Vacation rentals in Monterey Bay

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Monterey Bay

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Top guest favorite
A wide sandy beach stretches toward the horizon, illuminated by soft sunlight reflecting off the ocean. Gentle waves lap at the shore, where visitors can be seen enjoying the tranquil environment. Dune grasses frame the beach, adding to the natural scenery.
Vacation home in Watsonville
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 452 reviews

Magical & Romantic Beachfront Home at Pajaro Dunes

Beautiful oceanfront condominium with an unobstructed view to Monterey Bay & the Pacific Ocean; just 20 minutes south of Santa Cruz & 30 minutes north of Monterey/Carmel. Newly remodeled with granite counters, new kitchen appliances, paint, furniture, tile and carpeted floors. Electric fireplace adds to the magical ambience this home embraces. High ceilings, just steps to the beach. Convenient parking. 2 bedrooms & 2 full bathrooms, 1200 sf. A great place to kick off your shoes and relax.

Guest favorite
An A-Frame cabin is surrounded by lush greenery, positioned on elevated ground. A stone pathway leads to the entrance, flanked by wooden railings. The cabin features large glass panels on its façade, allowing natural light to flood the interior. A deck with seating overlooks the nature surroundings.
Cabin in Felton
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 118 reviews

Santa Cruz A-Frame

This unique A-Frame cabin, in a quiet mountain neighborhood with private creek access, was handbuilt in 1965 and remodeled in the summer of 2024. Now a little slice of heaven on the creek in the redwoods. *5-10 min to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Roaring Camp Railroad, Loch Lomond Recreation Area, the Trout Farm Inn, Quail Hollow Ranch + Felton stores. *20 min to Santa Cruz, beach + Boardwalk. *1 min to Zayante Creek Market (EV charger) Find us on social: Insta @SantaCruzAFrame

Top guest favorite
A private entrance is visible, leading into the unit. Lush greenery hangs over the door, while a wooden deck offers space for relaxation. Potted plants surround the area, and BBQ grills are positioned near the poolside, enhancing the outdoor ambiance.
Guest suite in Scotts Valley
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 797 reviews

Snug and Cozy between the Skyline and the Sea

Super private, peaceful, and quiet; an excellent place for the traveler who is excited about exploring the Santa Cruz mountains and coast. Completely private In-law unit with extras needed to make it cozy. Snuggled between Scotts Valley, Felton, and Santa Cruz it's near Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 1440 Multiversity, and Mount Hermon Conference Center yet less than an hour from Silicon Valley. The Airbnb cleaning handbook is followed making this one of the cleanest places you’ll stay at!

Top guest favorite
A cozy, dark green cabin is nestled among towering trees, showcasing a large window and a glass-paneled door. Three steps lead to the entrance, surrounded by a natural landscape of redwoods.
Guest suite in Felton
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 258 reviews

Cozy Coastal Redwood Cabin

Rest and connect in this warm, cozy, and private cabin that is nestled in the redwoods. Only minutes away from Henry Cowell State Park, where you can enjoy world class mountain biking trails, hiking, or swimming in the river. Or, enjoy the beach 15 minutes away. This is a perfect place to refresh in the magic of the Coastal Redwoods. Music fills most nights either from the Felton Music Hall or from the chorus of frogs. And wake up in the mornings to the mist in the trees when the fog rolls in.

Top guest favorite
A wooden pathway leads to a charming cabin, positioned among towering coastal redwoods. Lush greenery surrounds the area, with steps ascending to the entrance. The structure features large windows allowing natural light to illuminate the interior, creating a welcoming appearance.
Cabin in Carmel-by-the-Sea
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 338 reviews

Serene Redwood Retreat w/Modern Comfort

At our Modern cabin nestled among 150 year old redwoods, we invite you to embark on a unique adventure of embracing the outdoors while only minutes from town. Wine tasting in downtown Carmel, World Class Golf at Pebble Beach or Hiking trails of Point Lobos and Big Sur. "Magical", "Amazing", "A True Sanctuary" are just a few words used by our guest to describe their stay with us. Get away and unplug in the stillness and solitude of our Serene Redwood Retreat. Please see property description.

Top guest favorite
A spacious wooden deck is surrounded by lush forest views, featuring a round table with four metal chairs. Potted plants add greenery, while trees rise in the background, creating a serene outdoor space for relaxation.
Apartment in Carmel-by-the-Sea
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 967 reviews

Private romantic 1 br in Carmel Woods- love dogs

Dog friendly! Private entrance to 2 rm studio overlooking the forest w/ floor to ceiling windows. Queen memory-foam bed, bathroom w/shower & amenities, kitchenette w/ dishes, microwave/convection oven, burner, toaster, coffee.Far ocean view, sunsets, deck, gas grill. wood burning fireplace, complimentary wood, free internet, TV, DVDs, LPS, All amenities. Beach towels/mats, ottoman/cot, free parking. note: ceilings are low in spots & there are some steps. Let us know about dogs when booking.

Top guest favorite
The cottage is set against a backdrop of the ocean, featuring a terracotta roof and white walls. Palm trees frame the entrance, while vibrant flowers adorn the pathway leading to the door. The expansive view of the water is visible beyond the landscaped garden.
Guesthouse in Aptos
4.8 out of 5 average rating, 796 reviews

The Cottage Getaway by the Sea

The Cottage Getaway by the Sea is a single level one bedroom stand alone cottage on a cliff over Rio Del Mar Beach w/ 180 degree WOW views of the Monterey Bay. Seasonally enjoy dolphins, whales, & great sunsets! Located in a peaceful neighborhood, this is a perfect place for a quiet romantic getaway or just to read, relax, & enjoy. We are one of the few airbnbs with a California King Bed! Pricing is per night for one; 2nd person +$25 per nite PERMITTED vacation rental #181420

Guest favorite
The charming exterior of a cottage is highlighted by a light blue door. Two turquoise chairs and a small table are positioned on the patio, surrounded by neatly trimmed hedges. A dining table with four chairs sits on the concrete area, leading to a welcoming entrance.
Guesthouse in Seaside
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 1,114 reviews

Cozy Seaside Cottage

Cozy Seaside cottage conveniently located in a friendly neighborhood in Seaside. Our slice by the sea is close to the beach, Monterey fairgrounds, Laguna Seca Raceway and more! Enjoy a quiet stay in Monterey bay with a private driveway and patio area as well as a full laundry room and fully stocked kitchen. New carpet and a recently renovated bathroom are an added plus! Walking distance to grocery stores, Walgreens, and local restaurants. Perfect retreat for a couple or just you!

Top guest favorite
A wooden deck is seen overlooking the ocean, furnished with a round table and four chairs under an umbrella. Potted plants with colorful flowers are arranged along the edges, adding natural beauty to the space. A bench is positioned on one side of the deck.
Home in Watsonville
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 723 reviews

Sunset Cottage Vacation rental permit #111394

Charming ocean front cottage with views from Santa Cruz to Monterey. Located in Sunset State Park near Capitola and Santa Cruz. Path to quiet beach for great walks and glimpses of dolphins. A perfect place for a getaway or romantic weekend. TWO people maximum on the property at any time. There is only parking for ONE car. Pets are not allowed. NO SMOKING on the property-inside or outside. Two night minimum. Certified vacation rental property with Santa Cruz County.

Guest favorite
A cozy bedroom features a spacious bed covered with a textured blanket. Light blue walls create a calm atmosphere, while artworks adorn the walls. Mirrored closet doors reflect the room's warmth, and two bedside lamps provide soft illumination near the bed.
Home in Seaside
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 482 reviews

Artist's Cottage on the Hill

An Artist's cozy cottage on the hill overlooking Monterey Bay. 1 Mile from the beach, minutes from Old Monterey, Fisherman's Wharf, Cannery Row, The Monterey Bay Aquarium. A short drive to Pebble Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Point Lobos, Big Sur, CSUMB, Laguna Seca. Enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee in the morning on the patio with a view of beautiful Monterey Bay, or a gorgeous sunset before heading out for an evening on the town in Old Monterey, or Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Guest favorite
A green yurt is nestled among tall trees, featuring a wooden deck with a set of two outdoor chairs and small tables. Colorful prayer flags drape from the yurt's awning, framing the entrance where double French doors invite guests inside.
Yurt in Watsonville
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 821 reviews

Mountain Top Yurt in the Redwoods

Peaceful, clean, spacious, beautifully decorated and quiet 24' Yurt completely surrounded by Redwoods on top of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Spend a couple days meditating, reading or writing the next chapter of your memoir. Walking distance to Mount Madonna Retreat Center (open now through reservation only). County Park hiking and horseback riding trails located within 3 miles. Ideal place for photography and mountain/road biking.

Top guest favorite
The bedroom features a spacious bed dressed in neutral linens and a decorative throw pillow. Two bedside tables with lamps frame the bed, while a rocking chair and a small plant create a calming corner. Natural light enters through two windows adorned with lace curtains.
Guest suite in Del Monte Forest
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 773 reviews

Pebble Beach Guest House

Pebble Beach guest house located in the quiet Del Monte Forest, a golf destination and gated community. 650 sq.ft. 1 bedroom with queen bed, living room, gas fireplace, WiFi, TV, kitchenette, private deck with fire pit and hot tub. 7 min walk to the ocean. 3 min drive to The Inn at Spanish Bay. 5 miles to the Pebble Beach Lodge. Portable crib available. No pets. No smoking on property.

Popular amenities for Monterey Bay vacation rentals

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where is Monterey Bay located?

    Monterey Bay is located along California’s central coast, bordered by coastal towns and scenic cliffs. The area is known for its rich marine life, sandy beaches, and diverse coastal habitats.

  • When is the best time to visit Monterey Bay?

    Late spring through early fall is frequently suggested, as these months bring milder weather with highs near 70°F (21°C), less rain, and clearer views. Winter months remain mild but tend to see more rainy days, creating a quieter coastal experience.

  • What are some things to do near Monterey Bay?

    You can explore the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, stroll Cannery Row, or visit the Pacific Grove shoreline. Outdoor activities often include coastal trails, whale-watching excursions, and sampling local food at nearby markets.

  • How is the weather near Monterey Bay?

    Monterey Bay has mild, coastal weather year-round. Expect cool winters around 41–62°F (5–17°C) with more rain, and comfortable summers near 55–73°F (13–23°C) with drier conditions and frequent morning fog.

Destinations to explore