Vacation rentals with beach access in Santa Cruz

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 606 reviews

A uniquely designed treehouse is elevated among the trees, showcasing large glass windows and wooden beams. A wooden walkway leads up to the structure, enhancing the connection with the surrounding natural environment.

Treehouse in Aptos

Peaceful Treehouse with Ocean View

Permit 171035 Featured by Sunset Magazine as a “chic escape,” this Peaceful Treehouse-style retreat blends mid-century design with natural materials like wood and stone for a calming, sanctuary feel. Light pours through floor-to-ceiling windows beneath soaring wooden beams, and Japanese-inspired doors add to the architectural charm. Set high in the trees with ocean views, the home offers three elevated decks including one with a hammock. Perfect for relaxing and enjoying the surrounding canopy.

ViewWalkabilityComfort

The living area is adorned with warm wood paneling and features a cozy couch with colorful throw pillows. A glass coffee table sits in the center, while a television is positioned nearby. Natural light filters through the windows, highlighting the inviting atmosphere.

4.79 out of 5 average rating, 700 reviews

Charming cottage in westside SC 2 blks from beach

Gingerbread-like cottage (600 square feet) was built from old growth redwood in 1922. Since remodeled with all the amenities. A private sanctuary, set back and hidden from street. Two block walk to ocean along tree-lined path in a quiet neighborhood on the west side. Serene and tranquil, lovely outdoor deck and garden. Half mile from selection of boutique wine tasting, breweries, and coffee roasters. We apologize for not being able to host children under 5 for safety reasons. 2 night minimum

WalkabilityBeachIndoor spaces

An aerial view of the backyard reveals a spacious layout featuring a hot tub, a covered seating area with lounge chairs, and vibrant blue umbrellas. A play area with a climbing structure and water table is visible, surrounded by lush greenery and landscaped pathways.

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 162 reviews

Oceanview Family Playground

Family-friendly oceanview home at Pleasure Point. This inviting retreat offers a backyard play area, including a water table and climbing structure for the little ones. Enjoy outdoor dining, the BBQ grill, the hot tub, hammocks. Inside, take in two living areas, two en-suite bedrooms, toys, playhouse, and baby amenities. EV charger in garage. Nearby, find great surfing spots, a coastal bike trail, Capitola Village, and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Create memories at your Pleasure Point home!

WalkabilityBeachCleanliness

The view captures the ocean and sandy beach from a spacious deck, framed by tall trees. Clear blue skies and calm waters are visible, while a dining area with wooden chairs is set up on the deck, inviting relaxation and enjoyment of the surroundings.

5 out of 5 average rating, 208 reviews

Beach Front Dream House! Hottub/E-Bikes/Surfboards

Permit# 231467 Incredible modern home just steps from the best beach in all of Santa Cruz! Ocean and sand views, listen to the waves as you sleep on designer beds, cook in the chefs kitchen, and soak in the hot tub. Perfect central location, less than 5 minutes to boardwalk and downtown. 5 minutes to colorful Capitola village. 9 minutes to UC Santa Cruz Campus. 4 Electric bikes, 4 surfboards, and a kayak to take out and play in the waves! Plus the beach is right out front to enjoy!

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4.92 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

Cabin in Boulder Creek

Either Way Hideaway

Relax and enjoy riverside views in our tranquil Santa Cruz Mountains guesthouse. Cozy by our fire pits, take a dip in a private hot tub and enjoy the sounds of the river flow by. Hike Big Basin, Castle Rock and Henry Cowell State Parks. Close to historic downtown Boulder Creek and the Santa Cruz boardwalk, it’s the perfect base for exploring Santa Cruz county. Immerse yourself in of nature while staying connected and comfortable. Either way, you’ll enjoy your stay! SCC Permit #251382

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A serene bedroom is showcased with a spacious bed adorned with a light cover and decorative pillows. A large photo of a pier at sunset decorates the wall above the bed. Two windows and skylights allow natural light to illuminate the room, complemented by bedside lamps.

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 319 reviews

Lower Westside Sanctuary by Natural Bridges Beach

From our family of beach bums to yours: welcome to our newly remodeled, coastal sanctuary on the quiet lower Westside of Santa Cruz. Stroll 5 minutes to Natural Bridges Beach by day. By night, stargaze from the hot tub or gather around the gas fire pit. Wildlife abounds: from our resident hummingbirds and butterflies at home to occasional seal, otter and whale sightings at Natural Bridges. Hungry/thirsty? Stroll 10 minutes to the heart of Santa Cruz’s beer, wine, and foodie scene!

WalkabilityBeachFamily

Place to stay in Santa Cruz

The interior of the yurt showcases a high, circular ceiling with a skylight at the center, allowing natural light to fill the space. A spacious bed and a cozy seating area are surrounded by decorative Moroccan rugs, with colorful accents on the walls and large windows providing views of the surrounding garden.

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 400 reviews

Luxurious 24’ Yurt in beautiful half acre garden

Nestled in the Santa Cruz mountains just 4 miles from the beach, 5 miles to Davenport and 9 miles from Santa Cruz (12 minutes by car) sits a magical Yurt situated in a beautiful private fenced half acre garden in Bonny Doon. Experience all that Santa Cruz has to offer then get away from the noise, traffic and bustle of the city and relax in this quiet and peaceful place situated above the fog line. Guaranteed to meet and likely exceed your expectations Dog, Child, and 420 friendly.

WalkabilityBeachCondition

4.85 out of 5 average rating, 708 reviews

Tiny home in Santa Cruz

Harbor cottage close to the Beach and Boardwalk

*10% off PROMOTION* There are 4 hidden jokes in this listing. After each punch line there is a symbol. Message me with the 4 symbols for a discount. I love a good short joke. This one of kind cottage is said to be on the smallest lot in Santa Cruz and just 2 blocks away from the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor and beautiful Twin Lakes Beach. There are many delicious restaurants, a beautiful walking path and easy access to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. All within your reach.

BeachViewBathroom

The open-concept kitchen and living area feature a clean design with white cabinetry and a blue-tiled backsplash. A large window allows natural light to fill the space, illuminating the gray sofa and wooden coffee table. Four white bar stools are positioned at the kitchen island.

5 out of 5 average rating, 219 reviews

Serene luxury beach bungalow in Pleasure Point

Just steps away from the breathtaking Santa Cruz coast lies Bungalow318. This 1940's bungalow has been meticulously renovated and is ready for your relaxing retreat, romantic getaway, surfing adventure or family vacation. Relax in the open concept family room, enjoy a day at the beach or surfing world-class surf breaks, lounge in the hot tub and spend a cozy evening on the patio lounge in front of a warm fire. The ways to enjoy this special property are endless!

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4.99 out of 5 average rating, 266 reviews

A spacious deck is visible, adorned with modern outdoor furniture and surrounded by lush greenery, creating an inviting outdoor space. Large sliding glass doors lead into a bright interior with a cozy seating area and a fireplace, blending the indoor and outdoor environments.

Home in Aptos

Modern Beach Retreat-Free EV Charging

This open and airy modern home is a 5 minute walk to Rio del Mar beach. Enjoy the clean design, large deck and indoor outdoor living. Numerous outdoor activities at your doorstep including golf, world class surf breaks, and renowned biking and hiking trails in the forest of Nisene Marks. Equipped with high speed internet, a projector and Sonos sound system. Our place comfortably hosts five and is good for couples, business travelers, solo, and families.

BeachViewBiking

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 697 reviews

A private living room features a wooden cabinet and a dark blue armchair beside a window with natural light. A small refrigerator and kettle are visible. A woven rug lies on the wooden floor, with magazines resting nearby, and greenery adds a touch of color.

Home in Upper Seabright

Town-and-Nature

Three beautiful, quiet, private and secure rooms within our home, with separate entrance. PLEASE NOTE: It is part of a home, not entire home as listing heading implies, due to Airbnb's limited choices. Lovely garden with outside sitting area. 20 minute footpath/walk to beach through green belt and harbor, great restaurants nearby including three at the beach, short drive to downtown for live music and arts. Host is German, practices acupuncture.

BeachWalkabilityCheckout

A spacious deck features comfortable adirondack chairs arranged around a fire pit, with the ocean and lagoon visible in the background. Eucalyptus trees provide shade and a natural ambiance, enhancing the serene atmosphere of this outdoor space.