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Bright, artsy, and cozy home 500 feet from the beach, 500 feet from the river

Family-friendly vacation home in Aptos

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Photo gallery for Bright, artsy, and cozy home 500 feet from the beach, 500 feet from the river

Beach nearby
Exterior
Smart TV, fireplace, books
Smart TV, fireplace, books
Terrace/patio

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 41000 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

View in a map
Aptos, CA
  • Place, Rio Del Mar Beach
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Seacliff State Beach
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Seascape Golf Club
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪48 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Aptos

Located in Rio del Mar, this vacation home is adjacent to Rio Del Mar Beach and within a 5-minute walk of Seacliff State Beach. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a patio.
View more Vacation Homes in AptosOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Rio Del Mar Beach - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Seacliff State Beach - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Cabrillo College - 2 min drive - 1.6 miles
  • Seascape Golf Club - 3 min drive - 1.8 miles

Getting around

  • San Martin Caltrain Station - 45 min drive
  • Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal) - 18 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Whale City Bakery Bar And Grill Aptos - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Poki Bowl - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Marianne's Ice Cream - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Sushi Garden - Aptos - ‬16 min walk

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Bright, artsy, and cozy home 500 feet from the beach, 500 feet from the river

The Coast Queen is a wonderful house for a pleasant getaway to the coast for the weekend. It's a perfect place for a family, a couple or even two couples. It's a short two minute walk to the beach (and coffee shop, deli, corner market, and restaurants) providing a great anchor for days at the beach, yet it's only a few miles from Santa Cruz to enjoy the wonderful food, and activities in Santa Cruz.
Rio Del Mar is one of the last of the quaint, small village areas on the central coast. You can walk about a mile north from here, and seemingly endless miles south. We are close to the cement ship as well.

The house has been recently remodeled, with new floors and appliances in a full-stocked, fully functional kitchen. The deck upstairs is a wonderful place to hang out on sunny and shady days, along with an outdoor grill and comfortable seating.

There are flat screen televisions both upstairs and downstairs, along with cable and free Netflix. We also have high speed internet.

We have a car port for two cars off street parking.
We are a legally permitted vacation rental in Santa Cruz County.

We also have - special for kids - a Harry Potter closet! It is equipped with a super comfy mattress-type thing, and pillows. (We are still waiting for an owl to find us.) Kids have been known to read books there for hours, sleep there, and play spooky games there too. (There is good light in there, for those who want it.)

We are dog friendly BUT WE HAVE A PET POLICY. If you are interested in bringing a dog you MUST tell us at the time of booking. We will share our pet policy and you must agree to it. If you do not tell us you are bringing a dog (and agree to our pet policy), we will charge an extra $200 cleaning fee.

We have a general maximum of four adults. If you plan on having more than 4 adults, you need to check with us. We charge an extra fee of $20 per night for extra adults.
The vacation home is heated and features a kitchen, 1.5 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.

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Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car required
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1.5 bathrooms
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Tile flooring in public areas
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Note from host: We do not allow smoking on the property.

Location highlights

  • Near a hospital
  • Near the marina
  • Near the sea

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Local artist showcase
  • Local culture and ecosystem education
  • Recycling
  • Unit size: 1,000 square feet
  • Water-efficient toilets

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 12:00 PM

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Make sure the heater is off!
Send me a message letting me know you’re leaving. Thanks!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Please be aware of water use: we are in a drought. Do not overload the washing machine, as it will stop working! Lock all windows when leaving.

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, guests can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees
  • Note from host: Please contact us for details.

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
We do not allow smoking on the property.

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 12:00 PM
  • Minimum check-in age: 25

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

500 Feet Ocean 500 Feet River House Aptos
500 Feet Ocean 500 Feet River Aptos
500 Feet Ocean 500 Feet River
House
500 Feet From the Ocean 500 Feet From the River
500 Feet From the Ocean, 500 Feet From the River Aptos

Frequently asked questions

What's there to see around this vacation home?

This vacation home is situated in Rio del Mar, just steps from Rio Del Mar Beach and Seacliff State Beach. You'll also find Capitola Beach and Seascape Golf Club within a short drive.

Is there parking available at this vacation home?

Yes, there is a garage.

Is this vacation home adjacent to a casino?

No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?

No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.

Is Bright, artsy, and cozy home 500 feet from the beach, 500 feet from the river a good place to stay for couples?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this vacation home include a fireplace, a kitchen, and a smart TV.

Does Bright, artsy, and cozy home 500 feet from the beach, 500 feet from the river have a hot tub?

No, this vacation home doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this vacation home offer breakfast?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this vacation home allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although pets can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.

Does this vacation home have connecting rooms?

No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How far is the airport from this vacation home?

The closest major airport to this vacation home is Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal), which is 8.7 mi away (18 minutes by car). Another top airport is Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), which is around 26.2 mi away.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Bright, artsy, and cozy home 500 feet from the beach, 500 feet from the river?

Yes, every accommodation at Bright, artsy, and cozy home 500 feet from the beach, 500 feet from the river comes with a deck.

Bright, artsy, and cozy home 500 feet from the beach, 500 feet from the river Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 112 out of 134 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 17 out of 134 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 134 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 134 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 134 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Staff & service

6.0/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

8/10 Good

diana l.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful hosts
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Karen B., Dublin, CA

Liked: Cleanliness
Host easy to communicate with. Property location was perfect. Kids 11 and 13, and the dog, all had fun boogie boarding and playing on the sand. Beach bathrooms a plus. House was comfortable. I really liked the artsy decor. Kitchen well equipped with coffee maker, air fryer, basics for cooking, and dishwasher. Laundry was nice to have the option. The host also includes shampoo, conditioner and body wash in the shower which we appreciated. A few food options within walking distance. We are hoping to plan a trip back next year!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Laurie M.

Disliked: Cleanliness
Great location!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

B. Q.

Liked: Cleanliness
This is our 2nd stay here. It's so comfortable and has a nice big deck. Our stay for the
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Natalie C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Katherine M., Orinda, CA

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay!

Love the location. Bedrooms are a bit small, but living room and deck are great
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Justin R.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sarajane S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

C F.

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness

Cozy and Quaint

Listening to the waves while sipping coffee on the deck will be a favorite memory!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gerald S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Quiet, and roomy unit

Very comfortable for a family or couple (two bathrooms).Walkable to beach in quiet neigborhood.Met all our needs.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Greig C., Berkeley, California, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

2/10 Terrible

Linda K.

Disliked: Cleanliness

Not as advertised

Was not esthetically pleasing indoors or out. Items that should have been included in the house were missing.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

judith l.

Liked: Cleanliness

Aptos visit

Very clean. Easy walk to beach
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christi M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place by the beach

This is our second time staying here and we love it. It is walking distance to the ocean and a great walking path. Owner is quick to respond and we loved having coffee on the balcony. A fire pit or a hot tub would make this place perfect !.tuoumake this perf td perf
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gerald S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Spacious cottage on the bay

Great space for a family- two bedrooms, two bathrooms and large outdoor deck. Well stocked kitchen. Only meal we prepared was breakfast. Quick walk to beach. As tennis fans, we were delighted to get the channel for the U S Open. Comfy furnishings. Limited stores within walking distance. Many restaurants and coffee spots several miles away.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ron-Barbara O.

Liked: Cleanliness

So close to the beach!

The house is very nice. So close to the beach. Has everything you need for a comfortable stay. And the owner is quick to respond.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Caroline O.

Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Donna P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Naoko C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Theresa V.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place

Good location, clean and comfortable. I would choose this rental again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Colleen R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beach Retreat

There was plenty of room to spread out. I appreciated the heater in the master bedroom. It was very comfortable and super close to the beach and coffee shop!!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ray O., Roseville, USA

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Beach Getaway

Great time spending a sunny winter-day at the beach. Great location! Home was nicely decorated, comfortable and beachy. I appreciated the check in emails from the owner, the easy/secure parking and large outdoor deck.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bruno H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Santa Cruz

Very comfortable home great location and very quiet.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Callie H., Grass Valley

Liked: Cleanliness

Great trip

Great, cozy, comfortable place! Enjoyed the accommodations very much!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023