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

Budget Hotels in Santa Cruz, California

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Check availability on Santa Cruz Budget Hotels

Tonight
Oct 7 - Oct 8
Tomorrow
Oct 8 - Oct 9
This weekend
Oct 9 - Oct 11
Next weekend
Oct 16 - Oct 18

Our top choices for Santa Cruz cheap hotels

A hotel room with a large bed, bedside tables, a desk, and a chair.
A conference room with round tables and chairs, a mounted TV, and a bulletin board with pamphlets.
A reception area with a counter, a desk, and a chair. There are framed pictures on the wall and a small shelf with magazines.
A row of motel buildings with orange doors and railings, featuring a central staircase and a parking lot.

1. Beachview Inn

Beachview Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Michael
P3,890
P5,168 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
Beachview Inn
The Ocean Pacific Lodge building with a clear blue sky.
A building with a blue and yellow facade, a sign indicating no vacancies, and the name "Ocean Pacific Lodge".
A reception area with two sofas, a plant, a map display, and a view of the outside.
A hot tub with a metal ladder, surrounded by greenery and a concrete deck.

2. Ocean Pacific Lodge

Ocean Pacific Lodge
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
James
P4,648
P6,183 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Ocean Pacific Lodge
A hotel room with two beds, a kitchenette, a sliding glass door to a balcony, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.
A room with two teal chairs, a small table with a vase of flowers, and a potted plant on a wooden side table.
A hotel with a covered parking area, a sign for the Torch Late Inn, and a building with a stone facade.
A patio with outdoor seating, red umbrellas, and potted plants.

3. Torch Lite Inn

Torch Lite Inn
Westside Santa Cruz
United States
Holly
P5,058
P5,872 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 20 - Oct 21
Torch Lite Inn
A room with two beds, a nightstand, a lamp, and a window with curtains.
Two bottles of BeeKind shower gel and conditioning shampoo with pump dispensers, labeled with honey and organic lemongrass extracts.
A framed landscape painting above a dark wooden desk with a red chair, a phone, and a light switch on the wall.
A building with a green door, a parking space with a red car, and a small window.

4. Holiday Motel

Holiday Motel
Morgan Hill
United States
April
P4,630
P5,209 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
Holiday Motel
A reception area with a glass door, an exit sign, and a painting on the wall.
A reception desk with a wooden wall backdrop displaying the text "INN AT MOSS LANDING POINT".
A modern lobby with green chairs, a coffee machine, a refrigerator stocked with beverages, and a wall with shelves of snacks.
A hotel room with a large bed, two bedside tables, a nightstand, a chair, and a potted plant.

5. Inn At Moss Landing Point

Inn At Moss Landing Point
Moss Landing
United States
Renato
P7,083
P8,487 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 3 - Nov 4
Inn At Moss Landing Point
A landscaped garden with a palm tree, bamboo fence, and a small shrub.
A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a sofa, and a nightstand with a lamp.
A breakfast buffet with a sign listing items like kale, banana, apple, organic yogurt, and pineapple.
An outdoor patio with two wicker chairs, a round table, and a large umbrella.

6. The Zen Hotel Palo Alto

The Zen Hotel Palo Alto
Green Acres
United States
Trae
P7,194
P8,323 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
The Zen Hotel Palo Alto
A hotel lobby with a fountain, palm trees, and a sign indicating the lobby area.
An outdoor patio area with wicker furniture, a fire pit, and a tennis table.
A modern hotel room with a bed, desk, chair, and artwork on the walls.
A gym with various exercise equipment, large windows, and a view of the outdoors.

7. Hotel Zico, BW Signature Collection

Hotel Zico, BW Signature Collection
Mountain View
United States
Mark Wayne
P8,892
P9,798 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 30 - Oct 31
Hotel Zico, BW Signature Collection
A motel with multiple rooms, a parking lot, and surrounding tall trees.
A large bed with a laptop, two bedside tables, a chair, and a window with curtains.
A covered patio area with a red sofa, black and red cushions, and multiple potted plants.
A motel with a parking lot, a building with a red roof, and a large tree in the background.

8. The Palo Alto Inn

The Palo Alto Inn
Palo Alto Orchards
United States
Devon
P5,438
P6,281 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
The Palo Alto Inn
A chef cooking outdoors with a grill and buffet setup.
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by a building with multiple windows and a covered seating area.
A dining table with a meal consisting of a salad, grilled meat, beans, and a glass of red wine.
A hotel room with two beds, a desk with a television, a dresser, a small cabinet, and a nightstand with a lamp.

9. Maple Tree Inn

Maple Tree Inn
Sunnyvale
United States
john
P5,603
P6,328 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 24 - Oct 25
Maple Tree Inn
A hotel lobby with a large stained glass ceiling, a reception desk, and seating area.
A hotel room with a neatly made bed, a bedside table with a plate of cheese and two wine glasses, and a lamp on the nightstand.
A large circular stained glass ceiling with a floral pattern.
A residential building with a swimming pool surrounded by greenery and a covered patio area.

10. The Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel
Sunnyvale West
United States
Carmen
P6,766
P7,625 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 30 - Oct 31
The Grand Hotel
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Find out more about Santa Cruz

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, is a paradise of affordable fun for budget-conscious travelers. Start your adventure at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where the classic amusement park offers free admission and affordable ride tickets, making it easy to enjoy a day of thrills without breaking the bank. Just a short stroll away, you can explore Natural Bridges State Beach, famous for its stunning rock formations and tide pools, perfect for a picturesque picnic or a day of beachcombing—all at no cost! If you're looking for culture, the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History offers free admission on certain days, allowing you to soak in local creativity without spending a dime. For a unique experience, visit the Santa Cruz Farmer’s Market, where you can sample fresh, local produce and enjoy live music while you shop. When it comes to budget-friendly accommodations, the downtown area is particularly appealing, with a variety of cheap hotels that provide easy access to these attractions. Stay near Pacific Avenue, where you can wander charming shops, grab a bite at affordable eateries, and embrace the vibrant local scene. With so many activities and comfortable lodging options, Santa Cruz is a fantastic choice for families and adventurous travelers seeking memorable experiences without overspending.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Cruz

Travelers seeking affordable accommodations in Santa Cruz will find these five hotels offer great value without compromising on quality. Each hotel features essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay while being easy on the wallet.Beach Street Inn and Suites

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Beach Street Inn and Suites is a charming budget-friendly option with a stellar review rating of 9.4, perfect for travelers looking to enjoy Santa Cruz's beautiful coastline. With free Wi-Fi and essential toiletries included, guests can relax and enjoy their stay without any worry. The hotel also provides beach towels and easy beach access for sun-filled days by the shore.
  • Other amenities: Guests will appreciate the inviting outdoor pool, hot tub, and daily housekeeping services for added convenience. The hotel boasts ocean views and features a private pool in select rooms for a touch of luxury. With nearby attractions like the boardwalk and hiking trails, Beach Street Inn and Suites is an ideal base for your Santa Cruz adventure.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Pacific Avenue - 0.2 miles, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center - 0.2 miles, Santa Cruz Wharf - 0.28 miles

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

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With a review rating of 9.2, the Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-sea Inn & Suites is an excellent option for budget travelers in the heart of Santa Cruz. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast that includes both continental and hearty selections, ensuring a fulfilling start to their day, along with free Wi-Fi for staying connected.
  • Other amenities: This hotel features a delightful outdoor pool, hot tub, and facilities for hiking and biking nearby. Other amenities include free self-parking, air conditioning, and family-friendly amenities such as cribs and rollaway beds, making it a versatile choice for all types of travelers. The nearby the beach and local attractions enhances its appeal for those looking to make the most of their Santa Cruz experience.
  • Nearby attractions: Twin Lakes State Beach - 1.55 miles, Capitola Beach - 0.99 miles, Capitola Wharf - 1.0 miles

Marea Sol Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Marea Sol Hotel stands out as a budget-friendly gem with an excellent review rating of 9.2, perfectly situated for travelers looking to explore Santa Cruz. Guests will appreciate the complimentary Wi-Fi and essential toiletries while enjoying the nearby stunning beaches, making it a great choice for seaside escapes.
  • Other amenities: This inviting hotel features an outdoor pool, a rooftop terrace, and ocean views from select rooms. Guests can unwind on furnished balconies while taking in the coastal atmosphere. The hotel also offers self-parking and easy access to nearby attractions, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for all visitors.
  • Neighborhood: Westside Santa Cruz
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 0.2 miles, Santa Cruz Main Beach - 0.17 miles, Main Beach - 0.12 miles

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Mission Inn

Mission Inn

10/10 Excellent
"This property is beautifully landscaped with very nice, clean rooms. It offers a free breakfast with many choices. If you have mobility issues, be aware there is no elevator and the breakfast room is on the second floor. It is not extremely close to the wharf or boardwalk, so plan to drive or Uber there unless you’re an avid walker. Staff was very friendly & responsive."
Julie 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Mission Inn

Frequently asked questions

What is Santa Cruz like for travelers on a budget?
Santa Cruz has a variety of cheap accommodations and things to do, making it a great getaway spot for budget travelers. In addition to its well-known attractions like Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay, this destination is home to University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum and Pleasure Point Park, which you can enjoy while spending very little.
What's the best accommodation for a budget-friendly stay in Santa Cruz?
Based on our traveler 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, and keep 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 temp of 63°F, while the coldest months are February and March with an average of 52°F. Average annual precipitation for Santa Cruz is 27 inches.
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 center in Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal). However, if that doesn't suit your budget, you can look into flights to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC), which is 27.6 mi (44.3 km) away. Santa Cruz might not have very many public transit options so a rental car could be a reasonable alternative to see the area.

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