SANTA CRUZ Calif.—La Bahia Hotel & Spa has officially opened on Santa Cruz’s Main Beach, marking the destination’s first luxury hotel. The 155-room property occupies the historic La Bahia site, originally envisioned by architect and University of California, Berkeley professor William C. Hays nearly a century ago.
The hotel incorporates Mediterranean-inspired design by ForrestPerkins, with a restored bell tower that has long served as a local landmark. The property features 29 suites, ocean-view guest rooms, marble bathrooms, and a rooftop spa with a signature ocean-view sauna and zen deck, following the hotel’s guiding ethos, “More to Sea.” Amenities include a pool complex, e-bikes, beach butler service, and cabana rentals.
Dining options span four venues led by executive chef Fernando Reyes. High Tide serves Pacific Rim-inspired dishes, while Low Tide Bar & Grill offers cocktails and live music. Pearl, a champagne bar in the lobby, and Plunge, a poolside lounge, complete the lineup. Local partners include Cat & Cloud Coffee, Penny Ice Cream, and Almond Surfboards.
“We are thrilled to officially open our doors at La Bahia Hotel & Spa,” said Markus Krebs, general manager. “Santa Cruz is a singular place with a truly special community. We look forward to welcoming guests to the hotel and creating memorable, engaging, and elevated experiences.”
The spa program draws on the region’s history of saltwater bathhouses. Facilities include eight treatment rooms, two steam rooms, and services inspired by Monterey Bay’s marine environment, such as the “Tides of Tranquility” ritual with dry brushing, sound therapy, and seaweed wraps.
La Bahia also offers more than 13,000 square feet of event space. The Seaside Roof Deck provides 5,200 square feet with views of Monterey Bay and the surrounding redwoods, while the Bahia Ballroom incorporates Spanish Mediterranean architectural details.
The hotel has established partnerships with Lincoln to provide guests with test drives of its Navigator and Nautilus models and Dune Suncare for complimentary skincare at the pool. Guests can book activities, including surfing lessons, brewery and vineyard tours, and sailing excursions.
