Vacation Rentals by Owner

Terrific Coastal Get-away

Guest: Cindy B.
Date of Stay: 03/23/12 Review Submitted: 04/03/12

This was our second visit to this lovely home - and we hope to return. The home is spacious, bright, nicely appointed, clean, well-maintained, and very comfortable. Information provided by the owners was accurate and helpful. We enjoyed the well-equipped kitchen and BBQ. The large flat screen TV was perfect for movie viewing. And the location is ideal - minutes from the beach and a short drive to other points of interest such as the Forest of Nisene Marks. Monterey, Carmel and Point Lobos are not far away. The neighborhood is very quiet and peaceful. And the tennis courts and pool are steps away. We always enjoy nearby Palapas and Bittersweet restaurants. It is the perfect spot for a restful vacation. We look forward to future visits.

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Incredible getaway with beautiful views!

Guest: Katy T.
Date of Stay: 01/21/12 Review Submitted: 01/22/12

My husband and I recently stayed at this vacation rental with family and friends and were wowed by it's beautiful views, lovely decor, quiet location, and spacious layout. There were a total of five of us staying at the townhouse, and I feel that we had more than ample space for our numbers. All of the rooms were very tastefully furnished with gorgeous (and comfortable!) furniture, and all rooms were extremely clean. We thoroughly enjoyed the view of the ocean from the deck while sipping our coffee in the morning and loved the fact that we could walk five minutes down a path to get to the beach! This place had all the bells and whistles- a large selection of dishes to use, top of the line appliances, a flat-screen TV, washer and drier, and even a pool table and foosball table! Perfect place for a family or group of friends to hang out for a week or weekend. Nearby Capitola and Santa Cruz (10-15 minute drive) provided us with a wide variety of charming shops and restaurants to visit, and the neighborhood itself offered a pool, hot tub, and tennis courts that were all top-notch. I would recommend this place to anybody looking for a beautiful, relaxing spot to vacation!

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magic dreamer

Guest: Sardinicus (Astoria, Oregon)
Date of Stay: 01/16/12 Review Submitted: 03/29/12

The owners have a beautiful home overlooking the Monterey Bay in a quiet neighborhood next to a peaceful park. The location and tranquil setting were ideal for our requirements. The natural beauty and wildlife on the south side of the home was inspiring. Large horned owls nested and hooted every evening and the mourning doves and california quail could be heard in the mornings. It was very relaxing to be able to walk to the beach from the home. We were able to cook wonderful meals just as we would at home. I guess my only suggestion would be to have netflix streaming instant movies available. The owners were very accomadating in showing the property and gracious in all regards.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great property and location

Guest: Jacob (Denver, CO )
Date of Stay: 01/12/12 Review Submitted: 01/23/12

We spent four nights here a few weekends ago - great weather and location, and very accessible to the tourist areas of Santa Cruz while still maintaining a rural feel. Beach was only a five minute walk, and the pool and hot tub were great. Unit was spacious with nearly every amenity you could imagine. Would highly recommend this to anybody vacationing in and around Santa Cruz as an alternative to the busier tourist hotels

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

New Year Getaway

Guest: Jeri (Mountain View, Ca., USA)
Date of Stay: 12/31/10 Review Submitted: 01/17/11

We spent New Year's weekend with 9 people staying at the house. Lot's of room and privacy was not a concern. Long walks on the beach and a cozy fireplace were a great combination. On a rainy afternoon we took the drive to Monterey and visited the aquarium. It's less that an hours drive. We'll definately plan a return trip.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great Coastal Get-a-way!

Guest: Todd (Redwood City, CA)
Date of Stay: 12/31/10 Review Submitted: 01/04/11

We just had a wonderful New Year Eve / Roomies Reunion weekend at the Blue Dolphin condo. When we walked in we were so surprised that this rental was well appointed, clean and everything worked. Usually rentals have someones old leftover furniture and what looks like a collection of plates and silver from Goodwill but not here. The kitchen was new with a spacious fridge to handle all the goodies that eight people brought, good cookware and a great view from the kitchen/breakfast nook area. (Living room too!) There's even a great 50" flat screen and stereo, not to mention the pool table and foosball table. The owners must really care about this place as there were helpful labels on lightswitches and other places so we didn't feel we were bumbling around trying to figure out things. The walk down to the beach was only a couple of minutes through the condo developement and down a long flight of steps but it was so great to just wander along in the sand at the ocean it became only a small part of the adventure. Sleeping in our master suite (the second one) was no problem. It was a great comfy bed with soft sheets that almost felt like flannel and there were plenty of blankets for the cold coast nights. We will definitely be back.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Weekend getaway - Sunsets,Pelicans and walks on the beach

Guest: Qborg1 (Mountain View, California)
Date of Stay: 11/13/10 Review Submitted: 12/01/10

Our stay at the Blue Dolphin was most pleasant. The accommodations were very comfortable in the second master suite downstairs. We had our own bathroom with double sinks and a whirlpool tub. The kitchen and living room had everything to make our stay most enjoyable. A large flat screen TV with satellite hook up. A very comfortable couch and chair. A breakfast nook with a view of the ocean. During the day we took long walks on the beach which was within easy access by a variety of different paths. When we returned we could still enjoy the lovely weather from the spacious deck. It too has a wonderfully unobstructed view of the ocean and the sunset. At night our accommodations at the Blue Dolphin were soothingly calm and quiet, so drifting off to sleep was no problem after a day of fun in the sun on the beach and on the deck. We look forward to staying at the Blue Dolphin in the near future.

Recommended for:Families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Amazing home in Amazing location!

Guest: Carolyn (Santa Barbara, CA)
Date of Stay: 09/28/10 Review Submitted: 10/24/10

I have stayed at this lovely home before and as always I am impressed with how beautifully maintained this rental home is: the pictures here only show a fraction of this spectacular property! I love how close the beach is, and the proximity to Moss Landing and downtown Santa Cruz is perfect. I highly recommend watching the sunset over the ocean from the balcony, as well as enjoying a few games of pool in the garage. And as always Lynda was a pleasure to work with, and I appreciated the clear labels indicating how to keep everything organized. Needless to say I'm looking forward to booking another stay here very soon!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Noel
Date of Stay: 08/20/10 Review Submitted: 09/21/10

Thank-you for providing us with such great memories. Your home is beautiful and the view is fantastic! Thank-you for being so accommodating to our situation. Beautiful home and beautiful views. We have memories that will last forever.

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Beautiful and peaceful getaway

Guest: Noel (Syracuse, UT)
Date of Stay: 08/18/10 Review Submitted: 09/25/10

This home was beautiful and true to the descriptions listed. It suited our party of 10 (all adults) comfortably. We loved the fact that the location was quiet and peaceful, rather easy to access, and within a short walking distance to an uncrowded beach. We enjoyed exploring Monterey Bay, Caramel by the Sea and Pebble Beach. The owners were very helpful and sensitive to our needs. This was the perfect place to for us to spend a few precious days together as a family before our father's failing health wouldn't allow him to travel any more. The memories we made at the Blue Dolphin will always be cherished! Thank you!

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, sightseeing.

Super Uptight Owners!

Guest: Joan (Orinda, CA)
Date of Stay: 08/12/10 Review Submitted: 08/23/10

The place is no doubt a very beautiful and well stocked place - but very uncomfortable with signs and notes every time you turn around (ie: you will be charged if one of the four plastic hangers is missing, don't let kids run in the hallway or on the stairs, check inventory at your arrival because you will be charged for missing items, etc). In the guest book you would expect to see ideas for places to go or menus for favorite restaurants? Not here! But you will learn about spot removal if you stain the white couch. I would suggest not taking children of any age. I feel like these are new owners who probably shouldn't be renting such a nice place. This was not a relaxing vacation.

Owner response: This review came to us as a surprise given that an initial email we received from the renter said, ‘Thanks again for such a wonderful time at your place last weekend. I think it's by far the nicest place we have ever rented. … but we totally understood your need to make sure it stays nice.’ After the housekeeping report came in and charges were assessed, we received this negative review. We have an inventory of kitchen items and labels in drawers and cupboards that show where items go. This was done so that renters can easily verify everything is there when they arrive and quickly check when they leave. We have provided an upscale vacation rental with many nice items and want the items to be there for future renters. We count the hangers because if they are taken, the next renter will not have any to use. We know that many other rentals also use inventories to keep their place nice. Our home is open to anyone who will respect our neighbors and neighborhood. You can sit on the balcony and watch sunsets, listen to music, watch TV, and play pool and other games in our home while the nearby pool and beach are places to run and play. The signs request that you hose off the sand before coming inside, and please do not run up and down the stairs because that sound carries to the neighbors unit. An information binder is available in a basket in the kitchen that lists local restaurants and their brochures. A vacuum and cleaning supplies are provided so that if an accident occurs during your stay, it is easy to take care of. This is something we provide as a convenience to our renters, because we understand that with children messes can happen. We are not new owners; please look at the other reviews to see that we have been renting for some time now to many happy vacationers.

Recommended for:Age 55+

Great family reunion!

Guest: Janette & Dave & family (Vacaville, CA)
Date of Stay: 08/07/10 Review Submitted: 08/27/10

Our family of 8 stayed here for our first family reunion since my oldest son got married. The bedroom layout was great...the newlyweds could have their own bedroom & bathroom suite downstairs, our college boys had the room with the 3 beds, and my girls stayed in the daybed & trundle bed in the "office" side of our large master bedroom. The kitchen was great, we loved the large table for meals & playing games. Our kids had a fabulous time boogie boarding at the beach for hours each day. (Be sure to bring wetsuits & boogie boards! The best activity ever!) After each day we rinsed off our wetsuits and feet at the hose in the back of the house, where we were able to feel secure in leaving our wet boogie boards until the next day's excursion (it was well hidden from the view of the street). At the beach we also enjoyed football, frisbee, kites, and reading/relaxing. We had an evening bonfire on the beach one night complete with smores, guitar playing and glow stick necklaces! (Fire pits are on the beach and allowed until 10 pm.) We walked to the beach several times a day...there is a neat path to the beach beginning just down the street from this condo. We loved the nice neighborhood and somewhat private beach. Few people were near our area, but we could see lots of people farther away at Manresa State Beach. So we really had each day to ourselves! We took family photos on the beach one morning, which turned out pretty good for a camera on a tripod with a timer! We had a great time at this condo...Our "Beach Reunion" was wonderful! Thank you for sharing your home with us. ---Janette & Dave & family

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Guest: Dave, Janette and Family
Date of Stay: 08/03/10 Review Submitted: 09/21/10

Our Family reunion was great! We enjoyed the comfy beds,easy beach access, pool, spa, tennis courts, beautiful home decor, big dining table, easy to work in kitchen, BBQ, laundry room etc. The home is lovely and luxurious. Thanks for sharing with us.

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wonderful vacation

Guest: Jackie (Rescue, California)
Date of Stay: 07/10/10 Review Submitted: 09/20/10

This condo was beautiful and fully supplied with everything you would need to make your vacation a dream. Will definitely go back.

Recommended for:Age 55+

Blue Dolphin - July 2010

Guest: Denise (El Dorado Hills, CA)
Date of Stay: 07/05/10 Review Submitted: 07/12/10

This is a beautiful home w/plenty of room our large family (8) and a great view, within 3 min walk to the beach. The beach was quiet and allowed fires at night, but the ocean was a little rough. It was an easy drive to Capitola and Santa Cruz. Everything about the house was well done - decor, bedding, towels, kitchen amenities, TVs, wireless network, etc. Owners were very nice and easy to work with. All 8 of us had a great time! I would definitely recommend this property.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

The best vacation home

Guest: Srinibas (Cupertino)
Date of Stay: 04/09/10 Review Submitted: 04/12/10

I had the most memorable moments in this vacation home, couldn't have asked more than this. Perfect location, perfect view and very well maintained home, there is everything. My family and friends had a great time. There are much more than the pictures posted in this listing can even describe, Would definitely recommend to my friends to come to this place.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Kelley N (Encinitas, CA/USA)
Date of Stay: 03/08/10 Review Submitted: 03/08/10

We couldn't have asked for a more inviting, beautifully decorated home! It truly felt like a special vacation destination because the interior of the house was so fabulously done. With a great tv, wonderful kitchen stocked with everything you could want, and tons of really comfortable beds... I can't think of what else I could have asked for! It was exactly the atmosphere we wanted to create an amazing weekend getaway. Recommended for all!

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Guest: Kate59 (Long Beach, CA)
Date of Stay: 02/24/10 Review Submitted: 02/24/10

Wow, what a beautiful house in a beautiful area! I could not have dreamed of a better place to stay! Besides the house being in a wonderfully serene location right next to the beach and the fact that it is perfectly decorated for style and comfort, I love it because it felt like home! There was nothing to stress about on this vacation. 10 of us fit without any issues and could have easily accommodated more. I loved being able to cook and grill, and especially liked the new kitchen appliances and utensils. Overall, I had a wonderful vacation and it was largely due to this house!

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Guest: Carolyn48 (Santa Barbara, CA)
Date of Stay: 02/23/10 Review Submitted: 02/23/10

I just spent an unforgettable weekend at the Blue Dolphin for a reunion with 8 of my best friends, and we had an AMAZING time! We enjoyed a beautiful walk on the beach, relaxed in the spa, and were able to enjoy cooking our meals and eating in-all with beautiful ocean views. We will definitely be booking our next reunion here again!

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Fabulous!

Guest: Kelley N (Encinitas, CA/USA)
Date of Stay: 02/19/10 Review Submitted: 03/08/10

A large group of us had an incredible weekend at this condo. We completely recommend it for anyone with great taste. :) It felt like the perfect combination of a luxurious getaway, yet a home where we could feel natural and comfortable. Beautiful neighborhood and a lovely walk right down to the ocean side!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Michele
Date of Stay: 11/28/09 Review Submitted: 09/21/10

This Thanksgiving Holiday vacation has forever implanted very special friend and family memories within my heart. Thank-you for providing such a lovely home for these memories

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Guest: Erin
Date of Stay: 11/27/09 Review Submitted: 09/21/10

Had a great time at Thanksgiving with the family, wonderful place. Hope to come back again.

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Guest: Kristine gray (Sunnyvale, CA)
Date of Stay: 10/26/09 Review Submitted: 10/25/09

This is a wonderful place for a getaway. There is plenty of room and the condo is decorated beautifully. The big screen tv, wi-fi, and modern kitchen, pool table and short walk to the beach keeps everyone entertained . We felt spoiled with all the amenities and watching the sun set from the deck. We can't wait to go back next year.

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Guest: Girls Night Out Boardgame (Fresno ca)
Date of Stay: 10/05/09 Review Submitted: 10/04/09

The ladies of our group had a wonderful time and it fit our needs perfectly. It had plenty of room, places to eat and gather and the view from the deck stunning. The furnishings were beautiful and the place was impeccably clean. Linda was great to communicate with and very helpful. We had fun driving around and around the complex looking for the spa only to find that it was just a few feet away. My only negative would be that yes, while the beach was only 5 minutes away there were 180 steps that led down to it or alternatively a steep walk back to the condo, I didnt try the third route. I do think this should have been more clear as I am certainly glad we didnt have more seniors in our group. One little thing, it might have been nice to have a hairdryer there as out of the 8 ladies no-one brought one.

Owner response:Hair dryers have been installed in two of the bathrooms.

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Guest: Ron Kilby (-)
Date of Stay: 10/02/09 Review Submitted: 10/02/09

Had an absolutely wonderful time here. The home is beautifully decorated and very comfortable. With an ocean view from almost every room, the sunset view from the deck was the best. Our friends enjoyed the boogie boarding & we enjoyed the stroll along the beach...we could have gone for miles! Watching the dolphins in the late afternoon was a treat! Sunday's kayaking along the nearby Elkhorn Slough National Marine Sanctuary was the most eventful kayaking trip of the summer...sea lions, otters & a vast array of sea birds around us in the calm waters of the slough made for an especially memorable trip. There are two rental shops at the mouth of the slough which makes it easy for beginners & those who don't have a boat. This is a great combination of a well-appointed, quiet & comfortable home in a beautiful setting with plenty of nearby outdoor activities. We never did get to the wine tasting, Monterrey or Santa Cruz; had too much fun. We look forward to returning!

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Guest: Aleksandr Feldman (Santa Cruz/ California)
Date of Stay: 09/24/09 Review Submitted: 09/24/09

I never knew that I could enter a home for a few days, and completely forget about the troubles of my school and work life. After just a few minutes of stepping foot in this luxurious home, I felt at peace with myself, and was ready to enjoy the most relaxing vacation I have ever had. The home offers so much comfort and freedom that by my last day of staying here, I was a little reluctant to go back to my real life. Notwithstanding the beauty of the ocean, and the perfect location, the home itself was something to really die for. The TV that is placed in the nicely furnished living room, is nothing like you would find in any hotel. It is huge and up to date with so many channels. The balcony is amazing, not to say the least. There is an expensive grill and a second table for outdoor dinner gatherings. The view from this balcony is impeccable. The rooms are decorated, and the beds are spacious and comfortable...I am just really happy to have made the decision to stay in this home. I am planning to go back very soon, so save me a spot!

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Guest: Jill,Alistair,Teri,Sheila,Shirley,pam and Kayla
Date of Stay: 09/20/09 Review Submitted: 09/21/10

The decorations are great. I also loved the patterns of bedding you choose and the colors are beautiful. Thanks for a good week-end, your house is beautiful, not to mention the view. The girls night out board game group was here in September 2009, what fun we had. We wanted all the furnishings. Thank-you for making all info easy to see! Loved the labels. Hope we will get back again.

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Guest: Sandy P.1 (Gold River, CA)
Date of Stay: 08/11/09 Review Submitted: 08/11/09

Lynda, we had a wonderful time at the Blue Dolphin and can't thank you enough! Your home was impeccably clean, comfortable, spacious and made our stay on the beach unforgettable for my family. We definitely plan to make this a yearly outing. Thanks again Lynda!!

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