See all properties
Entire home

Santa Cruz Beach House - Steps to Beach, Wharf, Boardwalk, Cowells, Lighthouse

Photo gallery for Santa Cruz Beach House - Steps to Beach, Wharf, Boardwalk, Cowells, Lighthouse

Kitchen
Kitchen
Aerial view
Kitchen
Kitchen

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6119.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Santa Cruz, CA
  • Cowell's Beach
    ‪4 min walk‬
  • Santa Cruz Wharf
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal)
    ‪28 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Convertible bed(s)

1 Double Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Santa Cruz Beach House - Steps to Beach, Wharf, Boardwalk, Cowells, Lighthouse

Three houses from Cowell's beach, the Santa Cruz Beach House offers the perfect location for anyone looking to be near it all. Steps to the Wharf, Main Beach, Cowell's Beach, the Boardwalk, Aquarius, Jack O'Neill Lounge, Steamer Lane, Lighthouse. Our unique 2 bedroom, 1 bath duplex comes outfitted with with garage, washer/dryer, back yard, LCD TVs, Wifi, BBQ.

Open for all travel!

B E D - C O N F I G U R A T I O N
Master: Queen
2nd Bedroom: 2 Twins
Family Room: Futon couch / Sofa Sleeper

A M E N I T I E S
* Free Wifi & High Speed Internet
* Washer & Dryer
* Full Kitchen w/ utensils, plates, cups, coffee cups
* Cable TV w/ HD channels, On Demand
* Beach towels, linens
* Outdoor gas BBQ with grill tools
* Kitchen cooking amenities provided
* Garage

N O T E S
* 100% NON-SMOKING PROPERTY
* Pets ok

A D D I T I O N A L
* 11% tax and $195 cleaning
* $80 pet fee (one-time)
* Check-in 3pm / Check-out 11am
* 25% due at time of booking and 75% due 60 days before arrival

Keywords: 2-Unit Beach Cottage, Beach House, Beach Cottage, Walk to Wharf, Surf, Sightseeing, Boardwalk, Cowells Beach, Near Downtown, Lighthouse, Disc Golf, Wharf, Natural Bridges

Property manager

Diana and Shay
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Kitchen

Cowell Beach House - 1/2 Block to Beach, Wharf, Boardwalk, Cowells, Lighthouse

  • Ocean view
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
9.2 out of 10, (216 reviews)
Cowell Beach House - 1/2 Block to Beach, Wharf, Boardwalk, Cowells, Lighthouse

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)
Pets not allowed on furniture or left alone.
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
2 parking spaces available, 1 in garage/ 1 in driveway. May - September + Holidays from 9:00pm Friday till 9:00pm Sunday it's permit street parking.
Pets are not allowed on the furniture or to be left alone at the property. This is due to consideration of our neighbors and preventing noise.
Quiet hours are 8pm until 9am.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Santa Cruz

Located in Westside Santa Cruz, a neighbourhood in Santa Cruz, this holiday home is near theme parks. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a popular attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Monterey Bay and Capitola Beach. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center and Boardwalk Bowl are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Santa Cruz, CA

What's nearby

  • Cowell's Beach - 4 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Santa Cruz Wharf - 6 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Main Beach - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Natural Bridges State Park - 4 min drive - 3.0 km

Getting around

  • Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal) - 28 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Stagnaro Bros - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Ideal Bar & Grill - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Boardwalk Bowl - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Steamer Lane Supply - ‬12 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Cruz Beach House - Steps to Beach, Wharf, Boardwalk, Cowells, Lighthouse pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total).

What time is check-in at Santa Cruz Beach House - Steps to Beach, Wharf, Boardwalk, Cowells, Lighthouse?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Santa Cruz Beach House - Steps to Beach, Wharf, Boardwalk, Cowells, Lighthouse?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Santa Cruz Beach House - Steps to Beach, Wharf, Boardwalk, Cowells, Lighthouse located?

Located in Westside Santa Cruz, this holiday home is within a 15-minute walk of Cowell's Beach and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Monterey Bay is 0.8 mi (1.3 km) away.

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. 140 out of 182 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 36 out of 182 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 182 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 182 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 182 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Cameron N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Location, Location, Location
This property was only steps away from the break at Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz CA. Being a former local I couldn't ask for a better spot. It was a short walk or ride, for those who still skate, to thw Santa Cruz warf and Beachboardwalk.Each morning I could rise and shine and take an incredible walk on the West Cliff bike and walking path. Very close to downtown Santa Cruz too which offers plenty of nice restaurants to chose from along with some adult night life options. I will definitely look to stay here again on my next trip into the area.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Casey J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quick trip to SC
Great little place close to the beaches and boardwalk. Perfect place to grab some sleep in a great neighborhood.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Graham B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Short walk to the beach
Enjoyed our time at this location. Short walk to the beach. Enjoyed time in the turfed yard to eat, play and relax during our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Angelia C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Location😎 Location🎣 Location 🎡
Such a fun, quick family trip. Great location! Perfect space to bring our dog. Quiet neighborhood and safe location. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Migdalia D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
wonderful place
It was very comfortable, past guests have left some spices that was nice, enough towels, thank you for the bech umbrella, I left it in the garage. Clothes dryer is not working well, it takes many cycles to dry completely, great stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julia M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Overflow guests
This property was a perfect place for family members who had traveled from out of the area for a milestone birthday party. Within walking distance of our home. It would have been nice if there was basics in the kitchen like salt/pepper, coffee and/or tea. Overall 5 stars 😊
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mike K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Spot
Our family enjoyed our stay in SC. The location was great, accommodations clean and had everything we needed.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer W., Sacramento

Perfect spot
Clean and great location. We will stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2019

4/10 Poor

Barbara W.

Liked: Check-in, location
Disliked: Listing accuracy
Missed opportunities to enjoy
Cute property, fantastic location. Unfortunately, having time to enjoy the location and sites was interrupted both days of our short trip. First day- no hot water, and we were boiling water for 3 people to wash up. 2nd day, 3.5 hours to dry laundry that had to be packed up wet and sat all day while we traveled was not pleasant. Would have been much easier to stay in a hotel suite, without offered amenities. The furniture is not as pictured- basic, brown faux suede fabric sofas. No headboard on queen bed, pillows are up to the blinds and we had to move the bed away from the wall just to get in/out of bed from both sides. The bedrooms were freezing, didn't realize there was a portable heater in the Queen room because the closet doors were off the tracks and couldn't get the doors open. Very disappointing stay, made worse for the 2% refund for all of our inconveniences.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location in Santa Cruz
This place serves as a great getaway for our family of 4. Would definitely come back! Great place if you have pets
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

8/10 Good

Lucy P.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness
Great Location Needs Fine Tuning
We were very happy with the location of the property and for the most part everything was as described. The biggest disappointment was the uncleanliness of the place. The host was quick to respond and send cleaners out the day after my complaint however, they still did not do a great job. We paid alot in fees and I resented having to do my own cleaning.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Morgan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Becoming an annual visit
Fantastic location and great place to stay. Plenty of space, very comfortable, feels like home. Enjoyed ourselves so much last year we came back. Plan to come back again.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jay M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Santa Cruz stay
Excellent rental for the value! Very comfortable and well stocked, clean and with excellent amenities. Hosts were terrific, responsive to questions and helpful in all ways. Location couldn’t be more perfect! All in all, a great stay—- top marks!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stacie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Location location
Our trip was awesome. This lovely little home had everything we needed for our family of 5. The gem is just a few houses down to ocean views and walking distance to the Boardwalk
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Teresa E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute home in quiet neighborhood
Cute home with all the necessities provided. Close to beach, pier and Boardwalk. Beds were comfy. Small backyard area for pets.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

elaine s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect Spot
The house was clean, cozy, and well equipped. This is a perfect spot in a quiet neighborhood on the West Side of Santa Cruz.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Deano M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stay in Santa Cruz
Good
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kristy D., Roseville, CA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great little house
The house was perfect for our purpose on our long weekend. It had everything we needed and was great walking distance to the boardwalk. The house was nice and clean, just no ocean view from the driveway. The owners communicated well with check-in instructions. Great spot for small families.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Sai J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A good stay
The location is the star here - super close to West Cliff Drive and walking distance from the beach as well as Cowells and Steamer Lane surf stairs. Check-in was super easy, and the kitchen was well stocked with dishware and stuff (though you’ll want to bring your own oil, seasonings, etc.). The house was comfortable for us (2) and probably fine with kids, but just fair warning I think 4 adults would be a tight fit. We had a lovely weekend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Deidra B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Santa Cruz/ College visit trip
We came to the area for Spring Break to have some sunshine and do some college visits around the area. The house is in a safe and quiet neighborhood. It’s within walking distance to dinners, the waterfront and watching the surfers. We spent more time out and about, but were very comfortable returning to the house later in the evening.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

8/10 Good

Jodie L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Location, location
So close to everything. Started each day with a walk along the cliffs/ocean. Property is small but very comfortable for a few people. Would have given a 5 rating except i felt they could have at least given you a couple of dishwasher tabs to use. Had it full before we realized there was nothing available. My husband has some mobility concerns and it would have been nice to have some type of shower support.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jolane G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location
This unit worked very well for us. We loved being within an easy walk to so many things. Communication with the host was very good. Beach towels, games and basic supplies were all provided. The garage was not usable for us to park in as there are vines that make the opening too narrow and we didn’t want to scratch our car. But we only had one car so it was fine to park in the Driveway. The back yard also wasn’t usable for us. The outdoor furniture wasn’t clean and the ‘grass’ was mostly dirt with gopher trails. The neighborhood was quiet and felt safe. The check in and out processes were easy. Minor improvements to the yard, and adding more dishes would be nice. We had issues with the front door lock, but that was a minor thing since we could also go out the back door or garage. Overall great stay.
Stayed 10 nights in May 2023

2/10 Terrible

Nagaraja G.

Liked: Check-in, location
Disliked: Cleanliness, communication, listing accuracy
Dusty and unclean interior/bedding with lot of pet hair
The property location is good but the property is not cleaned and well maintained either. I paid for extra cleaning for the COVID but found there was nothing cleaned and not even a usual vacuum done since I found lot of pet hair and dust all around. Towels were okay but the beds were full of dust and torn out as well. The bed-spreads were not cleaned either. I had to cut short our stay to one night instead of two nights with the condition of the property being so scary
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021

6/10 Okay

diane a.

Liked: Check-in, location
Disliked: Cleanliness
Great location
On the positive side, it was a great location, as advertised. It was roomy enough for 3 adults. The kitchen appliances and countertops were upgraded as in the photos. The fridge and kitchen and bathroom were clean. The reason we did not give this rating higher than 3 is that it is an older building, in need of a good refresh. It's also a very dark space, but then you can walk a few blocks to the ocean for sunlight and air! The floors were filthy (i.e. our feet or socks were black within a few minutes after showering). The manager of the property responded if we left a voicemail, but not always right away, and once not for a couple of hours (when we were having trouble locking the house with the key code). The other little issues were that the dryer took a long time to dry (4 times as long as at home...) and the toilet sometimes plugged up. Final note: we're Canadians and don't mind the cold but if you are not used to the cold, the heater only heats the kitchen area, and the warmth doesn't make its way to the bedrooms. All in all, I would recommend renting this place if you're not worried about a pristine rental, as it suited us just fine for the 3 days.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

4/10 Poor

Monique B.

Liked: Location
Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Worst communication EVER! And DIRTY floors!
This was our first time using VRBO, so didn’t realize that when we didn’t get our access codes to the house even on the day of, we figured we would get them by the 3pm check in time… no. We traveled 8 hours to the location, had dinner plans at 6, and were supposed to check in at 3. 3:15 we arrived. We thought maybe the codes are at the property? Nope. Called our host. Nothing. Texted. Nothing. Called a couple of times more. Finally on the 3rd call the woman answers and literally says “can you stop! I’m on my way to the house” and hangs up. Clearly she knew we were calling, but no hello? Sorry? Hi??? Nope. So we waited. 45 minutes. Still nothing. We called VRBO customer service, they apologize, say they don’t have the codes, and call the husband. He said he had no idea where his wife was… ok. What do we do? We wanted to clean up and shower- it’s almost 4:30, still not in the house or have any codes. Finally almost 2 hours after check in time, we get an email (presumably the one we should have gotten the day before) with our access codes. We never saw our host- even though she said she was “on her way”. Finally get in, it’s ok. Perfect location, but the floors were dirty, the towels smelled like wet dog and there were so many weird construction miscues… a spot with no flooring, just wood, an extension cord attached to the microwave near the stove that should be secured and not just hanging around, the lamp was broken, just not what we were expecting. Clearly we were late to dinner, not a good start to our vacation. The rest of the week was fine. We were happy to bring the trash cans out to the road, but there were no directions as to what day was trash day. Other vacation rentals we’ve stayed at had that clearly noted. It would have been much better if our host was polite, cared a little, and had a lot more consideration for the people paying to stay at her home! I would not rent from this host EVER again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

About the host

Hosted by Diana and Shay

Host profile image

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback