Luxury holidays in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is an urban jewel in coastal California’s crown, shining with surfing heritage and waterfront appeal on Monterey Bay’s north end. It’s got seaside charm in spades, thanks to a beach boardwalk and centuries-old pier with retro rides, and natural parks nearby prompt scenic hikes. The state’s sunny disposition — in climate and attitude — makes this beachy city a worthy pit stop on any Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

Recommended offers

See our boutique hotel deals

When to go

Santa Cruz delights throughout the year for its steady sunshine and potential for whale-watching (though breed will depend on the month). ‘June Gloom’ refers to summer’s sometimes foggy mornings; autumn months tend to be quieter.

Getting there

  • Planes

    San Jose Mineta International Airport and Monterey Regional Airport are each 45 minutes away by road from Santa Cruz; or touch down in San Francisco, which is just over an hour’s drive.

  • Automobiles

    Wheels come in handy for exploring beyond the city, to further afield beaches, national parks and wineries. San Francisco is under two hours’ drive; Carmel-by-the-Sea is closer, around an hour away by car.