Santa Cruz holiday lettings

We found 802 holiday rentals — enter your dates for availability

Discover a selection of 306 homes, 25 apartments and other holiday rentals in Santa Cruz that are perfect for your trip. Whether you're travelling with your children and pets, with friends or just your children, holiday rentals have the best amenities for spending time at your holiday home, which might include a garden and pool. No matter what you're looking for, you'll be able to choose a property to rent to meet everyone's needs, including accessible or non-smoking choices.

Holiday rentals with weekly discounts - Santa Cruz

Showing deals for:17 Oct - 24 Oct
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Why visit Santa Cruz

  • Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
  • Outdoor Activities: Explore the Santa Cruz Mountains with hiking, biking, and scenic nature walks.
  • Amusement Parks: Enjoy thrilling rides and attractions at the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
  • Vibrant Downtown: Discover unique shops, eateries, and cultural experiences in the lively downtown area.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Santa Cruz offers a welcoming environment with activities suitable for all ages.

Popular types of accommodation in Santa Cruz

When it comes to Santa Cruz holiday rentals, you'll find a variety of options tailored to your needs, including houses, condos, and charming cottages. Whether you're seeking a spacious house rental for the family or a cosy retreat for two, our selection of Santa Cruz vacation rentals ensures you’ll discover the perfect base for your adventures. Enjoy transparency, savings, and reassurance as you plan your getaway!

  • Houses: The top choice for visitors to Santa Cruz, offering spacious and comfortable living for families or groups.
  • Condos: A popular option for those seeking modern amenities and a convenient location, ideal for couples or small families.
  • Cottages: These quaint and charming retreats provide a cosy atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway.
  • Apartments: A practical choice for solo travellers or couples, providing a home-from-home experience.
  • Villas: Luxurious accommodations offering ample space and often stunning views, suitable for larger gatherings.**

Top attractions in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is an ideal destination for outdoor family holidays and beach getaways. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including stunning beaches, captivating state parks, and lively amusement parks. The area offers a delightful blend of beach culture and outdoor experiences, making it perfect for those seeking adventure and relaxation alike. With so much to explore, Santa Cruz promises an unforgettable holiday for every traveller.

  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: This vibrant amusement park boasts thrilling rides, classic games, and an inviting beach atmosphere, perfect for families seeking fun and adventure by the coast.
  • Mystery Spot: A fascinating exhibit set in the woods, where gravity seems to defy logic. This quirky attraction offers a unique cultural experience that will leave you questioning reality.
  • Capitola Beach: Located 2.5km away, this picturesque beach is renowned for its colourful seaside cottages and relaxing ambience, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing and leisurely strolls along the shore.

Things to do recommended for couples

For a romantic getaway in Santa Cruz, indulge in wine tasting at Soquel Vineyards or Poetic Cellars Winery, both offering charming atmospheres. For a touch of relaxation, visit Luminescence Healing Haven for a soothing body treatment, ensuring a perfect couple's retreat.

Things to do recommended for families

Families will delight in the fun at Boardwalk Bowl's arcadeAdventureZone, explore the treetops on the Zip Line, just 3.7km from Santa Cruz, and enjoy the thrills of the Sky Glider themeParkRide, all offering exciting adventure and entertainment vibes in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Things to do recommended for groups

Explore Ocean Street for a vibrant shopping experience, enjoy a round of golf at the scenic Pasatiempo Golf Course, or visit Capitola Mercantile, a lively shopping centre just 2.5km from Santa Cruz, perfect for family entertainment and local delights.

Booking with Vrbo is simple

Looking to cut costs on your next holiday? Consider being flexible with your travel dates, as prices can fluctuate. Moreover, extending your stay often results in significant savings. To discover the ideal Vrbo accommodation that fits your budget, utilise our filters to search by price, location, and type of rental.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly beaches and stunning natural landscapes. Explore the vibrant downtown, unwind along the picturesque coastline, or venture into the Santa Cruz Mountains for outdoor adventures. With its welcoming atmosphere and numerous excursions, Santa Cruz County is the perfect destination for a relaxing holiday filled with fun for all ages.

  • Capitola: Located a mere 2.5km from Santa Cruz, Capitola is a charming seaside city that captivates visitors with its picturesque beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Known for its stunning coastal scenery, visitors can indulge in outdoor activities such as sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The local landmarks, including the iconic Capitola Beach and the serene bay, offer perfect spots for relaxation. Thrill-seekers will appreciate the nearby amusement park and boardwalk, which provide family-friendly entertainment options. Don't miss the chance to explore the quaint shops and delightful eateries that line the streets, making Capitola a must-visit destination.
  • Westside Santa Cruz: Nestled around the Santa Cruz area, Westside Santa Cruz is a delightful neighbourhood known for its family-friendly environment and stunning beaches. Here, visitors can enjoy a plethora of outdoor experiences, including scenic walks along the coastline and visits to the renowned amusement park. The Westside is rich in educational opportunities, with various attractions such as the local theme park and the captivating bay. This neighbourhood is perfect for families seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all ages.
  • Eastside Santa Cruz: Eastside Santa Cruz is another vibrant neighbourhood that showcases the beautiful coastal charm of the area. With a strong focus on outdoor activities, families can embrace the sun at the local beach or enjoy recreational areas that are perfect for picnics and play. The neighbourhood offers easy access to the popular amusement park and boardwalk, appealing to visitors of all ages. Explore the stunning bay and nearby theme park to create lasting memories in this welcoming and lively community.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

If you're planning a trip to Santa Cruz, it's a good idea to check both the weather and property rates. The warmest month is September. Peak season runs from June to August, while off-peak times, like December to February tend to have fewer bookings and better deals.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
March52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April54.7°F (12.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
May56.7°F (13.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
June60.1°F (15.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July62.1°F (16.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August63.3°F (17.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September63.9°F (17.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October61.5°F (16.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
November56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
December52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in 'Santa Cruz

If you’re travelling with a group, family, pets, or planning for an extended stay, it’s essential to prioritise your filters accordingly. Here are some helpful booking tips for using Vrbo.

  • Traveling to Santa Cruz with a group: Think about how many bedrooms you require, along with additional features like a fully equipped kitchen or outdoor space for socialising with your group. Thankfully, you can easily refine your search for all of these options and more on Vrbo.
  • Traveling to Santa Cruz with young kids: Travelling with young children can present its own set of challenges. It’s essential to prioritise their comfort and safety, alongside ensuring access to suitable amenities like a private swimming pool. Additionally, it's wise to think about your closeness to family-friendly attractions.
  • Taking your pets with you to Santa Cruz: For many, a family holiday isn't truly fulfilled without their furry companion by their side. If this resonates with you, take a look at Vrbo properties that welcome pets. Most of these pet-friendly accommodations offer feeding bowls and beds, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and at home.
  • Planning for a long term stay visiting Santa Cruz: If you're in search of holiday rentals offering discounts for stays of a month or more, you've come to the right place. By using the appropriate filters, you can effortlessly discover and save on monthly rentals. Don't forget to include options such as a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or even a private pool in your search criteria.

Vrbo Trips: Planning made easy

Vrbo's Trip Board offers a handy platform for organising your travel plans, allowing you to create new trips, resume where you last stopped, or manage your itinerary effortlessly. You'll discover your saved or booked properties neatly organised into categories: Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To get started with Trip Boards, simply visit: https://www.vrbo.com/en-gb/trips.

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.

Explore the beachside setting in Santa Cruz

Enjoy the entertainment and other features of Santa Cruz. This walkable city is known for its beaches, sporting events and seaside. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay are just a couple of the must-see attractions. Whether you're planning a family holiday, romantic stay or trip with friends, holiday rentals offer features like full kitchens and laundry facilities for a more convenient stay.

Activities and attractions in Santa Cruz

Are you searching for attractions to visit in the city? Travellers enjoy fun activities like surfing, camping and cycling. Venture out of your cosy holiday rental and check out everything that Santa Cruz has to offer. These are some of the most popular attractions to put on your list, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (1.1 mi / 1.7 km)
  • Pasatiempo Golf Course (1.8 mi / 2.9 km)
  • Zip Line (6.3 mi / 10.1 km)
  • Seascape Golf Club (7.8 mi / 12.6 km)
  • Mount Madonna Center (15.9 mi / 25.5 km)
  • Testarossa Winery (16.4 mi / 26.5 km)

Exploring the beaches and other natural features in Santa Cruz

Whether you're looking for exciting outdoor activities or just want to spend some time taking in the scenery, Santa Cruz is a great place to spend some time outside. Here are some of the area’s most eye-catching natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Monterey Bay (13 mi / 20.9 km)
  • Main Beach (1.1 mi / 1.7 km)
  • Santa Cruz Main Beach (1.1 mi / 1.8 km)
  • University of California Santa Cruz Arboretum (1.5 mi / 2.5 km)
  • Seabright Beach (1.6 mi / 2.5 km)
  • Twin Lakes State Beach (1.8 mi / 2.9 km)

Seasonal weather in Santa Cruz

Travellers speak highly of Santa Cruz for its surfing. If you're hoping to enjoy some warm-weather activities on your holiday, September, August, July and October are the hottest months to visit, when temperatures average 17°C.

Transport to and around Santa Cruz

The nearest airport is in Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal), located 13.4 mi (21.6 km) from the city centre. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you might consider flying into San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.), which is 27.6 mi (44.3 km) away.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Santa Cruz when booking a holiday rental?
Among the more popular areas to enjoy a holiday home in Santa Cruz is Twin Lakes. Base yourself here and you'll be close to some top attractions such as Twin Lakes State Beach and Lincoln Beach.
What is the most popular type of holiday rental accommodation in Santa Cruz?
The most in-demand types of holiday rentals in Santa Cruz are houses. Hoping for something different? Vrbo has a variety of options to match our guests' needs, so you'll see holiday properties in all shapes and sizes, and for all budgets. The ideal home away from home is waiting for you --- grab yours today.
How much does it cost to rent a holiday rental in Santa Cruz?
The average price for a holiday home in Santa Cruz is based on a number of factors, such as length of stay, season and property type. Whether you're thinking about a sprawling villa with space for extended family or a quaint cabin perfect for just you and the kids, just add your travel dates to see stays with unbeatable value.
How much does it cost to rent a beach house in Santa Cruz?
The average price for a holiday home near the beach in Santa Cruz depends on when you're travelling and the size and type of property you want. You can quickly and easily find prices on Vrbo by entering your dates of travel. Then use our filters to choose the number of bedrooms and amenities important to you, such as WiFi, a pool and air conditioning.
Are there pet-friendly holiday rentals in Santa Cruz?
Yes. There are. You can pick from 717 holiday rentals that cater to pets in Santa Cruz. Plenty of our pet-friendly holiday rentals come with an outdoor area for your furry friend to play around in, complimentary treats, special dog beds and proximity to parks or green space. Apply the "Pets allowed" filter to find your pawfect digs on Vrbo.
Can I rent a house with a pool in Santa Cruz?
Add a whole new level of fun to your adventure by booking your crew into one of the 84 houses with a private pool in Santa Cruz. Use our search filter to find the kind of property you want on Vrbo, and then spend your downtime splish-splashing around in a swimming pool that's all your own.
What are popular rental amenities in Santa Cruz?
Nearby museums, a nearby river and a water view are the most popular rental amenities in Santa Cruz. Whether you plan to travel by yourself, with your other half or a group of dear friends, Vrbo can help you find a holiday rental that matches your style with all the extras you're looking for.
Are there large group holiday rentals in Santa Cruz?
With 80 holiday rentals that can sleep 10 guests or more in Santa Cruz, there's no need to keep anyone off the invite list. From holidays with the extended family to special events like Thanksgiving or Christmas parties, Vrbo will help you find a large group rental that fits the occasion.
Are there holiday rentals in Santa Cruz that welcome kids?
Santa Cruz has 714 family-friendly holiday homes to pick from. And discovering a stay that welcomes little ones is a cinch with Vrbo's "Properties good for families" filter. In addition to having the whole place to yourselves, you'll have access to amenities and perks such as living rooms, pools and kitchens.
What are the top attractions for families in Santa Cruz?
Keeping the kids happy during your holiday in Santa Cruz is a cinch with these awesome family-friendly attractions:

  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
  • Roaring Camp Railroads
  • Rio Del Mar Beach

Are there one-bedroom holiday rentals in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has 133 one-bedroom rentals on offer. Usually located in popular areas because of their smaller size, a one-bedroom property is ideal if you're travelling with your partner or a friend. And with comforts such as laundry facilities and more privacy than a standard hotel, you'll be able to chill out while exploring this terrific destination.
Can I find two-bedroom holiday rentals in Santa Cruz?
You can select from 227 two-bedroom rentals in Santa Cruz. Give the kids the second room or fill it with a couple of your nearest and dearest friends. There's plenty of space for whoever's fortunate enough to be coming along.
Are there holiday rentals with WiFi in Santa Cruz?
Whether you want to keep up to date with the news, write a few emails or post a pic to social media, there are 266 holiday homes with WiFi in Santa Cruz. Check the "WiFi" box when searching on Vrbo and stay connected on your holiday.
How can I find holiday rentals with air conditioning in Santa Cruz?
You'll have your pick of 66 holiday homes with air conditioning in Santa Cruz giving you that gentle, cool breeze and extra level of comfort. Simply enter your travel dates and then take advantage of our filters to search for properties with air conditioning.
How old do you have to be to rent a holiday rental in Santa Cruz?
The minimum age is typically 16, 18 or 21. It can vary across properties on Vrbo, so look at the rules of your chosen Santa Cruz holiday rental before booking your stay.
How long can I rent a holiday rental in Santa Cruz for?
The amount of time you can rent a Santa Cruz holiday home for is up to the property. Simply tap in your travel dates to see available options offering extended stays. They have all you require to make your extended trip more enjoyable like air conditioning and kitchens. Some properties might also offer weekly or monthly discounts, so you can hang around longer for less.

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