Santa Cruz Trip
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Where to stay in Santa Cruz
Downtown Santa Cruz
City centre Santa Cruz buzzes with artistic energy along the pedestrian-friendly Pacific Avenue. Street musicians perform beneath towering redwoods while colourful murals decorate brick walls. Visitors can browse independent bookshops and surf boutiques or explore the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History. The area offers easy access to the Beach Boardwalk just streets away. Victorian architecture creates a charming backdrop for the lively café scene. The bohemian atmosphere welcomes travellers looking for authentic California coastal culture without pretension.
Seabright
Seabright offers a charming coastal retreat with golden sands and gentle waves. This laid-back Santa Cruz area blends residential charm with beachside beauty. Locals stroll along the shore while visitors explore the natural history museum and harbour. Discover both the energetic Seabright Beach and calmer Harbour Beach within walking distance. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk sits nearby for those seeking more excitement. Beach cottages in weathered wood and pastel colours create a genuine coastal atmosphere throughout this walkable community.
Westside Santa Cruz
The artsy Westside area brings Santa Cruz's laid-back coastal vibe to life with a creative twist. Beautiful beaches meet bohemian charm along streets lined with craft breweries, surf shops, and independent bookshops. The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum overlooks legendary breaks while Lighthouse Point offers dramatic coastal views. Colourful Victorian cottages and beach bungalows create an eclectic streetscape with ocean glimpses. Natural Bridges State Beach features stunning tide pools and monarch butterfly groves. Locals frequent the same cafes as visitors, preserving the authentic surf culture and artistic community feel.
Eastside Santa Cruz
Explore Eastside Santa Cruz where tree-lined streets weave through a peaceful residential community near the university. Beach lovers can easily access Twin Lakes State Beach and Seabright Beach for sunny days by the water. The area offers a genuine glimpse into local Santa Cruz living away from tourist crowds. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate nearby DeLaveaga Park and Arana Gulch with their scenic hiking trails through coastal scrubland. UC Santa Cruz borders provide access to majestic redwood groves and striking architecture. The hilly terrain rewards walkers with occasional glimpses of beautiful Monterey Bay.
Pleasure Point
Santa Cruz's Pleasure Point is a surfer's paradise where world-class breaks meet laid-back beach town vibes. Watch skilled surfers tackle legendary waves from the East Cliff Drive scenic overlook. The area breathes authentic California coastal culture through local surf shops, beachy cafes, and artistic character. Visitors can explore multiple beach access points including 38th Avenue and Santa Maria's Beach. The Hook draws spectators to clifftop benches while Pleasure Point Park offers grassy areas for picnicking with panoramic ocean views. The area maintains its genuine surf town atmosphere with minimal commercialization.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Santa Cruz Hotel Deals
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Cruz
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Cruz by IHG
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Santa Cruz holiday package cost?
You can pick up a holiday package to this top destination on Expedia. However, how much your holiday to Santa Cruz costs will depend on factors like the length of stay, hotel choice and season.
What are the cheapest months to go to Santa Cruz?
If you're looking to snag a cheap Santa Cruz holiday package, consider planning a trip in December, January and February. You're likely to find better prices on airfares and hotels during these quieter months — ideal for travellers wishing to save money.
How many days is enough for Santa Cruz?
With about 2 days, you'll have plenty of time to experience popular neighbourhoods such as Westside Santa Cruz and Lower Ocean during your Santa Cruz holiday. Remember to also add Natural Bridges State Park and Cowell's Beach to your must-do list. Looking for more adventures? Consider exploring outside of Santa Cruz on tours and day trips.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has everything you need for the perfect break — surfing, cycling and history are just the start. Whether you'd like to check out attractions like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Santa Cruz Wharf, or take the path less traveled, you'll have plenty to do on your Santa Cruz holiday.
How to find the best Santa Cruz package deals?
Start your search for a Santa Cruz package deal by entering your destination and preferred trip dates under our "Packages" tab. Then apply some filters, like "Popular locations" and "Amenities," to tailor the results to your exact needs. You can also sort by "Package discount" and discover offers that come with huge savings. If you don't find the ideal Santa Cruz package deal straight away, just play around with your dates and search again. Keep in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Santa Cruz getaway off to a flying start.
Is it cheaper to book a Santa Cruz holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could score you significant savings when compared to booking flights and accommodation separately. Better still, you can customise your Santa Cruz trip to fit your exact style. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a rental car. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Santa Cruz?
If you've got your Santa Cruz holiday dates confirmed, book early to snap up some outstanding deals. With Expedia, you can generally reserve some flights up to one year ahead of time. Prefer spontaneous trips? Our last-minute deals are perfect for impromptu escapes.
How to plan a trip to Santa Cruz?
- Pick your travel dates: What you plan to do in Santa Cruz and your preferred season can help you decide when to get away.
- Set a budget: Factor in expenses like food, flights and transportation when calculating how much to put aside for your trip to Santa Cruz. Then, choose a property that fits your budget, whether that's a wallet-friendly stay or a high-end retreat.
- Decide how long to go away for: Now that you know more about Santa Cruz, you can figure out the perfect length of your holiday. Pull together a rough plan and give yourself enough time to cover everything you want to do.
- Bundle your accommodation and airfare: Once you've settled on your trip dates and duration, lock in the ideal Santa Cruz holiday package for you.
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Things to do in and around Santa Cruz
Shopping
Ocean Street is a vibrant shopping area in Santa Cruz, perfect for family and city vibes. For a more extensive experience, head to Swift Street Courtyard, which offers entertainment alongside shopping. If you're up for a drive, explore the Pacific Garden Mall, renowned for its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings.
Recreation
Experience rejuvenation at Luminescence Healing Haven, where soothing treatments await just 17.7km from Santa Cruz. Alternatively, enjoy the outdoors at Cinnabar Hills Golf Club, a scenic 32.2km drive perfect for golf enthusiasts. For further relaxation, visit Massage Envy Spa, located 38.6km away for blissful body treatments.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of the Sky Glider at the theme park, where family fun and adventure await. Challenge yourself at Boardwalk Bowl, an arcade adventure zone perfect for all ages. For a unique outdoor experience, try the Zip Line, a treetop walk located 9.7km away, offering exhilarating views.
Nightlife
Santa Cruz boasts a vibrant nightlife with its eclectic mix of beach bars and live music venues. Visit The Catalyst for top-notch performances and enjoy craft cocktails at Pacific Avenue's popular bars. Don't miss the lively atmosphere at Seabright Brewery, where you can unwind with locals over a pint.
Find the best attractions in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a beach holiday. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including beautiful beaches, national and state parks, and the iconic jetty pier. The local points of interest cater to those looking for a blend of beach relaxation, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities, ensuring a delightful getaway for all types of travellers.
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Experience the thrill of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a vibrant amusement park with a stunning seaside location. Enjoy a variety of rides and games, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike, all while soaking up the sun and the lively atmosphere.
- Mystery Spot: Discover the intriguing Mystery Spot, an exhibit that defies the laws of physics. Engage with its captivating illusions and learn about its unique cultural significance, making it a fascinating stop for those curious about the bizarre.
- Santa Cruz Wharf: Stroll along the Santa Cruz Wharf, a charming jetty where friendly locals gather. Enjoy stunning views of the coastline, indulge in fresh seafood, or watch sea lions basking in the sun, creating a warm and inviting experience.
Best time to go to Santa Cruz
The best time to visit Santa Cruz is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Santa Cruz
- Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Santa Cruz.
- Consider traveling to Santa Cruz during the low season (November to January) for more affordable options.
- Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
- Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.