Family-friendly vacation rentals in Santa Cruz County

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 188 reviews

An A-Frame cabin is surrounded by lush greenery, positioned on elevated ground. A stone pathway leads to the entrance, flanked by wooden railings. The cabin features large glass panels on its façade, allowing natural light to flood the interior. A deck with seating overlooks the nature surroundings.

Cabin in Felton

Santa Cruz A-Frame

This unique A-Frame cabin, in a quiet mountain neighborhood with private creek access, was handbuilt in 1965 and remodeled in the summer of 2024. Now a little slice of heaven on the creek in the redwoods. *5-10 min to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Roaring Camp Railroad, Loch Lomond Recreation Area, the Trout Farm Inn, Quail Hollow Ranch + Felton stores. *20 min to Santa Cruz, beach + Boardwalk. *1 min to Zayante Creek Market (EV charger) Find us on social: Insta @SantaCruzAFrame

Guesthouse in Upper Seabright

A cozy living space is presented with a daybed adorned with an assortment of colorful pillows, complemented by a natural wood coffee table. Light enters through large windows, highlighting a vibrant piece of wall art. A small desk and chair are positioned nearby.

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 770 reviews

Sunny Harborside Bungalow

Private small cozy 1 br/1ba bungalow. This space boasts a taste of Latin American beach, tile floors and wood furniture. Kitchenette with an induction burner and xl toaster oven (no range) , full size fridge, private patio seating, umbrella, tropical plants. Bathroom with a small shower. Curtained off bedroom with full closet, queen bed. Living room has day bed/couch with twin mattress for 3rd guest. Plz read “other details to note” before booking, turn on app notifications for communication.

The view captures the ocean and sandy beach from a spacious deck, framed by tall trees. Clear blue skies and calm waters are visible, while a dining area with wooden chairs is set up on the deck, inviting relaxation and enjoyment of the surroundings.

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 214 reviews

Beach Front Dream House! Hottub/E-Bikes/Surfboards

Permit# 231467 Incredible modern home just steps from the best beach in all of Santa Cruz! Ocean and sand views, listen to the waves as you sleep on designer beds, cook in the chefs kitchen, and soak in the hot tub. Perfect central location, less than 5 minutes to boardwalk and downtown. 5 minutes to colorful Capitola village. 9 minutes to UC Santa Cruz Campus. 4 Electric bikes, 4 surfboards, and a kayak to take out and play in the waves! Plus the beach is right out front to enjoy!

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 502 reviews

Two young goats wearing colorful knitted sweaters are seen foraging in a garden area. The goats, with their distinctive facial markings and playful demeanor, appear to be exploring among the greenery. The vibrant patterns on their sweaters add a touch of charm to the serene natural setting.

Farm stay in Aptos

Kinderwood Farm Stay • Animal & Culinary Adventure

*UPDATE Piglets born July 13 2026* Nestled in an enchanting forest of redwood trees & ferns, lies a treasured, sustainability-focused homestead, waiting for you to enjoy its bounty. This is a one of a kind, immersive culinary & farm adventure with cozy accommodations & unique experiences. Subject to availability, Add-On Activities may include goat milking & feeding baby goats, cheesemaking, sourdough, and soapmaking. Join us for a visit you will remember for a lifetime.

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 211 reviews

A wooden cabin is surrounded by tall redwood trees, featuring a large deck that extends around the building. The exterior showcases natural wood tones, with a chimney visible and a large window that invites light into the interior.

Cabin in Soquel

Redwood Ridge Retreat by the Sea

Unparalleled redwood seclusion at the top of a sunny ridge with a view of Monterey Bay. Just 10 mins to downtown Soquel and 15 mins to the Santa Cruz beaches. 40 mins to Silicon Valley, a rare property with a Big Sur feel close to everything. Vacation permit #191374. Enjoy cozy wood heat or cool shade provided by surrounding redwood and oaks. Extensive decks for outdoor dining, relaxing, yoga, sunbathing, birdwatching! We are happy to answer your questions!

The open-concept kitchen and living area feature a clean design with white cabinetry and a blue-tiled backsplash. A large window allows natural light to fill the space, illuminating the gray sofa and wooden coffee table. Four white bar stools are positioned at the kitchen island.

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 222 reviews

Serene luxury beach bungalow in Pleasure Point

Just steps away from the breathtaking Santa Cruz coast lies Bungalow318. This 1940's bungalow has been meticulously renovated and is ready for your relaxing retreat, romantic getaway, surfing adventure or family vacation. Relax in the open concept family room, enjoy a day at the beach or surfing world-class surf breaks, lounge in the hot tub and spend a cozy evening on the patio lounge in front of a warm fire. The ways to enjoy this special property are endless!

A bright entryway features a wooden front door with glass panels. To the left, a plush gray sofa is accompanied by a small side table. A dining space is visible through an archway, highlighted by two pendant lights above a wooden table. Green plants add a touch of nature.

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 279 reviews

Quiet Beach Cottage in the heart of Capitola

Nestled into the heart of Capitola, this beach cottage is walking distance to the best of Capitola (Rental Permit #261046). Newly remodeled stunning two bedroom home, two bath, with a Pottery Barn pull out couch, this home is built for comfort and relaxation. Walking distance to Capitola Village(1 mile) and pleasure point (.5). Just blocks to the beach, local breweries, restaurants, shopping and iconic surfing. This home was designed for a peaceful getaway!

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 144 reviews

A spacious living area features vaulted ceilings supported by wooden beams. A light-colored sofa and armchairs are arranged around a round coffee table. A wall art piece is visible, along with indoor plants, creating a comfortable and inviting space for relaxation.

Home in Felton

Mount Hermon Creekside Cottage

Have fun with the whole family at this adorable cottage nestled in the redwoods. (Permit Number 231151) Views of the creek and only steps to the conference center at Mount Hermon, less than 1/2 mile to the famous redwood forest of Henry Cowell; this home is perfect to stay in and relax or to go explore and use as a homebase. Newly remodeled kitchen, with everything you would need to host a dinner party, kids games, books, TV and so much more.

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 427 reviews

An open kitchen and living area are highlighted, featuring a modern counter with three bar stools. Bright wood flooring complements the white cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. A dining table for four is visible in the background, seamlessly connecting the spaces.

Home in Upper Seabright

Sunny Seabright Beach House

Sunny beach house located in Midtown, Santa Cruz. Amazing location with a five minute walk to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Just a few blocks from Seabright Beach, the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor and some of the best local restaurants and breweries in town. The home boasts a well-furnished rooftop deck, a beautiful open floor plan, and a fully equipped kitchen. This house is cozy, bright, and inviting. You will surely love your stay here!

An open-concept living area features high vaulted ceilings and large windows allowing natural light to fill the space. A cozy seating arrangement is highlighted by white sofas and a coffee table, while a dining table is set against the backdrop of a lush outdoor view.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 853 reviews

26thAve Beach House (Airbnb service fees included)

Newer custom built 2 BR/1BA 1,000 square foot home in 26th Ave beach/Pleasure Point area. 2 miles from Capitola Village, downtown Santa Cruz and the Boardwalk. Home is located 1 block away from 26th Ave. beach on a quiet dead end street with very little traffic. Located within walking distance to the best surf spots in Santa Cruz, including Pleasure Point, The Hook and 26th ave. Washer and dryer available.

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 362 reviews

Greenery surrounds the property, featuring an array of tall palm trees and lush vegetation. In the distance, a rolling hillside is visible against a blue sky mottled with clouds. A concrete path leads gently down the slope, enhancing the serene outdoor atmosphere.

Guest suite in Soquel

5 Acres Mountain Retreat - 2 BR / 1.5BA

SC County Short-Term Rental Permit #231090 Beautiful, two story, Mediterranean-style home. Private downstairs guest suite (750 sq ft) is available for our guests (2 bedrooms/1.5 baths/living area/kitchen nook). Mountain/Canyon views. Wildlife and tranquility. Lots of nearby restaurants. 5 mins to Capitola / 50 mins to Monterey/Carmel. Naima will be your hostess at the property.