OCEAN VIEW - HILLSIDE SANCTUARY WITH THERAPEUTIC SWIM SPA
NO PETS (Including Service Animals. Sorry, we have allergies.) - NO SMOKING - NO PARTIES OR EVENTS
This sunny hillside 2 level home with ocean view is perfect for a weekend getaway or an extended sabbatical. The beautiful "ocean view", and manicured garden with gazebo, all come together to offer you the perfect escape. The swim spa is perfect for relaxing in the evening, or a therapeutic aqu massage any time. Our local beach is 0.8 of a mile away, and there are plenty of local attractions, and fine dining is close by.
The upper and lower decks are perfect for entertaining, BBQing, or watching the sunset. The back garden, with its beautiful plantings, and gazebo, are a perfect retreat for morning coffee or afternoon tea, or cocktails.
* ALL BEDDING, LINENS, AND BATH TOWELS ARE PROVIDED. (BEACH TOWELS NOT PROVIDED) * FREE HIGH SPEED WIRELESS INTERNET * WI-FI PRINTER AVAILABLE * FREE UNLIMITED US PHONE CALLS * OUTSIDE SECURITY CAMERAS INSTALLED FOR YOUR SAFETY
UPPER LEVEL INCLUDES: The main LIVING ROOM area, which has an open floor plan with cathedral open beamed ceiling, and beautiful hand scraped solid white oak flooring. There is a 52-inch 4K HDTV, with Xfinity TV /DVR, a Blue Ray Disk player, and a Bluetooth Sound Bar to stream your music apps.
Forced air central heating, keeps the home cozy and warm in winter.
The modern GOURMET KITCHEN is equipped with all Viking appliances, and dishwasher. All cookware, cooking utensils, dishes, and silverware are provided. The dining area table seats up to 6 guests. The upper deck has patio chairs for 6 guests, and a cocktail table. The BBQ grill is propane gas.
The MASTER BEDROOM, which is on the upper level, has a queen bed, walk-in closet, chest of drawers, and a sitting area, a vanity sink area, and full bathroom, with tub & shower combo.
DOWN STAIRS - "CAUTION", there are stairs leading from the Living Room to the lower level. If you have small children, it is suggested that you bring your own barrier /gate, as there is none provided. LOWER LEVEL INCLUDES: Bedroom 2 - has a queen bed, a full mirrored closet, chest of drawers, and a beautiful view of the garden, and a 24" Samsung HDTV, with Amazon Fire Stick for streaming.
Office - includes work desk, office chair, LAN cable for direct internet hook-up, wi-fi printer. Access to the lower deck, garden, and Swim Spa are on the lower level, through the office.
DISCLAIMER: SECURITY CAMERAS – For your security, and the security of our property, there are Security Cameras located outside ONLY. Two cameras are located in the front of the house, facing the driveway and front door entry. One camera is on the lower deck, focused on the sliding glass door and gate entrance ONLY. These cameras are FIXED, and are not movable. We, not a "service", are the only ones that have direct access to the camera recording system. If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know.
Permit #241175 TOT Certificate # CO04422
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Please refer to the Check-Out Procedures in the INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS document you received in the booking confirmation email.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
The max guests overnight (4). The max occupancy including visitors (4). Guests over max may result in termination of booking, and eviction.
CHILDREN UNDER 6 YEARS OLD ARE NOT ALLOWED IN THE SWIM SPA AT ANY TIME.
NO ONE ALLOWED IN THE SPA AFTER 10 PM OR BEFORE 8 AM. NOISE CURFEW FROM 10:00 PM TO 8:00 AM.
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
Note from host: NO PARTIES OR EVENTS.
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 and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Property Registration Number Permit #241175 TOT Certificate # CO04422
About the area
Aptos
Located in Rio del Mar, a neighbourhood in Aptos, this holiday home is near theme parks and by the sea. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a popular attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Capitola Beach and Monterey Bay. Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History 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.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - 19 min drive - 18.3 km
Mystery Spot - 21 min drive - 17.1 km
Getting around
Gilroy Station - 40 min drive
Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal) - 14 min drive
Restaurants
Whale City Bakery Bar And Grill Aptos - 4 min drive
Poki Bowl - 5 min drive
Starbucks - 4 min drive
Erik's DeliCafé - 5 min drive
Venus Cocktails & Kitchen - 4 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is OCEAN VIEW - HILLSIDE SANCTUARY WITH THERAPEUTIC SWIM SPA pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at OCEAN VIEW - HILLSIDE SANCTUARY WITH THERAPEUTIC SWIM SPA?
As of 4 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at OCEAN VIEW - HILLSIDE SANCTUARY WITH THERAPEUTIC SWIM SPA on 4 January 2027 start from NZ$659, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at OCEAN VIEW - HILLSIDE SANCTUARY WITH THERAPEUTIC SWIM SPA?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at OCEAN VIEW - HILLSIDE SANCTUARY WITH THERAPEUTIC SWIM SPA?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at OCEAN VIEW - HILLSIDE SANCTUARY WITH THERAPEUTIC SWIM SPA?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is OCEAN VIEW - HILLSIDE SANCTUARY WITH THERAPEUTIC SWIM SPA located?
Located in Rio del Mar, this holiday home is within 1 mile (2 km) of Seascape Golf Club, Beer Can Beach and Rio Del Mar Beach. Seacliff State Beach and The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Our stay was great! The house was well accommodated and the owner was super nice. It is in a really nice, quiet neighborhood and I would definitely stay here again.
Anthony C.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 July 2025
Thank you Anthony for taking such good care of our home. We welcome you back anytime!
We had a fantastic stay at Michael’s home. Wish we had stayed longer to enjoy it more along with the Aptos beaches! Michael is the perfect host - terrifically responsive and his place is spotless.
We enjoyed our time at this property and felt very comfortable. The spa was great and the host Michael was very responsive and easy to communicate with!
A very nice Santa Cruz adjacent house walking distances to a small outdoor mall in a very quiet neighborhood. I would certainly recommend this to friends.
We’ve been all over the central coast for various holidays (including the resort at seascape down the road) and this was by far the best lodging experience we’ve ever had. Michael was very friendly and communicative, and the house was extremely clean and easy to manage/navigate. The beach is less than a mile away (walkable) and the neighborhood itself is very nice to stroll around. We look forward to returning when we can!
Ahana D.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 July 2025
Thank you Ahana for taking such good care of our home. I’m happy to hear that you found our place to your liking. We welcome you back!
Ocean view deck with a BBQ, great location , great local gourmet market, well appointed house with everything you need including great jacuzzi !
Neil K.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2020
Thanks Neil! I was glad we were finally allowed to have vacation renters after the restrictions were lifted. You were our first guests of the season. I was happy to have been able to host you and your golf buddies. You are welcome back anytime.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
debbie S.
12 January 2016
Excellent rental - home from home!
We stayed at this property at xmas and we were really impressed. The kitchen is fitted out with everything you need for your stay. Everything is comfortable and spotlessly clean. What more can you want?
debbie S.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2015
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2020
Thanks Debbie. I'm so glad we were able to accommodate you and your family on Christmas Eve. It was a true "Christmas story", minus the manger and animals.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Amy P.
9 April 2018
Flawless!
Great experience from the start. Beautifully furnished throughout with a true chef’s kitchen! We look forward to future visits!
Amy P.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2020
Thanks Amy! We would love to have you back.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
janay a.
24 September 2016
Great stay
We booked this place for a wedding at Seascape. Michael was very accommodating and always available for any questions. The home was clean and well cared for, with everything clearly labeled and easy to find. Will definitely be back.
janay a.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Matt F.
12 October 2015
Just as nice as can be
All I can say is that this place is beautiful in every way. Very clean and comfortable, very nicely decorated, nice view and amazing back garden and swim hot tub. I can't think of any way it could possibly be any better, Michael's figured out everything perfectly. It is an absolute honor to have stayed there.
Matt F.
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2020
Wow Matt, "an honor", really?. It was our honor to have you stay at our place. You understood why we love it there and appreciated being able to share the experience. Owners LOVE renters like you. We welcome you back.
Perfectly kept home with labels for everything you could ever need to find. Relaxing backyard with a view from the deck and a swim spa to relax in nightly. Very kind owners and easy interactions. Highly recommend!
Jennifer D.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2020
Thank you for being great guests! You are always welcome back!
The rental is amazing. All the great amenities in rental and then some. Great ocean view. Centrally located so you are just a couple of miles from Capitola and Santa Cruz. Sea Cliff beach is beautiful. The communication with the owner was great. He made everything so easy and welcoming. We will definitely be returning for another vacation stay.
This house was a great base from which to explore. The kitchen was incredibly well stocked with both pantry items, condiments and small appliances. The owner’s directions were very clear, and the swim spa (think Michael Phelps) was pretty fun. (I wish I’d brought a kick board!)
We stayed 5 nights, it was relaxing, quiet, and beautiful. Michael is very good at communication. He is always responsible my questions promptly. Love his swimming spa, we used almost every night.
We got immediate confirmation, checkin was a breeze, owner responsive with questions. House was clean, location was 20 min walk to the local beach. The hot tub was great. Kitchen fully stocked with everything, We cooked each night. We love this area, it was a wonderful getaway for our family. Thank you Michael.
Beautiful house in Aptos with great deck, large hot tub, and inviting garden. Easy access to beach and redwoods. Michael was wonderful to work with, and very reassuring to rent from during COVID. We had to stay inside the last day due to smoke from nearby fires, and felt lucky to have such a lovely shelter. Could easily have accommodated a other couple or our college age children, but appreciated the time to ourselves. Highly recommended.
Gina C.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 25 August 2020
Thank you Gina! I'm glad we were available for your getaway for two. Thanks for taking such good care of our home.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Phil d.
12 June 2015
Hillside Sanctuary is Accurate!
This rental couldn't have been better! I would highly recommend staying here due to the rental cleanliness, comfortable layout, prime location, great owner customer service, and resources available such as labeled cabinets, detailed instructions, huge therapeutic spa, and high grade kitchen supplies. I will definitely be looking into this rental the next time I am in the Santa Cruz area. Thank you, Michael and Hing for the great rental experience!
Phil d.
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2020
Thank you guys for taking such good care of our house. You are welcome back anytime.
We had a wonderful stay at this lovely home. It was very clean, organized and so comfortable for our family. We were able to find everything we needed. The beds were comfortable and the kitchen was well-stocked with every appliance, dish, glass, piece of cookware and utensil we could ever need. The garden and grounds were beautiful and provided a place to relax outside. The house is conveniently located near a nice grocery store and CVS pharmacy. It’s also a quick drive to Hwy 1. Thank you to the owner, Michael, for clear communication and being so responsive prior, during and after our trip.
Chyresse H.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 9 July 2020
Thank you for being such wonderful guests. Any vacation property owner would love to have you stay at their place.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
James A.
14 August 2016
Very comfortable for 5 adults
Our family of five adults stayed 5 nights and really enjoyed our stay. The house was very attractive and comfortable, with lots of amenities and had the best stocked kitchen of any place we've ever stayed. The walk to the beach was about 15 minutes, and if you have a lot to carry and don't want to walk as much, you can usually park easily near beach entrances on either end of Via Palo Alto. Communications with Michael were prompt and helpful. Everything was very much as described. Thanks for a great visit.
James A.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2020
Thank you for taking such good care of our home. Owners love renter like you.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Steve R.
13 August 2018
Awesome Place
We were very impressed on how well the property is maintained. Awesome kitchen great appliances plenty of utensils. Swim spa was extremely clean and functioned like it should. I have stayed at many rentals and sometimes the pictures and reviews don’t match. The clubhouse dr. House was top shelf. Super clean.
Cudos to owner for the detail they do to make your stay hassle free.
Thanks
Steve & Sharon R.
Steve R.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2020
Thanks Steve and Sharon! We aim to please. My philosophy is that if the house is clean and organized, most people appreciate the effort, and try to leave it that way.
Archival
8/10 Good
Robert P.
23 June 2017
great location, well appointed, great hot tub
6 friends stayed the last 3 nights. Everything was better than we expected - except: the bed in the 3rd bedroom(office) is a twin and very hard. We think the property would be better for 4 or the owner get a better hide-a-bed.
Otherwise we recommend the property enthusiastically. Easy access from the highway; quiet neighborhood; supermarket nearby; wireless excellent; great hot tub; kitchen elaborately stocked; tv and sound system excellent. We would come back anytime with a better bed.
Robert P.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2020
We never got a chance to discuss the sleeping arrangements.
Just to be clear, the beds for each bedroom are described in the property description on our listing. "In the 3rd bedroom /office, there is a fold down full sized "sofa sleeper", and in the closet is a twin roll-away bed, and all the bedding is included (paraphrased)".
There is a brand new sofa sleeper upstairs in the livingroom, which has a 5 inch memory foam mattress. I would have suggested you use it if you found the roll-away uncomfortable. I assumed you would have discovered it was a sofa bed. My apologies.
If there's such a thing as a 'Hosting Award', Michael Taravella should get one! His attention to detail in the description of his property gets even better before, during and after your stay. He is such a delight and so considerate to take the time to chat by phone before we arrived and made it easy to understand all aspects of the house. The house is so immaculate and set up like a 5-star resort where you can enjoy top of the line cooking appliances, utensils, bedding. etc. The location is great; easy getting to Santa Cruz, Capitola, etc. Thank you, Michael, for being so kind and communitive. Until we meet again, Barbara and Lisa
Barbara L.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 August 2024
Thank you Barbara for the glowing review. And thank you again for taking such wonderful care of our home. I will be happy to share it with you in the future.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Margaret B.
10 December 2017
Very Comfortable/Well Appointed
We've been staying in VRBOs for 20+ years. This house stands out as one that was exceptionally clean and very well appointed. The kitchen has labels on everything so you know where to find what you're looking for and where to return it so that the guests after you have the same ease of use. An added bonus: the pantry and fridge were stocked with more than the bare minimum. I had forgotten dessert and my daughter was craving chocolate. There was hot cocoa to be found, which hit the spot! Thank you for those added touches!
Margaret B.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2020
Thanks Margaret! I am so glad you enjoyed your stay. You are always welcome back.
About the host
Hosted by Michael Taravella
I have been a Personal Chef / business owner since 1998, serving my clients in Silicon Valley. As of May, 2019, I have retired as a Personal Chef, and am now managing our Vacation Rental properties in Aptos, and South Lake Tahoe, CA.
Why they chose this property
This is our second home. We plan on making this place our permanent home, someday.
What makes this property unique
I love the coastal life-style, scenery, and wonderful neighbors.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests