House vacation rentals in Santa Cruz

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Top-rated house rentals in Santa Cruz

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

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Top 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
4.79 out of 5 average rating, 684 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 charming two-story cottage is presented with a vibrant blue exterior, accented by a large yellow circle. Palm trees frame the scene, with a welcoming front porch featuring a railing. The surrounding area consists of a quiet street and neighboring houses, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.
Home in Capitola
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 322 reviews

Steps to Capitola Beach♦King Bed♦EVCharger♦Pets OK

Recently renovated with hardwood floors & stainless steel appliances. Spend your next beach getaway in the heart of the Capitola Village, a 3 minute walk to the beach, restaurants & shopping. This lovely 2-bedroom house has a private balcony w/a BBQ & sleeps up to 6. Level 2 EV charger in garage. Convenient Amenities Include: *Self check-in *Wireless Internet *Dog Friendly - 1 dog (40lbs +/- max) *Parking for 1 car in the attached garage (w/EV Charger) *Roku TV with Netflix, Disney+, YouTube

Guest favorite
The exterior of the two-story home showcases a modern design with a combination of wood and gray siding. A large window allows natural light to enter, while a tree provides shaded greenery in the front. A walkway leads to the entrance, and parking spaces are visible.
Home in Capitola
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 122 reviews

Capitola Village Wind + Sea Home

Our beautifully renovated 2 bedroom (Both upstairs) and 2 full bathrooms (One on the ground floor and one on the upper floor) along with a ground floor plush queen sleeper sofa and ground floor great room with dining for 7 plus a bar table separating the kitchen from the living room is in the perfect location. Walk to the beach, shops, restaurants, or a nice walk along the river. We are right in the Capitola Village. We hope you enjoy your stay. If you have questions, we respond promptly.

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 out of 5 average rating, 193 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!

Top guest favorite
A serene bedroom is showcased with a spacious bed adorned with a light cover and decorative pillows. A large photo of a pier at sunset decorates the wall above the bed. Two windows and skylights allow natural light to illuminate the room, complemented by bedside lamps.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 307 reviews

Lower Westside Sanctuary by Natural Bridges Beach

From our family of beach bums to yours: welcome to our newly remodeled, coastal sanctuary on the quiet lower Westside of Santa Cruz. Stroll 5 minutes to Natural Bridges Beach by day. By night, stargaze from the hot tub or gather around the gas fire pit. Wildlife abounds: from our resident hummingbirds and butterflies at home to occasional seal, otter and whale sightings at Natural Bridges. Hungry/thirsty? Stroll 10 minutes to the heart of Santa Cruz’s beer, wine, and foodie scene!

Guest favorite
An open-concept living space features a white couch adorned with colorful cushions, a light blue area rug, and a small dining table with stools. The kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, and large windows allow natural light to flood the room, highlighting beach-themed decor.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 192 reviews

Mermaid Cottage - Walk to Beach+Boardwalk+Downtown

Welcome to the Mermaid Cottage located in the heart of Santa Cruz! This cute and cozy retreat is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun. Just a short walk away, you'll find yourself on the sandy shores of Cowell's Beach, where you can swim, surf, or just relax and soak up the sun. And if you're looking for some excitement, the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is also just a short stroll away. Short-term rental permit (STR22-0024) Transient Occupancy Tax No. 002482

Top guest favorite
Home in Santa Cruz
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 318 reviews

Safe, Steps To Beach, Spa, Near Harbor, Pets Okay!

This unique beach house is one block from Twin Lakes beach, the finest one in Santa Cruz! It is a 2-story, designer home with an open floorplan, gridwork of glass to allow in plenty of light and offers ocean peeks. Originally constructed in 1975 with barn-wood imported from Idaho, it offers an old-world charm and a completely modern interior with all the conveniences. Perfect for families & beach lovers! Owners may bring their pet for an additional fee of $35/day

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
5 out of 5 average rating, 210 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 deck is visible, adorned with modern outdoor furniture and surrounded by lush greenery, creating an inviting outdoor space. Large sliding glass doors lead into a bright interior with a cozy seating area and a fireplace, blending the indoor and outdoor environments.
Home in Aptos
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 256 reviews

Modern Beach Retreat-Free EV Charging

This open and airy modern home is a 5 minute walk to Rio del Mar beach. Enjoy the clean design, large deck and indoor outdoor living. Numerous outdoor activities at your doorstep including golf, world class surf breaks, and renowned biking and hiking trails in the forest of Nisene Marks. Equipped with high speed internet, a projector and Sonos sound system. Our place comfortably hosts five and is good for couples, business travelers, solo, and families.

Top guest favorite
A spacious deck features comfortable adirondack chairs arranged around a fire pit, with the ocean and lagoon visible in the background. Eucalyptus trees provide shade and a natural ambiance, enhancing the serene atmosphere of this outdoor space.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 119 reviews

Beach View Cottage - Hot Tub

Gorgeous, newly remodeled, home with amazing views of the ocean, beach, and lagoon. Hot tub, bikes, surfboards, kayak. Everything you could possibly want for a Santa Cruz trip in a spectacular setting VR PERMIT # 191354 Just 200 yards from the beach, this tranquil beach view cottage is your perfect beachside escape. Located on a quiet, private street in Pleasure Point, this charming and newly updated two-story home offers stunning ocean views.

Top guest favorite
An open kitchen and living area are highlighted, featuring a modern counter with three bar stools. Bright wood flooring complements the white cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. A dining table for four is visible in the background, seamlessly connecting the spaces.
Home in Upper Seabright
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 397 reviews

Sunny Seabright Beach House

Sunny beach house located in Midtown, Santa Cruz. Amazing location with a five minute walk to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Just a few blocks from Seabright Beach, the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor and some of the best local restaurants and breweries in town. The home boasts a well-furnished rooftop deck, a beautiful open floor plan, and a fully equipped kitchen. This house is cozy, bright, and inviting. You will surely love your stay here!

Guest favorite
Home in Aptos
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 429 reviews

Aptos Beach Retreat • Hot Tub & 5 Min Walk to Sand

Unwind by the Bay at this luxury Aptos beach bungalow near Rio Del Mar Beach. Enjoy cathedral ceilings, a private outdoor hot tub, heated bathroom floors, and a fully equipped kitchen. Perfect for couples, small families, or remote stays with Wi-Fi and Roku TV. Walk to the beach or explore nearby Seacliff State Beach, Capitola Village, and Santa Cruz Boardwalk. Relax, recharge, and soak up Monterey Bay’s coastal charm. Permit #211099

Popular amenities for Santa Cruz house rentals

When is the best time to visit Santa Cruz?

MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg. priceﺩ.ﺇ1,223ﺩ.ﺇ1,201ﺩ.ﺇ1,296ﺩ.ﺇ1,285ﺩ.ﺇ1,285ﺩ.ﺇ1,502ﺩ.ﺇ1,609ﺩ.ﺇ1,542ﺩ.ﺇ1,326ﺩ.ﺇ1,267ﺩ.ﺇ1,374ﺩ.ﺇ1,381
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Quick stats about house rentals in Santa Cruz

  • Total vacation rentals

    Explore 870 vacation rentals in Santa Cruz

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 57,040 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly vacation rentals

    660 properties offer extra space & kid-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly vacation rentals

    Find 220 rentals that welcome pets

  • Vacation rentals with a pool

    20 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    350 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    860 of Santa Cruz vacation rentals include wi-fi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Kitchen, Wifi, and Pool across Santa Cruz rentals

  • 4.9 Average rating

    Santa Cruz stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.9 out of 5!

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