10 Best Bed-and-Breakfasts In Santa Cruz, California - Updated 2024

Alfred
Alfred 
Updated
| 5 min read

Santa Cruz—meaning “holy cross” in Spanish—is a city located along California’s coastline. It features a long wharf that is home to several restaurants and shops, giving it the distinctive vibrancy of an American city. Stretching all the way to Monterey Bay, the city is full of attractions that draw visitors throughout the seasons. In the vicinity, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalks offers perfect spots for exploring, bound to keep you engaged throughout your stay. Downtown, Pacific Avenue is home to various shopping options, tempting eateries, and beautiful galleries worth your time. To fully enjoy your visit, you’ll need an ideal place to stay. Check out these best bed-and-breakfasts in Santa Cruz, California.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 08, 2024.

1. Luxury at the beach (from USD 345)

If you are traveling with a loved one—or maybe on your own—this rental is the perfect accommodation for you in Santa Cruz. It’s a private room at Cliff Crest Bed and Breakfast that comfortably fits two guests. This beautiful lodging is strategically located just a few minutes from the nearby boardwalk on foot, along with beautiful beaches and downtown Santa Cruz. This stunning room has a luxurious appeal with its elegant furnishings, ensuring an enjoyable stay. There is a queen-size bed and a private bathroom for your comfort, with a TV and WiFi provided for your entertainment.

Stayed at this property?
Santa Cruz, California, United States
40.16 km (25.0 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
94 reviews   Wifi Available
Private room in bed and breakfast 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
morning breakfast was delightful french toast croissants eggs coffee and fresh squeezed oj
delicious breakfast spread would definitely stay again
the beds were much more comfortable then i imagined
breakfast was wonderful each morning with a great view and a special touch to celebrate our anniversary
really comfortable rooms and breakfast was also a treat
Cleanliness:
the room was clean everything in the listing was accurate
Host:
adriana is a lovely host
adriana is an amazing host
adriana is a loving gracious host
she and her husband are the sweetness most caring hosts i've encountered
she is helpful welcoming and very warm
Location:
the house location is its best feature
it's super close to the boardwalk
being just steps away from the boardwalk made for a super convenient location in an otherwise hectic area
adriana’s place is a cute b&b very close to the santa cruz boardwalk
we enjoyed our stay very much and within walking distance to the beach delicious breakfast each morning
Read more reviews

2. A traditional house with modern amenities

The Cowhand Room is found right inside FlipJack Ranch. This traditional wooden house’s exterior tells a story of its age. However, the interior is a real contrast to this, boasting a modern setting that gives it a cozy look and warm appeal. This stunning room is fitted with a soft queen-size bed that promises total comfort within a farm setting. The room also features a private entrance, a large en suite bath, and a mini-fridge, all of which add to the luxury. Wake up to a hearty ranch-style breakfast, which includes fresh produce from the farm.

Stayed at this property?
Santa Cruz, California, United States
51.31 km (31.9 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
67 reviews  
ROOM IN BED AND BREAKFAST 1 Bed 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
their rooms and communal areas are very nice simple and welcoming
oh and breakfast was absolutely outstanding
enjoyed the pot of tea brought to our room and the homemade breakfasts very much
she is an amazing chef and the breakfasts were outstanding we would definitely return
robin's breakfasts were yummy and a perfect way to start the day
Cleanliness:
our room was quaint but fresh and extremely clean
beautiful forests clean and cozy rooms close to nature and quiet
Host:
the staff was very nice
robin was a wonderful host
robin and david are the best hosts we have ever had
robin is a wonderful host and she attended to our every need
wonderful breakfasts staff and fellow travelers
Location:
the location is fantastic as well
it's so much fun to play with the animals and walk around the beautiful grounds
super easy to get down to davenport where there is a great mexican place (cemitas)
Read more reviews

3. Romantic getaway by the beach (from USD 345)

Just like the first entry on the list, this private room is also found at Cliff Crest Bed and Breakfast, just minutes away from the boardwalk and the wharf, with the town of Santa Cruz nearby. The room features a private bathroom and bedroom, although you may choose to lounge at the shared living room. This stunning accommodation, which can comfortably accommodate three guests, boasts a king-size bed—with extra space for additional beds if needed.

Stayed at this property?
Santa Cruz, California, United States
40.06 km (24.9 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
28 reviews   Wifi Available
Private room in bed and breakfast 2 Beds 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bedroom was extremely comfortable as well and the mattress was really big and comfy
amazingly lovely b&b that is super cozy and delightfully decorated
the room was lovely
Host:
our hosts were very friendly and knowledgeable
she was very kind and accommodating to our needs
she was kind and warm to us the moment we confusedly parked on the property lot
owners really friendly ask about it's history
beautiful house and truly amazing and kind hosts
Location:
the location is also fantastic near the downtown and amusement park
amazing location parking on premises and very short walking distance to the beach and downtown
it's a perfect location close to the boardwalk restaurants and shops
adriana was a fantastic host her bed n breakfast was perfectly located and a great place to stay
the house is amazing and is a 3 minute walk to the santa cruz beach board walk
Read more reviews

4. A Victorian home across the beach (from USD 278)

Located right in the heart of Santa Cruz, just across Cowell’s Beach, is this three-story Victorian home offering a real restful bed and fabulous breakfast to wake up to. The guestrooms here are quite unique, accompanied by essential amenities and everything you may need for your comfort. When tired of staying inside, you can choose to venture out to the nearby Santa Cruz Beach and boardwalk or perhaps go on a bike-riding tour of Santa Cruz.

Stayed at this property?

West Cliff Inn, A Four Sisters Inn

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille

Address: 174 W Cliff Drive
39.84 km (24.8 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium

Parking Golf course (within 3 km) Terrace Non-smoking rooms Fishing Facilities for disabled guests Breakfast in the room Free parking

Nearby B&Bs

5. Luxurious historic house (from USD 95)

If you are an outdoor enthusiast who has no qualms about going on vacation alone, then this historic home will be perfect for your stay. It is located in Monterey Bay, and from here, there are a lot of fine outdoor activities to make your holiday memorable. You will actually be spoilt for choice between visiting Monterey Bay Aquarium or historic Cannery Row, or perhaps you can decide to go whale watching, fishing, or cycling. The Crows Nest is a room with war history, and the stunning views through the large windows are just breathtaking. It has a one-person double bed that will offer you a comfortable night’s sleep. Wake up to a continental breakfast consisting of healthy organic products.

Stayed at this property?
Seaside, California, United States
5.97 km (3.8 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
994 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 1 Bed 1 Guest 1 Bedroom 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 1

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
loved room 4 spacious for one with a lovely view
enjoyed their spacious bathroom and their bedroom views as well
thoroughly enjoyed the conversations with them and the other lucky guests over breakfast every morning
a delightful legit bed and breakfast
the historic bed and breakfast was a beautiful retreat just outside of monterey and about 10 minutes from carmel-by-the-sea
Cleanliness:
so clean and comfy
charm hospitality cleanliness were spot on
everything is very clean
the house is beautiful and sparkling clean
the room i stayed in was very clean and comfortable
Host:
overall great hosts with good responses
a lovely home with even lovelier hosts
jesse his mom and their crew were lovely hosts
wonderful hosts with helpful local tips
the hosts are super gracious and welcoming
Location:
fantastic stay great location as described & central to many areas for exploring
this place is definitely unique and memorable
the location is quiet comfortable and unassuming
the location was perfect only 4 miles away with a spectacular view
a great place to stay
Read more reviews

6. A lovely room with big windows (from USD 335)

Are you looking for a charming place with ocean views to die for? If yes, then this pleasant room is the perfect place for you. It is located on the second floor of Seven Gables Full Service Inn. Large windows offer the best picturesque views of Monterey Bay, the beautiful coastline, and the majestic mountains nearby. This well-furnished room is complete with modern amenities, boasts a king-size bed, and features a private tiled bathroom for your comfort. When tired of the indoors, venture out to explore the stunning coastline just a stone’s throw away.

Stayed at this property?
Pacific Grove, California, United States
1.44 km (0.9 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
94 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Room in boutique hotel 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great experience room was beautiful breakfast was great and the views were just breathtaking
great views from pretty much every room in the inn
the room was outstanding
the bed was extremely comfortable
our room was beautiful and the historic property is incredibly well appointed and cared for
Cleanliness:
the roomwas sparkling clean and staff were great
Host:
the staff were super hospitable and friendly
the staff is friendly and very helpful
preston and the rest of the seven gables crew were so friendly and welcoming
staff were friendly and ready to help with dinner plans or whatever we were doing in pacific grove
nearby organic and hip restaurants and the staff are eager to please you
Location:
beautiful location and the view from our room was magnificent
Read more reviews

7. A room with a view of the bay (from USD 305)

Named the Fairlawn Room, this accommodation is also found at Seven Gables Full Service Inn, on the ground level—with its own outside entrance. Do not be deceived by its ground-level location as you can still have breathtaking views of Monterey Bay from inside the room. The beautiful furnishings have merged so well with the cream and mauve colors of the interior to give the place a cozy and luxurious look. There is a pillow-top queen-size bed, along with a tiled bathroom fitted with a bathtub for your convenient comfort. A delicious breakfast awaits you every morning, wine and cheese are provided every late afternoon, and cookies and milk are issued in the evening.

Stayed at this property?
Pacific Grove, California, United States
1.46 km (1.0 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
120 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Room in boutique hotel 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
amazing place to stay very calm quiet and clean place
Host:
seven gables was in a great location staff was incredibly friendly and the check in process was easy
Read more reviews

8. A house near a beach and a golf course (from USD 213)

Stay at this adorable inn with unmatched hospitality, located in Pacific Grove, California. This is a secluded spot amid a woody and refreshing atmosphere, close to Asilomar State Beach and Pacific Grove Municipal Golf Course. The elegantly designed rooms are beautifully furnished and offer all the necessary amenities to make your stay enjoyable and comfortable. While here, you can decide to explore the nearby beach or perhaps go for a game of golf. For the adventurous, the historic Cannery Row or downtown Monterey is just a few minutes away by car.

Stayed at this property?
Pacific Grove, California, United States
3.03 km (1.9 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
310 reviews   Wifi Available
ROOM IN BED AND BREAKFAST 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we had fresh flowers in our room when we arrived and the breakfast was a bonus
room 108is an excellent accommodation with a large flat-screen tv king-sized bed gas fireplace and lots of windows
the small but tasty breakfast buffet was a nice touch
loved rishi and the room
the room was perfect
Cleanliness:
super clean and safe
very clean and quiet place
very clean nice breakfast
was very clean and smelled nice when we walked in
very clean and well put together room
Host:
the staff is very helpful
its staff was very friendly and helpful
beautifully decorated rooms caring staff and all round great service
rishi was a very gracious host
lovely place very clean great hosts and hospitality
Location:
great location walking distance from beach area
great location easy access to anywhere
great location quiet and cozy
location is perfect short drive to the downtown
wonderful place great location by asilomar park
Read more reviews

9. A cottage with an ocean view (from USD 365)

Carriage House is also found right inside Seven Gables Full Service Inn. This one-room cottage stands alone at the garden level, with a bay window giving a perfect view of the ocean. If you are planning a private romantic getaway with your special person, then this room is an ideal choice. The room boasts a king-size bed that has a partial canopy, with fluffy pillows for extra comfort. For warmth on cold nights, a fireplace is available, as well as a 40-inch television for your entertainment.

Stayed at this property?
Pacific Grove, California, United States
1.41 km (0.9 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
23 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Room in boutique hotel 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
amazing views excellent staff/hosts and very comfortable rooms
Location:
fantastic location and super cute
Read more reviews

10. Cozy suite near the ocean (from USD 495)

If you are two couples going on vacation together, a family of four, or perhaps a group of four friends, this second-floor suite at Carmel Country Inn B&B would be perfect for your stay. It features a spacious living room with a fireplace for warmth on cold nights. The sofa here can be converted into a third bed on top of those in the two separate bedrooms. For your complete privacy, there are two baths with showers and a third one fitted with a soaking bathtub for that extra pampering.

Stayed at this property?
Carmel, California, United States
6.73 km (4.2 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
33 reviews   Wifi Available
Room in hotel 2 Beds 5 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 5

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the best part of our stay was the floorboard heater in the bathroom
breakfast and snacks are included and they were quite nice / abundant
the breakfast was tasty and had a good variety
room was perfect for 2 couples
it was a 2 bed 2 bath apartment in a lovely bed and breakfast in carmel
Cleanliness:
the apartment was serviced and squeaky clean
Host:
great service staff really pleasant and helpful
kind and helpful staff delicious breakfast
great stay staff was very accommodating
we had a lovely stay at the carmel country inn and the staff was very welcoming accommodating and friendly
we were pleasantly surprised at how pet friendly the place is
Location:
great location very comfortable and breakfast and snacks were good
fabulous location walking distance to town centre and beach
superb apartment in a beautiful location
great location that’s close to the water and 17 mile drive highly recommended
really cute place and a 5-10 min walk to ocean ave and the beach
Read more reviews

Santa Cruz, the perfect getaway

California is a place you must visit at least once in your lifetime. While here, Santa Cruz can provide the perfect accommodation, one suited to your needs, with several tourist activities to keep you engaged throughout your holiday. With this city as your first choice, your vacation is bound to be memorable indeed.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Alfred is a freelance writer delighted to be a part of the Trip 101 team. He is focused on gathering experience to enable him to vividly depict the world around us. Alfred's content creation aims...Read more

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