This was our first Airbnb experience and it set the standards high! Ray and Cathy were very accommodating. The communication prior to our visit was excellent. Ray and Cathy provided nice little extra touches (loved the Lindor...my favorite chocolate!). The in-room washer and dryer were a nice bonus after hiking in Yosemite the days prior to our visit, and the use of the aquarium and state park passes made this an exceptional value.
I was initially concerned that we were too far from some of our intended sight seeing locations not knowing traffic situations. The drive to the aquarium and Point Lobos State Park wasn't bad at all. It was a short 15 minutes to Moss Landing (fabulous whale watching!). If you are planning to visit both Monterey Bay and Santa Cruz, this is a great location.
Being a first time Airbnb user, I also wasn't sure what to expect of shared space with strangers. Ray and Cathy were available when needed, either in the home or through personal cell numbers, but also gave us our privacy.
I don't want to forget to mention that they have a very sweet and friendly dog, Oscar!