On the Water: Oceanfront Sand Dollar Beach

Photo gallery for On the Water: Oceanfront Sand Dollar Beach

Living Area
Living Area
Living Area
Kitchen
Queen/Twin Bedroom

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Top rated beach location
    Discover paradise at this top rated beach location.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.

Popular amenities

  • Balcony or patio
  • Refrigerator
  • Washing machine
  • Internet
  • Fireplace
  • Non-smoking

Explore the area

View in a map
La Selva Beach, CA
  • Place, Manresa State Beach
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
    ‪23 min drive‬
  • Place, Mystery Spot
    ‪30 min drive‬
  • Airport, Monterey, CA (MRY-Monterey Peninsula)
    ‪53 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom #1

1 Single Bed and 1 Queen Bed

Bedroom #2

1 King Bed

Bedroom #3

1 Single Bed and 1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Kitchen

Add dates for prices

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About the area

Watsonville

Watsonville is home to this holiday home. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a popular attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Monterey Bay and Capitola Beach. Watsonville Center for the Arts and Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds are also worth visiting.
View more Holiday homes in WatsonvilleOpens in a new window
Map
La Selva Beach, CA

What's nearby

  • Manresa State Beach - 3 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 23 min drive - 24.7 km
  • Santa Cruz Wharf - 24 min drive - 25.4 km
  • Natural Bridges State Park - 27 min drive - 28.0 km
  • Mystery Spot - 30 min drive - 28.3 km

Getting around

  • Gilroy Station - 39 min drive
  • Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal) - 15 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Panda Express - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Beer Mule - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Imura Japanese Restaurant - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Golden China Restaurant - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is On the Water: Oceanfront Sand Dollar Beach pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at On the Water: Oceanfront Sand Dollar Beach?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at On the Water: Oceanfront Sand Dollar Beach?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is On the Water: Oceanfront Sand Dollar Beach located?

Situated in Watsonville, this holiday home is within 1 mi (2 km) of Manresa State Beach and Monterey Bay. Beer Can Beach and La Selva Beach are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 26 out of 34 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 34 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 34 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 34 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 34 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.6/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house has a view that couldn't be any better and you can walk out the sliders of either downstairs bedroom right on to one of the best beaches in the area. We had relaxing nights sleep listening to the waves crashing and taking in the wonderful ocean air. We will be back again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept, 2026
Thank you for the wonderful review! We’re so glad you enjoyed the ocean views, beach access, and peaceful sound of the waves. We look forward to welcoming you back!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Had a great time with my family of four. Should be noted that there is a lot of walking up and down stairs, and that beach access is through the downstairs bedrooms
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Aug, 2026
Thank you for staying with us! We’re so glad to hear you and your family of four had a great time. We appreciate your feedback regarding the stairs and beach access, and we’ll keep that in mind as we continue to provide helpful information to future guests. We hope to welcome you and your family back again soon!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property right on a quiet stretch of beach. The grand kids were thrilled to spot a couple of otters and lots of sea birds. The condo was very clean and well stocked with all the essentials. The property management staff were courteous and helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Aug, 2026
Thank you so much for the wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear your family enjoyed the beautiful beach location and got to see some otters and seabirds during your stay. We’re also glad you found the condo clean, well stocked, and our team helpful. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we hope to welcome you back again soon!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A wonderful home with incredible views of the ocean, highly recommend!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Dec, 2025
We appreciate your kind review, we are glad you found the home incredible! We hope to host you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Would love to return, had a fantastic time.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept, 2025
We are so happy you enjoyed your time here, we hope to welcome you back for more fun!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful property steps to the beach!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice house on a great beach!

Check-in was very easy, the property manager was responsive, and the beach is GREAT! It was large, had great sand, and wasn’t crowded. They provide tons of towels and we enjoyed the firm beds.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Aug, 2025
Thank you so much for your kind review! We're glad to hear that check-in was smooth, the beach exceeded expectations, and that you found the home comfortable and well-stocked. We’d love to host you again anytime!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
It's a great location as this is right on the beach. With a young toddler, we had trouble with the bed frames downstairs, but other than that, this was a great stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ocean beauty

This condo was in a fantastic location with stunning views of the ocean throughout the house. It was very clean and offered easy access to the sandy beach. We would love to stay again sometime.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Jan, 2021
Thank you for your stay with us and glad you were able to bring in 2021 relaxing at the beach! Looking forward to working together in the future.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Amazing location!

A mom's weekend for much needed time away. There were eight of us and it was a perfect spot. Oceanfront, private beach, beautiful sunsets, with all amenities. Definitely going back!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar, 2020
We are so glad you were able to have a fabulous mom's weekend and that the weather was perfect for the beach! We look forward to working with you again in the near future!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quick family getaway

Everything was perfect! The pictures are so accurate! They have Everything you need.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 May, 2024
Melly, We are so glade you enjoyed your trip! Please come back anytime!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

family gathering

Had a wonderful time great location only concern was inside top floor banister not child friendly ( safe ) All in all very nice all went well.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Jul, 2023
Thank you Michael for your review and feedback. We are happy to hear you and your family had a great vacation! Hope to see you next year.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous beach vacation experience!

What a little gem! I was unfamiliar of the La Selva Beach area, but I was pleasantly surprised! This townhome was PERFECT! So cozy and comfortable and convenient! The view was STUNNING and the rooms were comfortable. Thank you for a wonderful stay! I would love to return with my family.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 29 May, 2022
Yay we are so glad you found La Selva and loved it as much as we do! Happy that On the Water was perfect for your and your guests! We hope to host you again soon.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beachfront Condo

We had an amazing stay at this quaint beachfront condo! The neighborhood is lovely and peaceful, providing a perfect getaway spot. The location is fantastic, with easy access to the charming towns of Aptos and Capitola, where we enjoyed great dining and shopping. The condo itself was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped with everything we needed for a relaxing stay. Waking up to the sound of the ocean and having the beach just steps away was a highlight. We highly recommend this property for anyone looking to enjoy a serene beach vacation. We can’t wait to return!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Jul, 2024
Alana, thank you for your kind review. We are pleased to hear you and your family had an amazing stay and all went well! I would agree, waking up to the sound of the ocean is amazing. We look forward to hosting you in the future.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

View is spectacular!

We had a wonderful Christmas here! Right on the beach as advertised. The property management company was very responsive to a few minor issues and they were resolved immediately. The one recommendation I have is to purchase new beds. The property does have three levels so lots of stairs which may be difficult for an elderly person.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar, 2020
Thank you Deena for your review. We will suggest to the Owner about the beds. Glad you had an amazing time and we look forward to working with you again.
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Private place right on the beach!

We stayed for a week and the pictures are accurate. You are right on the beach and there is a private stairway (via a downstairs bedroom) to the beach! Check in was easy (at the place) and communication with the property management company was easy/responsive. FYI the upstairs bedroom is not enclosed and supplies (no salt, no nonstick pan) are lacking. Closest town with decent supplies is Capitola (20-40 minutes depending on traffic). Overall our vacation was awesome and we would stay again!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Dec, 2022
Thank you Jessica for staying with us at On the Water. We are glad the home worked for you and your family/friends. Yes this home is between Watsonville and Santa Cruz. We hope you visit again soon.
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in

Father's day weekend

Key pick up and drop off is in Capitola. Not the end of the world but still inconvenient. Some extra pillow cases would be nice. Everything else was great. We would be happy to return
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Jun, 2020
Thank you Rodney for your stay with us and glad you enjoyed your stay. Yes with the new COVID 19 standards it is harder to leave extra linens. We look forward to working with you directly next time!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Beautiful view , location

Beautiful spot , gives you the private beach feeling . Lovely views of sunsets , we had a. Great time enjoying the bon fire and watching the sunset from the balcony’s. . Would just recommend they get foam toppers for the beds. People had hard time sleeping and woke up saying they are hard . The laundary room was full of dirty linens and. Arrived .had to do them ourselves . Other than hard bed and dirty laundry , it’s a gem.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar, 2020
Thank you for writing your review! Yes the views and access to the sand can't be beat. I will look into what happened on the dirty linens as you should not have come into dirty anything. Thank you for letting us know. I will also advise the Owner about the beds and hopefully get them updated ASAP. We look forward to have the chance to work with you again when you plan your next trip to Santa Cruz!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful, spacious, and cozy

Our family enjoyed our thanksgiving stay at this property. It was very comfy, clean, cozy, and just a few steps away from the beach. We appreciated the beautiful view and the fireplace.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Dec, 2021
We are happy to hear you enjoyed your stay at On the Water with Kendall & Potter and Thank you for sharing your experience! We value your input and encourage you to come visit again. Happy Holidays!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness

My only complaint....

My only complaint is that upon arrival the windows were very dirty. I cleaned them all myself because it really hindered the amazing view this house has to offer. I understand the cleaning staff not cleaning the high windows, but all of the lower level windows and sliding glass doors should be cleaning each time.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Mar, 2023
Thank you for visiting us at On the Water and we have a schedule in place for between rentals for all windows to be cleaned. We apologize for the inconvenience you incurred. We do hope you will visit us again soon.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Family Tradition

Sand Dollar Beach has been our go to family vacation for over 30 years. Last year we lost the original place we’ve been renting. Kendall and Potter were fantastic helping us find another perfect place. Everything was just as it was advertised. Gorgeous and relaxing as always.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Jul, 2021
Maria we are so glad you enjoyed your stay with us at On the Water! Happy Kendall & Potter were able to help you stay at Sand Dollar and we will see you again next year and possibly sooner!!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best trip ever!!

House was beautiful everything was amazing! Had everything we needed and more! Thank you
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Mar, 2021
Thank you for staying with us at On the Water! We are glad you were able to get a staycation and enjoy all that La Selva has to offer from the views and beach walks! Looking forward to working together again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Water front

Defently delivers with the beach views and proximity to it. Also although that section of the beach is not private it did seem to be more space between families. I recommend this property.
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Feb, 2021
Yes this is one of the best beaches in Santa Cruz! Long walks and space for all. WE are so glad you enjoyed your time and look forward to working together again soon.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Just the right Staycation

My family and I enjoyed rolling out of bed onto the beach from this townhouse. It is exactly what we needed this summer.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Jul, 2020
Jessica we are so glad you enjoyed your stay with us at On the Water! We look forward to seeing you again in the future for your next trip to Santa Cruz!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Communication, location

On The Beach Down Two/Three Stair Flights

Nice house, spectacular location and weather in October, three levels-too many stairs, lacking in supplies--paper products, esp. toilet paper, air conditioning needs either new HVAC or thermostat, took 5 hours to cool down to 70 degrees, balcony porch lights didn't work, pathetic microwave from 1960s, kitchen utensils could use updating and decluttering, living room drapery pulls awful-painful to operate. and stuck a lot., 1st floor shower head needs replacement-water shed in a circle, but not in the middle where one is standing., plenty of towels, linens, dishes,, living room nicely furnished and comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar, 2020
Thank you for your review. We apologize for any confusion. Kendall & Potter properties start with a starter kit of supplies. We provide information at final/full payment of what to bring. Because the home is on the Ocean we do not have AC. We always suggest to open the windows/sliders to let the ocean breeze cool things down. Otherwise there are fans available as well. Lights have been fixed and we have let the Owner know about the updating for the kitchen. Drapery has been updated/fixed as well. AGain thank you for your review and we hope you will visit us again.
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