Santa Cruz vacation rentals

Book unique homes, vacation rentals, and more on Airbnb

Top-rated vacation rentals in Santa Cruz

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

Guest favorite
Guest suite in Scotts Valley
Snug and Cozy between the Skyline and the Sea
Super private, peaceful, and quiet; an excellent place for the traveler who is excited about exploring the Santa Cruz mountains and coast. Completely private In-law unit with extras needed to make it cozy. Snuggled between Scotts Valley, Felton, and Santa Cruz it's near Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 1440 Multiversity, and Mount Hermon Conference Center yet less than an hour from Silicon Valley. The Airbnb cleaning handbook is followed making this one of the cleanest places you’ll stay at!
Sep 4 – 11
ﺩ.ﺇ242 per night
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 623 reviews
Guest favorite
Guest suite in Felton
Redwood Retreat
A peaceful creek-side studio in a redwood grove. Private entrance with a own bathroom & mini-kitchen. Unit is attached to the main house but it's very private and feels like a cabin Hang out in the cozy room, in the private glen by the creek or go explore Henry Cowell Redwoods state park, Felton restaurants & tourist train. 20 min drive to ocean & Santa Cruz. Wylder Ranch state Park is pretty close too. A good Hub for exploring Monterey, Big Sur. San Francisco is close enough for a day trip.
Dec 5 – 12
ﺩ.ﺇ388 per night
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 734 reviews
Guest favorite
Guest suite in Boulder Creek
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
Jan 24 – 31
ﺩ.ﺇ344 per night
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 887 reviews

Popular amenities for Santa Cruz vacation rentals

Stay near Santa Cruz's top sights

Santa Cruz Wharf143 locals recommend
West Cliff Drive193 locals recommend
Ocean View Park18 locals recommend
Pacific Avenue88 locals recommend
Trader Joe's165 locals recommend
Santa Cruz Harbor40 locals recommend

Santa Cruz beach vacation rentals

Guest favorite
Guest suite in Santa Cruz
Birdsong Studio by Beach--Jasmine Gardens
Jul 14 – 21
ﺩ.ﺇ512 per night
4.82 out of 5 average rating, 911 reviews
Guest favorite
Guest suite in Aptos
Aptos-Seacliff Beach Studio by Yves
Aug 21 – 28
ﺩ.ﺇ429 per night
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 157 reviews
Guest favorite
Guesthouse in Santa Cruz
Garden Oasis Guesthouse Relax, Surf & Adventure
May 26 – Jun 2
ﺩ.ﺇ523 per night
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 468 reviews
Guest favorite
Guesthouse in Santa Cruz
SC Boat Harbor/Boardwalk Hideaway
May 4 – 11
ﺩ.ﺇ463 per night
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 197 reviews
Superhost
Guesthouse in La Selva Beach
cute cottage walking distance to beach
Jul 23 – 30
ﺩ.ﺇ561 per night
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 555 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Adorable Capitola/Pleasure Pt Beach House
Dec 31 – Jan 7
ﺩ.ﺇ1,194 per night
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 143 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Sunny Seabright Beach House
Jun 1 – 8
ﺩ.ﺇ1,296 per night
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 229 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Wave House by the Beach for Two!
Aug 20 – 27
ﺩ.ﺇ1,334 per night
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 420 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Serene luxury beach bungalow in Pleasure Point
Dec 31 – Jan 7
ﺩ.ﺇ1,570 per night
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 121 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Pleasure Point Beach House!
Aug 6 – 13
ﺩ.ﺇ1,833 per night
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 358 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Luxury Beach House - Game Room & Hot Tub
Sep 30 – Oct 7
ﺩ.ﺇ2,859 per night
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 213 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Aptos
Ocean View & Beach Walk at SeaBelow
Jun 8 – 15
ﺩ.ﺇ673 per night
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 393 reviews

Santa Cruz house rentals

Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Steps to Black's Beach
Jan 11 – 18
ﺩ.ﺇ716 per night
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 232 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Aptos
The Fox's Den A Relaxing 1 Bedroom Redwood Retreat
Jun 3 – 10
ﺩ.ﺇ518 per night
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 417 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Beach Cottage Getaway
May 24 – 31
ﺩ.ﺇ997 per night
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 307 reviews
Superhost
Home in Santa Cruz
BoardwalkOasis-HotTub+EBikes+Surfbrd+GameRoomKayak
Aug 26 – Sep 2
ﺩ.ﺇ2,385 per night
4.84 out of 5 average rating, 245 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
OCEAN VIEW beach home near Natural Bridges
May 20 – 27
ﺩ.ﺇ2,545 per night
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 329 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Aptos
Aptos Beachfront House
Aug 30 – Sep 6
ﺩ.ﺇ1,565 per night
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 165 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Felton
Hayloft on Organic Farm
Jul 4 – 11
ﺩ.ﺇ598 per night
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 153 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Lower Westside Sanctuary by Natural Bridges Beach
Jul 11 – 18
ﺩ.ﺇ2,868 per night
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 233 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Modern Beach Home w/ Beautiful Deck & Hot Tub
Jul 20 – 27
ﺩ.ﺇ2,022 per night
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 154 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Twin Lakes Santa Cruz Beach Home
Aug 19 – 26
ﺩ.ﺇ2,513 per night
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 100 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
26th Ave Beach Home. 1 block to beach.
Jun 21 – 28
ﺩ.ﺇ1,553 per night
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 592 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Upgraded 2024! Awesome Santa Cruz Beach Bungalow
Nov 13 – 20
ﺩ.ﺇ874 per night
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 495 reviews

Beach house rentals in Santa Cruz

Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Beach Oasis in Downtown Santa Cruz
May 18 – 25
ﺩ.ﺇ1,607 per night
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 103 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Watsonville
Sunset Cottage
Feb 6 – 13
ﺩ.ﺇ826 per night
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 614 reviews
Superhost
Home in Santa Cruz
Pet Friendly, Bright, Beach View, 1 Min to Sand 🏖
Apr 16 – 23
ﺩ.ﺇ1,015 per night
4.79 out of 5 average rating, 156 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Modern Designer: Amazing Location
Jul 31 – Aug 7
ﺩ.ﺇ1,983 per night
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 323 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Magnolia Garden Bungalow :)Dogs/Hot Tub
Jan 30 – Feb 6
ﺩ.ﺇ1,436 per night
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 159 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Watsonville
Copper Nest beach retreat with stunning views
Feb 5 – 12
ﺩ.ﺇ1,865 per night
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 107 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Modern Beach House!.. 2 minute walk to the beach!!
Oct 1 – 8
ﺩ.ﺇ2,185 per night
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 168 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Relaxing West Cliff Escape with Hot Tub!
Jan 31 – Feb 7
ﺩ.ﺇ1,330 per night
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 151 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Quiet Beach Cottage in the heart of Capitola
Jul 9 – 16
ﺩ.ﺇ1,363 per night
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 170 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
Kid-friendly Beach House; 5 minute walk to Beach
Nov 4 – 11
ﺩ.ﺇ694 per night
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 412 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Aptos
Relax Watch Waves Crash Chic + Modern 3BD
Nov 26 – Dec 3
ﺩ.ﺇ2,217 per night
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 479 reviews
Guest favorite
Home in Aptos
Beach House By the Bay
Jul 12 – 19
ﺩ.ﺇ1,358 per night
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 480 reviews

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Santa Cruz

Total rentals

1.4K properties

Rentals with dedicated workspaces

560 properties have a dedicated workspace

Rentals with a pool

80 properties have a pool

Pet-friendly rentals

350 properties allow pets

Family-friendly rentals

810 properties are a good fit for families

Total number of reviews

114K reviews

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 770 house rentals, over 140 apartment rentals, over 10 cabin rentals to over 40 condo rentals, we've got you covered. For even more variety, explore our Airbnb Categories to find the ideal space for your getaway.

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

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 560 vacation rentals in Santa Cruz featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

Destinations to explore