Vacation rentals in Santa Cruz Mountains

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 452 reviews

A large tree provides shade in the foreground, while a horse riding arena is visible in the background. The arena is surrounded by a fence, and lush greenery dominates the scene, with distant trees and a hint of fog in the valley below.

Cabin in Los Gatos

The Coach House

The Coach House is located on our mountain top horse and lavender farm. We offer youth summer camps so are set up for fun outdoor adventures and activities. Have fun with our horses, goats, and chickens! You can take a 10 min walk over to Nonno's Restaurant for wine/pizza/BBQ and bacchi ball, or take an 8 min drive into Los Gatos, or 15 min to Santa Cruz for the beach and some of the best restaurants and spas around!. Good for couples, solo adventurers, business travelers, kids, & behaved dogs!

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 923 reviews

A clean bathroom sink area features a polished chrome faucet and decorative soap dispenser. A basket is filled with white towels, and an ornate round mirror hangs above the sink, adding a touch of elegance to the space.

Cabin in Los Gatos

Private Guest-House in the Redwoods

Our custom built guesthouse was completed in 2016. It is situated on 5 redwood-covered acres, 10 minutes south of Los Gatos and 20 minutes from Santa Cruz. We have easy access to hiking and biking trails, world-class wine-tasting, microbreweries, shops, amazing dining, and more! There is something for everyone in our area! We are surrounded by a 35 acre tree farm, so it's very private, yet close to the silicon valley! Our property has a standby generator so we are not affected by power outages.

5 out of 5 average rating, 139 reviews

A private outdoor patio area features a small table with two chairs, surrounded by wooden fencing and potted flowers. A pathway of stones runs alongside, leading to a wooden gate that opens to the exterior.

Home in Felton

Peaceful Redwood Retreat in the heart of town

This beautifully renovated home is set in a peaceful location, just a short walk from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Roaring Camp Railroad, Felton Music Hall, the Farmers' Market, yoga studios, a local brewery, restaurants, wedding venues, and a natural foods market. Enjoy nearby hiking and biking trails, with Santa Cruz a 10-minute drive away and San Jose just 30 minutes. Ideally situated in the heart of town, this family-friendly retreat offers all the essentials for a relaxing vacation.

5 out of 5 average rating, 278 reviews

Cabin in Felton

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).

5 out of 5 average rating, 115 reviews

A charming outdoor seating area is presented with four wooden chairs arranged around a central fire pit. Soft lighting from string lights overhead illuminates the space, with potted plants placed strategically around the deck, creating a cozy ambiance amidst the surrounding greenery.

Cabin in Felton

Whiskey Creek: Roaring Camp+Redwoods+Dogs+UCSC

Whiskey Creek (Permit #231409) is the newest property brought to you by the folks who created Whiskey Hollow, featured in Condé Nast Traveler's "30 Cozy A-Frame Cabins for Cold-Weather Getaways" in 2023! This cozy cabin sits on 1/2 acre and includes: - covered spa - indoor wood burning stove - outdoor fire pit - two decks - A/C Felton Music Hall, Roaring Camp, Henry Cowell, world-class mountain biking and the beach are minutes away. Well-behaved dogs (up to 2) are welcome. You'll love it!

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 215 reviews

An outdoor patio space is presented, featuring a small round table accompanied by two chairs. String lights are hung above, and a separate entrance door is visible. The gray wall contrasts with the red brick, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Guest suite in San Jose

Entire Guest Suite Private Entrance Kitchen & Bath

Whether you’re here for a business trip, traveling for pleasure, visiting your friends/relatives, or looking for a short term rental, our fully furnished unit can offer everything you need! What you’ll get from staying at our converted garage: * Separate entrance with self check-in (keyless entry) * Workspace with high-speed wifi * TV with Netflix * Fully stocked & equipped kitchen * Private bedroom with queen bed, wall closet, high ceiling * Private bathroom * Free parking on premise

4.85 out of 5 average rating, 119 reviews

Cabin in Los Gatos

Tranquil creek mountain house

The main house is 1 bedroom, 1 full bathrooms upstairs with vaulted ceilings throughout, stainless steel appliances, custom cabinets, hardwood floors, stained glass accent windows, and numerous skylights throughout. A tranquil creek runs through the property adding to the peaceful nature, a large wraparound redwood deck offers the perfect space to entertain. Make this inviting property your home and experience the perfect work life balance! Let your heart sing with the nature.

4.84 out of 5 average rating, 404 reviews

A serene sleeping loft features large windows that invite natural light and showcase the surrounding nature. A queen-sized bed is dressed in fresh linens, while wooden beams and branches accentuate the rustic design of the space.

Treehouse in Los Gatos

Magical Tree House

Nestled in a cathedral of Old Growth Redwoods on 72 acres of the Santa Cruz Mountains, this Treehouse is one of a kind, for the quiet, nature loving adventurers . Lofty ceilings and solar string lights. oak spiral staircase leads you to your "nest", a queen sized bed with fresh linens and pillows provided. Down stairs is a tiny porch with bistro dining set for sipping wine from a local winery as you gaze out at the moonlit pond and meadow, the dappled light in the trees.

4.86 out of 5 average rating, 240 reviews

A sandy beach is bordered by gentle waves lapping at the shore. Rocky cliffs rise alongside, with patches of green plant life in the foreground. Soft hues of pink and orange fill the sky as the sun sets in the background, casting a tranquil atmosphere.

Guesthouse in Felton

Studio with redwoods in backyard, infrared sauna

Deer Run sanctuary nestled in the redwoods, with bubbling brook nearby. private and secluded yet walking distance to felton's town center restaurants and shoppings. Five minute walk to Henry Cowell State Park and a short 6 mile drive to Santa Cruz's beaches and downtown. The studio has a private entrance, kitchenette, bathroom and gas fireplace. Deck surrounded by redwoods, with outdoor grill, is partitioned for privacy. Studio is good for couples and solo travelers.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 973 reviews

An outdoor area features a serene pool surrounded by blooming flowers and lush greenery. The distant horizon showcases a sparkling view of the city lights below, under a clear evening sky transitioning from dusk to night.

Guesthouse in Los Gatos

Cabana in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve

Nestled in the Sierra Azul Mountain Range in Los Gatos, we enjoy AMAZING unobstructed views of the Entire Silicon Valley... San Francisco to Gilroy from 1700ft altitude! This private retreat is perfect for relaxing and rejuvenating, surrounded by forest, streams and wildlife! Relax in complete solitude, refresh with chemical-free, great tasting spring water and crisp clean air high above the smog of Silicon Valley! Great Hiking/Biking Trails at your backdoor!

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 264 reviews

Tall redwood trees reach towards the sky, their towering trunks showcasing rich brown bark and thick green foliage. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting dappled light on the forest floor, creating a serene and inviting natural environment.

Farm stay in Felton

Romantic Suite on farm, walk to Henry Cowell Park

Romantic suite with king size bed, fireplace, huge bathtub, coffee maker, (frig, freezer, microwave, (no kitchen), high speed WIFI, Smart TV, movie library, seating and coffee table. Private patio area, fire pit, (BYO wood) patio furniture and dining table. The suite is completely private with its own private entry and DOES NOT have access to the rest of the house. 2 Person Occupancy only. This is a legal vacation rental. Permit #221352

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 787 reviews

The interior of the yurt features a spacious sleeping area with a queen size bed, adorned with layered bedding and decorative throws. Large windows allow natural light to fill the space, complemented by a circular skylight above. Indoor plants are arranged thoughtfully, enhancing the tranquil environment.

Yurt in Watsonville

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.

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Other great vacation rentals in Santa Cruz Mountains

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 90 reviews

A well-equipped kitchen is showcased with a double sink under a window that invites natural light. White cabinetry and wooden countertops create a warm atmosphere. Shelving displays glassware, and a coffee machine is placed beside a vibrant houseplant for a touch of greenery.

Cabin in Santa Cruz

Robin’s Nest in the Redwoods

LaurenneRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago

Robin’s Nest was such a beautiful getaway! Settled in the peaceful redwood forest above Santa Cruz (I rode my bike into town, which was fun!), it was a great place to escape the bustle, but close enough to enjoy some of the city’s amenities, food and culture. The bed was comfortable, kitchen was stocked, and the front deck/yard was such a lovely place for breakfast and morning coffee. I definitely plan on coming back when I need another escape!

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 26 reviews

A charming yellow house is nestled among tall redwood trees, showcasing a spacious deck that extends toward the hillside. The home features blue-trimmed windows, and natural greenery surrounds the property, enhancing the serene forest setting.

Home in Felton

Lovely Home in the Redwoods

RyanRating, 5 stars1 month ago

A lovely little cabin in the rustic Lompico hills just outside of Felton. The open floor plan makes the cabin feel very roomy, and the bright interior, together with lots of natural light, makes the place feel very cheery and welcoming. The property sits on a half-acre of gently sloping land ringed by redwoods, it's gorgeous and peaceful. Our dog loved roaming, sniffing around and playing fetch with the tennis balls left by the host. Getting there is quite easy, just follow the host's directions...the narrow mountain road might seem a little daunting at first, but we got the hang of it quickly. About 5 minutes down the road is the Zayante general store for necessities and Felton proper is about 10 minutes away. Loch Lomond is also about 10 minutes away. Lompico is a beautiful area with a cool history (look it up!) and the perfect place to unwind. Thanks for having us!

5 out of 5 average rating, 57 reviews

A modern kitchen features light wood cabinetry and a white countertop. A sink with a gold faucet is positioned under a large window, with utensils and a kettle neatly arranged nearby. Glass jars line a wooden shelf above the counter, adding to the organized look.

Guesthouse in Aptos

Casa de Rowan

KateRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago

This place is absolutely incredible! It’s located in the mountains but not too far from town, it feels so peaceful when you are at the property and especially at Louie’s lookout. We stayed there for a week for our honeymoon, it’s within driving distance to so many special spots. Chris was awesome as well.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 202 reviews

A cozy outdoor space is illuminated by warm string lights, creating a welcoming ambiance. A fire pit is surrounded by comfortable seating, and a small dining set is positioned nearby. The cabin stands nestled among towering trees, providing a serene forest setting.

Guest suite in Felton

Cozy Coastal Redwood Cabin

ClaireRating, 5 stars3 days ago

We had a wonderful stay in the cabin and were very comfortable. Tera and family were so sweet and helpful. Thank you for everything!

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 69 reviews

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

Santa Cruz A-Frame

YangRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago

The Santa Cruz A-frame was such a serene retreat into the mountains for us, and an antidote to our overly digital and urban lives. Things we appreciated: easy parking, both an upstairs and downstairs bathroom, full kitchen supplies, private balcony, gorgeous forest views, creek in the back, and easy access to Loch Lomond (peddle boating on the lake was so peaceful), the redwood state park (hiking in the largely shaded trail was great on an otherwise sunny day), and local groceries and food (enjoyed the cute outdoor patio in the back of The Grove cafe and bakery). We had a wonderful rest!

4.73 out of 5 average rating, 112 reviews

A cozy sleeping area within a geodesic dome features a spacious bed with neutral bedding. Large circular windows provide panoramic views of the surrounding greenery, while wooden furniture adds a natural touch. Soft light enhances the tranquil ambiance, inviting relaxation.

Dome in Watsonville

Apple view dome - stargazing galore!

HaroldRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago

This was a great getaway in a beautiful countryside. If you're looking for something somewhat off-the-grid, I would wholeheartedly recommend this memorable little dome. Waking up to see and hear all the birds in the morning was lovely.

5 out of 5 average rating, 13 reviews

A spacious back deck is set against a backdrop of towering redwood trees. Two lounge chairs are positioned for relaxation, accompanied by a small table with a potted plant. The warm wooden tones of the deck are complemented by natural forest surroundings.

Cabin in Bonny Doon

Eclectic Escape

MasonRating, 5 stars1 week ago

Staying at this cabin nestled in the heart of a redwood grove in the Santa Cruz mountains was truly magical. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this wasn't just a place to stay — it was a carefully curated experience. The host has thought of everything to make guests feel at home and beyond comfortable. The attention to detail was incredible: high-quality toiletries, a well-stocked pantry with essentials (and then some!), soft, luxurious bedding, and even thoughtfully placed candles that added a cozy, relaxing atmosphere. Every touch felt intentional and generous. What truly set this stay apart, though, was the host. Incredibly accommodating, kind, and flexible — they went out of their way to ensure every one of our needs was met with care and promptness. It’s rare to come across someone so committed to hospitality. Waking up surrounded by towering redwoods, with birdsong filtering through the trees, was unforgettable.