Some info has been automatically translated. Show original language

Vacation rentals in Santa Cruz

Find and book unique accommodations on Airbnb

Top-rated vacation rentals in Santa Cruz

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

%{current} / %{total}1 / 1
Top guest favorite
A spacious A-frame tent interior features a cozy queen bed with decorative bedding. Two bedside tables hold lamps, providing soft light. A wooden chest at the foot of the bed offers storage for extra blankets, while warm sunlight filters through the tent's fabric, creating a welcoming glow.
Treehouse in Felton
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 129 reviews

Redwood Ridge Tree Fort VRP#181501

A Magical Glamping Retreat – Escape to a dreamy tree fort nestled high among majestic redwoods, where rustic charm meets modern comfort. Fall asleep to the sounds of crickets and a bubbling creek, and wake up to peaceful birdsong and fresh mountain air. Relax in the hammock or gather around the fire pit while taking in stunning views. Enjoy hassle-free camping with all the comforts of home, including electricity, a cozy queen bed, a full bathroom with hot water, and a fully equipped kitchenette.

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

Guest favorite
The living area is adorned with warm wood paneling and features a cozy couch with colorful throw pillows. A glass coffee table sits in the center, while a television is positioned nearby. Natural light filters through the windows, highlighting the inviting atmosphere.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.78 out of 5 average rating, 644 reviews

Charming cottage in westside SC 2 blks from beach

Gingerbread-like cottage (600 square feet) was built from old growth redwood in 1922. Since remodeled with all the amenities. A private sanctuary, set back and hidden from street. Two block walk to ocean along tree-lined path in a quiet neighborhood on the west side. Serene and tranquil, lovely outdoor deck and garden. Half mile from selection of boutique wine tasting, breweries, and coffee roasters. We apologize for not being able to host children under 5 for safety reasons. 2 night minimum

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, 236 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 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, 120 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
The view captures the ocean and sandy beach from a spacious deck, framed by tall trees. Clear blue skies and calm waters are visible, while a dining area with wooden chairs is set up on the deck, inviting relaxation and enjoyment of the surroundings.
Home in Santa Cruz
5 out of 5 average rating, 141 reviews

Beach Front Dream House! Hottub/E-Bikes/Surfboards

Permit# 231467 Incredible modern home just steps from the best beach in all of Santa Cruz! Ocean and sand views, listen to the waves as you sleep on designer beds, cook in the chefs kitchen, and soak in the hot tub. Perfect central location, less than 5 minutes to boardwalk and downtown. 5 minutes to colorful Capitola village. 9 minutes to UC Santa Cruz Campus. 4 Electric bikes, 4 surfboards, and a kayak to take out and play in the waves! Plus the beach is right out front to enjoy!

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
The spacious living area is highlighted by a cozy sectional sofa, complemented by a coffee table. Large windows allow natural light to fill the room, with a mounted TV and a decorative fireplace visible. Elegant dining seating with a chandelier can be seen in the background.
Home in Santa Cruz
5 out of 5 average rating, 161 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 Upper Seabright
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 316 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 hot tub is positioned under a wooden gazebo, surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees. A colorful hanging chair is visible nearby, inviting relaxation. The outdoor space features a patterned area rug, and the sound of nature creates a tranquil ambiance.
Cabin in Soquel
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 163 reviews

Coastal Redwood Cabin | Hot tub | Private Creek

Welcome to our cozy cabin nestled in the serene beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains! Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of towering redwoods surrounding our charming studio-style cabin. Whether you're seeking a peaceful getaway or craving an adventure-filled retreat, our cabin offers the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement. Follow us @thecoastalredwoodcabin We welcome one small pet (dogs only) to join in on the fun!

Top guest favorite
The open-concept kitchen and living area feature a clean design with white cabinetry and a blue-tiled backsplash. A large window allows natural light to fill the space, illuminating the gray sofa and wooden coffee table. Four white bar stools are positioned at the kitchen island.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 187 reviews

Serene luxury beach bungalow in Pleasure Point

Just steps away from the breathtaking Santa Cruz coast lies Bungalow318. This 1940's bungalow has been meticulously renovated and is ready for your relaxing retreat, romantic getaway, surfing adventure or family vacation. Relax in the open concept family room, enjoy a day at the beach or surfing world-class surf breaks, lounge in the hot tub and spend a cozy evening on the patio lounge in front of a warm fire. The ways to enjoy this special property are endless!

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, 307 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).

Popular amenities for Santa Cruz vacation rentals

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.

Destinations to explore