I stayed with Jenni and Doug for a month and it was a great home-base from where to explore the Santa Cruz area. The studio is separate from their living area, so it is very private set-up, more like a hotel room. You have a fridge and a microwave which is super-convenient, when you don't want to eat out all the time. Just be aware you won't have access to a real kitchen.
Jenni and Doug are very nice - just reach out to them when you need something. Make sure to ask them about how to get to Brighton Beach (definitely one of my favorite beaches to hang out and relax in the SC area).