Whitewashed walls and terracotta tile set Marea Sol apart the moment you arrive. The Spanish-influenced aesthetic feels completely at home on the California coast, warm and unhurried in a way that suits this city perfectly. Inside, everything is pristine and modern, built to complement the setting rather than compete with it. Spend a night and you'll start to understand why people keep finding their way back to this stretch of the California coast.

Life is better at beach level.

Every guestroom is thoughtfully outfitted with plush pillow-top mattresses and upscale bath amenities. Flat-screen TVs with streaming capabilities and USB ports throughout mean the practical bases are covered without any fuss. When you're ready for fresh air, the rooftop deck delivers sweeping Pacific views under an open sky. Down at ground level, the outdoor pool and sundeck offer a more laid-back way to soak up the California sunshine.

Marea Sol Café is the perfect spot to start your morning, serving locally brewed coffee alongside fresh-baked pastries. When hunger strikes later in the day, the surrounding neighborhood delivers. Santa Cruz puts everything from fresh-caught seafood to globally inspired cuisine within easy walking distance from the hotel.