Dazzle Your Kids (and Yourself!) in 6 Extraordinary Family Vacation Rentals

It’s no secret that rentals can be ideal for family vacations — especially when there’s plenty of space and privacy and a fun neighborhood to explore. But if you’re planning a legendary trip or landmark gathering, you’ll want something extra special: a house with star quality in a truly spectacular setting.

From ocean-view villas with infinity pools to luxurious ski chalets right on the slopes, these not-so-humble abodes will make your family vacation one to remember. You bring the kids, the liveliness, the laughter — and they’ll supply the wow factor.

As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.

A Slice of Hawaii Heaven for a Wild, Nature-Filled Stay

Ikena Lani, which means “heavenly view” in Hawaiian, certainly lives up to its name with its panoramic vistas of Kalihiwai Bay and the Pacific Ocean beyond.

Featuring six bedrooms and five bathrooms, this clifftop house is ideal for multigenerational trips. It features a huge swimming pool, extensive gardens and koi ponds, and even a gym, sauna and wraparound lanai for soaking up the sunset.

Spend your days making memories on the golden sands of Kauapea Beach or marveling at the crashing waves and colorful birds of Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge (both a few minutes away by car).

Come nightfall, this spot is all about simple joys: moonlit swims, stargazing and barbecues out on the deck, and movie nights cuddled up on the sofa.

The Ultimate Waterfront Getaway in Delray Beach, Florida

If you’re traveling with a group that loves the finer things in life, they’ll be wowed by this four-bedroom house on Florida’s east coast midway between West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale.

From its plush, ultraluxe beds and state-of-the-art Sonos sound system to the private swimming pool and spa-style bathrooms, every inch is designed to impress.

The kids will love paddling the Intracoastal Waterway on the free kayaks and standup paddleboards provided (the house even has its own dock), while you’ll enjoy the lush peaceful gardens — complete with fire pit, grill and an outdoor TV.

For shopping, dining and sunbathing, Atlantic Avenue and the beach are just a 15-minute stroll away, too.

A Ski-In, Ski-Out Chalet in the French Alps

This cozy French chalet has incredible skiing on its doorstep — literally. It’s a one-minute walk from a ski lift, which will whisk you up the slopes of La Clusaz for pristine trails and exhilarating downhills amid the majestic French Alps. There are routes and runs for all abilities, and at the end of the day you can ski seamlessly home, no car or public transportation required.

You’ll want to maximize your together time in this four-bedroom property, with its steam room, rustic stone fireplace and mountain-view terrace, and the kids will relish the nearby ski school, heated pool and ice-skating rink.

From the outdoor hot tub and vast dining area to the ski room for storing your gear, the chalet has everything you’ll need for an unforgettable winter break — and in the summer, the area offers hiking, golf, paragliding and more.

A Hotel-Style Beach Retreat for a Five-Star Mexico Stay

No cooking, no cleaning, no chores: This all-suite retreat in Oaxaca, Mexico, isn’t just jaw-droppingly beautiful — it also gives you the full five-star boutique hotel experience.

It features a private chef, professional housekeeping and a concierge service. It even has a fully staffed private bar on the roof, so you can get the party started when the kids are tucked away in bed.

The house is set right on the sugar-soft sands of La Bocana, a beach renowned for its surfing, swimming and spectacular sunsets. And those sea views are everywhere, whether you’re sipping your morning coffee in the infinity pool, doing yoga on the terrace or relaxing in your suite (there are four to choose from, sleeping 10 people in total).

A Luxe Harbor-View Villa in Auckland, New Zealand

Just across the water from downtown Auckland, this palatial family home with room for up to eight guests can be rented as one big property or divided into two lavish apartments for more privacy.

Indeed, the villa’s generous proportions are a dream for a game of hide-and-seek or simply sunbathing on the rooftop balcony or kicking back in the master suite’s hot tub.

Push back the sliding doors and you’ll be greeted by views of the Hauraki Gulf, a glittering backdrop for the private pool, sea-breezy terrace and alfresco dining area, ideal for some quality family time.

Almost every room looks out over the water, while the stylish fireplace and open-plan kitchen keep things feeling homey. And the shops and restaurants of Mission Bay and central Auckland are just a few-minutes’ drive away when the family is ready to explore.

A Sleek, Stylish Home on Crete’s Spectacular Coast

Children are absolutely adored in Greece: Your little ones will be welcome everywhere, whether you’re dining in a taverna, playing on the beach or exploring the awe-inspiring historical sites. And this four-bedroom sea-view house in Crete is no exception, with highchairs and cots included and a baby-safe section in the private infinity pool. There’s even a PlayStation 4!

Just a few-minute walk from Marathi Beach, the home is perfectly placed for swimming, snorkeling and fresh seafood lunches. A local water sports center also offers family-friendly adventures, such as standup paddleboarding and kayaking in Crete‘s famous gemstone-clear coves.

With its poolside swing-seats, open-plan kitchen and alfresco dining area, this is a truly sociable home — with more than enough space for up to eight loved ones.