
Holiday houses in Santa Cruz
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Quick stats about holiday rentals in Santa Cruz

Total holiday rentals
Explore 1,480 holiday rentals in Santa Cruz

Verified guest reviews
Over 133,260 verified reviews to help you choose

Family-friendly holiday rentals
840 properties offer extra space and kid-friendly amenities

Pet-friendly accommodation
Find 410 rentals that welcome pets

Holiday rentals with a pool
120 properties feature pools

Rentals with dedicated workspaces
700 properties have a dedicated workspace

Wi-Fi availability
1,470 of Santa Cruz holiday rentals include Wi-Fi access

Popular amenities for guests
Guests love Beachfront, Self check-in and Gym across Santa Cruz rentals

4.8 Average rating
Santa Cruz stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.8 out of 5!
Top-rated holiday rentals in Santa Cruz
Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

Santa Cruz A-Frame
This unique A-Frame cabin, in a quiet mountain neighborhood with private creek access, was handbuilt in 1965 and remodeled in the summer of 2024. Now a little slice of heaven on the creek in the redwoods. *5-10 min to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Roaring Camp Railroad, Loch Lomond Recreation Area, the Trout Farm Inn, Quail Hollow Ranch + Felton stores. *20 min to Santa Cruz, beach + Boardwalk. *1 min to Zayante Creek Market (EV charger) Find us on social: Insta @SantaCruzAFrame

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

Beach Hill Hideaway - Steps to Beach & Boardwalk
Escape to Beach Hill Hideaway, a bright 2,000 sq ft, 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Santa Cruz. Perfect for families and friends, it’s just steps from the Beach Boardwalk, Wharf, and downtown. One side of a duplex, it shares one wall with neighboring Unit A while offering a private entrance and outdoor spaces. Enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, free parking, EV charger, A/C, outdoor shower, BBQ, fire pit, Roku TV, piano, books, games, yoga mats, and workspace. Walk everywhere from this prime location!

Contemporary Seabright Beach House
Steps from the sand, this contemporary Seabright beach home is the perfect upscale beach getaway. The home features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and sleeps 6 comfortably. Master bedroom features a king bed and private bath with deep oval soaking tub. Two guest rooms feature a queen bed and two twin beds. The living area is tastefully decorated and thoughtfully appointed with push button fireplace, large 4k TV, Jambox, PS4, etc. Did we mention the living area has a direct view of the beach and ocean?

Steps to Capitola Beach♦King Bed♦EVCharger♦Pets OK
Recently renovated with hardwood floors & stainless steel appliances. Spend your next beach getaway in the heart of the Capitola Village, a 3 minute walk to the beach, restaurants & shopping. This lovely 2-bedroom house has a private balcony w/a BBQ & sleeps up to 6. Level 2 EV charger in garage. Convenient Amenities Include: *Self check-in *Wireless Internet *Dog Friendly - 1 dog (40lbs +/- max) *Parking for 1 car in the attached garage (w/EV Charger) *Roku TV with Netflix, Disney+, YouTube

Capitola Village Wind + Sea Home
Our beautifully renovated 2 bedroom (Both upstairs) and 2 full bathrooms (One on the ground floor and one on the upper floor) along with a ground floor plush queen sleeper sofa and ground floor great room with dining for 7 plus a bar table separating the kitchen from the living room is in the perfect location. Walk to the beach, shops, restaurants, or a nice walk along the river. We are right in the Capitola Village. We hope you enjoy your stay. If you have questions, we respond promptly.

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!

Charming Light-Filled Carriage House Apartment
Our 1928 carriage house apartment is walking distance to the Boardwalk, beach, wharf, basketball stadium, and downtown. Cowells and Main Beaches, Steamers Lane, Boardwalk, wharf, and West Cliff Drive (path along the ocean) are all a quick 5 min walk from our house. The apartment is located in a private garden setting, away from the main street, behind our home. There is a separate dedicated garden space for you to use. We hope you will love this historical neighborhood as much as we do!

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!

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!

Beach View Cottage - Hot Tub
Gorgeous, newly remodeled, home with amazing views of the ocean, beach, and lagoon. Hot tub, bikes, surfboards, kayak. Everything you could possibly want for a Santa Cruz trip in a spectacular setting VR PERMIT # 191354 Just 200 yards from the beach, this tranquil beach view cottage is your perfect beachside escape. Located on a quiet, private street in Pleasure Point, this charming and newly updated two-story home offers stunning ocean views.

Sunny Seabright Beach House
Sunny beach house located in Midtown, Santa Cruz. Amazing location with a five minute walk to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Just a few blocks from Seabright Beach, the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor and some of the best local restaurants and breweries in town. The home boasts a well-furnished rooftop deck, a beautiful open floor plan, and a fully equipped kitchen. This house is cozy, bright, and inviting. You will surely love your stay here!
Popular amenities for Santa Cruz holiday rentals
Stay near Santa Cruz's top sights
Other great holiday rentals in Santa Cruz

Sea Otter Cottage in Santa Cruz!

Luxury garden villa w/ hot tub and game room

Modern Beach Retreat-Free EV Charging

Welcome to Harbor House. Your Favorite Home at the Beach.

Sunny Cottage + Hot Tub near UCSC

Pleasure Point Beach House!

Sunlit Surf House 3 BR/2BA Downtown +Walk To Beach

Sunny Harborside Bungalow
When is the best time to visit Santa Cruz?
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. price | $415 NZD | $419 NZD | $454 NZD | $459 NZD | $481 NZD | $553 NZD | $589 NZD | $575 NZD | $474 NZD | $442 NZD | $446 NZD | $461 NZD |
| Avg. temp | 10°C | 12°C | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C | 20°C | 20°C | 20°C | 18°C | 13°C | 10°C |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to stay in Santa Cruz?
Many travelers choose vacation rentals near the Beach Boardwalk, Downtown, or the Westside to access cafes, shops, and ocean views. Pleasure Point and Capitola areas are often recommended for their local atmosphere and coastal charm.
What are the best things to do in Santa Cruz with kids?
Children can explore the Beach Boardwalk amusement park, stroll through the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, or enjoy nature in local state parks. Friendly beaches are great for sand play and gentle surf.
What are some of the best things to do in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has scenic beaches to explore, lively downtown shops and eateries, and fun along the Beach Boardwalk. Nearby, wander through redwood forests in state parks for a change of scenery.
How is the weather in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has mild weather, with winters around 42–65°F (6–18°C) and rainy periods, while summers are drier and comfortably warm near 56–78°F (13–25°C). Light layers and sun protection are useful throughout the year.
What are the best places to visit in Santa Cruz?
Explore the Beach Boardwalk, visit Natural Bridges State Beach for tide pools, and stroll through Downtown's shops. Locally rooted spots like the Santa Cruz Wharf and nearby redwood parks are frequently suggested.
What are some hiking trails in Santa Cruz?
Wander forested paths in Wilder Ranch State Park or Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park for redwood scenery. Pogonip and the Byrne-Milliron Forest are also appreciated for nature walks.
What are some family activities we can do in Santa Cruz?
Families often explore the Beach Boardwalk, walk the Santa Cruz Wharf, or discover marine life at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Local parks and beaches are popular for picnics and nature play.
What are some of the best day trip ideas from Santa Cruz?
Explore the laid-back village atmosphere in Capitola, hike in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, or discover art galleries in the nearby coastal town of Davenport. Monterey and its renowned aquarium are frequently suggested for families.
Are there any pet friendly accommodations available in Santa Cruz?
Many vacation rentals in areas like Westside, Midtown, and Pleasure Point welcome pets. Leashed dogs are also allowed on certain local trails and beaches.
What are some local tips for visiting Santa Cruz?
Locals often suggest arriving early at popular beaches, bringing layers for changing weather, and supporting independent shops and cafés in Downtown. Remember to check public transit and parking signs, especially during summer events.
What is Santa Cruz known for?
Santa Cruz is known for its distinctive surf culture, the historic Beach Boardwalk, and redwood forests in nearby state parks. The city has a vibrant arts scene and locally rooted farmers markets.
What are the best hidden gems to explore in Santa Cruz?
Locals suggest the tide pools at Natural Bridges State Beach, tranquil walks at Pogonip, and browsing small galleries and cafes in Midtown. Wilder Ranch State Park's coastal trails are considered quieter than main beach spots.
What are the best foods to try in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has locally caught seafood, wood-fired pizza, and fresh produce from farmers markets. Sourdough bread, fish tacos, and seasonal fruit desserts are often recommended for visitors.
What should I bring for a trip to Santa Cruz?
Pack light layers for shifting coastal temperatures, comfortable shoes for walking or hiking, and sun protection. A reusable water bottle and beach blanket make exploring outdoor spaces easier.
What is the nightlife in Santa Cruz like?
Santa Cruz has a relaxed nightlife with live music, craft breweries, and social cafés in areas such as Downtown and Westside. Late-night bites, dancing, and community events are frequently suggested.
What are the most popular events or festivals in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has the Wharf to Wharf Race during summer, as well as the Santa Cruz Film Festival and the Beach Boardwalk’s summer concerts. The First Friday art walk draws locals and visitors to downtown galleries and creative spaces.
Are there family friendly vacation rentals in Santa Cruz?
Family-friendly vacation rentals are found throughout Santa Cruz, especially near beaches, downtown, and residential neighborhoods. Listings often include amenities such as kitchens and extra space for groups.
When is the best time to visit Santa Cruz?
Late spring through early fall is often recommended for fewer rainy days and warmer temperatures. This season features outdoor events and lively beach activity.
Destinations to explore
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- Stanford University
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Santa Cruz Beach
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
- Capitola Beach
- Carmel Beach
- SAP Center
- Levi's Stadium
- Carmel Beach
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
- Rio Del Mar Beach
- Pebble Beach Golf Links
- California’S Great America
- Seacliff State Beach
- Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park
- Asilomar State Beach
- Big Basin Redwoods State Park
- Montara Beach
- Winchester Mystery House
- Natural Bridges State Beach
- Googleplex
- Twin Lakes State Beach
- Manresa Main State Beach
- Seabright Beach
- Things to do Santa Cruz
- Things to do Santa Cruz County
- Cultural tours Santa Cruz County
- Outdoors Santa Cruz County
- Things to do California
- Art workshops California
- Landmarks California
- Flying California
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- Wildlife California
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- Museums California
- Outdoors California
- Cultural tours California
- Shopping and fashion California
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- Workouts California
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- Architecture California
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