Santa Cruz County Vacation Rentals, California: house rentals & more

Select from 594 houses, 82 apartments, and other vacation rentals to find the perfect place for your stay in Santa Cruz County. Whether you’re staying in a vacation home with family or friends, you'll have the amenities you expect and more, including air conditioning and WiFi. Whatever you're looking for, you'll be sure to find a rental that has what everyone needs, including a place that's non-smoking or offers accessibility.

Popular Santa Cruz County destinations on Vrbo

Santa Cruz featuring rugged coastline, general coastal views and a beach

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Salty fun in Santa Cruz County

Bring the surfboard wax and the good vibes for that trip to Santa Cruz County vacation rentals. These Californian shacks and beachside pads, facing the spray of the Pacific Ocean, offer a gateway to some of the most celebrated shores in the whole United States. Many come with decks that gaze out across the rollers, while others hide amid the soaring redwoods of the forests. All are a place to chill, catch some waves, hike some clifftops and even check off the bucket-list sights of the Bay Area – it's just to the north.

Sightseeing in and around Santa Cruz County

Do you want to find attractions to visit during your stay? Although it can be tempting to stay in your comfortable vacation rental, you'll want to check out everything that makes Santa Cruz County a fun place to get away. These are some of the top attractions to see, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (6.4 mi / 10.3 km)
Monterey Bay Aquarium (29.7 mi / 47.8 km)
Pasatiempo Golf Course (4.7 mi / 7.6 km)
Roaring Camp Railroads (5.8 mi / 9.3 km)
Seascape Golf Club (6.8 mi / 10.9 km)
Mount Madonna Center (11.9 mi / 19.2 km)

Santa Cruz County and the roaring Pacific Ocean

The name of Santa Cruz County is nothing short of legendary in surf circles. As its rivers and creeks wiggle into the Pacific Ocean, and the wide beaches of Monterey Bay open to the swells, you'll find some seriously gnarly point breaks and hollow tube rides. Of course, you don't need to suit up and hit the waves to make the most of the water. This is also a hotspot for seeing huge humpback whales or catching glimpses of dolphins and porpoises – April to November is best.

Santa Cruz County is breathtaking Cali coastline

There's no question that the Santa Cruz County coastline is the piece de resistance of the region. It ranges from wide Monterey Bay, where turtles, whales and dolphins all splash in the Pacific, to the seal-spotted pebble beaches of Ano Nuevo State Park, with its dunes and boardwalk trails. There are countless surf-washed beaches and cliff-backed coves between them. Inland, you can discover the soaring trees of the Big Basin Redwoods State Park, a wilderness of bobcats and waterfalls, deer and wildflowers.

Transportation to and around Santa Cruz County

The nearest airport is in Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal), located 12.1 mi (19.5 km) from the city center.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Santa Cruz County when booking a vacation rental?

Santa Cruz is among the more in-demand areas to find a vacation home in Santa Cruz County. Looking for some top things to do in this destination? Don't miss Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and University of California, Santa Cruz.

What is the most popular type of vacation rental accommodation in Santa Cruz County?

The most in-demand types of vacation rentals in Santa Cruz County are houses. Searching for something different? Vrbo offers a variety of options to match our guests' requirements, so you'll see vacation properties in lots of sizes and shapes. The perfect fit is waiting for you — grab yours today.

How much does it cost to rent a vacation rental in Santa Cruz County?

The average price for a vacation rental in Santa Cruz County can vary based on factors such as season, property type and length of stay. Whether you prefer a sprawling villa with lots of space or an apartment for just you and your sweetheart, just enter your dates of travel to view stays with amazing value.

How much does it cost to rent a beach house in Santa Cruz County?

When you travel and the size and style of the property will influence the cost of your beachside vacation rental. Put in your Santa Cruz County travel dates to see your options on Vrbo. Can't live without a private pool? Use the filters to select the features and amenities you want in your beach house.

Are there large group vacation rentals in Santa Cruz County?

With 80 vacation rentals that can sleep 10 or more guests in Santa Cruz County, you won't have to keep your invite list short. From fun family vacations to events like Thanksgiving or Christmas parties, Vrbo will help you find a large group rental that fits the occasion.

What are the top attractions for families in Santa Cruz County?

Keeping the kids happy during your vacation in Santa Cruz County is a snap with these fabulous family-friendly attractions:

Roaring Camp Railroads
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Can I find two-bedroom vacation rentals in Santa Cruz County?

Santa Cruz County has 227 two-bedroom vacation rentals for you to select from. Enjoy a vacation home with all the comfort and space you're looking for at a fantastic price on Vrbo.

Are there vacation rentals with WiFi in Santa Cruz County?

Pick from 266 vacation rentals with WiFi in Santa Cruz County. If you want to disconnect from daily life on your escape, but still want to be connected to the internet, these properties have just what you need. Narrow your search by applying the WiFi filter on Vrbo.

How old do you have to be to rent a vacation rental in Santa Cruz County?

The minimum age permitted can vary across properties on Vrbo, so be sure to check the rules of the vacation home in Santa Cruz County you're interested in. But typically, it's 16, 18 or 21.

How long can I rent a vacation rental in Santa Cruz County for?

How long you can rent a vacation rental in Santa Cruz County depends on the property. Simply enter your chosen dates to see a list of options offering extended stays. With many amenities such as kitchens and air conditioning, as well as some offering weekly or monthly discounts, you're sure to discover someplace just right to call your home away from home in Santa Cruz County.