La Bahia Hotel & Spa is set to open its doors in Summer 2025, introducing a new hospitality offer to Santa Cruz.

The property’s story began nearly a century ago, when architect and UC Berkeley professor William Hays envisioned the landmark to sit on Santa Cruz’s beachfront in 1926. Originally a series of apartments alongside a small hotel, the building was renowned for its Juliet balconies overlooking vibrant interior courtyards, romantic grillwork and sun-splashed tile. Now, it is poised to enter its newest chapter as a luxury hotel.

Courtesy of ForrestPerkins, La Bahia Hotel & Spa’s design evokes the feel of a seaside Mediterranean escape. One of the hotel’s most notable features is its historic bell tower, which has stood as a symbol of the local beachfront for nearly a century. Now restored, it has been seamlessly integrated into the design of the new hotel.

The arrival experience sees guests greeted by a collection of international and local artifacts, alongside a plush champagne lounge. 155 guestrooms, including 16 suites, give way to unobstructed ocean views, with a serene design derived from ocean elements and Spanish patterns.

Four F&B concepts find home on-site, offering a range of dining and drinking options. High Tide will take center stage as La Bahia’s signature destination restaurant, a Pacific Rim-inspired concept that uses its location perched on the Pacific Ocean as its primary inspiration. Low Tide Bar & Grill offers craft cocktails, live music and contemporary flavors, while Pearl, an elegant London-inspired champagne bar, will provide an elevated imbibing experience. Gracing the edge of the hotel’s oceanfront pool will be Plunge, serving up classic cocktails and poolside bites.

The Spa at La Bahia is set to include four indoor and four outdoor treatment rooms, a sauna that overlooks Monterey Bay, two steam rooms and a rooftop zen deck that provides clear sightlines out over the horizon. The spa derives its inspiration from the rich sea life that calls Santa Cruz home, specifically channeling the protected Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

“I am delighted to welcome travelers to La Bahia Hotel & Spa and awaken their sense of curiosity,” says Markus Krebs, General Manager of the hotel. “The unique spirit of the destination is truly captivating. This new hotel will provide a place to enjoy the rich culture and beauty of the quintessential California coastal town in a splendid setting.”