Places to stay in Santa Cruz, CA

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Santa Cruz, CA place to stay
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844 Best places to stay in Santa Cruz, CA

Best Santa Cruz, CA lodgings with a pool

Among the 844 accommodations in Santa Cruz, CA, here are the 4 best ones with a pool

Ocean View ~ Steps To The Beach  ~ Family Ohana Friendly - Santa Cruz, CA
9.8 306 reviews

Ocean View ~ Steps To The Beach ~ Family Ohana Friendly

apartment, Twin Lakes
This charming cottage is situated just a short 3-minute stroll from the beach in Santa Cruz, offering stunning ocean views from its decks and kitchen. It has consistently received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and user experience.
The property provides a spacious and comfortable living space, spanning 177 square metres and accommodating up to 8 guests. Enjoy the fully equipped kitchen, relaxing fireplace, private garden, and swimming pool, perfect for a memorable family getaway.
Spacious Santa Cruz Beach Home, Walk To The Ocean, Game Room, Pet Friendly! - Santa Cruz, CA
9.6 360 reviews

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

apartment, Twin Lakes
This spacious house is located just steps from Twin Lakes Beach in Eastside Santa Cruz, offering a prime location close to the Santa Cruz Harbor, restaurants, and shops. The property has received excellent user ratings and is perfect for families and groups looking for a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the area.
The property spans over 372 square metres and comfortably accommodates up to 18 guests. The house features a fully equipped kitchen, a dedicated game room, multiple decks with views, a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a garden, a spa, a tennis court, and parking.
Blacks Beach Retreat,wi-fi, Near Harbor & Steps To Twin Lakes Beach! - Santa Cruz, CA
10 236 reviews

Blacks Beach Retreat,wi-fi, Near Harbor & Steps To Twin Lakes Beach!

apartment, Twin Lakes
This apartment is located in Eastside Santa Cruz, just a short walk from the private end of Twin Lakes Beach and within easy reach of the Harbour, Crow's Nest restaurant, Como di Lago Italian restaurant, and The Kind Grind Coffee Shop. The apartment is rated excellent by previous guests and offers a fantastic base for exploring the area.
This two-bedroom, three-bathroom home spans 130 square metres and comfortably accommodates up to six guests. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a private terrace, a swimming pool, a spa, and direct beach access, making it perfect for families and groups looking for a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
Beautiful Beach Vacation Condo - Santa Cruz, CA
9.6 10 reviews

Beautiful Beach Vacation Condo

apartment, Twin Lakes
This two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment at Twin Lakes State Beach offers convenient access to local restaurants and Twin Lakes State Beach, all within walking distance.
The 2-bedroom condo sleeps five, features a fully equipped kitchen, lagoon-view balcony, access to a swimming pool, fitness centre, and BBQ areas, plus provided boogie boards and beach toys; its proximity to the Boardwalk adds further appeal.

Best family friendly Santa Cruz, CA lodging

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

Santa Cruz Comfort - Close Clean Convenient - Santa Cruz, CA
9.9 567 reviews

Santa Cruz Comfort - Close Clean Convenient

apartment, Santa Cruz
This apartment is located in a family-friendly neighbourhood in central Santa Cruz, just a few kilometres from downtown, the beach, and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. The apartment has excellent user, location, and cleanliness ratings, making it a popular choice for travellers. This two-bedroom, one-bathroom dwelling has enough space for up to six guests, perfect for families or groups of friends. The apartment comes equipped with a kitchen, laundry facilities, three smart TVs, a Blu-ray player, free Wi-Fi, and a key-coded entrance for your privacy and security.
Beach Lodge - Santa Cruz, CA
9.1 30 reviews

Beach Lodge

house, Twin Lakes
This Twin Lakes holiday home is situated near Sunny Cove Beach, 4km from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and 5.6km from the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse.
Sleeping up to 11 guests, this self-catering property boasts 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, private parking, a garden, and a patio; enjoy easy beach access and explore nearby attractions.
Harbor Home - 2 Blocks From The Beach! - Santa Cruz, CA
10 21 reviews

Harbor Home - 2 Blocks From The Beach!

apartment, Twin Lakes
This Eastside Santa Cruz holiday home, less than 1.6km from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Harbour Beach, and approximately 4.8km from Monterey Bay, offers convenient access to local attractions.
Sleeping seven guests, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom property boasts a fully equipped kitchen, fireplace, washing machine, barbecue, balcony, garden, parking, and excellent guest reviews; internet access is also provided.
2 Bdrm Bungalow 3 Blocks From The Beach - Santa Cruz, CA
10 345 reviews

2 Bdrm Bungalow 3 Blocks From The Beach

bungalow, Live Oak
This Live Oak yacht charter is conveniently located just under 0.5 km from Twin Lakes State Beach, Yacht Harbour, and Crow's Nest restaurant, with the Live Oak Boardwalk approximately 1.3 km away.
Sleeping up to five guests, this two-bedroom, two-bathroom vessel boasts a fully enclosed landscaped yard, deck with BBQ and fireplace, and includes all mod cons such as air conditioning, a dishwasher, and Wi-Fi; pets are welcome for a fee.

Frequently asked questions about accommodations in Santa Cruz, CA

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

    Santa Cruz is a walkable city, especially around the downtown area and the Boardwalk. The Santa Cruz Metro bus system is a good option for getting around, and you can also rent bikes or scooters. If you're driving, be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season.
  • 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.

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

    Santa Cruz is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go surfing at the world-famous Steamer Lane, explore the redwood forests of Big Basin Redwoods State Park, hike the trails at the Santa Cruz Mountains, or kayak in Monterey Bay. For a unique experience, visit the Mystery Spot, a gravitational anomaly.
  • What are the best accommodations with a pool in Santa Cruz, CA?

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

    The best time to visit Santa Cruz depends on your preferences. Summer (June-August) is the warmest and busiest time, with ideal weather for beach activities. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. If you enjoy winter activities, you can visit during the winter months (December-February), but be prepared for some rain.
  • 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 local dishes and culinary experiences are a must-try in Santa Cruz, CA?

    Santa Cruz has a vibrant culinary scene, with fresh seafood being a highlight. Try the famous cioppino at a local restaurant, or sample fresh oysters at the Santa Cruz Wharf. Don't miss the local craft breweries and wineries, offering unique tastes of the region. For a sweet treat, try the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk's cotton candy.
  • What are the best accommodations for families and kids in Santa Cruz, CA?

  • In which part of Santa Cruz, CA should you consider renting accommodation?

    The best area to stay in Santa Cruz depends on your interests. If you want to be close to the beach and the Boardwalk, consider staying in the downtown area or near the West Cliff Drive. For a quieter experience, you can choose a hotel or rental in the Seabright or Capitola Village areas. If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider the areas around the University of California, Santa Cruz.
  • 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.

  • What are the best accommodations with parking in Santa Cruz, CA?

Popular destinations

Best Santa Cruz, CA accommodations with a balcony

Modern Coastal Escape - Walking Distance To Beach! - Santa Cruz, CA
10 4 reviews

Modern Coastal Escape - Walking Distance To Beach!

apartment, Twin Lakes
This Santa Cruz apartment, situated in the Eastside district, offers easy access to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a short walk away.
The 'Modern Coastal Escape' property boasts 111 square metres of living space, featuring two bedrooms, three bathrooms, sleeping up to five guests, and a fully equipped kitchen including a dishwasher, and a terrace plus garden.
Great Home!  Great Beach!  Great Location! - Santa Cruz, CA
10 249 reviews

Great Home! Great Beach! Great Location!

apartment, Santa Cruz
This Santa Cruz property is situated in a pleasant neighbourhood, just 1.5 kilometres from the beach, the harbour, and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. It boasts excellent user, location, and cleanliness ratings.
The spacious holiday home offers 3 bedrooms, accommodating up to 8 guests, and spans 167 square metres. Guests can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, a terrace, a garden, a spa, parking, and a garage stocked with beach essentials.
Spacious 8-bedroom House In Charming Santa Cruz On West Cliff - Santa Cruz, CA
10 1 review

Spacious 8-bedroom House In Charming Santa Cruz On West Cliff

apartment, Santa Cruz
This historic bed and breakfast is located in Westside Santa Cruz, directly opposite Cowells Beach and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, offering immediate access to these iconic attractions.
This expansive 1+ acre property features 8 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, accommodating up to 16 guests with amenities including internet and air conditioning, and is ideal for hosting events or enjoying a coastal getaway.
Beachfront At Twin Lakes Beach - Santa Cruz, CA
9.4 41 reviews

Beachfront At Twin Lakes Beach

apartment, Twin Lakes
This charming apartment is located in Eastside Santa Cruz, just a short walk from the beautiful Twin Lakes State Beach and a short bike ride from the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. It has received excellent user ratings, making it a popular choice for travellers seeking a peaceful getaway.
This one-bedroom apartment, with a floor area of 56 square metres, can comfortably accommodate up to four guests. The apartment is equipped with a fully equipped kitchen, a private terrace, a garden, and parking, making it a perfect choice for families or groups.

Best Santa Cruz, CA accommodations with a kitchen

Sunlit Surf Guest House Downtown (1bd/1ba) - Santa Cruz, CA
9.8 442 reviews

Sunlit Surf Guest House Downtown (1bd/1ba)

apartment, Santa Cruz
This charming apartment is just a stone's throw from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Wharf, and West Cliff Drive, making it ideal for exploring the vibrant heart of Santa Cruz. It consistently receives excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The apartment is a private back house, offering a tranquil retreat from the bustle of the city. Guests have access to a range of amenities, including beach cruisers, surfboards, and a fully equipped kitchen, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Twin Lakes Hideaway: Beachfront Property - Santa Cruz, CA
10 1 review

Twin Lakes Hideaway: Beachfront Property

apartment, Twin Lakes
This three-bedroom flat is situated in Santa Cruz's Eastside district, offering a prime waterfront position just 720 metres from Twin Lakes State Beach and 960 metres from Sunny Cove Beach, with on-site parking provided.
This residence accommodates up to six guests and features a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, a balcony with a barbecue, and an in-unit washer and dryer, ideal for those seeking a self-catered stay near the coast.
Cozy Garden Westside King Suite 
Str18-0122 - Santa Cruz, CA
9.9 788 reviews

Cozy Garden Westside King Suite Str18-0122

house, Santa Cruz
This Santa Cruz self-catering apartment is situated in the historic Old Town district, conveniently close to numerous attractions and amenities.
The one-bedroom apartment sleeps two guests, features a king-size bed, well-equipped kitchenette (including microwave, fridge and dishwasher), private garden, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast items; a laundromat is nearby.
Twin Lakes Seaside Retreat - Santa Cruz, CA
9.8 35 reviews

Twin Lakes Seaside Retreat

apartment, Twin Lakes
This Twin Lakes holiday home is situated a two-minute walk from Twin Lakes Beach, less than 0.2 kilometres from the ocean, and a short stroll from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the town centre.
The 120 sq m property offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms, sleeps six, and includes a fully equipped kitchen, smart TV, parking, and 24/7 external security cameras.
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