7 Stylish Boutique Hotels in Santa Cruz, California
Looking for the best boutique hotels in Santa Cruz, California for an unforgettable coastal stay? I’ve got you covered.
Santa Cruz blends classic California surf culture with a laid-back yet vibrant energy, making it the perfect spot for a boutique hotel getaway. Whether you’re here for the beaches, scenic coastal walks, or the buzzing downtown scene, the right boutique hotel will elevate your experience.
On my last visit, I stayed at a stylish oceanfront hotel, where mornings started with coffee on a private balcony overlooking Monterey Bay. Days were spent strolling along West Cliff Drive, soaking in the Boardwalk’s nostalgic charm, and discovering local cafes. By evening, I was unwinding in the hot tub while watching the sunset over the Pacific.
From sleek, modern beachfront hotels to charming Victorian inns, Santa Cruz has a boutique stay for every traveler. Let’s dive into the best boutique hotels in Santa Cruz, California!
My Favorite Boutique Hotel in Santa Cruz
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TOP PICK.
1. Dream Inn Santa Cruz
✓ Rating: 8.7 / 10 | Reviews: 950+ | View on Booking.com
Best For | Ocean Lovers, Laid-Back Luxury Travelers
Location | Sitting right on the Santa Cruz beachfront, Dream Inn is the only beachfront boutique hotel in the area. Steps from the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf and Boardwalk, it’s an ideal base for a classic California coastal getaway. Walk along the sand, rent a surfboard at Cowell’s Beach, or grab fish tacos at a nearby seafood shack.
Features & Facilities | Dream Inn blends retro surf vibes with modern comforts. The heated outdoor pool and hot tub offer prime ocean views, and the poolside bar serves up craft cocktails and light bites. The hotel’s Jack O’Neill Restaurant, named after the legendary surf pioneer, focuses on fresh, locally sourced seafood with a view. Complimentary bike rentals make it easy to explore the laid-back beach town, while valet parking adds extra convenience.
Rooms | All 165 rooms at Dream Inn feature private balconies or patios overlooking Monterey Bay—perfect for sunset views and morning coffee with the sound of the waves. The mid-century modern design pairs bright, beachy colors with plush furnishings. Expect comfortable king or double queen beds, organic bath products, Nespresso machines, and large flat-screen TVs. Upgrade to a suite for extra space and a separate sitting area.
2. Hotel Paradox
✓ Rating: 8 / 10 | Reviews: 500+ | View on Booking.com
Best For | Design-Conscious Travelers, Urban Explorers, and Nature Lovers
Location | Tucked into a redwood-lined street just minutes from downtown Santa Cruz, Hotel Paradox offers a stylish, nature-inspired escape in the heart of the city. Walk to Pacific Avenue’s shops and cafes, explore the Santa Cruz Riverwalk, or take a short drive to the iconic Boardwalk and beaches.
Features & Facilities | True to its name, Hotel Paradox blends raw, natural elements with sleek modern design. The heated outdoor pool, surrounded by towering redwoods, has a lively bar serving craft cocktails and small bites. Solaire Restaurant showcases farm-to-table cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can also enjoy a 24-hour fitness center, complimentary bikes, and pet-friendly accommodations.
Rooms | Rooms feature a minimalist, wood-and-metal aesthetic, with plush beds, rainfall showers, and locally inspired artwork. Expect modern conveniences like Keurig coffee makers, smart TVs, and eco-friendly bath products. For extra space, upgrade to a suite with a separate living area and oversized soaking tub.
3. Chaminade Resort & Spa
✓ Rating: 7.6 / 10 | Reviews: 325+ | View on Booking.com
Best For | Wellness Seekers, Couples, and Nature Lovers Looking for a Relaxing Retreat
Location | Set on a hilltop overlooking the Monterey Bay, Chaminade Resort & Spa offers a secluded escape surrounded by 300 acres of eucalyptus and redwood forest. Though it feels worlds away, it’s just a 10-minute drive from downtown Santa Cruz, the Boardwalk, and the beach.
Features & Facilities | Designed for relaxation, Chaminade blends luxury with nature. The full-service spa offers massages and wellness treatments, while outdoor activities include hiking trails, tennis courts, and yoga classes with stunning bay views. The resort-style pool and hot tub provide the perfect place to unwind. Linwood’s Bar & Grill serves California-inspired cuisine on an outdoor terrace, and fire pits dot the property for cozy evenings under the stars.
Rooms | Earthy tones, contemporary furnishings, and private patios or balconies create a tranquil atmosphere. Plush beds, rainfall showers, and large flat-screen TVs come standard, while suites offer fireplaces and soaking tubs. For the best views, opt for a room overlooking the forest or ocean.
4. West Cliff Inn, A Four Sisters Inn
✓ Rating: 9.1 / 10 | Reviews: 285+ | View on Booking.com
Best For | Romantic Getaways, Beach Lovers, and Travelers Seeking a Cozy, Upscale Stay
Location | Sitting just above West Cliff Drive, West Cliff Inn is a beautifully restored Victorian mansion with sweeping views of the Monterey Bay. Steps from Cowell’s Beach and the Santa Cruz Wharf, it’s an easy walk to the Boardwalk, scenic coastal trails, and downtown’s shops and restaurants.
Features & Facilities | With just ten rooms, West Cliff Inn offers an intimate boutique experience. A gourmet breakfast is served daily, featuring fresh pastries, local fruit, and made-to-order hot dishes. Guests can enjoy complimentary afternoon wine and cheese on the wraparound porch or borrow beach cruisers for a ride along the coast. Free parking and personalized concierge service add to the stress-free experience.
Rooms | Elegant yet cozy, rooms feature high ceilings, soft neutral tones, and modern comforts like gas fireplaces, plush king beds, and soaking tubs in select suites. Many rooms have private balconies with ocean views, making them perfect for a romantic seaside escape.
5. Seaway Inn
✓ Rating: 8.5 / 10 | Reviews: 20+ | View on Booking.com
Best For | Budget-Friendly Travelers, Families, and Beachgoers Looking for a Relaxed Stay
Location | Just steps from the Santa Cruz Wharf and West Cliff Drive, Seaway Inn offers a prime location for those wanting to be close to the beach without the high price tag. Walk to Cowell’s Beach, explore the Boardwalk, or take a scenic stroll along the cliffs for ocean views. Downtown Santa Cruz is just a short drive or bike ride away.
Features & Facilities | A laid-back boutique motel with a welcoming atmosphere, Seaway Inn provides a comfortable stay with thoughtful amenities. A complimentary continental breakfast is served each morning, and free on-site parking makes it easy to explore the area. Guests can relax in the outdoor seating area with fire pits or rent bikes to cruise along the coast.
Rooms | Bright and airy, rooms feature coastal-inspired decor with modern touches. Expect plush beds, mini-fridges, microwaves, and flat-screen TVs. Some rooms offer partial ocean views, and suites include extra space with separate living areas—perfect for families or longer stays.
6. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Cruz
✓ Rating: 8.1 / 10 | Reviews: 350+ | View on Booking.com
Best For | Business Travelers, Families, and Travelers Seeking Modern Comfort with Reliable Amenities
Location | Conveniently located near downtown Santa Cruz, the Courtyard by Marriott offers easy access to the city’s best attractions. It’s a short walk or drive to Pacific Avenue’s shops and restaurants, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and West Cliff Drive’s scenic coastal paths.
Features & Facilities | This modern hotel blends contemporary style with practical amenities. The spacious lobby features workspaces, a coffee bar, and The Bistro, which serves breakfast, dinner, and cocktails. A heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center provide options for relaxation and exercise. Business travelers will appreciate the meeting spaces and high-speed Wi-Fi, while on-site parking adds extra convenience.
Rooms | Sleek and functional, rooms feature plush Marriott bedding, ergonomic workstations, and large smart TVs. Mini-fridges, coffee makers, and walk-in showers come standard, while upgraded rooms offer balconies or extra seating areas. Whether you’re in town for work or leisure, it’s a solid choice for a comfortable, hassle-free stay.
7. Marea Sol Hotel
✓ Rating: 8.5 / 10 | Reviews: 590+ | View on Booking.com
Best For | Design-Conscious Travelers, Couples, and Beach Lovers Looking for a Stylish, Modern Stay
Location | Sitting right along Santa Cruz’s famous Beach Street, Marea Sol Hotel places you just steps from the sand. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Wharf, and Cowell’s Beach are all within a short walk, while downtown’s shops and restaurants are just a few minutes away by bike or car.
Features & Facilities | Sleek and modern, Marea Sol brings a boutique hotel experience with a minimalist coastal aesthetic. The rooftop terrace offers panoramic ocean views, perfect for sunset drinks or morning coffee. Guests can enjoy complimentary beach gear rentals, secure bike storage, and an on-site café serving local pastries and coffee. Private parking and keyless entry add a seamless, modern touch.
Rooms | Bright, airy, and thoughtfully designed, rooms feature plush beds, contemporary furnishings, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Many offer ocean-facing balconies, ideal for catching the sea breeze. Expect luxe bath products, walk-in rainfall showers, and high-speed Wi-Fi. For extra space, opt for a suite with a separate lounge area.
Santa Cruz Boutique Hotels Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best boutique hotels in Santa Cruz?
Dream Inn is the best boutique hotel in Santa Cruz for its unbeatable beachfront location, stylish mid-century design, and ocean-view rooms. Every room has a private balcony overlooking Monterey Bay, and the heated outdoor pool and Jack O’Neill Restaurant make it a top choice for a luxury coastal getaway.
What is the best boutique hotel in Santa Cruz with a pool?
Dream Inn is the top boutique hotel in Santa Cruz with a pool, offering a heated outdoor pool and hot tub overlooking Monterey Bay. Its beachfront location, stylish surf-inspired design, and poolside bar serving craft cocktails make it the perfect spot to relax with stunning ocean views.
What is the best hotel in Santa Cruz for couples?
West Cliff Inn is the best boutique hotel in Santa Cruz for couples, offering an intimate, romantic atmosphere in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion. With ocean-view rooms, cozy fireplaces, and complimentary wine and cheese in the afternoons, it’s the perfect setting for a relaxing and scenic seaside getaway.
What is the most luxurious hotel in Santa Cruz?
Chaminade Resort & Spa is the most luxurious boutique hotel in Santa Cruz, offering a secluded hilltop retreat with panoramic Monterey Bay views. With a full-service spa, fine dining at Linwood’s Bar & Grill, scenic hiking trails, and elegant suites, it’s perfect for those seeking a refined, high-end experience.
What is the best hotel in Santa Cruz for families?
Dream Inn is the best boutique hotel in Santa Cruz for families, thanks to its beachfront location, spacious rooms with ocean views, and a heated outdoor pool. Kids love being steps from the Boardwalk, while parents appreciate the on-site restaurant, beach gear rentals, and relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
What is the best hotel with direct access to Santa Cruz Beach?
Dream Inn is the best boutique hotel with direct beach access in Santa Cruz. Located right on Cowell’s Beach, guests can step outside and be on the sand in seconds. With private balconies overlooking Monterey Bay and a heated oceanfront pool, it’s the ultimate beachfront stay in Santa Cruz.
What is the best hotel in Santa Cruz with a spa?
Chaminade Resort & Spa is the best boutique hotel in Santa Cruz with a spa. Its full-service spa offers massages, facials, and wellness treatments in a tranquil hilltop setting. With steam rooms, an outdoor heated pool, and yoga sessions, it’s the perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Best Santa Cruz Boutique Hotels Conclusion
Santa Cruz offers the perfect mix of coastal charm, surf culture, and boutique hotel luxury. Whether you’re looking for an oceanfront escape, a cozy historic inn, or a modern retreat, there’s a boutique hotel that fits your style. Wake up to Pacific Ocean views, explore scenic West Cliff Drive, and unwind with top-tier amenities.
With incredible beaches, a lively downtown, and endless outdoor adventures, Santa Cruz is the ultimate California getaway. Ready to experience it for yourself? Book a boutique hotel in Santa Cruz and make your stay as unforgettable as the stunning coastline that surrounds it.
