Some info has been automatically translated. Show original language

Waterfront holiday rentals in Santa Cruz

Find and book unique waterfront accommodation on Airbnb

Top-rated waterfront accommodation in Santa Cruz

Guests agree: These waterfront accommodation options are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

%{current} / %{total}1 / 1
Top Guest favourite
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.
Holiday home in Watsonville
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 463 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 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, 138 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
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
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 167 reviews

Victorian Cottage in the Redwoods

Historic Landmark 1899 Queen Anne Victorian Cottage near downtown Boulder Creek , Ca. Walking distance to bus, downtown restaurants, Wild Roots Market, hiking trails, San Lorenzo River. Recently remodeled Entire house, no shared indoor spaces. 1 Bdrm 1 Bath with shower and bathtub Full kitchen Vitamix Organic Coffee Nearby Restaurants Beaches Mountain Biking Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Roaring Camp & Big Trees Narrow Gauge Railroad Santa Cruz Boardwalk Wild Roots Market Permit#221202

Guest favourite
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
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 131 reviews

Brand New Luxury Home - Steps from Capitola Beach!

Brand new luxury home in the heart of Capitola Village, just a 2 minute walk to Capitola beach and downtown, home to some of the most charming restaurants, bars and shops! This features high-end appliances and designer touches throughout. Best of all, this house comes with a 3 car garage!! All rooms comes with a desk and chair, and strong Wifi! Come relax with your friends and family in this stunning modern beach house just steps away from the beach! Ask me about longer term rentals rate

Top Guest favourite
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 Watsonville
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 176 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 favourite
A colorful tiny home is seen surrounded by tall redwood trees. The exterior showcases vibrant blue and yellow walls, contrasted by natural wood planters filled with greenery. Sunlight filters through the trees, enhancing the inviting outdoor space.
Tiny home in Boulder Creek
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 212 reviews

Custom Cabin Retreat in the Redwoods

This retreat offers guests a unique experience of living in a well designed, minimalist space while having all one really needs. From the nautically-inspired curved ceiling w/ skylights to the custom redwood trim, this cozy retreat will inspire. Relax on the private deck with the fire pit, walk to the river or enjoy the local trails thru the towering redwoods. Santa Cruz beaches are just 35 min away, 25 min to Big Basin and Henry Cowell, and 35 min to fine dining in Saratoga.

Top Guest favourite
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
5 out of 5 average rating, 135 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!

Top Guest favourite
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
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 107 reviews

Seascape Beach Resort condo with ocean view

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Monterey Bay from our newly remodeled, Seascape Beach Resort Condo located in Aptos. It is a single level unit with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, a new fireplace, a balcony with white water, ocean views, a fully stocked coffee bar, new mattresses and updated furniture. You will have access to the North Bluff pool and North Bluff jacuzzi, the on-site restaurant / bar and easy beach access.

Guest favourite
A private balcony features a table and two chairs, overlooking the ocean and beach. The setting sun casts warm colors across the horizon, enhancing the view of the serene landscape and distant shoreline.
Condo in Aptos
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 172 reviews

Seascape Oceanf 1 bdr suite hottub Aptos SantaCruz

Treat yourself to this rare ocean front resort with ocean front as well as the beach views from the balcony and from your dining area inside of the unit. One bedroom suite 620 sf. Heated pool, jacuzzi, parking, on site Restaurant, fire places, etc. Unwind and relax to the sound of the ocean waves. Indulge and pamper yourself in luxury and serenity. Parking lot has complimentary EV charging. Front desk at lobby.

Top Guest favourite
A spacious bedroom features vaulted wooden ceilings and large glass sliding doors leading to an outdoor deck. A comfortable bed is flanked by two bedside tables with lamps. A decorative painting hangs above the bed, and a wooden dresser adds functional storage.
Guesthouse in Woodside
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 573 reviews

Guest House in the Woods

Our guest house is located close to La Honda and Woodside in the North Santa Cruz Mountains. Located in the Redwood forest and looks down onto a beautiful creek from a lovely deck. There are many open space hiking and biking trails within a short drive, and the beach. 5 miles from Alice's Resturant. San Francisco and Santa Cruz are easily accessible. The house has vaulted ceilings and a full kitchen, and laundry.

Top Guest favourite
Condo in Watsonville
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 469 reviews

Your Coastal Sanctuary - Far from the Craziness

A calming oceanfront condo at Pajaro Dunes on Monterey Bay, perfect for couples, families, and coastal getaways. Enjoy beach access, ocean views, and a peaceful California coast escape. Your personal retreat on Monterey Bay made for slow mornings, barefoot beach walks, and quiet moments that linger. Unplug, unwind, and rediscover the joy of simple pleasures in a space designed for calm, comfort, and connection.

Guest favourite
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, 343 reviews

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

Steps away from miles of beautiful, unspoiled beaches, this 2 bedroom beach front condo is located in the highly desirable, gated Shorebirds community at Pajaro Dunes. Either enjoying the picture-perfect sunset, taking long walks on the beach, surfing, fishing, or building sand castles, you are sure to capture memorable, relaxing vacations in our comfortable, charming fully furnished condo.

Popular amenities for Santa Cruz waterfront rentals

When is the best time to visit Santa Cruz?

MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg. price$660 AUD$589 AUD$610 AUD$643 AUD$685 AUD$777 AUD$833 AUD$797 AUD$660 AUD$706 AUD$744 AUD$740 AUD
Avg. temp10°C12°C13°C15°C17°C19°C20°C20°C20°C18°C13°C10°C

Quick stats about waterfront rentals in Santa Cruz

  • Total holiday rentals

    Explore 90 holiday rentals in Santa Cruz

  • Nightly prices starting at

    Santa Cruz holiday rentals start at $71 AUD per night before taxes and fees

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 7,220 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly holiday rentals

    70 properties offer extra space and kid-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly accommodation

    Find 20 rentals that welcome pets

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    60 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    90 of Santa Cruz holiday 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!

Destinations to explore