Are you in a hurry?
Here is a quick list of Motels in Santa Cruz, selected based on their rating
| Name of hotel | Accommodation Rating | Price, $ | |
| Seaway Inn |
8.2 / 10 (94 Reviews) |
From 99$ | |
| Ocean Lodge - Santa Cruz |
5.8 / 10 (291 Reviews) |
From 94$ | |
| Bay Front Inn |
7.1 / 10 (1128 Reviews) |
From 100$ | |
| Surf City Inn & Suites |
7.2 / 10 (1564 Reviews) |
From 77$ | |
| Ocean Pacific Lodge |
8.1 / 10 (1097 Reviews) |
From 109$ |
Hey there, fellow adventurers! Are you ready to uncover the secret treasures of each city? Well, buckle up because I'm about to take you on a wild ride through the heart of Santa Cruz with our handpicked selection of motels in some of the most vibrant neighborhoods.
As a solo explorer, I've always been drawn to the allure of uncovering the hidden gems of a city. There's something magical about turning down a nondescript alley and stumbling upon a cozy motel that feels like a home away from home. Each neighborhood has its own story to tell, and our collection of motels is perfectly situated to help you immerse yourself in the unique rhythm of Santa Cruz.
From the bohemian charm of the Eastside to the laid-back vibes of Seabright, our motels are like keys that unlock the soul of each neighborhood. Whether you're looking to indulge in the artsy scene, sample local flavors, or simply soak in the coastal beauty, our handpicked selection of motels will place you right at the epicenter of the action.
So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as we delve into the beating heart of Santa Cruz, one neighborhood at a time. Let's make some memories and uncover the hidden gems that make each city so beautifully unique.
Best Motels in Santa Cruz
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Seaway Inn
From 99$
Within 8 minutes' walk of Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, the 2-star Seaway Inn Santa Cruz includes 18 rooms. This Santa Cruz inn offers guests to use Wi-Fi for additional cost throughout the property.
Located at a 650-metre distance from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Iconic Amusement Park, the property is also a few minutes' drive from entertainment venues like the movie theater "Nickelodeon Theatre". Santa Cruz Surfing Museum can be found within a 5-minute drive of the hotel.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Cowell Beach, which is 5 minutes' walk away. Seaway Inn is situated at a moderate distance from The Mystery Spot, and Santa Cruz Metro Center bus station lies about 15 minutes' walk away.
The rooms at the accommodation are air-conditioned and fitted with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels as well as tea/coffee making equipment. Guests can also use a bathtub and a shower, along with such amenities as guest toiletries and towels. An additional toilet and a shower are available in private bathrooms. Certain units overlook the sea.
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Ocean Lodge - Santa Cruz
From 94$
The 2-star Ocean Lodge - Santa Cruz lies near the entertainment district of Santa Cruz. Highlights at this budget hotel include Wi-Fi in public areas.
The property is centrally located within close distance of Monterey Bay and a 5-minute walk from Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council. The Westside Santa Cruz district of Santa Cruz grants access to cultural attractions like Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History, which is about 25 minutes' walk away.
Visit Duck Island Pond, about 0.9 km from this Santa Cruz hotel, and feel complete harmony with the nature of United States. There is Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Iconic Amusement Park 2.9 km from Ocean Lodge - Santa Cruz.
Guests will find a microwave and a fridge in the rooms.
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Bay Front Inn
From 100$
Providing 35 rooms, the 2-star Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz is only 0.9 km from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park. Situated within walking distance of the Wide Main Sandy Beach in the Westside Santa Cruz district, this Santa Cruz inn features an outdoor pool.
The pet-friendly property puts you in the very heart of Santa Cruz, a 10-minute ride from University of California at Santa Cruz. Cultural sights in the area are Museum of Art and History (0.8 km) and Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center (0.9 km).
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Santa Cruz Main Beach, which is merely 500 metres away. The nearby notable religious buildings include Mission Santa Cruz Catholic Church, 5 minutes by car from Bay Front Inn.
Some of the air-conditioned units feature complimentary wireless internet and a TV with satellite channels as well as a coffeemaker. A shower and a tub, together with such comforts as hair dryers and complimentary toiletries are also provided.
Cheap Motels in Santa Cruz
In Santa Cruz, cheap motels can be the perfect escape for a fun-filled adventure with friends. Whether you're seeking a budget-friendly place to crash after a day of beach hopping and boardwalk shenanigans or a cozy spot to regroup before hitting the town for some lively nightlife, these motels offer a convenient and economical option for your group. Embrace the carefree vibes as you plan your next day's escapades from the comfort of your no-frills but cozy accommodation.
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Surf City Inn & Suites
From 77$
Offering a hot tub and a golf course, Surf City Inn & Suites Santa Cruz is a 5-minute ride from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park. This inn is a 5-minute drive from Cowell Beach and provides guests with a Jacuzzi and an indoor pool.
The accommodation is situated in the very heart of Santa Cruz, within close distance of the Wide Main Sandy Beach. Beach Flats Community Garden is within 6 minutes' walk of the 2-star hotel, while Museum of Art and History is about a 13-minute stroll away.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Santa Cruz Main Beach, which is merely a 10-minute stroll away. Along with other cultural attractions Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center is nestled within 5 minutes' drive of Surf City Inn & Suites.
The Surf City Inn & Suites offers 67 spacious rooms, some of them comprise a sitting area and a kitchen. Guests can make use of a coffee machine, and relax with Wi-Fi and a cable TV. Providing a hot tub and a shower/bath combination, the bathrooms are also equipped with complimentary toiletries and towels.
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Ocean Pacific Lodge
From 109$
The 2-star Ocean Pacific Lodge lies in the Westside Santa Cruz district of Santa Cruz, within reach of entertainment venues like Santa Cruz Wharf Pier, a mere 0.8 km away. This smoke-free hotel offers a swimming pool along with a Jacuzzi and an outdoor swimming pool and boasts a location within 0.7 km of the Wide Main Sandy Beach.
The pet-friendly property is situated relatively near University of California at Santa Cruz, while Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park is just 0.8 km away. Cultural sights in the area include Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, which is a mere 0.8 km away.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Cowell Beach, which is a mere 500 metres away. There is Guardian I 10 minutes away by car, while Santa Cruz Metro Center bus station a 10-minute stroll from Ocean Pacific Lodge.
Offering a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, the 55 rooms come with ironing facilities and air conditioner to ensure a comfortable stay. Guests can also use a Jacuzzi bath and a walk-in shower, along with such amenities as hair dryers and toiletries.
Hotels in Santa Cruz
| Top Service Hotel ๐ | Seaway Inn |
| Best mid-range Hotel ๐ด | Ocean Lodge - Santa Cruz |
| Most comfortable Hotel ๐๏ธ | Bay Front Inn |
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Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk
From 81$
Offering access to the Wide Main Sandy Beach, which is 18 minutes' walk away, the classic Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk Santa Cruz features a terrace and a golf course. The 2-star inn is in the historical Westside Santa Cruz district, within 5 minutes' drive of such natural sights as Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park.
The accommodation is located in the heart of Santa Cruz a mere 9 minutes' stroll from Cocoanut Grove and a stroll from Santa Cruz Wharf Pier. From the Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk Santa Cruz it will take around 18 minutes to walk to Cowell Beach.
Visit Duck Island Pond, at a distance of 950 metres from this classic property, and feel complete harmony with the nature of United States. Torch Lite Inn At The Beach Boardwalk stands 25 minutes' walk from Mission Santa Cruz Catholic Church, popular with pilgrims and tourists alike.
You can stay in one of the 38 air-conditioned rooms featuring Wi-Fi and a LCD TV set along with a coffee machine. Guests can use a shower together with free toiletries and towels. A separate toilet and a shower are available in private bathrooms.
Motels in Downtown Santa Cruz
Nestled in the heart of downtown Santa Cruz, the motels offer a cozy and convenient accommodation option for friends looking to explore the vibrant city. With their easy access to the bustling streets, eclectic restaurants, and lively nightlife, these motels provide the perfect base for a fun-filled adventure. Whether it's strolling along the iconic boardwalk, discovering trendy boutiques, or simply soaking up the laid-back California vibes, the motels in downtown Santa Cruz are the ideal choice for a memorable and exciting getaway with friends.
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Aqua Breeze Inn
From 149$
Situated approximately 350 metres from San Lorenzo River, Aqua Breeze Inn Santa Cruz offers 27 guest rooms. There is parking on site and Wi-Fi in the rooms.
Cocoanut Grove Banquet and Conf Event Venue and San Lorenzo Park Plaza Shopping Center are set only 1.1 and 0.6 km from the inn respectively. At this 2-star hotel you'll be at a 350-metre distance from Santa Cruz Main Beach.
The accommodation is situated within walking distance of Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Iconic Amusement Park, while Santa Cruz Metro Center bus station lies just a 10-minute walk away.
Some spacious rooms feature private bathrooms. Providing a tub, the bathrooms also have towels. Enjoy views of the ocean, while staying at this Santa Cruz hotel.
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Sunny Cove Motel
From 248$
Sunny Cove Motel Santa Cruz, located about a 5-minute stroll from Sunny Cove Sandy Swimming Beach and 10 minutes by car from Capitola Beach, features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool for guests to take a dip in. This inn also includes parking.
The accommodation in the Eastside Santa Cruz district, about a 10-minute drive from Santa Cruz Wharf Pier. The hotel is about a 6-minute stroll from East Cliff Village Shopping Center and at a moderate distance from Corcoran Lagoon.
This property allows you to enjoy such natural sights as the big Twin Lakes State Beach only 1.2 km away.
Certain rooms have a dining place and a kitchen for your convenience. They also feature a microwave, coffee & tea makers, and a fridge. The spacious bathrooms come with towels.
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Beachview Inn
From 60$
Situated about a 5-minute drive from Ocean View Park, the 2-star Beachview Inn Santa Cruz features Wi-Fi throughout the property, and public parking on site. The inn is a good starting point for exploring Santa Cruz, including Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Iconic Amusement Park, which is a mere 0.6 km away.
This Santa Cruz property is about 55 km from Mineta San Jose International airport and within close distance of such cultural venues as Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center. The Beachview Inn Santa Cruz in the Westside Santa Cruz district of Santa Cruz is located 650 metres from the Wide Main Sandy Beach.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Cowell Beach, which is 400 metres away. Beachview Inn is situated a walk from University of California at Santa Cruz, and Santa Cruz Metro Center bus station lies a mere 0.8 km away.
The rooms have private bathrooms with a separate toilet and a shower. Guests can also use a shower and a sink, along with such amenities as a hairdryer and guest toiletries.
Santa Cruz Extended Stay Motels
Hey there, wanderlusters! If you and your squad are plotting a Santa Cruz escapade, the Extended Stay Motels are the place to crash! Picture this: you and your amigos strolling back to your cozy hideaway after an epic day of beach-hopping, grabbing some local grub, and hitting up the quirky boutiques. The motel vibe is all about chillin' and bonding โ think late-night chats in the courtyard, spontaneous movie marathons, and plotting tomorrows over a bag of chips. With these digs as your home base, the memories you'll make are gonna be off the charts!
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Oceana Inn Santa Cruz (Adults Only)
From 59$
Oceana Inn Santa Cruz features 55 rooms and lies within 10 minutes' drive of The Mystery Spot. This inn also offers Wi-Fi in the rooms.
The property is centrally situated 5 minutes by car from Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center. You can find Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park nearly a 5-minute drive from the 2-star hotel.
Visit Duck Island Pond, around 400 metres from this accommodation, and feel complete harmony with the nature of United States. The nearby cultural attractions include Museum of Art and History, which is not very far from Oceana Inn Santa Cruz.
The rooms at this accommodation provide guests with a TV set with satellite channels, as well as comforts such as an iron/ironing board and climate control. The units also feature a microwave, coffee/tea making equipment, and a refrigerator.
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Fireside Inn By The Beach Boardwalk & Bowling
From 59$
Located in the Westside Santa Cruz district of Santa Cruz, the 2-star Fireside Inn By The Beach Boardwalk & Bowling is only an 11-minute stroll from such culture-oriented attractions as Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center. This Santa Cruz inn offers Wi-Fi throughout the property and has a business centre for those staying on business.
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is a 5-minute ride from the property, while Cowell Beach is within walking distance of the location. Fireside Inn By The Beach Boardwalk & Bowling Santa Cruz is also only 1.5 km from such natural sights as Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Seabright Beach, which is only 1.6 km away. Fireside Inn By The Beach Boardwalk & Bowling is situated within a minute's drive of The Mystery Spot, while Santa Cruz Metro Center bus station lies 0.7 km away.
The rooms have private bathrooms with an additional toilet and a shower. An additional toilet and a shower, together with such amenities as free toiletries and towels, are also at guests' disposal. Self-catering facilities in a superior apartment include a kitchen with a microwave and a refrigerator.
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Motel Santa Cruz
From 65$
Located a 25-minute walk from Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, Motel Santa Cruz includes 60 rooms with views of the city. This motel features both Wi-Fi throughout the property and public parking on site.
The property is situated in the Westside Santa Cruz district, only a few metres from the pizzeria Little Caesars. The 2-star hotel in Santa Cruz is about a 7-minute walk from The Satellite Workspace and Digital Media Studio.
This accommodation allows you to enjoy such natural sights as Duck Island Pond 9 minutes' walk away. Giant Dipper Wooden Roller Coaster is a 25-minute walk from Motel Santa Cruz.
A bathtub and a separate toilet along with such comforts as hairdryers and towels are also featured.
Weekly Motels in Santa Cruz
Looking to explore Santa Cruz with your buddies? Weekly motels in the city offer a budget-friendly and convenient way to experience all the fun and excitement with friends. Whether you're into hitting the waves, exploring the vibrant downtown scene, or soaking up the laid-back vibes, a weekly motel provides a comfortable home base for your adventures. With its prime location, you can easily hop between the beaches, local attractions, and nightlife spots with your crew, making unforgettable memories along the way. So, pack your bags, gather your friends, and get ready for an epic getaway in Santa Cruz!
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National 9 Motel
From 89$
National 9 Motel is a great place to stay in the Westside Santa Cruz district, 10 minutes' drive from The Mystery Spot. Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property and parking is provided on site.
University of California at Santa Cruz is within 10 minutes' drive of this motel and DeLaveaga Park is nearly a 19-minute stroll away. Family tourists will enjoy visiting Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park, which is 2.4 km away.
Options for cultural tourism include Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, situated around 2.5 km away.
The rooms have private bathrooms with a bathtub and a separate toilet. These units also have a microwave oven and a fridge. Providing a bathtub, some bathrooms come with hairdryers and free toiletries.
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Hitching Post Studios Inn
From 75$
Hitching Post Studios Inn Santa Cruz, located within 4.5 km of University of California at Santa Cruz, features Wi-Fi throughout the property. Featuring 23 rooms with views of the garden, this inn is within 5 minutes' drive of Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park.
The accommodation lies in the Eastside Santa Cruz district, about a 10-minute drive from the Wide Main Sandy Beach. The 2-star hotel is situated a 25-minute stroll from Mission Santa Cruz Catholic Church, which is considered to be a sacred site.
This property is in the immediate vicinity of Arana Gulch Trail and Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church.
The rooms include tea and coffee making facilities, along with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels for your convenience. These units also have parquet floors. The private bathrooms are fitted with a separate toilet and a shower together with hair dryers and guest toiletries. Looking onto the sea, the appartement features kitchen with a microwave oven, tea and coffee making facilities, and a fridge.
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Islander Motel Santa Cruz Ca
From 115$
The 2-star Islander Motel Santa Cruz, located within 5 minutes' drive of Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History, offers a swimming pool, Wi-Fi throughout the property. The non-smoking motel is in the Westside Santa Cruz district of Santa Cruz, a 5-minute ride from such natural sights as Cowell Beach.
The property puts you in the very heart of Santa Cruz, within a minute's drive of Pacific Garden Mall. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park in Santa Cruz is a 5-minute drive from the Islander Motel.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Duck Island Pond, which is 450 metres away. Located quite close to The Islander Motel Santa Cruz, Mission Santa Cruz Catholic Church is open for visiting by worshippers and tourists.
They are furnished with comfortable decor.
Hourly Motels in Santa Cruz
Looking for a carefree getaway with friends in Santa Cruz? Consider staying at one of the hourly motels in the area. These quirky spots offer a fun and affordable option for those seeking a quick escape with friends. Whether you're planning a spontaneous road trip or simply craving a change of scenery, hourly motels provide a cozy and convenient place to recharge before hitting the beach or exploring the local nightlife. It's all about seizing the moment and embracing the laid-back vibe of Santa Cruz!
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Capri Motel Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
From 68$
Capri Motel Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is located in an entertainment district and offers views of the mountain. This hotel also features Wi-Fi throughout the property.
The accommodation is within a 400-metre distance of the historic Looff Carousel, with Mike Fox Skate Park just 300 metres away. Cave Train is near the 2-star hotel, while 2nd Street & Leibrandt Avenue bus stop is a mere 150 metres away.
This property allows you to enjoy such natural sights as Duck Island Pond merely 1.1 km away. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Iconic Amusement Park is merely 1.3 km from Capri Motel Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Certain rooms have a patio and a balcony for your convenience. Some units at this Santa Cruz hotel include a microwave and a refrigerator. Providing a bath, the bathrooms are also equipped with hair dryers and toiletries.
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Coastview Inn
From 90$
The 2-star Coastview Inn Santa Cruz includes 32 rooms and is situated 0.6 km from San Lorenzo River. Located not very far from Santa Cruz Wharf Pier, this low-budget inn features a swimming pool for guests to relax in.
The historic Looff Carousel lies just 5 minutes' walk away, while the performing arts theater "Rio Theatre" is approximately 25 minutes' walk from the property. Popular natural sights near the hotel are Cowell Beach (550 metres) and the friendly coastline "Seabright State Beach" (2.1 km).
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Santa Cruz Main Beach, which is a mere 50 metres away. There is the friendly Mitchell's Cove Beach nearly 25 minutes' walk away, while Santa Cruz Metro Center bus station within walking distance of Coastview Inn.
Some rooms provide coffee/tea making machines as well as wireless internet to help you enjoy your stay. A microwave and a fridge are included in the units of this Santa Cruz hotel. The units also look over the sea.
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Drift Inn, Llc
From 65$
Drift Inn, Llc Santa Cruz has 11 rooms and is located within 5 minutes' drive of Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park. The 2-star inn also offers guests Wi-Fi in public areas.
The property lies in the Westside Santa Cruz district, a 25-minute stroll from the protected Lighthouse Field State Beach. The hotel is nearly a 5-minute walk from 2nd Street & Leibrandt Avenue bus stop and a short distance from San Lorenzo Park Plaza Shopping Center.
Visit Duck Island Pond, within a 13-minute walk of the accommodation, and feel complete harmony with the nature of United States. Drift Inn, Llc is within 3.2 km of University of California at Santa Cruz.
They come equipped with a microwave and a mini fridge, along with private bathrooms.
Pet Friendly Motels in Santa Cruz
Embarking on a whimsical adventure to Santa Cruz with your beloved furry friends? Fear not, for this vibrant coastal city offers a delightful array of pet-friendly motels, ensuring that every member of your travel squad is warmly welcomed. From quaint roadside inns to charming seaside accommodations, Santa Cruz is a haven for those seeking to explore the city's treasures with their four-legged companions in tow. Let the waves of the Pacific Ocean serve as your backdrop as you and your friends, both human and furry, create timeless memories in this enchanting oasis.
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Salt Air Lodge
From 192$
The 2-star Salt Air Lodge is situated in the Westside Santa Cruz district of Santa Cruz, only 1.2 km from such family venues as Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Iconic Amusement Park. Located a walk from Sky Glider, the business motel offers views of the pool and an outdoor swimming pool.
The low-budget property is 6 minutes' walk from San Lorenzo Park Plaza Shopping Center, within 1.2 km of the Wide Main Sandy Beach. Beach Flats Community Garden is within walking distance of the Salt Air Lodge Santa Cruz, and Mineta San Jose International airport is 55 km away.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Santa Cruz Main Beach, which is 500 metres away. Entertainment in the area includes Santa Cruz Wharf Pier only 1.2 km from Salt Air Lodge.
They are outfitted with comfortable decor.