Places to stay near Santa Cruz Beach

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Top-rated holiday rentals near Santa Cruz Beach

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

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Top Guest favourite
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, 164 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

Top Guest favourite
A welcoming living space features a comfortable armchair positioned next to a wooden coffee table. Natural light enters through double doors that lead to an outdoor patio area. Decorative elements, such as artwork and a light fixture, add character to the room.
Condo in Santa Cruz
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 336 reviews

Welcome to Harbor House. Your Favorite Home at the Beach.

Prepare to enjoy this retreat close to the ocean with warm light and comfortable furnishings. Relax and experience a beautiful sense of calm from this quiet retreat. Murray Street Bridge is closed for repair INDEFINITELY Relax and enjoy the new fire pit table during the cool summer nights on the updated deck or enjoy a dinner under the stars using the new BBQ in the new outdoor dining area. **BBQ AND FIRE PIT TABLE are for (June-Sept)This property is not suitable for guests under 12 years old.

Guest favourite
A uniquely designed treehouse is elevated among the trees, showcasing large glass windows and wooden beams. A wooden walkway leads up to the structure, enhancing the connection with the surrounding natural environment.
Treehouse in Aptos
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 601 reviews

Peaceful Treehouse with Ocean View

Permit 171035 Featured by Sunset Magazine as a “chic escape,” this Peaceful Treehouse-style retreat blends mid-century design with natural materials like wood and stone for a calming, sanctuary feel. Light pours through floor-to-ceiling windows beneath soaring wooden beams, and Japanese-inspired doors add to the architectural charm. Set high in the trees with ocean views, the home offers three elevated decks including one with a hammock. Perfect for relaxing and enjoying the surrounding canopy.

Guest favourite
A hot tub is situated beneath a wooden pergola, offering a view of the ocean in the distance. Lush greenery surrounds the area, and a clear blue sky complements the serene setting.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 368 reviews

Full Ocean View Cottage!HotTub+Bikes+Srfbrds+Kayak

Our cute beach home offers the best Santa Cruz location! First house in from the ocean, with fantastic ocean views. Watch whales passing by from the deck, ride the bikes down beautiful west cliff drive to the Boardwalk and Wharf down the street, take the surfboards out to Steamer Lane, launch the 2 person sea kayak from the harbor (already there, ready to launch), and come back to soak in the hot tub. **Are you getting a message from Airbnb blocking you from booking? Message us we can fix it**

Top Guest favourite
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.
Guesthouse in Felton
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 308 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 favourite
A private yard is surrounded by tall trees, featuring a hot tub with bubbles rising to the surface. A hammock is visible to the side of the yard, alongside two Adirondack chairs. The cabin's entrance is shown, with a window allowing natural light to enter.
Cabin in Boulder Creek
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 119 reviews

Forest Cabin & Hot Tub

Take it easy in this cozy cabin retreat in the Santa Cruz Mountains. 30 minutes from downtown Santa Cruz and beaches. This charming 400 sq. ft. studio is the perfect setting to disconnect from city life and immerse yourself in the redwoods. The cabin features a queen bed, full bathroom, kitchen & BBQ. The private yard includes a hot tub, propane firepit and hammock to fully relax and unwind. Please note the cabin is on a one way, windy road. There is WiFi but no TV or A/C. SCC Permit# 241449

Top Guest favourite
The exterior of a two-story carriage house is displayed, featuring a spacious driveway and large garage doors. Lush greenery surrounds the area, contributing to a serene garden setting. Bright blue skies complement the well-maintained landscaping, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere.
Guesthouse in Santa Cruz
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 340 reviews

Charming Light-Filled Carriage House Apartment

Our 1928 carriage house apartment is walking distance to the Boardwalk, beach, wharf, basketball stadium, and downtown. Cowells and Main Beaches, Steamers Lane, Boardwalk, wharf, and West Cliff Drive (path along the ocean) are all a quick 5 min walk from our house. The apartment is located in a private garden setting, away from the main street, behind our home. There is a separate dedicated garden space for you to use. We hope you will love this historical neighborhood as much as we do!

Top Guest favourite
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, 197 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 favourite
A spacious living area features comfortable seating with a light-toned sofa and two woven armchairs. A round coffee table sits at the center, and large windows adorned with bamboo shades allow natural light to fill the room, creating a serene atmosphere.
Home in Santa Cruz
5 out of 5 average rating, 184 reviews

Beach Hill Hideaway - Steps to Beach & Boardwalk

Escape to Beach Hill Hideaway, a light-filled, 2,000 sq ft 3 bedroom/2 bath coastal home in Santa Cruz. Perfect for families and friends, this stylish retreat comfortably fits your group and is just steps from the Beach Boardwalk, Wharf, and downtown. Enjoy a fully-equipped kitchen, free on-site parking, EV charger, air conditioning, outdoor shower, BBQ and fire pit, TV with Roku, piano, books/games, yoga mats, and dedicated workspace. Walk everywhere from this prime location!

Guest favourite
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, 198 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 favourite
A well-lit backyard features a wooden deck and hot tub with steam rising, illuminated by string lights overhead. The inviting outdoor space offers a view of the home, with sliding glass doors leading to a cozy interior atmosphere.
Guest suite in Santa Cruz
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 334 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).

Top Guest favourite
Home in Santa Cruz
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 681 reviews

Town-and-Nature

Three beautiful, quiet, private and secure rooms within our home, with separate entrance. PLEASE NOTE: It is part of a home, not entire home as listing heading implies, due to Airbnb's limited choices. Lovely garden with outside sitting area. 20 minute footpath/walk to beach through green belt and harbor, great restaurants nearby including three at the beach, short drive to downtown for live music and arts. Host is German, practices acupuncture.

Popular amenities for holiday rentals near Santa Cruz Beach

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where is Santa Cruz Beach located?

    Santa Cruz Beach is on the northern edge of Monterey Bay in California, bordered by the vibrant city of Santa Cruz. The beach sits near the downtown area, with the iconic Boardwalk and wharf nearby.

  • When is the best time to visit Santa Cruz Beach?

    Santa Cruz Beach has drier, warmer weather in summer and early fall, which are often recommended for beach and outdoor activities. Spring brings wildflower blooms and lighter crowds, while winter tends to be cooler and occasionally rainy.

  • What are some things to do near Santa Cruz Beach?

    Around Santa Cruz Beach, you can explore the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk with its classic rides, stroll the Municipal Wharf for ocean views and local seafood, or join surf lessons along the shore. The area also has lively shops, casual cafes, and scenic walking trails.

  • How is the weather near Santa Cruz Beach?

    Expect mild winters with temperatures around 42–59°F (6–15°C) and wetter conditions, while summers are warmer and mostly dry, reaching 58–77°F (15–25°C). Fog can drift in mornings and evenings, clearing to reveal sunny afternoons.