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Waterfront vacation rentals in Santa Cruz County

Find and book unique waterfront rentals on Airbnb

Top-rated waterfront rentals in Santa Cruz County

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

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Top 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, 171 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
A spacious deck is showcased with comfortable seating arrangements, complemented by a dining table. Lush greenery in planters is visible, along with panoramic ocean views under a clear blue sky. A cozy rug anchors the seating area, inviting relaxation.
Home in Aptos
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 173 reviews

Relax + Unwind in Brand New 2BD Modern Bch Retreat

Sea breezes and unobstructed 180-degree ocean views greet you from the private deck of RdM Lookout, a brand-new beach property with a bright open, mid-century modern beach design complete with a cozy fireplace hardwood floors, and quartz counters. A comfortable, chic space, guests tell us they love the amazing beds, soft linens, fluffy towels, and our gourmet kitchen with a stocked coffee bar with to-go cups for long beach walks. Come home to a relaxing, beach vacation in a charming beach town.

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
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 493 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.

Top guest favorite
A serene river flows gently through a lush forest, surrounded by vibrant green foliage. Smooth rocks emerge from the water, which reflects the surrounding greenery. The scene conveys a peaceful natural environment, ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Guest suite in Boulder Creek
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 1139 reviews

Redwood Riverfront Getaway

We are nestled in the beautiful California Redwood forest next to the San Lorenzo River. Guests can enjoy our private guest suite with its own entrance and full bathroom. Our property features tall trees, seasonal river swimming on our private beach, fishing, kayaking, and exploring. We are close to downtown Boulder Creek, minutes away from Santa Cruz, wine tasting, hiking, fine dining, and the coastline. We have no hidden fees and even offer a full return of our cleaning fee. Permit #181307

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 Pajaro Dunes
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 196 reviews

Copper Nest beach retreat with stunning views

The Copper Nest is an ideal getaway located steps from the beach in the gated community of Pajaro Dunes where the Pajaro River meets the Pacific Ocean. This newly designed three bedroom home is customized to create a serene beach retreat for you and your guests. This newly designed three bedroom home has a well equipped kitchen and outdoor seating, game, and BBQ areas. There are stunning ocean and agricultural views from every room. Close to California's popular food and travel regions.

Top 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
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 204 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
Cabin in Boulder Creek
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 106 reviews

Either Way Hideaway

Relax and enjoy riverside views in our tranquil Santa Cruz Mountains guesthouse. Cozy by our fire pits, take a dip in a private hot tub and enjoy the sounds of the river flow by. Hike Big Basin, Castle Rock and Henry Cowell State Parks. Close to historic downtown Boulder Creek and the Santa Cruz boardwalk, it’s the perfect base for exploring Santa Cruz county. Immerse yourself in of nature while staying connected and comfortable. Either way, you’ll enjoy your stay! SCC Permit #251382

Top guest favorite
A balcony features two chairs and a small table, overlooking a bright blue pool and the ocean beyond. Sunlight illuminates the space, enhancing the view of the nearby beach and the landscape of the surrounding resort.
Townhouse in Aptos
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 390 reviews

2bed OceanFront condo w/Pools+HotTub

Enjoy the comforts of a beach condo with the features of a luxury resort style retreat. This 2 bedroom 2.5 bathroom Villa has two balconies with incredible Ocean Views. Modern kitchen, and beach themed decor make this condo a vacation retreat you cannot miss. Plus 3 pools, heated year round! Located on 17-miles of secluded beachfront in Aptos California, south of Santa Cruz. Treat yourself to exquisite fine dining at the Sanderlings Restaurant, beach pathways and more!

Top guest favorite
Home in Aptos
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 263 reviews

Charming Beachfront Cottage

Oceanfront Beach House with views from every room! Steps from the beach. Gorgeous sunsets on the spacious deck with views of Santa Cruz coastline. Close to wine tasting, vineyards and breweries. Prime location, Rio-del-Mar beach, walking distance to coffee shop, restaurants, store and State Park. Perfect for a Romantic get away or family vacation! No more than 6 guests. Includes Outdoor shower, Boogie boards (2), sand toys, Beach chairs Beach towels, Wetsuit

Superhost
A modern living area features soft grey furniture arranged around a gas fireplace. A dining table with plush chairs sits nearby, reflecting natural light from the sliding glass doors leading to a patio. Decorative elements include a round mirror and coastal artwork.
Apartment in Aptos
4.78 out of 5 average rating, 427 reviews

*Official Resort Listing* Partial View 2 BDR Villa

This listing offers an updated residential-style experience within a luxury resort—the best of both worlds! Featuring a primary bedroom with a king bed and en suite bathroom, a 2nd bedroom with a queen bed, and a separate guest bathroom. Enjoy the comfort of a living room with a gas fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, and sofa seating. Each villa includes a private patio or balcony with a partial ocean view. Units are individually owned—decor and layout may vary.

Top guest favorite
The coastline extends along the horizon, where the ocean meets a colorful sunset. Tall trees frame the scene, while layered greenery sets a natural border, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The Seascape logo is prominently displayed, indicating the luxury rental identity.
Condo in Aptos
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 153 reviews

Spectacular Ocean View- Heated Pool & Spa Seascape

Relax at this beautiful, peaceful place to stay with an amazing ocean view! This 1 bedroom condo at Seascape Resort is the perfect getaway if you're looking to go to the beach, check out amazing restaurants, enjoy the boardwalk, or hit up nearby beach towns shops. This condo has been updated and is prepared spotless each time. Seascape Resort is located nicely at the center of Monterey Bay making it easy to visit Santa Cruz, Capitola, Monterey, Carmel and more!

Guest favorite
An aerial view captures the shoreline where waves meet the sandy beach. The coastline curves gently while a road runs parallel, with houses visible along the street. The vibrant colors of the ocean and sand contrast against the greenery nearby.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 530 reviews

180°OceanView+HotTub+EBikes+Surfboards+SUPS+Kayak

Incredible beach home with sweeping views of the ocean. Watch the waves crash from your bed. Directly in front of Pleasure Point, a world class surf spot. 180° upstairs decks to lounge & enjoy the ocean and views of the ocean from every room in the home. Hot tub, cedar sauna, 4 electric bikes, surfboards, stand-up paddle boards, sea kayak, ping pong table, basketball arcade game, and dart board. permit#191362

Popular amenities for Santa Cruz County waterfront rentals

KitchenWifiPoolFree parking on premisesAir conditioning

Waterfront apartment rentals

Top 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
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 478 reviews

180°OceanviewCondo-Surfboards-Bikes

Top guest favorite
A bright living area features large windows offering views of the ocean and beach. Comfortable seating includes a spacious sofa and two armchairs. A small coffee table sits on a light-colored rug, accompanied by a decorative fireplace. Natural light fills the room, enhancing the coastal ambiance.
Apartment in Aptos
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 130 reviews

Seascape Beach Resort condo with ocean view

Guest favorite
An aerial view captures the picturesque landscape of Seascape Beach Resort along the coastline. The soft sandy beach meets the ocean waves, while the resort buildings are nestled amidst greenery, enhancing the serene environment. Elevated perspectives of nearby residential areas and the horizon further complement this scenic setting.
Apartment in Aptos
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 106 reviews

Luxury Villa - Flora View - Ground Level -Seascape

Guest favorite
A vibrant pink building features distinctive blue accents and large windows, allowing ample natural light to fill the space. A small balcony with outdoor seating overlooks the sandy beach, while palm trees frame the scene. The Surf City Rentals logo is displayed at the bottom of the image.
Apartment in Capitola
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 38 reviews

Pink Venetian (Upper Unit)

Superhost
A spacious living area features a comfortable blue sectional sofa, offering views of the ocean through large glass doors. Nearby, a sliding door leads to an expanded deck, while the decor includes beach-themed elements, contributing to the coastal atmosphere.
Apartment in Pajaro Dunes
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 13 reviews

Beachfront Condo with Ocean Deck

Top guest favorite
A spacious sleeping area features a light blue color scheme and hardwood flooring. A large bed is adorned with soft bedding, complemented by bedside tables with lamps. A kitchenette is visible in the background, along with a closet area, adding functionality to the room.
Apartment in Capitola
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 472 reviews

30StepsToBeach-EBikes+Surfboards

Top guest favorite
Apartment in Capitola
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 41 reviews

OceanviewCondo-Steps to the Beach

Superhost
The exterior patio features vibrant pink chairs positioned along the beachfront. The sandy shore leads to the calm ocean, with a pier visible in the distance. Clear blue skies create a bright atmosphere, while the colorful walls of the building provide a cheerful setting.
Apartment in Capitola
4.57 out of 5 average rating, 49 reviews

Pink Venetian (lower unit)

Waterfront house rentals

Superhost
A shaded patio table is surrounded by five chairs, offering a direct view of the ocean. The shoreline is visible in the background, with gentle waves lapping against the sand. Vibrant greenery contrasts with the paved outdoor space.
Home in Aptos
4.81 out of 5 average rating, 115 reviews

Seaside Sanctuary

Guest favorite
A contemporary two-story luxury home is displayed with a clean exterior and bright white siding. Large windows provide natural light, while a spacious balcony is visible above the attached three-car garage. The surroundings feature well-maintained landscaping and a smooth driveway.
Home in Capitola
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 145 reviews

Brand New Luxury Home - Steps from Capitola Beach!

Guest favorite
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, 139 reviews

Beachfront Oceanfront Steps to Sand & Sunset Views

Guest favorite
The elegant exterior of a historic Victorian cottage features yellow siding and decorative white trim. A wooden staircase leads to a welcoming entrance, flanked by large windows. Lush greenery and colorful plants surround the front yard, enhancing the inviting nature of the property.
Home in Boulder Creek
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 179 reviews

Victorian Cottage in the Redwoods

Superhost
A cozy living area features a light-colored sofa adorned with textured pillows. A wooden coffee table sits in the center, complemented by decorative plants. Natural light streams through two windows, casting gentle shadows on the floor, while a modern television is mounted on the wall.
Home in Upper Seabright
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 67 reviews

Beachy 2BR by the Boardwalk

Top guest favorite
The exterior of a historic mountain house features a blend of wood siding and stone accents, surrounded by lush greenery and towering redwood trees. A welcoming porch lined with wooden railings offers a shaded area, while a winding pathway leads to the entrance, inviting exploration.
Home in Brookdale
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 77 reviews

Storybook Creekside Getaway

Guest favorite
A private garden is visible, featuring a manicured lawn and a variety of colorful plants and flowers. A round patio table is surrounded by four black chairs. The scene is framed by tall trees and offers a view of a serene body of water beyond.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 53 reviews

Beach House with Stunning Lake and Ocean Views

Superhost
Home in Brookdale
4.8 out of 5 average rating, 5 reviews

Peaceful Cabin | Redwoods, Creek + Outdoor Space

Waterfront condo rentals

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, 362 reviews

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

Guest favorite
Condo in Watsonville
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 490 reviews

Your Coastal Sanctuary - Far from the Craziness

Top guest favorite
A sunny balcony is seen with two chairs and a small table, surrounded by decorative plants. The ocean can be viewed in the background, with clear skies and sunlight reflecting on the water. A vibrant rug covers the balcony floor.
Condo in Aptos
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 123 reviews

Oceanview Villa w/ 2 Decks, ONE Pool & Fireplace

Guest favorite
Condo in Pajaro Dunes
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 101 reviews

Beachfront Condo in Watsonville California

Guest favorite
A private balcony is depicted, featuring two comfortable chairs set around a small table. The scene includes a view of the ocean in the distance, framed by lush landscape, while a pool area is visible below, creating a serene vacation ambiance.
Condo in Aptos
4.81 out of 5 average rating, 210 reviews

Seascape Ocean View Condo

Guest favorite
A scenic view captures the tranquil coastline, where soft waves meet the sandy beach. Lush greenery frames the foreground, enhancing the natural beauty leading to the ocean. The distant resort building is visible, complementing the serene landscape under a partly cloudy sky.
Condo in Aptos
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 147 reviews

Royal Villa - Ocean View - End Unit

Superhost
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 Pajaro Dunes
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 252 reviews

One of a kind full River and Ocean view!

Top guest favorite
The image depicts a serene beach scene at sunset, with gentle waves lapping at the shore. Grassy dunes adorned with tall, golden grasses frame the coastline, enhancing the natural beauty of the tranquil ocean that stretches towards the horizon.
Condo in Aptos
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 138 reviews

Seascape Resort Villa Beautiful Ocean View Sleep 6

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