Are you in a hurry?
Here is a quick list of Cheap Hotels in Santa Cruz, selected based on their rating
| Name of hotel | Accommodation Rating | Price, $ | |
| Ocean Gate Inn |
8.0 / 10 (205 Reviews) |
From 126$ | |
| The Inn At Pasatiempo |
8.1 / 10 (433 Reviews) |
From 139$ | |
| Howard Johnson By Wyndham Santa Cruz |
7.7 / 10 (942 Reviews) |
From 108$ | |
| Best Western Plus All Suites Inn |
7.7 / 10 (278 Reviews) |
From 134$ | |
| Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz |
7.8 / 10 (560 Reviews) |
From 72$ |
Dear Readers,
As I sit here pondering my adventures in Santa Cruz, I find myself entangled in the perplexing riddle of budget lodging. You see, there’s something enchanting about this coastal gem—the sun-kissed shores, the lively boardwalk, and the intoxicating scent of salt in the air. But finding that perfect balance between cost, convenience, and comfort can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. How does one navigate the indulgent world of budget accommodations without compromising on what truly matters: a good night's sleep in a location you adore?
In this splendid city, the myriad of options can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, you have a plethora of choices that cater to the savvy traveler; on the other hand, sifting through them can seem overwhelming. The conundrum of seeking out inexpensive lodgings often leads to questions of cleanliness, safety, and whether you’re actually saving money or merely sacrificing quality. Fear not, dear friends, for many discover that the art of finding affordable hotels is less about chasing down the cheapest rate and more about seeking out that hidden gem where comfort and location harmoniously coexist.
Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore, only to realize you're just a stone's throw from the scenic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk—all without breaking the bank. By honing in on your priorities and understanding your lodging options, you can dive headfirst into a delightful getaway without feeling the pinch of your wallet. So, as we embark on this journey together, let’s unravel the elements that make up the perfect trifecta of budget-consciousness: price, prime location, and unparalleled comfort.
Join me as we tread this intriguing path through Santa Cruz, and discover how you too can master the delicate dance of budget travel while still savoring the many joys this vibrant coastal town has to offer. After all, even on a budget, luxury can be found in unexpected places.
Best Cheap Hotels in Santa Cruz
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Ocean Gate Inn
From 126$
Situated around 15 minutes on foot from Seabright Beach, the 2-star Ocean Gate Inn Santa Cruz offers 21 rooms. Nestled in the Westside Santa Cruz district, the hotel is ideally situated within a 2-km distance of Santa Cruz Wharf.
This hotel is located in the centre of Santa Cruz, within a few blocks of Sky Glider cable car. Nearby sights also include Del Mar Theatre, which is nearly a 25-minute walk away.
Visit Duck Island Pond, within 1 km of the accommodation, and feel complete harmony with the nature of United States. Ocean Gate Inn is situated within reach of Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and Santa Cruz Metro Center bus station lies approximately a 15-minute stroll away.
Some of the spacious rooms are equipped with blackout curtains, climate control, and an ironing board, as well as media facilities such as complimentary wireless internet and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Guests can also use a roll-in shower and a separate toilet, along with such amenities as hairdryers. You can enjoy views of the river. Self-catering facilities in an apartment include a kitchen with a dishwasher, refrigerators, and kitchenware.
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The Inn At Pasatiempo
From 139$
The lovely Inn At Pasatiempo Santa Cruz is located around 25 minutes' walk from Harvey West Park and features a shared lounge and various recreational opportunities. Boasting the opportunity to go on a picnic by Carbonera Creek, which runs just 650 metres away, this 3-star boutique-style hotel offers to relax in a year-round outdoor pool.
Surrounded by mountains and gardens, the smoke-free hotel is 2.9 km from Museum of Art and History. Ocean View Park is right around the corner from Inn Santa Cruz, while Highway 17 & Pasatiempo Drive bus stop is approximately a 5-minute walk away.
There are 54 rooms at The Inn At Pasatiempo, each of them has climate control, as well as entertainment amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi and a multi-channel TV. A separate toilet and a shower, along with hairdryers and bath sheets, are featured. Guests can also enjoy views of the garden.
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Howard Johnson By Wyndham Santa Cruz
From 108$
The comfortable Howard Johnson By Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk hotel, located in the Westside Santa Cruz district of Santa Cruz, only 1 km from Museum of Art and History, features views of the ocean. The 2-star hotel provides guests with Wi-Fi in public areas.
The hotel, near an entertainment district, is not far from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park. Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is approximately a 20-minute walk from the accommodation and Mineta San Jose International airport is 55 km away.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Santa Cruz Main Beach, which is 550 metres away. Howard Johnson By Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk hotel is located about 10 minutes by car from Natural Bridges State Beach.
The Howard Johnson Santa Cruz has 27 rooms appointed with a multi-channel television, as well as self-catering options such as tea and coffee-making facilities. Guests will make use of hairdryers and free toiletries in bathrooms equipped with a separate toilet and a lowered sink.
Good Cheap hotels in Santa Cruz
When searching for good cheap hotels in Santa Cruz, travelers will find a variety of budget-friendly options that prioritize comfort and convenience without breaking the bank. These accommodations typically offer an inviting atmosphere and essential services that cater to the needs of those looking to explore the area without compromising on quality. Guests can expect clean rooms, friendly staff, and a location that allows easy access to local attractions, making it possible to enjoy a memorable stay while keeping costs low. Whether for a weekend getaway or a longer visit, these hotels provide a practical solution for budget-conscious travelers seeking an enjoyable experience.
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Best Western Plus All Suites Inn
From 134$
Located an 18-minute walk from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Iconic Amusement Park, Best Western Plus All Suites Inn Santa Cruz offers stylish rooms. The unique hotel features Wi-Fi in public areas and a private parking lot on site.
The hotel, with a prime location in Santa Cruz, offers guests to relax by Duck Island Pond, which is situated about 800 metres away. Sky Glider is approximately a 23-minute walk away.
Located in Santa Cruz, the accommodation lies a stone's throw from Shopper's Corner.
This Santa Cruz hotel has 80 rooms, comprising a sitting area. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels, along with a mini fridge bar, tea and coffee making facilities, are offered. Bathrooms inlude a separate toilet and a shower, and such fine comforts as hairdryers and bath sheets.
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Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz
From 72$
Providing 24 rooms, the 2-star Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz is situated nearly a 5-minute walk from San Lorenzo River. The inn features Wi-Fi in public areas and a car park on site.
Museum of Art and History is within reach of this hotel, while Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is merely 1.3 km away. The property is also located within 5 minutes' walk of Beach Flats Community Garden and approximately a 10-minute ride from Pacific Avenue.
Visit Duck Island Pond, 0.8 km from this Santa Cruz hotel, and feel complete harmony with the nature of United States. Guests can easily reach Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Iconic Amusement Park, situated only 8 minutes' walk away.
The rooms at Riverside Inn & Suites Santa Cruz have a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, along with tea and coffee-making facilities for your convenience. Private bathrooms include nice touches such as a hairdryer and toiletries.
Hotels in Santa Cruz
| Most comfortable Hotel 🛏️ | Ocean Gate Inn |
| Family Hotel 👪 | The Inn At Pasatiempo |
| Best Price Hotel 🤑 | Howard Johnson By Wyndham Santa Cruz |
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Bay Front Inn
From 92$
The 2-star Bay Front Inn Santa Cruz is nearly 10 minutes' walk from San Lorenzo River and features a sun deck, a picnic area, and a garden. Located fairly close to San Lorenzo River Parkway Trestle Trail, this smoke-free motel boasts 38 rooms with views of the Eiffel Tower.
The hotel is situated merely 1.1 km from Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, while Pacific Avenue is just 0.8 km away. From the Bay Front Santa Cruz it will take 13 minutes to walk to Neary Lagoon Park.
The accommodation is also in proximity to Monterey Bay.
The air-conditioned rooms at this Santa Cruz hotel are fitted with free wireless internet and a cable TV, some of them feature a parquet floor. Air conditioning are featured for guests' comfort. Offering a separate toilet and a shower, the bathrooms are also appointed with hairdryers and towels.
Cheap Hotels in Downtown Santa Cruz
Downtown Santa Cruz offers a variety of affordable accommodations that cater to budget-conscious travelers looking for convenient lodging options. Visitors can find a range of cheap hotels featuring simple yet comfortable rooms, ensuring a restful stay without breaking the bank. These budget-friendly options are typically within walking distance of various attractions, dining spots, and vibrant local culture, providing easy access to the area’s highlights. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, those seeking economic choices will appreciate the diverse selection available in this lively district, allowing them to enjoy the essence of the locale while keeping expenses under control.
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Surf City Inn & Suites
From 77$
Featuring a heated swimming pool, the 2-star Surf City Inn & Suites Santa Cruz is located in the Westside Santa Cruz district of Santa Cruz, a mere 1 km from Pacific Garden Mall. Offering whale watching, this smoke-free hotel is within easy reach of Beach Flats Community Garden.
Situated close to a garden, the motel is also near the beach district of Santa Cruz. Attractions around 25 minutes' walk from the accommodation include Neary Lagoon Park.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Seabright Beach, which is merely 1.2 km away. There is Santa Cruz Wharf nearly 20 minutes' walk away, and Santa Cruz Metro Center bus station is right around the corner from Surf City Inn & Suites.
Offering complimentary Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, the 67 rooms come with climate control to ensure a comfortable stay. A separate toilet and a shower, along with such comforts as toiletries and towels are also at guests' disposal.
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National 9 Motel
From 89$
National 9 Motel Santa Cruz is a great place to stay in the Westside Santa Cruz district, a 5-minute ride from Pogonip. Wi-Fi is accessible in public areas and parking is provided on site.
Santa Cruz Wharf is 3.3 km from this hotel, and Arana Gulch Trail is located 2.3 km away. The 2-star motel is also a 20-minute walk from San Lorenzo River.
National 9 Motel welcomes guests to 25 rooms complete with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, as well as comforts like an air conditioner. They include a microwave and a fridge. Featuring a separate toilet and a shower, the bathrooms also have hairdryers and bath sheets.
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Best Western Inn Santa Cruz
From 144$
The perfect Best Western Inn Santa Cruz, located in the Westside Santa Cruz district of Santa Cruz, offers a 24-hour front desk and wake-up service and also stands approximately a 20-minute walk from the performing arts theater "Rio Theatre". 2.4 km from Pogonip, the 3-star inn offers spacious rooms plus a fitness centre.
The hotel, with an ideal location in Santa Cruz, offers guests to relax by Duck Island Pond, which is situated around 20 minutes' walk away. Seabright State Beach is 3.2 km away, while First United Pentecostal Church of Santa Cruz is in the immediate vicinity of Best Western.
Best Western Inn Santa Cruz has 28 rooms appointed with an iPod dock and high-speed internet, as well as self-catering options such as coffee/tea making facilities. An iron and climate control are featured for guests' comfort. Enjoy views of the garden, while staying at this smoke-free hotel.
Cheap Hotels in Santa Cruz with Free Parking
Finding affordable accommodations in Santa Cruz that also offer free parking can be a convenient solution for budget-conscious travelers. These economical options allow visitors to save on lodging while enjoying the convenience of having their vehicles nearby without incurring additional costs. Many of these budget-friendly hotels cater to diverse needs, providing a comfortable stay with easy access to local attractions and activities. By staying in such establishments, guests can focus more on their experience and less on their expenses, creating a more enjoyable travel experience.
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Hotel Solares
From 67$
Situated nearly 10 minutes on foot from Santa Cruz Main Beach, the 2-star Hotel Solares Santa Cruz entices active guests with whale watching. Featuring a convenience store and luggage storage, the smoke-free hotel is only 1.7 km from Santa Cruz Wharf.
The hotel is located in a touristic area of Santa Cruz, approximately 20 minutes on foot from Cowell Beach. This Santa Cruz property is stationed only 1.8 km from L H Selman Ltd Glass Gallery.
Some of the 144 carpeted rooms at the accommodation are furnished with a writing desk and a walk-in wardrobe, and appointed with coffee/tea making machines and a microwave. They are fitted with sofa beds, a wardrobe and a walk-in closet. Offering amenities such as bath sheets, the bathrooms also have a walk-in shower and a sink.
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Mission Inn
From 114$
The 3-star Mission Inn Santa Cruz is only 1.5 km from Neary Lagoon Park and features a vending machine and free newspapers. Located a few steps from New Leaf Community Markets, this Santa Cruz inn boasts 55 rooms with views of the Eiffel Tower.
The hotel is nestled in the Westside Santa Cruz district, approximately 5 minutes on foot from the pizzeria Upper Crust Pizza & Pasta. Venus Spirits Distillery is in the vicinity of Mission Santa Cruz, and Mineta San Jose International airport is 60 km away.
This Santa Cruz property is also a short way from Monterey Bay. Mission Inn is situated 2.4 km from University of California at Santa Cruz.
Some rooms include a sitting area and a living room featuring ironing facilities and climate control, along with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Also, they feature tile flooring.
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Seaway Inn
From 99$
Offering a storage room, the 3-star Seaway Inn Santa Cruz lies in the Cowell Beach district, merely 0.6 km from Santa Cruz Wharf Pier and only 8 minutes' walk from Giant Dipper. Featuring 20 rooms with views of the sea, this smoke-free motel is 2.6 km from Natural Bridges State Beach.
You'll need 50-minute drive to Mineta San Jose International airport. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park is also just a 13-minute walk away.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Cowell Beach, which is 450 metres away.
Complimentary wireless internet and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels as well as tea and coffee-making facilities are offered in the air-conditioned rooms. The bathrooms come with a separate toilet and a shower, along with hairdryers and towels.
Family Cheap Hotels in Santa Cruz
Family cheap hotels in Santa Cruz provide budget-friendly accommodations that cater specifically to families seeking comfortable and affordable lodging options. These hotels often offer convenient locations near key attractions and activities, making it easy for families to explore the local area without breaking the bank. Many establishments prioritize creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests of all ages, allowing families to relax and enjoy their stay. Travelers can expect to find spacious rooms and helpful staff, ensuring a stress-free experience while they create lasting memories together. By focusing on affordability and family-oriented services, these hotels make it possible for families to enjoy their vacation without the added worry of high costs.
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Beachview Inn
From 60$
Featuring Wi-Fi in public areas, Beachview Inn Santa Cruz sits an 11-minute walk from Neary Lagoon Park. The hotel offers 14 rooms with views of the ocean.
This 2-star motel is located in the Westside Santa Cruz district, 750 metres from Santa Cruz Main Beach. Guests can also reach landmarks nearby, including Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, which is 16 minutes' walk away.
The property is also in the vicinity of Monterey Bay. Beachview Inn lies a short way from Santa Cruz Wharf.
The smoke-free property offers rooms with a sitting area featuring climate control, along with free wireless internet and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. A microwave oven and a refrigerator are available upon request. Offering hair dryers and bath sheets, the bathrooms also feature a separate toilet and a shower. Guests are welcome to use a kitchenette with a microwave and a fridge in a chalet.
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Oceana Inn Santa Cruz (Adults Only)
From 59$
Offering a seasonal outdoor pool, Oceana Inn Santa Cruz is situated in the Westside Santa Cruz district, around a 25-minute walk from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park. A car park is available on site at the motel.
This 2-star hotel is nestled 0.8 km from Duck Island Pond. Pacific Avenue is a short way from the property, while Soquel Avenue & Ocean Street bus stop is approximately 10 minutes' walk away.
This Santa Cruz hotel is located 2.2 km from Arana Gulch Trail.
The Oceana has 55 rooms, comprising a sitting area. A television with satellite channels, along with coffee and tea making facilities, are offered. You will find a microwave and a fridge as well.
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Carousel Beach Inn
From 109$
Featuring a lift and a vending machine, Carousel Beach Inn Santa Cruz is situated just a 13-minute walk from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park. A car park is available on site at the motel.
This 2-star hotel in the Santa Cruz Boardwalk district, a short way from Seabright State Sandy Beach. The historic Giant Dipper Wooden Roller Coaster is only 1.1 km from the property, while 2nd Street & Leibrandt Avenue bus stop is 450 metres away.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Santa Cruz Main Beach, which is around 10 minutes' walk away.
The Carousel offers rooms with a private patio featuring an air conditioner, along with complimentary Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Bathrooms with a separate toilet and a shower, also feature hairdryers and complimentary toiletries for guests' extra comfort. Some of these rooms have views of the ocean.
Pet-Friendly Cheap Hotels in Santa Cruz
For travelers seeking affordable accommodation that welcomes furry companions, Santa Cruz offers a variety of pet-friendly cheap hotels, providing a budget-friendly solution without sacrificing comfort. These establishments understand the importance of including pets in family travel and often boast a relaxed atmosphere conducive to both pets and their owners. Guests can typically enjoy reasonably priced rooms while benefiting from easy access to nearby parks and open spaces, where pets can frolic and explore. This makes it simple for visitors to find suitable lodging that caters to their needs while ensuring their beloved pets are welcomed and comfortable during their stay.
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Quality Inn Santa Cruz Downtown Area
From 72$
The 2-star Quality Inn Santa Cruz Downtown Area gives quick access to Shopper's Corner, situated just a 6-minute walk away. Located 2.9 km from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Iconic Amusement Park, this smoke-free inn also provides a golf club and a golf playground for guests who enjoy sports.
The hotel lies in the Westside Santa Cruz district, approximately 25 minutes' walk from the movie theater "Nickelodeon Theatre". From the pet-friendly Quality Inn Santa Cruz Downtown Area it will take approximately 30 minutes to walk to Santa Cruz Wharf.
Visit Duck Island Pond, 800 m from this family-friendly accommodation, and feel complete harmony with the nature of United States.
All of the soundproof rooms are appointed with high-speed internet and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels along with a minibar fridge, coffee and tea making equipment, and some of them include a balcony and a dressing area. They are outfitted with inviting decor.
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Super 8 By Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach
From 75$
Super 8 By Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk hotel, located a 5-minute walk from Beach Flats Community Garden, features Wi-Fi in public areas. This hotel in the Westside Santa Cruz district has a swimming pool, as well as parking on site.
The 2-star hotel is nestled within 800 metres of Duck Island Pond. Guests will also appreciate proximity to the historic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, which is a 16-minute walk away.
This property lies near parks. Super 8 By Wyndham Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk hotel is ideally located in Santa Cruz just a few steps from San Lorenzo Park Plaza Shopping Center.
The smoke-free property welcomes guests to 23 rooms complete with an iPod dock and cable channels, as well as comforts like an ironing set and air conditioning. They are appointed with a writing desk, and also feature tea/coffee making equipment. Bathrooms come with a separate toilet and a shower, along with a hairdryer and towels.
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Comfort Inn Santa Cruz North
From 94$
Located about 10 minutes' walk from Duck Island Pond, the 2-star Comfort Inn Santa Cruz includes an outdoor heated pool. Boasting access to Santa Cruz Wharf, 2.2 km away, this smoke-free hotel includes a hot tub, a sauna, and spa therapy providing guests with cosy rooms.
Nestled around 10 minutes' drive from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park, the inn is within 20 minutes' walk of DeLaveaga Park. The Comfort Inn Santa Cruz is also 1.3 km from Carbonera Creek.
You can stay in one of the 62 air-conditioned rooms featuring a cable TV with on-demand films and a DVD player along with coffee and tea making facilities, and a microwave. Ironing facilities are featured for guests' comfort.
Cheap Weekly Hotels in Santa Cruz
When searching for affordable weekly hotel options in Santa Cruz, travelers can find a variety of accommodations that offer budget-friendly rates without compromising on comfort. These cost-effective options cater to individuals and families alike, providing convenient access to local attractions and the surrounding natural beauty. Guests can typically enjoy the flexibility of weekly pricing, making it easier to plan longer stays while keeping expenses in check. With a range of choices available, visitors can select from simple lodgings that maintain a welcoming atmosphere and allow for a more extended exploration of the area. Such economical alternatives create an opportunity for memorable experiences without straining the wallet.
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Drift Inn, Llc
From 65$
Situated approximately a 5-minute walk from San Lorenzo River, Drift Inn, Llc Santa Cruz includes 11 rooms. The 2-star motel features Wi-Fi in public areas.
Guests can access Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park only 1.6 km from the hotel, while Cowell Beach is a mere 1.7 km away. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center is also located within 20 minutes' walk of the accommodation.
Visit Duck Island Pond, 800 metres from this budget hotel, and feel complete harmony with the nature of United States. Drift Inn, Llc is situated just near Beach Flats Community Garden.
The rooms provide air conditioning, along with a minibar fridge for guests' comfort.
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Islander Motel Santa Cruz Ca
From 105$
Islander Motel Santa Cruz Ca is located in the Westside Santa Cruz district, around a 10-minute walk from Duck Island Pond and offers a swimming pool onsite. The 2-star motel features Wi-Fi, provided in public areas.
The hotel is 2.2 km from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park and 2.1 km from Neary Lagoon Park. The accommodation is also 850 metres from Branciforte Creek 2.
The surroundings include a mountain, which are near this smoke-free hotel. Islander Motel Santa Cruz Ca is not far from Museum of Art and History.
There are 6 rooms featuring an iron and air conditioning, as well as modern amenities like a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Guestrooms also include a microwave and a fridge.
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Ocean Pacific Lodge
From 109$
Situated within 25 minutes' walk of the protected Lighthouse Field State Beach and 3.2 km from Natural Bridges State Beach, the 2-star Ocean Pacific Lodge Santa Cruz hotel features 2 spa tubs. Located within a few blocks of Museum of Art and History, this smoke-free motel offers a lobby area and a luggage room, and comforts such as a lift and a vending machine.
The hotel boasts a central location in the Westside Santa Cruz district, around 500 metres from San Lorenzo River Parkway Trestle Trail. Progressive Missionary Baptist Church is in close proximity to the pet-friendly Pacific Lodge Santa Cruz, and Mineta San Jose International airport is 55 km away.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Santa Cruz Main Beach, which is approximately a 15-minute walk away.
All of the air-conditioned rooms are appointed with free wireless internet and cable channels along with coffee and tea making facilities, and a microwave, and some of them include a kitchenette and a dining area. Also, they feature carpeted flooring. Some rooms look out onto the sea.