Santa Cruz, California, is home to several state parks and stunning beaches, the latter being its selling point. Many travelers come here to enjoy a lot of things to do including watersports such as sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and surfing. Places such as Natural Bridges State Beach and Santa Cruz Wharf are tourist magnets. Besides its beaches, this coastal city also has plenty of redwood groves to diversify its natural landscapes. Friendly and laid-back locals complete the scene, making Santa Cruz a welcoming hotspot for all travelers. If you don’t have any idea where to stay in this great beachside getaway, continue reading for the best Airbnb vacation rentals in and near Santa Cruz, CA.
What to look forward to:
- Offering endless fun, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is chock-full of facilities such as mini golf courses, thrilling rides, arcades, the spooky Fright Walk, laser tag, and more. You'll also find amazing eateries offering everything from filling meals to delicious wine.
- Those interested in watersports should check out Surfing Museum, which has photographs, surfboards, and other artifacts covering over 100 years of surfing history in the city.
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 02, 2024.
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1. Cozy beach bungalow with bunk beds (from USD 89)
This one-bedroom bungalow is just steps away from the beach in Santa Cruz’s Seabright community. You’ll find plenty to do within walking distance, including some of the best places to eat, the Santa Cruz Nature Museum, the boardwalk, and the yacht harbor.
Inside, the cozy bedroom features a bunk bed setup and a bathroom off to the side. The living room and dining area are conveniently located, and the back patio provides the perfect place to relax and listen to the waves. Note that there’s no washer or dryer, but there’s a laundromat nearby. While there’s no dedicated parking or driveway, there’s free street parking available.
2. Cozy garden suite with a private entrance (from USD 223)
Experience ultimate privacy in the heart of Santa Cruz at this peaceful garden suite. Relax in the king bed, complete with a comfy gel top and 100% cotton sateen sheets. Extra guests can use the air mattress.
Stocked with appliances and breakfast items, the kitchen includes filtered water, coffee, tea, cream, and sugar. Enjoy the outdoor garden sitting area, flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi, and complimentary toiletries, as well as an iron and ironing board. The place has its own entrance and side gate access.
3. Elegant suite with a hot tub (from USD 257)
Boasting a relaxing hot tub, this beachfront Airbnb in Santa Cruz is perfect for some R&R. This elegant guest suite can easily sleep a maximum of three guests. The rental comes with charming and well-lit interiors, featuring one comfortable bedroom with a double bed and a single bed as well as a spotless bathroom.
It has a spacious deck surrounded by lush trees and is equipped with cozy seating areas, so you can relax outdoors. A bathtub is also available in the private bathroom for a rejuvenating soak. You can use the bikes on the premises to explore the area.
4. Charming and modern home with a backyard (from USD 150)
This Santa Cruz vacation rental is in a strategic location, just minutes away from both the iconic boardwalk and the beach. The large and welcoming living room will surely make you feel right at home. There are plenty of plush seats, an indoor fireplace, and a large TV, so you can gather everyone for a toasty movie night. The sofa can then be used as an additional bed that can accommodate 2 more people.
Feel free to use the well-appointed kitchen to cook up a delicious meal for everyone. And you can even make use of the washer and dryer to make sure your clothes are fresh and clean. When you’re feeling sleepy, head into the roomy bedroom and fall asleep with ease on the large and plush bed.
The home also has a big and clean bathroom that comes with a humongous bathtub so you can have a relaxing soak. And, to top it all off, head out to the garden to enjoy a bout of cloud gazing or to just admire the beautifully maintained area.
5. Loft-style apartment with a balcony (from USD 436)
Located to many points of interest and essential establishments, this Airbnb vacation rental is a loft-style apartment with modern furnishing and cathedral ceilings. Its one bedroom features one queen bed that can accommodate up to two guests, ideal for a couple or a solo traveler. On the ground floor, you’ll find an open-plan living space that comes with a functional kitchen with a breakfast bar, a dining set-up, and a cozy sitting area. You’ll also have a balcony with outdoor seating and a yard, where you can roam freely.
6. Independent studio with a lovely garden (from USD 122)
This blissful, relaxing retreat house offers you naturally well-lit rooms, a fully stocked kitchen, a sunny deck, a fabulous selection of books, a beautiful Zen garden and close access to the beach and the best cafes in town. The loft space is ideal for anyone looking for an escape from the city to enjoy a relaxing and mind rejuvenating getaway. Sip a cup of coffee in the balcony, watching the birds flutter around or sit in the garden and get your mind, body and soul rejuvenated in this peaceful, serene retreat.
7. Stylish bungalow (from USD 221)
Situated in a safe and quiet neighborhood, this attractively designed house has amenities and facilities that will provide you with all the comforts of home. Designed and managed with the guest’s privacy as the top priority, this beach house is recommended for small families and couples looking to spend some quality time together. The patio in the house with seating arrangements, plants and flowers is a wonderful place to relax and unwind.
8. Cozy hideaway with nature views (from USD 79)
For a secluded and private getaway, this pet-friendly Airbnb in Santa Cruz will definitely offer that and more. It looks boring on the outside, but the interior is surprisingly spacious and simply decorated. It comes with 4 beds: a regular full-sized bed, a futon couch that folds out into another full-sized bed, and a trundle bed with two twin mattresses.
You’re located away from civilisation and are instead surrounded by a beautiful view. You’re also near a trail that will eventually lead you to some hills and the ocean, so take some time to explore. Then, after your explorations, you can get clean in the showering area.
9. Quaint mushroom dome in the woods (from USD 148)
This adorable dome home is one of the best Airbnbs in Santa Cruz, and we can definitely see why! Hidden amongst the tall trees, you’ll feel as though you’re living at the top of the world.
The small living-cum-dining area welcomes you into the home. It’s compact yet comfortable, and the sofa in the room can also double up as a single bed. Feel free to cook in the small kitchen, where you can whip up a basic but delicious meal. There’s also the small but mighty bathroom, which is fully equipped so you can go about your daily business comfortably. Note the the bathroom door is actually a curtain. How quirky!
Climb up the ladder in the kitchen to access the loft bedroom. It’s surprisingly spacious and the bed is extremely plush, so you can definitely fall asleep easily here. There’s also a deck with an outdoor dining area, bench, and grill, so you can have an outdoor cookout!
10. Beachside cottage with a sauna (from 139 USD)
The warm and welcoming cottage is located in a private and quiet neighbourhood, making it a perfect vacation rental for a relaxing getaway. To make things even better, it’s only a quick trip away from the world-renowned beaches.
Sit back, relax, and watch your favourite television programmes in the bright and cosy living room. There are also two bedrooms in total, with one having a large and plush bed and some storage space. The other bedroom has a clear coastal theme, is equally as comfortable, and also comes with an office table for you to complete some work.
There’s also a vibrant and clean bathroom where you can have a nice, warm soak in the bathtub. Or head out and make use of the private sauna on the lot! It’s extremely fun and you’re sure to be relaxed once you step out of it.
Tasteful Cottage By the Ocean
Address: Santa Cruz, California, United States (see map)
Price: from 139 USD
Number of Guests: 4
11. Secluded garden sanctuary best for couples (from 149 USD)
If you want to be located away from Santa Cruz but still be close enough to visit, this lovely garden sanctuary is perfect for a romantic getaway. The living room is humongous and has plenty of comfortable seats for you to lounge about and watch TV.
The bedroom is comfortable and lies behind some privacy screens, so you can sleep like a baby in the quiet and peaceful bedroom. After a long day out, you can make use of the bright and roomy bathroom. It comes with all the basic essentials like towels and shampoo, so you can go about your daily business and get washed easily.
Also, how about grabbing the complimentary bottle of wine and hanging out in the beautifully maintained garden?
SECRET GARDEN SANCTUARY Rio Del Mar
Address: Aptos, California, United States (see map)
Price: from 149 USD
Number of Guests: 2
12. Peaceful retreat with bay views (from 225 USD)
If you are in need of a quiet getaway, this relaxing and tranquil Airbnb loft in the woods, 15 miles away from Santa Cruz, is perfect. You can disconnect from technology too. This vacation rental even comes with some homemade meals delivered to your door!
You’re welcome to prepare and cook a meal in the open, modern and well-appointed kitchen. And you can read a book in the bright nook next to a large window.
You can then choose one of the two bedrooms. They’re both well decorated and equally as comfortable, so you will be able sleep restfully in both of them. And if you’re in this home on a clear day, you can head out to the deck and have a lovely view of Monterey Bay.
A Loft in the Woods
Address: Corralitos, California, United States (see map)
Price: from 225 USD
Number of Guests: 3
13. Oceanside haven with a roof deck (from 280 USD)
This beach house in Santa Cruz is located close to several beautiful beaches, which are ideal for surfing and watersports. There’s a roomy and contemporary kitchen that comes fully equipped with everything you’ll need to easily cook a meal. There’s also a laundry room so you can wash your clothes when you need to.
There are two bedrooms that are wonderful and cosy. The master bedroom is bright and comes with a large and plush bed, so you won’t have any problems falling asleep. The second bedroom may be smaller, but it still is equally as comfortable. It also comes with some storage space to put your belongings away.
There are also 2 more beds available. One is in the loft space, which has a queen-sized sleeper sofa. The other one is in the living-cum-bedroom, which comes with a full-sized sleeper sofa. This room also opens up to the backyard patio.
Head up to the roof deck where you can lounge back on the giant chairs and catch up on your tan. It’s also so high up that you can enjoy an unparalleled view of the sea.
Surf & Beach House Retreat Oasis
Address: Santa Cruz, California, United States (see map)
Price: from 280 USD
Number of Guests: 8
14. Mountainside getaway home with hot tub (from 295 USD)
If you want to have a private retreat away from the beach, consider this beautiful Airbnb home located in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The roomy and bright living room is fairly welcoming, and beckons you to just spend the day indoors with your family or friends while watching TV.
There are two cosy bedrooms in this home. The master bedroom is simply decorated but comes with a large and plush bed to ensure that you’ll have a great night’s sleep. The second bedroom is smaller, but is still equally as comfortable.
You can then treat yourself by having a warm soak in the bathroom’s hot tub, or you could head out to the deck and have a soak in the hot tub, be it day or night!
Beautiful Mountain Getaway, Hot Tub
Address: Santa Cruz, California, United States (see map)
Price: from 295 USD
Number of Guests: 4
15. Lovely apartment for three
Ideal for up to three guests, this cozy rental is equipped with one bedroom and one full bathroom. The colorful interior boasts a cheery vibe and is uniquely decorated, adding to its charm. It is situated just a short walk from the beach and several restaurants. You can also cook your own meals in the fully equipped kitchen if you do not feel like heading out. Pets are welcome here, and free WiFi is offered for convenience.
Santa Cruz, California, United States
5.1 km (3.2 mi) from The Mystery SpotAccommodates: 2
16. Beautiful home with stunning views
This beautiful bungalow offers stunning water views from the deck and can comfortably accommodate up to four guests. It features one cozy bedroom and one and a half baths. If you prefer to cook your own delicious meals, you can take advantage of the fully equipped kitchen.
The property is a short walk from the beach and the town center, so you can conveniently access numerous shopping and dining options. Do note that this rental is available for monthly stays only.
Santa Cruz, California, United States
5.69 km (3.6 mi) from The Mystery SpotSuperhost
Accommodates: 4
17. Vibrant home with panoramic ocean views
If you want to stay just steps away from the beaches, but still crave some solitude, this Santa Cruz beach rental is perfect as it’s located a fair bit away from downtown Santa Cruz. The bright and colourful living room will put you in such a great mood, so you can watch TV happily and comfortably.
From the dining table, you’ll have panoramic views of the beach, so you can dine with unbelievable views around you. The home also has two bedrooms. They’re both roomy, bright, and simply decorated. They also have comfortable beds in them so you can fall asleep peacefully.
And, if you feel like you need to keep fit even during your vacation, the property has a workout zone. Make use of any of the exercise machines and exercise while looking out at the wonderful views.
Santa Cruz, California, United States
8.32 km (5.2 mi) from The Mystery Spot
18. Private backyard cottage
Despite being located in the owner’s beautiful backyard, this cottage apartment in Santa Cruz is private so you’ll be able to have a quiet getaway. One thing to take note of is that there isn’t any Wi-Fi on the property, but that can be a benefit because you can spend time being disconnected from the web.
There’s a simple but quaint living room to hang out in. And if you’re hungry, you can whip up a meal in the large and modern kitchen. You can then retreat into the roomy bedroom and fall asleep comfortably and easily.
Santa Cruz, California, United States
6.07 km (3.8 mi) from The Mystery SpotAccommodates: 2
Sensational Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is a beautiful city and a vibrant vacation destination that draws in tourists from all over. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a private and meaningful vacation. These are just some of the best vacation rentals on Airbnb that offer great amenities and a private space for you to retreat to after a long day. If you’re in the mood for a beach getaway, keep these Airbnbs in Santa Cruz in mind.
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