Jeanell's penthouse loft isn't just a "place to rent" but is an "experience" that must be had. The pictures are accurate - the views are tremendous, the sound of the ocean is uplifting and lying on the patio bed and staring at the ocean with the sun on-top will easily consume hours without moving. The loft has glass ceilings so I fell asleep with the moon shining down and the stars in the sky. There are many hidden surprises that you wont appreciate until you try it. For example, the outdoor shower: though it was a tad bit difficult on a windy night, you are looking down the coastline while soaping up - it's awesome. The hottub was perfect: look up there is the moon and the stars.. look straight and you see/hear the ocean. it's so quiet at night you can actually hear "silence" between the crashing of the waves - it's wonderful.
Jeanell's hospitality is also top notch - she was there to let me in and left a thoughtful care package! she was invisible afterwards and it was never an issue to get in/out of the house, as you have your own keys. The fridge was stocked with a few basics and some donuts which were impossible to resist. The only negative really is that the Keurig needed a cleaning on my last day - which is so insignificant compared to the wonderfulness of the place.
The surrounding area, Aptos, is actually very charming and met many friendly people working at the local stores: Aptos St. BBQ, burger. Aptos, SoulSalad, Peet's all had friendly people and good food.
Thanks again Jeanell - will see you again soon!