Best resorts and places to stay in Santa Cruz
Why visit?
Santa Cruz, located on the central coast of California, offers a unique mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic amusement park overlooking the Pacific Ocean, or explore the redwood-filled Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Additionally, the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and the Santa Cruz Wharf are notable landmarks worth a visit, offering stunning ocean views and diverse marine life.
Why is choosing a resort in Santa Cruz better than staying in a hotel?
Seclusion and privacy: Resorts in Santa Cruz offer a more tranquil and private atmosphere than traditional hotels, allowing guests to fully relax and unwind in a serene environment.
Enhanced amenities: Resorts typically provide a wide range of recreational facilities, such as spa services, swimming pools, and fitness centers, offering guests a comprehensive experience without leaving the property.
Unique accommodations: Many Santa Cruz resorts offer distinctive lodging options, such as beachfront cottages, eco-friendly bungalows, and luxury suites, providing a more personalized and memorable stay.
Exclusive dining options: Resorts often feature on-site restaurants and bars that showcase local cuisine and offer scenic dining experiences, allowing guests to savor the flavors of Santa Cruz without venturing far.
Enhanced customer service: Resorts generally provide a higher level of personalized service, including concierge assistance, recreational activity planning, and special event coordination, ensuring an exceptional and stress-free stay for guests.
What is the price to stay in a resort per night?
The average nightly prices for resorts in Santa Cruz vary based on the star rating:
3-star resorts: $150 - $250
4-star resorts: $250 - $400
5-star resorts: $400 and above
(Note: Prices are subject to seasonal variations and can differ based on specific resort amenities and room types.)
Best value for money resorts:
Chaminade Resort & Spa: Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering hiking trails and beautiful views. Close to attractions like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Dream Inn Santa Cruz: Beachfront location with stylish accommodations and a renowned restaurant. Walking distance to the Santa Cruz Wharf and downtown area.
Seascape Beach Resort: Located in Aptos, providing spacious suites and beach access, in proximity to Seascape Golf Club and nearby wineries.
Best luxury resorts:
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay: Luxurious oceanfront retreat with world-class amenities and an award-winning spa. Features access to championship golf courses and horseback riding.
Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection: Upscale boutique resort with a modern design aesthetic and a vibrant atmosphere. Close to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and downtown Santa Cruz.
Best pets-friendly resorts:
The Inn at Pasatiempo: Welcomes pets and provides a peaceful, secluded setting amidst oak trees, with easy access to Pasatiempo Golf Club.
Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley: Pet-friendly accommodations with a central location, featuring a pool and close to Santa Cruz Mountain wineries and state parks.
Best resorts for families:
Santa Cruz Dream Inn: Family-friendly beachfront resort with spacious rooms and easy access to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Municipal Wharf.
Seascape Beach Resort: Offers family-friendly accommodations, beach access, and amenities suitable for all ages, including a kids' club and recreational activities.
Best resorts with unique views:
Chaminade Resort & Spa: Boasts panoramic views of the Monterey Bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for relaxation.
Dream Inn Santa Cruz: Spectacular oceanfront location offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Coast, ideal for sunset watching and beach activities.
