Top 17 Cabins Near Santa Cruz, California - Updated 2024

Nicholas
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 6 min read

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.

Stayed at this property?
Felton, California, United States
58.91 km (36.7 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
242 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cabin 4 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
jamie and paige were so amazing hosts
the host were sweet and very responsive
beautiful cabin the hosts were very welcoming and responsive
jaime was a great host
the hosts were also super quick to respond and accommodating when we had a slight change in plans
Location:
peaceful area and close to hiking trails and stores
awesome place to stay near santa cruz
the location is wonderful - surrounded by redwoods but also a quick drive to santa cruz
we also loved how close some hiking trails were
this house was an ideal place for a birthday getaway
Cleanliness:
this place is clean but does not smell of harsh bleaches and chemicals
jamie's place is gorgeous super clean and aesthetically pleasing
it is a cozy beautiful home tucked in the redwoods & is meticulously clean & very tastefully decorated
the place was clean and cozy the bedroom is so cute
the space was clean cozy and had a variety of amenities
Amenities & Room:
the home is unique and comfortable while the amenities are on par with a luxury hotel
we had a great stay at jamie’s place it exceeded expectations and was very cozy
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?
Carmel Valley, California, United States
34.65 km (21.6 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
cabin 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

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.

Stayed at this property?
Aptos, California, United States
55.87 km (34.8 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
416 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Treehouse 1 Bed 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
lovely and helpful hosts are the added sparkle of delight
the staff was very sweet kind and helpful
she was so friendly and responded to questions we had quickly
thank you for being such a great tour guide and host emberlie :-)
beautiful property and great hosts
Location:
amazing location and beautiful cabin
perfect location for a get away from your busy life
perfect location not far from town but far enough away to feel secluded
wonderful place and location great value
very relaxing place to spend some time
Cleanliness:
very clean and quiet place we loved it
pool and jacuzzi are clean and very good
the treehouse was clean and the property was amazing
you could smell the detergent/fabric softener on them :) the pool and hot tub were clean
the bed was very comfortable the kitchen and shower were clean and very modern
Amenities & Room:
that bed was like sleeping on a cloud
it has a great fully functional kitchen
wonderful grounds great vibes comfortable and beautiful accommodation
the redwood deck bamboo forest pool and hot sauna/cold plunge (highly recommend) were a few of our favorites
the loft was awesome and had plenty of room around the king sized bed
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?
Ben Lomond, California, United States
64.57 km (40.2 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
237 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire guesthouse 1 Bed 2 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
courteous hosts with quick responses
the hosts were super responsive when it came to any questions about the studio/surrounding area
i appreciated the home-like feel and eco friendly mindfulness
i love this little hideaway afraid and michele are wonderful and warm hosts
afrid and michelle are great hosts easy going ready to help with anything you might need
Location:
very cute and cozy location
easy to find location near santa cruz
the location is magnificent for getting away but not being totally far from necessities
i loved the location and tranquility of this place
it's a easy walk to downtown ben lomond
Cleanliness:
otherwise space is clean cute and cozy
pleasant very clean everything i needed
the compost toilet was clean and easy to use
everything was so clean and the bed was incredibly comfortable
it was our first time using a composting toilet and it was easy clean and comfortable
Amenities & Room:
the deck was an awesome place to sit and enjoy the view while having coffee and breakfast
the cabin / studio is cozy with all necessary amenities in a lovely section of the forest
the outdoor deck is stunning and super private - we enjoyed each meal we had at the table
the space itself is cozy and cute with a lot of basic amenities you’d need
the wifi was also really strong which was ideal for the work video calls we had to take
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?

100.85 km (62.7 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
5 reviews  
cabin 3 Guests 0 Bedrooms 0 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 3
Minimum Nights: 5
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

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.

Stayed at this property?

56.83 km (35.4 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
4 reviews  
cabin 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Location:
very nice location lovely cottages very clean very friendly and welcoming property managers
Amenities & Room:
the pool and hot tub a very nice and well maintained and the property is beautiful
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?
Boulder Creek, California, United States
68.15 km (42.4 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
264 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire cabin 2 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
cynthia was a great host with quick response
host was excellent and responsive
cynthia was a great host and responded quickly with any questions we had
hosts are friendly and great at communicating
cynthia was an awesome host and responded very promptly to all of our questions
Location:
close to santa cruz and monterey but very peaceful
it was a beautifully quiet and remote location
it’s close to big basin and is nice and private
cute shops and nice people
it's a nice location to lay back and chill
Cleanliness:
the cabin was clean cozy and had everything i needed
the place was nice and clean
the cabin itself is clean simple and just what i was looking for
very clean but overall okay for one night stay for my partner and i
the place is cute and clean
Amenities & Room:
its a great small cozy cabin with a beautiful view of nature from the private patio
cozy place with a nice balcony where you can enjoy the redwood forest
beautiful view from the porch and cozy indoor space
we enjoyed watching movies and sitting out in the patio for breakfast
lovely deck to sip coffee from great living room to relax at night comfy and quiet bed
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?
Aptos, California, United States
55.69 km (34.7 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
85 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cabin 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
the hosts really care about taking care of the property and the guests
the hosts were great to work with
hostess and host are very friendly and approaching
sabrina nico and cal were super friendly and helpful
sabrina and nico were very friendly and welcoming
Location:
nisene marks state park is a short drive away and there are great trails
we would absolutely recommend this place
Amenities & Room:
enjoyed the deck looking out to the redwoods and the outdoor picnic table and chair lounging space available
no wifi or service at the cabin area so be prepared to enjoy being completely unplugged
so if you have usb type c make sure you have an adapter
great location the cottage was cozy and comfortable
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?

50.25 km (31.3 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
4 reviews   Wifi Available
cabin 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 0
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
nice clean well equipped little place
Amenities & Room:
good experience…the unit has a washer and dryer full kitchen tv comfortable bed
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?

71.54 km (44.5 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
4 reviews   Wifi Available
cabin 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

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.

Stayed at this property?
Felton, CA, US
8 Guests 3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

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.

Stayed at this property?
Felton, CA, US
60.29 km (37.5 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
32 reviews  
cabin 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Location:
it was great being close to the state park for hiking and to felton for supplies
furnished perfectly and the quiet was perfect for us
a great place to unplug and just a few minutes away from great surf
it’s truly charming however in a perfect location
if you need to just relax and unwind this is the place
Amenities & Room:
the cabin was very comfortable and had a lovely view of the redwood trees from every room
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?
Felton, CA, US
66.27 km (41.2 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
135 reviews  
cabin 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Host:
i’m happy to say that i absolutely loved that this was kid and pet friendly setting
Location:
it is the perfect location
driving up to the property is a blast and the location is perfect
access to santa cruz henry cowell state park and big basin state park was ideal
we loved the intensely quiet neighborhood with close proximity to felton restaurants and great natural foods grocery
it would’ve been nice to have a sanitary outdoor station for bbq’s
Cleanliness:
the house was super clean and nice
it was peaceful and clean
it was nice and clean
so much room and extremely clean and comfortable
the house is sweet clean and really well equipped
Amenities & Room:
deeply comfortable sofa and oversized chair/ottoman
my family also enjoyed the excellent source of wifi
nice kitchen and outdoor gas grill
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?
Felton, CA, US
66.68 km (41.5 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
148 reviews  
cabin 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Location:
as advertized cute little place in the red woods
great location to explore many parks and do a trip to the beach or boardwalk
we loved the proximity to henry cowell state park and santa cruz beaches
this is an excellent place to go for relaxation
Cleanliness:
the place was clean and wonderful
the place was clean and had everything we needed
Amenities & Room:
chilling in the bedroom patio has it’s fun amazing views properly stocked kitchen with utensils and gears
our stay was absolutely comfortable
wash skylightbetter towels positives:loved the deckwell appointed kitchen sofa very comfortablegreat beds beddingattention to decor
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?

67.65 km (42.1 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
72 reviews   Wifi Available
cabin 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 1
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Host:
the home owner was profession and very easy to work with
Location:
great place to stay in the beautiful woodland paradise near santa cruz
great place to get away from it all
great parks close by for hiking/biking for all levels with great scenery
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?

75.03 km (46.7 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
93 reviews  
cabin 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Host:
host was extremely responsive
i appreciated the clear communication ahead of time from the owners
the cabin was very clean and the host was quite communicative and helpful
Location:
wish i could rent this place yearly
can't think of finding a better place to disconnect from life
also some beautiful wineries close by i'd love to visit on our next stay
Cleanliness:
the cabin was very clean and had everything we needed from wood to cooking supplies
Amenities & Room:
such a lovely cozy cabin
Read more reviews

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.

Stayed at this property?
Los Gatos, California, United States
78.46 km (48.8 mi) from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille
cabin 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Top guest reviews
Host:
the booking process and response time from the owner was fast and easy
john was extremely helpful and very prompt in getting back to emails and texts
Location:
downtown is close by and very lively
the cabin is also close to several great hiking trails
the location next to downtown los gatos is excellent for walking to shopping dining grocery hardware coffee etc
overall a great place for family in a safe and charming neighborhood
Cleanliness:
the property is very clean and comfortable enough yet aged
i should add that the cottage is clean which is important consideration for me
Amenities & Room:
a swivel feature makes it nice if you like to watch tv in bed
Read more reviews

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.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Nicholas Muiruri is a seasoned travel writer known for his love of adventure and the great outdoors. He's a nature enthusiast with a cheerful and outgoing personality. His DNA is infused with a...Read more

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