The weather in Northern California, also known as NorCal, is unpredictable. Some days are warm and sunny; some are just gloomy that you just want to stay indoors. Yet, despite the occasional drizzle, you can still enjoy your NorCal holiday with all the exciting places and things that await you. The region comprises gorgeous cities and towns with spectacular natural attractions, rich history, and unmatched ocean views. Make the most of your time by visiting San Francisco and take postcard-pretty pictures of Golden Gate Bridge; explore the living history museum within Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park in Sacramento; go kayaking on Lake Elizabeth in Fremont. There are also glamping spots and treehouse hotels that provide great accommodations. But if you love the salty air, there are plenty of areas in NorCal that ensure an unforgettable seaside holiday. For a place to stay, check out this list of the best beachfront rentals in Northern California.
1. Oceanfront beachhouse boasting amazing sights, Manchester (from USD 230)
As stated by the owner, “If you love the ocean, you will love this house.” This two-bedroom beach house boasts a spectacular panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean from its outdoor deck. The glass walls also showcase eagles soaring through the landscape. All these wonderful sights are complemented by the hot tub that you can relax in. Other amenities you can enjoy include an indoor fireplace, a large jetted bathtub, and a full kitchen. To top it all off, pets are allowed to be brought along so you can share the beautiful landscape with them.
This home is only 1.5 mi (2.4 km) from Manchester State Park and 5.7 mi (9.1 km) from the Point Arena Lighthouse & Museum.
Casa frente al mar frente a la playaAccommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
lovely home with nice amenities (jacuzzi on the deck great views from the living room wood burning fireplace)the views were breathtaking the house very comfortable and hot tub very appreciatedvery comfortable with the best view on the coastwifi worked well in the house and we watched netflix without any problemsgreat living room with lots of places to read do a jigsaw puzzle play cards etcCleanliness:
it was very clean and our dog stayed with usit is well cleaned but could use a 'deep clean' and a through organizingthe house is clean and comfortableRead more reviewsLocation:
fantastic location and very relaxingthe location is wonderful and the house was well equipped and very homeythere's a private beach a short walk away which was such a treatall in all we felt this was a wonderful location especially compared to the many higher priced options
2. Oceanfront home with a great view of the Pacific Ocean, Westport (from USD 400)
Featuring bamboo hardwood floors, wood-paneled ceilings, an open floor plan, and large windows with a great view of the Pacific Ocean, this two-bedroom oceanfront home offers cozy and atmospheric nights for all its guests. There is a large TV with Roku, a DVD player, and a movie library for your entertainment. The outdoor deck has patio seating and a gas grill to complement the wonderful view. The kitchen comes with a stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher.
Conveniently, the home is only 0.3 mi (0.4 km) away from Westport-Union Landing State Beach and 0.8 mi (1.2 km) away from Wages Creek Beach.
casa frente al mar con unas vistas cerca de los senderos de la playa!Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
all the desirable amenities are there from a beautiful kitchen to a great bathroom--washer and dryer toowe really enjoyed the ocean views from each deck the living room and dining roomas explained wifi is scarce but i rather enjoyed being able to disconnect from life's distractionsthe unit needs a bit of tlc but overall or stay was comfortable very pleasantthis was a very clean well appointed and comfortable home with an amazing view and beachCleanliness:
however the dishes bathrooms counters and upstairs were all cleanquiet very clean and well keptwas there in august and loved the home clean tidy and beautiful viewscozy and clean with beautiful viewsHost:
owners were awesome to work with as well as vrboRead more reviewsLocation:
easy location on highway 1wonderful house in great locationwhat a beautiful location and settingthe house is beautiful and the location was exactly as promisedclose to the beach and the house is beautiful
3. Magical place by the sea, Pajaro Dunes (from USD 225)
The title says it all; this one-bedroom oceanfront condo offers an unforgettable vacation for its guests through its panoramic ocean views from Santa Cruz to Monterey. Nature lovers will be glad to know that hummingbirds frequent the home’s deck, which makes for a great spot for some birdwatching with the ocean as your backdrop. There’s also a flat-screen smart TV, a Bose sound system, and an Amazon Echo Dot smart speaker for your entertainment.
Finally, this home is only 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Sunset State Beach, 4 mi (6.4 km) from Watsonville Square Shopping Center, and 4.2 mi (6.7 km) from Ramsay Park.
Lugar mágico junto al mar.Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
wifi netflix and alexa were appreciatedbeautiful views from the bedroom and living roomwe all loved the shower hummingbirds and the viewpicture perfect stay beautiful view of the ocean lovely condo very comfortable really homeyCleanliness:
clean well stocked kitchena very clean house and excellent managrmrnt of propertyit's always very clean very well stockedvery clean huge hot shower for those cold morningsthis seaside abode was very clean attractive nicely & comfortably decorated + well stockedHost:
the owners are wonderfulthe owners are fantastically accommodating and wonderful to work withowner's pride in ownership is obviousthey were also super responsive and helpfuldeborah (host) was very easy to communicate with and very accommodating we’ll definitely try to get back soonRead more reviewsLocation:
excellent location right on the oceanperfect place to get away from it all; to rest reflect & renewmy favorite place to read was in the brown leather recliner near the window :)great place to visit all surrounding areas of the monterey coast
4. Studio-style cottage decorated with ivy and pines, Mendocino County (from USD 342)
This studio-style cottage offers a wonderful view of the Mendocino Coast and 6 acres (2.4 hectares) of secluded oceanfront. Artfully decorated with ivy and pines, the cottage comes with a cable TV, a Louis XVI bed, and lounge chairs on the private deck. The kitchenette is furnished with a coffee maker, teapot, mini-fridge, and microwave.
For the attractions you can visit, the cottage is only 0.2 mi (0.3 km) from Jughandle State Natural Reserve, 4 mi (6.4 mi) from Watsonville Square Shopping Center, and 7.3 mi (11.7 km) from Van Damme State Park.
Cabaña frente al mar con terraza privada, hoguera y vistas increíbles, ¡a minutos de la ciudad!Accommodates: 2
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
The cottage was comfortable and well-appointedThe firepit is in front of their house not in front of the cottageIt was cozy and delightful Better equipped that we thought it would bebut you may not want to leave the cottageunfortunately it is in the driveway of the owners and there is absolutely NO privacyCleanliness:
However when we open the garbage can under the sink it smelled like rotten diapers had been place in the canthe privacy is awesome and we left refreshed and happyHost:
We love staying in Le FauxVery quaint and warm feelingAbsolutely breathtaking views Very private and great Sunsets; words and pics do not do itThis is an extremely lovely and well appointed cottagea beautiful cottage with comfortable bedding towels robesRead more reviewsLocation:
Great setting and location to Mendocino and the Botanical GardensSuch a quiet tranquil place Just a few minutes from downtown Fort Bragg and MendocinoThe location is very convenient to downtown Mendocino and Fort Bragg but away enough to feel secludedThe cottage is only about 10-15 minutes away from Mendocino and about the same distance from Fort BraggThe minute you drive through the gate to this beautiful property
5. Beach house with a view of Hare Creek Bay, Mendocino County (from USD 550)
With floor-to-ceiling windows, this four-bedroom beach house features a fabulous view of Hare Creek Bay. The home showcases a variety of wonderful sights, from the surfers in the water to the birds that fly just above it. The kitchen is furnished with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, an under-counter beverage refrigerator, a full-sized refrigerator, a gas range, and a microwave.
Conveniently, the home is less than a mile (1.6 km) away from Pomo Bluffs Park, Noyo Harbor, and Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.
PLAYA RARA Y CASA FRENTE AL OCÉANOAccommodates: 8
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
well thought out floor plan wide open great kitchen and dining areaswe so appreciate all of the extras in the kitchen and the gorgeous amenitiesbeautiful spacious well appointed home amazing kitchen fully equipped for a chef's delightthe beds were also very comfortable and town was not fair awayCleanliness:
the house is amazing very clean and easy beach accessthe house was so clean and well stocked there was nothing we needed that it didn't haveit’s private clean beautifully decorated and very comfortableview was outstanding home had all new appliances clean and comfortablegreat place had everything you need cozy cozy clean happy birthday girl hereHost:
super fast response by owner to any questions that we hadthe owners are responsive and helpfullynda was the most helpful host i have encountered in our many vacation rental staysand owners were very helpful and prompt in all dealingsalways the best both property and owners are top notchRead more reviewsLocation:
close to town and extremely close to all other attractionswe had a family get away for the weekend and this house and location was perfectwe loved staying at this beautiful locationgreat location too who could ask for more?what an incredible place to spend time with loved ones
6. Surfscape Beach House, Bodega Bay (from USD 775)
Located atop a cliff, this beach house offers guests a front-row seat to the awe-inspiring Pacific Ocean views. The whole space has a playful coastal vibe with details such as a pillow-piled couch, raked ceiling, ceramic floors, and planked walls. It has an open-plan living room and a dining area with expansive windows.
The kitchen, with views of the gentle waves outside, makes a great place to brush up on your cooking skills. This house also encourages you to indulge in outdoor relaxation. Head to the deck with a chaise lounge and watch the sun set over the ocean. Alternatively, you can cook barbecue and savor it with your company.
Surfscape Beach HouseAccommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 1
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
also the beds have done their time - old mattresses makes for an comfortable sleepHost:
pierre was a perfect host answering questions and requests promptlythe owners were great and worked with us for another dateRead more reviewsLocation:
wonderful location whether you need to venture out or stay inthe location overlooking the ocean with the upper and lower patios was amazing
7. Brynant Cottage, Marshall (from USD 425)
Unplug from your busy life and seek a respite at this two-bedroom cottage that sits on a majestic bluff overlooking Tamales Bay. Step inside and be stunned by the well-decorated sections of the house. The open-plan living and dining area is decked out with wooden furniture with accents of blue for a dash of fun. Meanwhile, the bedroom is equipped with dark wood furniture and comes with a balcony.
When it comes to outdoor space, this cottage boasts two decks where you can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee in the morning or cocktail in the evening. There’s also a private garden that lets you do a mini yoga session with your companions.
Preciosa cabaña junto al mar en la mágica bahía de TomalesAccommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
plenty of space great kitchen view deck etcvery cozy quiet and serenethe loved their room and because of it allowed us to have some privacy and alone timethe house is comfortable clean and all the needed amenities for a holiday awayCleanliness:
house was clean and exactly as describedthe inside is beautiful too clean comfortable and artistically decoratedquiet clean has everything in the kitchen and relaxing atmospherewhat a magical place incredibly peaceful setting well appointed house very clean and brightHost:
managers were helpful and listing was accuratebirds chirping deer and even wild turkeys were sighted would return to this property owner/manager very responsiveRead more reviewsLocation:
plus a nice walk in the woods and close to pt reyes station and the parkexcellent location for a family get together
8. Marebello, Fort Bragg (from USD 384)
This condo is in a coveted location, where you can stay close not just to the surf but also to a variety of local amenities. It is attached to a bigger home, but you are still guaranteed utmost privacy. It has one bed, a kitchen, and a full bathroom. The overall interior is also a sight to behold, thanks to the all-white walls that complement the rustic wood accents.
After a long day at the beach, step into this condo equipped with a cable television and a reliable WiFi. You can also spend a lazy afternoon soaking in the hot tub, or relaxing on the deck and watching the waves go back and forth. For a change of scenery, just walk a few meters from this condo and you’ll find Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.
Condominio frente al mar con jacuzzi privado, terraza amueblada y vistas - a pie de playaAccommodates: 2
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
9. Unique hideaway with a hot tub, Fort Bragg (from USD 521)
Are you planning to spend a weekend in Fort Bragg? Then, consider booking this unique abode that can sleep up to eight guests. It is nestled on a bluff overlooking a majestic ocean, so you can take in the cool air every day. Plus, it boast an exterior that resembles a traditional Victorian house, complete with steeply pitched roofs, bricks, and raised panel shutters.
Inside is a very different world — tasteful wooden furniture goes well with accent walls to give off that stately yet homey vibe. The themed bedrooms promise quality nighttime sleep, while the fully equipped kitchen inspires you to whip up delicious dinners. In terms of having fun, you have two options — play board games in front of an electric fireplace or sip a cold drink while lounging on the ocean-facing deck.
casa frente al mar w / bañera de hidromasaje privada, vistas desde la cubierta, hasta 4 perros bienvenidos!Accommodates: 8
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beautiful views from every room in the househouse furniture is dated but comfortableamazing views comfortable and interesting interior good hot tubwish master suite had wifi and tvbeds we’re very comfortable - very enjoyable weekCleanliness:
the house was very clean and well equipped
only other feedback would be to clean the hot tub better- it had sand in itHost:
many thanks to the owners for the use of this wonderful coastal rentalRead more reviewsLocation:
absolutely stunning location location locationthe location of the house is perfectperfect location to restaurants shopping and excursionsthe location is great if you want to visit the many attractions from ftthis place is very unique beautiful and quiet
10. Cove Suite, Mendocino (from USD 259)
What could be a better romantic weekend getaway spot than this suite with striking views of the Pacific? This rental is cleaned to a high standard, and features one bedroom for two people or a couple. You are not going to be disappointed, as this bright, open-plan space features a double bed and a wingback sofa, as well as a fully fitted bathroom with a bathtub.
If the views from the enormous windows are not enough to thoroughly impress you, check out the deck that looks out onto the beautiful turquoise sea. What’s more, this suite is also pet friendly, so don’t hesitate to take your fur babies with you.
Cove Suite - LA MEJOR PROPIEDAD FRENTE AL MAR, LAS MEJORES VISTAS DE LA COSTA NORTEAccommodates: 2
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the little wood stove (wood provided) and heating system kept us just comfortableit is so comfortable and relaxing - you won't want to leavespectacular views clean cozy suite and comfy bedCleanliness:
simple clean well decorated and furnishedvery clean and well appointed we will be backRead more reviewsHost:
thanks to dan the owner for being always approachable and helpful
11. Ocean Mystique, Westport (from USD 337)
Recharge from your busy work life with a stay at this peaceful beach cottage in the tranquil community of Westport. Previous guests loved the rental’s location on top of a bluff with unrivalled views of the Pacific Ocean — and surely, you’ll experience it too. Besides the outdoor appeal, the inside is equally impressive. The white walls and hardwood floors create an elegant vibe, while the floor-to-ceiling windows add to the overall aesthetic.
This cottage also offers spots for relaxation, such as a hot tub and a balcony. Another thing that makes this property worth checking out is that it allows dogs to join in the holiday fun.
Agradable para perros en casa w / vistas al mar justo fuera de las ventanas y una bañera de hidromasaje privada!Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
from any angle you can enjoy the view from the kitchen living room and from both the bedroomsthe view was gorgeous the accommodations comfortable - not luxurious but finebeds were comfortable and more blankets were available if need behome was clean comfortable and the view was incrediblethe kitchen is small and equips but please be aware that it is stocked with basics onlyCleanliness:
everything was very clean and comfortablethe house comes to you very clean with plenty of towelshouse was very net and cleanand the house was clean and easy to enjoythe house was clean the hot tub tooHost:
everyone was very friendly and we enjoyed walking the small townRead more reviewsLocation:
wesport is so quaint & close by to many adventuresview was amazing and nice park near by for taking dogs for a walklots of privacy yet a 2 minute walk to the small grocery which we loved as wellwould be a great place for a romantic get awayquiet and cool exactly what we were looking for
12. Fox Kit Cottage, Bodega Bay (from USD 425)
This newly renovated cottage in Bodega Bay has all the features of an ideal beach home. Since it is located on Wrights beach, almost every room in this rental affords magnificent ocean views. Upon entering, you know for sure that this is going to be a seaside holiday worth remembering. The interior exudes a classy beach vibe, with white-painted walls, neutral-colored furniture, wooden doors, and fun paintings.
The bedrooms are fitted with fresh linens and cozy pillows, while the kitchen with cherry cabinets lets you cook easily. There’s more to this house than the ocean views. Outside, there’s a deck with a spa tub, where you take a dip while soaking up the fresh air.
Frente al mar - Bañera de hidromasaje - Casa recién remodeladaAccommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the cottage is fully equipped and comfortablethe house had all the amenities and was comfortable for family of fourthe appliances are great the bedding is comfortable the view is outstandingthe beds were also very comfortable and the bathroom is newCleanliness:
the place was very clean (and i'm fairly picky about cleanliness)the house was clean and comfortable and well stocked with amenitiesHost:
neighbors were friendly and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
great location overlooking wright beachbest location i have ever rented and i am a life long resident of the north baythat being said it's still super close just not as close as we imaginedwe will definitely return and to enjoy this beautiful location
13. Lovely condo near a sandy beach, Pajaro Dunes (from USD 259)
Longing for the smell of the salty air and the feel of the sand between your toes? If so, then consider booking this condo that promises the best beach experience. This seaside condo provides you with a quick access to the beautiful Sunset State Beach so that you can indulge in water-related activities such as swimming, surfing, and windsurfing.
In terms of what awaits you inside, there is one bedroom with a king-sized bed and massive flat-screen TV, an opulent-looking bathroom with a granite counter and tile shower, and a cozy living room with windows and a Murphy bed. Also, you can prepare delicious snacks in the fully equipped kitchen and have them on the breezy patio.
Condominio frente al mar con maravillosa vista de 180 grados desde Santa Cruz a MontereyAccommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
condo was clean and everything was in good shape and updatedthe views from this place were absolutely amazing the property was very clean and updatedHost:
they provided alot of helpful informationthe hosts were amazing as wellthey were so helpful in giving great restaurant recommendations for our anniversary dinnerthe owners paul and tuana made us feel welcome with goodies to enjoy during our stayowners were very nice and helpful easy to work withRead more reviewsLocation:
wow what a perfect location to go with the perfect tripthis is property is just as described and has a great locationexcellent view and location near the beachwell be back
14. Osprey House, Trinidad (from USD 500)
Let go of your stress by planning a seaside holiday in Trinidad, a city in NorCal known for its beaches. Fill each day with some fun in the sun and then, retire to this beach house. Also known as Osprey House, this three-bedroom abode boasts a spacious kitchen with modern appliances and brand-new pots/pans.
You will also love the stylish living room that evokes a serene atmosphere with its colorful rug, floor-to-ceiling windows, and indoor plants. Chill on the deck with unparalleled ocean views, or take a dip in the hot tub for further relaxation. There’s also a zen garden, where you can read a good book or spend some quiet time alone.
Osprey Casa privada de playaAccommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
this is a cozy home with stunning views of the oceanCleanliness:
clean property and well represented onlineHost:
gabriel was very kind and great to communicate with throughoutRead more reviewsLocation:
the house was in a great location - quiet and only a few minutes from townit is a perfect place to get away with the family and have time to yourselvesthoroughly enjoyed our time at this beautiful locationvery pleased with this place
15. Light and airy house with a deck, Shelter Cove
Experience days of sunshine at this excellent abode, located just a few steps from the Pacific Ocean. It is a two-bedroom house that ensures guests a degree of comfort with its warm living room, spotless kitchen, and immaculate bathrooms. Besides the bedroom with a queen-size bed, this rental also has a loft fitted with a king-size bed and a seating area.
The entire house is airy, and almost all the rooms have huge windows that let in plenty of natural light, or you can take in views of the not-so-distant sea. It also has a lovely deck, where you and your loved ones can gather together to watch the sky turn into hues of orange, purple, and red. If you have more time to spare, don’t forget to check out Mal Coombs Park and Benbow Inn Golf Course nearby.
Ocean View Home w/ Gorgeous Sunset Views, Large Deck, Wood Stove, WiFi, W/D!Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
Soak up the NorCal sun
Despite the unpredictable weather, there are plenty of things that you can do and explore while in NorCal — one of which is going to the beach. You can also have fun in theme parks or learn more about a gold mine trail. So, if you have been longing to stay near the sea, check out the above list of the best beachfront rentals in Northern California.
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