A colorful coastal town with a sandy beach and a calm sea.

Find Santa Cruz Budget Hotels from S$92

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Check availability on Santa Cruz Budget Hotels

Tonight
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Tomorrow
2 Sept - 3 Sept
This weekend
4 Sept - 6 Sept
Next weekend
11 Sept - 13 Sept

Our top choices for Santa Cruz cheap hotels

1. Seaside Inn & Suites

Seaside Inn & Suites
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Sean
S$92
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Seaside Inn & Suites

2. The Aqua Pacific Hotel

The Aqua Pacific Hotel
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
virgil
S$93
includes taxes & fees
2 Sept - 3 Sept
The Aqua Pacific Hotel

3. Beachview Inn

Beachview Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Jess
S$110
includes taxes & fees
2 Sept - 3 Sept
Beachview Inn

4. Carousel Beach Inn

Carousel Beach Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
daphanie
S$110
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
Carousel Beach Inn

5. Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Ramiro
S$147
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Ocean Pacific Lodge

6. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Bethany
S$204
includes taxes & fees
2 Sept - 3 Sept
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz

7. Surf City Inn and Suites

Surf City Inn and Suites
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Heather
S$106
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Surf City Inn and Suites

8. Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Bertha
S$148
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North

9. Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Brian
S$110
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz

10. Marea Sol Hotel

Marea Sol Hotel
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Danielle
S$171
includes taxes & fees
2 Sept - 3 Sept
Marea Sol Hotel
View all properties

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

For budget-conscious travelers visiting Santa Cruz, a range of excellent hotels offer affordable comfort without compromising on quality. Here are some top choices that won't break the bank.Beach Street Inn and Suites

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Beach Street Inn and Suites is a charming budget-friendly hotel with a review rating of 9.4, perfect for those seeking a relaxed coastal getaway. Guests enjoy essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi and toiletries, as well as access to a lovely outdoor pool. This hotel allows guests to unwind while being steps away from the beach.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its prime location, the hotel offers beach towels, a hot tub for relaxation, and easy access to kayaking and surfing opportunities nearby. Additional amenities include self-parking, daily housekeeping, and a private pool area for guests looking to soak up the sun in comfort.
  • 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

Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For budget travellers seeking a modern and convenient stay, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz - Capitola shines with a remarkable guest review rating of 9.4. Guests will enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast daily, and the hotel boasts an outdoor pool ideal for a refreshing dip. Its location is perfect for those wishing to explore nearby beaches and activities such as kayaking and surfing.
  • Other amenities: The hotel further enhances the stay with amenities like a 24-hour fitness centre, early check-in options, and convenient access to local hiking trails. The presence of electric car charging stations and a snack bar ensures a pleasant and straightforward experience. Guests will also find nearby shopping and entertainment options, making it a well-rounded choice for budget-conscious travellers.
  • Nearby attractions: Twin Lakes State Beach - 2.4 km, Capitola Beach - 1.5 km, Capitola Wharf - 1.5 km

Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites offers exceptional value for budget travellers with a strong review rating of 9.2. This hotel features complimentary breakfast and toiletries, ensuring that guests have all the essentials for a comfortable stay without added expenses.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its thoughtful amenities, guests can take advantage of an outdoor pool, hot tub, and nearby beach access. The hotel also provides free self-parking, air conditioning, and various recreational opportunities such as surfing and hiking, making it an ideal spot for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Santa Cruz.
  • Nearby attractions: Capitola Beach - 1.6 km, Capitola Wharf - 1.6 km, Twin Lakes State Beach - 2.5 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

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection

10/10 Excellent
"We had a great time hanging out at the pool all day. The room was nice and the bed was super comfortable. All the staff were really friendly and helpful."
Julie-Anne 1-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection
Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge

8/10 Good
"Exactly what you'd expect of a slightly older hotel. Great staff, fine amenities, fantastic location- just a slightly older facility. We enjoyed our stay, and would return."
Lia 1-night trip
Posted 11 hours ago
Ocean Pacific Lodge
Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Clean room. A bit small but that’s ok. Attentive staff easy check in and out. Only issue was A/C did not work. Room was at 73-75 during our stay"
Brad 1-night trip
Posted 18 hours ago
Chaminade Resort & Spa
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"It was a very nice area and also very clean room & front desk was also helpful & free breakfast"
Brandon 2-night trip
Posted 22 hours ago
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG
Surf City Inn and Suites

Surf City Inn and Suites

10/10 Excellent
"Clean rooms, ac worked great and within walking distance to the Boardwalk"
Elizabeth 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Surf City Inn and Suites
Hotel Solares

Hotel Solares

8/10 Good
"Todo estuvo bien la habitación estaba bien limpia"
Javier 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Hotel Solares

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 Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay, this destination is home to University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum and Big Basin Redwoods State 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 Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay, and then look for sights and activities that cost little or nothing at all. Enjoy the outdoors at Santa Cruz Main Beach and Cowell's Beach, 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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