The 12 best hotels in Santa Cruz for a one-of-a-kind vacation

Nestled on Cowell Beach, this boutique hotel is a popular and beloved local landmark. Featuring 165 guest rooms, each with a contemporary surf-inspired design, you'll wake up to epic views of the Santa Cruz Wharf, the iconic 111-year-old Beach Boardwalk, and the glistening waters of Monterey Bay.

Start your day with beachfront yoga on the oceanfront pool deck before heading out to explore the city. You can either venture out on foot or, for a touch of vintage charm, why not grab one of the hotel's retro blue beach cruisers? When it's time to unwind, the beachfront cocktail bar beckons, aptly named after the surfing pioneer, the late Jack O'Neill. The hotel actually sits on the very spot where Jack founded the world's first surf shop. So grab a stiff vodka martini (Jack’s favorite) and watch the surfers through the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows.

The mood? Retro-chic.
Location perks? In the heart of Santa Cruz’s buzzing beach scene.
Budget range? A pricey hotel in a prime location.

Perched on a cliff with stunning coastal views, this beautifully restored 1877 Italianate mansion, now a B&B, is within walking distance of Santa Cruz's top attractions, including the wharf, Cowell Beach, and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Back in the early 1900s, it was part of what locals fondly called "Millionaire's Row." Today, the property retains its elegant rose and boxwood gardens, but it's shed the doilies and period decor in favor of modern furnishings and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. A grand staircase leads to three stories of guest rooms, with the upper floors offering sweeping views of Monterey Bay. If you're not a fan of traditional bed-and-breakfast experiences, don't worry. This place operates more like a hotel but comes with quant perks, like a jar of homemade cookies and a seriously delicious breakfast buffet.

The mood? Coastal chic.
Location perks? Whether you’re learning about the surfing history or enjoying the natural scenery at the nearby Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, you’ll never be short of activities when staying at this B&B.
Budget range? A more expensive stay but breakfast is included.
Time Out Tip: Enjoy a nightly happy hour at the inn, complete with wine, cheese, and picturesque waterfront views from both the porch and the second-floor deck.

With spacious and inviting rooms, all decked out with Hilton's top-notch amenities, this hotel sets you up perfectly for your Santa Cruz adventure. Whether you're lounging by the outdoor pool or staying active in the well-equipped fitness center, there's never a dull moment. And, if you find yourself needing to tackle some work-related matters (though we'd rather you didn't on your vacation), the hotel's even got a 24/7 business center. When hunger strikes, make your way to the hotel's very own Stonehouse Bar & Grill, where you can enjoy traditional Californian cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The mood? Stylish and well-kept with no unnecessary frills.
Location perks? Just minutes from Santa Cruz’ best beaches and, of course, the Santa Cruz Boardwalk.
Budget range? A good option for budget-conscious travelers.

Located just steps away from Santa Cruz's Main Beach, this stylish hotel offers arguably the most convenient sea access you'll find in this list. And that’s just the beginning. If, for some reason, you're not interested in a sea view (although it's hard to imagine why), some of Beach Street Inn's suites offer a different perspective – overlooking an inviting internal courtyard, complete with picnic tables and its very own outdoor pool. As for the accommodations themselves, you can expect a clean and comfortable stay, with charming coastal and beach-themed decor adding a delightful touch to the ambiance.

The mood? Beachside bliss.
Location perks? You couldn’t get any closer to the beach even if you tried.
Budget range? A moderately-priced property right next to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Time Out Tip: Ask for a room that looks out over Cowells or Main Beach – trust us, you won’t regret it.

Tucked away on a quiet street, Sunny Cove Inn is a local secret, with its picture-perfect stretch of sand flanked by obscuring coastal cliffs. The inn offers clean, modern cottages, many of which come with spacious living areas and fully equipped kitchens, allowing you to embrace the Santa Cruz lifestyle and blend in with the locals. Instead of on-site dining, you'll find a generous communal deck with BBQ grills and picnic tables overlooking the water. Stock up your fridge and spend your days on the beach, before unwinding each evening by clinking beers at your very own beachside BBQ.

The mood? Quiet, beachfront cottages.
Location perks? Located on a quiet cul-de-sac, you’re steps away from what feels like its own private beach. 
Budget range? Moderately priced.
Time Out Tip: On Sundays, cross the street to the spirited Live Oak Farmers’ Market for fresh produce and meat, hot brunch plates, and toe-tapping live music.

With its striking white-and-turquoise exterior, the Pacific Blue Inn immediately catches your eye, but its interior is equally impressive. The inn features cozy, smart, and immaculate rooms, along with a secluded inner courtyard that’s perfect for relaxation. But what really sets Pacific Blue apart is its strong commitment to eco-friendliness. Constructed and adorned with sustainable materials, the inn utilizes cutting-edge technology to conserve both energy and water, making it an environmentally conscious choice for your stay.

The mood? A beachside hideaway.
Location perks? Close to key attractions, including the famous boardwalk, the University of California Santa Cruz, and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
Budget range? Enjoy a reasonably priced stay just a quick 15-minute walk from Santa Cruz town center.
Time Out Tip: Make the most of Pacific Blue Inn’s serene courtyard- unwind with a drink while you plan out your favorite surf spots.

This charming B&B gets its name from the year-round creek that ambles through its forested grounds, and a massive spinning waterwheel reflects the property’s original function as a corn grist mill. Today, you'll find thirteen cozy rooms nestled along the creek, featuring fireplaces, featherbeds, and tasteful decor. Mornings bring a hearty hot breakfast, while evenings offer a delightful wine and cheese hour. Take your coffee mug or merlot glass to one of the many garden sitting areas and savor the lush, overgrown surroundings. Despite its rustic appearance, the inn is just a ten-minute walk from the vibrant Pacific Avenue downtown. To get there, skip your phone's directions and take the enchanting tree-lined Walnut Avenue, where you'll pass by captivating Victorian homes.

The mood? Cozy and inviting with a woodsy charm.
Location perks? Beyond the woodland surroundings, you'll find popular attractions like the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center and the Santa Cruz Museum of Art. 
Budget range? A slightly more expensive stay.
Time Out Tip: The creek that flows through the property eventually meets Neary Lagoon, a wildlife refuge just a ten-minute walk from the inn. Stroll directly over the peaceful, reed-filled waters via the floating walkway that zig-zags across the lagoon for nearly a mile.

While many local hotels draw inspiration from the beach, this stylish property takes a different approach, celebrating Santa Cruz's coastal redwoods. Think desks crafted from eucalyptus trees, ceramic squirrels hidden among the walls, and a conference room with a translucent redwood scene.

The guest rooms are designed for tranquility, featuring a soothing color palette, reclaimed wood furnishings, and river rock shower floors. For those seeking a fantastic view, request a room facing the impressive pool area, complete with inviting daybeds, cozy fire pits, and chic private cabanas. But the best part? You're just a quick five-minute stroll from the beach. Or, if you’re looking to embrace the local spirit, cruise down to the sandy shores on a beach cruiser or an electric skateboard, both of which you can conveniently grab at the front desk.

The mood? The perfect balance of natural beauty and urban design.
Location perks? Within a leisurely 15-minute walk, you’ll find Pacific Avenue with boutique shops and stores.
Budget range? A well-priced stay that won’t break the bank.
Time Out Tip: During the day, the pool can get quite busy with families. To beat the rush, opt for an early morning or late-night swim when the Paradox restricts access to adults only. This way, you can enjoy your laps without getting whacked in the head by a beach ball.

Conveniently located just minutes away from Santa Cruz's beautiful beaches, this hotel provides all the comforts and conveniences you'd expect from a Hampton Inn by Hilton. From their renowned Cloud Nine beds for a restful night's sleep to their complimentary continental breakfast to kickstart your day, you can relax, knowing you'll begin your day fully refreshed and satisfied, ready for a day of adventures. And you won't need to venture too far to explore either. The hotel is close to Santa Cruz's historic downtown shopping district, top-rated golf courses, and the vibrant boardwalk. And, if those options don't tickle your fancy, you'll discover picturesque state parks, renowned surfing spots, and prime fishing areas in the hotel’s vicinity.

The mood? Modern and sophisticated.
Location perks? You'll find this spot just off Highway 17, putting you in good steed when it comes to exploring all the best beaches, restaurants, and culture. 
Budget range? A wallet-friendly stay.

Who wouldn't want to dive into the Santa Cruz experience at this fully-equipped Hyatt Place hotel? Situated just 1.4km from Santa Cruz Beach, this contemporary hotel serves as the ideal base for discovering all the gems this city has in store. The rooms are tastefully decorated, boasting a cozy seating area, a flat-screen TV, plush beds, and a private bathroom stocked with complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer. There’s even an inviting outdoor swimming pool where you can kick back and bask in the California sun.

The mood? Sleek and modern.
Location perks? Some of the top attractions within easy reach of the hotel include Seabright State Beach, Cowell’s Beach, and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Budget range? A pocket-friendly option.

Set on the waterside drag of Capitola Village—California’s oldest beach resort town—the Capitola Hotel evokes the golden age of travel with ten simple, uncluttered rooms housed in a charming 1940s building. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to pack some gabardine in a vintage leather suitcase covered with travel decals. The wife-and-husband owners keep interiors simple and focus on the details: quality furnishings and linens, a thoughtful continental breakfast and thick wool blankets for evenings on the patio.

The mood? Beachfront boutique.
Location perks? There’s no pool or restaurant, but Capitola Beach and its stretch of buzzing restaurants and bars sit directly across the street.
Budget range? Mid-range.

Alright, so technically this is more motel than hotel, but for what you get for your money it deserves a mention. Situated in the southwest of the city, it's close to great hiking trails and the beach (Mitchell's Cove is 15-minutes' stroll). The rooms are neat and simple, but comfortable, with the essentials including cable TV, a microwave, mini fridge and coffee-making facilities. A hot tub and sauna are also available onsite and there's a free breakfast featuring eggs, waffles, cereal, oatmeal, fruit, bagels, toast and yogurt.

The mood? Homely.
Location perks? It's peaceful and the Boardwalk is a 35-minute walk or ten-minute drive.
Budget range? Great value.