Now that summer is winding down and the school year is underway, how about giving a fall/winter family vacation a thought? For families eager to get together safely, house rentals are still the way to go. We’ve rounded up our favorite rentals that accommodate multiple families that are not only spacious but have some pretty cool things to do for kids of all ages. Check out our picks from a San Francisco staycation to a road trip vacation.
Golden Gate Home, San Francisco
Just steps away from Golden Gate Park, this spacious home in Inner Sunset is great for a low-key, low-stress get-together with family. Take a trip to Ocean Beach, the local farmers market and tons of awesome restaurants and shops within walking distance.
Sleeps: 14
Cost: $548/night
Online: airbnb.com
Mission Dolores Flat, San Francisco
Perfect for families with babies and small children, this centrally located condo is just steps away from popular Valencia and Mission St. Take the complimentary stocked picnic basket for a day at Dolores Park, walk to restaurants, or do some shopping. Parents can rest easy knowing there are a ton of baby items available for use including high chairs, umbrella strollers, toys and books.
Sleeps: 9
Cost: $699/night
Online: airbnb.com
Endless Summer Home, Santa Cruz
Beach lovers can enjoy this spacious home in the heart of Santa Cruz with views of the ocean. On chilly nights, crank up the gas fireplace and curl up on the leather couch for movie night. This home is also made for families with two twin-over-twin bunk beds and baby essentials like booster seats, baby gates and a crib.
Sleeps: 10
Cost: $530/night
Online: airbnb.com
Gratitude Getaway, Sea Ranch
Get away from it all in a home designed for relaxation and connection. During the day, walk to Shell Beach or go on a family hike and explore. Then take in the beautiful sunset at golden hour on the patio while cooking up some burgers on the BBQ grill. After a long day, sit by the fireplace for family game night.
Sleeps: 10
Cost: $235/night
Online: airbnb.com
Lux Cabin for the Whole Crew, Lake Tahoe
Nestled in the woods of Fallen Leaf, this South Lake Tahoe family retreat has a view of the lake from every direction. Kids can hang out in the bunk room complete with a DVD player, TV and books to read. With space to lounge on the couch, cook a delicious meal, or take in the sunset on the private dock, memories can definitely be made here.
Sleeps: 12
Cost: $850/night
Online: airbnb.com
Golf Course Home with Hot Tub, Bodega Bay
Beautiful home with sweeping views of the golf course and beach, this hideaway is quiet but still close to The Bistro, clubhouse and beach. Three bedrooms in the main room as well as a detached guest suite for visitors can accommodate everyone. Kids can play a game of foosball while grownups relax in the hot tub.
Sleeps: 8
Cost: $550/night
Online: airbnb.com
Cozy Retreat Inside the Park, Yosemite
Located in Yosemite West, this luxurious 3,400 three-level chalet has enough space for everyone to stretch out comfortably while enjoying the park during the day. Gather around the fireplace and unwind, make some fondue in the fully stocked kitchen, or watch the sunset from the wrap-around deck.
Sleeps: 10
Cost: $769/night
Online: airbnb.com
Elmwood House with Pool, Berkeley
A perfect fit for large families (including pets) and multi-family get-togethers. The backyard oasis has fruit-lined trees of apples, cherries, figs and lemons. The heated pool was designed to look like a mountain swimming hole, and the hot tub has a waterfall. For family movie nights, a projector is available for use. Kids will love the toys and games as well as the indoor treehouse!
Sleeps: 12
Cost: $700
Online: airbnb.com
Coastal Seaside Retreat, Half Moon Bay
Drive up to this Half Moon Bay home and leave worries behind during your stay. Centrally located and within walking distance to popular restaurants like Sam’s Chowder House and the California Coastal Trail. Watch the sunset while grilling up some dinner on the BBQ grill and let the sounds of the waves take you to your happy place.
Sleeps: 10
Cost: $437/night
Online: airbnb.com
Family Home with Play House, San Rafael
East Bay residents can check out this family-friendly home with kids in mind when trying to accommodate a lot of guests. The big selling point is the detached playhouse and indoor playroom ready for little ones to enjoy. The backyard is fenced and kids can jump on the trampoline while adults relax on the beautiful deck.
Sleeps: 10
Cost: $858/night
Online: airbnb.com
Alpaca Farm House, Sonoma
Surrounded by lavender trees, vineyards and alpacas, this three-bedroom, two-bath tranquil home is perfect for families wanting to get together in Sonoma. Walk to wineries on a sunny afternoon or stroll through the aromatic lavender and butterfly gardens with the kids. After some wine tasting and some shopping downtown, sit out on one of the beautiful porches with a glass of wine.
Sleeps: 10
Cost: $830/night
Online: airbnb.com
Jug Handle Creek Farm, Mendocino
Just three miles from Mendocino, this 1870’s Victorian farmhouse is ideal for large families that need a lot of space. Enjoy the 32 acres to explore including plant nurseries, gardens, nature trails and only five minutes to the beach. The house has a music room, library, and a ton of toys and games for kids ages 2-10.
Sleeps: 15
Cost: $538/night
Online: airbnb.com
Wine Country Estate, Sebastopol
This beautiful 1890’s Victorian estate takes you back in time when you walk in, but the modern upgrades make it a great vacation spot near wine country. The house has four bedrooms and a den, hot tub, spacious backyard and huge game room with a pool table and TV that’ll surely keep the kids busy during the day.
Sleeps: 10
Cost: $644/night
Online: airbnb.com
Quiet Country Home, Monterey
If the thought of getting away to a place where you can listen to the birds in a beautiful garden brings you joy, check out this spacious home in Monterey. Tucked away yet close to the beach and downtown, it’s a great place to reconnect. The highlight is really the enormous backyard for kids to run around and play.
Sleeps: 10
Cost: $603/night
Online: airbnb.com
The Treehouse, Guerneville
Built on stilts around a giant tree growing out the hillside, this beautiful house sits atop the redwoods overlooking the Russian River. There are two units, which accommodate up to 10 guests altogether. There is a bit of a hike to get up to the house, and best suited for groups with older kiddos, but a vacation inside an actual treehouse is pretty awesome.
Sleeps: 10
Cost: $640/night
Online: airbnb.com
Mountain Vacation Home, Mammoth Lakes
With six bedrooms, enough for 16 people to stay in, this vacation home can accommodate the whole family. Two dining rooms, games and impressive deck views are all part of the package. A short walk to Village at Mammoth, you’ll be surrounded by shopping, activities and a gondola that’ll take the family to Canyon Lodge.
Sleeps: 16
Cost: $493/night
Online: airbnb.com
—Sandra Lee
featured photo by iStock
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