Cheap Hotels in Santa Cruz, United States

Book reliable cheap hotels in Santa Cruz, United States
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Check-out
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Santa Cruz boasts iconic spots like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Natural Bridges State Beach, and the scenic coastline of West Cliff Drive. You'll find boutique hotels near the university, beachfront hotels with stunning ocean views, and cheap hotel rooms in the heart of town. Each option is thoughtfully picked, featuring local experiences and great amenities. For booking, consider mid-week visits or off-peak seasons for the best deals. Public transport like the Metro is available to make getting around a breeze.
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1-20 out of 32
Sort by: high popularity
  • Price: low to high
  • Price: high to low
  • Guest rating: high to low
  • Popularity: high to low
Map1200 yd from City Centre700 yd from Pacific Avenue
FromUS$ 59 /nightSelect
FromUS$ 65 /nightSelect
Map1700 yd from City Centre200 yd from Sky Glider
FromUS$ 109 /nightSelect
Map1300 yd from City Centre600 yd from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
FromUS$ 82 /nightSelect
Map1700 yd from City Centre1200 yd from Veterans Memorial Building
FromUS$ 78 /nightSelect
Map1400 yd from City Centre500 yd from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
FromUS$ 60 /nightSelect
Map1400 yd from City Centre100 yd from Santa Cruz
FromUS$ 109 /nightSelect
Map1200 yd from City Centre800 yd from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
FromUS$ 67 /nightSelect
Map1500 yd from City Centre200 yd from Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
FromUS$ 99 /nightSelect
Map1500 yd from City Centre700 yd from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
FromUS$ 95 /nightSelect
Map1200 yd from City Centre700 yd from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
FromUS$ 77 /nightSelect
Map1200 yd from City Centre700 yd from Pacific Avenue
FromUS$ 104 /nightSelect
Map1400 yd from City Centre600 yd from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
FromUS$ 65 /nightSelect
Map1300 yd from City Centre600 yd from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
FromUS$ 79 /nightSelect
Map1.9 mi from City Centre700 yd from Pasatiempo Golf Club
FromUS$ 129 /nightSelect
Map1.2 mi from City Centre1.1 mi from UCSC Arboretum
FromUS$ 114 /nightSelect
Map1600 yd from City Centre1100 yd from Veterans Memorial Building
FromUS$ 100 /nightSelect
Map1100 yd from City Centre400 yd from Santa Cruz
FromUS$ 109 /nightSelect
Map1200 yd from City Centre800 yd from Pacific Avenue
FromUS$ 134 /nightSelect
Map1700 yd from City Centre1100 yd from Veterans Memorial Building
FromUS$ 94 /nightSelect
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Hotel price range in Santa Cruz

Choose from low-cost hotels—options for every traveler and budget.

⬆️ The highest price
US$ 239
⬇️ The lowest price
US$ 59
💸 Average price for
3-star hotels
US$ 111

Cheap hotels in Santa Cruz

Based on reviews from guests who stayed in the past year

Direct beach access with private cabanas:
Carousel Beach Inn
Cozy rooms with beach themed decor:
Drift Inn, Llc
Modern amenities with complimentary breakfast:
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz By Ihg
Charming vintage style close to attractions:
Mission Inn
Convenient location near waterfront activities:
Ocean Pacific Lodge
Affordable comfort with family friendly services:
Super 8 By Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach
Unique boutique experience for adults only:
Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North
Budget friendly with basic amenities:
National 9 Motel
Relaxing atmosphere with easy beach access:
Fireside Inn By The Beach Boardwalk & Bowling

FAQs about cheap hotels in Santa Cruz

We hope these answers help you plan a smooth and cost-effective trip

What are the cheapest hotel options in Santa Cruz?
The cheapest hotel options include the National 9 Motel and the Hitching Post Studios Inn, with prices starting around $80 per night during off-peak seasons. Average prices across the 27 cheap hotel properties in Santa Cruz typically range from $80 to $150 per night.
Which cheap hotels are located near popular attractions in Santa Cruz?
Hotels like the Surf City Inn & Suites and the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites are within 1 km of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and other major attractions, offering convenient access to local sites.
Which hotels in Santa Cruz have unique views or are suitable for couples?
The Inn At Pasatiempo offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and is ideal for couples. Additionally, the Comfort Inn Beach Boardwalk is a great choice for couples wanting to enjoy proximity to the beach.
What are the best family-friendly hotel options in Santa Cruz?
Family-friendly options include the Super 8 By Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which offers spacious rooms and a pool, and the Carousel Beach Inn, located within walking distance of the boardwalk and family attractions.
Which cheap hotels in Santa Cruz are top-rated based on guest reviews?
Top-rated cheap hotels include the Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North and the Ocean Pacific Lodge, praised for cleanliness and value, with guest satisfaction scores typically above 4 out of 5 stars.

Stay Hacks for Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a charming beach town known for its vibrant culture and beautiful coastline. Here are some tips to enhance your experience during your stay.

Fast Fact: Did you know? About 75% of Santa Cruz hotels are less than a mile from the beach, like the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites, which provides easy access to the sand and surf.

Local Hack: Always ask about complimentary beach gear rental. Many local hotels, including budget options, offer free umbrellas and chairs to guests.

Hidden Gem: Visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History (10 mins from downtown). Its engaging exhibits on local wildlife and ecosystems reveal insights about the area's natural beauty.

Smart Tip: If you're booking during summer, look for accommodations mid-week. Rates can drop by up to 30% compared to weekend stays.

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Check-in
24Jan2026Select date
Check-out
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room