Family-friendly vacation rentals in Santa Cruz

Find and book unique family-friendly homes on Airbnb

Quick stats about vacation rentals that are family-friendly in Santa Cruz

  • Total vacation rentals

    Explore 840 vacation rentals in Santa Cruz

  • Nightly prices starting at

    Santa Cruz vacation rentals start at ﺩ.ﺇ 257 per night before taxes and fees

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 62,970 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Pet-friendly vacation rentals

    Find 270 rentals that welcome pets

  • Vacation rentals with a pool

    60 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    390 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    830 of Santa Cruz vacation rentals include wi-fi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Kitchen, Wifi, and Pool across Santa Cruz rentals

  • 4.9 Average rating

    Santa Cruz stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.9 out of 5!

Top-rated family-friendly rentals in Santa Cruz

Guests agree: these family-friendly homes are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Top guest favorite
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
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 171 reviews

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

Guest favorite
A uniquely designed treehouse is elevated among the trees, showcasing large glass windows and wooden beams. A wooden walkway leads up to the structure, enhancing the connection with the surrounding natural environment.
Treehouse in Aptos
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 605 reviews

Peaceful Treehouse with Ocean View

Permit 171035 Featured by Sunset Magazine as a “chic escape,” this Peaceful Treehouse-style retreat blends mid-century design with natural materials like wood and stone for a calming, sanctuary feel. Light pours through floor-to-ceiling windows beneath soaring wooden beams, and Japanese-inspired doors add to the architectural charm. Set high in the trees with ocean views, the home offers three elevated decks including one with a hammock. Perfect for relaxing and enjoying the surrounding canopy.

Top guest favorite
A charming two-story cottage is presented with a vibrant blue exterior, accented by a large yellow circle. Palm trees frame the scene, with a welcoming front porch featuring a railing. The surrounding area consists of a quiet street and neighboring houses, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.
Home in Capitola
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 336 reviews

Steps to Capitola Beach♦King Bed♦EVCharger♦Pets OK

Recently renovated with hardwood floors & stainless steel appliances. Spend your next beach getaway in the heart of the Capitola Village, a 3 minute walk to the beach, restaurants & shopping. This lovely 2-bedroom house has a private balcony w/a BBQ & sleeps up to 6. Level 2 EV charger in garage. Convenient Amenities Include: *Self check-in *Wireless Internet *Dog Friendly - 1 dog (40lbs +/- max) *Parking for 1 car in the attached garage (w/EV Charger) *Roku TV with Netflix, Disney+, YouTube

Top guest favorite
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.
Guesthouse in Upper Seabright
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 760 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.

Top guest favorite
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.
Home in Santa Cruz
5 out of 5 average rating, 203 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!

Top guest favorite
A private swimming pool is surrounded by lounge chairs under shade umbrellas. The pool, featuring a gentle curve, has clear blue water and an entry step. Lush greenery and a fence provide privacy, while distant views of a serene landscape can be seen in the background.
Home in Aptos
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 243 reviews

Private Pool Villa for family getaways

Looking for a comfy space to spend time with friends and family? Beach or great outdoors more your thing? 10 minutes from Seacliff State Beach and 12 minutes to Nisene Marks, this sunny locale is your comfortable home base for your next adventure. Why not just hang out by the pool? The water typically stays comfortable for swimming from April-September. Enjoy dining for 8 inside or on the patio. So close to the sea, but above the foggier lower elevations. Family friendly!

Top guest favorite
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
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 494 reviews

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.

Top guest favorite
A private living room features a wooden cabinet and a dark blue armchair beside a window with natural light. A small refrigerator and kettle are visible. A woven rug lies on the wooden floor, with magazines resting nearby, and greenery adds a touch of color.
Home in Upper Seabright
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 691 reviews

Town-and-Nature

Three beautiful, quiet, private and secure rooms within our home, with separate entrance. PLEASE NOTE: It is part of a home, not entire home as listing heading implies, due to Airbnb's limited choices. Lovely garden with outside sitting area. 20 minute footpath/walk to beach through green belt and harbor, great restaurants nearby including three at the beach, short drive to downtown for live music and arts. Host is German, practices acupuncture.

Guest favorite
A spacious deck features comfortable adirondack chairs arranged around a fire pit, with the ocean and lagoon visible in the background. Eucalyptus trees provide shade and a natural ambiance, enhancing the serene atmosphere of this outdoor space.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 128 reviews

Beach View Cottage - Hot Tub

Gorgeous, newly remodeled, home with amazing views of the ocean, beach, and lagoon. Hot tub, bikes, surfboards, kayak. Everything you could possibly want for a Santa Cruz trip in a spectacular setting VR PERMIT # 191354 Just 200 yards from the beach, this tranquil beach view cottage is your perfect beachside escape. Located on a quiet, private street in Pleasure Point, this charming and newly updated two-story home offers stunning ocean views.

Top guest favorite
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
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 414 reviews

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!

Top guest favorite
The exterior of a newly renovated two-story home features a light-colored facade with a shingled design. Lush landscaping includes colorful flowers and greenery, enhancing the entrance. A spacious balcony is visible on the second floor, providing an inviting feel to the property's façade.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 129 reviews

Two-Six Beach House - newly renovated!

Experience luxury and comfort in our newly renovated Santa Cruz home! (Permit: 231143) This spacious retreat features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a spacious living room, and a fully equipped kitchen with everything you could need and more. Relax in the backyard with a firepit, hot tub, outdoor shower, and BBQ. Best of all, the beach is just a couple minutes away! Perfect for families and friends seeking a coastal getaway.

Top guest favorite
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.
Home in Santa Cruz
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 844 reviews

26th Ave Beach Home. 1 block to beach.

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.

Popular amenities for Santa Cruz family-friendly rentals

When is the best time to visit Santa Cruz?

MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg. priceﺩ.ﺇ 1,223ﺩ.ﺇ 1,205ﺩ.ﺇ 1,296ﺩ.ﺇ 1,263ﺩ.ﺇ 1,296ﺩ.ﺇ 1,498ﺩ.ﺇ 1,623ﺩ.ﺇ 1,542ﺩ.ﺇ 1,326ﺩ.ﺇ 1,263ﺩ.ﺇ 1,355ﺩ.ﺇ 1,351
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