Hotels in Rio del Mar

Discover the Enchantment of Rio del Mar: Where Coastal Wonders Meet Nature's Embrace

Nestled along California's stunning coastline, Rio del Mar is a charming beach town that invites travelers to bask in its sun-kissed beauty. Known for its pristine Rio del Mar State Beach, visitors can enjoy family-friendly sandy shores and breathtaking ocean views. Just a stone's throw from Santa Cruz, this hidden gem offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for beachcombing, picnicking, and exploring nearby state parks. With its scenic landscapes and inviting charm, Rio del Mar is the ideal escape for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for beach lovers and families alike. For great hotel rates in Rio del Mar, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Rio del Mar

Rio del Mar offers a mix of cozy vacation rentals and charming beachside accommodations. Visitors can choose from beachfront properties to spacious vacation homes, perfect for families or couples looking to unwind. Enjoy the laid-back vibe while being steps away from the stunning coastline. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Rio del Mar:

1. Chaminade Resort & SpaOpens in a new window: Chaminade Resort & Spa is a stunning 4.0-star resort that embodies the essence of a beachfront escape. Offering direct access to the beach, this property is an ideal choice for leisure travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. With a variety of exciting on-site activities, including a ropes course and nearby windsurfing and fishing opportunities, guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. The hotel features a fantastic spa, heated pools, and a restaurant that provides delightful dining experiences with beautiful views. The welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful touches create a memorable stay, making it a top choice for those looking for a distinctive coastal retreat.
2. Hotel ParadoxOpens in a new window: Hotel Paradox is a refined 4.0-star hotel that offers an exceptional experience for business travelers. This property features a well-equipped business center and versatile meeting spaces, ensuring seamless connectivity for work-related needs. Guests can unwind in the heated pool area or enjoy the relaxing ambiance of the bar. The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance to downtown, making it easy for guests to explore local attractions. With a commitment to comfort and convenience, Hotel Paradox is a premier choice for those looking to blend business with leisure in a stylish setting.
3. Inn at Depot HillOpens in a new window: Inn at Depot Hill is a charming 4.0-star bed and breakfast that captivates leisure travelers with its warm atmosphere and personalized service. Nestled in a picturesque location, this property offers a cozy retreat that feels like home. Guests can savor delightful breakfasts and explore the scenic surroundings at their leisure. The inviting décor and attentive hospitality create a welcoming environment, making it a beloved choice for those seeking a relaxing getaway. With its unique character and dedication to guest experience, Inn at Depot Hill stands out as a perfect destination for those looking to enjoy the tranquility of the area.

Top locations to stay in Rio del Mar

When visiting Rio del Mar, California, great areas to stay in include Westside Santa Cruz, Eastside Santa Cruz, and Pleasure Point. Westside Santa Cruz offers vibrant beach access and attractions like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Pleasure Point is ideal for ocean views and laid-back beach vibes. Eastside Santa Cruz is perfect for nature lovers. For first-time visitors, Westside Santa Cruz is the best choice.

1. Westside Santa CruzOpens in a new window: Westside Santa Cruz is a fantastic place to stay if you're looking to enjoy the beach and vibrant coastal life. With attractions like Capitola Beach and the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, you can soak up the sun, ride thrilling rides, and explore the charming seaside shops. Don't miss the quirky Mystery Spot, where gravity seems to behave unexpectedly. Evenings come alive with cultural experiences at venues like the Flint Center for the Performing Arts or a fun night at Boardwalk Bowl. Westside Santa Cruz offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and entertainment.
2. Eastside Santa CruzOpens in a new window: Eastside Santa Cruz is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape. This area is known for its beautiful gardens and proximity to the stunning Monterey Bay, making it perfect for leisurely walks and picnics. With access to scenic spots filled with flowers and lush greenery, you can unwind and connect with nature. Additionally, enjoy the local vibe as you explore nearby attractions that highlight the area’s natural beauty, making Eastside Santa Cruz a serene retreat away from the busier tourist spots.
3. Pleasure PointOpens in a new window: If you’re drawn to the beach and surf culture, Pleasure Point is a great choice for your stay. This laid-back area is known for its picturesque beaches and excellent surfing spots, making it a hotspot for water sports enthusiasts. Enjoy sunbathing or take a stroll along the sandy shores of Capitola Beach and Monterey Bay. While the nightlife here is more relaxed, you can still find fun activities like laser tag and entertainment options nearby, ensuring you have a memorable experience in this charming coastal community.

Things to do in Rio del Mar

Rio del Mar is a charming coastal destination that invites visitors to bask on sandy beaches and explore lush state parks. Enjoy thrilling rides at the amusement park, stroll along the scenic boardwalk, or unwind with a round of golf. With its perfect blend of relaxation and recreation, it's an ideal getaway for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike!

• Santa Cruz Beach BoardwalkOpens in a new window – Get ready for a day of fun at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, an amusement park nestled right by the ocean. Enjoy thrilling rides, play games, and savor classic boardwalk treats like cotton candy and funnel cakes. This vibrant spot promises excitement for the whole family, blending the beach experience with the charm of a traditional amusement park.
• Capitola BeachOpens in a new window – Head to Capitola Beach for a picturesque escape. This charming beach features colorful seaside cottages and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the view. Take a stroll along the shoreline or explore the nearby shops and eateries that add to the beach town's allure.
• Rio Del Mar BeachOpens in a new window – Discover the serene beauty of Rio Del Mar Beach, where you can unwind on soft sands and enjoy stunning ocean views. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely beach day, whether you want to build sandcastles, take a peaceful walk, or enjoy a picnic while listening to the waves.
• Mystery SpotOpens in a new window – Unravel the secrets of the Mystery Spot, an intriguing gravitational anomaly that will leave you scratching your head. Join a guided tour to experience the strange phenomena first-hand, where you’ll see objects roll uphill and discover the curious history behind this famous attraction.
• La Selva BeachOpens in a new window – Embrace the tranquility of La Selva Beach, known for its stunning natural beauty and less crowded shores. Perfect for a relaxing day, this beach invites you to enjoy leisurely walks along the coast, beachcombing, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Rio del Mar

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Rio del Mar are January, November, and December, when hotel prices typically drop. For an affordable getaway, consider staying for at least 2 to 3 days to fully experience the area's key landmarks and cultural attractions. During your visit, you can explore the stunning beach, the scenic national state park, the picturesque bay, and family-friendly beach options, as well as a nearby theme park. This way, you can enjoy great value for money while immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Rio del Mar.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To explore last-minute deals to Rio del Mar, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and unique promotions, increasing your chances of saving. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you make informed choices. With these resources, you're more likely to be the first to know about available rooms or price drops for a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a Rio del Mar hotel. If you're seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels might provide a more personalized touch and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll recommend alternative dates that could lead to better deals, increasing your chances of saving.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it usually tends to come with higher costs. If you're looking for more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, allowing you to balance price with accessibility to the places you want to visit. You might also check out independent hotels a bit farther out, which can offer a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Rio del Mar. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

Best time to go to Rio del Mar

Rio del Mar experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 50.4°F (10.2°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 64.9°F (18.3°C). January is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Rio del Mar, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.