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Santa Cruz, CA accommodations
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844 Lodgings in Santa Cruz, CA

Find the Best Seaside Lodgings in Santa Cruz, CA

Unwind at these welcoming seaside accommodations in Santa Cruz, CA, perfectly situated for exploring local coastal sights and catching fresh sea breezes.

The Point House Steps To Pleasure Point! - Santa Cruz, CA
10 1 review

The Point House Steps To Pleasure Point!

apartment, Twin Lakes
This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo on East Cliff Drive in Pleasure Point, Twin Lakes, offers direct access to world-famous surf breaks and scenic bluff-top walking paths, placing you mere steps from iconic surf corridors and coastal views. This residence accommodates up to 6 guests and features a kitchen with a fridge, freezer, microwave, and dishwasher, alongside a private garden and Jacuzzi, providing the ultimate California beach lifestyle with nearby cafes and East Cliff Drive attractions.

Best family friendly Santa Cruz, CA lodging

Among the 844 accommodations in Santa Cruz, CA, here are the 4 best for families

7 Houses From The Ocean - Pleasure Point Surf! - Santa Cruz, CA
9.7 256 reviews

7 Houses From The Ocean - Pleasure Point Surf!

apartment, Twin Lakes
This vacation home in Eastside Santa Cruz is just a short walk from the tranquil Santa Maria's Beach and a short drive from the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. It has excellent user, location, and cleanliness ratings.
With 3 bedrooms and 2150 square feet of floor area, this vacation home comfortably accommodates groups or families of up to 9 guests. It features a private garden, barbecue grills, a fitness center, a cozy fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, and free WiFi.
Home Away From Home | New Hot Tub & Fire Pit - Santa Cruz, CA
10 63 reviews

Home Away From Home | New Hot Tub & Fire Pit

apartment, Twin Lakes
This Surfside Retreat, a two-bedroom, two-bathroom vacation rental in Santa Cruz's Pleasure Point district, offers easy access to Pleasure Point beach, perfect for surfing.
The 2-bedroom home sleeps six guests comfortably and boasts a fully equipped kitchen, Jacuzzi, outdoor fire pit, BBQ, beach gear, bikes, smart TVs, and three parking spaces—two on-site and one on the street.
Charming Light-filled Carriage House Apartment - Santa Cruz, CA
10 342 reviews

Charming Light-filled Carriage House Apartment

house, Santa Cruz
This 1928 carriage house apartment is located just a 5-minute walk from Santa Cruz's popular beaches, the Boardwalk, wharf, and downtown, making it a convenient base for exploring the city. The apartment has consistently received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The apartment has two bedrooms and one bathroom, comfortably accommodating up to four guests. Enjoy a private garden space, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, freezer, and microwave, plus free internet and parking.
Mitchell's Cove Beach House - Santa Cruz, CA
9.8 54 reviews

Mitchell's Cove Beach House

apartment, Santa Cruz
This single-level house is located in Westside Santa Cruz, just a short walk from Mitchell's Cove Beach and a 1.5-mile walk from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, making it a great spot for exploring the area. This vacation rental has received excellent user ratings, making it a popular choice for travelers.
This 1500-square-foot house can accommodate up to 6 guests with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The house is equipped with a fully equipped kitchen, a fireplace, a private fenced backyard with a patio and lawn, and a private front courtyard perfect for outdoor dining.

Frequently Asked Questions about accommodations in Santa Cruz, CA

  • What are the top attractions and must-see sites in Santa Cruz, CA?

    Santa Cruz is full of things to see! You have to check out the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, with its classic rides and the Giant Dipper roller coaster. The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is a great place to learn about the local ecosystem, and the Mystery Spot is a fun, quirky attraction that will make you question gravity. Of course, you can't miss the iconic Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, which celebrates the history of surfing in the area.
  • What are the best accommodations in Santa Cruz, CA?

    Among the accommodations in Santa Cruz, CA, Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, Lovely Retreat Nestled In The Woods and Private Seabright Garden Apartment are the most popular ones.

  • Which cultural festivals and seasonal events should visitors attend in Santa Cruz, CA?

    Santa Cruz has a vibrant event scene! The Santa Cruz Wharf Festival in September is a big one, with live music, art, and food vendors. The West Cliff Drive Art & Wine Festival in August is a great way to enjoy local art and wine. If you're visiting during the holidays, the Christmas in the Park celebration is a must-see, with light displays and festive activities.
  • What are the best accommodations with a pool in Santa Cruz, CA?

  • What are the most convenient modes of transportation within Santa Cruz, CA?

    Santa Cruz is pretty walkable, especially downtown and the beach area. You can also easily get around using the Santa Cruz Metro bus system. If you want to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car is a good option. There are also bike paths throughout the city, making it a great place to explore on two wheels.
  • What are the best accommodations with a jacuzzi in Santa Cruz, CA?

    The best accommodations with a jacuzzi in Santa Cruz, CA are Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola, Inn At Depot Hill and Beach Street Inn And Suites.

  • What outdoor activities and adventures are popular in and around Santa Cruz, CA?

    Santa Cruz is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Surfing is a must-do, especially at Steamer Lane. You can hike or bike along the coastal trails, like the Coastal Walkway or the Natural Bridges State Beach. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular activities in the Monterey Bay. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even go whale watching or scuba diving.
  • What are the best accommodations for families and kids in Santa Cruz, CA?

  • What types of accommodations are available in Santa Cruz, CA?

    You'll find a variety of accommodations in Santa Cruz, from budget-friendly motels to luxurious hotels. There are also plenty of vacation rentals, including houses, condos, and apartments. If you're looking for something unique, consider staying at the historic Hotel Paradox or the Sea and Sand Inn.
  • What are the best pet friendly accommodations in Santa Cruz, CA?

    The best pet friendly accommodations in Santa Cruz, CA are Lovely Retreat Nestled In The Woods, Pacific Blue Inn and Roomy Downtown 4b+ House Walk To Beach Boardwalk.

  • When is the best time to visit Santa Cruz, CA?

    Santa Cruz is great year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer, from June to August. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities. If you're looking for a more affordable trip, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, spring or fall, when the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower.
  • What are the best accommodations with parking in Santa Cruz, CA?

  • What local dishes and culinary experiences are a must-try in Santa Cruz, CA?

    Santa Cruz has a vibrant food scene! You have to try the fresh seafood, especially the Dungeness crab. The local breweries are also worth checking out, with many serving up craft beers. If you're looking for something sweet, be sure to grab a slice of the famous Santa Cruz Pie Company's apple pie.
  • In which part of Santa Cruz, CA should you consider renting accommodation?

    The best place to stay depends on what you're looking for. If you want to be close to the beach and the boardwalk, the downtown area is a good choice. For a quieter experience, consider staying in the Seabright neighborhood, which has charming Victorian homes and a more residential feel. If you're on a budget, the Westside area offers more affordable options.

Popular destinations

Our Favorite Lodgings with a Pool in Santa Cruz, CA

These lodgings in Santa Cruz, CA include a swimming pool, the perfect way to complement a day by the water.

Chaminade Resort & Spa - Santa Cruz, CA
8.1 1339 reviews

Chaminade Resort & Spa

resort, Live Oak
Chaminade Resort & Spa is a mountain resort located in Live Oak, 3.1 miles from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Pacific Avenue, offering a secluded escape in the Santa Cruz range. This hotel features a year-round outdoor pool, BBQ facilities, two on-site restaurants, and complimentary WiFi, with spacious rooms that include air conditioning and private bathrooms, and the area is popular for golfing and is a 45-minute drive to Monterey Bay.
Beach, Pool, Gym, Wifieverything Included. - Santa Cruz, CA
10 3 reviews

Beach, Pool, Gym, Wifieverything Included.

apartment, Twin Lakes
This apartment is located two blocks from Twin Lakes Beach, surrounded by parks and trails, offering a cozy ambiance and a unique opportunity to enjoy nature. With an excellent user rating, the apartment offers a practical and contemporary living space, featuring an open concept design, modern amenities, and a fully equipped kitchen. It has one bedroom, one bathroom, and a guest capacity of two, making it ideal for couples or small families. Guests can enjoy the swimming pool, garden, and spa, as well as access to a nearby gym, school, restaurants, and shops.
Spacious Santa Cruz Beach Home, Walk To The Ocean, Game Room, Pet Friendly! - Santa Cruz, CA
9.6 354 reviews

Spacious Santa Cruz Beach Home, Walk To The Ocean, Game Room, Pet Friendly!

apartment, Twin Lakes
This spacious 6-bedroom house is located in the Eastside Santa Cruz neighborhood, just steps from the popular Twin Lakes Beach. The house has received an excellent user rating and can accommodate up to 18 guests in its 4,000 square feet of living space.
The house features a game room with beach toys, Foosball, and Ping Pong, as well as a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, tennis court, and spa. It also has a fully equipped kitchen, two HD LCD TVs, high-speed internet, and an outdoor hot water shower. The house is also pet-friendly, allowing up to two dogs.
Ocean View
1 Block From The Beach
 Family Friendly - Santa Cruz, CA
9.8 306 reviews

Ocean View 1 Block From The Beach Family Friendly

apartment, Twin Lakes
This charming cottage is located in Santa Cruz, just a short 3-minute walk from the beach and offering stunning views of the ocean and lagoon. It consistently receives excellent ratings for cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The 1910 square foot cottage comfortably accommodates eight guests in its two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It offers a spacious layout with a fully equipped kitchen, a fireplace, a split-level deck with a fire pit and barbecue, and modern amenities including a plasma TV, washer and dryer, and super-fast WiFi.

Neighborhoods and points of interest in Santa Cruz, CA

Best Santa Cruz, CA accommodation with a kitchen

Studio Cruz - One Mile To Sunny Cove Beach! - Santa Cruz, CA
9.9 243 reviews

Studio Cruz - One Mile To Sunny Cove Beach!

studio, Live Oak
Studio Cruz, a private garage apartment in Live Oak, offers a fully furnished unit with a queen-sized bed, kitchenette, and private bathroom.
This Live Oak getaway boasts a fenced yard, parking, Wi-Fi, Netflix, a Sonos sound system, and accommodates two guests; note that pets reside on the property.
Classic Santa Cruz Getaway! - Santa Cruz, CA
9.5 114 reviews

Classic Santa Cruz Getaway!

apartment, Santa Cruz
This Santa Cruz apartment is located a half block from West Cliff Drive, a block from the wharf and beach, and within walking distance of the boardwalk, Lighthouse Surf Museum, and downtown. It has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and user experience.
The townhouse is spread across three levels, accommodating up to eight guests. It offers a private gated community with a communal swimming pool and hot tub, a well-equipped kitchen, a gas fireplace, two Ultra HDTVs, a game room, a covered balcony with a propane BBQ, a one-car garage, and street parking.
Studio Suite 9 - Santa Cruz, CA
9.8 18 reviews

Studio Suite 9

studio, Twin Lakes
The Swell House, a boutique hotel in Twin Lakes, Santa Cruz, is located 200 yards from Blacks Beach and the Sunday Farmers Market, and within walking distance of the harbor, Twin Lakes Beach, Sunny Cove Beach, and a Starbucks.
This pet-friendly (one well-trained pet allowed) guesthouse offers newly renovated studio suites with king-sized beds, fully equipped kitchens (gas stovetop, refrigerator, microwave), and provides beach toys, towels, boogie boards, and beach tents; it accommodates two guests and features beach-chic decor with hardwood floors.
Seabright Breeze - Santa Cruz, CA
10 1 review

Seabright Breeze

apartment, Santa Cruz
Seabright Breeze apartment in Santa Cruz is conveniently located near Santa Cruz Beach (an 11-minute walk) and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (0.7 miles), offering easy access to UC Santa Cruz and other attractions.
This 850-square-foot, two-bedroom unit sleeps six guests and features a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, air conditioning, a private patio, free Wi-Fi, and on-site parking.

Best Santa Cruz, CA accommodation with a balcony

Manresa Surf House 1 Bed Upstairs Unit #4 - Santa Cruz, CA
8.4 10 reviews

Manresa Surf House 1 Bed Upstairs Unit #4

apartment, La Selva Beach
Santa Cruz Retreat Near Beach With Free Parking - Santa Cruz, CA
8.0 1 review

Santa Cruz Retreat Near Beach With Free Parking

apartment, Santa Cruz
Dog-friendly Cottage Near Premier Surf Beach - Santa Cruz, CA
9.5 190 reviews

Dog-friendly Cottage Near Premier Surf Beach

apartment, Twin Lakes
Butterfly Beach House - Santa Cruz, CA
10 7 reviews

Butterfly Beach House

apartment, Twin Lakes

Popular Luxury Lodgings in Santa Cruz, CA

For those who appreciate quality, a high-end lodging near the water in Santa Cruz, CA delivers excellence in every detail.

Westside Oasis In The Heart Of Town - Santa Cruz, CA
10 62 reviews

Westside Oasis In The Heart Of Town

apartment, Santa Cruz

Check Out Pet-Friendly Lodgings in Santa Cruz, CA

These dog-friendly lodgings in Santa Cruz, CA prioritize your pet's comfort so you can enjoy the coast together.

Pet Friendly Pleasure Point Home - Santa Cruz, CA
9.8 49 reviews

Pet Friendly Pleasure Point Home

apartment, Capitola
Seabright Breeze - Santa Cruz, CA
9.8 37 reviews

Seabright Breeze

apartment, Santa Cruz
Beachfront At Twin Lakes Beach - Santa Cruz, CA
9.4 41 reviews

Beachfront At Twin Lakes Beach

apartment, Twin Lakes
Luxury Ocean View - Hot Tub -Yacht Harbor & Beach - Santa Cruz, CA
10 3 reviews

Luxury Ocean View - Hot Tub -Yacht Harbor & Beach

apartment, Twin Lakes

Compare Accommodations with On-Site Dining in Santa Cruz, CA

A lodging with a restaurant in Santa Cruz, CA ensures fresh local food and coastal dishes are always on the menu.

Westside Oasis In The Heart Of Town - Santa Cruz, CA
10 62 reviews

Westside Oasis In The Heart Of Town

apartment, Santa Cruz
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