Visiting Santa Cruz is a treat for anyone looking to experience the beauty of California’s central coast. The beaches are stunning and the Boardwalk is a must-see for any first-time visitor. I loved visiting the Boardwalk and all the vintage amusement rides on my last trip.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, I’d highly recommend checking out one of the cool boutique hotels in the area. They offer a unique and personalized experience that you won’t find at a chain hotel.
Boutique Hotels in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is home to several vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. The Westside is known for its cool shops, restaurants and markets, while Seabright has a more laid-back atmosphere.
If you’re visiting Santa Cruz, I’d recommend staying somewhere between the Downtown area and Santa Cruz Beach, where you’ll be within walking distance of the Boardwalk and wharf and many of the city’s best shops and restaurants.
Top Pick
Dream Inn Santa CruzAddress: 175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA
The Dream Inn is a stylish and unique place to stay in Santa Cruz. Located just a short walk from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the wharf, this boutique hotel is the perfect base for exploring all the city offers. The hotel’s retro-chic style is reflected in its vintage furnishings, colorful decor, and funky artwork, creating a playful and inviting atmosphere.
Features:
- Retro vibe rooms, all with ocean views.
- Café serving organic, locally-sourced breakfast and lunch.
- Cozy bar serving craft cocktails.
- Great beginner-level surf at Cowell Beach.
Pros: Amazing beachfront location, fun design features, easy access to the city’s sights, and abundant nature.
Cons: There are limited sustainability measures in place.
Check AvailabilityLocation of Dream Inn
Santa Cruz is a paradise for food lovers, offering an abundance of fresh seafood, locally-grown organic produce, and high-quality wines from nearby wineries.
Whether you’re in the mood for a seafood feast, a farm-to-table dining experience, or a wine tasting tour, you’ll find no shortage of delicious options in this vibrant and culinary-rich city.
If you’re looking for the best boutique hotel in Santa Cruz, I highly recommend the Dream Inn. However, if you’re interested in something in a different location, my next top pick might be a good fit for you.
Next Best
Hotel Paradox
Address: 611 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz, CA
Hotel Paradox offers guests a variety of amenities and features to make their stay comfortable and enjoyable. The hotel has an outdoor pool with cabanas and fire pits for you to use. All rooms are soundproofed and come with an electronics charging station, a coffee machine and bathrobes. The onsite bar and restaurant serves local wine and beer and offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a seasonal menu. There’s a fitness center and a unique lending library.
If you’re planning a trip to California, be sure to check out my guide to the best places to visit, where you’ll find top recommendations for amazing sights, activities, and experiences all across the Golden State.
If you’re planning a trip to Santa Cruz, be sure to check out the city’s tourist office website for helpful information and resources. The website is a great resource for visitors and provides details on local attractions, events, and things to do in the area.
Responsible Travel Tips
Many of us are increasingly concerned about climate change and sustainability. Here are a few actions we can take to lower our travel impact.
- Choose accommodations that are committed to energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources. Unfortunately, there aren’t any sustainable hotels in Santa Cruz.
- Reduce food waste by being mindful of portion sizes and choosing restaurants that offer smaller plate options or allow guests to take leftovers home.
- Limit consumerism by choosing experiences over material purchases and supporting local businesses. You could try surfing with a local guide or hiking in the State Park.
- Consider incorporating sustainable diets, such as plant-based or locally-sourced meals, into your travel plans. There are many opportunities for this in Santa Cruz where you’ll find vegan and vegetarian cafes and high-quality markets.
- Use sustainable transportation options, such as biking, walking, or taking public transportation, instead of driving or flying. This is easy to do if you’re coming from somewhere nearby, like San Francisco, San Jose or Monterey.
- Support the local community by choosing locally owned and operated businesses and participating in socially and environmentally responsible tourism initiatives. In Santa Cruz, this might mean beach clean-up events or tree planting or restoration initiatives.
Please share your sustainability tips in the comments.
FAQ
Santa Cruz is 75 miles from downtown San Francisco. The fastest way is usually straight along the US-101 but check traffic before leaving. Public transit should get you to Santa Cruz in around 2 hours and 30 minutes via San Jose.
Santa Cruz is 30 miles from downtown San Jose. It’ll take around 50 minutes by car or 1 hour on the # 17 express for $7.
Santa Cruz is 45 miles from Monterey, which will take around 50 minutes by car.
If you have questions or want to leave a hotel review, please do so in the comments.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels in Santa Cruz, California. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.
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