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Vacation rentals in Santa Cruz

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Vacation rentals for every style

Get the amount of space that is right for you

Popular amenities for Santa Cruz vacation rentals

Beachfront
Self check-in
Gym
BBQ grill
Laptop-friendly workspace

Stay near Santa Cruz's top sights

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park743 locals recommend
Natural Bridges State Beach324 locals recommend
Wilder Ranch State Park276 locals recommend

Santa Cruz beach vacation rentals

Guest favorite
A deck area features a round table surrounded by four black wicker chairs, with a candle placed at the center. In the background, expansive ocean views and sandy beach are visible, along with nearby buildings that complement the coastal landscape.
Condo in Watsonville
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 234 reviews

One of a kind full River and Ocean view!

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, 442 reviews

Magical & Romantic Beachfront Home at Pajaro Dunes

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, 787 reviews

The Cottage Getaway by the Sea

Top guest favorite
A winding concrete path leads through a well-maintained green lawn bordered by flowering plants. Tall trees stand in the background, framing the entrance to the beach, where a glimpse of the ocean can be seen in the distance.
Condo in Aptos
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 100 reviews

Luxury Garden View - Relax and Unwind - Seascape

Guest favorite
The living area features a comfortable sofa and armchair, with accent pillows adding color. A light-colored coffee table sits on a neutral rug in front of a fireplace. Large windows allow natural light to fill the space, with a mirrored wall reflecting the cozy atmosphere.
Condo in Watsonville
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 466 reviews

Beachfront Tranquility

Guest favorite
A wide stretch of sandy beach is observed under a clear blue sky. Gentle waves lap at the shore, creating a serene atmosphere. In the distance, silhouettes of people can be seen walking along the water's edge, enhancing the peaceful coastal scene.
Condo in Watsonville
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 334 reviews

2B/2B Pajaro Dunes with Dunes and Ocean View

Guest favorite
A bright studio apartment features a large window framing a view of the beach and palm trees. A simple desk made of wood is positioned near the window, accompanied by a comfortable chair. The space is designed with light colors and a serene atmosphere.
Apartment in Capitola
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 417 reviews

180° Oceanview Condo-Surfboards-Bikes

Superhost
A vibrant landscape features blooming flowers in shades of pink and white in the foreground, while the serene ocean stretches into the distance. The scene is framed by tall trees, creating a harmonious blend of nature with the beach visible under a clear blue sky.
Condo in Aptos
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 186 reviews

Beach Front Villa at Seascape Resort

Santa Cruz house rentals

Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
4.84 out of 5 average rating, 290 reviews

Safe, Steps To Beach, Spa, Near Harbor, Pets Okay!

Top guest favorite
A serene beach scene captures gentle waves lapping against the shore. Several individuals stroll along the sand, and a peace symbol is artistically drawn into the wet surface. The landscape features grassy cliffs and a lighthouse in the distance under a calm blue sky.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 182 reviews

Beachy Keen Westside Bungalow

Superhost
A wooden gate with a decorative archway leads into the front yard, adorned with flowering cherry trees and lush greenery. The fence provides privacy, creating a welcoming entrance to the property.
Home in Upper Seabright
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 538 reviews

Tropical Seabright Beach and Boardwalk Getaway

Guest favorite
The open living space features a leather sofa and a wooden coffee table, with stairs leading to the upper level. Adjacent is a spacious outdoor patio area, showcasing a dining table, lounge chairs, and a barbecue grill, surrounded by greenery and natural light.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 241 reviews

Walk to everything! Surf Colony Modern Surf Shack

Superhost
A cozy living area features a navy sofa with decorative pillows, a wooden coffee table, and a dark dresser. Natural light enters through two windows adorned with simple window treatments. A framed floral artwork adds a touch of color, while a ladder provides access to the sleeping loft.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.79 out of 5 average rating, 1,056 reviews

Sunny Private Downtown Studio

Guest favorite
Home in Felton
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 209 reviews

Gorgeous Property, walk to Henry Cowell Park&Town

Top guest favorite
The exterior of a charming bungalow is framed by lush trees and a white picket fence. A small front porch features two chairs, inviting relaxation. Large windows allow natural light to illuminate the interior, enhancing the welcoming ambiance of the home.
Home in Upper Seabright
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 207 reviews

The "Sea Pearl" at Seabright Beach in Santa Cruz

Guest favorite
Home in Aptos
4.82 out of 5 average rating, 374 reviews

Aptos Beach Retreat • Hot Tub & 5 Min Walk to Sand

Beach house rentals in Santa Cruz

Guest favorite
A charming two-story wooden house features a welcoming front porch with a bench. Large windows allow natural light to fill the space, while a driveway leads to a garage. A well-maintained yard with a planter adds to the home's inviting exterior.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 61 reviews

Great Home! Great Beach! Great location!

Top guest favorite
The spacious living area features large windows that allow for ample natural light, highlighting the modern design. A cozy blue sofa is positioned near a fireplace, with a festive garland adorning the mantel. Views of the outdoors can be seen through the doors leading to the balcony.
Home in Watsonville
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 164 reviews

Copper Nest beach retreat with stunning views

Superhost
The image captures a peaceful coastal scene where gentle waves meet a sandy shoreline. A vibrant sunset casts warm orange and yellow hues across the sky, illuminating the water's surface as it reflects the fading light. The smooth blend of colors enhances the serene atmosphere.
Home in Watsonville
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 112 reviews

Beachfront Oceanfront Steps to Sand & Sunset Views

Guest favorite
A coastal view is presented, showing a lush, green landscape transitioning to sandy beach and ocean. The clear blue sky complements the vibrant ground cover, while the home is partially visible on the right, featuring a spiral staircase and deck overlooking the water.
Home in Pescadero
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 187 reviews

Oceanfront Views - Steps to the Beach

Top guest favorite
Two ocean-facing Adirondack chairs are placed on a wooden deck, providing a serene spot to enjoy the surrounding landscape. In the foreground, a natural trail leads through low vegetation towards the beach, while the distant ocean can be seen under a muted sky.
Home in Monterey
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 174 reviews

Monterey Bay Oasis on the Ocean!

Top guest favorite
Home in Aptos
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 238 reviews

Charming Beachfront Cottage

Guest favorite
A window seat with ample cushioning overlooks the serene Pacific Ocean. Large windows provide unobstructed views of the beach and dunes, with soft natural light illuminating the space. Neutral tones and cozy pillows contribute to a relaxed atmosphere.
Home in Castroville
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 203 reviews

Oceanfront Retreat w/Private HotTub

Top guest favorite
A cozy outdoor area is highlighted by a circular arrangement of Adirondack chairs surrounding a fire pit. The deck and adjoining building feature warm lights that create a welcoming ambiance as the sun sets in the background.
Home in Capitola
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 35 reviews

Riverview Retreat Duplex-Captiola LOWER UNIT A

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Santa Cruz

  • Total rentals

    1.4K properties

  • Total number of reviews

    125K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    830 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    380 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    100 properties have a pool

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    580 properties have a dedicated workspace

Your guide to Santa Cruz

All About Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is the quintessential California beach town, where the waves are big, the vibe is laid-back, and every third person has a surfboard hanging out of their jeep. Here you'll find a treasure trove of funky thrift shops side by side with locavore restaurants that source their ingredients from nearby farms. The infamous Santa Cruz Beach, just a stone's throw away from downtown, is known for its vintage boardwalk and surf culture (the modern wetsuit was invented here). Venture inland to the Santa Cruz Mountains and you'll be greeted by nearly 2,000-year-old redwood trees and a handful of California’s most forward-thinking wineries. And there's no shortage of unique rentals to call home for your stay, from leafy beach bungalows on Laurel Street to relaxing Spanish revival abodes lining Soquel Avenue and the Victorian homes of Beach Hill.

The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Santa Cruz

June through August are the warmest and driest months in Santa Cruz, coinciding with peak travel season. Something to keep in mind: A coastal California phenomenon known as June gloom means that fog is known to creep in during early summer, potentially impacting your beach-going plans. Late summer tends to be more reliable for sunny days, and fall is actually one of the best times of year for cloudless skies, pleasant weather, and fewer crowds; October still maintains high temperatures in the 70s Fahrenheit. January and February are the wettest and coldest months, with just over 6 inches of average rainfall and an average low of 42 degrees.

Top things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has attracted visitors for more than a century and is one of only two existing coastal amusement parks on the West Coast. This outdoor stretch boasts roller coasters, concession stands, and dozens of carnival games, all set against the backdrop of the dazzling ocean.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Save a day for a trip to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, four miles north of town. A 40-acre grove of sky-scraping old-growth redwood trees is the main draw, but the trails expand into other habitats including grassland, rivers, and sand hills. You can explore it via hiking trails, bike, or horseback.

Capitola

This cheery seaport village in Santa Cruz County is worth a visit for its unique Easter egg-colored cottages and seafood restaurants. Shops and galleries sell crafts and artwork by local artists, and the beach is perfectly positioned for a sunset stroll.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Santa Cruz?

    Santa Cruz experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and dry, warm summers. Average temperatures typically range from 70°F (21°C) in summer to 50°F (10°C) in winter.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Santa Cruz?

    In Santa Cruz, you can explore the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, enjoy a walk along West Cliff Drive, or visit the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum. Surfing enthusiasts may also enjoy the waves at Steamer Lane or Pleasure Point.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Santa Cruz?

    The most frequented time to visit Santa Cruz is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, many visitors come for the Wharf to Wharf Race in July, and the Santa Cruz Shakespeare Festival, which runs from July to September.

  • What are the best places to stay in Santa Cruz?

    Visitors to Santa Cruz often choose to stay in Downtown, West Cliff Drive, or Pleasure Point neighborhoods. Downtown is known for its vibrant culture, West Cliff Drive for its beautiful coastline, and Pleasure Point for its laid-back surf vibe.

  • What are the best places to visit in Santa Cruz?

    Santa Cruz has many popular places to visit, such as the Natural Bridges State Beach, the Santa Cruz Wharf, or the Mystery Spot. The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is also a great place to explore marine life.

  • What are some hiking trails in Santa Cruz?

    Santa Cruz has numerous trails for hiking enthusiasts. Some frequent choices are the Skyline to the Sea Trail, the Old Growth Loop at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and the trails at Wilder Ranch State Park.

  • What are some family activities to do in Santa Cruz?

    Families visiting Santa Cruz can enjoy a picnic at Mission Hill Plaza, explore marine life at the Santa Cruz Wharf, or take a scenic train ride through the redwoods with Roaring Camp Railroads. The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is also a hit with families.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Santa Cruz?

    For a day trip, consider exploring the natural beauty of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, or take a journey to the nearby city of San Jose. Another frequently suggested day trip is to the quaint town of Capitola, just a short drive away.

  • What types of vacation rentals are available in Santa Cruz?

    Uncover the perfect home-away-from-home with our diverse selection of vacation rentals in Santa Cruz. From over 780 house rentals to over 120 apartment rentals, we've got you covered.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Santa Cruz?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 610 vacation rentals in Santa Cruz featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

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