Santa Cruz accommodation from NZ$175

Things to Do in Santa Cruz

For an old-school Americana vibe, book Santa Cruz hotels near the Beach Boardwalk, where you can get a sugar rush from cotton candy, scream as you ride a wooden roller coaster and have a staring contest with the Pacific Ocean (warning: You’ll probably lose). To learn more about life in that ocean, tour the Seymour Marine Discovery Center and gawk at the giant blue whale skeleton. Santa Cruz holidays aren't complete without a visit to the Mystery Spot, a famous location where gravity just doesn't seem to work right. Round out your day with a walk around the University of California campus.

The surf’s always up in Santa Cruz, and you can learn all about it at the Surfing Museum. If you're more interested in hitting the waves, top surf spots include Cowell Beach and Steamer Lane. After spending the day at sea, greet the night by checking out the restaurants and bars located on Pacific Avenue and near Main Beach.

Getting To & Around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is 53 km from San Jose International Airport (SJC) and 98 km from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), so finding a flight is easy. (Plus, you can book accommodation in San Francisco to explore its famous Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf and more.) Santa Cruz has great bus service; or, explore car hire options on Wotif. But if you want to go like a local, rent two wheels instead: Biking is a great way to get around.

What are you waiting for? Sure, Wotif’s awesome deals on Santa Cruz accommodation aren’t going anywhere, but you deserve a break ASAP. Check us out and get ready to learn the meaning of “West Coast, best coast”.