Holiday rentals in Santa Cruz

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Top-rated holiday rentals in Santa Cruz

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Guest favourite
An A-Frame cabin is surrounded by lush greenery, positioned on elevated ground. A stone pathway leads to the entrance, flanked by wooden railings. The cabin features large glass panels on its façade, allowing natural light to flood the interior. A deck with seating overlooks the nature surroundings.
Cabin in Felton
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews

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

Top guest favourite
A cozy, dark green cabin is nestled among towering trees, showcasing a large window and a glass-paneled door. Three steps lead to the entrance, surrounded by a natural landscape of redwoods.
Guest suite in Felton
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 238 reviews

Cozy Coastal Redwood Cabin

Rest and connect in this warm, cozy, and private cabin that is nestled in the redwoods. Only minutes away from Henry Cowell State Park, where you can enjoy world class mountain biking trails, hiking, or swimming in the river. Or, enjoy the beach 15 minutes away. This is a perfect place to refresh in the magic of the Coastal Redwoods. Music fills most nights either from the Felton Music Hall or from the chorus of frogs. And wake up in the mornings to the mist in the trees when the fog rolls in.

Guest favourite
A serene river flows gently through a lush forest, surrounded by vibrant green foliage. Smooth rocks emerge from the water, which reflects the surrounding greenery. The scene conveys a peaceful natural environment, ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Guest suite in Boulder Creek
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 1,067 reviews

Redwood Riverfront Getaway

We are nestled in the beautiful California Redwood forest next to the San Lorenzo River. Guests can enjoy our private guest suite with its own entrance and full bathroom. Our property features tall trees, seasonal river swimming on our private beach, fishing, kayaking, and exploring. We are close to downtown Boulder Creek, minutes away from Santa Cruz, wine tasting, hiking, fine dining, and the coastline. We have no hidden fees and even offer a full return of our cleaning fee. Permit #181307

Top guest favourite
A private garden patio is featured, containing a round table with two chairs. Each chair is accompanied by a throw pillow. A small vase with flowers sits on the table, and colorful signage is visible on the fence in the background.
Place to stay in Santa Cruz
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviews

Melton Beach House. Private entry,space and patio.

Space is not suitable or safe for children under 5 years of age. Great location.We are conveniently a 10-15 minute walk to the Hook and Pleasure Point surf breaks.And in the other direction you have a 15 minute walk down to the adorably charming Capitola village and very lovely beach.There you'll find quaint boutique shops and many restaurants/bar choices along the beach esplanade. With in a 5 minute walk you'll find New Leaf market,Whole foods, Penny's ice cream,and 6 other restaurant's.

Guest favourite
A tranquil garden space features a wooden picnic table surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant orange trees. Various shrubs and plants create a secluded feel, while a stone border adds a natural element to the serene environment.
Guest suite in Santa Cruz
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 1,065 reviews

Birdsong Studio by Beach-Jasmine Gardens

Jasmine Garden Oasis Retreat House—3 block walk to quiet beaches. Ideal for individuals, couples, or families seeking serenity. SC Permit # 231326. Two upstairs independent guest studios inside our home, each with queen bed and extra beds for $25 charge: Jade Studio with private deck, and Birdsong Studio overlooking garden and hot tub. Meditation & QiGong instruction, bicycle rental nearby, allergy-free, healing sessions, low-EMFs--renewing for heart, body & soul. Sunrise/sunset at beach.

Guest favourite
An artistic illustration showcases a house and a bathtub, suggesting a serene retreat. Soft, flowing colors represent water and nature, while the stylized tree adds an element of tranquility to the overall design.
Townhouse in Upper Seabright
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 319 reviews

Theory of Color: A Lazure Space

Welcome to your serene sensory retreat! Tucked away in a tranquil, private location, this charming space features vibrant walls painted with the Waldorf inspired Lazure technique and an outdoor bathtub, embraced by greenery. Unwind, recharge, and awaken to your senses. Built in 1928 and fully modernized, this stylish retreat is bright and inviting. Enjoy easy walks to the beach (0.7 mi), harbor (0.5 mi), boardwalk (1.1 mi), downtown (1.5 mi), Rio Theater (0.5 mi), and UCSC (3 mi).

Top guest favourite
The entrance to the guest suite is framed by lush greenery and decorative pots. A pathway of stones leads to a white door, adorned by charming string lights. The evening sky adds depth to the scene, enhancing the welcoming ambiance of the space.
Guest suite in Santa Cruz
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 601 reviews

Garden Oasis for Guests to Relax, Surf & Adventure

Welcome to our Artistic Garden retreat! Centrally located in the heart of Santa Cruz, 1 mile from Sunny Cove Beach and Pleasure Point. Close to the boardwalk, yacht harbor, Downtown Santa Cruz & Capitola. Enjoy the suite & spacious lush yard, fully furnished, outdoor area . Our 1/2 acre farmhouse lot is a garden oasis with lush palms, proteas, bamboo & succulents weaving throughout. Our garden and private lot have it all! 1 night stay ok when available just ask. No animals allowed.

Top guest favourite
A colorful tiny home is seen surrounded by tall redwood trees. The exterior showcases vibrant blue and yellow walls, contrasted by natural wood planters filled with greenery. Sunlight filters through the trees, enhancing the inviting outdoor space.
Tiny home in Boulder Creek
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 191 reviews

Custom Cabin Retreat in the Redwoods

This retreat offers guests a unique experience of living in a well designed, minimalist space while having all one really needs. From the nautically-inspired curved ceiling w/ skylights to the custom redwood trim, this cozy retreat will inspire. Relax on the private deck with the fire pit, walk to the river or enjoy the local trails thru the towering redwoods. Santa Cruz beaches are just 35 min away, 25 min to Big Basin and Henry Cowell, and 35 min to fine dining in Saratoga.

Top guest favourite
A spacious sleeping area is highlighted by a large bed featuring white bedding. Two windows allow natural light to fill the room, offering views of greenery. A small table with two stools is positioned near the windows, and modern lighting fixtures complement the overall design.
Guest house in Scotts Valley
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 175 reviews

The Hen House Haven

Welcome to The Hen House Haven, a charming retreat where comfort meets modern amenities. Enjoy fresh eggs from our ten friendly hens, though egg availability may vary, especially in winter. Located near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Henry Cowell Redwoods, and scenic hiking trails, our cozy studio is perfect for a relaxing getaway or adventure-filled stay. Embrace the serenity and warmth of staying with us, and make yourself at home. We can't wait to host you!

Top guest favourite
A spacious bedroom features a queen bed with a quilted coverlet and decorative pillows. The room is lit by bedside lamps, with wooden accents and a plush armchair in the corner. A doorway leads to an updated bathroom, and natural light filters through the windows.
Guest suite in Santa Cruz
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 308 reviews

Vintage Charm Close to Downtown and Beaches

This beautifully & recently renovated studio with separate entry and private bathroom is in the middle of everything Santa Cruz has to offer: downtown, beaches, boardwalk, West Cliff Drive, bike paths, etc. are an easy walk or bike-ride. The studio is also a quiet area for remote work. We are pleased to host you and help make your experience great. You may also access the common-space gardens and hot tub in the spa-like back yard (upon request).

Top guest favourite
Guest suite in Felton
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 235 reviews

Redwood Cottage & Hot Tub

Enjoy this quaint, peaceful redwood retreat tucked away in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This small private cottage comes with a private hot tub, outdoor shower, propane fire pit and hammock. You'll be 10 minutes to downtown Felton and 25 minutes to Santa Cruz beaches. The cottage is on a shared property and next door to the main house. Please note there is no indoor shower (outdoor only) and the road is one lane with a steep driveway. Permit #211304

Guest favourite
A light-filled living area features a comfortable gray sofa and a smart TV on a modern stand. French doors open to the outdoors, while a decorative plant adds a touch of greenery. A brown chair and a white rug complete the inviting space.
Guest house in Santa Cruz
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 641 reviews

Santa Cruz Guesthouse Surrounded by Redwoods

Get back in touch with nature in a farmhouse-style property next to abundant woodlands and hiking trails (Permit 181242). It's an airy, skylit space with honey-colored hardwood floors and a well-equipped kitchen. Bathe in a claw-foot tub and relax on a wooden porch. Please note that this house shares the property with the owners who live in the main house, and an Airstream. The property is also serviced by landscapers and pest services.

Popular amenities for Santa Cruz holiday rentals

Quick stats about holiday rentals in Santa Cruz

  • Total holiday rentals

    Explore 1,400 holiday rentals in Santa Cruz

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 125,080 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly holiday rentals

    830 properties offer extra space & child-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly holiday rentals

    Find 380 rentals that welcome pets

  • Holiday rentals with a pool

    100 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    580 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wifi availability

    1,370 of Santa Cruz holiday rentals include wifi 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!

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