Places to stay near Santa Cruz Beach

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Santa Cruz Beach

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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
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 105 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 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
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 238 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
The A-frame cabin stands among tall Redwoods, featuring a striking red star above the entrance. Outdoor seating is provided in the form of a white chair on the deck, framed by lush greenery and scenic pathways.
Cabin in Felton
5 out of 5 average rating, 303 reviews

Whiskey Hollow A-Frame: As feat'd in Condé Nast!

Featured in Condé Nast's "30 Cozy A-Frame Cabins for Cold-Weather Getaways", Whiskey Hollow is a romantic retreat! View majestic Redwoods from the loft bed, luxuriate in the oversized bathtub by candlelight, cozy up in front of the wood fireplace, or cook a meal in the fully appointed kitchen. Nestled in the woods, you would never guess that it's only 2 miles to downtown Felton, 1.5 miles to Henry Cowell State Park, 15 min to downtown Santa Cruz, and 20 min to the beach (Permit #191282).

Top guest favorite
A private garden patio is featured, containing a round table with two chairs. Each chair is accompanied by a throw pillow. A small vase with flowers sits on the table, and colorful signage is visible on the fence in the background.
Place to stay in Santa Cruz
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 121 reviews

Melton Beach House. Private entry,space and patio.

Space is not suitable or safe for children under 5 years of age. Great location.We are conveniently a 10-15 minute walk to the Hook and Pleasure Point surf breaks.And in the other direction you have a 15 minute walk down to the adorably charming Capitola village and very lovely beach.There you'll find quaint boutique shops and many restaurants/bar choices along the beach esplanade. With in a 5 minute walk you'll find New Leaf market,Whole foods, Penny's ice cream,and 6 other restaurant's.

Guest favorite
A tranquil garden space features a wooden picnic table surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant orange trees. Various shrubs and plants create a secluded feel, while a stone border adds a natural element to the serene environment.
Guest suite in Santa Cruz
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 1,065 reviews

Birdsong Studio by Beach-Jasmine Gardens

Jasmine Garden Oasis Retreat House—3 block walk to quiet beaches. Ideal for individuals, couples, or families seeking serenity. SC Permit # 231326. Two upstairs independent guest studios inside our home, each with queen bed and extra beds for $25 charge: Jade Studio with private deck, and Birdsong Studio overlooking garden and hot tub. Meditation & QiGong instruction, bicycle rental nearby, allergy-free, healing sessions, low-EMFs--renewing for heart, body & soul. Sunrise/sunset at beach.

Top guest favorite
A spacious living area features comfortable seating with a light-toned sofa and two woven armchairs. A round coffee table sits at the center, and large windows adorned with bamboo shades allow natural light to fill the room, creating a serene atmosphere.
Home in Santa Cruz
5 out of 5 average rating, 162 reviews

Beach Hill Hideaway - Beach Boardwalk, steps away

Inviting beach house just 1.5 blocks from the Boardwalk, beach, wharf, restaurants and walking distance to downtown and the best surf spots. Full kitchen, dining & living area, office, deck with dining/patio seating and BBQ. Master suite with king bed & en suite bath. The 2nd & 3rd bedrooms feature queen beds with a shared full bath. Cozy family room has a big screen TV, games and the office has queen pull out sofa. Outdoor shower for cleaning off sand when you return from the beach.

Guest favorite
An artistic illustration showcases a house and a bathtub, suggesting a serene retreat. Soft, flowing colors represent water and nature, while the stylized tree adds an element of tranquility to the overall design.
Townhouse in Santa Cruz
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 319 reviews

Theory of Color: A Lazure Space

Welcome to your serene sensory retreat! Tucked away in a tranquil, private location, this charming space features vibrant walls painted with the Waldorf inspired Lazure technique and an outdoor bathtub, embraced by greenery. Unwind, recharge, and awaken to your senses. Built in 1928 and fully modernized, this stylish retreat is bright and inviting. Enjoy easy walks to the beach (0.7 mi), harbor (0.5 mi), boardwalk (1.1 mi), downtown (1.5 mi), Rio Theater (0.5 mi), and UCSC (3 mi).

Top guest favorite
A spacious bedroom features a queen bed with a quilted coverlet and decorative pillows. The room is lit by bedside lamps, with wooden accents and a plush armchair in the corner. A doorway leads to an updated bathroom, and natural light filters through the windows.
Guest suite in Santa Cruz
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 308 reviews

Vintage Charm Close to Downtown and Beaches

This beautifully & recently renovated studio with separate entry and private bathroom is in the middle of everything Santa Cruz has to offer: downtown, beaches, boardwalk, West Cliff Drive, bike paths, etc. are an easy walk or bike-ride. The studio is also a quiet area for remote work. We are pleased to host you and help make your experience great. You may also access the common-space gardens and hot tub in the spa-like back yard (upon request).

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, 812 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 spacious living area features a dark couch with light throw pillows, complemented by a wooden coffee table. Natural light filters through large windows, highlighting the blue walls and the staircase leading to the loft. A green area rug enhances the inviting atmosphere.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 522 reviews

Wave House by the Beach for Two!

PLEASE READ ALL DETAILS: Spacious house with a loft bedroom, bathroom with shower/bathtub, skylights, full kitchen, large living room and dining area. Lots of light. Two decks, yard, driveway and garage for parking. Only a 0.3 mile walk to the beach and boardwalk. A 0.4 mile walk to the wharf. And a 0.7 mile walk to downtown. Lots of outdoor activities in the area! Unfortunately the house is not suitable for children under 10.

Top guest favorite
The living area features a comfortable blue sectional sofa and an accent chair, complemented by decorative pillows. A mounted flat-screen TV is visible above a modern electric fireplace, while natural light fills the space through several windows. A charming clock and wall art enhance the room's welcoming atmosphere.
Cottage in Santa Cruz
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 479 reviews

Sea Otter Cottage in Santa Cruz!

This quaint cottage, just a block and a half from the beach, was built in the early 1900's yet lovingly updated to maintain Old World Charm. Take a short stroll to the beach, quaint restaurants, shopping or the harbor. Enjoy provided paddle boards, cruiser bikes & boogie boards or have a bonfire in the backyard before ending your day with a relaxing soak in the hot tub!

Top guest favorite
A wooden gate provides access to the outdoor area, framed by a tree. A yellow bicycle is parked beside the gate, adding a bright touch to the natural surroundings. The wooden sign above hints at a welcoming atmosphere.
Guest suite in Santa Cruz
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 430 reviews

Savasana Surfer's Retreat

A simple and cozy abode for couple's getaway, outdoor enthusiasts, or solo travelers. Tucked away in a residential cul-de-sac with easy access to the harbor and local beaches via 2 complimentary beach cruisers. Completed with a semi-outdoor restroom and hammock, the Savasana Studio is a great alternative for a relaxing and cost-effective way to stay in Santa Cruz!

Popular amenities for vacation rentals near Santa Cruz Beach

Quick stats about vacation rentals near Santa Cruz Beach

  • Total rentals

    180 properties

  • Nightly prices starting at

    G$10,455 GYD before taxes and fees

  • Total number of reviews

    16K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    90 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    30 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    60 properties have a dedicated workspace

Your guide to Santa Cruz Beach

All About Santa Cruz Beach

Known for its world-class surfing along the shores of the Pacific Ocean, Santa Cruz has 29 miles of coastline and soft sand beaches — each with its own unique vibe. The beautiful sandstone arches of Natural Bridges State Beach are the perfect place to picnic while watching migrating whales crest the glimmering waves of the Pacific Ocean. Lighthouse Field State Beach (also known as Its Beach) is an ideal spot to watch surfers catching the waves at Steamer Lane — or pop into the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum.

The Main Beach is by far the most popular in Santa Cruz, housing volleyball courts, beachfront dining, and the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The Boardwalk is California’s oldest amusement park, complete with hundreds of carnival games and a century-old wooden roller coaster. The sounds of sea lions barking on the rocks fill the air on the nearby wharf, where you can take a stroll down the longest wooden pier in the United States.

Just south of Santa Cruz, Capitola Beach’s rainbow of angular, vibrant houses makes the area feel like a serene Mediterranean villa.


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

Santa Cruz’s location on the Pacific Ocean means mild and temperate weather year-round. Though the temperatures dip a bit during the winter months, it’s still warm enough to walk the trails of Natural Bridges State Beach and admire the moving orange and black clouds of Monarch butterflies that migrate to the region from October through February. Summer brings the warmest weather, though it never gets too hot or humid, and this is when the city sees the most visitors. Bring layers, though, for the morning fog that settles in the area.

The first major event of the year in Santa Cruz is the Clam Chowder cook-off in February, where local chefs dressed in eccentric outfits compete to make the best chowder while attendees sample the goods. Car enthusiasts flock to the city in June when 200 wood-bodied vintage cars are showcased during the Woodies on the Wharf event. When the weather cools down come November, surfers from around the globe make their way to Steamer Lane to compete in one of the biggest surfing competitions in California.


Top things to do in Santa Cruz Beach

Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

Located in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse overlooking Steamer Lane, the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is a living record of the beach’s connection to the sport. The museum has exhibits that feature a century’s worth of pictures, videos, and surfing memorabilia, and you can learn about the early origins of surfing in ancient Hawaii up to modern-day developments.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Built in 1907, this beloved landmark contains two century-old rides that’ve been designated as national landmarks, one of which was featured in a popular ‘80s movie about vampires. With two arcades, a two-story mini-golf course, and free Friday night concerts on the beach, the boardwalk is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening at the beach.

Roaring Camp

Ride some of the oldest and best preserved narrow-gauge steam engine trains still in use at Roaring Camp, where locomotives snake under towering canopies of Redwood trees in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Roaring Camp’s 19th century locomotives travel through forest groves to the summit of Bear Mountain or through Henry Cowell State Park to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk while guides share insight into the history of the railroad and the surrounding area. Roaring Camp is located in Felton, a beautiful little woodsy town less than ten miles from Santa Cruz with great options for dining — and for sampling the brewing scene that’s put this region on the map with beer lovers.