Hotel
On a busy but well insulated street and walking distance of food and businesses. Kid friendly with a pool and 1/2 mile to the beach. Without a discount rooms average about $206.00/night.
Hotel
Pretty upscale with beautiful rooms and lovely gardens. It's 4 blocks from the beach so rooms fill up quick! Rooms average about $275.00/night without a discount.
Hotel
Recently renovated, this hotel is slightly farther away but two blocks from an excellent walking beach. Rates average $160.00/night on Hotels.com.
Hotel
Located in downtown Santa Cruz and a great option for, well, Hipsters;) Rooms average $229.00/night on Hotels.com.
Hotel
For a beautiful but more "no frills" location, check this out! You need not be a Buddhist or participate in any religious activities but it's a beautiful spot with easy access to hiking and peaceful surroundings. They don't book out quite far enough but rooms in mid July average $200.00/2 nights.
Flight
San Jose is the closest major airport serving the Santa Cruz area. If your local airport doesn't fly to San Jose, than San Fransisco is another option, just a bit farther away.
Travel Note
If flying into San Jose International, santacruzshuttles.com is available for approximately 50.00-60.00. If traveling in a group it is likely just as cost effective, if not more, to get an Über or a Lyft. If you're hoping to explore the area, we suggest you check out weekend rates for rental cars as well.