, or a pet-friendly stay, you'll find the perfect hotel or resort to meet your needs. Enjoy breathtaking oceanfront views and easy access to local attractions as you explore the best hotels Santa Cruz has to offer. Your ideal getaway awaits in this vibrant coastal destination.

  • Los Gatos Lodge: Nestled 29.0km away from Downtown Santa Cruz, Los Gatos Lodge offers a serene environment perfect for business travelers and pet enthusiasts alike. This 3-star hotel features a welcoming atmosphere with pet-friendly policies, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. The lodge provides essential amenities, including a service animal fee waiver, making it a practical choice for those on work-related trips or leisure vacations with pets. Guests appreciate the tranquil surroundings and the professional service, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
  • Ocean Pacific Lodge: Located a mere 805m from Downtown Santa Cruz, Ocean Pacific Lodge is a family-friendly motel that caters to visitors looking for a fun and relaxed getaway. This lodge emphasizes a welcoming experience for both children and pets, with amenities designed to accommodate families. Features such as cribs available for a fee and pet-friendly policies, including water bowls for pets, ensure that every member of the family feels at home. Guests enjoy the proximity to local attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the vibrant area.
  • Continental Inn: Situated only 644m from Downtown Santa Cruz, Continental Inn is a charming hotel that warmly welcomes families and pets. This lodging provides an array of amenities, including cribs for families traveling with infants, making it a practical choice for those seeking comfort and convenience. The hotel’s pet policy allows for a variety of pets with some restrictions, ensuring your furry companions are accommodated. Guests appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the easy access to downtown attractions, creating a delightful vacation experience.

Where to stay near Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz offers a vibrant blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions, making it the perfect weekend getaway. Stroll through the city center to discover trendy shops and cafes, or relax on nearby beaches. The Santa Cruz Mountains provide stunning excursions for nature lovers, while the friendly atmosphere ensures a memorable visit. Explore the unique vibes of this charming neighborhood, where every corner invites relaxation and romance.

  • Santa Cruz: Nestled along the stunning California coast, Santa Cruz is a vibrant city renowned for its outdoor and family-friendly activities. As the heart of the region, Downtown Santa Cruz serves as a bustling hub with an array of attractions, including the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the picturesque beaches that line the bay. Visitors can enjoy amusement parks, educational venues, and stunning coastal views. The summer months from June to August witness a peak in traveler arrivals, making it the perfect time to soak up the sun and engage in various beach activities.
  • Westside Santa Cruz: Located a short 644m from Downtown Santa Cruz, Westside Santa Cruz is a charming neighborhood that offers the same beachy allure as its neighboring city. This area is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, boasting easy access to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and local parks. The neighborhood features quaint cafes and boutiques, providing a laid-back atmosphere. Like Santa Cruz, Westside experiences a peak in visitors during the summer months, making it a lively destination for those seeking sun-soaked adventures and fun-filled days.
  • Capitola: Just 6.4km from Downtown Santa Cruz, Capitola is a picturesque coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant arts scene. With a slightly more seasonal visitor trend, Capitola peaks in popularity from April to July, offering visitors a chance to enjoy its charming beachfront and local shops. The Capitola Village is a highlight, featuring colorful buildings, eateries, and recreational areas perfect for families. With its inviting atmosphere and stunning scenery, Capitola is a delightful spot to relax and create lasting memories.

Things to do near Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz offers a vibrant mix of outdoor family fun and beach activities, making it an ideal vacation spot. Visitors can enjoy attractions like the famous boardwalk and amusement park, while also exploring educational opportunities in the area. Whether you're looking to host a corporate event or simply enjoy major attractions and outdoor adventures, Downtown Santa Cruz has something for everyone to create lasting memories.

Shopping

In Downtown Santa Cruz, explore Pacific Garden Mall, just 161m away, offering vibrant shops and entertainment. Ocean Street, located 1.3km away, features a mix of family and business vibes. For a unique experience, visit Swift Street Courtyard, 3.2km away, with its lively atmosphere.

Recreation

At Pasatiempo Golf Course, enjoy a scenic round of golf surrounded by lush landscapes, just 3.2km from Downtown Santa Cruz. For adventure, Treks and Tracks Rock Climbing Trips offers exhilarating climbing experiences 8.0km away. For relaxation, Luminescence Healing Haven provides restorative body treatments 13.2km from the city.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Zip Line on the Treetop Walk, located 11.3km from Downtown Santa Cruz, surrounded by breathtaking nature. For a scenic hike, explore the Ox Trailhead, 6.4km away, offering stunning views and outdoor adventure vibes. For more excitement, visit Cupertino Sports Center, 26.4km away.

Nightlife

Enjoy a fun night at Boardwalk Bowl, just 1.1km away, for arcade games and family vibes. For a thrilling experience, visit Sky Glider, 1.3km away, offering exhilarating rides. Don't miss the Flint Center for the Performing Arts, 38.6km away, for a romantic evening filled with culture and entertainment.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

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 for lower accommodation rates. Mondays are generally the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices and filter for eco-friendly options. For transport, take advantage of the affordable public buses or explore the area on foot. Look for package deals that combine your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Don't forget to check for any free local events or 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: Expedia's search tool lets you specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort the results to display hotel prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you have the ability to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you can discover sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • 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 deal.

Find the best attractions near Downtown Santa Cruz

Downtown Santa Cruz offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal beach vacation spot. Visitors can explore the Santa Cruz Wharf, enjoy the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and relax at the beautiful beaches. With nearby attractions like national and state parks, as well as the picturesque jetty pier, there's something for everyone, whether you're seeking culture, outdoor experiences, or just a fun day in the sun.

  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience the excitement of this historic amusement park, just 1.3km from Downtown. With thrilling rides, games, and delicious treats, it's perfect for families and adventure seekers looking for outdoor fun by the beach.
  • Mystery Spot: Located 4.8km away, this quirky exhibit offers a unique cultural experience. Visitors can explore the gravitational anomalies and optical illusions that make this place a fascinating stop for those curious about the unusual.
  • Capitola Beach: A picturesque beach just 6.4km from Downtown, Capitola Beach provides a relaxing atmosphere with stunning views and vibrant surroundings. It's an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shore.

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.7°F (12.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May56.7°F (13.7°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June60.1°F (15.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August63.3°F (17.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September63.9°F (17.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October61.5°F (16.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Downtown Santa Cruz

When planning your visit to Downtown Santa Cruz, you can fly into three major airports. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is 78.9km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Fairmont San Francisco and Palace Hotel, both offering transfer services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is closer at 45.1km, with excellent accommodations such as the 5-star Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto and Santa Clara Marriott, both conveniently located. Lastly, Oakland International Airport (OAK) is 83.7km away, with options like the luxurious Claremont Resort & Club and 1 Hotel San Francisco, providing nearby access to the airport. Each airport offers various transportation services to help you reach your destination smoothly.

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Frequently asked questions

What is Downtown Santa Cruz like?
Downtown Santa Cruz is a welcoming neighborhood that travelers like for its restaurants and biking. Are you looking for Downtown Santa Cruz travel tips? Be sure to check out Pacific Avenue and Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History while you're in the neighborhood.
Where is the best place to stay in Downtown Santa Cruz?
Based on Expedia customer reviews, Pacific Blue Inn is the highest ranked property in Downtown Santa Cruz. This guesthouse is a short 11-minute walk from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and it offers in-room fireplaces and free WiFi.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Downtown Santa Cruz, will I receive a refund?
Yes, the majority of hotel bookings are fully refundable as long as you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before your scheduled arrival. If your reservation is non-refundable, you might be able to still cancel and get a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Enter dates in and click on "Search", then use the "fully refundable" filter to get the top deals on offer in Downtown Santa Cruz.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Downtown Santa Cruz?
To access more information about rescheduling or cancelling your trip to Downtown Santa Cruz, click here.
What is there to do around this Santa Cruz neighborhood?
If you're looking forward to a day of shopping in Downtown Santa Cruz, consider Pacific Garden Mall or Pacific Avenue, and pick out the perfect souvenir. A visit to Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History is also worth the trip while you're discovering the neighborhood. A few places to visit in the area around Downtown Santa Cruz include Williams-Reynolds House, Town Clock, and Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park. Mission Santa Cruz and Ocean Street are also worth a visit when you're out sightseeing in Santa Cruz.