Top 38 Cheap Hotels in Santa Cruz, 2026. Rooms from US$40/night

Santa Cruz features the famous Boardwalk, Natural Bridges State Beach, and the lush trails of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. You can enjoy surfing at Cowell Beach or relax at Seabright State Beach. The city offers a range of cheap hotels, beachfront hotels, and boutique hotels that cater to different budgets and tastes. Our hand-picked selection highlights the best accommodations near the university and those with stunning ocean views. Book early during summer and events like the Santa Cruz Beach Festival to secure the best stays, and consider using ride-sharing for convenience.

1-20 out of 39

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8.2

Great

Carousel Beach Inn Santa Cruz

MapSteps from Boardwalk200m

Carousel Beach Inn offers inviting rooms just steps from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Main Beach. Guests can enjoy private balconies and scenic views while easily accessing nearby attractions, shops, and restaurants. The hotel features complimentary parking and is a hub for various outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable seaside retreat.

Private Balconies
Continental Breakfast
24-Hour Reception

Beachfront hotel with accessible rooms and stunning ocean views

FromUS$ 109 /nightSelect

7.6

Very good

Surf City Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

MapSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalk300m

Surf City Inn & Suites offers a family-friendly experience with modern rooms and a focus on guest satisfaction. Enjoy a year-round indoor swimming pool, hot tub, and close proximity to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. With convenient access to dining options and local attractions, this hotel is perfect for leisure travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.

Indoor Pool
Hot Tub
Concierge Service

Hotel with family-friendly amenities near top Santa Cruz attractions

FromUS$ 69 /nightSelect

8.4

Great

Bay Front Inn

MapNear Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk300m

Bay Front Inn offers a convenient location just minutes from the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Guests can enjoy a seasonal outdoor pool and modern rooms equipped with essential amenities. The hotel is close to vibrant shopping and dining options, making it ideal for leisure travelers looking to explore the area.

Outdoor Pool
Bicycle Rentals
Picnic Area

Hotel situated near popular beach attractions and vibrant local culture

FromUS$ 100 /nightSelect

8.2

Great

Hotel Solares

MapFamous Beach Boardwalk300m

Hotel Solares is your gateway to the beauty of California's central coast, situated in the charming beach town of Santa Cruz. Enjoy a heated outdoor pool and hot tub for relaxation while being steps away from major attractions, restaurants, and the iconic beach boardwalk. Our pet-friendly rooms offer modern amenities including private balconies, ensuring a delightful stay for all travelers.

Heated Pool
Hot Tub
Pet-Friendly

Hotel offering modern rooms and convenient access to Santa Cruz attractions

FromUS$ 67 /nightSelect

8.0

Great

Howard Johnson By Wyndham Santa Cruz

MapSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalk200m

Situated just steps from the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Howard Johnson offers stunning ocean views and well-appointed rooms designed for relaxation. Enjoy complimentary continental breakfast and take advantage of our outdoor hot tub after a day of adventure. Our location provides easy access to local attractions, ensuring a memorable coastal escape.

Outdoor Hot Tub
Ocean Views
Continental Breakfast

Beachfront hotel with ocean-view rooms near attractions

FromUS$ 108 /nightSelect

8.0

Great

Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk

MapSanta Cruz Beach300m

Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk offers a prime location just steps from the beautiful Santa Cruz Beach, Boardwalk, and Wharf. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms equipped with cable TV and coffee machines, ensuring a restful stay. With convenient amenities such as a 24-hour reception and express check-in/out, this inn is an excellent choice for leisure travelers seeking both relaxation and proximity to coastal attractions.

24-hour Reception
Cable TV
On-site Launderette

Motel near Santa Cruz attractions with comfortable rooms and leisure activities

FromUS$ 81 /nightSelect

8.0

Great

Aqua Breeze Inn

MapSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalk300m

Aqua Breeze Inn offers a prime location directly across from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, making it an ideal choice for beach lovers. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms equipped with modern amenities, while the on-site facilities, including a laundry service and 24-hour front desk, ensure a convenient stay. The hotel is perfect for leisure travelers looking to explore the nearby attractions and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.

Beach Access
24-Hour Front Desk
Pets Allowed

Hotel featuring comfortable rooms near iconic beachfront attractions

FromUS$ 149 /nightSelect

Seaside Inn & Suites

MapNearby Santa Cruz Beach1.5km

Seaside Inn & Suites offers a delightful stay just moments from Santa Cruz Beach, featuring comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests will enjoy the beautiful outdoor spaces and the convenience of helpful local recommendations by attentive staff. The hotel is also ideal for those seeking excellent value for money and a peaceful nighttime environment.

Outdoor Spaces
Parking Facilities
Room Upgrades

Hotel that combines value with comfort near scenic coastal attractions.

FromUS$ 79 /nightSelect

8.4

Great

Ocean Pacific Lodge

MapSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalk300m

Ocean Pacific Lodge, centrally located in Santa Cruz, offers quick access to the popular Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Municipal Wharf. Guests can relax in the outdoor heated pool or unwind in the hot tub after exploring nearby attractions. With pet-friendly accommodations and a business center, this lodge caters to both leisure and business travelers.

Outdoor Pool
Pet Friendly
Business Center

Family-friendly hotel offering comfort with convenient city access.

FromUS$ 92 /nightSelect

8.2

Great

Mission Inn

MapProximity to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk2.5km

Mission Inn is a charming hotel located in the heart of Santa Cruz, offering guests easy access to major attractions and beaches. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning and relax in the beautifully landscaped Spanish-style courtyard or the on-site hot tub. With a variety of room options and family-friendly amenities, Mission Inn is an ideal choice for leisure travelers seeking comfort and convenience.

Outdoor Hot Tub
Complimentary Breakfast
Spanish Courtyard

Hotel featuring a Spanish-style courtyard and family-friendly amenities in Santa Cruz

FromUS$ 114 /nightSelect

7.8

Very good

Drift Inn, Llc

MapSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalk300m

Drift Inn, LLC is ideally located in central Santa Cruz, just steps away from famous attractions. Guests can enjoy convenient rooms equipped with essential amenities. The nearby Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and vibrant downtown area offer many leisure options for travelers.

24-hour reception
Air conditioning
Flat-screen TV

Budget-friendly hotel near popular Santa Cruz attractions

FromUS$ 65 /nightSelect

8.2

Great

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz

MapSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalk1.3km

Hyatt Place Santa Cruz offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV and a fridge. Guests can relax in the outdoor swimming pool or the hot tub after enjoying a complimentary breakfast featuring premium ingredients. Located near vibrant areas with vintage shops and cafes, this hotel combines convenience with leisure facilities for a delightful stay.

Outdoor Pool
Fitness Center
Hot Tub

Hotel featuring outdoor pool and fitness center near vibrant shopping area

FromUS$ 127 /nightSelect

8.0

Great

National 9 Motel

MapClose to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk2 miles

National 9 Motel is conveniently located off Santa Cruz Highway One, making it an ideal base for leisure travelers. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool and relax in rooms equipped with cable TV and private bathrooms. Just a short drive from nearby attractions like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Henry Cowell Redwood State Park, this motel offers a balance of comfort and accessibility.

Outdoor pool
Golf course
Air conditioning

Budget-friendly hotel near Santa Cruz attractions and outdoor experiences

FromUS$ 89 /nightSelect

8.4

Great

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

MapSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalk300m

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North is ideally located near the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and vibrant dining options. Guests can enjoy amenities such as an outdoor heated pool and relaxing hot tub. Each room is equipped with modern conveniences to ensure a comfortable stay in this charming coastal city.

Outdoor Pool
Hot Tub
Business Center

Hotel near attractive beach attractions and stunning natural scenery.

FromUS$ 94 /nightSelect

8.2

Great

Continental Inn

MapSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalk1.2km

Continental Inn offers a prime location in Santa Cruz, just minutes from the iconic Beach Boardwalk and vibrant downtown area. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool and spa, alongside easy access to numerous dining and shopping options. With comfortable rooms designed for relaxation, it's an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers alike.

Outdoor Pool
Spa Services
24-Hour Reception

Hotel providing convenient access to Santa Cruz attractions and amenities

FromUS$ 79 /nightSelect

Fireside Inn By The Beach Boardwalk & Bowling

7.8

Very good

Fireside Inn By The Beach Boardwalk & Bowling

MapSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalk150m

Fireside Inn offers a prime location just steps from the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, making it ideal for beach lovers. Guests enjoy comfortable rooms equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay. With nearby dining and diverse attractions, this hotel is perfect for leisure travelers seeking an enjoyable getaway.

Beach Access
Bowling Alley
On-site Parking

Beachfront hotel with direct access to vibrant Santa Cruz attractions

FromUS$ 59 /nightSelect

8.2

Great

The Inn At Pasatiempo

MapAdjacent Pasatiempo Golf Course0m

Nestled beside a majestic Eucalyptus grove, The Inn At Pasatiempo offers a serene getaway with stunning views of the adjacent Pasatiempo Golf Course. Guests can enjoy a year-round heated outdoor pool and exceptional onsite dining options that showcase local flavors. Recently renovated rooms combine rustic elegance with modern comfort, making this inn a perfect choice for leisure travelers seeking relaxation and adventure in Santa Cruz.

Heated Pool
Onsite Dining
Event Spaces

Charming boutique hotel featuring modern comforts and beautiful outdoor settings

FromUS$ 129 /nightSelect

8.0

Great

Hitching Post Studios Inn

MapSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalk500m

Hitching Post Studios Inn offers a prime location for exploring Santa Cruz, with attractions like the Beach Boardwalk and Natural Bridges State Beach nearby. Guests enjoy comfortable rooms equipped with kitchenettes, ideal for extended stays. The friendly service enhances the unique experience, making it a favored choice for returning visitors.

Kitchenette rooms
Friendly service
Near attractions

Hotel offering convenient access to Santa Cruz attractions and activities

FromUS$ 75 /nightSelect

8.2

Great

Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

MapSanta Cruz Beach600m

Riverside Inn & Suites offers a prime location, just a short walk from Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk, making it an ideal choice for beach lovers. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms equipped with plentiful amenities, along with complimentary parking and convenient access to various local attractions and dining options. Perfect for both solo travelers and families, this hotel combines comfort with easy access to the vibrant Santa Cruz experience.

Complimentary Parking
Air Conditioning
Accessible Features

Cozy hotel near Santa Cruz's renowned attractions and vibrant dining

FromUS$ 68 /nightSelect

Surestay Hotel By Best Western Santa Cruz

8.0

Great

Surestay Hotel By Best Western Santa Cruz

MapDowntown Santa Cruz300m

Surestay Hotel By Best Western Santa Cruz is ideally located in Downtown Santa Cruz, making it easy for guests to explore nearby shops and restaurants. The hotel features a seasonal outdoor pool for relaxation after a day of adventure and offers daily continental breakfast to start your day right. With free parking and a central location, it caters perfectly to both leisure travelers and families seeking fun at the beach.

Outdoor Pool
Free Parking
24-hour Reception

Hotel near shops, restaurants, and Santa Cruz attractions

FromUS$ 85 /nightSelect

Price range for hotels in Santa Cruz

Cheap hotels in cities across the world — search by destination, filter by price, and book the stay that fits your trip.

⬆️ The highest price

USD 167

⬇️ The lowest price

USD 40

💸 Average price for

4-star hotels

USD 83

3-star hotels

USD 112

Cheap hotels in Santa Cruz worth considering

Based on guest reviews over the last 12 months

Beachfront Bliss:

Carousel Beach Inn

Budget Friendly Stay:

Super 8 By Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach

Family Fun Adventures:

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Romantic Getaway:

Oceana Inn Santa Cruz (Adults Only)

Historic Charm:

Mission Inn

Modern Conveniences:

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz By Ihg

Cultural Exploration:

Santa Cruz Hostel

Cozy Comfort:

Drift Inn, Llc

Scenic Views:

Ocean Pacific Lodge

FAQs about hotels in Santa Cruz

The main things you should know before booking a hotel

What is the average price for hotel accommodations in Santa Cruz?

Average nightly rates for hotels in Santa Cruz range from $100 to $250, depending on the season. Budget options can start as low as $70.

Which hotels in Santa Cruz are family-friendly?

Family-friendly options include Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz By IHG and Surf City Inn & Suites, both offering amenities like larger rooms and proximity to the beach.

What hotels offer unique views in Santa Cruz?

For unique views, consider the Beachview Inn and Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk, both located near the coastline with scenic ocean views.

What is the best hotel near Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk?

The Carousel Beach Inn and Fireside Inn By The Beach Boardwalk & Bowling are just a short walk from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, making them ideal for easy access to attractions.

What are the cheapest hotels in Santa Cruz?

The National 9 Motel and Ocean Gate Inn offer some of the most affordable rates in Santa Cruz, often under $100 per night during off-peak periods.

Hotel Insights for Travelers in Santa Cruz

This guide evaluates 27 hotels in Santa Cruz, providing essential information on pricing, local fees, and attractions to help you make informed accommodation decisions.

Typical night rates range from $150 to $300 USD.

27 total hotels available in Santa Cruz.

Peak travel seasons: summer (June-August) and holiday weekends.

Local taxes/fees: approximately 12% combined rate.

Most hotels are within 2 km of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.