Santa Cruz Cheap Hotels

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Our top choices for Santa Cruz cheap hotels

Drift Inn

Drift Inn
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (97 reviews)
"There were restaurants nearby, easy to get to Santa Cruz Beach boardwalk"
United States
Emere
The price is HK$769
HK$861 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Jun - 25 Jun
Drift Inn

Motel Santa Cruz

Motel Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
5.0 out of 10, (1,002 reviews)
"The hotel was a minimal hotel good for an overnight stay. The management, staff and parking was all great! I'd recommend it for the budget and limited amenities. "
United States
Geneva
The price is HK$643
HK$791 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Jun - 29 Jun
Motel Santa Cruz

Capri Motel

Capri Motel
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
6.6 out of 10, (607 reviews)
"Staff was so nice and this was a perfect hotel close to the Boardwalk. We'll be back!"
United States
Eli
The price is HK$658
HK$794 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Jun - 29 Jun
Capri Motel

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
3.0 star property
Boulder Creek
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,010 reviews)
"The diner and staff were fantastic!"
United States
Thomas
The price is HK$831
HK$1,073 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Jul - 8 Jul
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains

Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (971 reviews)
"Great location for families who want to enjoy downtown santa cruz and the boardwalk"
United States
Michael
The price is HK$776
HK$892 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Jun - 25 Jun
Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz

Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,444 reviews)
"Had a great stay."
United States
Nicole
The price is HK$980
HK$1,220 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Jun - 29 Jun
Ocean Pacific Lodge

Seaside Inn & Suites

Seaside Inn & Suites
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,054 reviews)
"Staff was very friendly"
United States
Maria
The price is HK$839
HK$1,094 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Jun - 26 Jun
Seaside Inn & Suites

Beachview Inn

Beachview Inn
2.0 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,007 reviews)
"Perfect location close to a lot of places and staff was very friendly. "
United States
Miguel
The price is HK$901
HK$1,114 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Jul - 8 Jul
Beachview Inn

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz
2.5 star property
Westside Santa Cruz
7.2 out of 10, Good, (1,006 reviews)
"Nice size room easy parking great location"
United States
Brady
The price is HK$736
HK$945 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Jun - 26 Jun
Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

Best Western Plus Inn Scotts Valley

Best Western Plus Inn Scotts Valley
2.5 star property
Scotts Valley
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"I really enjoyed our stay"
United States
EVALYNE
The price is HK$1,060
HK$1,204 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jun - 30 Jun
Best Western Plus Inn Scotts Valley
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, offers a delightful mix of budget-friendly activities and attractions that cater to the adventurous traveller. Start your journey at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where you can enjoy free admission and indulge in affordable treats like corn dogs or cotton candy while taking in the vibrant atmosphere. For a taste of nature, head to Natural Bridges State Beach, where you can witness stunning tidal pools and migratory monarch butterflies, all at no cost. If you're in the mood for some culture, visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History, which often features free admission days, allowing you to explore local art without breaking the bank. The lively Downtown Santa Cruz is perfect for those seeking thrift shops and local eateries; grab a bite at one of the many food trucks offering delicious, inexpensive meals. When it comes to accommodation, consider staying near the vibrant Downtown area or close to the beach, where you’ll find a range of budget hotels that provide excellent service and a comfortable base for your adventures. Here, you can easily explore the charming streets filled with local shops and cafes, ensuring a delightful experience without the hefty price tag.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers an array of budget-friendly hotels that cater to travellers seeking value without compromising on comfort. Here are some excellent options to consider for your stay.

Beach Street Inn and Suites

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Beach Street Inn and Suites offers an excellent budget-friendly option for travellers, a guest review rating of 9.4. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi and toiletries, ensuring a comfortable stay without hidden costs. Guests can enjoy easy access to the nearby beach, perfect for sunbathing and leisurely walks along the coast, as well as an inviting outdoor pool for relaxation.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a hot tub, a terrace for sunbathing, and self-parking options. With nearby kayaking and surfing opportunities, active travellers will find plenty to do. The hotel also includes beach towels for guest convenience, ensuring a fulfilling beach getaway. Housekeeping services are provided daily, adding an extra touch of comfort to the stay.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.3 km, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.3 km, Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.5 km

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Ideal for budget-conscious travellers, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz is a great choice with an impressive guest review rating of 9.2. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast options daily, including continental selections on weekends, ensuring a great start to each day. The hotel also features a refreshing outdoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the beautiful beaches nearby.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include a fitness centre available 24 hours, free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, and convenient self-parking options. Guests will appreciate the terrace for relaxation and the nearby local attractions. The hotel also offers electric car charging stations, making it an eco-friendly choice for those travelling with electric vehicles.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.2 km, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.2 km, Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.3 km

Marea Sol Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Marea Sol Hotel is another excellent budget option for travellers, featuring a review rating of 9.2. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, the hotel provides free Wi-Fi and toiletries, making it a practical choice for those looking to save without compromising comfort. Guests can enjoy the beautiful outdoor pool and stunning ocean views.
  • Other amenities: Alongside these amenities, Marea Sol Hotel offers self-parking, air conditioning, direct beach access, and a rooftop terrace for enjoying the sunset. The hotel also features furnished balconies, creating a lovely environment for relaxation after a day of exploring Santa Cruz.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.3 km, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.3 km, Main Beach - 0.2 km

Marea Sol Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For those seeking a budget-friendly escape with stunning views, Marea Sol Hotel is an excellent choice, featuring a guest review rating of 9.2. Guests will enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and toiletries, along with beautiful beach access just steps away. The hotel's outdoor pool is perfect for a refreshing swim on warm days, and its rooftop terrace provides a lovely spot to unwind.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include self-parking options and air conditioning for comfort throughout the stay. The hotel also offers partial and ocean views, enhancing the overall experience. Guests can easily explore nearby beaches and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere that Marea Sol provides.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.3 km, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.3 km, Main Beach - 0.2 km

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

What is Santa Cruz like for travellers on a budget?
Santa Cruz has a variety of cheap accommodation options and things to do, making it a great getaway spot for budget travellers. In addition to its well-known attractions such as Monterey Bay and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, this destination is home to University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum and Lighthouse Point Park, which you can enjoy while spending very little.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Santa Cruz?
Based on our traveller reviews, Ocean Pacific Lodge is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Other choices to stay on the cheap include Beachview Inn and Torch Lite Inn.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Santa Cruz?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Santa Cruz, but bear in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually September and August, with an average temperature of 17°C, while the coldest months are February and March, with an average of 11°C. Average annual precipitation for Santa Cruz is 677 mm.
What is there to see and do in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz is known for its sporting events and surfing, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the top local attractions that interest you most, such as Monterey Bay and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and then look for sights and activities that cost little or nothing at all. Enjoy the outdoors at Santa Cruz Main Beach and University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum, or hunt for bargains with some shopping at Ocean Street.
How can I get to Santa Cruz and get around on a budget?
Scoping out the transportation options in Santa Cruz is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The most convenient airport is 13.4 mi (21.6 km) from the centre in Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal). However, if that doesn't suit your budget, you can look into flights to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.), which is 27.6 mi (44.3 km) away. Santa Cruz might not have very many public transport options so renting a car could be a reasonable alternative to see more of the area.

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