

The Best Places to Stay in Santa Cruz For a charming inn Book a room at one of the best places to stay in Santa Cruz and sink into the mellow charms of this blissful seaside town. Both a bohemian surf spot and a youthful university town, Santa Cruz brims with things for sandy-toed travellers to see and do. If you're keen to experience a nearby city, San Jose is perfect for a day trip.īack in the city, you’ll find quirky boutiques and vintage shops aplenty, a wide selection of lively eateries showcasing fresh Californian produce, and an eclectic array of annual events.


Venture into the Santa Cruz Mountains to explore the Big Basin Redwoods State Park, and to visit the region’s fabulous wineries. There’s stacks of family-friendly fun to be had at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk too, complete with arcade games and a wooden roller coaster. Hop aboard a boat to spot whales out at sea, try kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, or kit up and join the locals fishing off century-old Santa Cruz Wharf - an impressive 823 metres long. Steamer Lane and Pleasure Point are popular, but depending on your surfing prowess, you’ll find some swells better suited than others - speak to the team at your hotel for the best seasonal recommendations! Look out for annual surfing contests, too, which promise a great atmosphere and a joyful buzz. Hit the many beaches for days of sunbathing, building sand castles and catching the waves. Many of the best places to stay in Santa Cruz are intimate inns with lots of character, but one of our favourite hotels is a bigger, retro-cool spot right on the beach. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with everything from simple B&Bs to impressive seafront hotels. Originally a surf town, Santa Cruz is a brilliant Californian destination for families, groups or couples looking for nature-focused fun and an easygoing vibe.
