Places to stay near The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 477 reviews

A charming living area features a mix of comfortable seating, including a wicker chair and a sofa. Natural light streams through large windows adorned with fairy lights. A coffee table displays a fresh bouquet, while shelves showcase decorative items, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Guest suite in Aptos

El Nido; a Peaceful, Relaxing, Restorative Retreat

As an artist, I'm deeply interested in aesthetics. I think I've succeeded in creating a beautiful, restful venue for relaxation. The queen size bed overlooks a bird sanctuary over the Valencia Creek watershed. The kitchen includes a fridge stocked with goodies, toaster oven, microwave, coffee pot, French press and cooktop for light cooking. You're welcome to use the oven/stove in the main kitchen with prior arrangements. A backyard gas barbecue is available for heavier cooking (or if you're planning to cook fish!) Hairdryer and shampoo are available in the spacious private bath. Thick terry robes are provided for your comfort, and beach towels and chairs if you decide to spend some time on one of our beautiful beaches. There's a large flat screen smart TV complete with Netflix. Lots of reading material and a writing desk are also here for your use. You have a private entrance with a coded entry. You have a private entrance with a coded entry. Your rooms are private and you have your own porch and you're welcome to use the yards/patios. I share the front house with my partner and our two dogs. We'd love to meet you and perhaps share a cup of coffee or a glass of wine (depending on the time of day!) but will also respect your need/desire for privacy if you prefer. I'm happy to provide any information or amenities that will make your visit more comfortable and enjoyable. This home is close to the beautiful beaches of the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary and the Forest of Nisene Marks, just a mile from Aptos village, south of Santa Cruz and the Boardwalk and north of Elk Horn Slough and The Monterey Bay Aquarium. Parking is easily available on our quiet cut-de-sac. The flagstone path to the left of the property will lead you to a gate and your private porch/entrance. Provide a 4 digit code before you arrive and I'll program the entry for your convenience. No keys to hassle with. Public transit is available one mile from the house. Uber is a popular alternative in our area. We're just minutes away from a thriving downtown scene complete with music venues and restaurants, shopping, art galleries, and the SC Beach Boardwalk. Whale watching, kayaking, cycling and hiking trails are also just minutes away. My place is good for couples, solo adventurers, business travelers, or those looking for a quiet retreat.

4.86 out of 5 average rating, 229 reviews

The modern three-story building features a sleek exterior with large windows, illuminated from within. The garage doors are prominently displayed, framed by planters that add a touch of greenery. Soft lighting highlights the architectural lines as evening approaches.

Flat in Capitola

Capitola Village Beach "Trestle"

TRO #21-0285 This is for 1 unit called "Trestle". There are 2 units that can be rented separately or together Unit #1 "Trestle" and Unit #2 "Riverview". The units are owned by the Architects who designed and built them. Capitola Village is one of the most charming beach towns on the California coast and we are happy to put you right in the heart of it in great accommodations. You are a short walk or bike ride from the beach, bike and surf board rentals, many excellent restaurants and shops.

The living room features large windows that showcase a vibrant sunset over the ocean. Comfortable seating is provided by a mix of sofas and chairs, and a wooden coffee table occupies the center. The high ceiling adds to the spacious feel of the room.

4.85 out of 5 average rating, 189 reviews

Panoramic Ocean Views - in Private Sanctuary

Escape to this serene home atop the Aptos Hills, offering panoramic white-water ocean views, a large open floor plan, and a gourmet kitchen. Wake up to the ocean from the primary bedroom and enjoy your morning coffee on the front decks. The backyard is a sanctuary for hummingbirds and wildlife. Feel worlds away while still close to hiking and the beach. Two-vehicle limit. Enjoy more fun with zero Airbnb fees — we’ve got you covered! Only 2 miles to the beach and close to restaurants and shopping

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 142 reviews

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

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

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 102 reviews

A private yard is surrounded by tall trees, featuring a hot tub with bubbles rising to the surface. A hammock is visible to the side of the yard, alongside two Adirondack chairs. The cabin's entrance is shown, with a window allowing natural light to enter.

Cabin in Boulder Creek

Forest Cabin & Hot Tub

Take it easy in this cozy cabin retreat in the Santa Cruz Mountains. 30 minutes from downtown Santa Cruz and beaches. This charming 400 sq. ft. studio is the perfect setting to disconnect from city life and immerse yourself in the redwoods. The cabin features a queen bed, full bathroom, kitchen & BBQ. The private yard includes a hot tub, propane firepit and hammock to fully relax and unwind. Please note the cabin is on a one way, windy road. There is WiFi but no TV or A/C. SCC Permit# 241449

An open-plan living area features a comfortable couch with floral accents, adjacent to a wood stove. Large windows and a skylight enhance natural light, while a flat-screen TV is positioned nearby. The space is finished with warm carpeting and neutral-toned walls.

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 517 reviews

The Fox's Den A Relaxing 1 Bedroom Redwood Retreat

Relax in your own forest retreat in the beautiful redwoods of Nisene Marks State Park, yet amazingly only 2. 3 miles from Rio Del Mar beach. Permit #181122. You’ll love the cozy fireplace, the views, and it's proximity to Aptos Village. The location is ideal if you want to begin your day with a bike ride or a hike through the forest. Or you may want to take the short drive or cycle to the beach, soak up some sun, catch some surf and listen to the waves splash against the sand until the sunset.

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 590 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

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 sliding 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.

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 465 reviews

Two young goats wearing colorful knitted sweaters are seen foraging in a garden area. The goats, with their distinctive facial markings and playful demeanor, appear to be exploring among the greenery. The vibrant patterns on their sweaters add a touch of charm to the serene natural setting.

Farm stay in Aptos

Kinderwood Farm Stay • Animal & Culinary Adventure

*UPDATE Baby goats & piglets born March 2026* Nestled in an enchanting forest of redwood trees & ferns, lies a treasured, sustainability-focused homestead, waiting for you to enjoy its bounty. This is a one of a kind, immersive culinary & farm adventure with cozy accommodations & unique experiences. Subject to availability, Add-On Activities may include goat milking & feeding baby goats, cheesemaking, sourdough, and soapmaking. Join us for a visit you will remember for a lifetime.

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 583 reviews

A cozy sleeping area features a bed with floral-patterned bedding and plump pillows. A wicker headboard adds texture, while a lamp with a colorful shade illuminates the nightstand. A candle and a magazine are placed on the white nightstand, enhancing the tranquil setting.

Place to stay in Aptos

Aptos Forest Retreat Hot Tub DIY Breakfast #231294

Come and stay with us and relax! Hear the birds sing to you, watch the hummingbirds and BREATHE! Venture out the door and walk in our neighborhood and see old growth redwoods. Let your cares drift away with a glass of wine by the fire.(fire restrictions apply) Take a soak in the hot tub then wrap up in the spa bathrobes. Feeling adventurous? Hike out your door to Nisene Marks State Park. EARLY CHECK FEE OF $45 IS REQUIRED and automatically charged for arrivals before 4:00.

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 193 reviews

A wooden cabin is surrounded by tall redwood trees, featuring a large deck that extends around the building. The exterior showcases natural wood tones, with a chimney visible and a large window that invites light into the interior.

Cabin in Soquel

Redwood Ridge Retreat by the Sea

Unparalleled redwood seclusion at the top of a sunny ridge with a view of Monterey Bay. Just 10 mins to downtown Soquel and 15 mins to the Santa Cruz beaches. 40 mins to Silicon Valley, a rare property with a Big Sur feel close to everything. Vacation permit #191374. Enjoy cozy wood heat or cool shade provided by surrounding redwood and oaks. Extensive decks for outdoor dining, relaxing, yoga, sunbathing, birdwatching! We are happy to answer your questions!

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.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 249 reviews

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.