Hotels in Westside Santa Cruz

Where Waves Meet Wonder: Discover the Soul of Westside Santa Cruz

Discover the charm of Westside Santa Cruz, where coastal beauty meets vibrant culture. Stroll along sandy beaches, bask in the sun, and savor fresh seafood at local eateries. This laid-back neighborhood boasts breathtaking ocean views and the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, offering thrilling rides and nostalgic games. Explore lush parks and scenic trails, perfect for hiking and unwinding in nature. With its eclectic shops and art galleries, Westside Santa Cruz is a delightful blend of beachside relaxation and cultural exploration, making it an ideal getaway for adventurers and romantics alike.

Discover great hotels in Westside Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz offers a mix of cozy inns, stylish boutique hotels, and charming vacation rentals, many with stunning ocean views. Enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, easy beach access, and the allure of local shops and eateries, making it a perfect base for your coastal adventure. Here are some of the best hotels in Westside Santa Cruz that our travelers love:

1. Hitching Post Studios InnOpens in a new window: This inviting 2.0-star motel offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for LGBTQIA travelers seeking a distinctive vacation experience. With comfortable accommodations and a commitment to inclusivity, guests can relax and enjoy their stay in a friendly environment. The hotel fosters a sense of community and belonging, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a leisurely escape filled with warmth and acceptance.
2. Harbor InnOpens in a new window: Experience comfort at this 2.0-star motel, designed for travelers who appreciate entertainment options such as Cable TV and Flat-screen TV. The cozy atmosphere is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. With its focus on providing a relaxing and enjoyable stay, this hotel is ideal for leisure travelers looking for a hassle-free, enjoyable getaway.
3. Inn At PasatiempoOpens in a new window: This 2.5-star hotel elevates your stay with diverse dining options, including an on-site restaurant, and an array of recreational activities like sailing, kayaking, and hiking. Guests can indulge in entertainment features such as LED and Cable TV while enjoying breathtaking views of nearby mountains and the ocean. This property is perfect for leisure travelers who prioritize unique experiences and stunning surroundings, ensuring an enriching and memorable visit to Westside Santa Cruz.

Top locations to stay in Westside Santa Cruz

When staying near Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Capitola Beach, and Mystery Spot in Westside Santa Cruz, visitors can enjoy thrilling rides, beautiful sunsets, and intriguing optical illusions. The Boardwalk is especially appealing for first-time visitors, offering a blend of beach fun and amusement park excitement, making it a perfect introduction to the area.

1. Near Santa Cruz Beach BoardwalkOpens in a new window: Staying near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk means you're at the heart of the action. This vibrant spot offers thrilling rides, games, and plenty of beach activities. Enjoy gorgeous sunsets, and take in the lively atmosphere while you explore the sandy beach or ride your bike along the shore. Nearby, you can visit iconic locations like the Santa Cruz Wharf and Capitola BeachOpens in a new window, making it a perfect hub for fun and relaxation.
2. Near Capitola Beach: With its charming coastal vibe, staying near Capitola Beach lets you soak in the sun and enjoy beautiful ocean views. This area is perfect for leisurely walks and surfing, while the colorful beach houses add a picturesque backdrop. You’ll be close to unique shopping experiences at Capitola Mercantile, and can easily explore nearby attractions like the Mystery SpotOpens in a new window for a bit of intrigue and adventure.
3. Near Mystery Spot: Staying near the Mystery Spot is all about experiencing the quirky and fun side of Santa Cruz. This fascinating attraction draws visitors eager to explore its optical illusions and gravitational anomalies. While you're here, you can enjoy the nearby natural beauty with scenic trails and stunning views. The area also has great options for walking and birdwatching, making it a unique spot for those looking to blend the unusual with the outdoors.

Things to do near Westside Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz boasts stunning beaches and rugged coastal cliffs, perfect for surfing, biking, and walking. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the ocean or explore nearby parks and forests for hiking and nature walks. This vibrant area offers a blend of relaxation and outdoor excitement, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.

• Capitola BeachOpens in a new window – Head to Capitola Beach for a classic California beach experience. Relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the inviting ocean, or stroll along the picturesque promenade lined with colorful beach houses. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a great spot for families and friends alike.
• Rio Del Mar BeachOpens in a new window – Just a short drive away, Rio Del Mar Beach offers a more tranquil setting. Ideal for a peaceful walk or a picnic, this beach provides stunning views of the coast and is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
• Santa Cruz Beach BoardwalkOpens in a new window – Get your adrenaline pumping at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, an amusement park that boasts thrilling rides and games. Enjoy classic boardwalk treats like cotton candy and funnel cakes while taking in the lively atmosphere and beautiful ocean views.
• Mystery SpotOpens in a new window – Explore the peculiar angles and optical illusions at the Mystery Spot. This unique exhibit challenges your perception of gravity and space, offering a fun and quirky experience for visitors of all ages.
• Roaring Camp RailroadsOpens in a new window – Step back in time at Roaring Camp Railroads, where you can ride vintage steam trains through the stunning redwood forests. Enjoy the scenic views and learn about the history of the area while experiencing the charm of an old-fashioned train ride.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Westside Santa Cruz

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to visit Westside Santa Cruz on a budget, January, November, and December are the most affordable months, as hotel prices are lower during this time. Staying for at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the area's historical and cultural landmarks. You can enjoy activities such as walking along the beach, birdwatching, biking, and even surfing. With friendly locals and stunning sunsets, this destination offers great value for money, allowing visitors to experience a rich blend of history and culture without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to Westside Santa Cruz on Hotels.com, you may start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions. With Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window a handy comparison tool available in the app, you can easily compare hotel prices and amenities. This way, if rooms become available or prices drop, you're more likely to be the first to know and seize a great last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a hotel in Westside Santa Cruz. If you're interested in a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll recommend more affordable dates that could help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it usually tends to come with higher prices. To find more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods while keeping in mind the balance between cost and ease of access to your planned destinations. You might also look into independent hotels a bit farther out, as they can offer a more genuine and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join our membership program for free and start planning your next getaway in Westside Santa Cruz! Enjoy exclusive member prices and savings on over 100,000 hotels around the globe. As you progress through the membership tiers, you'll unlock additional benefits, including complimentary room upgrades when available and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don't miss out on these incredible perks—sign up today and enhance your travel experience!

Best time to go to Westside Santa Cruz

Westside Santa Cruz has a varied climate due to its size, so the best time to visit depends on the region and your preferences for weather and crowds. June to August are the peak travel months in Westside Santa Cruz, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.