cheap hotels in Santa Cruz, CA

1. Seaway Inn (2-star hotel)

  • Address: 176 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • Phone: (831) 471-9004
  • Ratings: 4.3 (232 reviews) Very good
  • Website : Seaway Inn
  • Check-in time: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out time: 11:00 AM
  • Quick Summary: Straightforward rooms with TVs & minifridges in a modest motel featuring ocean views.

About this hotel

A 10-minute walk from Santa Cruz’s wharf and beachfront amusement park, this modest 2-story motel is a 1-mile drive from both Seal Point’s coastal vistas, and downtown Santa Cruz’s shops and restaurants.Offering casual, beachy decor, the straightforward rooms provide minifridges, microwaves and coffeemakers, plus cable TV and Wi-Fi. Some rooms have ocean views, and a family suite sleeps up to 6.Parking is available.

Things You Need to Know

  • The rooms have refrigerators and coffee makers
  • Guests mentioned the rooms are small
  • Walking distance to شاطئ كويل and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
  • Guests liked the service
  • Guests liked “Continental Breakfast”, mentioned 11 times in reviews
  • Guests mentioned “Boardwalk” 26 times
  • Guests praised the beach

Feedback From Real Customers

The Maldonado’s

The hotel is beautifully dressed It advertised breakfast, but it is not served due to “Covid” All the rooms have great view of the boardwalk but room 226

Do not get this room, it is in a corner, no view, the closet for the cleaning staff is on that corner, and so is the public stairs We were lucky enough to get this room Nice thing, parking is always available, walking distance to the boardwalk, beach and restaurants Downtown is not to too bad of a walk if you are in good shape

Mr Moogle X

The staff and cleaning lady were really nice! Our room was clean and wonderful This was our first hotel by the beach and for the price it was AMAZING! We plan on getting this hotel again when we visit!UPDATE: Thought it over and honestly I have to give them 5 stars We aren’t the overbearing type of customer and were in and out without any issues, but it was still 100% an amazing stay

❤️

Kulz

We got the family room and it was big enough for our family of 5 The separate room with the sofa bed was perfect for eating in and just watching TV I used the sofa bed, it’s small in size, it needs an upgrade since I can feel the spring on the mattress but sofa bed are always not comfortable from my experience

The staff were amazing and accommodating! The location is perfect where you can just walk to the boardwalk so you don’t have to pay parking

2. Continental Inn (2-star hotel)

  • Address: 414 Ocean St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • Phone: (831) 429-1221
  • Ratings: 4.0 (450 reviews) Very good
  • Website : Continental Inn
  • Check-in time: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out time: 12:00 PM
  • Quick Summary: Straightforward rooms in a low-rise budget hotel offering free Wi-Fi, plus an outdoor pool.

About this hotel

Less than a mile from Santa Cruz’s beach attractions, this low-rise budget hotel is 4 blocks from Pacific Avenue’s shops and restaurants and 8 blocks from the historic Santa Cruz Mission.The straightforward rooms come with minifridges, microwaves and coffeemakers, plus TVs and free Wi-Fi. Most have wood floors.Amenities include a seasonal outdoor pool and hot tub. Parking is free.

Things You Need to Know

  • 10 min walk to the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History
  • Guests praised the service
  • Guests mentioned “Boardwalk” 14 times
  • Guests mentioned coffee makers 17 times

Feedback From Real Customers

rosemarie whipple

We came in late after looking for a place to stay, was referred by another motel to try this place Victoria was very pleasant and gave us a nice room just a few dollars cheaper than we expected Also she recommended a tire store, due to us having a flat tire on our way from the Sacramento area

Thank you Victoria for your exceptional service We got tires at the location that she suggested Now to enjoy the rest of our vacation The room was very clean and quiet

Devin Hurte

Room was absolutely disgusting Go to a nearby grocery store for cleaning and disinfecting supplies to clean it ourselves after we noticed the amount of dust that was everywhere In the bottle of my wife’s feet were completely black from walking on the floor for a matter of minutes Refrigerator in the room was broken

Missing wall outlets Door did not seal all the way you could see light coming from the outside at the bottom Shower Had an extremely loud screeching noise when turned on Pillows on the bed were a joke like sleeping with cardboard So many things were wrong with this room and I was not expecting a five star room but this was ridiculous

Asma Ahmady

Misleading pictures on the website They show another building cross the street that has the pool and good rooms They gave us room in cheap-motel-like building

Not what we paid for I asked to change the room They said tomorrow, and next day said NO Shame on you Continental Inn There are tens of places to stay in on the same street and at better priceWe had bed-bug-bites all over Rusty door hinges, stiff bathroom door knob and slow draining bathtub

3. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Cruz, an IHG Hotel (2-star hotel)

About this hotel

Around the corner from Grant Park, this casual chain hotel is also 2 miles from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and 6.3 miles from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.The standard rooms come with desks, free WiFi and flat-screen TVs with premium cable channels. There are also coffeemakers and daily newspapers, while kids 19 and under stay free with an adult. Suites add separate living spaces with pull-out sofas, plus minifridges and microwaves.Amenities include a free breakfast bar and a heated outdoor pool, a 24/7 business center and fitness facilities, as well as a meeting room and 1 free parking space per reservation.

Things You Need to Know

  • The rooms have TVs and coffee makers
  • 6 min drive to the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History
  • One of the few hotels in the area with a restaurant
  • Guests mentioned “Boardwalk” 12 times

Feedback From Real Customers

Deborah Barta

NO free parking, that is frustrating when nothing was indicating it was Truck collecting trash is extremely noise right about 4am It feels like an earthquake is happening, this goes on for 40 min at least

Reserved room wasn’t clean, it was very clear when I checked the bathroom Staff was courteous and moved us to another room It was clean, both rooms were not the best of the chain For the price paid I DO NOT recommend, look somewhere else

Kathy Condon

We knew we wouldn’t be on the beach In fact, not easy feat getting a hotel on the water’s edge in this areaOur hotel was an easy off 101 and was meant to be just an overnight stop

Though if going to Santa Cruz again I would definitely stay hereeven had garage parkingComplimentary breakfast will sustain you for lunch Fresh fruit was a welcomed sight

jasmine thomas

Fair warning since the website is not updated- pool is under constructionTypically, I do not leave reviews because previously working in hospitality industry I understand things happen and not everything is perfect each time you stay in hotel This time though left me in disbelief

We were there for short trip to beach On our 2nd night about 8:45 PM our smoke detector began to chirp Called the front desk, her response I’ll call you back Mind you I explained what was happening, clearly just a simple battery needed to be changed She called me back, so is there smoke in the room?! I again explained no the battery is dying She stated well there is nothing I can do I don’t have access to a room with a ladder but to be honest not sure how to do it Maybe at 11 when the next guy comes in he can help I said so I need to sleep through the chirp going off every 30 seconds? (I had video and timed it by this time) She said yeah I asked for the manager to call me At around 10 PM same front desk gal calls back said here are your options 1) move to a King one bed room (my room 2 queen, I needed the two beds) 2) stay in the room and deal with it or 3) Be escorted off the property I said I’ll call you back and hung up! Keeping it in mind I had my 3 children it was 10 PM and not knowing where would we go, I decided to keep TV on and do our best to drown out the chirp!Woke up the next day full assuming since I didn’t change rooms and had voiced the problem we were having that the hotel would have maintenance take care of this for us that next day That did not happen! In fear of being “escorted” off the property, I decided to not push then envelope with this problem, to keep quite and finish out stay without further interaction with the staffI am still in disbelief that a simple battery change in a smoke detector escalated to being escorted off the property or deal with it mentality I think the GM Devin Smith needs to sit back and rethink how she approaches each situation at her hotel This was an easy fix that clearly was just not worth their time or effort in their eyesDo better Holiday Inn Santa Cruz it was a simple 10 minute fix yet you rather let your guests have 2 days of non stop chirping everything 30 seconds because it’s just to much to change a battery!

4. Harbor Inn (2-star hotel)

  • Address: 645 7th Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
  • Phone: (831) 479-9731
  • Ratings: 4.3 (74 reviews) Very good
  • Website : Harbor Inn
  • Check-in time: 2:00 PM
  • Check-out time: 11:00 AM
  • Quick Summary: Functional, family-run hotel with casual rooms & suites, some with kitchenettes & lofted bedrooms.

About this hotel

This relaxed, family-run hotel is a half-mile from Twin Lakes State Beach. It’s 5 miles from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk amusement park and Wilder Ranch State Park.Occupying 2 buildings, the casual, individually decorated rooms (some with shared bathrooms) have cable TV and minifridges. Some feature antique armoires, microwaves and/or breakfast nooks. The 2-story suites offer loft bedrooms with sloped ceilings, plus kitchenettes and living rooms with futons.Framed by a white picket fence, the property has gardens and a lawn with chairs. Internet access is also available.

Things You Need to Know

  • Guests praised the rooms
  • 10 min walk to Twin Lakes State Beach
  • Guests praised the service
  • Guests mentioned beaches 12 times

Feedback From Real Customers

E Graze

We had a comfortable stay Having read some of the reviews that the traffic noise on Seventh could be an issue, I asked for a quieter room We stayed in 306, which is a ground floor room in the 2nd building

Be aware that not all rooms have private bathrooms Although not listed on its website, basic toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner and body wash, and a hair dryer were provided The water pressure in the shower was awesome!

Russel Stuck

If you like a kinda rustic place to vacation with 2 teens this is the place to stay Our 2 bed loft room with futon was perfect, check in was super easy, our room was well appointed and super clean We are Vagabonds, so we don’t need a big place to stay, and once we got familiar with Santa Cruz again, we found that the Harbor Inn was conveniently located to pretty much everything we wanted to do and see

The boardwalk is about a mile away by car, Harbor Beach is within walking distance, and Days Market is close Needless to say we will be staying here again soon!

5. Santa Cruz Hostel

  • Address: 321 Main St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • Phone: (831) 423-8304
  • Ratings: 4.3 (219 reviews) Very good
  • Website : Santa Cruz Hostel
  • Check-in time: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out time: 11:00 AM
  • Quick Summary: Casual hostel set in 5 Victorian houses offering basic rooms & dorms with free WiFi.

About this hotel

Occupying 5 historic Victorian houses, this casual hostel is a 3-minute walk from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and 4.6 miles from the Mystery Spot tourist attraction.The straightforward private rooms and 4- to 6-bed mixed and single-sex dorms have shared bathrooms. WiFi is complimentary.Amenities include a common room, a community kitchen and laundry facilities, plus a garden.

Things You Need to Know

  • Guests praised the rooms and the kitchenettes
  • Walking distance to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Giant Dipper
  • Guests liked the service
  • Guests mentioned “Boardwalk” 14 times
  • Guests mentioned beaches 34 times

Feedback From Real Customers

Mary Slavin

Great proximity to boardwalk and downtown We stayed in a private room which was clean, comfy and had great light and space Kitchen was clean and accessible for anything we could have needed to fix meals

Plenty for kids to do and it was just a lovely experience to relax and talk to other travelers when not being out and about Would absolutely stay here anytime we are in Santa Cruz

Keira Cresswell

Hands down one of the nicest hostels I’ve ever stayed in Almost felt more like a retreat Peaceful, clean and safe

Close to boardwalk and downtown Close to public transport Staff were awesome Absolutely incredible place My heart hurt to leave I hope to bring my boyfriend with me next time and share the experience of Santa Cruz Hostel and amazing Santa Cruz

Rosalba Bonaccorsi

I lead a science field trip involving ten students We chose to spend one night at the historical Carmelita’s Cottages The hostel offers a combination of private cottages (dorms and rooms), and shared dorms

We stayed in private dorms All students enjoyed their stay in the beautiful hostel and are considering being back for more, including myselfThe Hostel Manager (Sara) was very helpful with our booking/registration process We got the necessary information we needed upon check-inThe only low is that it is difficult to find parking during peak season at this premier location We had to park our two vehicles only there blocks away from the Hostel However, this was worth the effort!!Cleanliness (premises, rooms, and shared areas): 5 starsStaff (Tina, Tony): 5 starsLocation: 5 starsSafety: 5 starsQuality/Cost ratio: 5 stars+

6. Ocean Pacific Lodge (2-star hotel)

  • Address: 301 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • Phone: (831) 457-1234
  • Ratings: 4.2 (564 reviews) Very good
  • Website : Ocean Pacific Lodge
  • Check-in time: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out time: 11:00 AM
  • Quick Summary: Unassuming budget hotel with an outdoor pool, plus free morning coffee, Wi-Fi & parking.

About this hotel

This unassuming budget hotel is within a mile from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Santa Cruz Wharf.Simple rooms have free Wi-Fi and satellite TV, plus minifridges, microwaves and coffeemakers. Some rooms add separate sitting areas and/or whirlpool tubs.Complimentary perks include morning coffee and parking. There’s also an outdoor pool and hot tub.

Things You Need to Know

  • Guests praised the large, clean rooms and the kitchenettes
  • Guests praised the showers
  • Walking distance to شاطئ كويل and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
  • Guests praised the friendly, professional service
  • Guests mentioned “piers” 32 times
  • One of the few hotels in the area with a hot tub
  • Guests praised the beach

Feedback From Real Customers

Chris Whipple

The staff are COVID safe during check-in and extremely helpful with everything It’s a short 5 minute walk from the beach, with a neat soccer field right next to it The rooms are basic, but way better than a regular side-of-the-highway motel for sure! They have strict noise and pool hours which was good as our room was right next to the pool

Also, plenty of parking

Irina Ganap

Dog friendly hotel, close to Boardwalk (around 5-7 minutes to walk), close to the beach We walked to Its Beach, because it is dog’s friendly, great views on the wayThe hotel itself is super clean, we were really pleased with the comfort of the mattresses

We booked 2 king suit, private rooms with shared bathroom, it was a perfect solution for our family

Rita Cox

This place was great, as usual! ! Clean room Luxurious set up, beds, bedding Every room I’ve stayed in has a microwave, tv, fridge, etc

Free Keurig coffee and maker to use Blow dryer Theres even a laundry room for guests to use Pools always clean and refreshing and hot tub perfect temp! I love staying here bc location is so close to beach and theres a yummy cafe across street too! Prices are great even for a worse location, but this is a great location We stay often

7. Mission Inn & Suites (3-star hotel)

  • Address: 2250 Mission St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • Phone: (831) 425-5455
  • Ratings: 4.3 (578 reviews) Very good
  • Website : Mission Inn & Suites
  • Check-in time: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out time: 11:00 AM
  • Quick Summary: Spanish Colonial-style lodging with straightforward rooms, free continental breakfast & a hot tub.

About this hotel

This modest Spanish Colonial-style hotel is located 1.9 miles from the Santa Cruz Wharf, 2.2 miles from the Beach Boardwalk and 2.9 miles from UC Santa Cruz.Straightforward rooms offer free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs with premium cable channels, as well as coffeemakers, microwaves and minifridges. Some have separate sitting areas and whirlpool tubs.Complimentary amenities include continental breakfast and parking. There’s also a hot tub and a sauna, as well as a European-inspired courtyard.

Things You Need to Know

  • Guests praised the beds
  • 4 min drive to Natural Bridges State Beach
  • Guests praised the friendly service
  • Guests mentioned beaches 12 times
  • Guests liked the breakfast
  • Guests liked the hot tub
  • Guests praised the spa

Feedback From Real Customers

Bruce Satow

Away from the pier and downtown, it’s less crowded and closer to UC Santa Cruz Lots of fun restaurants nearby as well as natural areas to visit It’s an older inn, but the rooms are clean and everything works

They have a little used hot tub and sauna (The sauna you need to ask to use) Parking is a bit tight for larger vehicles Breakfast is pretty nice for being continental

BryceM

ADA accessible parking at the office doesn’t exist Be careful getting out your car! Some of the spaces are extremely steep! I almost couldn’t get back into my vehicle No public bathrooms for travelers who have been driving a long distance

They said they would allow a special one time visit to the only bathroom upstairsno elevatoror you can go across the street to SAFEWAY and use their bathroom! Thanks for the ADA compliance guysyou should be fined or your ADA status revoked Oh yeahthe room was not ready yet so I had to hold it until I got into the room Room was nothing special but the ADA parking at the room was good Why do hotels think that loud bathroom fans are acceptable? Lousy TV picturehave you heard of high definition content? I could see the Hampton Inn from my room, I wish would have gone there instead!

grace starr

Parking is tight, loud dripping sound from the ceiling all night long, urine on the base of the toilet, bathroom too small in general with little space in the shower, harsh lighting, loud fan, cleaning agents leave a distinctive smell throughout the rooms (dust and hair throughout the room) good luck finding the hot tub or sauna! And bring your own coffee maker Floors are bare so bring socks or small carpets Pay the extra price and keep searching! For the price I expect better!

8. Brookdale Lodge (2-star hotel)

  • Address: 11570 Hwy 9, Brookdale, CA 95007
  • Phone: (831) 609-6010
  • Ratings: 4.3 (328 reviews) Very good
  • Website : Brookdale Lodge
  • Check-in time: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out time: 11:00 AM
  • Quick Summary: Relaxed quarters in a casual property featuring an informal lounge with a bar.

About this hotel

Surrounded by trees, this relaxed hotel off California State Route 9 is 6 miles from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and 13 miles from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.The laid-back rooms offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and exterior entrances; some have hot tubs, and/or balconies or patios with forest views. Suites add sofabeds.Parking is complimentary. There’s also a casual lounge with a bar.

Things You Need to Know

  • Guests praised the large rooms and the beds
  • 12 min drive to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
  • One of the few hotels in the area with a 24-hr front desk
  • Guests liked the friendly service, which has a concierge
  • One of the few hotels in the area with a restaurant
  • Guests praised the nightlife
  • One of the few hotels in the area with a bar

Feedback From Real Customers

Barbara Garrett

It’s getting real nice Only stayed one night, didn’t really linger, but the rooms were much nicer than they’d been, the people are friendly and helpful, and its just a wonderful setting I grew up in SLV, and miss my redwoods and the sounds of the forest and the feel of the air

This is a great place to experience it all I’d probably give 5 stars, if I’d tried the cafe or the lounge, or had simply stayed longer Cool place

Tom Roberson

Place was OK, but Restaurant and Bar were closed due to a Murder Mystery event It would have been nice to know that access would not be available before we booked the room They should have taken care of their hotel guests but they didn’t really care, it was very upsetting as we planned on dinner at the hotel and had to drive miles, ended up with a sandwich from the local market

Very romanticnot!

Jodessa Capri

This place is full of character! At first, it is a nondescript, “always being renovated “, aging motel Then, as the day goes on, the locals show up and live music starts It quickly turns into quite the happening spot

There’s a full bar, a diner, and a liquor store onsite Staff is really sweet But the pool will not be open for years, nor will the “Brook Room” Will definitely be back!

9. Best Western Plus Inn Scotts Valley (3-star hotel)

About this hotel

Set just off Highway 17, this modern, low-rise hotel is 5.7 miles from the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 7.4 miles from Santa Cruz, and 7.7 miles from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.The unassuming rooms are linked by exterior corridors and feature flat-screen TVs and free WiFi, plus minifridges and coffeemakers. Suites add whirlpool tubs and private balconies.Continental breakfast is complimentary, and there’s a seasonal outdoor pool and a hot tub.

Things You Need to Know

  • Guests praised the clean rooms and the beds
  • 9 min drive to Mystery Spot
  • Guests liked the friendly service, which has a concierge
  • Guests liked the hot tub, mentioned 20 times in reviews
  • Guests disliked the microwaves, mentioned 11 times in reviews
  • Guests praised the breakfast
  • Guests praised the outdoor pool

Feedback From Real Customers

Lisa

I’ve stayed here many times Close to freeway (real close) but quiet, safe, clean, acceptable breakfast Bed was comfortable

There are designated pet rooms (closest to freeway) Good food nearby It’s dated, windows are single pane They charge $50 per dog per night so with my two small dogs that almost doubled the price of the room Make your reservation online, the front desk is always busy Staff have been great

Bartholomew Roland

A very nice hotel right off the highway The room was clean and the bed was comfortable We also enjoyed the breakfast in the morning; the eggs, sausage, and hot sauce were nice

We only had two complaints/observations:1 I hit my head on the shower bar every time I walked into the bathroom The shower curtain is bowed out into the bathroom to create more space in the shower, but juts far into the bathroom creating a hazard A straight shower curtain bar would be better for the overall size of the bathroom2 Parking was incredibly tight The spots are small, and feel smaller when most folks staying there had trucks/vans/SUVs But beyond that, there was a single handicapped spot available We saw a van with handicap plates unable to park in the designated spot for two nights because the only spot in front was occupied (by another person with handicapped plates)

Jesse Mueller

Hotel is updated and rooms were very clean Minus 1 star because of the hotel room doors Starting at 5AM for the 2 nights I stayed, doors would slam as guest would leave and either not catch them or just spam them without care for others who are sleeping

It was a constant 2 hours of door slamming until I had to get up My room door did not have a soft close feature so I’m sure the others were the same so it’s inconsiderate guests, however this could be alleviated with door closing mechanisms Other than that, the hotel was great

10. Rio Sands Hotel (2-star hotel)

  • Address: 116 Aptos Beach Dr, Aptos, CA 95003
  • Phone: (831) 688-3207
  • Ratings: 4.2 (377 reviews) Very good
  • Website : Rio Sands Hotel
  • Check-in time: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out time: 11:00 AM
  • Quick Summary: Warm rooms & suites, plus a heated outdoor pool, a hot tub, BBQs & free continental breakfast.

About this hotel

A 2-minute walk from Rio Del Mar State Beach, this straightforward hotel set in a residential neighborhood is 8 miles from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.Homey rooms have free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, plus microwaves, minifridges and coffeemakers. Upgraded rooms offer furnished patios or balconies. Suites add sitting areas or separate living rooms (most with sofabeds); some feature bunk beds and/or kitchens or kitchenettes.Complimentary amenities include parking, and continental breakfast served in an airy dining room, which has a fireplace. There’s also a heated outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a picnic area with seating and BBQ facilities.

Things You Need to Know

  • 13 min walk to Seacliff State Beach
  • Guests liked the service
  • One of the few hotels in the area with an outdoor pool
  • One of the few hotels in the area with a hot tub
  • Guests praised the beach

Feedback From Real Customers

Henry Woods

The sheets did not fit the bed We paid so much to stay at this hotel We stayed two nights

I informed the front desk that the sheets did not fit the bed the first night and asked them to replace them with some that did The second night was the same Buy deep pocketed sheets If you are going to charge more than the Biltmore to stay at your hotel, show your guests enough respect and buy sheets that actually fit your beds Come on you can do better than that Oh and there’s no mirror that you can actually use to get ready

Paula Neider

My husband and his son stayed here for approximately 21 days They loved their stay until the motel refused to refund his security deposit They never called him, it was on his cc stmnt

and he called them They stated they smoked in the room and burned the bed He has never smoked in his 69 years and his son always left the property to smoke My husband hates cigarette smoke and everyone who knows him, knows that We don’t understand and frankly, we know it’s false Not only will we never stay here again, we will tell everyone we know not to stay here and why Super sad!

Sacramento Honey

The 2⭐ rating must be a typo The Rio Sands Hotel is a four star hotel to me I was expecting low budget and was exceedingly ecstatic at how nice the hotel truly is in person

The check-in staff made it easy and I was in my room in no time The rooms are spacious and feature several modern amenities There was a microwave, fridge, coffee maker, mini fridge, free Wi-Fi, a sitting area with a sliding glass door to the patio, a flat screen TV and a comfy bed You’ll also find outdoor amenities Such as, a heated pool, hot tub and a BBQ area with a hammock The location of the beach is the best part It’s only a 3 minute walk from the outside of the garden area gate While visiting the Aptos area, be sure to check out the historic mission church and the quaint downtown area Plus, there are some great breweries and BBQ in the area I would recommend bringing your own hair dryer My hair kept getting sucked into the dryer 🌊👙🏖️ IG: SACRAMENTOHONEY

11. Pacific Blue Inn (3-star hotel)

  • Address: 636 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • Phone: (831) 600-8880
  • Ratings: 4.4 (122 reviews) Very good
  • Website : Pacific Blue Inn
  • Check-in time: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out time: 11:00 AM
  • Quick Summary: Hip B&B offering rooms with local artwork & bamboo floors, plus free loaner bikes & on-site parking.

About this hotel

This hip, 3-story B&B is a half-mile from the Neary Lagoon Park wildlife refuge and 10 blocks from the bike path and surfing at West Cliff Drive.Colorful rooms with chic, minimalist furnishings and local artwork feature electric fireplaces and bamboo flooring, plus free Wi-Fi and 37-inch flat-screen HDTVs with DVD players.Amenities include energy-efficient lighting and appliances, a DVD and board game library, and free parking and loaner bikes. Full hot breakfast is typically included with the room rate. There’s also an elevator, and a shaded courtyard with gas fire pits and funky wooden seating.

Things You Need to Know

  • Guests praised the large, clean rooms and the beds
  • Guests praised the bathrooms
  • Walking distance to the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
  • Guests praised the service

Feedback From Real Customers

M E

This is the spot Great location in downtown Santa Cruz Walking distance to beach, Boardwalk, wharf, shopping, restaurants, bars, Metro station, West Cliff Drive and other neighborhoods

They have bikes you can borrow if you feel like taking a ride There’s a full commercial kitchen at your disposal Excellent rooms with high ceilings, comfortable beds, ample seating, awesome bathroom and shower, smart TV There’s a quiet outside common area with a gas fire pit and a serious laid back vibe It’s like a love child of Santa Cruz and a boutique European inn Late check outs are ENCOURAGED And you can check yourself in via text with the manager if you’re going to arrive after they’ve left for the day It feels very exclusive and like you’re part of the secret And the staff are incredible I cannot say enough about how awesome this place is Definitely worth the higher room rate without question- but please keep this little hidden gem the amazing place that it is by being respectful to the property and guests and enjoy your stay at the best rooms in Santa Cruz

John Spencer

Great spot, quiet, clean, free bikes to ride, kitchen is open for use Calvin was super friendly at the desk, gave us directions, made us feel welcome Stayed here with my girlfriend on a west coast trip

If you’re staying in Santa Cruz, try this place Awesome breakfast spot down the street The patio & firepit ended up being perfect place to hang for an hour with my girl before going out Best hotel on our trip in her opinion, she told her friends

Tony Ruiz

Location is perfect Don’t need to pay for parking- plenty of parking on the street If you’re here to enjoy Santa Cruz this location is well situated

Most things are walking distance especially on Pacific Ave If you walk the opposite direction you get to the boardwalk in less than 10 minutes Bed is welcoming and comfortable after a long day This place is not a typical hotel where you have a pool or continental breakfast, but my wife and I weren’t needing that We have places in Santa Cruz we like eating at and most are easily accessible in a short walk Another thing this place has is despite being small (9 rooms) it is handicap friendly

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HotelsCombined

12. Hyatt Place Santa Cruz (3-star hotel)

  • Address: 407 Broadway, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • Phone: (831) 226-2300
  • Ratings: 4.3 (516 reviews) Very good
  • Website : Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
  • Check-in time: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out time: 11:00 AM
  • Quick Summary: Relaxed rooms & suites in a contemporary hotel featuring an outdoor pool & a cafe/bar.

About this hotel

On a leafy residential street, this modern hotel is a 14-minute walk from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk amusement park and a mile from Highway 1.Relaxed rooms offer sofabeds, as well as free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Suites add separate living and dining areas. Room service is available.A breakfast buffet is served in an informal dining room. There’s also a laid-back cafe/bar and a mini-market, in addition to an outdoor pool and a gym. Valet parking is extra.

Things You Need to Know

  • Guests praised the beds
  • Walking distance to the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
  • Guests mentioned “Boardwalk” 35 times
  • The fitness center has weight machines and free weights
  • One of the few hotels in the area with a hot tub
  • Guests praised the outdoor pool
  • One of the few hotels in the area with a bar

Feedback From Real Customers

David Weintraub

Like all Hyatt Places it’s clean and efficient Staff is nice Parking is an extra $15

You literally hear every door in the hotel slam And believe me they slam In room phone didn’t work No blanket on pullout bed and they never brought one up after asking 3 times Elevator may need a key, may not You don’t really know if it’s working Kinda weird But location to boardwalk and food is good All walkable Suites are really just large rooms with no cutoff walls Odd design Probably 4/5 based on value but still, every Damn Door

Nini Nini

Check in was smooth as well as our 2 day stay The hotel was well kept and very clean On our first full day we came back to a clean room which took me by surprise because I was told at check in that we wouldn’t receive house keeping since we’re staying less than 5 days

But it was much needed since my kiddies decided to feed the floor their crumbs Breakfast was limited but it was appetizing Valet along with the cleanliness of our room and hotel is why I would book her again in the future

Hollis Folts

Very friendly, very service oriented,The TV did not turn on, one call to the front desk and in 5min cable box was reset and we had local news and of course Shark TankThe cont breakfast was better than if I was Home

Very much liked the choicesLarge room with very comfortable sofa and very clean restroomI’m not a High Roller but I felt like one this week I don’t know what 5 stars is YET but let’s go 45 for now

13. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Santa Cruz, an IHG Hotel (2-star hotel)

About this hotel

Around the corner from Grant Park, this casual chain hotel is also 2 miles from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and 6.3 miles from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.The standard rooms come with desks, free WiFi and flat-screen TVs with premium cable channels. There are also coffeemakers and daily newspapers, while kids 19 and under stay free with an adult. Suites add separate living spaces with pull-out sofas, plus minifridges and microwaves.Amenities include a free breakfast bar and a heated outdoor pool, a 24/7 business center and fitness facilities, as well as a meeting room and 1 free parking space per reservation.

Things You Need to Know

  • The rooms have TVs and coffee makers
  • 6 min drive to the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History
  • One of the few hotels in the area with a restaurant
  • Guests mentioned “Boardwalk” 12 times

Feedback From Real Customers

Deborah Barta

NO free parking, that is frustrating when nothing was indicating it was Truck collecting trash is extremely noise right about 4am It feels like an earthquake is happening, this goes on for 40 min at least

Reserved room wasn’t clean, it was very clear when I checked the bathroom Staff was courteous and moved us to another room It was clean, both rooms were not the best of the chain For the price paid I DO NOT recommend, look somewhere else

Kathy Condon

We knew we wouldn’t be on the beach In fact, not easy feat getting a hotel on the water’s edge in this areaOur hotel was an easy off 101 and was meant to be just an overnight stop

Though if going to Santa Cruz again I would definitely stay hereeven had garage parkingComplimentary breakfast will sustain you for lunch Fresh fruit was a welcomed sight

jasmine thomas

Fair warning since the website is not updated- pool is under constructionTypically, I do not leave reviews because previously working in hospitality industry I understand things happen and not everything is perfect each time you stay in hotel This time though left me in disbelief

We were there for short trip to beach On our 2nd night about 8:45 PM our smoke detector began to chirp Called the front desk, her response I’ll call you back Mind you I explained what was happening, clearly just a simple battery needed to be changed She called me back, so is there smoke in the room?! I again explained no the battery is dying She stated well there is nothing I can do I don’t have access to a room with a ladder but to be honest not sure how to do it Maybe at 11 when the next guy comes in he can help I said so I need to sleep through the chirp going off every 30 seconds? (I had video and timed it by this time) She said yeah I asked for the manager to call me At around 10 PM same front desk gal calls back said here are your options 1) move to a King one bed room (my room 2 queen, I needed the two beds) 2) stay in the room and deal with it or 3) Be escorted off the property I said I’ll call you back and hung up! Keeping it in mind I had my 3 children it was 10 PM and not knowing where would we go, I decided to keep TV on and do our best to drown out the chirp!Woke up the next day full assuming since I didn’t change rooms and had voiced the problem we were having that the hotel would have maintenance take care of this for us that next day That did not happen! In fear of being “escorted” off the property, I decided to not push then envelope with this problem, to keep quite and finish out stay without further interaction with the staffI am still in disbelief that a simple battery change in a smoke detector escalated to being escorted off the property or deal with it mentality I think the GM Devin Smith needs to sit back and rethink how she approaches each situation at her hotel This was an easy fix that clearly was just not worth their time or effort in their eyesDo better Holiday Inn Santa Cruz it was a simple 10 minute fix yet you rather let your guests have 2 days of non stop chirping everything 30 seconds because it’s just to much to change a battery!

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