Santa Cruz boasts expansive beaches and well-established surf culture. To learn more about surfing and its history in the US, the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is the perfect place. At Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, one of the great hiking and trekking spots in Santa Cruz, you will marvel at the towering redwoods while walking along its nature trails. These gigantic trees attain height of 300 ft (91 m) and width of 16 ft (4.9 m). Also, the Felton Covered Bridge County Park features one of California’s covered bridges constructed in 1892. For an unforgettable experience, we’d recommend staying in one of the vacation rentals in Santa Cruz where you can enjoy amazing views or cozy up by the fireplace. Here’s a rundown of the top cabins near Santa Cruz, California.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 26, 2024.
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1. Whiskey Hollow (from USD 335)
Indulge yourselves in a luxurious getaway at this A-frame cabin nestled in the Santa Cruz mountains enveloped by towering redwoods. The skylights bring in plenty of natural light, making the charming interiors look even more spacious and comfortable. Guests can kick back and relax near the wood fireplace or the deck, or take a bath in the oversized bathtub. The kitchen is fully equipped and there’s a charcoal grill as well.
The main level has one bedroom and the living space, while the loft features a second bed and an office space. Throughout your stay, Whiskey Hollow ensures you feel at home with thoughtful amenities such as television, board games, books, popcorn, coffee, and tea.
Despite being in the woods, it is located close to downtown Felton, Henry Cowell State Park, the beach, and downtown Santa Cruz, ensuring guests the best of both worlds.
Top guest reviews
Host:
jamie and paige were so amazing hoststhe host were sweet and very responsivebeautiful cabin the hosts were very welcoming and responsivejaime was a great hostthe hosts were also super quick to respond and accommodating when we had a slight change in plansLocation:
peaceful area and close to hiking trails and storesawesome place to stay near santa cruzthe location is wonderful - surrounded by redwoods but also a quick drive to santa cruzwe also loved how close some hiking trails werethis house was an ideal place for a birthday getawayCleanliness:
this place is clean but does not smell of harsh bleaches and chemicalsjamie's place is gorgeous super clean and aesthetically pleasingit is a cozy beautiful home tucked in the redwoods & is meticulously clean & very tastefully decoratedthe place was clean and cozy the bedroom is so cutethe space was clean cozy and had a variety of amenitiesRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the home is unique and comfortable while the amenities are on par with a luxury hotelwe had a great stay at jamie’s place it exceeded expectations and was very cozy
2. Pet-friendly cabin with beautiful mountain views (from USD 265)
This two-bedroom rental describes itself as having “all the comforts of home contained inside a grid mobile cabin”. Take in the fresh forest air and the beautiful mountain views as the cabin is located inside 10 acres (4 hectares) of private woodland. As for amenities, the cabin is solar-powered and provides its guests with a full kitchen, propane furnace, air conditioning, and a deck with a propane grill, hammock, and outdoor patio furniture. And to top it all off, the cabin welcomes guests to bring their pets along.
Finally, the cabin is only 1.3 mi (2 km) from Hastings Natural History Reservation, 12.5 mi (20.1 km) from Hahn Winery Tasting Room, and 13 mi (20.9 km) from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
3. Treehouse with a private deck (from USD 6947)
This rental draws its design inspiration from a yurt and treehouse. It comprises an eight-sided house sitting on a platform that is raised about 10 ft (3.05 m) from the ground. Redwood trees encircle it creating an impression of a house that grew from trees. Step inside and stand in awe of its large windows and high ceilings. It has recessed lighting in the living area that also has a luxurious couch.
The bedroom is in the loft located above the living room. A redwood ladder will lead you to the space that has a sky view. The treehouse cabin in the Santa Cruz mountains has a private deck, where you can enjoy meals and watch beautiful sunsets.
Top guest reviews
Host:
lovely and helpful hosts are the added sparkle of delightthe staff was very sweet kind and helpfulshe was so friendly and responded to questions we had quicklythank you for being such a great tour guide and host emberlie :-)beautiful property and great hostsLocation:
amazing location and beautiful cabinperfect location for a get away from your busy lifeperfect location not far from town but far enough away to feel secludedwonderful place and location great valuevery relaxing place to spend some timeCleanliness:
very clean and quiet place we loved itpool and jacuzzi are clean and very goodthe treehouse was clean and the property was amazingyou could smell the detergent/fabric softener on them :) the pool and hot tub were cleanthe bed was very comfortable the kitchen and shower were clean and very modernRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
that bed was like sleeping on a cloudit has a great fully functional kitchenwonderful grounds great vibes comfortable and beautiful accommodationthe redwood deck bamboo forest pool and hot sauna/cold plunge (highly recommend) were a few of our favoritesthe loft was awesome and had plenty of room around the king sized bed
4. Charming cabin with an outdoor clawfoot bathtub (from USD 1903)
This studio house is hidden among the trees and boasts a garden setting. It has an outdoor bathroom with a clawfoot bathtub. There is a large, private deck area, where you can enjoy quiet moments. Couples will love this retreat. For the adventurous traveler, the Santa Cruz area has dozens of hiking and biking mountain trails. Five minutes away from the house is the San Lorenzo River, where you can take refreshing dips in the hot summer.
Top guest reviews
Host:
courteous hosts with quick responsesthe hosts were super responsive when it came to any questions about the studio/surrounding areai appreciated the home-like feel and eco friendly mindfulnessi love this little hideaway afraid and michele are wonderful and warm hostsafrid and michelle are great hosts easy going ready to help with anything you might needLocation:
very cute and cozy locationeasy to find location near santa cruzthe location is magnificent for getting away but not being totally far from necessitiesi loved the location and tranquility of this placeit's a easy walk to downtown ben lomondCleanliness:
otherwise space is clean cute and cozypleasant very clean everything i neededthe compost toilet was clean and easy to useeverything was so clean and the bed was incredibly comfortableit was our first time using a composting toilet and it was easy clean and comfortableRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the deck was an awesome place to sit and enjoy the view while having coffee and breakfastthe cabin / studio is cozy with all necessary amenities in a lovely section of the forestthe outdoor deck is stunning and super private - we enjoyed each meal we had at the tablethe space itself is cozy and cute with a lot of basic amenities you’d needthe wifi was also really strong which was ideal for the work video calls we had to take
5. log cabin surrounded by redwoods (from USD 231)
This 1934 two-bedroom cabin is located within redwoods and sleeps up to three. With oversized skylights and windows high up the wall, you’ll be treated to the sight of clouds touching these redwoods. The cabin guarantees fun and refreshing time among the trees, with a deck overlooking the creek and numerous hiking trails around.
In terms of attractions, this cabin is not too far off as it only takes 10 minutes to a local winery with a view of the bay area, 20 minutes to the nearby beach, 30 minutes to Half Moon Bay, and 40 minutes to San Francisco.
6. Adobe Casita (from USD 111)
This eco-retreat features a beautiful design, with one bedroom and space for two guests. It is in a lush area that comprises cactus, bamboo, giant trees, and other exotic plants. Amenities include a fenced pool with a hot tub. You will also fall in love with its magical gardens, where one section has seating area next to a small pond. Soak in the tub and watch the Hummingbirds fly. Here, you will unplug from the outside world and experience peace and tranquility.
Top guest reviews
Location:
very nice location lovely cottages very clean very friendly and welcoming property managersRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the pool and hot tub a very nice and well maintained and the property is beautiful
7. Cabin with stunning views of towering Redwoods
This cabin is on a hilltop. It comprises a deck with views of towering Redwoods and provides a place to unwind. In the living room, relax on the sofa and switch on the LCD TV. Alternatively, connect the DVD player and watch a movie. There are books for guests who love reading. A dining table is set next to a pair of French doors with views. A ceiling fan hangs directly above. You can slide this door and leave it open, so you can get to the deck and back to the house with ease. Wood paneling in the living room ceiling and other sections of the house is a noticeable design aspect. Besides, it adds to the cabin’s rustic appeal.
Boulder Creek, California, United States
68.15 km (42.4 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural ReserveAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Host:
cynthia was a great host with quick responsehost was excellent and responsivecynthia was a great host and responded quickly with any questions we hadhosts are friendly and great at communicatingcynthia was an awesome host and responded very promptly to all of our questionsLocation:
close to santa cruz and monterey but very peacefulit was a beautifully quiet and remote locationit’s close to big basin and is nice and privatecute shops and nice peopleit's a nice location to lay back and chillCleanliness:
the cabin was clean cozy and had everything i neededthe place was nice and cleanthe cabin itself is clean simple and just what i was looking forvery clean but overall okay for one night stay for my partner and ithe place is cute and cleanRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
its a great small cozy cabin with a beautiful view of nature from the private patiocozy place with a nice balcony where you can enjoy the redwood forestbeautiful view from the porch and cozy indoor spacewe enjoyed watching movies and sitting out in the patio for breakfastlovely deck to sip coffee from great living room to relax at night comfy and quiet bed
8. Timber Ridge Cabin
Escape into the Santa Cruz mountains at this quaint cabin, perfect for a romantic getaway. This cozy cabin is solar-powered and features an open deck from where guests can enjoy stunning views of redwood trees and the surrounding mountains. The cabin features a propane stove and compostable toilet, giving guests a chance to experience rustic living.
Guests have the ease and access to explore the surrounding forest area and the Meyer Lemon Orchard and have fresh produce from the estate’s vegetable garden, orange trees, and fig trees. Guests may also visit the nearby Nisene Marks States Park for some hiking and biking, as well as the Rio Del Mar beach.
Aptos, California, United States
55.69 km (34.7 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural ReserveSuperhostAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Host:
the hosts really care about taking care of the property and the gueststhe hosts were great to work withhostess and host are very friendly and approachingsabrina nico and cal were super friendly and helpfulsabrina and nico were very friendly and welcomingLocation:
nisene marks state park is a short drive away and there are great trailswe would absolutely recommend this placeRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
enjoyed the deck looking out to the redwoods and the outdoor picnic table and chair lounging space availableno wifi or service at the cabin area so be prepared to enjoy being completely unpluggedso if you have usb type c make sure you have an adaptergreat location the cottage was cozy and comfortable
9. Detached studio near Pleasure Point (from USD 195)
Featuring a convenient location near Pleasure Point, this detached studio is perfect for your solo getaway or a romantic retreat with your significant other. It offers a queen-size bed, a fully equipped kitchen, and a sun-drenched patio where you can relax. Amenities such as heating, Wi-Fi, and a smart TV are available in this rental. There is also a soft-top surfboard provided by the host for whenever you want to hit the beach.
Complete your getaway experience by checking out some places of interest nearby. These include Monterey Bay, Capitola Wharf, and Pleasure Point Park.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
nice clean well equipped little placeRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
good experience…the unit has a washer and dryer full kitchen tv comfortable bed
10. Custom guesthouse in a vineyard (from USD 253)
Lindal Cedar is a custom guesthouse that offers a peaceful getaway in a vineyard setting. It is located close to Harvey Bear Park where guests can enjoy a number of biking and hiking trails. Gilroy Premium Outlets and several wineries are also located near the property. With plenty of notable places nearby, guests will have no shortage of things to do during their stay.
This cabin near Santa Cruz features air conditioning and heating. Cooking basics and pantry items are also provided in the kitchen. If you happen to stay during the right season, you can enjoy supplies of fresh eggs as well as delicious fruits provided by the host.
11. Rustic cabin amidst nature (from USD 350)
This Santa Cruz cabin rental is artistically constructed among giant Redwood trees. A creek runs a few meters away from the structure. It has a rustic interior, with a living room in a compact place and boasts a wood-burning stove. Outside, the cabin features two decks, with the upper one being a wrap-around. Relax here, enjoy the fresh air, and appreciate the views while listening to the wind whispering among the Redwoods. Located nearby are nature trails and golf courses.
12. Mt. Hermon Treehouse (from USD 146)
This cabin has a brightly colored interior and boasts plenty of space. The entrance comprises large glass panel double doors. As you step into the living room, notice the comfy couches and beautiful rugs that dot the entire space. There is a gas fireplace in the corner, while the dining table is in a separate room. Moving to the covered verandah, it is a heavenly place with a sky roof and large windows. These aspects contribute to the overall natural lighting. Besides, comfy seats occupy the space, while large windows let in more light. You will love spending time here in a quiet reflection or reading. An outdoor deck with seats provides stunning views.
Top guest reviews
Location:
it was great being close to the state park for hiking and to felton for suppliesfurnished perfectly and the quiet was perfect for usa great place to unplug and just a few minutes away from great surfit’s truly charming however in a perfect locationif you need to just relax and unwind this is the placeRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the cabin was very comfortable and had a lovely view of the redwood trees from every room
13. Getaway Cabin (from USD 235)
This charming cabin has all you need for a relaxing time away from the city noise. It features a unique layout ,with detached upper and lower levels. You can stream shows on Netflix or indulge the little ones in a board game for indoor entertainment. There is free Wi-Fi. Unwind and recharge at the large outdoor yard. One pet is allowed, but additional ones attract a nightly fee. Santa Cruz and its popular beaches are half an hour’s drive away.
Top guest reviews
Host:
i’m happy to say that i absolutely loved that this was kid and pet friendly settingLocation:
it is the perfect locationdriving up to the property is a blast and the location is perfectaccess to santa cruz henry cowell state park and big basin state park was idealwe loved the intensely quiet neighborhood with close proximity to felton restaurants and great natural foods groceryit would’ve been nice to have a sanitary outdoor station for bbq’sCleanliness:
the house was super clean and niceit was peaceful and cleanit was nice and cleanso much room and extremely clean and comfortablethe house is sweet clean and really well equippedRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
deeply comfortable sofa and oversized chair/ottomanmy family also enjoyed the excellent source of wifinice kitchen and outdoor gas grill
14. Tree Top View Cabin (from USD 153)
This cabin oozes comfort and peacefulness at every turn. It is a two-bedroom rental, with a lovely seating area next to a wood-burning stove. A flat-screen TV sits strategically at the corner with a perfect viewing angle. Gather up for a movie night or enjoy streaming stuff on your devices via Wi-Fi. The rooms are neat and well-lit. Outside is a roofed deck furnished with wicker furniture, including a dining table and chairs. Utilize this space when you want to unwind and enjoy the views. Morning or evening coffee also goes down well while seated here.
Top guest reviews
Location:
as advertized cute little place in the red woodsgreat location to explore many parks and do a trip to the beach or boardwalkwe loved the proximity to henry cowell state park and santa cruz beachesthis is an excellent place to go for relaxationRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
chilling in the bedroom patio has it’s fun amazing views properly stocked kitchen with utensils and gearsour stay was absolutely comfortablewash skylightbetter towels positives:loved the deckwell appointed kitchen sofa very comfortablegreat beds beddingattention to decor
15. Tranquility Base (from USD 198)
Experience luxury here and soak in the hot tub located in the yard. The cabin has high ceilings and a front deck with outdoor furniture and a fireplace. There are comfortable couches in the living room, with throw pillows and a carpet. One of the bedrooms at the back has access to the hot tub. The front bedroom has a door that leads to the front deck. Besides, there is a table and chairs that you can use as a workspace. Both bedrooms have flat-screen TVs. While staying here, visit the Felt Commons Park and marvel at its covered bridge.
Top guest reviews
Host:
the home owner was profession and very easy to work withRead more reviewsLocation:
great place to stay in the beautiful woodland paradise near santa cruzgreat place to get away from it allgreat parks close by for hiking/biking for all levels with great scenery
16. Bear Creek Cabin (from USD 173)
This one-bedroom cabin is on a raised surface and has a wrap-around deck. On its roof are solar panels that trap the energy used to power the house. Expansive windows let in natural light, while a wood-burning stove heats the living room. Notice the floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedroom. Slide the glass panel doors that open in the bedroom, and you will be on the furnished deck at the back. Also, this room has a wood-burning stove. The deck is perfect for coffee or quiet reflection and has stunning views of Redwoods below. A footpath leads to the creek below, where you can have peaceful moments in natural settings.
Top guest reviews
Host:
host was extremely responsivei appreciated the clear communication ahead of time from the ownersthe cabin was very clean and the host was quite communicative and helpfulLocation:
wish i could rent this place yearlycan't think of finding a better place to disconnect from lifealso some beautiful wineries close by i'd love to visit on our next stayCleanliness:
the cabin was very clean and had everything we needed from wood to cooking suppliesRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
such a lovely cozy cabin
17. Cabin near downtown Los Gatos
Enjoy all that downtown Los Gatos has to offer with this one-bedroom cabin for up to three. Located in a wooded area near downtown, you are guaranteed convenience in enjoying attractions and events including free jazz concerts with wine and cheese on Wednesday evenings, free music at the park on Friday afternoons, and a farmer’s market on Sundays. Not to mention that Westfield Valley Fair Shopping Mall is only 7.5 mi (12 km) away and San Jose Convention Center is only 9.2 mi (14.8 km) away.
Top guest reviews
Host:
the booking process and response time from the owner was fast and easyjohn was extremely helpful and very prompt in getting back to emails and textsLocation:
downtown is close by and very livelythe cabin is also close to several great hiking trailsthe location next to downtown los gatos is excellent for walking to shopping dining grocery hardware coffee etcoverall a great place for family in a safe and charming neighborhoodCleanliness:
the property is very clean and comfortable enough yet agedi should add that the cottage is clean which is important consideration for meRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
a swivel feature makes it nice if you like to watch tv in bed
Stay amidst the lush redwood forests of Santa Cruz
Looking to reconnect with nature? Unplug from your busy life and noisy cities by taking a vacation in a secluded natural setting. These cabins for rent near Santa Cruz, California, are your remedy.
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