Fodor's Expert Review Casa Patio Hotel Boutique

One of the best places to stay in Santa Cruz, thanks to dedicated hosts Nicole and Manuel, this small hotel is beautifully decorated with antique furniture, piles of curiosities, and eclectic art filling up every available space. The memorable rooms feature brick floors (which stay nice and cool in the heat) and are individually decorated, some with loud colorful walls, framed vintage posters, and bookshelves packed to teetering, and others more sedate. All the open spaces are equally filled with personality, and there are plenty of little nooks to relax in, such as a cool green central patio and even a small swimming pool. The abundant breakfasts are served with tasty homemade bread and marmalade, yogurt, and granola. Just 3 miles from the center, Casa Patio is considerably cheaper than the big resort hotel–type options that dominate the city.