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Happy House by the Sea

Photo gallery for Happy House by the Sea

Interior
Exterior detail
Property grounds
Dining
Beach nearby, sun-loungers

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 679 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Ocean view
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Aptos, CA
  • Place, Seacliff State Beach
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Aptos History Museum
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Rio Del Mar Beach
    ‪11 min walk‬
  • Airport, San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪64 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Aptos

This cottage puts you in the heart of Aptos, within just a 10-minute stroll of Seacliff State Beach and Aptos History Museum. .You can enjoy a TV with a DVD player, and accommodation features a washer/dryer, free WiFi and a fireplace. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A balcony or patio, a living room and a dining area are also available.
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What's nearby

  • Seacliff State Beach - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Aptos History Museum - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Rio Del Mar Beach - 11 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Cabrillo College - 1 min drive - 1.8 km

Getting around

  • San Martin Caltrain Station - 45 min drive
  • Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal) - 11 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Loft Coffee - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Marianne's Ice Cream - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Venus Cocktails & Kitchen - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Peet's Coffee - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪The Farm Bakery Café & Gifts - ‬3 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Happy House by the Sea

Happy House is a charming 2 bedroom 1 bath Cottage just steps away to the entrance to Seacliff State Beach Park. At this time we are offering reservations that are 30+ days long. This is convenient for traveling nurses, working remote, extended vacations, families, retired guests or even locals remodeling their home that need safe temporary housing.

You have parking for up to 3 vehicles in our driveway. We have a fully equipped kitchen with coffee maker, stove/oven, refrigerator, cook ware and dishwasher. There is a washer & dryer for laundry and we provide linens and towels for the house, please bring your own beach towels.

We have wireless internet access, smart TV, DVD and VCR with movies for kids. Happy House is less than a block to groceries, restaurants and shops. Amenities include gas log fireplace, a fenced back yard and charcoal barbecue.

Explore the natural beauty in our area along the coastline to the redwood forests and beyond. As our guest you have use of our Golden Poppy Annual Day Use Pass which gets you into many Northern California State Parks, State Beaches, State Reservoirs and premiere Redwoods for free. (Regularly $10 a day).

Seacliff State Beach Park is the home of the cement ship. It has picnic areas, fishing, visitor/learning center with information on the local fossils and history. There is also a paved pathway for walking or biking that leads to Rio Del Mar Beach. The beach and walking areas welcomes dogs on leash.

We are near the redwoods in Nisene Marks State park with great hiking and biking trails. We are 10 minute drive to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Monterey Bay Aquarium is about a 45 minute drive and Roaring Camp is about a 20 minute drive.

We have a relaxed, casual atmosphere. For small kids there are 2 booster seats for the kitchen table and beach toys. We have an assortment of children's books, mega-blocks, family board games, beach chairs, umbrellas and boogie boards you are welcome to use.

Happy House is a cozy home limited to 6 guests. The default rate includes 2 guests, additional guests are $5 a person per night. Friendly, well behaved pets who are a good fit with our pet rules are welcome at a $150 fee per pet which must be arranged in advance.

Some of our House Rules:
No Smoking
Check in any time after 4 PM.
Check out time is strict at 11 AM.
Quiet time is 10pm - 8am.
No large parties, maximum of 12 people on the property at all times. Maximum of 6 people overnight with additional person fee.
Turn off the heat and lights when you go out.
Fireworks are illegal in Santa Cruz County.
Trash and recyclables must be sorted and put in the provided covered containers.
Return keys to lock box when you check out.
No pets allowed on the property unless arranged in advance and pet fees have been paid.

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Interior
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Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby
  • Beach loungers

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car not required
  • Limited on-site parking (max 3 spaces)

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Fenced yard
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio
  • Picnic area

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washer/dryer

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 3 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In the city centre
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the bay
  • Near the marina
  • Near the sea

Things to do

  • Water sports equipment
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 850 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

An adult aged 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
Guests will receive lockbox information
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Lockbox

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 3 pets
    • Service animals are exempt from fees.
  • Note from host: $150 per pet, pet rules in Rental Agreement

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Kitchen booster seats, books, beach toys

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children. If you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room. On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited. Long-term renters welcome. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit and a deadbolt lock in all accommodation.

Property is also known as

Happy House Sea Aptos
Happy House Sea
Happy Sea Aptos
Cottage
Happy House by the Sea Aptos
Happy House by the Sea Cottage
Happy House by the Sea Cottage Aptos

Frequently asked questions

Are there any beaches close to Happy House by the Sea?

Yep, Happy House by the Sea is a short 13-minute walk from Rio Del Mar Beach. Fun beach activities include snorkelling, scuba diving and windsurfing. You can also find water sports equipment and motor boats.

Does Happy House by the Sea have a pool?

No, this cottage doesn't have a pool.

Is Happy House by the Sea family-friendly?

You bet! With amenities such as laundry facilities and a BBQ, as well as children's dinnerware and children's books, it's no surprise that Happy House by the Sea is a winner with our family travellers.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Happy House by the Sea?

No, Happy House by the Sea does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Happy House by the Sea?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 11:00 AM.

Happy House by the Sea Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 209 out of 263 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 43 out of 263 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 9 out of 263 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 263 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 263 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alan H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Clean and Convenient

Great stay for our Family! Just a short walk down to the beach at Seacliff State Park.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

6/10 Okay

craig a.

Liked: Check-in, communication

Easy walk

Close to the beach
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Happy House

The Happy House was perfect. We had a great time walking with ours dogs on the beach. Enjoyed the nearby restaurants and ice cream shop. Hope to return again soon.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Penny S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

This place is perfect for a small family

We love the Happy House! It's cozy and just what we need for a nice refresher break from Valley life. Thank you! :)
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

6/10 Okay

jennifer e.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Diamond in the rough!

Great location - a real diamond in the rough! Nice neighbors. Could use some TLC... toaster elements only working on one side, frying pans did not sit flat/connect to burner surface. Living room couch a little uncomfortable - but i am nit-picking. had a great time!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

6/10 Okay

Elliot B.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

OK but musty

While the description of the property and environs is mostly accurate, the house was not well maintained or cleaned and had a musty smell.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gary and Sara F.

This is our 4th year @ Happy House and every year I love it more.

Everything you need is at your fingertips! Cute and cozy with comfy linens and a well stocked kitchen with all you need for cooking or BBQing ( even a patio for al fresco dining!) Booking was a breeze and owner Emelia is a joy to work with and quickly will take care of any concern. For travelers with 4 legged family members Happy House is a dream come true! The backyard is safe and secure and you can explore the beauty around you. The beach is a short stroll down a scenic path. There are several great dining options all within walking distance. Aptos is a ‘hidden treasure’ along the California Coast and Happy House is a perfect place to spend your vacation.
Stayed 22 nights in Apr 2018
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Gary and Sara F.

This is our 5th stay @ 'Happy House'each year it gets better! Sun, restaurants, it's all here.

A Perfect home away from home. Cozy & convenient cute local restaurants, sun, and sand and shops are steps away and the fun of Santa Cruz and Capitola a short drive. Emelia, the owner, is a joy to work with. Quick to respond to anything you might need. Comfy beds plenty of linens, towels and supplies . The kitchen is stocked.Pots pans,appliances and has all you need. The washer/dryer is a life saver. wonderful Patio is safe & secure for pets. anenjoy alfresco BBQ .meals Books, DVD's for kids, ( but why stay inside when the ocean is steps away?) A real home-away-from-home. Forget hassles if pricey hotels and enjoy Happy House you will adore this hidden Aptos gem. Once to come you'll be back for another visit.
Stayed 21 nights in May 2017
Verified

6/10 Okay

Brent A.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Review of Happy House

Overall, it was a pretty good stay. For the value, I would suggest staying multiple nights (pet fee plus cleaning fee are high for one night). We just couldn't stay multiple nights. The check in process was simple, owner's communication was outstanding. The property itself is old and there is minimal investment in keeping property well maintained, newer looking and there was an "old stench" to the house the entire time. We had to open windows and light a candle for most of the time, which made it very cold at times. It got windy, therefore, so much brush landed on my car from the non-maintained trees and branches around the area. The furniture was uncomfortable and needed to sit on pillows. The King Size bed was very comfortable. The walk to the beach was short, so convenient. Overall, I would not spend this kind of money again and just get a hotel nearby to be honest. If I had a bigger group of four or more, I would have stayed in a larger house. The owner was very nice and pleasant. Please invest more in the property to update it.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jen J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic beach area getaway

What a pleasant surprise this little beach house was…perfect sleeping configuration, cozy comfy beds, awesomely supplied kitchen, great backyard patio, and super convenient to walk on the beach or beach walk…we will return to this place for sure!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Highly Recommended Great Location

This is a great smaller home located above Sea Cliff State Beach. I would say perfect for four guests and quite acceptable for six. We had six. Very old school in a good way. Not a super modern property and not a party destination if that is what you are looking for. The host was very easy to connect with. We would definitely return.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Curt S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Time

Not easy finding house so close to the beach that will accept multiple Large dogs. Mexican restaurant, general store and ice cream. 1 block away. We did not do any cooking but it appears the house was well stocked with pans and utensils to do the basics if you wanted to cook. Hopefully we will be able to come back soon.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carol H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome!

The house is a cozy place in a great location. We enjoyed relaxing in the backyard and walking down to the beach. Would definitely recommend!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marc D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Location

Happy House is in a great spot. Near the Highway and closer to the beach. Santa Cruz and all it had to offer is about 15 minutes away. It might take longer on heavy traffic days. The cottage is small but fit our family of six comfortably. The courtyard behind the cottage is inviting, but we didn’t have the time to enjoy it. We had a nice visit.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amanda S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beach getaway

Great location near beach, food, ice cream! Cute beach house! We really enjoyed our time there.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tyler B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Home away from home

Myself and my family stayed here last year, and came back just for the fact that this property is in an excellent location with a caring owner that is responsive to your needs! I’ll probably stay here again next year!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Always a great place to spend time!

Great location, clean and nice accommodations, great for small families!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kim A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very cute little cottage

We had a wonderful time at the Happy House so close to the ocean and the little downtown area, would definitely come again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Megan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

Had a great time the house was furnished with all that you needed and what was stated in the description of amenities. Very clean , and fun looking at the books and games.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Pat B.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

cute beach house

Great location just a few steps to restaurants, store, ice cream shop and about a 5-minute walk to beach (the beach is downhill, but you can also drive to a parking lot if walking up and down a hill is an issue for you). Short drive to the magical Forest of Nisene Marks.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eddielynn M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We had a wonderful stay.

This is a very cute and comfy house. Well equipped with everything we needed. Patio is fenced and great for our dogs. Small store close by, Snow-white restaurant and a few others. Seacliff state park is within walking distance, we also hiked State Park Nisene. Thank you, Happy House, for a wonderful and relaxing time.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joe L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

It was a great stay; recommend it.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

Our family spent a week here, it's right next to a nice beach and not far from a lot of good day trips. The house is cute and has a nice patio in back for kids to play on. I
Stayed 8 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scot B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome place

Will definitely return. Loved my stay
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Emily C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beach stay

Very nice weekend
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022