The Best 15 Hair Salons in Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz

Lydia Harville I just got done seeing Lara for the second time. She did partial highlights and a cut on my curly hair. Both times the color and cut have come out beautifully! At one point I got a little anxious that it was going, may be a little too short, but She reassured me by showing how little she had actually cut off and when it was dried and styled it was perfect. She is very personable and really lovely to work with. Very, very happy with the results.!

Seth Clark Lara is awesome, super kind, always on time and listens to what you want. Also a great trait is she’s willing to adjust as needed while she cuts. As a man who’s gone to her for long, shoulder length hair cuts and short cuts, she’s very versatile in all.

Gisele Muller Sasso I had been stalking Lara on Instagram for a couple of months, admiring her work, and finally decided to give it a try—and I’m so glad I did! During my first appointment, she worked her magic correcting the color of my hair, which was in desperate need of help. I loved the results so much that I booked a second appointment for a haircut and keratin treatment, and once again, she exceeded my expectations. My hair feels healthier, looks more vibrant, and the cut is great. Her space is super stylish, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. Plus, her energy is amazing! I highly recommend Lara to anyone looking for a talented and professional stylist. I will definitely be back!

Emilia Cline Arellano Before I met Lara I had never dyed my hair, but I was looking for a change. Lara has guided me through the process and helped me grow my confidence with every cut and color. She knew that this was a big change for me and made sure that I felt comfortable every step of the way. Each time I leave her salon, I feel so happy with how my hair looks and feels. Ive tried red and blonde and am blown away by Laras knowledge and talent regarding color. I would recommend her for anyone looking to try something new with their hair.

Jeremy W Michelle was absolutely wonderful. She is extremely kind, skillful, and knowledgeable. I dont see myself going anywhere else for as long as I am in the area.

Ashley Walker Can’t recommend this salon enough! Michelle is so talented and I always leave feeling beautiful. I’ve been going to Michelle for about a year now for highlights. I’ve gotten highlights for decades and I have to say my hair has never EVER been this healthy and shiny while also being this blonde. The color line she uses is so gentle but effective that it has kept my hair from breaking at all which if you’re blonde you know is impressive! Go see Michelle!

Jenifer Liu Michelle did a wonderful job with my daughter’s haircut. She is friendly, professional and really good with kids. Highly recommend.

Phoenix ASC I had an amazing experience here, not only was Glenn super nice and friendly he supported that energy with a lovely environment and great music. I had a failed DIY experience and he managed to not only save my hair but make it look beyond great not only that but my parking meter had a 30 minute limit so this guy runs across the street mid haircut to fill it up now that’s some service right there SUPER GREAT HAIRCUT FOR A GREAT PRICE

Nicholas Eyestone The only place in Santa Cruz thats given me a good haircut in my two years as a student here so far. I got my hair cut by Glen who was super helpful and even gave me some good styling advice. Great place, nice environment, and a good price. They know what theyre doing!

Leif Osborn I just moved to the area and was looking for a new barber. Its usually an excruciating process because Im pretty picky about my hair, and it usually takes a few bad haircuts to find the right spot. Because of the reviews I read, I went to Surf City for my first haircut in a new city. Im not exaggerating when I say this, Glen gave me the best haircut Ive ever had, hands down. I usually dont do reviews, but in this case, I want people to know Glen is the real deal. I couldnt be happier with my experience, and Ive become a lifelong customer as long as I live within driving distance. Thank you Glen!

Patrick Vuscan Got a hair cut from Glenn and walked out super happy, I think it’s the best one I’ve gotten so far in Santa Cruz. Glenn is kind, cool with conversation or just being quiet, and friendly. Recommend this place!

Christian Ternus I trusted Glen to cut my hair the day before officiating my best friends wedding. Not only was he warm and friendly, he did an excellent job: I got compliments on my hair the next day! This is my new barbershop and Im looking forward to going back.

Lucia Orlando Ive had my hair done here for over 15 years. I love the stylists, they do great cuts and are so nice and fun to chat with. Kamryn and Chloe make me look and feel fabulous! They have a loyal clientele and I suspect Im the first to review them because others want to keep this treasured spot a secret!

melissa schilling Kamran is courteous, funny, knowledgeable. She takes great care of my blonde curls. I love SCHD!

Audrey Young-Tarter Kamryn is fantastic! She cuts hair exactly like I like it and she is a great colorist! I Highly recommend her!

Jeff Swisher Sr. This is the place!! These two ladies rock! Excellent work, at a fair price. Highly recommend SC Hair Design. J

Lisa Allison Extremely impressed!!! Roxanne is an incredibly talented colorist and stylist. Her experience in the beauty industry shows through in her precise technique in both color and cut. By far the best highlights I have ever had!! While being both fast and accurate she is also very engaging and warm. She asked me what I wanted and the results were above and beyond any and all expectations I had!!

Julie Sangimino ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Roxanne cut my hair for the first time a couple of days ago, and let me just say - I’m never going anywhere else!! My hair is very thick & curly and she handled it like an absolute pro, taking the time to understand my personal situation and make recommendations tailored specifically for my personality and lifestyle. I’ve implemented her suggestions over the last several days, and they’ve worked better than any recommendations I’ve received in the past. She even French braided my hair before I left. 10/10 recommend! Super cute studio as well, nice and private!!

Heidi Martinez Ive been going to Roxanne Burdick for over 15 years, and Ive never been disappointed. Roxanne is always friendly and professional. She takes the time to listen to what I want and makes sure I get the perfect haircut and color. One of the things I love about Roxanne is that she has the highest quality products. My hair always feels soft and healthy after a visit, and the color always lasts. If youre looking for the best hairdresser in Santa Cruz, CA, I highly recommend On The Rox Beauty Bar. You wont be disappointed. Heidi

Marina Crawford Absolutely love Roxann, she is such a great stylist, so personable, and so great at figuring out exactly what you want. I came in never having done anything to my hair, and she gave me exactly what I wanted, subtle change nothing drastic but definitely a change that I LOVE and that makes me feel amazing! Love her tons and you will to! Also her salon has the best vibes!

Zephora Takahashi I’m in love with my new hair!!! It’s rare to find hair stylists that work and are knowledgeable with curly hair but she did an amazing job on my cut and balayage. Best hair stylist in Santa Cruz!

Alia (Rapwnzel) I have struggled with my hair for a long time. Every time I thought I figured out my curls, something still didnt feel right -- they only lasted a day, they got dull looking over the months. Not only that but my scalp health has been so bad lately. I went in feeling like a mess, and by God, Noelle was the hero I needed. Not only did she rescue my hair (and my confidence), but she gave me the knowledge to keep my hair healthy and therefore beautiful. ALSO she diagnosed my dandruff issue and recommended a certain shower head and now not only my scalp but whole body has stopped itching. It has been one week since I started the routine she taught me and my hair is looking better by the day! Im not afraid of next day frizz anymore, not afraid that buildup will start weighing me down. I couldnt find a single flake on my scalp today. I accidentally caught my reflection earlier and had to take a second look because my curls were so shiny! I could go on and on. Something about the way my curls coil feels more like *me*. All this to say, 100/10! If you have curly hair she is an absolute wizard -- the cut she gave me was exactly what i was hoping for. The scalp massage was divine. And the advice she had was so appreciated and welcomed - she was not pushy in any way. I showed an interest in learning so she obliged; she even emailed me all the stuff we went over so i wouldnt get overwhelmed. She was so sweet to both me and my fiancé who also had his hair done by her and agrees with every word of praise I have for Noelle! This picture doesnt do it justice, but its from this evening after going to work with wet hair and it still turned out ok

Stephen Preston Noelle is a pro among pros! For over three years Noelle provided excellent service, consultation, and a unique and comfortable environment to relax in. Shed be cutting my hair today if I didnt have to move away. Im exceedingly picky about who cuts and styles my hair, and I was never disappointed with Ritual Curl! Noelles expertise saw me through countless journeys and experiments through hair and beauty.

Marion Miller Farzaneh has been my go-to hair person for years, and weve done bobs, lobs, blunt bangs, curtain bangs, undercuts, long layers, and more. Every cut feels modern and easy. I trust her to keep things the same when its working and help me figure out how to switch it up when its time for a change. Im not a hair stylist, so I really appreciate Farzanehs ability to talk through whats possible and realistic to expect for my hair type (and my preference for low-maintenance daily styling). She has recently opened up appointments earlier in the day (7 a.m. on some weekdays!) which is perfect for my work schedule. Her salon is so relaxing and private with space for one client at a time, and I love getting my hair done with a view of the little garden area outside. Great hair, great company, and a haircut experience that feels more like a self-care ritual than just checking a box on my to-do list.

Lynda Chaikin Audrey is a wonderful hairstylist and is great with hair coloring! She is so gracious and thoughtful when I’m there, offering beverages, snacks, and a luxurious scalp massage with the conditioner. She allows plenty of time to do the cut or color right, honoring all my preferences. She’s my Best Ever Hairstylist!

Vivian Gallego Audrey has seen me grow and change over the last five years (so has my hair)! I’ve always been happy after my haircuts because she listens to what her clients want. In addition to her expertise, she’s kind and easy to talk to! Over the years my hair has transitioned from a short bob to long shag and back to a mid-length long layered cut (picture). If you’re looking for a layered haircut or something with curtain bangs, she will work her magic.

emckenna emckenna Audrey is an amazing stylist and does an exceptional job of bringing my hair vision to life! I love working collaboratively with her to find a style that works best for me. She listens to what I want and then delivers a haircut that is better than I could have possibly imagined! Audrey had so much attention to detail and puts so much thought and craft into even a bang trim. She provides a super warm and friendly yet relaxed salon experience. 10/10 recommend to anyone wanting a rockin haircut!!

Brenda Delgado I cant recommend Audrey enough! She is absolutely amazing and always goes above and beyond to ensure Im completely happy with my hair. From the moment I walk in, I know Im in great hands. She listens to exactly what I want and offers her expert advice, making sure my haircut and style are perfect every time. shes super friendly and makes every visit a fun and relaxing experience. I always leave feeling like a million bucks! If youre looking for someone who understands what you want and delivers top-notch service every time, I highly recommend Audrey! You won’t be disappointed!

Carla King Audrey has been my go-to stylist for several years. She always listens carefully to what I want and offers valuable feedback on both cut and color. I have wavy hair that has a mind of its own, but Audrey works her magic by layering it into a lightly shaggy style that looks fantastic no matter what I do. And thats saying something, considering my hair endures everything from paddleboarding and motorcycle or bicycle helmets to ponytails, braids, and the occasional dry shampoo day. Her salon is cozy, bright, and welcoming, and Audrey is such a pleasure to chat with. Ive recommended her to several friends, and they all love her too!

Christine Smith Thayse is a truly remarkable hair stylist. She cares very deeply about creating an experience for her customers that far exceeds expectations. The second I walk in the doors I’m always greeted like an old friend, with warm smiles and genuine inquisitions into how I am, how work is- etc. There is so much warmth and love in this salon between Thayse and her customers and between her and her coworkers. So, I have pretty unruly curly hair, and it’s extremely difficult to find a hair stylist I trust to make me not look ridiculous. I researched for days and called every studio in Santa Cruz before I went to Thayse, and I’m so glad I did! She has helped me keep my hair looking healthy, she’s helped me change color for the first time ever, and she helped me take a huge leap and cut 7/8 inches off my hair! I absolutely adore this salon and would recommend her to ANY friend with or without curly hair ❤️

2 Drumgranny (Mischa) Yvonne has cut my hair for more than twenty years and every time I leave her shop my hair looks even better than it did last time. I have very fine-textured, very curly hair that is extremely difficult to cut and style, yet Yvonne not only understands the specific nature of my hair, but she is constantly coming up with innovative ways of cutting and styling it that enhance whatever naturally attractive qualities it has. I would not dream of ever going to another stylist.

Susan Preble I’ve been having my hair done here for years. They are the BEST! Thayse works with me on my style cut and color. I am more then happy with the results and the constant quality of her work. If you want great looking hair and a great experience go see Thayse at Y Studioand Santa Cruz

Jennifer Fortin Because of Alcinda I have learned to fall in love with my hair. Ive had her do cuts, coloring, smoothing treatments and blow-outs and my hair always looks amazing when I leave. I highly recommend her!

Vanessa Holanda I Have been had my curls fix by Thayse for 5 years, and what I can say thats shes MY HAIR DRESSER. Trust her 100 percent. I have a curly complicated hair, and she knows what she does. I totally recommend Thayse for all types of hair as well.

Anca R I love Elegant Hairstyle. I drive from Redwood City to get my hair done with Leticia. My hair is very dry and thin, she knows how to handle it and uses only high quality products without harmful or harsh chemichals. Shes so patient and takes her time, shes a master with colors. The violets shes pulled off are so rich Ive gotten compliments on my hair all the way in Nicaragua asking me what color Ive used and what treatment. I couldnt use anyone else. Leticia is worth each and every penny and mile to get to her. I highly recommend.

Daniel Nieto I’ve been coming here for over 5years always good service and great haircuts! Leticia is the best!

Victor Mercado I have straight, thick hair and its hard for me to find a hairstylist that can cut my hair well. I am so glad that I was able to find Elegant Hairstyle. Leti is VERY talented beyond words can describe! She provides superb costumer service and will make you feel comfortable and welcomed to her salon. I would definitely recommend this salon to all my friends and will continue to visit Leti!

Intelligent Tiger Leticia is an excellent stylist. Good colorist, listens, and is pleasant & efficient. Her salon is not fancy, but it’s very clean & she takes very good sanitation precautions. I would recommend her!

Pablo VanWoerkom Excellent customer service and great hair cuts.

Megan Carroll I have been going to Machelle for years- she is great! Her cuts always turn out beautiful , she is the nicest person and her prices are affordable. It is always relaxing and fun having her cut my hair and would 10/10 recommend!

Brian OConnor Ive been a customer of Machelle since I moved to Santa Cruz almost 4 years ago. I was extremely happy to see her open her own place and have been going to her salon ever since. In addition to always giving me an awesome haircut she is a genuinely nice person and wonderful to catch up with every month. My straightforward guys cut always looks great, she takes the time she needs to get it right. And its a great deal around $25. Her place is small but she takes appointments and always runs on time. Ive never had to wait for my appointment and Im in and out within 30 minutes. The place is located at a fairly busy corner but the parking lot always has space and is easy to get into. I cant recommend her enough to my friends!!

Christine Nordquist Machelle is a very tallented hair stylist. I followed her from her other shop. She listens and understands exactly what I want done with my hair!

Mary Peterson Loved my haircut. Machelle is talented and takes time to listen and work with you on the results you would like done. Will be going back. She is nice down to earth and professional.

falula bean Machelle did a fabulous cut and color for me, Im now a regular at Hair Haven. Her shop is cozy and Machelle is a hoot, I enjoyed my time there.

Eliana Cowan Michaela is truly a curl mastermind! She took my hair from lifeless to bouncy happy curls in just one session together. Ive learned so much about how to care for my hair better from her. She takes her time, listens carefully, and creates absolute magic. Thank you, Michaela!

Katy Anderson Priscilla is amazing. She is a wealth of knowledge for scalp and hair health and helps you based on your specific level of how much you can give to your hair time, energy, money etc. The studio was good vibes and inclusive. It was surprisingly low scent and she also had unscented shampoo. I am very picky about my haircuts and I had ZERO complaints. I’m so grateful I found Priscilla.

Cassandra Cleave I cant recommend Michaela enough!! I went in with a vague idea of what I wanted, but upon seeing me, she had recommendations based on my face shape, etc. and I absolutely love what she did. She also was super educational on how to style my hair and tend to my scalp, in very managable ways. My far my favorite hair stylist to date.

Timm Priess Had such an amazing time. Michaela is wonderful! She is knowledgeable, kind, fun, and really takes her time to curate things to your needs. If you have curly hair and are in need of a some direction reach out and make an appointment with Michaela. Cant wait to go back.

Susan Fellows Dani gave me the best haircut and highlights—I am sooo happy to have found her in 95062!! I asked for a style change based on some pics I showed her and a cut that could be wash and wear. I left her comfortable and cool one person salon feeling super cute, and in the week since, I’ve washed my hair twice and love the way it looks (no blow drying!). So often I’ve left a salon liking my hair but then realized it was really the 30 minutes of professional styling that had my hair look good versus having a great cut. Dani also used her expertise in color theory to change the tone of my highlights and now my eyes feel like they pop again!

Marcus_Findeisen Dont waste your time looking elsewhere for the perfect haircut. Danielle listens well, is incredibly detail oriented, and will learn and adapt well to how your hair grows overtime. As a man, its incredibly challenging to find a hair stylist I can count on, but I can wholeheartedly say I found that with Danielle. She is reliable, thorough and will always give you an awesome haircut. Get one haircut from her, and you wont regret it.

Shannon Marie I got really lucky when I found Danielle. She is VERY talented. She is a genuine and kind person. She is a perfectionist with color and cut. I love that she is always on time and is very prompt with communication. One day she surprised me with a charcuterie board and a nice beverage. I felt like I was a queen. That is the type of person she is. She goes above and beyond and wants you to have a positive experience. Again, Im so lucky I found Danielle, if only I could take her everywhere I move :)

Astrid Juarez After relocating to the area and going through a few stylists/colorists, and not being happy with the results - I’ve been thrilled to find Danielle! She does an excellent job on my highlights and covering grey. I love how she does my hair! She delivers exactly what I want and offers tips to make it look even better. Highly recommend her!

Breena Thornton Danielle has given me 3 excellent haircuts so far. Each one has given me more style and confidence. I have fine curly hair and she knows how to make a flattering and easy to care for style. Her salon is really nice and comfortable. Danielle is great.

Sena Porter Scott Jenna is god-tiered. She raises her craft to fine art.

Kelsey Evans Detwiler Absolutely life-changing! If you have wavy or curly hair (cant speak to the rest of you, but Im sure its still amazing), you owe it to yourself to see Jenna. My hair is so much happier and curlier with Jennas cuts, curl tips, and product recommendations. I wouldnt believe the difference if I hadnt experienced it myself. Shes also fun to talk to, attentive to what I want, and has a beautiful and COVID-safe studio! Pink hair is before Jenna, the other photo is after seeing her regularly!

Nora Bianchi Jenna is a hair whisperer. I am unsure how to pay tribute to the first stylist in the whole of my 60 years who has truly understood my long and curly hair. I left my first Deva appointment with her two weeks ago (not even knowing I needed a Deva cut), and within hours I was getting rave reviews, literally from strangers approaching me to ask where I have my hair done. Honestly, it feels fantastic to have great hair! So worth it.

Rebecca-Linh Rodgers Becca Helme is amazing. Shes been doing my hair for a few years and Ive gone from long to short/light to dark (depending on the season) and she always understands my requests and consistently continues to impress me every time I leave her chair. I highly recommend her services!

gail whaley I recently moved to the area and had my hair done here by Sammi Lorraine. She did a great job understanding what I wanted. Very pleased! And Salon is super cute

Tessa L I have had wonderful color & cut experiences with April! Looking forward to my next apt with her.

elizabeth zerbe Becca made my hair so gorgeous with the balayage technique, and it looks so natural and summery! Plus, she was super pleasant company!