Welcome to AvantStay! We believe you deserve so much more than an ordinary short-term vacation rental experience. But what makes AvantStay different? We’re all about what you can dream. Every travel experience should be one-of-a-kind, delightful, and stress-free. We shine with our attention to detail, commitment to customer service, hotel-quality amenities, and upgrades and experiences that help ensure every stay with us is more memorable than the last. In choosing us, you’re not just choosing another short-term rental company—you’re choosing an elevated experience.
Homes Catered To Groups
We have homes of all types, but most of our homes are best experienced with friends and family. Large We have homes of all types, but most of our homes are best experienced with friends and family. Large dining areas, state-of-the-art kitchens, and yards great for gatherings make getting together with all your loved ones a breeze. Plus, plenty of bedrooms (many with their own bathrooms) means no one’s sleeping on the couch this time.
An Elevated Experience
With luxurious upgrades and experiences available at the touch of a button, you can let your imagination run wild when it comes to trip activities. To start, our app gives you front-row access to services you would expect at a five-star hotel — in-room massages, mid-stay cleanings, and private transportation. But, when you stay with us, the sky’s the limit! From booking a private chef to prepare dinner for the family, to pre-stocking your fridge with groceries before you arrive, the AvantStay app makes it easier than ever to make your vacation dreams a reality.
Award-Winning Design
As travelers ourselves, we know how crucial the interior design of a home can be when planning the vacation of your dreams. We’ve actually built an in-house interior design team. And it’s not just any interior design team—they’ve actually won awards for it, including best design from Marriott Homes & Villas in 2021. We make sure our homes match the vibe of your trip, whether it be on the coast or in the woods, so you’re fully immersed in the magic of your vacation.
Our homes are also decked out with amenities, so you’ll never be sitting around wondering what to do next. From cornhole to board games, from billiards to the hot tub, we believe fun comes in all shapes and sizes and is best experienced with your loved ones. The amenities for each home are different (our estates collection has some truly awe-inspiring ones), but we can promise that you will never be bored.
Customer Service By Humans, For Humans
Our dedicated area managers are here to make sure your experience is delightful. We also have team members available 24/7, so even if you need something in the middle of the night, we’re there to help. That way, you aren’t at the whim of the homeowner’s availability and you won’t get a computer trying to help you in a crisis. We want every aspect of your experience to be as relaxing as possible, because that’s why you go on vacation in the first place.
Happy Homeowners
On top of the personal relationship we keep with our guests, we also take deep care and thoughtful steps to ensure our homeowners feel proud and reassured when their property is in our hands.
We pride ourselves on:
Best-in-class in-field operations
Smart-home technology to keep our homes and guests safe
Complimentary updated interior design
A proprietary software platform that manages it all and keeps homeowners informed
We care for these homes as though they were our own (some are even employee-owned), and we continue to build and grow sustainably to build value for our homeowners. If you’re interested in partnering with us, you can learn more about our Vacation Rental Management.
While most of our properties are homes designed for group travel as mentioned above, we also have cozier rentals and even boutique hotels, because sometimes you just want to get away without the crowd. Most importantly, we’re ever-growing to fit the needs of the modern-day traveler, meaning we’re adding new properties in new destinations all the time.
How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field?
I help build the systems and processes to keep employees engaged!
How do you like to start your work day?
My NPR podcast, a little Beyoncé, and my skincare routine.
What teams do you collaborate the most with at work?
Legal and Finance, but what I love about my role is being able to partner with folks across every team in the business!
What is your favorite thing about working at AvantStay?
The trust I’ve been given in making a meaningful difference in the employee experience.
What advice would you give to someone looking to join your team?
Be prepared to get your hands dirty. The People & Talent team is highly collaborative and no job is too small!
Which AvantStay home is your favorite?
Twilight Vines – I stayed there for my 1st company offsite. I got to meet so many folks face-to-face when we’re otherwise remote, and had an awesome time collaborating live and getting to have some fun!
Give us a fun fact!
I’m the oldest of 11 children!
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Big video game nerd! Right now, lots of Destiny 2 on PS5.
Before working at AvantStay, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
I had a summer job collecting tolls on a bridge!
What is your favorite AvantStay memory?
Visiting new markets to help welcome new employees.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Examine what you tolerate.
What’s your favorite Slack channel?
#people-and-talent, of course!
What’s your favorite AvantStay employee perk?
A remote-first environment.
Where is your favorite vacation spot?
Medellin, Colombia! Photo from paragliding in a nearby town, Corconá:
Nestled in the heart of California’s wine country, Sonoma County offers a delightful blend of scenic landscapes, world-class wineries, and culinary delights. Sonoma makes for the perfect weekend getaway, with plenty of things to do to fit into a 48-hour trip. In this guide, we’ll take you on a memorable journey through Sonoma, highlighting the best places to stay, wineries to visit, and where to savor delicious treats. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and flavors of this captivating destination.
Where to Stay
For a comfortable and luxurious stay in Sonoma County, consider booking an AvantStay vacation rental in Santa Rosa. Santa Rosa is a great central location with easy access to the Sonoma wineries to the north and south, and to Napa Valley wineries to the east.
AvantStay offers an array of stunning properties that cater to different group sizes and preferences. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, you’ll find spacious accommodations equipped with modern amenities and stylish interiors. Enjoy the convenience of a fully equipped kitchen, cozy living spaces, and beautiful outdoor areas to unwind after a day of exploration.
Day 1 Kickstart your day with a delicious brunch at Sunflower Caffé in Downtown Sonoma. Known for its farm-to-table ethos, this charming eatery serves up mouthwatering dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in their fluffy pancakes, savory omelets, or a hearty breakfast sandwich. This spot does not take reservations, so you can leisurely stroll to brunch without being held to a schedule.
Make your way to Benziger Family Winery, known for its sustainable farming practices and exceptional wines. Take a guided tour of the vineyards, learn about their biodynamic approach, and sample their diverse range of varietals. We recommend taking the tractor tour for a unique perspective of the vineyards. Tickets must be purchased in advance as they do tend to sell out.
Berziger Family Winery
After Benziger, head to their sister location, Imagery Winery, for an intimate wine-tasting experience. Enjoy their handcrafted wines, carefully produced in small batches, while taking in the serene vineyard views. This winery is family-friendly, offering an outdoor area with bocce ball and plenty of space for the kids to run around.
Imagery Winery
End your evening by heading back to the Santa Rosa area for dinner at La Rosa Tequileria & Grille. This vibrant restaurant offers a fusion of Mexican and Latin American flavors. Enjoy dishes like their flavorful carne asada, fresh ceviche, or their famous street tacos. Pair your meal with one of their impressive tequila or mezcal selections.
Save room for dessert and hop across the street to Noble Folk for a delightful ice cream experience. This artisanal ice cream parlor offers a range of unique flavors made with locally sourced ingredients. From classic options to inventive creations like lavender honey and salted caramel, there’s something to satisfy every palate. For the indecisive, opt for a flight of ice cream and choose up to 6 different flavors.
Ice cream flight at Noble Folk
Day 2
Start your morning off right with brunch at Bird & The Bottle. This Santa Rosa spot blends an surprising array of flavors. Asian, American South, East Coast, Jewish and other cuisines have been combined to create an unforgettable menu. Enjoy everything from matzo ball soup to Korean BBQ chicken.
Next on the agenda are another two wineries you won’t want to miss.
Embark on a sensory journey at Jordan Vineyard & Winery, renowned for its elegant wines and stunning chateau-style architecture. Take a guided tour of the vineyards, explore their underground wine cellar, and indulge in a wine and food pairing experience. The Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a true standout.
Conclude your winery visits at St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, a picturesque estate offering an array of exceptional wines. Enjoy a seated tasting experience in their tasting room or outdoor terrace, where you can sample their highly acclaimed Zinfandel and Chardonnay.
For a delicious dining experience, spend the evening at The Girl & The Fig in Sonoma. This renowned restaurant focuses on French-inspired cuisine with a California twist. The menu showcases seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, creating dishes bursting with flavor. Try their signature fig and arugula salad, followed by their delectable roasted chicken or grilled fish. End your meal with their decadent lavender crème brulée.
the girl & the fig
Ready to plan your stay in Sonoma? Check out all of AvantStay’s group-friendly vacation rentals here.
With over 4 million hosts on Airbnb and 6 million active listings worldwide, how do you make your short-term rental stand out in such a saturated space? As an Airbnb Superhost, you’ll receive improved visibility, higher referral bonuses, increased bookings, and ultimately more revenue. If you’re interested in learning how to become a Superhost on Airbnb, and how AvantStay can simplify that process, we’ve got you covered. In this article we’ll answer:
What is an Airbnb Superhost?
What are the benefits of being a Superhost?
What are the Airbnb Superhost requirements?
How can a vacation rental management company help you become a Superhost?
What is an Airbnb Superhost?
The Airbnb Superhost program was created to reward and promote top-performing hosts. Hosts that go above and beyond to create an exceptional guest experience are given a Superhost badge and additional promotions to reach more guests. If you meet Airbnb’s requirements, you are awarded Superhost status after each evaluation period (no application needed!).
What are the benefits of being an Airbnb Superhost?
There are many benefits that come with being an Airbnb Superhost, including increased visibility, more earning potential, and exclusive rewards. According to AirDNA, these hosts also see a greater performance with several key performance indicators compared to non-Superhosts:
81% higher occupancy rate
60% more revenue per available day
5% improvement in listing traffic
Increased visibility
As a Superhost, you’ll receive a badge that will help you stand out from other hosts and listings in your area, all while building trust with potential guests. Superhosts are also more likely to be featured in Airbnb’s promotional emails. In addition, Airbnb users have the ability to filter searches to only see Superhost rentals–that means more eyes on your listing and more bookings.
More earning potential
Superhosts earn more simply from improved listing visibility along with the trust and expectations that come with the status. Guests know that Superhosts are the best of the best, and will likely book your home over those from other non-Superhosts.
Exclusive rewards from Airbnb
Superhosts receive a $100 Airbnb coupon every year that they keep their status. If Superhosts refer new hosts to join Airbnb, they get an additional 20% bonus on top of the usual referral bonus.
What are the Airbnb Superhost requirements?
Every three months, Airbnb checks if you’ve met their requirements for the past year so you can earn or keep your Superhost status. To qualify for an Airbnb Superhost badge, you must:
Host at least 10 trips, or have 3 reservations that total at least 100 nights
Maintain a 90% response rate or higher
Maintain a 1% cancellation rate (1 cancellation per 100 reservations) or lower
Maintain a 4.8 overall rating
3 Tips for becoming an Airbnb Superhost
While responsiveness and limiting cancellations are important, providing a top-notch guest experience is crucial to boost your ratings and maximizing your short-term rental income. Here’s how you can improve the guest experience to drive more five-star reviews and become a Superhost.
Use high-quality photos in your listing
Take high-resolution photos of your vacation rental that accurately reflect the space, amenities, and what guests can expect when they walk into your home. Make sure you update these photos after you make any changes to your property so guests don’t leave negative reviews about an inaccurate listing.
With AvantStay, our Design and Photography teams develop a marketing and listing plan that best highlights the experiences and amenities to our guests. We stage, style, and photograph your home to showcase the property’s best characteristics across listings.
Prioritize cleanliness and upkeep
Allow guests to completely unwind and enjoy their stay by keeping your vacation rental clean and ready to use. AvantStay has teams dedicated to field operations that manage utilities, services, maintenance, and housekeeping on our owners’ behalf.
We pride ourselves on a rigorous 100-point vacation rental cleaning checklist that ensures our housekeepers perform deep cleans using products and standards that comply with (and exceed) CDC guidelines before every stay. In addition, we provide a bi-annual deep clean to ensure homes stay in great shape all year round.
Take care of your guests
Go above and beyond to make sure guests have the best experience at your home. From communication and easy check-in, to welcome gifts and a well-stocked home, taking the time to show guests that you care can earn you a five-star rating.
At AvantStay, guests have access to 24/7 live support via SMS, email, or phone, and we troubleshoot every issue to ensure they are well-cared for. That way, our homeowner partners can sit back and relax without any interruptions. By resolving 90% of guest issues on the first call, we receive higher ratings and better guest satisfaction, driving more five-star reviews.
We also take care of stocking the home with guest-ready supplies and provide personalized, thoughtful welcome packages ahead of every stay.
Become an Airbnb Superhost with AvantStay
Managing a short-term rental and reaching Superhost status on Airbnb can be expensive, tedious, and time-consuming. AvantStay has been a top-rated Superhost for 24 consecutive quarters, so we know what it takes to take your home to the next level and maximize your revenue. We offer the first hands-off approach for vacation rental owners, using our proprietary tech suite to power bookings, operationalize in-field management, and activate an elevated guest experience.
In addition, guests can take advantage of our upgrades and experiences by requesting mid-stay cleans, fridge stocking, arranging private chef-catered dinners, wine tastings, in-home spa treatments, transportation, and more. A pristine home paired with our personalized guest services drives higher satisfaction, more five-star reviews, and repeat visitors.
If you’re interested in learning more about AvantStay’s best-in-class care and how we can maximize your revenue, our team is ready to help. Get started with our vacation rental management experts today!
Starting an Airbnb business can be a lucrative venture. According to Airbnb, the average income for US hosts recently rose to $13,800, an 85% increase from 2019. Not a bad chunk of change for an additional income stream. However, the money won’t be flooding in the moment you begin your new hosting gig; there are a lot of moving parts when managing a vacation rental, and the hosts that go above and beyond are the ones that outperform the rest. If you’re ready to take on the role of a vacation rental host, this guide will teach you how to start an Airbnb business and maximize your revenue.
Getting started — Airbnb business basics
Before starting your Airbnb business, there are a few crucial boxes to check, from complying with local short-term rental laws to budgeting for taxes and Airbnb fees.
Short-term rental permits
Before you attempt to start an Airbnb business, make sure your local government allows short-term rentals. Every state, county, and city has its own short-term rental laws. These often change, so make sure you’re fully up-to-date and understand the current rules and regulations in place for your market.
You’ll likely need a general business license or short-term rental permit. These ensure your vacation rental is compliant with zoning restrictions and meet the local health and safety requirements. You’ll also need to get permission from your landlord or homeowners association to rent your home on a short-term basis.
Short-term rental taxes
The IRS will recognize your Airbnb venture as a legitimate business, so you’ll need to keep track of your income and expenses for your federal tax return. You’ll likely be able to deduct expenses from running your Airbnb business, including utilities, property repairs, cleaning services, and more.
In most locations, Airbnb automatically collects and pays occupancy taxes on behalf of hosts. This isn’t the case in all jurisdictions, so check to see if your listing is eligible.
Also, consider working with a tax professional to make sure you’re always in good standing with the IRS.
Airbnb fees
While it’s free to list vacation rentals on Airbnb, most hosts pay a fee of 14-16% for each booking’s subtotal. This percentage can be higher depending on location, your cancellation policy, and if you’re an Airbnb Plus host. Keep the hosting fee in mind when setting your price.
How to start an Airbnb — next steps
Assuming you already have a home to rent on Airbnb, whether it’s your primary residence or an investment property, the following steps will help you kickstart your Airbnb business.
Prepare and furnish your space
A well-stocked thoughtfully designed and furnished Airbnb not only creates a positive guest experience but leads to better reviews and increased bookings. Make sure you tackle the following before welcoming your first guests:
Install keyless entry locks for contactless check-in and issue designated codes for your housekeeping team
Furnish your home with modern appliances and gadgets
Style your space with elevated, locally inspired furniture and decor
Create a welcome book/house manual (physical or digital) for your guests
Assemble a network of local support teams
From housekeeping to landscaping and maintenance, create a solid team of local contractors that you can trust to keep your Airbnb property in pristine condition. Build a strong relationship with these folks as they’ll be your right hand running a successful Airbnb business. Some team members to consider:
Housekeepers
Repairman
Plumber
Electrician
Landscapers
Accountant
Property Manager
Strategically price your Airbnb
Pricing your Airbnb property for market and seasonal trends is one of the trickiest parts of running a vacation rental. If traveler demand is high in your market, you could lose money by pricing your home too low. On the other hand, if your home is priced too high, you could lose potential bookings. Research your local market so you can accurately and competitively charge for bedroom count, amenities, views, proximity to local attractions, and other key features.
Create and optimize your listing
Your Airbnb listing is your first touchpoint with potential guests. Start with your title, description, and keywords. Your title should describe your vacation rental and leave potential guests compelled to click your listing. Then you can use your description to paint a picture of the guest experience at your home, including all the details that make your property unique.
When writing your headline and description, incorporate search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to further boost your reach. Research search terms (“keywords”) that are popular in your market and add those to your listing. Some examples include, “private beachfront home in Destin” or “dog-friendly Scottsdale vacation rental.”
Don’t just list amenities—describe how guests can make their own memories at your home! Do you have a private hot tub perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring? Or a patio with an ocean view paired well with morning coffee or evening cocktails? Use these in your Airbnb listing to encourage travelers to hit “Reserve.”
In addition, splurge on a professional photographer to take high-resolution photos of your vacation rental that accurately reflect the space, amenities, views, and what guests can expect when they walk into your Airbnb. Photos help guests imagine themselves in your space and create their own stories.
How to become a Superhost on Airbnb
Airbnb hosts that go above and beyond to create an exceptional guest experience are given a Superhost badge and additional promotions to reach more guests.
Every three months, Airbnb checks if you’ve met their requirements for the past year so you can earn or keep your Superhost status (no application needed!). To qualify for an Airbnb Superhost badge, you must:
Host at least 10 trips, or have 3 reservations that total at least 100 nights
Maintain a 90% response rate or higher
Maintain a 1% cancellation rate (1 cancellation per 100 reservations) or lower
Maintain a 4.8 overall rating
Partner with an expert vacation rental manager
Running a successful Airbnb business can be expensive, tedious, and time-consuming. So, why not partner with an expert who can do all the work for you?
AvantStay has been a top-rated Superhost for 22 consecutive quarters, so we know what it takes to take your home to the next level and maximize your revenue. We offer the first hands-off approach for vacation rental owners, using our proprietary tech suite to power bookings, operationalize in-field management, and activate an elevated guest experience.
In addition, guests can use our app to request upgrades and experiences like mid-stay cleans, fridge stocking, arrange private chef-catered dinners, wine tastings, in-home spa treatments, transportation, and more. A pristine home paired with our personalized guest services drives higher satisfaction, more five-star reviews, and repeat visitors.
Malibu is a beautiful coastal city located in Southern California. With its stunning beaches, picturesque mountains, and iconic attractions, Malibu is a popular travel destination for visitors from all over the world. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 23 things to do in Malibu from outdoor adventures to wine tasting, from museums to shopping.
1. Visit the iconic Surfrider Beach
Surfrider Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Malibu, and for good reason. It’s known for its world-class waves and beautiful scenery, and is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or just looking to relax on the beach, Surfrider Beach is a must-visit destination.
Source: Sandee
2. Explore the tidepools at Leo Carrillo State Park
Leo Carrillo State Park is a beautiful coastal park that offers a wide range of outdoor activities. One of the highlights of the park is the tidepools, which are home to a variety of sea creatures like crabs, starfish, and anemones. It’s a great spot for kids and adults alike to explore and learn about the marine ecosystem.
3. Go scuba diving or snorkeling
We recommend diving in the crystal clear waters of Point Dume State Beach, a scenic beach that offers some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling in Malibu. The crystal clear waters provide excellent visibility, and there’s a diverse array of marine life to discover, including kelp forests, sea lions, and colorful fish.
Source: Malibu Beach Inn
4. Go kayaking or paddle boarding in Malibu Lagoon State Beach
Malibu Lagoon State Beach is a peaceful beach that’s perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. The lagoon is a great spot for beginners, as the water is calm and shallow. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching, as the lagoon is home to a variety of shorebirds and waterfowl.
5. Take a sunset horseback ride with Malibu Riders
Malibu Riders offers horseback rides in Malibu State Park and Zuma Canyon. The horses are gentle and well-trained, and the views of the ocean and coastline are stunning. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of Malibu.
Source: Malibu Riders
6. Hike the trails in Malibu Creek State Park
Malibu Creek State Park is a beautiful park that offers a wide range of hiking trails. The park is home to several filming locations, including the set of the TV show MAS*H. The trails offer stunning views of the mountains and canyons, and there are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and coyotes.
7. Go rock climbing at Malibu Creek State Park
Malibu Creek State Park is also a great spot for rock climbing, with over 100 climbing routes to choose from. The park offers a range of climbs for all skill levels, from easy boulder problems to challenging multi-pitch routes. There are several guide companies in Malibu that offer rock climbing lessons and guided climbs.
Source: Food for Hunters
8. Take a bike ride on the scenic Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most iconic roads in the world, and it offers stunning views of the ocean and coastline. Biking along the PCH is a great way to take in the scenery and get some exercise at the same time. There are several bike rental companies in Malibu that offer rentals by the hour or day.
9. Go wine tasting
Malibu has its own wine region, with several wineries offering tastings and tours. Check out Malibu Wines or Rosenthal Winery for a great experience.
Source: Malibu Discovery
10. Take a helicopter tour
For a unique and unforgettable experience, take a helicopter tour of Malibu and the surrounding area. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning coastline and the Santa Monica Mountains.
11. Visit the Malibu Pier
Visiting the Malibu Pier is a quintessential Malibu experience that should not be missed. This historic pier offers stunning views of the ocean, the coastline, and the mountains. Take a leisurely stroll along the pier and enjoy the fresh ocean air, or try your hand at fishing from one of the designated fishing spots. The pier is also home to some great dining options, including Malibu Farm and the Beachcomber Café.
Source: Expedia
12. Go shopping at the Malibu Lumber Yard
The Malibu Lumber Yard is not your typical shopping center. It’s an open-air, luxury shopping destination that features high-end fashion boutiques, health and wellness shops, and gourmet dining options. The design of the center is also unique, with beautiful landscaping, outdoor seating, and water features that make for a relaxing and enjoyable shopping experience.
13. Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway
Driving along the PCH is a breathtaking experience that should not be missed. The highway offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, and beautiful beaches. Rent a convertible and put the top down to explore the beauty of Malibu and the surrounding areas. There are plenty of lookout points and scenic stops along the way for the perfect photo op.
14. Visit the Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum
The Adamson House is a beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival-style home that is now a museum showcasing Malibu’s history and culture. The house and grounds are stunning, with intricate tile work, gardens, and fountains. The Malibu Lagoon Museum is also on site and offers exhibits on the natural history of the Malibu Lagoon and its surrounding ecosystem.
Source: Wowabouts
15. Take a surf lesson
Malibu is known for its great surf, and there’s no better way to experience it than by taking a surf lesson. There are plenty of surf schools and instructors in the area, offering lessons for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, catching a wave in Malibu is an unforgettable experience.
16. Explore the Santa Monica Mountains
The Santa Monica Mountains offer a wealth of hiking trails with stunning views of the ocean and the city. There are trails for all levels of hikers, from easy nature walks to challenging summit hikes. It’s a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the natural beauty of Malibu.
Source: All Trails
17. Go on a whale watching tour
Malibu is a great place to spot whales during their migration season. Book a tour with one of the local companies and get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders.
18. Visit the Getty Villa
The Getty Villa is a stunning museum dedicated to the art and culture of ancient Greece and Rome. The building itself is a work of art, modeled after an ancient Roman villa, and the collection is truly impressive. It’s a great way to learn about history and art while enjoying the beauty of the museum’s gardens and views of the ocean.
Source: Wikipedia
19. Take a day trip to nearby Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is a charming town just a short drive up the coast from Malibu. It offers a variety of attractions, including beautiful beaches, historic sites, and great restaurants. Take a walk down State Street, visit the Santa Barbara Mission, or just relax on the beach and enjoy the scenery.
20. Visit the Malibu Country Mart
The Malibu Country Mart is an outdoor shopping center that offers a variety of high-end shops and restaurants. It’s also home to a weekly farmers’ market where you can sample fresh, local produce and artisanal goods. The center has a laid-back, beachy vibe that makes for a great shopping and dining experience.
Source: Malibu Country Mart
21. Take a sunset cruise
Watching the sun set over the Pacific is a must-do when in Malibu. Book a sunset cruise and enjoy a relaxing and romantic evening on the water. You’ll see stunning views of the coastline and maybe even spot some dolphins or other marine life.
22. Visit the Malibu Hindu Temple
The Malibu Hindu Temple is the largest Hindu temple in the Western Hemisphere and offers a unique glimpse into Hindu culture and spirituality. The temple is open to visitors of all faiths, and there are regular ceremonies and events
Source: Hidden California
23. Stay in an AvantStay vacation rental
With so much to see and do along the coast, staying in an AvantStay vacation rental in Malibu is the perfect way to experience it all. Whether you’re traveling with a group of friends or family, AvantStay offers spacious, luxurious rentals that will make your trip unforgettable.
Malibu truly has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches and outdoor activities to world-class dining and cultural attractions. And with AvantStay vacation rentals, you can experience it all in style and comfort. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Malibu today!
We hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your trip to Malibu. Don’t forget to check out the links we’ve included throughout the post to learn more about the various activities and attractions. Happy travels!
Consider yourself a heavy dink-er? 2022 proved that you either like pickleball or you’re wrong. With the addition of pickleball courts in 7 of our homes, we figured it’s time we give these courts their shining moment… since we already gave our homes with private tennis courts theirs.
Grab your racquet—it’s game on.
1. Olivano Ranch – Palm Desert, CA
Great minds dink alike. Olivano Ranch is a 6-bedroom stay with all you and the crew need for a desert dreamy trip to Palm Springs. Engage in some friendly competition on the pickleball and basketball courts, cool off by the pool, or soak in the hot tub after a day of exploring the springs.
2. The Riesling Retreat – Temecula, CA
The Riesling Retreat: Where day dinking meets day drinking. This Temecula getaway was aptly named a retreat with its plethora of activities. Spend days playing pickleball, volleyball, basketball, or even putt-putt. Hang inside in the game room with a pool table, ping pong table, and foosball. Head back outside for the pool, fire pit, and alfresco dining.
Fun date idea: a game of pickleball at The Date Palm Estate. This Coachella Valleystay embodies luxury and was designed for the active group. With its pickleball court, saltwater pool, bocce ball court, six arcade games, a movie theater, home sound system, a fire pit, outdoor grill, and last but not least, a breakfast bar, you’ll never run out of things to do.
4. Nahana – Indio, CA
Ballin’ on the pickleball court! ThisCoachella Valley property embodies a California sunset with all pink courts for pickleball, tennis, and volleyball. When you’re all tuckered out, soak in the pool loungers—perfect for those summer reads. At night, gather round the sunken fire pit and cheers to the good life that is Nahana.
5. Farrier – Paradise Valley, AZ
This Scottsdale vacation home? Baller. And not just for its pickleball court. Farrier offers an extra-decadent vacation with its pool, outdoor dining area, ping pong table. Inside you’ll find a stone fireplace, wet bar, pool table, and marble floors, and the coziest bedrooms to make you want to extend your vacation another week or two.
FYI, that’s totally an option. Check out our Month+ Stays here.
6. Buena Vista – Thermal, CA
If your group has a designated dinker, we think they’ll be pleased with this property. Buena Vista is a Coachella Valleyestate with a tennis court that doubles as a pickleball court, a 60 ft pool, a freshwater lake with a paddle boat, paddle boards and kayaks, billiards, shuffleboard, a fire pit, an actual saloon, a soccer field, and so much more.
7. Mirabella – Indio, CA
Double trouble – Mirabella has a gorgeous tennis court that also serves as a pretty great pickleball court. On top of that, it also comes with a saltwater pool, a 5-hole pitch and putt golf course, and a private lake with a dock for kayaking and paddle boating—so TBH, we think you’ll be just fine staying at this Coachella Valley estate.
– The exploration doesn’t stop here. Apart from its seamless group travel experience and a plentiful selection of luxury in-app upgrades, AvantStay homes are in primo outdoor locations – even more than what we just covered in this article. Click here to see all our destinations and we’ll see you soon!
Are you looking to plan the perfect family vacation with a toddler? With AvantStay, you can enjoy a stress-free vacation with your little one in some of the most beautiful destinations across the United States. Our kid-friendly vacation homes have high chairs and pack & plays available, so you don’t need to worry about packing these big and bulky items.
When you stay with us, you can enjoy add-ons like a personal chef or fridge stocking on arrival, so that you don’t have to waste time dragging your kids to the grocery store to stock up on snacks. You can also choose to add on a poolside massage—because we can bet you need one after running after your little one!
Let’s take a look at just a few of our favorite toddler-friendly AvantStay homes that are perfect for traveling families.
Halo — Destin, Florida
Halo is a coastal bungalow that is sure to win your heart! This 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom vacation home boasts a pool with a safety fence for the little ones, a fire pit and an outdoor bar with TV for the adults. There’s also a separate carriage house with an additional bedroom which makes for the perfect place for your toddler’s afternoon nap.
Sky Lantern — Temecula, California
Welcome to Sky Lantern – your ultimate vacay spot in Temecula! This home comes with 7 spectacular bedrooms, so you can bring along the whole extended family. Take your pick from playing cornhole, lounging on a hammock, a game of beach volleyball or cooling off in one of the two pools. Inside you’ll find a game room with a small slide for your toddler to enjoy again and again… and again.
Treehouse — Breckenridge, Colorado
Treehouse is a stunning 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom vacation rental that can accommodate up to 14 guests. The home is a little kid’s dream with a large yard, foosball table, and a fully functioning treehouse with a slide that is available for use in the non-winter months. The adults can enjoy stargazing in the hot tub out back once the little ones are knocked out for the night.
Woodfall — Berkshires, Massachusetts
Bring your toddlers to Woodfall and enjoy a nostalgic vacation among the trees in the stunning Berkshires. With a vast yard featuring a swing set, hammock and natural fire pit, there’s plenty of space for children to play. The deck above is perfect for open-air meals with a grill and dining table. Inside, the common area has vaulted ceilings and many windows for natural light, while an extra recreation room on the lower floor provides even more space for everyone to spread out and stay entertained.
Romero — San Diego, California
Come to Romero for a fun-filled family vacation in San Diego! With lots of exciting activities like whale watching, paddleboarding, hiking, and golfing, you and the kids will have plenty to do. At this toddler-friendly vacation home, you’ll find a playset with swings and a slide and a large backyard for playtime. Cap off your nights with s’mores by the firepit for a family memory you won’t forget.
Parker —Inlet Beach, Florida
Say hello to Parker – the perfect vacation home for families with toddlers on 30A / the Emerald Coast. This home is located in a gated community with two pools, a playground, and a miniature golf course that your little one is sure to love. Explore the tree-lined paths while strolling or biking and enjoy direct beach access. The house itself has multiple porches, swings, benches, and comfortable furnishings for relaxation and bonding time. Enjoy some much-needed rest and fun in the sun at Parker!
These are just a few of our homes that are great for toddlers. Check out all of our homes here and book your family-friendly AvantStay home today to start making memories that will last a lifetime.
How do we turn a vacation rental from average to an AvantStay? In our Ask the Expert series, we sit down with different members of the AvantStay team to learn just that. For our first installment of the series, we take a look into how AvantStay transforms vacation rentals with award-winning design services.
We asked our Design Lead, Nic Kay, what it’s like designing for AvantStay, the biggest design mistakes, where she gets her inspiration, and more. Let’s dive in!
1. Where do you get inspiration from when designing a new AvantStay?
My inspiration for each home comes from a combination of the market, the architecture and style of the home, and what kind of guests travel to the area. I always aim for the design to feel localized to the area and authentic to the home, and always keep in mind how our guests can best utilize the space to gather.
Ishan in Joshua Tree
2. Biggest mistake people make when designing vacation rentals?
Lack of seating! In addition to a space being beautiful, it also needs to function for the groups inhabiting it. There should be plenty of comfortable seating and space to share meal around a table.
4. How does AvantStay work with homeowners to design their homes?
AvantStay collaborates with homeowners to enhance the function, aesthetic, and experiential aspects of their home. We focus on comfort, gathering spaces, and taking advantage of experiential areas like game rooms, movie theaters, and stunning outdoor spaces. These enhancements improve the guest experience as well as drive ROI for homeowners.
Mirabella in Coachella Valley
5. What style trends are you seeing in vacation rentals lately?
Color is very on trend! I’ve been seeing a super fun use of paint, murals, and wallpaper. People are embracing some groovy vibes and I’m very much here for it!
Paramount Place in Austin
6. How is designing for vacation rentals different from designing for someone’s home?
Vacation rental design is very different from designing a personal home in the way that it needs to appeal to a wide audience, rather than a space someone will live in every day. It’s the same in that vacation rentals should make you feel at home, but they should also give you a little something special that you don’t get to experience every day.
Delivering a consistent, first-class hospitality experience for every guest is the standard at which we operate. We give guests all the amenities of a hotel paired with the comfort of a private space to create a one-of-a-kind vacation. By going above and beyond for our guests, we receive more five-star ratings than the competition, drive more bookings, and maximize homeowner income. Of course, we couldn’t do it without our owners’ stunning homes. Check out some of our favorite guest reviews from April 2023.
Destination Sun Dance | Coachella Valley
Felix X. | 5 stars overall
My group of 7 stayed here for Coachella and we loved the house! Everything was clean and functional, and the beds were very comfortable. We used the pool, hot tub, ping pong table, grill, and putt-putt in the backyard. On top of that, AvantStay even provided some free drinks in the fridge and accessories for the festival! The host was also friendly and responsive in communication. My group will bookmark this place and will try to stay here again next year.
AvantStay totally pulled through for us with this amazing property. When another listing fell through, this beautiful house fell into our lap, and we upgraded for sure. This place is walking distance to all the fun shops & murals on South Congress. There’s coffee and restaurants right around the corner. It’s also a short Uber ride to all the bars & restaurants Austin could offer. The house is stunning. The decor is top-notch. The communal space is open & great for hanging out. The pool area and outdoor space is unreal.
Seriously book your stay here nowwww!! The only thing missing was a full-length mirror in the guest house, but we hardly noticed!
Thank you for the wonderful experience. Our group of 14 had plenty of space and a wonderful weekend to remember!
The house was perfect! We celebrated my husband’s birthday with a small group of friends and the house was spacious, had very comfy beds with king beds for everyone. The pool was lovely and the backyard was perfect for hanging out and enjoying the day! We hiked in Joshua Tree and the park was so close with the park’s signature hiking trail literally up the road from the house! We also had a private chef in for dinner and it was perfect!
We had a great stay at this home. It was perfect for our large group and had everything we needed for a fun weekend. It was very clean and had wonderful special touches like high-end toiletry products in the bathroom. The house has tons of games and everything we needed for cooking meals for 14 people. We all talked about coming back in the future!
What an unbelievable home! Just as beautiful and lovely as the pictures. Plenty of room for our large family and yet so cozy. We love to cook and were very pleased when we saw how well stocked the kitchen is with cooking equipment (sheet pans, blender, serving bowls, you name it!!). It’s a great location between downtown Truckee and Tahoe City and there are even some nice trails steps away from the property. Amazing stay!
The place was perfect! Great location for Empire Polo grounds. Only took us minutes to get back each night. Also very close to Costco for pizza, ice, gas, and cases of water and other drinks. Plenty of outdoor entertainment with pool, spa, foosball, darts, corn hole, ping pong, and fire pit. Very spacious. Plenty of room for cooking for a group, playing board games, and just hanging out. Layout of 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms was perfect for our co-ed group. Personal touch welcoming was extra special and really appreciated. Communication was great and very helpful. Would definitely come back again! We had just as much (if not more) at our stay, as we did at our festival.
A high-quality guest experience is the backbone of a successful vacation rental business. Why not partner with the leading hospitality platform to bring that to your vacation rental?
We ensure that each home is stocked with anything guests might need during their stay, including an array of high-quality consumables and thoughtful localized welcome packages. If guests need additional supplies or want to begin their stay with a fully-stocked fridge, they can easily request that upgrade via our app.
AvantStay guests also have access to 24/7 live support via SMS, email, or phone, and we troubleshoot every issue to ensure they are well cared for so you can sit back and relax. By resolving 90% of guest issues on the first call, we receive higher ratings and better guest satisfaction scores than any other manager in the space.
Coachella & Stagecoach – you were on fire this year. A handful of our favorite brands set up activations at our vacation homes and invited some of the hottest celebs and influencers currently gracing our FYPs. Take a look inside our star-studded homes and you’ll see proof of why your fave brands know to have their events with us.
Ready to party?
@pierresnaps
Camp Poosh
If you’re a true Kardashian stan, we assume you followed along for the first annual Camp Poosh held at Buena Vista by AvantStay. ICYMI, they came back for seconds. Almost doubling in experiences, vendors and pop-ups, Poosh really showed out for Coachella weekend 1 this year.
A true favorite among all, Buena Vista is a one-of-a-kind estate located in Thermal, CA. This desert oasis includes over 40 acres of land, a freshwater lake with a paddle boat, paddle boards, kayaks, bonfire-style fire pit, a 60 ft. pool and spa, oversized lounge areas, a gourmet kitchen, cruiser bikes, and even private sports courts (bocce ball, tennis, pickleball, volleyball and a soccer field). If that wasn’t enough to sell you, might we add it’s only a 10 minute drive to the Polo Fields.
For your very own taste of a Buena Vista event (or wedding), head here.
Back to our regularly scheduled programming. Like we said, Poosh really showed out this year and we want to tell you all about it. Let’s get to it, because we totally know that’s what you came here for.
@pierresnaps
Welcome to Camp Poosh
In true summer camp fashion, campers are greeted with a large “Camp Poosh” sign and branded Camp Bulletin Board upon arrival. Once they’ve found some parking, campers head inside where they’ll find their bunk room complete with a Slip Silk bedding and a curated welcome kit – only the best for a guest list as star-studded as this one.
@poosh@pierresnaps@pierresnaps
Wellness
The Pooshies started the weekend off right with a plethora of wellness activities. From Platefit’s Core and Booty workouts, saunas, cold plunges, they were truly detoxing before the retox.
@pierresnaps@pierresnaps@pierresnaps
Beauty + Fashion
Now that you’re feeling great, it’s time to look great, too. After breaking a sweat, campers cleaned up and headed to the Aveda Hair Garden, Shark Beauty Style Shop Salon, and Anastasia Beverly Hills makeup station.
@pierresnaps@pierresnaps
And you already know the fits were on fire. Campers could head inside to Camp Poosh Outfitters by DSW where they’d have their pick at hand-picked items from Lucky Brand, Lee Jeans, Dr. Martens, Vans, Steve Madden, and Tevas.
@poosh@poosh
Things to Do
Not that’d you’d ever run out of things to do staying at Buena Vista, but Poosh brought plenty of play for their Pooshies.
Thursday night, campers could cozy up by the campfire and roast marshmallows for s’mores made with Lindt chocolate (yum!).
@pierresnaps@pierresnaps
On Friday, Drew Martin held a joint bar and taught campers how to roll (as if they didn’t already know) – but also supplied plenty of pre-rolls like a grab & go bar we’ve always dreamed of. The Camp Cocktail bar served by Magic & Cocktails was poppin’ and resident DJ Carter Cruise was slaying the decks.
Marc Patrick/BFA.com@pierresnaps@pierresnaps
ByChari had a designated area for VIP campers to create their own pearl-beaded belly chains or custom designed piercings with earrings designed by Kourtney. The Sis Kiss offered permanent jewelry that symbolized the permanence of Kourt + Travis’ love.
@pierresnaps@pierresnaps@poosh
Campers could head to Slip Silk’s glamped-out tent for a photo op where everything was soft ‘n’ silky. With silk sleeping bags, silk pajamas, bedding, sleep masks and more, camp photographer Pierre was getting all those IG-worthy shots.
@pierresnaps@pierresnaps
On Saturday, Mike Posner graced te grounds with an energetic set. The DJ from Kourt + Travis’ wedding (DJ Cassidy) even made a guest appearance.
Food + Bevvies
After all that, we hope you’re hungry. Camp Poosh was prepped for the munchies with an entire Food Hall. Monty’s Good Burger had its own tent, Postmates had a popsicle stand, and Trill Burgers was serving all day.
@pierresnaps@pierresnaps@pierresnaps
Yes, we know sweets aren’t food, but they still are delicious. Smart Sweets a grab & go store for campers to get whatever they were craving.
@pierresnaps@poosh
Celsius supplied a canteen, an ice lunge, and a fruit cart by Gourmelatas.
@poosh
Saturday morning, everyone gathered ‘round and sang HBD to Kourt around the cutest Aries Baby cake.
@pierresnaps@pierresnaps
That’s all for Camp Poosh, but we’re only getting started.
Celcius
With an ice-sculpted pitcher pouring out colder-than-ice cold Celcius, they really brought the energy here at Mirabella by AvantStay. What’s a Mirabella, you may ask?
TL/DR: Mirabella is an equestrian compound with three homes, a private barn, a 5-hole pitch and putt golf course, and a private lake with a dock and 3-tier waterfall for kayaking and paddle boating. Ok maybe that was too long, but you definitely read it – right?
AvantStay
Anyway, during Coachella weekend 1, Celsius held an event to launch their new Oasis Vibe flavors and they hosted some of our favorites – Paris Jackson, Alessandra Ambrosio, Shaun White, and Sara Sampaio to name a few.
Getty Images for CELSIUSGetty Images for CELSIUSGetty Images for CELSIUS
Stagecoach Music Festival
Fast forward and we’re at Stagecoach Music Festival.
Helen Owen
Back at Buena Vista, we had one of our repeat VIP guests,Helen Owen, stay the weekend. Helen invited her besties for the launch of her new clothing line collab with Feat, and she did not disappoint.
Helen added an AvantStay private chef to her stay who set up a gorgeous brunch with a yogurt parfait, fruit platter, sweet potato hash, skillet frittata, waffles, bacon and roasted potatoes. Sounds like the pre-fest feast of our dreams, TBH.
Girl With No Job
Podcaster & social media influencer Claudia Oshry (@girlwithnojob) spent Stagecoach with us at Legends along with her sister Margot and Shannon Ford. While she was there, she recorded her podcast and plenty of entertaining TikToks.
@claudwithnojob@claudwithnojob
No more FOMO
Don’t let FOMO hit again next year. Get ahead of the crowd and lock in your stay for Coachella Valley’s hottest fests, while you still can.
Pack your bags and bring the whole gang because planning your next family reunion trip just got a whole lot easier! Finding a place big enough for your crazy, fun-loving family can be tough. Fear not—AvantStay vacation rentals are perfect for hosting your crew, with enough space for small families to groups of 20 guests or more.
At our vacation homes, expect to find bunk beds for the little ones, as well as games and family-friendly amenities that will keep everyone entertained. You can also add on a personal chef or fridge-stocking on arrival so you can take advantage of every second of your time together rather than spending your vacation cooking and grocery shopping.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy mountain cabin or a breezy beach house, these rentals are the ultimate destination for a memorable family reunion gathering.
Polly — Destin, Florida
7 Bedrooms | 18 Guests Introducing Polly, the adorable beach house that offers triple the fun with its unique triple bunk bed. Just imagine all the cousins in one room for the ultimate slumber party! Along with its charming features, such as a front porch, screened porch, and patio with a pool, grill, and dining table, the property also includes a separate carriage house for guests seeking more privacy. Enjoy Florida’s perfect weather and create lasting memories with family and friends on the nearby beach.
5 Bedrooms | 12 Guests Lumie, an airy ranch-style home located near Isle of Palms Beach, is the ideal location for your next South Carolina adventure. With five bedrooms, including two with bunk beds, and large living and dining areas, there’s ample space for your family to relax and unwind. Enjoy your morning coffee on the covered porch, dine al fresco at the outdoor table, and gather around the firepit for evening conversations. Lumie boasts stylish decor and convenient amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for everyone—from the kids to the in-laws.
6 Bedrooms | 20 Guests Camila is a modern architectural mansion in Temecula offering luxurious living with abundant style, amenities, and comfort. With a room for up to 20 people, this vacation rental is equipped with a guest house and features stunning outdoor spaces, including a private pool, hot tub, balcony lounge, and multiple al fresco dining areas, all with breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. The interior boasts a sprawling floor plan with billiards and recreation rooms, spacious bedrooms, and a chic kitchen that’s easy to keep stocked with groceries from the convenient shopping in town. This breathtaking mansion promises an unforgettable upscale experience for your family.
12 Bedrooms | 36 Guests Big family? No problem. Wanderer is an oversized cabin in Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains, designed to accommodate large groups. There are dual dining tables and a bar room with extra seating so there’s space for everyone to grab a spot. Wanderer also features a unique indoor pool with a decorative waterfall and views of the outdoors, two spacious decks with a hot tub and grills, a recreation area, a movie room with theater seating, and a private balcony off the primary bedroom. It’s the ultimate Appalachian retreat for a family reunion—you’ll never need to leave the property!
6 Bedrooms | 24 Guests Sunbeam is a stunning Mediterranean hilltop oasis in Arizona that offers mesmerizing panoramic views. This elegant retreat features master-crafted finishes, custom cabinetry, an infinity pool, a steamy spa, and an upstairs patio where you can enjoy a morning coffee. It’s the perfect place for family reunions as the spacious interior flows effortlessly, making entertaining the whole group a pleasure. Gather around the outdoor dining table to share stories and hors d’oeuvres with your loved ones and retire to the family room for a nightcap at the wet bar.
11 Bedrooms | 24 Guests River Lodge is an immaculate, hill-top home built in the late 1890s with local stone and a vintage sunlit country kitchen. With views of the Hudson River in every room, this lodge offers a two-story rustic library, dining room with exposed brick, and sprawling light-filled common room. The lodge has three primary bedrooms and six smaller rooms, perfect for extended families to spread out. Spend your days relaxing in the pool, hot tub, or on the river with unbeatable views.
7 Bedrooms | 20 Guests Vista is a stunningly stylish home atop the hills of La Jolla with unparalleled Pacific Ocean views. The interior exudes modern elegance with Italian mid-century design, while the bright tones allow for an abundance of light and an ideal indoor-outdoor flow. With a pool, spa, fire pit, hammock, bocce set, beach gear, and an expansive patio, Vista is perfect for making unforgettable memories with loved ones, making it the ideal location for family reunions.
6 Bedrooms | 16 Guests Experience the serenity of the Alpine Meadows by staying at our gorgeous 6-bedroom home, Explorer. Perfect for families and friends, our spacious and open-spaced layout boasts high ceilings and stunning wood beams, providing the ultimate relaxation experience. The game room, complete with a poker table and foosball, offers friendly competition, while the chef’s dream kitchen comes equipped with modern appliances and ample counter space for cooking and enjoying cocktails. After an exciting day of outdoor activities, unwind by the fireplace or enjoy a game of pool in the second living area. With plenty of space for everyone, our Lake Tahoe vacation home is the perfect place to gather for a multigenerational trip with family!
The short-term rental market continues to grow exponentially with both supply and demand at an all-time high. Domestic travel, especially in drive-to markets, remains steady even in the current economic climate. To get a better understanding of what guests look for when booking a vacation, we dove into the numbers.
Using 6 months of proprietary data (January 1, 2022 – June 30, 2022) from AvantStay.com and over 25,000 vacation rental bookings, we learned more about where guests want to travel, how they travel, and what matters to them most during their stays.
These destinations reigned supreme as travelers planned their getaways in the first half of 2022. Country music fans flocked to Nashville and snowbirds headed south and out west to escape the cold. Here are the top 10 most searched-for destinations on the AvantStay platform:
Nashville, TN
Oregon Coast, OR
Scottsdale, AZ
San Diego, CA
Big Bear, CA
Oahu, HI
Lake Tahoe, CA
Coachella Valley, CA
Destin, FL
Temecula, CA
Get to know our guests
We combine the amenities of a hotel with the comfort and privacy of a home, creating the premier vacation rental platform for group travel. We’ve hosted over 750,000 guests in groups of all sizes, but here’s a snapshot of an average AvantStay reservation:
4.5 days – average length of stay
6 – average number of guests per booking
Wednesday – most popular day to book a trip
More short-term rental trends and guest preferences
Interested in more vacation rental trends and what AvantStay guests consider “must haves” when booking a stay? Check out our complete 2023 Vacation Rental Trends report for the top amenities filtered for and more!
Central Oregon is one of the best destinations in the United States for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, delicious food and drink, and relaxation. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or colleagues, there are plenty of things to do and see in this beautiful region of the Pacific Northwest. And if you’re looking for the perfect accommodation for your group, look no further than AvantStay vacation rentals for a luxury stay, beautiful design, and premium amenities for everyone.
Let’s dive into the 18 top things to do in Central Oregon together!
1. Hiking Trails
Central Oregon is home to some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the United States. From the Deschutes River Trail to the Tumalo Falls Trail, you’ll find hiking trails that are perfect for all levels of hikers. One of the most popular hikes is the Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park. This challenging trail offers incredible views of the Crooked River Canyon and the surrounding mountains.
2. Mountain Biking Trails
Central Oregon is also a top destination for mountain bikers. There are over 300 miles of mountain biking trails in the area, ranging from easy to advanced. The Phil’s Trailhead network is a popular starting point for many mountain bikers, with trails that wind through the beautiful pine forests.
3. Water Activities
Central Oregon is home to many beautiful lakes and rivers, making it a great destination for water activities. You can go kayaking or paddle boarding on the Deschutes River, or spend a day on the beautiful Lake Billy Chinook. If you’re feeling adventurous, try white-water rafting on the McKenzie River!
4. Snow Sports
If you’re traveling during the colder seasons, Central Oregon is a winter wonderland, with world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities at Mt. Bachelor. The ski resort boasts over 4,000 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski resorts in the United States.
5. High Desert Museum
The High Desert Museum is an excellent place to learn about the natural and cultural history of Central Oregon. The museum has exhibits on everything from the Native American tribes that lived in the region to the plants and animals that call the high desert home.
6. Live Music Events
The Hayden Homes Amphitheater (formerly known as the Les Schwab Amphitheater) in Bend is a fantastic venue for live music events. The outdoor venue has hosted many big-name acts over the years, including Willie Nelson, Paul Simon, and Dave Matthews Band.
Source: Open Concept Architecture
7. Art Galleries and Shops
Downtown Bend is home to many fantastic art galleries and shops. You’ll find everything from pottery to paintings to jewelry made by local artists. Take a stroll through the downtown area and explore the many unique shops and galleries.
8. Craft Beer Scene
Central Oregon is a beer-lover’s paradise, with over 30 breweries in the region. From the award-winning Deschutes Brewery to the funky and experimental Crux Fermentation Project, you’ll find plenty of great options for craft beer in Central Oregon.
9. Wine Tasting
The Central Oregon region is also home to many fantastic wineries. You can take a wine tour and sample the local varietals, including pinot noir, chardonnay, and riesling. One of our favorite wineries is Faith, Hope and Charity Vineyards, located in Terrebonne. This winery offers stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and a variety of wines, including Pinot Noir and Tempranillo.
You can also check out Volcano Vineyards, a Bend-based winery that produces unique and award-winning wines, such as their Lava Red blend and Pinot Noir. They also have a tasting room in Tumalo.
We also recommend Maragas Winery, located in Culver, and known for their Estate Tempranillo and other Spanish-style wines. They offer tastings, tours, and events throughout the year.
10. Local Cuisine
Central Oregon has a thriving farm-to-table restaurant scene, with many restaurants using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You’ll also find plenty of food carts serving up everything from gourmet burgers to Thai street food. Here are a few of our favorites:
Chow, located in Bend, offers seasonal menus featuring locally sourced ingredients. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner and have a cozy atmosphere.
Pronghorn Resort has two farm-to-table restaurants: Cascada and Chanterelle. Both restaurants offer fresh, locally sourced ingredients and unique dishes.
Ariana is a cozy fine-dining restaurant in Bend that features seasonal menus using local ingredients. They offer a prix fixe menu and a la carte options.
Source: Visit Central Oregon
11. Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park is one of the most popular destinations in Central Oregon. The park is known for its incredible rock formations and stunning views of the Crooked River Canyon. The Misery Ridge Trail is a must-do hike for anyone visiting the park.
12. Newberry National Volcanic Monument
The Newberry National Volcanic Monument is a unique destination that offers a glimpse into the area’s volcanic past. The monument features lava flows, cinder cones, and other geological wonders. You can take a hike to the top of Lava Butte, a cinder cone that offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
13. Lava Butte
Lava Butte is a must-see destination in Central Oregon. This cinder cone offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and lava fields. You can take a hike to the top or drive up to the summit.
14. Spas and Hot Springs
Central Oregon is a great place to relax and unwind. There are many spas and hot springs in the area, including the McMenamins Old St. Francis School in Bend and the Belknap Hot Springs in the McKenzie River Valley.
Source: Oyster
15. Yoga Classes and Retreats
If you’re looking to de-stress and rejuvenate, consider taking a yoga class or attending a yoga retreat in Central Oregon. The area is home to many yoga studios and wellness centers.
Brasada Ranch, located in Powell Butte, offers a variety of yoga classes and retreats throughout the year. Their yoga classes take place in a beautiful, serene setting with stunning views of the Cascade Mountains. They also offer other wellness activities such as hiking, biking, and spa treatments.
Brasada Ranch has received many positive reviews from guests who have attended their yoga retreats. People rave about the beautiful location, the high-quality yoga classes, and the friendly staff. The resort also offers luxurious accommodations and delicious farm-to-table cuisine, making it a great choice for a relaxing and rejuvenating yoga retreat in Central Oregon.
16. Scenic Drives
Central Oregon is home to many beautiful scenic drives. You can take a drive through the McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway or the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway for stunning views of the mountains and lakes.
17. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Take a hot air balloon ride – Central Oregon’s stunning natural beauty is best appreciated from above, and a hot air balloon ride is one of the most unique and thrilling ways to experience it. Several companies offer hot air balloon rides over the region, giving you a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape.
18. Explore the Painted Hills
Located in the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, the Painted Hills are a unique and colorful geological formation. The hills are made up of layers of volcanic ash that have been eroded into stunning patterns of red, orange, and yellow.
Central Oregon offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences to relaxation. With so many great things to do and see in the area, you’ll never be bored.
If you’re planning a trip to Central Oregon with a group, consider staying in an AvantStay vacation rental. With properties that can accommodate up to 20 guests, you’ll have plenty of space to relax and enjoy your vacation. AvantStay offers properties with all the amenities and features you need to make your stay unforgettable. Book your stay today and start planning your Central Oregon adventure! Ready to check out other outdoor adventures and national parks? Explore our top vacation homes located near national parks across the country.
Ready to create a five-star guest experience and increase the return on your vacation rental investment? A great starting point is by adding experiential elements and sought-after amenities to your home. Vacation rental amenities help create an exceptional guest experience, drive more positive reviews, and ultimately increase your rental income. This article is the latest addition in our series breaking down popular amenities and the advantages they create, by market type. Keep reading to discover our top amenity picks for vineyard vacation rentals.
The importance of vacation rental amenities
In competitive markets, like Temecula, the vacation rentals that are going to get more bookings and drive strong returns are the one-of-a-kind and exciting homes that stand out from the rest. If you have unique amenities, like an outdoor kitchen overlooking a vineyard, showcase these in some of the first photos on your listing page to grab guests’ attention. Before we reveal what the top vineyard vacation rental amenities are, let’s cover the benefits of investing in interior design and luxury amenities.
Attract more guests
58% of millennials make their booking decision based on the first five photos of the home. Professionally designed properties with new furnishings, stylish decor, and top-of-the-line amenities attract guests who appreciate and respect the elements that make your home unique.
Earn higher ratings
Homes with thoughtfully designed interiors and amenities are directly linked to higher ratings and referrals from guests. An appealing and comfortable home where guests can gather and entertain has a proven positive effect on the guest experience.
Increase your revenue
Helping homeowners choose and install the right amenities is just one part of how AvantStay maximizes your property’s value and increases your profit by up to 20-30%. You’ll notice a surge in bookings as guests prefer to stay at properties with professionally designed interiors and experiential amenities for the whole group to enjoy.
Best vacation rental amenities for vineyard homes
Vacation rental amenities can make the difference between a four and five-star review. But which amenities are guests looking for? We dove into our data to discover what amenities drive the greatest returns in our vineyard vacation rentals. Below are our findings from one year of performance metrics from our Temecula, Sonoma, and Paso Robles vacation rental homes.
Pools & spas
Allow guests to maximize their time outside with a pool and spa. Adding a pool to your vacation rental is the #1 amenity investment you can make. Vineyard market homes with a pool see these premiums compared to homes without a pool:
68% higher ADRs
64% greater RevPAU (revenue per available unit)
43% more revenue per bedroom
A hot tub is another great amenity for vineyard market homes. However, you won’t see as substantial returns with a hot tub as you will with a pool. Our homes with both a pool and spa do see 22% higher ADRs and 27% greater RevPAU than homes with neither.
Fire pits
Another top (and dare I say “hot”) vacation rental amenity in vineyard markets is a fire pit. Fire pits are the perfect amenity for guests who want to wind down after a long day of wine tasting, as golden hour hangs turn into stargazing. Homes with this amenity see 42% higher ADRs, 69% greater RevPAU, and 57% more revenue per bedroom than homes without a fire pit.
Bonus outdoor experiential features
If you’re looking to improve your amenity offerings, install another outdoor experiential feature instead of an indoor game room. Based on our findings, guests visiting vineyard markets are looking to enjoy the fresh air instead of spending time indoors. Outdoor kitchens and outdoor sport courts are two popular amenity options.
Homes with an option to cook and dine al fresco see 26% greater RevPAU and 29% more revenue per bedroom than homes without an outdoor kitchen and dining setup.
On the activity side, homes with an outdoor sport court see 25% higher ADRs and 32% greater RevPAU than homes without. Cornhole, bocce ball, and horseshoes and great options for vineyard market vacation rentals.
Mountain and vineyard views
While it’s not a tangible amenity, one of the highest ROI drivers for vineyard vacation rentals is an “Instagrammable” view. Homes with a view of the mountains or vineyards (or both) see 55% higher ADRs, 74% greater RevPAU, and 36% more revenue per bedroom than homes without a view. If you’re looking to make your next vacation rental investment in a vineyard market, don’t think twice about securing a spot with a breathtaking view.
Level up your vacation rental with AvantStay
Only AvantStay homeowners have access to our award-winning Interior Design team that elevates homes in under nine days, instantly increasing your home’s equity and maximizing your ROI. We believe the best accommodations are designed to enhance every aspect of a guest’s travels, which is why we transform beautiful homes into incredible experiences that foster unforgettable memories.
We help procure high-quality, durable furniture and upscale amenities, and coordinate delivery and installation on your behalf so you don’t have to lift a finger. Our thoughtfully designed spaces encourage gathering and allow guests to make the most of their time at your home—leaving them recharged and ready to write a five-star review!
Are you looking to upgrade your vacation rental design and amenities? Our interior designers can create a custom, locally inspired space that guests love. If you’re interested in learning more about AvantStay’s design, procurement, and vacation rental management services, our team of experts is ready to help. Get started today!
The US short-term rental industry continues to see steady growth despite the broader volatile market, with supply and demand seeing positive year-over-year increases. Whether you’re just starting out in the STR industry or a seasoned vacation rental investor, consistent demand for short-term rentals is your sign to consider working with a property manager.
Managing short-term rentals requires a lot of time and effort, so many homeowners choose to outsource operations to a vacation rental management company, like AvantStay. Keep reading to discover how AvantStay’s management services can help you earn more revenue from your vacation home.
What is a property manager and what do they do?
A property manager, or a vacation rental manager, is responsible for all operational aspects of running your short-term rental. This can include marketing, pricing and listing your home, managing reservations, home maintenance, and housekeeping. While these are all standard responsibilities of a property manager, AvantStay goes the extra mile by offering all of these services and more, including interior design, photography, and in-app upgrades and experiences. So, what exactly should you expect from a premium vacation rental manager like AvantStay? Let’s dive in.
Responsibilities of a vacation rental manager:
Revenue management
Marketing and distribution
Guest screening and security
Guest care
Cleaning and maintenance
Compliance
Revenue management
A good vacation rental property manager will be able to strategically price your short-term rental to increase your profit. AvantStay’s pricing strategy is designed to optimize for total revenue. We balance capturing the maximum amount a guest is willing to pay per night with maximizing total nights booked.
Our dynamic pricing model segments each year into 75+ pricing seasons that capture optimal revenue based on occupancy, day of the week, fluctuations in weather, travel patterns, holidays, and market events. We combine our technology with the power of our in-house Revenue Management team that consistently reviews pricing for every home to adjust for real-time changes in demand.
Marketing and distribution
Even the most extravagant estate needs to be promoted to reach potential guests. A property manager will create a listing for your short-term rental and distribute it across relevant online travel agencies (OTAs).
With AvantStay, our powerful distribution capabilities are included in your management agreement. 40% of bookings come directly through the AvantStay website, but we also optimize each listing across more than 65 distribution channels including Airbnb, Vrbo, La Cure, LVH, TripAdvisor, Expedia, Booking.com, and Homes & Villas by Marriott International.
Before we create your listing, our award-winning interior designers provide you with extensive design recommendations to enhance your home’s overall appeal based on your budget. We then help procure high-quality and durable furnishings and experiential items like games, pool tables, outdoor fire pits, and more. Next, our Design and Photography teams develop a marketing and photography plan that best highlights the experiences and amenities to our guests. We stage, style, and photograph your home to showcase the property’s best characteristics across listings.
Guest screening and security
You should never have to worry about who is staying in your home and how it’s being treated. Property managers implement and enforce house rules and policies to keep your home protected and your neighbors undisturbed.
With a vacation rental manager like AvantStay, peace of mind comes first. All incoming guests are fully vetted during their booking process and every home is equipped with cutting-edge smart technology that monitors entry surveillance, noise levels, and occupancy.
To complement our in-home monitoring technology, we have a team of full-time employees in each market available 24/7 for dispatch to your home.
Guest care
A property manager should go above and beyond to make sure guests have the best experience at your home. Our guests have access to 24/7 live support via SMS, email, or phone and we troubleshoot every issue to ensure they are well-cared for so homeowners can sit back and relax without any interruptions. By resolving 90% of guest issues on the first call, we receive higher ratings and better guest satisfaction, driving more five-star reviews.
We also take care of stocking the home with guest-ready supplies and provide personalized, thoughtful welcome packages ahead of every stay. Guests can also take advantage of our in-app upgrades and experiences to book a private chef or in-home massages, request fridge stocking, schedule mid-stay cleans, and more. By going the extra mile, our happy guests leave positive reviews and turn into repeat visitors.
Cleaning and maintenance
The condition of your home will make or break a great first impression. Property managers are responsible for overseeing the housekeeping and maintenance of your short-term rental, keeping it in excellent shape for the next group of guests. AvantStay has teams dedicated to field operations that manage utilities, services, maintenance, and housekeeping on our owners’ behalf. Our number one priority is ensuring that homes are cared for in a timely manner and that there are no interruptions to our guests.
We also provide CDC-compliant supplies to our housekeeping staff at no additional charge to homeowners. These cleaning supplies are also available to guests, so they can choose to keep the home tidy throughout their stay.
Compliance
From permits and zoning restrictions to taxes and insurance, a vacation rental property manager will help keep you safe from hefty fines and legal repercussions. Unlike other property managers, AvantStay has fully dedicated and experienced accounting, permitting, and tax professionals to provide peace of mind and cover all of your compliance needs. Our Policy and Risk team handles all administrative duties related to initial permitting and renewals of short-term rental permits, home inspections, occupancy taxes, and HOA and government relations.
Is a vacation rental property manager right for you?
Hiring a vacation rental manager will not only create a stress-free experience for you, but give you more time and money to reinvest in your property portfolio or spend with friends and family. Owning a vacation home can be expensive and time-consuming, so we offer the first hands-off approach for short-term rental owners. We use a proprietary tech suite to power bookings, operationalize in-field management, and activate an elevated guest experience. If you have questions, our team of experts is here to help. Why not partner with an expert to unlock your vacation rental’s full value? Get started with our team today!
Grab your boots, besties, we’re going hiking. If you’ve been meaning to cross some of our nation’s great parks off your bucket list, let this be your sign to do it. From Joshua Tree National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains, we’ve got vacation homes next to all things outdoors. Ready to explore? Let’s go!
Joshua Tree National Park
Asteroid – Twentynine Palms, CA
Get in touch with nature at Asteroid. Located right by Joshua Tree National Park, each and every corner of this home’s yard features views of the desert surrounding you. Take a day trip hiking and enjoy coming home to this aesthetically pleasing stay with al fresco dining, a hot tub, and a fire pit.
Flora – Yucca Valley, CA
True to the desert, Joshua Tree can get pretty hot. That’s why we decided to include this Joshua Tree vacation rental with a pool. Flora is what you’d call a “desert oasis,” with its modern interior design, al fresco dining, and hot tub for those chillier nights.
Not only isFloragreat for its bodies of water, but it’s also pretty great at being a wedding venue. Don’t take it from us, take it from our friends at Architectural Digest.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Camber – Breckenridge, CO
This whole town might be high, but you’ll be too once you experience Breckenridge. Spend days exploring the Rocky Mountain National Park and all its beauty, then come home to Camber where the outdoors is anything but MIA. Take a breath of fresh air from the hot tub, dine out on the patio, cozy up by the fireplace, and cheers to this mountain getaway.
Rocker – Breckenridge, CO
Want to be next to the slopes on days you don’t go hiking? Try a stay at Rocker. This ski-in, ski-out stay is located just steps from the Quicksilver Chairlift in Breckenridge. Say hello to luxe amenities like this stay’s indoor/outdoor pool, gym, hot tubs, and saunas for all the decompression your heart can handle.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Crystalline – Sevierville, TN
Based on a study we totally didn’t make up, you’re twice as likely to enjoy your hikes when you have a home this great to come home to. Crystalline is the quintessential Smoky Mountains AvantStay – meaning it comes complete with decks on multiple levels, hot tubs, outdoor dining, a movie room, and views for days.
For those looking for a more humble (but not too humble) abode, try a stay at Carter Creek. This is in Gatlinburg, home of Ole Smoky Mountain Moonshine. And not that we’re in the business of falsifying scientific studies over here, but moonshine does seem to be pretty good at making those post-hike pains dissipate. Other great things about this home: its fire pit, hot tub, and pool table.
Crater Lake National Park
Smith – Powell Butte, OR
Ever been toCrater Lake National Park? This park is home to America’s deepest and bluest lake and is Oregon’s only national park! Stop sleeping and secure your stay at Smith, an Oregon oasis located just a hop, skip, and a jump away in Powell Butte. After a day full of exploring, vibe out on this home’s balcony – complete with a hot tub, al fresco dining, and fire pit.
Black Bear Cabin – Bend, OR
For a more secluded stay, take a trip to Black Bear Cabin. This stay blends modern luxury with the natural beauty of the landscape you came for. Enjoy Bend’s open skies and stunning sunsets from the backyard with a hot tub, lounge space, and a BBQ/grill for those fresh air meals you’ve been craving.
Grand Canyon National Park
Roca Roja – Sedona, AZ
If you don’t have the Grand Canyon National Park on your bucket list, WYD? While you’re at it, cross off “stay at the coolest vacation home ever” from your list (we know it’s there) with a stay at Roca Roja in Sedona. And we hate to admit it, but the views from this home’s balcony are so good, you might just forget to take a trip to the parks.
Sol House – Scottsdale, AZ
Want to see the Grand Canyon but would rather be a bit more immersed in city life? Take a trip to Scottsdale. We recommend a stay at Sol House. It’s next to all things Scottsdale – plus boasts features like a private pool, bright and airy interiors, outdoor dining, corn hole, a fire pit, and an expansive deck.
Located near Charleston, you’ll find Congaree National Park. ICYMI: this park has the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the US. When you’re not lost in the world of biodiversity that is Congaree, you can rest your head at Live Oak – our Charleston vacation home that blends indoor/outdoor living and gives you all you need for some well-deserved R&R.
Haven – Sullivans Island, SC
Let’s go to the beach! Create the perfectly stacked itinerary with days spent exploring Congaree, posting up on the beach with a read, and exploring the lively history that is Charleston. The first step to making all this happen is with a stay at Haven, our beachfront vacation home with a private pool, rooftop balcony, and plenty of spots to lounge.
The exploration doesn’t stop here. Apart from its seamless group travel experience and a plentiful selection of luxury in-app upgrades, AvantStay homes are in primo outdoor locations – even more than what we just covered in this article. Click here to see all our destinations and we’ll see you soon!
As the summer months begin to approach, many people start planning their summer vacations. June is the perfect time to travel as the weather is typically pleasant and the crowds are not as overwhelming as during peak summer months. If you are looking for some inspiration on where to go on vacation, here are ten great recommendations for the best places to visit in June. We’ll also give you the lowdown on what to do there and a vacation home recommendation for each location that’s perfect for a group getaway.
Malibu is known for its stunning beaches, beautiful scenery, and luxurious homes. In June, the weather is perfect for a day at the beach, and you can also explore the nearby Santa Monica Mountains for hiking and biking. For a taste of luxury, consider visiting the Malibu Wine Safari, where you can take a guided tour of a vineyard and meet some exotic animals.
Destin is a popular beach destination in Florida, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches. In June, the water is warm and perfect for swimming, and you can also go deep-sea fishing or take a dolphin-watching tour. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, which has a variety of marine animals, including sea turtles and sharks.
Hudson Valley, New York – The Hudson Valley is a picturesque region in upstate New York known for its scenic drives, charming towns, and historic sites. In June, you can take a hot air balloon ride to see the stunning views from above or visit the Storm King Art Center, which is home to large-scale outdoor sculptures.
The Oregon Coast is a rugged and scenic stretch of coastline that spans over 300 miles. In June, you can enjoy hiking and wildlife watching in the various state parks along the coast, such as Cape Lookout State Park or Ecola State Park. You can also visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory or go on a whale-watching tour.
Hilton Head is a beautiful island off the coast of South Carolina, known for its golf courses and beautiful beaches. Take a dolphin-watching tour or go on a sunset cruise. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at kayaking or paddle boarding in the calm waters.
Nashville is known as the “Music City” and is home to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, as well as the Grand Ole Opry. In June, you can catch a live show at the Ryman Auditorium or visit the Johnny Cash Museum. You can also explore the city’s food scene with a food tour or visit the Belle Meade Plantation for a taste of history. Where to stay: Shelton
Sonoma is a wine country destination known for its vineyards and beautiful scenery. In June, you can take a guided wine tour and taste some of the region’s finest wines. You can also visit the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, which has some of the tallest trees in the world.
The Smoky Mountains are a beautiful mountain range that straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. In June, you can go hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or visit Dollywood, an amusement park that features shows, rides, and attractions.
Charleston is a charming southern city known for its historic architecture and beautiful gardens. In June, you can take a walking tour of the city’s historic district or visit the Charleston City Market, which has a variety of artisanal crafts and food. You can also visit the nearby plantations to learn about the city’s history.
Swimming in Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters is a must-do activity in June. Many of the lake’s beaches are open during this time, including Kings Beach, Sand Harbor, and Zephyr Cove. Visitors can also enjoy boating on the lake, either by renting a boat or joining a guided tour.
CRM stands for “Customer Relationship Management,” but not in the way you may think. I don’t actually have any direct conversations with our customers. I’m more of a behind-the-scenes relationship builder. Some may also refer to my role as a Lifecycle Marketing Manager or Retention Marketing Manager. My goal is to build trust and personalized relationships with our brand through our CRM comms.
How long have you worked at AvantStay?
Just hit 1 year this month (April 2022)!
How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field?
Basically, my job is all about trying to keep people coming back for more at AvantStay. I leverage emails, push, and in-app messages to drive direct bookings. We can personalize these messages based on homes people have stayed at, regions they’ve browsed, etc. to make their experience with our brand feel more personalized. I’m always trying to think of new ways we can communicate our value propositions with our consumers, while simultaneously analyzing data and performance to try to predict consumer behavior and make our marketing even more powerful.
How do you like to start your work day?
I like to start by making my bed, which my dog usually insists on helping with. Then I take him for a nice walk outside before the screen time begins!
What teams do you collaborate the most with at work?
Brand & Creative, Product, Engineering
What is your favorite thing about working at AvantStay?
My favorite thing about working at AvantStay would have to be the people. I’ve met some incredibly talented and smart people here. Everyone is also incredibly caring, passionate about what we do, and always open to trying new things.
What advice would you give to someone looking to join your team?
It’s cheesy, but expect the unexpected every day. You gotta be able to roll with the punches and be flexible!
What is something that you’re proud of that you’ve accomplished in your role?
This is not a very sexy response, but I’m proudest of building out a process between CRM and the Creative/Brand team. When I started, we were building and scheduling emails on the day of send. Today, we are scheduling emails over two weeks out, which gives our team a lot more breathing room, and more flexibility to take time off and enjoy our homes!
What is something that most people don’t know about you?
We Don’t Talk About Bruno was in my Top 100 Spotify songs in 2022, but I still haven’t seen Encanto.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love a healthy mix of yoga, watching Love Island UK, and hanging out with friends and family.
Which AvantStay is on your bucket list?
Matador in Malibu, CA. I can’t get enough of the views!
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
My Nana used to always say to me, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” Good things take time, and I think that applies to both your personal and professional life.
Ready to make a splash? If you’re ISO of the ultimate decompression session, there’s nothing quite like a vacation rental complete with your very own infinity pool. Whether you’re looking to escape your everyday life or just want to spruce up your IG feed, these AvantStays with infinity pools are the perfect place to do so. Let’s dive in.
1. Pinot Point – Temecula
A stay at Pinot Point calls for a glass of Pinot. Experience Temecula the way it was meant to be – infinity poolside at a sprawling estate with luxe amenities like an outdoor bar and grill, ping pong table, and a hot tub with views for days.
2. Syrah – Sonoma
Welcome toSyrah, a proper Sonomastay complete with a roomy deck, loungers, and, of course, an infinity pool. If you’re into interior design, this one’s for you. You’ll love everything about this home’s style – from its open floor plan to plush furnishings, large windows, and French doors.
3. Fowler – Coachella
The only party fowl we recognize is not booking your next trip to Coachella Valley. Fowleris a quintessential La Quinta, CA stay with its bright and airy design, billiards room, infinity pool with a hot tub, and outdoor fireplace. And it’s not like we can take credit for them, but we’ve gotta say the sunsets here are oh-so-special.
4. Sunbeam – Scottsdale
Looking to cross Scottsdale off your bucket list? Why not do so via the infinity-poolside at Sunbeam? This Mediterranean hilltop oasis features panoramic views of its AZ surroundings, stunning interior design, and a hot tub perfect for cooling off after a long day of hiking at any of the nearby parks.
5. Casa del Arbol – Temecula
Tuscany meets Temecula at Casa del Arbol, this star-studded stay located in the rolling hills of our favorite part of wine country. It’s one of our faves for its pool, terrace, private hiking trail, and basketball court.
We’re not the only ones that have a soft spot for this stay – Casa del Arbol was featured on the Emmy award-winning TV show, Staycation! Click here to see the video.
6. Chardonnay – Sonoma
Okay, we’re not trying to brag here, but this Sonoma vacation rental was also featured on Staycation. Check out the video here, or stay here and let us lull you with all its amenities.Chardonnaycomes complete with an infinity pool (obviously), a billiards table, al fresco dining, stunning vista views, and vibey string lights for all your photo ops.
7. Black Rock – Scottsdale
It’s kind of hard to follow two vacation rentals that have their own TV episode, but if there’s anyone to do it, it’s Black Rock. Located in Scottsdale, this masterpiece of a home struts its stuff with a Pinterest-worthy infinity pool, upstairs balcony, in-home bar, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, and hot tub.
We show off a lot of incredible vacation home content on our socials, but one of our favorite posts was from Black Rock. Check it out here (and follow us for more!)
8. Warhol – Temecula
So you have a lot of friends? Take them to Warhol. This Temecula vacation rental can fit up to 28 guests. We’re not even sure if a group text can sustain that many people, but if you’ve got that many friends, cheers to you. This stay boasts an infinity pool, hot tub, pool table, ski ball table, shuffleboard, ping pong table, fire pit, balcony, and tons of board games.
9. Belleza – Sonoma
Bellissima? No, we said Belleza. Say hello to Sonoma at this hilltop home with a plentiful selection of outdoor seating, an outdoor grilling lounge, and ping pong. Enjoy multiple balconies, an inner courtyard, floor-to-ceiling windows, a chef’s kitchen inside, and a stone oven outside. When you’re ready to play, start a game of pool or shuffleboard. Oh, and we almost forgot to say, soak the day away in the infinity pool.
10. Owl’s Nest – Temecula
Ok, last time we’ll flex it, but here’s another stay that made it to Staycation.Owl’s Nest is a Temecula vacation home with room for up to 20 guests. It comes with a foosball table, billiards table, sauna, spa-style dual showers, an infinity pool, and a hot tub. Don’t believe us? Watch the video here.
The inspo doesn’t stop here. Apart from its seamless group travel experience and a plentiful selection of luxury in-app upgrades, AvantStay homes are in primo locations – even more than what we just covered in this article. Click here to see all of our destinations and we’ll see you soon!
GOTCHA! You’ve been April Fool’d – there is no AvantAuction.
All jokes aside, these items truly were left at our homes. We’re happy to report that most of them were claimed and returned to their owners – even the family dog that we absolutely got emotionally attached to.
Here’s all the tea on these (un)forgettable items, straight from the source (our area managers).
Tesla
Yeah, this one surprised us too. These vacationers left their Tessie in the garage of one of our vacation homes for over two weeks because they lost their keys. Unfortunately, they actually did come back for it.
Single Sock
No, the washing machine didn’t eat the other one. Places we’ve found them: the drawer, in between the mattress, on the stairs. We’ve found so many socks in so many places we could honestly rebrand as a clothing accessory store.
The Family Dog
For what it’s worth, he was a very good boy. When a family vacation came to an end, they packed up their two cars to hit the road. The guests in the first car thought the guests in the second car had the dog—and vice versa. The poor pup was left behind. Our team quickly notified the guests and reunited them with their furry family member.
Pull Up Bar Station
Because the grind doesn’t stop on vacay. This item was literally left in the front yard of one of our homes. We don’t know the full story, but we’re oh-so curious as to how they could forget such a large item behind and hope they’re enjoying swoll season wherever they are now.
Phone Charger
One of the most commonly left behind items: the phone charger. Honestly, if your group doesn’t leave at least one of these behind we’ll be shocked. From iPhones to Androids and even flip phones, our area managers rescue enough chargers to power a small city.
MacBook Pro
Personally, we wish they’d left the new AirPods instead. One guest left their MacBook Pro in a desk drawer at one of our homes and didn’t even realize they had left it behind. We ended up overnighting it to them when we found it so that they could clock in for work the next day.
“Back Massager“
It definitely massages…something. This item (amongst others of its kind) was found in a shoebox under the bed. We should also mention there was a bonus pregnancy test included in the box.
Wedding Ring
Trouble in paradise, huh? Jewelry is one of the most commonly left behind items. Whether you’re taking it off to wash your hands or taking it off before bed, be sure to grab your ring to avoid any awkward conversations with your partner when you get home.
Family Portrait
Who leaves a family portrait behind? Especially a family this familiar. We’re not really sure why someone would travel with a framed copy of this, but the back is signed by “Jim.” So if you’re looking for a nice family photo to add to your office, as we all are, take a bet on this one.
Let this be a cautionary tale to always double-check that you’ve grabbed your belongings before you check out of one of our vacation homes! We’ll always reach out if we find your things, but we have a feeling you want to avoid being the main character in a story like the Tesla’s.
If you’re looking for a beautiful and historic region to explore in New York, look no further than Hudson Valley. This region, which encompasses the area along the Hudson River from New York City to Albany, is known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and diverse cultural offerings. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Hudson Valley. Here are the top 17 things to do in this incredible region, plus a bonus tip on where to stay for the ultimate experience.
Enjoy the Scenic Beauty
Hudson Valley is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy it. One of the best ways is to visit Mohonk Preserve, which offers over 8,000 acres of scenic beauty and hiking trails. Take a stroll or a challenging hike, and soak in the stunning views. For a different kind of scenery, head to the Shawangunk Wine Trail, where you can take a scenic drive through rolling hills and vineyards.
Source: Condé Nast Traveler
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
For a truly unique and unforgettable experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the Hudson Valley. Get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape as you float over the rolling hills and scenic vistas. This is an experience you’ll never forget.
Visit Historical and Cultural Attractions
Hudson Valley is home to a wealth of historic sites and cultural attractions. For example, you can visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum to learn about one of the most influential presidents in American history.
Source: National Park Service
Explore Art and Culture
Hudson Valley is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Check out Dia:Beacon, a contemporary art museum that showcases some of the most cutting-edge art in the world. Attend a concert at the Bardavon 1869 Opera House, which has been entertaining audiences since the 19th century. For a truly unique outdoor experience, explore the Storm King Art Center, an outdoor sculpture park that features over 100 sculptures by some of the most celebrated artists in the world.
Food and Drink
Hudson Valley is home to a thriving food and drink scene, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and craft beverages. One of the must-visit destinations is the Culinary Institute of America, where you can enjoy a gourmet meal in a stunning setting. For beer lovers, check out the Hudson Valley Brewery, which offers a wide range of locally sourced craft beer. And for a unique experience, visit the historic Woodstock Farm Sanctuary, where you can meet rescued farm animals and learn about sustainable agriculture.
Source: Chronogram
Outdoor Activities
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love Hudson Valley. Take a kayak tour of the Hudson River to experience the stunning scenery up close. Go horseback riding through the Catskill Mountains for a unique perspective on the landscape. And visit the Dutchess County Fairgrounds for a variety of outdoor events throughout the year, including the Dutchess County Fair.
Visit the Storm King Art Center
The Storm King Art Center is an open-air museum located in the Hudson Valley that showcases large-scale sculptures and installations from some of the most prominent artists in the world. The 500-acre landscape is also perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic.
Source: Courtney in the Middle Seat
Take a Food Tour
The Hudson Valley is renowned for its farm-to-table cuisine and a food tour is a perfect way to sample the region’s culinary delights. Take a walking tour of Poughkeepsie, explore the Hudson Valley Food Hall, or enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at a local restaurant.
Tour the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site
Located in Hyde Park, the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site is a must-see attraction for history buffs. The mansion, which was once home to the Vanderbilt family, features lavish interiors, manicured gardens, and stunning views of the Hudson River.
Source: I Love NY
Go Wine Tasting
The Hudson Valley is home to a growing number of wineries and vineyards, many of which offer tours and tastings. Take a scenic drive through the valley and sample some of the region’s best wines.
Visit the Walkway Over the Hudson
The Walkway Over the Hudson is a pedestrian bridge that spans the Hudson River, connecting Poughkeepsie to Highland. The bridge offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for walkers, runners, and cyclists.
Source: Times Union
Explore Historic Rhinebeck
Rhinebeck is a charming town in the Hudson Valley that is home to historic architecture, unique shops, and delicious restaurants. Visit the Beekman Arms & Delamater Inn, America’s oldest continuously operating hotel, and explore the town’s many galleries and boutiques.
Go Kayaking or Canoeing
Explore the Hudson River by kayak or canoe and take in the stunning scenery from the water. There are many outfitters in the region that offer rentals and guided tours.
Source: Hudson Valley Magazine
Visit the Olana State Historic Site
Olana is a historic estate located in Hudson, NY, that was once the home of the artist Frederic Edwin Church. The estate features stunning views of the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains, as well as a Persian-inspired house and a landscaped park.
Take a Hike
The Hudson Valley is home to many beautiful hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Some popular options include the Mohonk Preserve, Bear Mountain State Park, and the Catskill Mountains.
Source: Wikipedia
Attend a Festival or Event
The Hudson Valley is home to many festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and art to food and culture. Some popular events include the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest, the Dutchess County Fair, and the Clearwater Festival.
Booking Vacation Rentals in Hudson Valley
For those traveling in groups, vacation rentals are the best way to go. They offer plenty of room for everyone to spread out, private pools and hot tubs, and outdoor space to enjoy the beautiful Hudson Valley weather. If you’re looking for your best options, AvantStay has stellar vacation rentals in Hudson Valley, with properties that range from cozy cottages to spacious estates like Shakespeare on the Hudson.
In conclusion, the Hudson Valley is a beautiful region that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, outdoor activities, or just relaxing in the countryside, you’re sure to find plenty to do in this stunning part of New York State.
Can’t believe it’s almost May? Same here. With flowers blooming and spring in full force, we’ve decided to round up the hottest (and coolest) destinations for you and your crew to check out. Whether you’re celebrating a family member’s graduation, an engagement, or just simply need a vacay ASAP, we’ve got you covered with this roundup.
Telluride
Told you once, told you twice, take a trip to Telluride. This gem of Colorado has all you need for a proper decompression session and more with its laid-back vibe and scenery that’ll make you feel like you’re living in a postcard. With over 2,000 acres of ski terrain, you can shred the slopes ‘til your heart’s content. When you’re done, kick back with a craft beer and soak in the hot tub – à la mountain style.
Nestled in the heart of wine country, Paso Robles is the perfect spot for a little R&R (that’s “rest and rosé,” if you’re wondering). With over 200 wineries to choose from, you can sip your way through the region like a true sommelier. When you’re not busy eating and drinking your weight in wine and cheese, try a hot air balloon ride, soak in some hot springs, or just kick back by the pool.
Picture this: you’re surrounded by stunning rock formations, the sun is setting in the distance, and you’re vibing out to some sick tunes. Sounds perfect, right? Well, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Joshua Tree is a playground for adventure-seekers. You can go rock climbing, hiking, or just get lost in the desert for a bit (please bring a compass and a map, and please don’t actually get lost). And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some desert wildlife. Plus, the stargazing here is out of this world (literally). So grab your fave pair of sunnies, your camera, and your sense of adventure, and get ready to live your best desert life in Joshua Tree.
Boujee, in the best way possible. Head to Sonoma to be surrounded by rolling vineyards, lush gardens, and some of the most incredible farm-to-table restaurants you’ve ever experienced. You can sip on award-winning vinos all day long while soaking up the NorCal sun. When you’re not busy sipping, explore the charming downtown area, hike through the redwoods, or just enjoy a day in the sun by the pool with your besties.
Catch you on the flip side! The Oregon Coastcomes complete with cliffs, lush forests, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Here you can go hiking, whale watching, or just vibe out on the beach with your book of the moment. When the sun starts to set, cozy up by the fire with a cup of cocoa and watch the waves crash. Grab your Birkenstocks, your flannel shirt, and your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the ultimate coastal getaway.
Extra, in the best way possible. Take a trip to Los Angeles where you can stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame, hit up some trendy rooftop bars, and snap some IG-worthy pics in front of those iconic palm trees. From In-N-Out to fancy sushi joints, your taste buds will be in for a ride. And when you need a break from all the hustle and bustle, hit up the beach or take a hike in the nearby mountains.
Packing list: hiking boots, a GoPro, and a sense of adventure. This place is so underrated, it’s practically a hidden gem. Come to Central Oregon where you can go hiking through the stunning Cascade Mountains, kayaking on the crystal clear lakes, stargazing at an observatory, or just vibe out in the charming small towns.
Come to Lake Arrowhead to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Go paddleboarding on the pristine lake, hike through the surrounding forests, or just chillax by the fireplace in one of the cozy cabins. Don’t forget about the food – from mom-and-pop diners to fancy gastropubs, your taste buds will be in for a treat. Watch the sunset over the mountains and feel like you’re in your own fairytale.
Ready to show off your new swimsuits? Take a trip to Hilton Head where you can bask in the sun on the peaceful beaches, sip on a refreshing drink with your toes in the sand, and feel the ocean breeze caress your skin. When the night falls here, the party heats up – you can dance the night away at one of the many beachside bars or hit up a swanky lounge for a nightcap.
Hit the slopes on world-class ski runs, cozy up by the fire in a luxurious cabin, and feel the adrenaline rush as you speed down the snow-packed hills. Sip on a hot toddy by the fireplace or hit up a lively après-ski sesh and get ready to conquer the mountains in Big Bear.
The inspo doesn’t stop here. Apart from its seamless group travel experience and a plentiful selection of luxury in-app upgrades, AvantStay homes are in primo locations – even more than what we just covered in this article. Click here to see all of our destinations and we’ll see you soon!
California is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, and what better way to experience them than by staying in one of the best lakeside cabins the state has to offer? Whether you’re looking for a group getaway with friends or a fun-filled family vacation, AvantStay’s California lakeside vacation homes provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Among the top destinations for lakefront cabins are Lake Tahoe, Big Bear, and Lake Arrowhead, where visitors can soak up the stunning scenery, indulge in various outdoor activities, and unwind in the peacefulness of nature.
In this article, we will take you through the 12 best lakeside cabins in California, showcasing each cabin’s unique features and amenities to help you plan your next unforgettable vacation.
1. Lake View Lodge — Big Bear, California
Experience a sensational cabin stay at Lake View Lodge, a pristine property located in the prestigious Castle Glen Estates of Big Bear Lake. This 2-story home offers 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, and a wrap-around deck with stunning 180-degree views of the lake, mountains, and ski slopes. Unwind in the 6-person hot tub on the oversized deck and admire the sunset as it reflects across the lake. The home provides an expansive view of the entire 7-mile lake from the deck, living room, and primary bedroom. The first floor has a 3-car garage, great room, fireplace, dining area, and one bedroom, while the second floor offers 3 more bedrooms and a large living room perfect for kids to enjoy.
2. Lakeview — Lake Tahoe, California
Welcome to Lakeview! Take in breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Tahoe at this exceptional lakefront home. Enjoy the rustic yet modern interior with high-ceilings and large windows (perfect for stargazing from your couch), along with entertainment options like pool, shuffleboard, and foosball. Outside, take in stunning sunrises and sunsets from the hot tub out on the wrap-around patio. Nearby activities include kayaking, paddle boarding, horseback riding, dining at Jax At The Tracks, beer tasting at Fiftyfifty Brewing Company, and skiing at Northstar Resort.
3. Lakefront Lodge — Big Bear, California
Lakefront Lodge is a luxurious cabin in Big Bear with direct access to Big Bear Lake and beautiful mountain views. It’s just a quick walk to Holloway’s Marina and a few minutes drive to skiing, shopping, and entertainment. The upper entry-level features a dining area, cozy living room, and pool table with incredible lake and mountain views, along with a large deck and hot tub. The spacious gourmet kitchen is fully equipped for cooking, and there’s a dining table, BBQ, and hot tub on the first-floor deck.
4. Cedar Pointe — Lake Arrowhead, California
Step out to Lake Arrowhead from your own backyard at Cedar Pointe by AvantStay. This cabin-style waterfront vacation rental includes a stone fireplace, foosball table, dart board, board games, and plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. Guests can enjoy sunset views from Adirondack chairs or dine alfresco by utilizing the outdoor grill. The Lake Arrowhead Brewery and Village are within walking distance for additional entertainment and dining options.
5. Lagunita Shores — Big Bear, California
BYOB (Bring your own boat)! The backyard at Lagunita Shores boasts a wind-protected deck with unobstructed lake views and a dock for boats and watercraft. It also features a large hot tub, gas fire pit, BBQ area, and lounge chairs for relaxation. Inside, the two-story family room and adjacent dining room have easy access to outside decks. The first floor has a media room, separate bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, and a small office nook perfect for remote workers. Upstairs, the primary bedroom has access to a second-floor deck and a triple-sized master bath, plus four additional bedrooms.
6. Water’s Edge Estate — Big Bear, California
Water’s Edge Estate is a luxurious 6-bedroom cabin located near Big Bear Lake, with direct access to the water and a new custom dock that can accommodate up to two boats and three jet skis. Guests can enjoy various activities such as relaxing on the water, in the spacious backyard, or in the extra-large hot tub. The upper level features three bedrooms with beautiful views of the trees and lake, while the lower level includes a living room, kitchen, and movie room. The spacious outdoor deck offers dining and a natural gas BBQ, and the fully-equipped gourmet kitchen includes high-end appliances, cookware, and breakfast bar seating.
7. Tahoe Edge — Lake Tahoe, California
Tahoe Edge is a modern retreat located just steps away from the northern beaches of Lake Tahoe. It features a large patio with a grill, a fire pit, and a dining table, allowing for al fresco meals and beautiful views of the lake. The common area has huge windows offering plenty of natural light and a great water view. The house has three comfortable bedrooms, a fireplace, and is located near convenient grocery stores. Tahoe Edge is the perfect place to enjoy an incredible waterfront view and an unforgettable experience.
8. Shoreline Lakehouse — Big Bear, California
Enjoy a tranquil stay at Shoreline Lakehouse—this well-equipped 4-bedroom lakefront cabin with direct access to Big Bear Lake. Spend your days fishing, playing beach volleyball, or soaking in the hot tub, and your evenings curled up by the fireplace or toasting s’mores by the fire pit. With five bedrooms, including a private master suite and a bunk bedroom, this cabin can accommodate up to 9 people and is perfect for large families and groups. The living room boasts a river rock fireplace and stunning lake views, while the downstairs game room offers a bar and a poker table. Ideal for year-round mountain getaways.
9. Waterfront Breeze — Big Bear, California
Waterfront Breeze is a lakefront property located at Boulder Bay in Big Bear, offering a relaxing getaway and various outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing. The property features a cozy living room with a wood-burning fireplace, a well-equipped kitchen, and three bedrooms with TVs, including a primary bedroom with an ensuite bathroom. Outdoor amenities include a private dock, gas fire pit, gas BBQ, and SmartTV on the back deck. Garage parking for an SUV and two driveway parking spots are available.
10. Atkinson — Lake Tahoe, California
Check in to Atkinson and experience the breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and surrounding mountains. This large vacation home is perfect for groups and welcomes up to 10 guests. Spend your days on the water and evenings grilling on the balcony while watching an epic sunset. Add some friendly competition with a game of shuffleboard and jam out to music from the record player.
Classic Lake House — Big Bear, California
Classic Lake House is one of the original lakefront homes on Big Bear Lake. Located on a double-wide lot that offers a cozy and comfortable retreat for families, the home has four bedrooms, including a bunk room for 4-6 kids. The property is perfect for fishing, skiing, and exploring. The expansive backyard features a new hot tub, swing set, horseshoe pit, and deep water dock for water toys, making it an ideal place for relaxation and fun.
12. Lakefront Estate — Big Bear, California
Life is better lakefront! The Lakefront Estate has 3 bedrooms downstairs and a large loft/game room upstairs which can be used as a 4th bedroom, accommodating 14 guests with 3 bathrooms. There are 2 big redwood decks (front and back), Wi-Fi, and more than half an acre of beautifully maintained landscaping. The great room has a wood-burning fireplace and a 2-story wall of windows that bring in lots of sunlight. It is one of the few homes in Big Bear Lake with a secure gated backyard, making it ideal for families with young children.
How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field?
As a Product Manager, I prioritize and launch product features that help AvantStay drive revenue and reduce costs. I currently work on our internal Property Management System, and my user base is our internal Customer Experience team. I work with CX leadership to define the biggest problems the team faces. After prioritizing which issues to solve, I work with Design and Engineering to come up with feasible technological solutions that solve our user’s needs.
How do you like to start your work day?
I usually start my work day with a cup of black coffee as I check Slack messages. My days are usually pretty meeting heavy, and I work with teams across many different time zones, so it’s important for me to catch up on conversations before the day gets too hectic.
What teams do you collaborate the most with at work?
What is your favorite thing about working at AvantStay?
Definitely my amazing colleagues on the Product & Engineering team! Everyone is so collaborative and smart, and we all come from different backgrounds, which means I’m always learning something new.
What advice would you give to someone looking to join your team?
Despite our scale, AvantStay is still a startup. Things move quickly here – don’t be surprised if your team or your priorities change every couple of months. While the fast-paced environment can be intense, it means there are many opportunities for leadership and initiative on all rungs of the ladder. Don’t be afraid to speak up and take ownership if you notice a process or product feature that needs a leader!
What is something that you’re proud of that you’ve accomplished in your role?
I am most proud of launching our internal reservation management tools this past December. It was the biggest and highest-stakes product launch I’ve led. The new tools have enabled us to unlock greater customization and efficiency for our CX teams. The month leading up to the launch was pretty stressful, but now I can look back on the project with pride and satisfaction!
Which AvantStay home is your favorite?
Palione Papalani in Kailua, Oahu is on my AvantStay bucket list. The pool and tropical backyard look like a mini resort and the home is within walking distance from one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Hawaii – Lanikai Beach.
What is your favorite AvantStay memory?
My favorite AvantStay memory is our Product Team offsite in Temecula. It was so fun to spend quality time with my team, and the wineries in Temecula were so beautiful. And of course, we were staying at a beautiful AvantStay home!
What’s your favorite Slack channel?
My favorite Slack channel has got to be #dev-fun, where my product and engineering coworkers post random memes and videos. The jokes can be pretty nerdy, but that’s what makes them fun.
What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you?
I am fluent in Portuguese! I fell in love with Brazilian music in high school, which inspired me to learn Portuguese in college and then live in Rio for 3 months during a summer internship. Many years later, I met my now-husband in Los Angeles – and he is from Rio of all places! Many of the engineers at AvantStay live in Brazil, so knowing Portuguese and Brazilian culture makes work extra fun.
Where is your favorite vacation spot and why?
I’m a sucker for Brazil. Most recently, I visited Angra Dos Reis, about 2 hours south of Rio de Janeiro. If AvantStay ever goes international, this is the place to go!
A great vacation rental management company will create a stress-free experience for you while maximizing your vacation rental income. However, you could find yourself in a situation where you aren’t happy with your current management company.
Is your vacation rental not receiving proper care to stay in good condition? Is there no proactive communication from your management team? Or maybe you just aren’t making as much as you think you could. Any of these situations are a sign that it’s time to change your property management company. If you’re at the end of your vacation rental management agreement or your current property manager is dropping the ball, it might be time for a change! These tips will help you find a better vacation rental management company that meets your needs and financial goals.
When is it time to hire a new vacation rental property manager
It may seem daunting to change property management companies, but the reward for doing so outweighs any pressure and stress you’re currently facing. The right team will be able to take care of everything to keep your home in pristine condition, consistently booked, and handle all operational tasks that come with managing a short-term rental property. Still unsure if you should switch vacation rental management companies? Here are some signs that it’s time to start your research:
Your vacation rental isn’t consistently booked
Owner statements aren’t clear or you get random invoices
You’re doing your own marketing
You’re communicating directly with guests and vendors
You’re responsible for filing taxes and obtaining permits
Your vacation rental management agreement is almost up
Low/slow season is ahead of you
What to do when switching vacation rental managers
There are many things to consider when choosing a new vacation rental manager. Here are the top things to know before making the switch.
1. Understand the stability of the company
In today’s economy, it’s important to understand the stability of a vacation rental management company. Companies that are not financially set up for success may delay owner payments to pay themselves first, not be able to maintain the number and quality of their local teams, and in the worst-case scenario may end up shutting down entirely—in the middle of high season! Do your research to learn how a company is capitalized, and how they perform in a volatile and uncertain environment.
2. Make sure you’re comparing apples to apples
If your end goal is to make more revenue, make sure you aren’t just looking at the management fee. While a low management fee is enticing, you should think about any extra costs that your new property manager will or won’t cover, how they’ll be pricing your home, and how much revenue they’re able to generate for you. A low management fee could end up costing you more!
3. Meet your local point of contact
Even if it’s just over a video call, make sure you meet the person or team who will be taking care of your home. They should be an expert in all aspects of your market and local vendors. Be sure to ask about other vacation rentals they manage in your area and how they fare against competition, how they optimize for seasonal trends, and how they comply with local regulations.
4. Check that they have good reviews
Check out reviews on Google, Better Business Bureau, Yelp, and Trustpilot to get a sense of a company’s brand reputation and how they respond to any negative feedback. Every company has some bad reviews, so make sure they’re at least doing better than the competition. You can even go straight to the source and ask management companies for referrals from current homeowners.
5. Confirm they know how to transfer your reviews
You’ve put a lot of hard work into creating a great guest experience and cultivating positive reviews. Make sure your new vacation rental manager knows how to transfer over your reviews on Vrbo, otherwise, you’re losing all that traction and recognition from guests.
6. Understand how they manage your existing reservations
A great vacation rental management company will be able to honor your existing reservations so you’re not losing any income during the transition. Once you sign with AvantStay, we ensure that all of your reservations are blacked out on your calendar, transfer over all Vrbo reviews, and take new, professional photos so your listing is fully optimized and ready to drive new bookings.
Other questions to ask:
How large is your rental portfolio? Will I receive local support?
How will you get my home ready for guests?
Will you handle permitting, inspections, occupancy taxes, and insurance?
What are the vacation rental management fees and contract terms?
What services are included in my contract?
How will you advertise my home?
How do I know my home will be in good hands?
Can you guarantee I’ll make more money on my vacation home than I did last year?
What does the transition timeline entail?
How long will my home be off-market?
How much involvement will I have in the transition from my current property manager?
How to break up with your property manager
Once you’ve found the right vacation rental manager for your needs, it’s time to part ways with your current property manager. But don’t worry, breaking up with your property management company isn’t as awkward as it seems. Start by revisiting your vacation rental management agreement. There could be clauses in your contract that allow you to terminate your agreement if your vacation rental manager isn’t delivering on services as stated.
Even if you can’t find a right to terminate your contract, you should still reach out to your vacation rental manager and exercise your right to termination. Keep it simple and be prepared. Make a list of all the things they said they would do but aren’t (with specific examples), along with other reasons the partnership is no longer working. Also, make sure to put your termination notice in writing even if you end your partnership over the phone or in person.
Make the switch to AvantStay
When you partner with a full-service management company like AvantStay, you’ll never have to worry about any of the above. We’ll work with you every step of the way during your termination timeline and transition to AvantStay while going above and beyond to limit the time your listing is offline.
Once you’re brought on to the AvantStay platform, you’ll receive unmatched personalized service through a local Area Manager. They’ll know the ins and outs of your home, vendors, and market and will be able to quickly assist with any inquiries.
We pair all of that personal support with a proprietary tech suite that powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management, and activates an elevated guest experience. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and relax—it’s that simple.
Ready to create a five-star guest experience and increase the return on your vacation rental investment? A great starting point is by adding experiential elements and sought-after amenities to your home. Vacation rental amenities help create an exceptional guest experience, drive more positive reviews, and ultimately increase your rental income. This article is the first of a series breaking down popular amenities and the advantages they create, by market type. Keep reading to discover our top amenity picks for desert vacation rentals.
The importance of vacation rental amenities
In competitive markets, like Joshua Tree and Coachella Valley, the vacation rentals that are going to get more bookings and drive strong returns are the one-of-a-kind and exciting homes that stand out from the rest. If you have unique amenities, like a yoga deck or bocce ball court, showcase these in some of the first photos on your listing page to grab guests’ attention. Before we reveal what the top desert vacation rental amenities are, let’s cover the benefits of investing in interior design and luxury amenities.
Attract more guests
58% of millennials make their booking decision based on the first five photos of the home. Professionally designed properties with new furnishings, stylish decor, and top-of-the-line amenities attract guests who appreciate and respect the elements that make your home unique.
Earn higher ratings
Homes with thoughtfully designed interiors and amenities are directly linked to higher ratings and referrals from guests. An appealing and comfortable home where guests can gather and entertain has a proven positive effect on the guest experience.
Increase your revenue
Helping homeowners choose and install the right amenities is just one part of how AvantStay maximizes your property’s value and increases your profit by up to 20-30%. You’ll notice a surge in bookings as guests prefer to stay at properties with professionally designed interiors and experiential amenities for the whole group to enjoy.
Best vacation rental amenities for desert homes
Vacation rental amenities can make the difference between a four and five-star review. But which amenities are guests looking for? We dove into our data to discover what amenities drive the greatest returns in our desert vacation rentals.
Pools & spas
Allow guests to soak up the sun or comfortably stargaze on chilly desert nights with a pool and hot tub. Adding a pool and hot tub to your property is the #1 investment you can make. While cowboy tubs are great for Instagram pics, new build pool and spa assets drive greater returns for our Joshua Tree homeowners. Below are our findings for Joshua Tree homes over a 12-month period:
New build pool and spa assets generate 30% higher RevPAU (revenue per available unit) compared to standard pool and spa assets and cowboy tubs
Homes with both a pool and spa see 112% higher ADRs and 179% higher RevPAU than homes with neither
Homes with both a pool and spa see 12% higher ADRs and 17% higher RevPAU than homes with just a pool
Outdoor sport courts
Guests will love to engage in some friendly competition with an outdoor sport court. Bocce ball, horseshoes, shuffleboard, cornhole, and pickleball courts are great options for desert vacation rentals. According to our research, Joshua Tree vacation rentals with an outdoor sport court drive 14% higher ADRs and 15% greater RevPAU than homes without.
Fire pits, yoga decks, and outdoor sculptures
Commit to the zen but funky vibe of Joshua Tree with outdoor elements like a fire pit, yoga deck, and “Instagrammable” sculptures. These amenities are typically a low-lift to install and offer a minor impact on ADRs. However, according to market research, homes with some of these experiential elements (in addition to a pool and spa), see higher RevPAU than homes with more bedrooms and only a pool and spa.
Indoor game room
Joshua Tree homes in our portfolio with an indoor game room only see 12% higher RevPAU than homes without. Guests visiting desert markets are usually looking to spend time outside. If you’re thinking about adding a game room to your short-term rental, consider investing in a pool and hot tub, or one of the other outdoor amenities listed above instead.
Level up your vacation rental with AvantStay
Only AvantStay homeowners have access to our award-winning Interior Design team that elevates homes in under nine days, instantly increasing your home’s equity and maximizing your ROI. We believe the best accommodations are designed to enhance every aspect of a guest’s travels, which is why we transform beautiful homes into incredible experiences that foster unforgettable memories.
We help procure high-quality, durable furniture and upscale amenities, and coordinate delivery and installation on your behalf so you don’t have to lift a finger. Our thoughtfully designed spaces encourage gathering and allow guests to make the most of their time at your home—leaving them recharged and ready to write a five-star review!
Are you looking to upgrade your vacation rental design and amenities? Our interior designers can create a custom, locally inspired space that guests will love. If you’re interested in learning more about AvantStay’s design, procurement, and vacation rental management services, our team of experts is ready to help. Get started today!
It’s Pride time! Let’s get to it with a super special list of all the best places to stay. Whether you’re attending your hometown’s pride parade, or are making a journey to a special city to see one, this round-up has all the stays to guarantee a rowdy and rockin’ Pride 2023, all the way from April to August.
Blue Steel – Sonoma, CA
Sonoma County Pride is held June 3rd at Santa Rosa’s Courthouse Square. With performances from Spencer Day and Paul’s Drag Race star Miss Rock M Sakura, you’ll be sure to sashay the day away before a night of relaxation at your Sonoma vacation rental, Blue Steel.
Serenity – Key West, FL
Key West Pride is held this year from June 7-11th. Enjoy the sunny island and all its daytime activities. Try a trip to the Key West Butterfly Conservatory or maybe even a sunset sail. After you’ve danced your little heart out, head back home to Serenity or any of our other Key West vacation rentals.
Valentino – Los Angeles, CA
LA’s Pride is held this year on June 9th and 10th. This year, be extra as hell with a stay at Valentino in the Hollywood Hills. It’s got a private pool, a courtyard hot tub, and a luxe firepit lounge tucked near a gorgeous fountain, so after you’ve lost your voice to screaming songs a little too loud, you’re sure to find your zen again with a nice decompression session outdoors.
Bourbon – Nashville TN
From June 24-25 you’ve got full rein to head on down to Nashville’s Pride Parade where you’ll find over 225 vendors for local nonprofits, artists, and businesses celebrating freely! And when y’all have had enough of all that downtown hustle and bustle, head back to this cozy stay at Bourbon – a Nashville vacation rarity where you’re close enough for your Ubers to not be a million bucks.
Peak 8 – Breckenridge, CO
Year of the rabbit so you’re in your snow bunny era, huh? One of the best parts about visiting Colorado in June is the fact that you get to witness all of the trees, flowers, and plants in full bloom. When you’re not visiting one of the many local hot springs, take a day trip from your Breckenridge AvantStay, like Peak 8, and come as you are to Denver’s 14-block Pride celebration! The 2023 Coors Light Denver Pride Parade is held June 25th.
Camden – San Diego, CA
With over 250,000 cheering supporters, the San Diego Pride Parade at the Hillcrest Pride Flag is a truly liberating place to express yourself. From July 8-16th, you’ll find the streets of Hillcrest blossoming with beautiful rainbows from head to toe. After a long day of parading, enjoy your stay at Camden – a beautiful bungalow located in Cardiff by the Sea.
Ramsey – Austin, TX
Austin’s Pride Paradewill be held on August 12th. Everything’s bigger in TX, so this fest features live music, dance, and drag performances and is the largest of all ATX’s parades. When you’ve danced your little heart out, head back to Ramsey where you and your besties will have plenty of room to spread out – from the expansive front yard to the pool and al fresco dining.
Cannon Beach Bakery is sure to please pastry connoisseurs, with the largest selection of sweet and savory doughs in the area. They’ve been perfecting their recipes since 1936 when the bakery opened in Cannon Beach. Home of the original Haystack bread—a round, crusty loaf with different flavors—the bakery is also known for its win in the Sweetest Bakery in America contest.
Besides Haystack bread, they offer 50+ goods daily: including almond bear claws, olive ciabatta, chocolate cream cheese muffins, and more. After you pick your pastry, grab a classic drip coffee, espresso, americano, or other classic coffee drink.
Another great Cannon Beach bakery is Sea Level Bakery + Coffee, where you can find different coffees at the pour-over bar weekly. We highly recommend pairing them with daily made-from-scratch pastries like banana bread, kouign-amanns, scones, and bread like baguettes, ciabatta, brioche, and more. We never turn down carbs with our morning coffee.
Since savory items like pumpkin curry soup and ratatouille are available too, Sea Level is a great Cannon Beach cafe to stop by for lunch as well.
Want to stay within walking distance or a quick drive from Sea Level? Stay at the Seven Spruce for a quick commute to silence your growling stomach. During your stay with us, we recommend that you have a beach picnic by stopping by Sea Level for some goodies on your way there. Munching on their jambon and brie sandwich makes for a delicious and delightful afternoon lounging on the sand.
Cozy Ambiance and Community: Insomnia Roasters
Insomnia Roasters focuses on creating inviting spaces in each of their cafes, and their coffee and pastry selections are just as thoughtful. Signature drinks like eggnog lattes and baked goods like cinnamon rolls will brighten your mood in the already window-filled, airy space.
Looking to read a book and escape from the world for a few hours? Our vacation rental Puffin Nest is walking distance from this cafe, from the beach, and from downtown Cannon Beach. It’s the perfect escape while still offering a roomy retreat for you and your group.
King of Coffee: Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters
Sleepy Monk Roaster’s extensive roster of international, organic, and small-batch coffee provides dozens of options for your jolt of java juice. Ranging from French Roast Colombian, Dark Uganda, Gaelic Grounds, Bali Blue Moon, and so much more, you could live here for months and have not tried every roast. Don’t forget to taste their signature whipped cream.
Plus, if you arrive early, you can get your hands on some gluten-free baked goods, and an Adirondack chair on the lawn to people-watch along Hemlock Street.
Oregon Vacations
After a luxurious night of sleep in our gorgeous properties, fuel up by visiting a Cannon Beach bakery and coffee shop before adventure-filled days in Oregon. With many outstanding Oregon coffee roasters and shops, you can eat, sleep, and repeat every day during your stay with AvantStay Vacation Rentals. For more information about other things to do in Cannon Beach and Manzanita, and our accommodations, visit our website!
Short-term rental owners dream of having consistent bookings year-round. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. When demand begins to drop and bookings taper off, this is known as the dreaded low season. However, your occupancy doesn’t have to take a drastic hit during this time of year. With some strategic vacation rental marketing, you can easily avoid the low-season slump. Our nine tips will teach you how to get more bookings in low season and boost your rental income.
1. Know your market’s low season
The first step to improving your occupancy is to know your market’s seasonal trends. Identify your low, peak, and shoulder seasons. Low season (also known as slow or off-season) is the time of year when tourists head home and demand slows down. Peak or high season is when demand is high and guests are eager to book your vacation rental. Then there’s shoulder season, or the time between low and peak season when travelers are typically looking to enjoy fewer crowds and lower rates. These seasons vary by market, so make sure you understand your location’s seasonal trends to help with pricing (more on that later).
In addition, use local events and seasonal attractions to your advantage. There could be big events like festivals and conferences, or timely attractions like leaf peeping and whale watching that take place during your low season. Mention these in your vacation rental listing, use event hashtags on your social media posts, and send out a calendar of upcoming events to your email subscribers.
2. Know your previous low-season guest
Next, dig into who booked your vacation rental during previous low seasons. Was it mostly couples looking for a quiet weekend getaway? Or groups of friends in town for a food and wine festival? Use these demographics and interests to target similar audiences in your social media ads.
Also, reach out to previous guests to offer special low-season promos and friends and family discounts. This is a cheaper way to acquire new guests while staying top of mind to your previous customers who already know and love your home.
3. Strategically adjust your rates
Pricing your vacation rental for market and seasonal trends is one of the trickiest parts of running a short-term rental business. Typically, with lower demand comes lower rates. However, you don’t want to lower your rates so much that you lose money. Research similar homes in your area so you can accurately and competitively charge for bedroom count, amenities, views, proximity to local attractions, and other key features. Dynamic pricing tools, like AirDNA, can help with this. Or if you’d rather leave it to the experts, consider partnering with a vacation rental management company that can optimize for both revenue and occupancy.
4. Update and optimize your listing
Keep your vacation rental listing updated to reflect current seasons and events. This is your first touchpoint with potential guests, so entice them to book a stay with a relevant and fresh listing page. Here are some ways you can make updates for low season:
If your target guests are travelers coming to leaf peep, add pictures of your home surrounded by fall foliage
Update your title and description to promote upcoming events and include your home’s proximity to events, festivals, and attractions
Highlight your amenities, especially the ones that guests will love during low season
Showcase your home’s features that are perfect for holidays, like a modern kitchen and large dining area for Thanksgiving, or holiday lights and decorations during December
5. Test niche listing sites
Low season is a great time to test out new vacation rental marketing strategies. Leverage niche vacation rental listing sites to diversify your channel mix, increase your exposure, and drive higher nightly rates (these travelers are often willing to pay more for personalized service).Niche vacation rental booking sites offer accommodations to travelers with certain needs or interests. These could be vacation rentals for families with children or pets, luxury homes, or locations with a desired climate. Some popular niche listing sites include:
A great way to improve your overall occupancy is to target business travelers and remote workers. Luckily, these folks travel all year and aren’t tied to a specific season. Equip your home with full-coverage fast WiFi and dedicated, comfortable workspaces. Be sure to highlight these in your listing so your home will be featured in any filtered searches.
Another way to boost your weekday occupancy (during any season) is to accommodate work groups. At AvantStay, we help companies host their retreats and offsites at our homes, and even plan custom team-building itineraries. This means more consistent bookings, positive reviews, and income for our homeowners.
7. Offer popular amenities and experiential features
One of the easiest ways to make your vacation rental stand out is by providing top-of-the-line amenities. Amenities help create an exceptional guest experience, drive more positive reviews and repeat visitors, and ultimately increase your rental income. Invest in experiential features that can be used all year. Hot tubs, fire pits, and game rooms are fan favorites that can be enjoyed in any season.
8. Start a blog
Travelers appreciate recommendations and tips from a local. Showcase that local expertise with a vacation rental blog on your website. A blog is an easy way to increase your visibility on search engines through the use of relevant keywords. Think of topics like “Best Things To Do in Destin in Low Season,” “Hidden Low Season Gems of Charleston,” and “Top 11 Things To Do in Telluride Year-Round.”
Pair your market knowledge with your keyword research to write helpful content for potential guests. You can also repurpose your blog content to share on social media or in emails to past guests.
9. Work with an expert vacation rental manager
Overall, running a successful vacation rental business, regardless of season, requires a lot of dedication. If you’d rather not worry about seasonal trends and getting the right guests in at the right price and time, partner with a vacation rental manager.
Unlike traditional management companies that use simple on and off-season pricing, AvantStay uses a sophisticated dynamic pricing model that segments each year into between 75-150 pricing “seasons.” These seasons capture and optimize revenue based on occupancy, day of the week, travel patterns, holidays, market events, and more. Our team of dedicated pricing and revenue management specialists reviews each asset in our portfolio every week to ensure each home is priced to book, no matter the season.
Looking for a vacation rental with a private indoor swimming pool? Look no further!
This year, skip the crowded public pools and high-priced hotel passes and opt for a secluded approach to swimming on vacation. We’ve rounded up 15 stunning vacation homes with private indoor pools that promise fun, relaxation, and plenty of room for the whole crew. From the Smoky Mountains to Big Bear Lake, these homes will ensure that your vacation is nothing short of unforgettable. Let’s dive in!
1. Wilder – Sevierville, TN
The best part about staying at a home with an indoor pool? You can take a dip in any weather. Meet Wilder, the ten-bed mountain mansion located in the Smoky Mountain town of Sevierville. Nature lovers rejoice – this backyard features a large wooden pavilion with a chic lounge area and a sprawling table with room for 20.
Why not both? Book two neighboring homes, Bluestem & Bluebell, for plenty to do in the Smokies. Hang out with your crew in the spacious living area or soak up the stunning treetop views on the vast balcony. From swimming in the indoor pool, playing games in the game room, or watching a flick in the movie room, these stays have everything you need for an unforgettable vacation so grab your swimsuit and meet us there!
3. Red Oak – Sevierville, TN
A pool party without a pool is just a meeting. With two living areas, a pool table, a hot tub, modern interiors, and an indoor pool, Red Oakoffers much more than just a cabin in the woods. Reconnect with nature in the Smokies and unwind on one of the home’s two balconies. Grab 11 of your besties and head here for an unforgettable weekend vacation.
4. High Meadow – Park City, UT
Pack your bags and get ready for the ultimate Park Citymountain getaway! This home’s main room boasts a breathtaking floor-to-ceiling fireplace and panoramic mountain views, setting the tone for the rest of the awe-inspiring house. With an indoor pool, hot tub, game room, and fully equipped BYOB bar, there’s always something fun to do here at High Meadow.
Float on cloud nine, or float in the indoor pool. With three balconies overlooking the forest, you’ll be living the chill life in no time at Crystalline in the Smoky Mountains. Find your zen via the indoor pool, hot tub, or movie theater. Later on, get the party started at the billiards table with a fresh vinyl on the record player.
6. Sugarland – Sevierville, TN
Discover the perfect blend of rustic charm and luxurious amenities at Sugarland in the Smoky Mountains. With plenty of indoor and outdoor space, you’ll have all the room you need to relax and take in the mountain air. From its home theater and game room to an indoor pool and BBQ grill, there’s endless fun for the whole crew. Get your grill on the covered deck and enjoy the al fresco meal you’ve been in search of.
Surrounded by stunning aspens and mountain views, you’ll never want to leave Daybreak in the Smokies. This massive cabin has an indoor pool, pavilion, and eight bedrooms so you can bring the whole crew. Chill on one of the multiple balconies or whip up something delish in the spacious kitchen before you cozy up next to the fire. Decompress in the rec room with billiards, foosball, and classic movies.
8. Ridge View – Sevierville, TN
Perched at the edge of a ridge in Sevierville, you’ll find the lovely cabin that is Ridge View. This stay comes with a pool table, indoor pool, hot tub, two large decks, a spacious wooden pavilion in the backyard, ambient lighting, and so much more. Just a short 15-minute drive away is the family-friendly mountain town ofPigeon Forge, with activities like mini-golf and arcades.
9. Duval – Sevierville, TN
Dive into Duval(‘s indoor pool). Budding chefs can show off their skills in the dreamy kitchen, while the upstairs balcony offers an amazing view of the treetops, perfect for your morning caffeine fix. Whether you’re exploring downtown Pigeon Forge or relaxing in the hot tub, this Smoky Mountain stay will leave a lasting impression on you.
10. Copperhead – Sevierville, TN
Come on down to Copperhead in Sevierville, TN. This rustic retreat amongst the treetops is stacked with goodies like a hot tub, indoor pool, jacuzzi, home theatre, and game room – you name it, it’s got it. Soak up those epic panoramic views all day long and when it’s time to chow down, head to one of the two balconies and get your grill on by the sunset.
Another Smoky Mountainscabin with epic amenities? Yes, please! Come to Elm to turn your phone on “Do Not Disturb” and turn on vacay mode. With this stay’s private movie theater, indoor pool, three balconies, billiards table, and hot tub, you’ll never run out of things to do.
12. Honeypot – Big Bear Lake, CA
Escape to Honeypot in Big Bearfor the ultimate year-round group getaway. This luxurious retreat features four bedrooms, a spacious common area, and a stunning indoor pool and a hot tub. The large living area with an oversized sectional and fireplace is perfect for game or movie nights, while the upstairs game room offers entertainment à la pool table and game systems.
With endless views and top-of-the-line amenities, Haywood is a Smoky Mountains home that’s got it all. Choose to unwind with a night spent hopping between the home’s private movie theater, indoor pool, and three large balconies with a hot tub and plenty of rocking chairs. Or choose to get your heart rate up with some friendly competition around the billiards table, taste testing in the large kitchen, and dancing around the family room to hand-picked vinyl records.
14. Sunriver – Sunriver, Central OR
Unwind at Sunriver, a secluded stay nestled at the foot of the Cascade Mountains at the renowned Sunriver Resort. Take in breathtaking forest views through the floor-to-ceiling windows of this home’s impressive indoor lap pool. And to sweeten the deal, might we add that this home offers dreamy unobstructed views of Mt Bachelor – guaranteeing a relaxation retreat like no other.
15. Sycamore – Sevierville, TN
Say hello to Sycamore. Lounge poolside, relax on the balconies, admire the home’s local artwork, or take a soak in the hot tub. At night, cozy up with your squad around the fire pit. With a pool table and home theater, too, you really can’t go wrong with this Smoky Mountain stay.
When you plan a vacation to Maui, you unlock all the wonder of a Hawaiian getaway. Maui is the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands and is full of diverse landscapes and adventurous activities in or out of the Pacific Ocean.
Maui has something for everyone, including some of the best beaches in the world and stunning waterfalls. You can also step into must-do exciting activities like whale watching, kayaking, and ziplining. You will always find something to do in Maui, the perfect destination for families and individuals alike. Use this expert travel guide for all of the fun things to do in Maui, Hawaii.
Relax on a Hawaiian Beach
Maui has 120 miles of coast including 30 miles of beautiful beaches. There are white-sand beaches and black-sand beaches to choose from. Spend your day relaxing in the sunshine or hop in the water for some swimming or surfing lessons. If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can try paddle boarding—you might even spot some ocean wildlife!
Makena Beach State Park is among the most popular in South Maui with its beautiful white sand and big beach with space to spread out. Kaanapali Beach is one of the best beaches in West Maui and Baldwin Beach Park is a great destination for surfers and those in North Maui with excellent swimming and body surfing conditions.
Take a Helicopter Tour
Taking a helicopter tour is one of the best things to do in Hawaii. The best way to see Maui’s beautiful landscape is by flying high above East Maui’s Haleakala Crater, Hana Rainforest, and the West Maui Mountains with the doors off. We recommend taking a helicopter tour before 11 a.m. as there will be much less cloud coverage than later in the day.
Source: Maui Helicopter Tours
Whale Watching
Speaking of water activities, whale watching is an ever-popular activity in Hawaii. Every year, thousands of humpback whales make their journey to Hawaii in the winter months through the Pacific Ocean. The humpback whales will travel from Alaska around November to December and travel back in the spring.
You can see the whales from the beaches around Maui or you can take a whale-watching tour with a local expert who can show you exactly what you’re looking for.
WaterfallHiking Trails
Maui, Hawaii is beautifully picturesque and it’s hard to capture it more than on the hiking trails that run through the island. There are all kinds of trails to explore but seeing waterfalls is a must-do on your next visit.
Some of our favorite hiking trails in Maui include Seven Sacred Pools Trail, Nakalele Blowhole Trail, Kapalua Coastal Trail, and Pipiwai Trail & Waimoku Falls (moderate). Pipiwai Trail & Waimoku Falls takes about 2 hours to complete and runs through the bamboo forest so you’re in for a treat with some magnificent photo-worthy views. Visit the ’Iao valley state park for the trifecta, a short hike, a nice swim, and gorgeous scenery.
Source: The Old Wailuku Inn
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
There is no better way to see the diverse Hawaiian marine life than through the goggle lens while scuba diving or snorkeling the crystal waters around Maui. You’ll be able to see the beautiful fish species as well as sea turtles as they swim around the reefs just off the coast of Maui.
There are great local services that offer first-time scuba diving and snorkeling lessons to get you started on the right foot. Maui Diving Scuba Center is a great option if you’re a beginner in scuba diving. They provide rentals and lessons to get you started plus great scuba diving and snorkeling tours to show you the best spots. Snorkel and cliff dive at the black rock area located near the north end of Ka’anapali Beach.
Source: Shore Excursions Group
Ziplining
High above the Hawaiian canopy of palm trees and bamboo forests, ziplining allows you to get a unique perspective on Hawaii with an added thrill. Ziplining is one of the most fun things you can do while you’re here. Strap in and zip across the islands and above the banyan trees to see and enjoy Hawaii like you’ve never seen before.
Skyline Hawaii offers a wide range of tours but we recommend the Haleakala Sunrise Tour through Haleakala National Park to see the most stunning sunrise of your life. Add it to your bucket list and go ziplining the next time you’re in Hawaii!
Source: Skyline Hawai’i
Take the Road To Hana Tour
Experience amazing views of the coastline of Maui on this scenic drive. The Road to Hana aka highway 360 is a scenic highway that twists and turns through waterfalls and the rainforest. Make the many stops along the Hana Highway as you tour the road to Hana. You’ll be able to make stops with your tour guide to explore hiking trails and waterfalls, and experience some of the most spectacular Hawaiian views. You’ll also find convenient stops for Hawaiian coffee, banana bread, and shave ice along the journey to Paia Town.
Source: The Snorkel Store
Maui Golf Courses
Finally, if you’re wanting to enjoy your favorite sport with a unique and beautiful backdrop, golfing in Hawaii promises to deliver. The golf courses in Hawaii offer challenging terrain for any skill level but also give you ocean views throughout your play.
Whether you want to play at a Maui Resort or visit some courses off the beaten path, there are plenty of options. Kapalua Golf Club offers two different courses with incredible views. Wailea Golf Club also offers you the choice of two different courses that are well-maintained and offer unique challenges so why not play both?
Source: Kapalua Golf
Enjoy The Old Lahaina Luau
Immerse yourself into the center of Hawaiian Culture of The Old Lahaina Luau while you experience a night of storytelling, feasting, and entertainment by hula dancers. Upon arrival, you’ll receive a beautiful orchid lei, and a flower necklace, to celebrate the evening festivities. Be sure to come to this Maui luau hungry as there will be many authentic Hawaiian dishes to try!
Stay in your Dream Maui Vacation Home
Stay in a Maui vacation rental home with your family or group of friends gathered together to create an unforgettable Hawaiian experience. Situated in Lahaina, Hawaii, Kailani at Kapalua Ridge Villas Resort provides a beautiful coastal condo with a free shuttle included. Located in Kihei, Hawaii, Nohea in the Maui Kamaole Resort offers a luxury condo retreat with a relaxing lanai ready for you to soak in the sea breeze while dining al fresco.
Book Your Maui, Hawaii Vacation Rental Today!
As you’re trying to decide where to spend your next vacation, why not head on the road to Maui? Say aloha to lasting memories and some incredibly fun things to do while you’re here. Our vacation rentals offer you incredible ocean views or somewhere to sit back and restore. Start planning your trip and book your Maui vacation rental today!
The Emerald Coast, located on the Florida Panhandle, is one of the most beautiful destinations in the country. With its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant sunshine, it’s no wonder that so many people flock to the area every year. In fact, did you know that the name “Emerald Coast” comes from the emerald green color of the waters in the Gulf of Mexico?
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore nature, or enjoy some family fun, the Emerald Coast has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to the top things to do in the area, along with some helpful tips for where to stay while you’re visiting—we consider ourselves experts in that area.
Beaches and Water Activities
Let’s start with what the Emerald Coast is best known for: its stunning beaches and endless water activities. Whether you want to relax on the sand, swim in the Gulf of Mexico, or try your hand at some water sports, there’s something for everyone. Here are the top three beaches you should visit:
Source: Destin Real Estate
1. Destin Beach
Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin Beach is a must-visit destination for beach lovers. With its sugar-white sand and emerald-green waters, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try your hand at some water sports, like parasailing or jet skiing!
2. Okaloosa Island
Just a few miles west of Destin Beach, Okaloosa Island is another hot spot for beachgoers. With its soft sand and clear waters, it’s the perfect place to take a dip or go snorkeling. If you’re looking for a break from the sun, you can also explore the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, a popular family-friendly attraction (more on that later in this article).
3. Grayton Beach State Park
If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience, Grayton Beach State Park is the perfect destination. With its rolling sand dunes and emerald waters, it’s a beautiful spot for a quiet picnic or a romantic walk on the beach.
When it comes to water activities, the options are endless. Additionally, the Emerald Coast is a popular destination for sea turtle nesting. In fact, the area has the highest concentration of nesting sea turtles in the continental United States, so you might get lucky and catch a sighting!
Some other popular water activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. No matter what you choose, you’re sure to have a great time on the water.
Parks and Nature Preserves
If you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of the Emerald Coast, there are plenty of parks and nature preserves to choose from. Here are the top three you should visit:
Source: Florida Smart
4. Henderson Beach State Park
Located in Destin, Henderson Beach State Park is a beautiful spot for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. With its natural sand dunes and lush vegetation, it’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the beach.
5. Point Washington State Forest
Just a short drive from the beach, Point Washington State Forest is a hidden gem for nature lovers. With its miles of hiking and biking trails, it’s the perfect place to explore the local flora and fauna.
6. Gulf Islands National Seashore
Stretching from Pensacola to the Mississippi border, Gulf Islands National Seashore is a vast expanse of natural beauty. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife, it’s the perfect place to experience the best of the Emerald Coast.
Family-Friendly Attractions
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions to choose from on the Emerald Coast. Here are the top three you should visit:
Source: Realty Masters of FL
7. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Located on Okaloosa Island, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is a popular destination for families. With its dolphin shows, sea lion performances, and interactive exhibits, it’s a great way to learn about marine life.
8. Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park
If you’re looking for some thrills and spills, Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park is the place to be. With its water slides, lazy river, and go-kart tracks, it’s a fun way to spend a day with the family.
9. The Track
Located in Destin, The Track is another popular destination for families. With its go-karts, mini-golf, and bumper boats, it’s a great way to spend an afternoon or evening together and get some quality bonding time!
Shopping and Dining
If you’re looking to do some shopping or dining on the Emerald Coast, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are the top three places you should visit:
Source: Emerald Coast
10. The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Located in Sandestin, the Village of Baytowne Wharf is a charming destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. With its boutiques, restaurants, and live music, it’s a great place to spend an evening with friends or family.
11. Destin Commons
If you’re looking for a more traditional shopping experience, Destin Commons is the place to be. With its big-name retailers, restaurants, and movie theater, it’s a great place to spend a day with the family.
12. HarborWalk Village
Located in Destin, HarborWalk Village is a popular destination for dining, shopping, and nightlife. With its waterfront restaurants, live music, and outdoor events, it’s a great place to experience the local culture.
Vacation Rentals
When it comes to lodging on the Emerald Coast, vacation rentals are the way to go. They offer more space, privacy, and amenities than traditional hotels, and are often located right on the beach.
AvantStay is proud to be one of the best vacation rental companies in the area, which offers a wide range of luxurious rentals all along the coast. From spacious homes with private pools and hot tubs to cozy condos with stunning views, AvantStay has something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore nature, or enjoy some family fun, the Emerald Coast has something for everyone. With its beautiful beaches, natural parks, family-friendly attractions, and great shopping and dining, it’s no wonder that so many people flock to the area every year. And with vacation rentals from AvantStay, you can enjoy all the Emerald Coast has to offer in style and comfort.
Source: AvantStay
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to the Emerald Coast today!
The Berkshires is a popular region of western Massachusetts known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions. From hiking and skiing in the snow-capped mountains to visiting world-class museums and attending live performances, there is something for everyone in the Berkshires. If you’re planning a trip to this picturesque region, we’ve got you covered with the top 20 things to do during your visit.
1. Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum
The Norman Rockwell Museum is a must-see for art lovers. The museum features over 600 of Rockwell’s iconic paintings and illustrations, including some of his most famous works like “Freedom from Want” and “Freedom from Fear.” The museum also has a number of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see even if you’re a returning guest.
Source: Visit MA
2. Explore the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (Mass MoCA)
Mass MoCA is one of our favorite contemporary art museums nationwide! The museum features a wide variety of exhibitions and installations, including works by some of the most talented artists of our time. The museum also hosts a number of music and performance events throughout the year, so be sure to check their calendar before you visit.
Source: New York Times
3. Take a hike on Monument Mountain
If you’re looking for a scenic hike with great views, Monument Mountain is the perfect destination. The mountain is home to several hiking trails, including the popular Monument Trail, which takes you to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding area. The hike is moderate in difficulty and takes about 2 hours, so pack snacks and plenty of water!
4. Visit the Berkshire Botanical Garden
The Berkshire Botanical Garden is a beautiful 15-acre garden that features a wide variety of plants and flowers. The garden is open year-round and is particularly beautiful in the spring and summer when the flowers are in bloom and Instagram-ready. There are also several walking trails on the property, so you can explore the gardens at your own pace (we like to stop and smell the roses, literally).
Source: Connecting Point
5. Enjoy a performance at Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra
Tanglewood is one of the most famous music venues in the country and the summer home of the beloved Boston Symphony Orchestra. The venue hosts a wide variety of musical performances throughout the summer, including classical music, jazz, and popular music. If you’re a music lover, be sure to check out their calendar before you visit.
6. Visit the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is a must-see for families with children. Eric Carle is a widely popular children’s author with beloved books like The Very Hungry Caterpillar. The museum features a wide variety of picture books, as well as interactive exhibits that are designed to inspire creativity in children. The museum is open year-round and is a perfect family-friendly destination for a rainy day.
7. Take a scenic drive on the Mohawk Trail
The Mohawk Trail is a beautiful scenic drive that takes you through the heart of the Berkshires. The road is lined with stunning views of the mountains and valleys, and there are several lookout points along the way where you can stop and take in the scenery (and take plenty of photos for your social feeds). The drive takes about 2 hours without stops, so pack road trip snacks for the journey!
Source: New York Times
8. Visit the Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum
The Ventfort Hall Mansion is a beautiful Gilded Age mansion that is open for tours. The mansion is a great example of the opulent homes that were built by the wealthy during the late 19th century. The mansion is also home to the Gilded Age Museum, which features a number of artifacts and exhibits about the history of the period, perfect for the history buff in your life.
9. Explore the natural beauty of Bash Bish Falls
Bash Bish Falls is the highest waterfall in the state of Massachusetts and one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the Berkshires. The falls are located in a state park, and there are several hiking trails to get there, ranging from moderate to difficult. Bonus – the trails are pet-friendly (dogs must be on leash) so you can bring your furry friends along!
Source: Inspired Lifestyle
10. Visit the Berkshire Athenaeum
The Berkshire Athenaeum is another great place to learn about the history of the area, as a public library based off of what was previously a private athenaeum. The library has an expansive collection of historical documents and artifacts, including photographs, maps, and newspapers. They also have a unique collection of local authors and works of literature.
Source: Library Postcards
11. Take a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs at the Cranwell Spa & Golf Resort
The Cranwell Spa & Golf Resort is a great place to relax and unwind. The spa features a variety of services, including massages, body treatments, and facials—a perfect way to get some peace on vacay. They also have a natural hot spring pool that is open year-round, so you can soak and relax in the warm water.
12. Attend a performance at the Williamstown Theatre Festival
The Williamstown Theatre Festival is a summer theater festival that features a variety of plays, musicals, and other performances. The festival is held at several venues in the area and is a great way to experience live theater in a beautiful setting.
13. Visit the Berkshire Hills Eisenberg Camp
The Berkshire Hills Eisenberg Camp is a Jewish summer camp that is open to the public. The camp offers a variety of activities, including swimming, hiking, and arts and crafts. They also have a number of special events throughout the year, so be sure to check their calendar before you visit.
14. Take a guided tour of the historic homes in Stockbridge
Stockbridge is a charming town that is home to a number of historic homes. Many of these homes are open for tours, and they offer a glimpse into the lives of wealthy families who lived in the area during the 19th century.
15. Visit the Lenox Library Association
The Lenox Library Association is an interesting place to learn about the history of the area as well. The library has a wide collection of historical documents and artifacts, including photographs, maps, and newspapers. They also have a unique collection of local authors and works of literature.
Source: Wikipedia
16. Take a trip to the Hancock Shaker Village
The Hancock Shaker Village is a living history museum that is dedicated to preserving the history of the Shakers. The village features a number of historic buildings, including a church, a school, and a barn. In addition to the museum, there’s also a working farm on-site that uses traditional Shaker farming practices. They offer tours, internships, volunteer opportunities, and seeds in the retail shop for you to take home and grow yourself! Keep in mind that the museum is closed during winter months, so make sure to check its website and calendar for open hours.
Source: Trip Advisor
17. Visit Bartholomew’s Cobble nature reserve
Bartholomew’s Cobble is a nature reserve that is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. The reserve is a great place to go hiking, bird-watching, or just enjoy the scenery.
18. Enjoy a round of golf at one of the area’s many golf courses
The Berkshires are home to a number of golf courses, including the Cranwell Resort, Spa & Golf Club, and the Taconic Golf Club. These courses offer challenging and beautiful golf experiences and are great for golfers of all skill levels.
19. Check out local vacation rentals
The Berkshires are a popular vacation destination, and there are many vacation rentals available throughout the area. From cozy cabins to large family homes, you can find a rental that suits your needs and budget for your crew. Be sure to check out AvantStay’s vacation rental listings before you plan your trip, to find the perfect place to stay for your group.
In conclusion, the Berkshires is a beautiful area that offers a wide variety of activities and attractions. Whether you’re interested in art, music, history, or the outdoors, there is something for everyone in your group!
At the base of the Gore Range in the Colorado Rockies and 100 miles from Denver, lies the Vail Valley, a quaint European village full of alpine-style charm. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and soak in the views of the snow-capped peaks as the world’s weight melts away. While best known as one of the top ski areas in the world, there are also endless things to do in the summer. Year-round there is no shortage of world-class outdoor adventures. Here’s a rundown of all the fun things to do on your next trip to the town of Vail, no matter what season you choose to visit.
Tour Vail Village & Lionshead Village
Vail is a mountain town like no other. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped out of Colorado and into a European village. Many of the streets within Vail Village and Lionshead Village are pedestrian-only, so you can stroll down the cobblestone streets and along Gore Creek (or use the free in-town shuttle system) to explore Vail’s shops, restaurants, sports outfitters, and entertainment options. Glide on the ice skating rinks in Vail Square (Lionshead) and Solaris (Vail Village). The two villages blend seamlessly with the ski resort as the Eagle Bahn Gondola (Lionshead Village) and Gondola One (Vail Village) quickly whisk you up Vail Mountain to start your mountain adventure.
Source: Town and Country Magazine
Experience Vail Mountain Resort
Home to one of the most famous ski resorts in North America, Vail, Colorado, has something for skiers and snowboarders of every ability level. One gets a special feeling viewing the endless mountain peaks from the top ofVail Mountain Resort and the seven legendary back bowls. In the warmer months, summer activities like exploring the network of hiking trails and mountain biking trails are great ways to enjoy the wildflower-covered alpine landscape. Epic Discovery delivers a thrill with the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster, kids’ zipline, and Gore Creek mini golf. If you’re not in a playful mood, take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Vail Mountain for dining and 360-degree views of the White River National Forest that will take your breath away.
Dive into Vail’s Culinary Scene
It makes sense that Colorado’s largest ski resort also has a wide array of restaurant selections. From coffee to cocktails, breakfast to après-ski, there’s always an option to excite your taste buds. With so many experiences to choose from, from world-renowned gourmet restaurants likeSweet Basil in Vail Village to more casual family spots likeMoe’s BBQ in Lionshead, the Vail restaurant scene has a dining option for any culinary preference and budget.
Visit Vail Breweries & Distilleries
Looking to grab a craft beer or cocktail after a long day of skiing or hiking?Vail Brewing Company, located in Solaris Plaza of Vail Village, is “veteran and ski bum owned” and delivers fantastic craft beers.10th Mountain Whiskey and Spiritson Bridge Street in Vail Village is Vail’s premier distillery and is the perfect place to try bourbon, rye, moonshine, potato vodka, or the local Alpenglow cordial.
Source: Vail Daily
Visit the Colorado Snowsports Museum & Hall of Fame
Celebrate Colorado ski heritage and get a feel for the slopes without strapping on the skis at theColorado Snowsports Museum & Hall of Fame, chronicling Colorado’s skiing history. From the 10th Mountain Division’s WWII history to the more recent Hall of Fame inductees, this collection tells a fascinating story of the birth, rise, and explosion of skiing and snowboarding in Colorado.
Relax at the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Within Vail Village is the Ford Park complex, named for President Gerald Ford, who loved to vacation in Vail with his wife, Betty, lies theBetty Ford Alpine Gardens. Located just outside of Vail Village, it is one of the highest botanical gardens in the country. Take a break from the hustle and bustle and appreciate the beauty of the high-elevation plants surrounding you and the amazing view of the Gore Range in the distance.
Source: Condé Nast Traveler
Take in a Performance at Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
TheGerald R. Ford Amphitheater in Vail is a spectacular outdoor music venue along Gore Creek that seats 1,260 guests in covered seating and an additional 1,300 on its expansive grassy hillside with a breathtaking view of the Rocky Mountains. Each summer, the amphitheater hosts a wide array of talent, from dance and classical to a weekly concert series with headlining acts.
Stay in a Luxury Vacation Home
Book a luxurious vacation rental in Vail. If skiing is your main agenda,Cloud 9 is perfectly located less than 5 minutes from Vail Ski Resort. If mountain seclusion is more your style, Bighorn is tucked away in the trees, and Condor is a cabin-style home in an idyllic, natural setting. Or, unwind in style at Highline, a breathtaking mountain home surrounded by snow-capped hills and aromatic pine trees.
Experience the Best of Vail
Ready to experience the fresh mountain air, natural beauty, and European charm that awaits in Colorado? Find your next vacation home in Vail today!
Key West is a tropical paradise perfect for those craving a long escape from the harsh winter weather (we’re looking at you, snowbirds!). With its sunny beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife, there are plenty of things to do in Key West for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re desiring a relaxing day by the beach, an adventure out on the water, or a night on the town, Key West is an idyllic destination for a vacation.
For those looking to get away for a month or more, we’ve rounded up our favorite vacation homes available for an extended stay. These AvantStay vacation rentals have everything you could need in your home away from home, including a fully-equipped kitchen, hotel-grade amenities, a washer and dryer, bedding and linens, WiFi, and access to our 24/7 guest experience line as well as a local hospitality manager.
Here are our top picks for vacation homes for snowbirds in Key West:
1. Ecco Domani
Ecco Domani is a beautiful three-story home with a private pool, off-street parking, and attractive decor in Key West. The home features a gourmet kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances and French doors that lead to a private outdoor space with a pool. Ecco Domani is centrally located, just off Simonton Street and one block from Duval Street, within walking distance to Key West’s best bars, restaurants, galleries, and shopping. South Beach is six blocks away with the Southernmost Beach Café offering excellent food and libations all day long.
2. Serenity
This beautifully renovated conch home located in Bahama Village is a perfect romantic getaway for couples. Serenity a two-story guest house with one bedroom, one bathroom, and a bonus loft space. The high ceilings and magnificent glass doors allow for the bright Key West sun to shine throughout the cottage. The backyard offers a secluded tropical garden with a pool, lounge chairs, and an open outdoor shower, creating a calming and serene oasis. The cottage is just 3 blocks away from Duval Street, close to the action but protected from the hustle and bustle, making it the idyllic romantic retreat.
3. Spa Oasis
Spa Oasis is just a few miles from Smathers Beach and downtown Duval Street, making it the ideal destination to enjoy the best that Key West has to offer. It has three bedrooms (a king, queen, and twin beds), two bathrooms, and can accommodate up to six guests. The home has an open-plan kitchen and dining area, a hot tub, a large back patio with a BBQ grill, and access to a beautiful lagoon-style pool and 24-hour gym.
4. Paradise Point
Calling all golfers! Paradise Point is a charming retreat located at the Key West Golf Club. It boasts a private covered patio with stunning green views, a cozy living room, and two comfortable bedrooms with balcony access. The home is located on Stock Island, a tropical haven near plenty of dining options and shopping.
5. Coral Garden
Coral Garden is a two-bedroom townhome located in the gated community of Coral Hammock on Stock Island. Both bedrooms feature private balconies overlooking the lushly landscaped grounds. The community offers a large heated pool and is conveniently located near popular local restaurants, Smathers Beach, the golf course, and a 10-minute drive to Old Town Key West. Check in and say hello to paradise.
6. Tumi’s Time Out
Tumi’s Time Out is a delightful 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhome in the desirable Windward Park community. Located in a secluded tropical hideaway, surrounded by lush palm trees and balmy breezes, the property boasts a sparkling swimming pool, open floor plan with a living room, dining area, full kitchen, and a private outdoor patio. Tumi’s Time Out is located in the heart of Old Town, just 2 blocks from Duval Street, where guests can walk to the famous music, dining, and activities Key West is known for.
7. Spanish Lime Tree Cottage
Spanish Lime Tree Cottage is located on Key West’s historic Whitehead Street, which runs parallel to Duval Street and is in the heart of Old Town. The street is home to some of the most famous sites in Key West, including the Southernmost point, the Key West Lighthouse, and Hemingway House. The cottage is a one-bedroom, one-bathroom with a backyard patio area, BBQ grill, and front porch that’s great for people-watching.
8. Coral Villa
Coral Villa is a beautiful, spacious 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom townhome located across the street from the Key West Golf Course. The property offers off-street parking for 2 vehicles and is minutes from popular restaurants, marinas, Smathers Beach, and the airport. A shared community pool and clubhouse are just a few steps away. Coral Villa is perfect for families or couples looking for a month-long stay in paradise.
9. Flagler’s Oasis
Flagler’s Oasis is a two-bedroom, pet-friendly vacation home that offers complete privacy with a lagoon-style pool. The home is equipped with three flat-screen televisions, a large 10 by 12-foot steel-roof gazebo for outdoor dining and entertaining, and a fenced outdoor space and pool. The property also has a huge 60-foot driveway for ample parking for cars or even your boat and trailer.
10. Lighthouse Villa
You won’t find a location better than this! Lighthouse Villa is a timeless, private Conch home located among the iconic historical sites of Key West. Step outside on your balcony and admire the views of the famous Key West Lighthouse right across the street. This three-level property features 3 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, a tropical-inspired design, and is within walking distance of the most popular attractions.
These are just a few of our Key West favorites. Check out the full list of AvantStay Key West vacation homes here.
How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field?
I work with our wedding reservations in the Coachella and Temecula markets! I am responsible for being the main point of contact for each bride and groom throughout their planning process and ensuring they have a great experience and our team is set up for success!
How do you like to start your work day?
A good iced coffee and playing ball with my new puppy!
What teams do you collaborate the most with at work?
I work the most with our Field Operations team.
What is your favorite thing about working at AvantStay?
I love that my position is both remote and out in the field with guests. I’m very much a people person, so I enjoy getting to know our guests.
What advice would you give to someone looking to join your team?
This job is rewarding, but you have to have patience and drive to want to succeed.
What is something that you’re proud of that you’ve accomplished in your role?
In my one year with the company, I have learned and educated myself so much. Our guests compliment me for that, so I feel my time and efforts are now paying off. I have been working hard on creating relationships with local vendors and showing them what AvantStay is all about by attending local mixers and events in my off time. People are excited about what we have to offer!
Which AvantStay destination is on your bucket list?
I would love to check out a property in Destin, FL!
If you’re seeking things to do on Sullivan’s Island, explore this guide for inspiration as you plan your next getaway.
Sullivan’s Island is a 2.5-mile long island located near the entrance of the Charleston Harbor and near Isle of Palms and just minutes from Charleston, South Carolina.
This barrier island is a favorite destination for East Coast beach lovers. You’ll find that this small town is filled with a plethora of historic sites, civil war history, sightseeing attractions, and outdoor activities to enjoy.
Check out our list of the best things to do in Sullivan’s Island to add to your itinerary for the perfect getaway.
Soak Up Sunshine Along the South Carolina Coast
Explore the beaches of The Barrier Islands just past the city limits of Charleston, South Carolina for a relaxing getaway filled with all these great beaches have to offer. You’ll find some of the most famous beaches like Sullivan’s Island, Folly, and Isle of Palms. You can’t go wrong with one of these beautiful beaches for your getaway.
Sullivan’s Island Beach
Wake up early and take a morning beach stroll to experience the spectacular sunrise on Sullivan’s Island beach. This beach is only about 20 minutes from downtown Charleston offering smooth white sand, calm waters perfect for plenty of fun activities and watersports including kayaking, charter fishing, kiteboarding, paddleboarding and more.
Arrive early before the beach begins to get busy in the summer months as there’s limited parking available. Or, book a Sullivan’s Island vacation home to enjoy the beach within easy access of your home-away-from-home.
Isle of Palms Beach
Located Northeast of Sullivan’s Island, this charming small beach community offers many water sports like surfing, kayaking, and fishing charters. Isle of Palms beach is perfect for families offering convenient amenities to guests like umbrellas, showers, and lifeguards. Stay just a block away from the beach at the Pelican vacation rental perfect for your next beach getaway.
Folly Beach
Folly Beach is a popular beach spot for locals looking for a daytrip from Charleston. Come early to beat traffic and find a parking spot. Enjoy the day stretched out on the sand, surfing or take a sunrise stroll along the beach. Stay just minutes from the Folly Park at Live Oak or explore more vacation rentals in Sullivan’s Island to create the perfect getaway.
Explore Sullivan’s Island by Bike
Sullivan’s Island has a 32 mile bike path connecting all three beaches to downtown Charleston making it an excellent way to explore. The path connects Isle of Palms with Folly Beach and goes through Sullivan’s Island, Old Mount Pleasant, and over the Ravenel Bridge. You can take an adventure over the Ravenel Bridge to Sullivan’s Island while staying in the biking lane. Summer in South Carolina can be quite hot. The best time to take this 2 hour bike trip will be during the fall, winter, or spring months.
Source: Canva
Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse
Standing at 140 feet, Sulivan’s Island Lighthouse is one of the last lighthouses to be built in the United States. While this black and white lighthouse is closed to the public, it is still fully operational and a great place to take a photo with friends or family on your vacation.
Source: Canva
Sullivan’s Island Restaurants
Gather your friends and family and enjoy a fresh local meal while dining al fresco at one of Sullivan’s Island’s outdoor restaurants. Our favorites are Poe’s Tavern, named after Edgar Allen Poe, Home Team BBQ and The Obstinate Daughter. These restaurants are popular among foodies, so prepare for longer wait times or be sure to call ahead to reserve a table.
Source: Canva
Enjoy the Best of Sullivan’s Island
Ready to experience all of the history, fun, and beauty Sullivan’s Island has to offer? Create your list of fun things to do and see on Sullivan’s Island to prepare for your next getaway.
If you’re looking for other recommendations in the area, be sure to check out our other resources:
Each year, thousands of seasonal travelers make the great migration to warmer climates during the winter months. These south-flocking travelers (typically retirees) are referred to as “snowbirds,” and often hail from Canada. According to the Canadian Snowbird Association, 87% of its 100,000 members are or are planning to travel to the US this year. So, how can short-term rental owners reach more of these folks? We’ll cover how you can prepare your vacation rental for snowbirds, optimize your listing, and ultimately increase your bookings and revenue.
Popular snowbird destinations
If you’re wondering where snowbirds are heading, simply follow the warmer temperatures. Arizona, California, and Florida are popular destinations for seasonal visitors. At AvantStay, San Diego, Scottsdale, and Coachella Valley were some of the most booked destinations for the winter months this year. If you’re looking to purchase your first or next vacation rental home, consider buying in one of these top destinations for snowbirds:
Snowbirds will typically be traveling a long distance to enjoy your vacation rental (and staying for an extended period) so make it feel like their home away from home. Make sure your space is stocked and ready to welcome guests. From quality linens to a fully stocked kitchen and luxury bath products, don’t skimp on the vacation rental essentials. But don’t stress—we created a complete inventory checklist to help you become the host with the most.
Now, here comes the fun part. One of the easiest ways to make your home stand out is by providing top-of-the-line amenities. There are some amenities that snowbirds view as a need rather than a nice-to-have. These can make or break a good review, so invest in the following if you can:
Fast WiFi
Smart locks for contactless check-in
Smart TVs with streaming options
Workout equipment
Pet-friendly stays
Parking
Take it one step further and provide experiential elements and amenities for all kinds of activities. Use your location for inspiration. Is your home on the water? Have kayaks, paddle boards, and other water toys ready for snowbirds to enjoy. Outdoor fire pit? Don’t forget the roasting sticks and supplies for s’mores. If budget and space aren’t an issue, consider installing a putting green or pickleball court to make your rental shine.
Also, supply equipment like beach chairs and umbrellas, towels, pool floats, tennis rackets, and pickleball paddles. These details won’t go unnoticed and can lead to more bookings and higher ratings.
Optimize your vacation rental listing
Reach more snowbirds with a well-optimized listing. This is your first touchpoint with potential guests and entices them to book a stay. Start with your title, description, and keywords. Your title should describe your vacation rental and leave travelers compelled to click your listing.
Next, use your description to paint a picture of the guest experience at your home, including all the details that make your property stand out from the competition (especially the intangible perks like location!). Be sure to list your rental’s proximity to popular snowbird activities and attractions like beaches, golf courses, museums, tennis courts, dining, and more.
Also, don’t just list amenities—describe how guests can make their own memories at your home. Do you have a cozy patio perfect for enjoying morning coffee? Or a private pool and hot tub for relaxing after a day on the golf course? Use these in your listing to encourage snowbirds to hit that “Book Now” button.
When creating your title and description, incorporate search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to further boost your reach. Research search terms (“keywords”) that are popular in your market and add those to your listing. Some examples could be “private beachfront cottage in Destin” or “dog-friendly Palm Springs vacation rental.”
Another key component of your vacation rental listing is the imagery. Capture snowbirds’ attention with eye-catching photos. Hire a professional photographer to take high-resolution photos of your vacation rental that accurately reflect the space, amenities, views, and what guests can expect when they walk into your home.
Tweak your marketing strategy for snowbirds
Promoting your vacation rental on multiple online travel agencies (OTAs) gets your home in front of more snowbirds and means more potential bookings. Airbnb, Vrbo, Expedia, and Booking.com are popular OTAs for vacation rental homes. Also, promote your rental on niche sites specifically for seasonal travelers, like American Snowbird.
Make sure you understand each site’s criteria and functionality for listing your property and create a strategy for managing your listing across each. You’ll have to stay on top of guidelines, optimizing your listing, guest inquiries, reservations, and reviews for each platform to enhance your home’s performance.
Start a vacation rental blog
Show off your local expertise with a vacation rental blog. A blog is an easy way to increase your visibility on search engines. With a thoughtful SEO strategy and the use of relevant keywords, you can drive more traffic to your website and increase bookings.
Snowbirds appreciate recommendations and tips from a local. Pair your expertise with keyword research to write useful content for potential guests. Some examples of blog topics for snowbirds include:
Allocate some of your marketing budget to social media ads. Facebook and Pinterest make it easy to narrow your target audience. You can choose to show your ads to your ideal guest by using filters like location, age, interests, and more. This allows you to get the most out of your advertising budget while optimizing for bookings.
Welcome more snowbirds with AvantStay
Successfully running a vacation rental, especially if you don’t live in the area, is a heavy lift. From keeping your home stocked and clean to strategic marketing and distribution, there are a lot of moving parts. If you want to reach more snowbirds (and travelers all year round), partner with a professional vacation rental manager.
AvantStay offers end-to-end management programs to give you peace of mind. From financials to design to maintenance, we take care of your home as if it were our own. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management, and activates an elevated guest experience. Plus, upgrades and experiences booked through our app can help snowbirds schedule tee times, organize at-home massages, request mid-stay cleans, and more! Say hello to more five-star ratings.
Lake Arrowhead is one of the best vacation spots in the San Bernardino Mountains in Southern California—a stunning mountain range that is often referred to as the “Alps of Southern California.” At only an hour to an hour-and-a-half drive from Los Angeles, it’s an easy road trip to escape the city and get into the mountains.
Lake Arrowhead is home to a variety of outdoor activities. From taking a boat tour on the lake to hiking through the San Bernardino National Forest, a long weekend in Lake Arrowhead is perfect for families or even a romantic weekend getaway.
1. Lake Arrowhead Village
As one of the central attractions at Lake Arrowhead, Lake Arrowhead Village is on the southern shore of the lake. As you stroll the village, you get to take in the breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
Lake Arrowhead Village is a bustling downtown area filled with restaurants, shops, and live music. The village is home to the Arrowhead Center Stage Concert Hall which hosts the famous Lake Arrowhead Village Summer Concert Series.
Whatever season you visit, this town center is host to a variety of fun things to do all year-round! Our vacation rental, Lone Pine, offers quick access to the village and is the perfect place to stay if you don’t want to miss all the action.
Source: Discover Inland Empire
2. Skypark at Santa’s Village
Despite its name, Skypark at Santa’s Villageis a year-round adventure theme park. Just three miles from Lake Arrowhead, this facility has a long history of making many childhood memories. Since 1955 it has opened and closed its doors many times but in 2016 it reopened and is operating better than ever before.
Today, this theme park is home to a variety of outdoor activities like axe throwing, rock climbing, mountain biking, archery, and ziplining. Tickets are general admission and include available activities, rides, and entertainment.
While Skypark at Santa’s Village is open year-round, wintertime is the best time to visit. The village turns into a winter wonderland and features seasonal attractions like Ice skating. The park also glows with thousands of Christmas lights during the winter season.
3. McKenzie’s WaterSki School
McKenzie’s Water Ski Schoolis one of the best ways to hit the water and learn something new! If you ever wanted to learn how to water ski, wakeboard, or kneeboard, your getaway to Lake Arrowhead is the perfect place! Don’t worry if you’re new to these sports—the instructors at the school are highly trained and have the experience needed to teach you how to get up and ski on your own in no time.
4. Rim of the World Scenic Byway
Lake Arrowhead is one of the many stops along the Rim of the World Scenic Byway. This 110-mile route follows the rim of the San Bernardino Mountains starting from Cahon Pass and winding all the way to the San Gorgonio Mountain.
There are a variety of noticeable stops along the highway including Silverwood Lake, Big Bear Lake, and The Mountain History Museum. Big Bear is a popular winter destination as it is home to Big Bear Mountain Resort which offers some of the best skiing in Southern California.
The Mountain History Museum is home to the entire history of the mountainous region. This museum is a great stop along the drive to stretch your legs and enjoy the history of Southern California.
5. Lollipop Park
Lollipop Park is a lakefront amusement park that features a plethora of attractions for all ages. The top attractions here are the carousel, go-kart track, food concessions, spinning teacups, a candy store, and a mini golf course. This is the perfect place to visit for the whole family!
6. The Tudor House
The Tudor House is one of the many historical locations in Lake Arrowhead. Its history dates back to the 1920s, before the Great Depression. It is mostly known for its prohibition-era entertainment and rumored mobster management.
Since the 1950s, The Tudor House has been a legal source of entertainment and a popular performance space. It is host to a variety of live music events throughout the year ranging in every genre.
It is also host to a variety of events such as Sunday Brunch and a monthly Mystery Dinner Theatre. The property is also available to be reserved for private special events including workshops and retreats.
7. Heaps Peak Arboretum
Heaps Peak Arboretumis a beautiful day adventure within the San Bernardino National Forest. The Sequoia Trail circles the arboretum and offers a variety of interpretive information about the surrounding flora and fauna along the trail. With about 30 acres to adventure, this is the perfect adventure for your family to reconnect with nature.
8. Wildhaven Ranch
Wildhaven Ranch is a wildlife sanctuary home to a number of endangered and indigenous species. At this ranch, you can meet various animals, go on guided tours, participate in fun programs, and do a variety of other things. They are committed to preserving the wildlife indigenous to the San Bernardino Mountains. This is not a zoo and does require reservations in order to visit.
9. Lake Gregory Regional Park
Lake Gregory Regional Parkis just a 10-minute drive from Lake Arrowhead. This park offers a variety of entertainment and adventure that is perfect for the whole family. Lake Gregory in Crestline, California is the best place for all kinds of outdoor activities. You can fish, go boating or kayaking, or even hike if you don’t want to hit the water. If you don’t want to bring your boat or water equipment into the mountains, Lake Gregory has lake equipment rentals available.
Looking to stay near Lake Gregory? Our modern, industrial charm vacation rental, The Matterhorn Manor, is just a short drive from Lake Gregory and all its popular attractions.
10. Snow Valley Mountain Resort
Winter season is the best time to visit the Snow Valley Mountain Resort for skiing and snowboarding. They have something for everyone! From long intermediate trails to the best beginner terrain to the sledding area, the whole family will find something to do. Even if you are just starting to learn how to ski or snowboard or want to improve your skills, Snow Valley has an award-winning learning center that offers lessons for all skill levels and ages.
The resort is open during the summer months for mountain biking, hiking, and other special events.
11. Lake Arrowhead Queen Boat Tour
See all the beauty Lake Arrowhead has to offer on the Lake Arrowhead Queen Boat Tour. This charming tour departs daily from Lake Arrowhead Village and is an hour-long tour. As you cruise along the shoreline, take in the beautiful views of the lakefront mansions while you learn about the geologic history of the lake and the native cultures that call the lake home.
You can purchase tickets at Leroy’s Boardshop across from the boat landing dock. Tours happen throughout the day but the best times to go are early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
12. Strawberry Peak
Strawberry Peak is one of the most iconic peaks in the San Gabriel Mountains in Southern California. If you want to spend the day on the hiking trails and enjoy the mountains, driving the 2 hours from Lake Arrowhead makes it the perfect day trip.
The Strawberry Peak stands 6,164 feet high and gets its name from the number of strawberries that grow around the peak. This hike may be difficult for beginners or young children but the views make it worth it once you get to the top.
Looking for the Perfect Lake Arrowhead Cabin?
Book one of our cabin rentals in Lake Arrowhead. Take in stunning lake and mountain views from our 4-bedroomLake Pointhome. Experience modern mountain living at our lakeside rental, Howlite. No matter where you would like to stay on the lake, you will find some of the most relaxing and stunning views.
Start Planning Your Next Lake Arrowhead Getaway
Are you ready to embark on your next Southern California mountain adventure? With so many outdoor activities during the summer and winter, Lake Arrowhead is the perfect year-round destination. It is the perfect weekend escape from large cities like Los Angeles. Get away from all the hustle and bustle and start booking your stay in Lake Arrowhead.
The beautiful beach town of Manzanita offers a variety of fantastic restaurants to satisfy any palate. Enjoy dinner for two at a romantic bistro, pop into a coffee shop for a morning latte and scone on the way to the beach, or relax in the evening with a glass of pinot noir at a local winery.
We all know how tiring it can be to cook a meal every night of the week. If you don’t feel like doing a pile of dishes while you’re visiting the Oregon Coast, you’re in luck!
Whatever you’re craving, these Manzanita restaurants will have you coming back for more! Here are some of AvantStay’s favorites.
A Local’s Guide to the Best Dining in Manzanita
The Pacific Northwest dining culture is truly a foodie’s playground. Throughout our region, you’ll find creative chefs using the excellent local ingredients we have available here, with bountiful farm-to-table options to choose from. Many of the restaurants in Manzanita and other small beach towns along the Oregon Coast support this culture. In fact, did you know that there are practically no chain restaurants in Manzanita?
With such a wide variety of excellent options to choose from, we know it can be difficult to decide where to dig in first. To help you make the most of your visit, we asked some of our local team members for their tips on the best new restaurants in Manzanita. Check out their recommendations below!
Salmonberry Saloon
If you’re looking for dining with a view, head to Salmonberry Saloon. While technically not in Manzanita, it’s worth the 10 minute drive to Wheeler to enjoy the beautiful setting. When you visit Salmonberry Saloon, you’ll find outdoor seating on the deck that overlooks the water and, if you prefer indoor seating, a view from every table! It’s the perfect place to go to watch the activity in the bay like kayaks, paddleboarders, and fishing and crabbing boats going out to sea. Salmonberry Saloon offers a full bar with happy hour and appetizer menu. You’ll also find a lot of seafood options. Best of all, Salmonberry Saloon sources their ingredients locally and buys all produce, fish, and wine from local producers.
Source: Portland Monthly
Yolk
Located in the famed Blackbird location on Laneda Avenue that sadly closed down in recent years, Yolk has ushered in something new to the Manzanita breakfast scene. Perfect for a casual breakfast or lunch, Yolk offers excellent service, a friendly atmosphere, and a laidback setting. When you visit, you’ll have your choice of seating. For a quick trip before heading off to explore, sit at the convenient counter. Or, if you’d like to stay and linger over a cup of coffee, you may also sit down at a table.
When you visit, we recommend the egg scramble with fresh veggies and cheese. It is excellent and comes with a choice of housemade potatoes or salad greens. And, you won’t want to leave without trying a sweet treat. Yolk makes their own breads, muffins, pastries! In addition to their breakfast offerings, Yolk also has a lunch menu and is open until 2 pm.
Bread and Ocean
Bread and Ocean is another great staple of Manzanita dining. Traditionally, it’s best known as a bakery and deli that offers lunch options like salads, sandwiches, baked goods, and desserts. But, now it is offering something new! Bread and Ocean is also open on Friday and Saturday nights for dinner, serving freshly made comfort food. Yum!
In addition, Bread and Ocean recently expanded their seating options, so there’s more room to bring your whole crew. As in the past, Bread and Ocean is still a delicious and fresh deli counter for breakfast and lunch orders. You’ll find to-die-for fresh bread made onsite. Insider tip – fresh gluten-free bread and treats are available, too.
When you visit, know that it can be a long wait to order and it may take a while to get your food. So, come when you aren’t rushed and can enjoy a leisurely experience and a bit of people watching. Perfect for a lazy vacationer’s day!
Left Coast Siesta
In the mood for Mexican? Look no further than Left Coast Siesta. The relaxed atmosphere, large portions, and one-of-a-kind hot sauce bar make this place one of the best Manzanita restaurants. Enjoy a gourmet twist on Mexican comfort food like burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas, and tacos. Or, kick back and munch on chips with salsa and guacamole. Left Coast Siesta is open every day of the week except Monday.
The Mighty Thai
Get your Thai food fix at this authentic spot tucked away in an inconspicuous location on the outskirts of Manzanita. Enjoy traditional Thai offerings including pad Thai, pad basil, three varieties of curry, and even some Vietnamese options like the Mighty Pho. Vegetarians will love the veggie-forward menu including pad spicy eggplant and avocado fried rice.
Neah-Kah-Nie Bistro
Perfect for date night, Neah-Kah-Nie Bistro offers a romantic atmosphere that makes dinner on the Coast even more special. The Bistro menu features everything from appetizers and small plates to rotating dinner specials. If available, order the fresh Cajun-spiced Dover Sole with creamy goat cheese polenta and Oregon Bay shrimp. It’s absolutely delicious!
Insider tip: if you’re planning to visit this popular Manzanita restaurant, we recommend making reservations in advance.
San Dune Pub
Recently named one of the top 10 best bars outside of Portland by Thrillist, this bare-bones pub doesn’t rely on overstated decor or complex cocktails. Order one of their 17 beers on draft and get cozy around the stone fireplaces while listening to some of Oregon’s best live music. Sports fans can enjoy their favorite game on one of the five big-screen TVs, or check out the charming back patio. Offering an eclectic food menu, San Dune Pub is famous for their Tuesday night baby back rib special. You can also try the smoked salmon chowder or the oyster burger for a delicious taste of something different.
The Winery at Manzanita
Spend your evening sipping a locally-made wine in the romantic courtyard of this newly established winery. The Winery at Manzanita offers a fantastic ambiance and it’s a great place to sit outside and sip a glass of wine. At the Winery at Manzanita, guests are encouraged to roast s’mores over outdoor fire pits or enjoy turkey and avocado sandwiches, yam and kale wraps, and grass-fed burgers for dinner. (If the weather is less than ideal, try different wine varietals in the cedar-shingled tasting room.) Stop by in the morning to take in the ocean view from the second-floor patio over an Oregon-roasted cup of coffee and a pastry or breakfast sandwich.
MacGregors Whiskey Bar
Located just three blocks from the beach, MacGregor’s Whiskey Bar offers an exceptional selection of whiskeys from around the world and an incredible food and cocktail menu to match! Highlights include the charcuterie boards, of which they have five, and their delicious desserts. MacGregor’s offers outdoor seating with a fire pit, and they are open a bit later than most restaurants in town. It’s the perfect place to visit for a late-night drink!
Searching for Local Goods to Use in Cooking at Home?
Our area is also rich with options for locally sourced produce, meats, and more. If you’d like to cook a fresh meal at home, or in one of our Oregon Coast vacation rentals during your Manzanita vacation, consider visiting The Little Apple Grocery and Deli or the Summer Farmer’s Market on Friday nights, 5-8 pm. Both places offer great local coastal products, food, and a true taste of the Oregon Coast.
Experience the Best of Oregon Coast Dining and Stay with AvantStay
If you’re searching for a secluded hideaway on the Oregon Coast, our Manzanita vacation rentals have just what you need. You can spend the day indulging, then return to a peaceful home-away-from-home with all the amenities you’re used to. Comfortable bedrooms, spacious living areas, and spectacular views are just some of the things you’ll enjoy during your stay. We look forward to having you!
Say farewell to pitching tents and try pitching an elevated stay to the crew this year for your trip to Coachella Valley, CA.
We’ve come up with the best AvantStay Airbnbs close to Empire Polo Field and its parties – all with unique vacation rental experiences you can’t get anywhere else, guaranteeing a top-of-the-line desert oasis getaway.
AvantStay is a gem in the short-term vacation rental world. We display our signature style via hundreds of homes with award-winning interior design, seamless group travel experiences, experiences and upgrades at the touch of a button, and a unique pay-per-person feature on the app. While all AvantStay properties can be booked through Airbnb, they can also be booked directly through our website.
Apart from its top-of-the-line technology and innovation, AvantStay homes are in primo fest locations – places you’ve been dying to check out, and places you’re ready to book your trip to – like Coachella Valley! Let’s dive in.
1. Blackhaus Hotel
The Blackhaus Hotel is the newest, sleekest addition to our Coachella Valley stays where you’ve got the option to book one room, a two-room suite, or the entire hotel. Spend late nights by the fire pit and early mornings questioning your decisions by the pool. When your pool sesh has you officially revitalized, take the short trip to the fest grounds and get to dancing.
2. Bonita
Consider yourself a front-row gal? Try a stay at Bonita, our Coachella Valley Airbnb that puts you just 3 minutes from the Empire Polo Club. This Spanish-colonial inspired home comes complete with a private putting green, pool, outdoor kitchen, oversized fire pit, and hot tub.
It’s the best party of the year and everyone’s invited. No matter your music taste, there’s a place for you here at Casa del Sol. No, literally, this Coachella Valley Airbnb has room for up to 14 people, so there’s a place for you here. Enjoy the plenty of playful amenities this stay has to offer: a pool, hot tub, BBQ grill, lounge chairs, cornhole, and even a badminton net for those who like to pretend they know how to play.
6. Petit Sahara
Petit Sahara? This stay is anything but petite. Enjoy swims in the pool, friendly competition at the ping pong or foosball table, and fresh juice with a side of morning sunshine while you dine al fresco. We won’t judge if you choose to spend mornings detoxing with your green juice outside, just so you can retox at the fest that afternoon – we will, however, judge you if you sleep on our fridge stocking service.
5. Desert Grove
Meet the after party of the after parties. Desert Grove is a 14-guest stay ready for play with its private pool, outdoor kitchen, BBQ grill, and plenty of seating throughout. Plus, it’s conveniently located next to the fest grounds – so post-BLACKPINK transpo isn’t something you need to stress about.
While these Airbnbsby the fests at Empire Polo Fields are here to impress, we understand that your travel itinerary might be, too. If you’re looking for even more activities for the whole festie crew, check out our freshly curated list of Things to Do in Coachella Valley!
6. Hacienda at Coachella
Your highly curated fest ‘fits deserve a catwalk! Give yourself the show you deserve with a walk alongside this home’s pool with palm trees, fountains, and LED lights. If showing off isn’t your thing, no worries. Kick back and relax with all the lovely amenities you’ll find at Hacienda at Coachella: an expansive fire pit, hot tub, beach volleyball court, outdoor kitchen and bar, private pond, and room for up to 22 guests.
7. Polo Villas
Save the best for last? Don’t mind if we do. This one’s for the people that like to invite all their friends, even those they met in a daze last weekend. Welcome to the Polo Villas – a neighborhood of homes all within walking distance of each other, and all right across the road from the Coachella Valley festival grounds. Enjoy vibrant backyards with pools, modern interiors, and room for literally everyone you know.
Don’t just take it from us, take it from them! Check out real-life testimonials from people who have stayed with us for their fest weekends. Meet you at Coachella Valley.
Join locals and tourists for a family-friendly arts festival called the Sunset Celebration held nightly at Mallory Square Dock. Gather at the water’s edge to experience a multicultural event and watch the sun sink behind the Gulf of Mexico. Be sure to arrive at least two hours before sunset so you have time to enjoy the local arts and crafts, live music, exhibitors, street performers, food carts, and more. Performers include a sword swallower, a juggling and high-wire act, the Southernmost Bagpiper, a fire thrower, and everyone’s favorite, Dominique The Cat Man. You don’t want to miss this event!
FORT ZACHARY TAYLOR STATE PARK
Named the “Best Beach in Key West,” Ft. Zach is one of the most beloved sunset locations. Bring a chair and pick a spot on the grass to enjoy the picturesque sunset as boats pass by. You can even bring a fishing pole and catch dinner off the west rock jetty, since fishing is permitted on the west side of the park along the Key West Shipping Channel (license required). Whether you’ve been on the beach all day or you are just coming by to enjoy the sunset, Ft. Zachary is a relaxing place to end the day and watch the sun fall into the ocean.
SUNSET TIKI BAR AT THE GALLEON RESORT
If hanging at the bar while watching the sunset is more your speed, The Sunset Tiki Bar is the place for you. A local’s favorite, this bar is off the beaten path and fills up fast. Sunset Tiki Bar is open seven days a week and offers live music in the evening for their own sunset celebration and Happy Hour from 5 – 7PM, with 2-for-1 well drinks, domestic beer, and their famous margaritas! Watch the sun go down while you lift your cup up and toast to the best sunset in Key West.
SUNSET PIER AT THE OCEAN KEY RESORT
Want to grab dinner while you wait for the sun to set? Sunset Pier is the best choice for tropical drinks, delicious food, and of course amazing sunsets. Just steps from Mallory Square, this pier has tables with umbrellas in each one to provide a shaded space while you await the sunset. Sitting here, you’ll get to see all the sunset cruises, sailboats, and other ships pass by. Lift your glass and wave to them as they pass! Enjoy live music in this fun and upbeat atmosphere right on the water.
Source: Conde Naste Traveler
LAGERHEADS BEACH BAR
Not quite as crowded as Mallory Square or Sunset Pier, Lagerheads Beach Bar is a more relaxed place to watch the sunset. Hang out on the beach or grab a lounge chair and kick back in the sand. This little beach bar oasis and food shack is known for some of the best tacos and ceviche on the island. Step out onto the dock for a closer look as the sun sets into the ocean. Better yet, take a swim out into the ocean and let the sunset surround you. This is a definite Key West gem.
Source: Last Key Realty
CRUISIN’ TIKIS KEY WEST
As a boat ride into the harbor, this is one of the newest and coolest ways to watch the sunset in Key West. Hop on your own private tiki boat and sail into Key West Harbor for sunset. This tiki boat fits up to 6 people and is BYOB. The Crusin’ Tiki will sail around the Historic Seaport, pass by the crowds at Sunset Pier and Mallory Square, and end with the stunning Key West sunset. A certified US Coast Guard captain will provide you with a cooler full of ice, bottled water and soft drinks, a blender, and even a Bluetooth speaker for you to enjoy your own tunes. This is a one-of-a-kind sunset experience!
Now more than ever, people are skeptical about investing in short-term rentals. With economic uncertainty and #airbnbust trending on Twitter, it’s no surprise that folks are wary of what’s to come in the short-term rental market this year. However, the future of the industry is still looking bright. We teamed up with our partner Revedy to set the record straight. Ready to discover the truth behind these trending misconceptions and why now is the time to finally jump on that vacation rental investment? Let’s dive in.
1. Occupancy is plummeting and #airbnbust is real
THE TRUTH: Short-term rental owners shouldn’t be quick to compare performance to 2021 and 2022 numbers, as a pent-up desire to travel after lockdowns drove record-high demand. Now that things are returning to “normal,” AirDNA is predicting an average occupancy of 56.4% for 2023, which is still significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels. At AvantStay, our forecasted occupancy rates for Q1 are trending at 32% higher than the competition.
Seasonal booking trends vary, but many markets saw extended peak seasons in 2022 with strong occupancy throughout shoulder seasons. Experts predict that this trend will continue in 2023 as people look to save money traveling during slower seasons.
2. Markets are oversaturated—it’s too late for new investors to get started
THE TRUTH: There’s no time like the present, especially when it comes to investing in short-term rentals. According to Revedy, institutional and large portfolio investors own 65% of multi-family assets, 3% of single-family assets for long-term rentals, and less than 1% of assets for short-term rentals. Now is the perfect opportunity for smaller investors to purchase ahead of the large-scale capital wave. Also, no more than 5% of the industry is what Revedy considers an investment-grade asset, so you can easily outperform the competition.
3. I’ll earn less with a premium asset
THE TRUTH: The demand for premium vacation rentals is on the rise as more high-income travelers are interested in exclusive accommodations. Vacation rentals that offer professionally designed spaces with top-tier amenities and experiences can charge higher ADRs than upscale and midscale rentals. Our experts are forecasting that AvantStay’s average ADRs will be 34.5% higher than our market cohorts for the remainder of Q1. Also, if you’re worried about the starting point of investing in short-term rentals, you can still find good cap rates at all different price points.
4. Market regulations make it too risky
THE TRUTH: There are still plenty of low-regulation markets. Plus, investing in a market with established and stable regulations can be a low-risk play. Revedy actively monitors market regulations so you can make informed decisions, while AvantStay’s permitting and tax professionals maintain good relationships with local jurisdictions so your investment is always compliant.
5. I’ll lose money with a management company—I’d rather do it myself
THE TRUTH: According to Revedy, investors that switch to professional management see a 25% increase in top-line revenue on average, while AvantStay delivers 35% more revenue than the broader market. Dynamic revenue management and multi-channel distribution are two of the biggest drivers of these great returns. First-time investors often waste a lot of time and money operating short-term rentals on their own. A management company will take care of everything from strategic pricing and marketing to permitting, interior design, and more.
When you work with Revedy and AvantStay, you get an end-to-end solution for buying and managing vacation rental homes. Revedy makes investing in short-term rentals seamless. Their experts understand every nuance of finding, acquiring, and operating vacation rentals and can help you make the best decision possible. They even have access to upcoming opportunities and off-market deals.
Once you have your vacation rental investment secured, leave the rest to AvantStay. We offer full-service vacation rental management programs to give you peace of mind. From financials to design to maintenance, we take care of your home as if it were our own. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management, and activates an elevated guest experience. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and relax—it’s that simple.
Austin, Texas is known for its bustling nightlife, tasty tacos, and yes, South by Southwest (SXSW for those looking to add another acronym in their life). We’ve come up with the best AvantStay Airbnbs close to South Congress and its parties – all with unique vacation rental experiences you can’t get anywhere else, guaranteeing a top-of-the-line getaway.
AvantStay is a gem in the short-term vacation rental world. We display our signature style via hundreds of homes with award-winning interior design, seamless group travel experiences, and a plentiful selection of in-app upgrades and experiences. While all AvantStay properties can be booked through Airbnb, they can also be booked directly through our website.
Apart from its top-of-the-line technology and innovation, AvantStay homes are in primo SXSW locations – places you’ve been dying to check out, and places you’re ready to book your flight to – like ATX! Let’s dive in.
1. Paramount Place
Whether you’re the paparazzi yourself or they’re tailing behind you, this star-studded stay is sure to impress your entire posse. With five floors, a rooftop hot tub, a decked out game room, and a massive chef’s kitchen, Paramount Place is the place to be during SXSW. Oh, and did we mention there’s a private movie theater? Perfect for showing your film to your besties before everyone sees it at the Paramount Theater (which is right next door BTW).
2. Henley
Lounge chairs, fun floats, guest house, oh my! Say hello to Henley – our newest Austin Airbnb with room for up to 16 of your closest: friends, coworkers, business partners, romantic interests… Or whoever you’re bringing with you to SX… That’s not our business, but it is ours to tell you that these modern interiors will excite even the snobbiest of Arch Digest stans.
3. Vice
Looking for the best Austin hotels to book for your trip to SXSW? Why not take it a step further and get your own condo with its own kitchen, separate living room and dining area, and in-unit laundry. Vice is a one bed, one bath stay is located just steps away from all your conferences. After a day full of learning (and/or partying), head to the building’s rooftop pool and vibe out in the cabana, or get a sweat on in the fitness center (with Peloton bikes). You won’t regret it.
4. Ramsey
“Bigger, bolder, bluer,” – Ramsey’s paint job. Come here if posting up by the pool to make your ex jealous on IG is your thing. Even if it isn’t, how can you say no to this Austin Airbnb stacked with a ping pong table, al fresco dining, sultry interiors, and an expansive front yard perfect for posting up post-conference? Ya just can’t. Meet you there.
5. Dawson
We heard everything’s bigger in Texas and decided to take it literally. Located just 30 minutes from the hustle and bustle of ATX, you’ll find our quaint (JK) home, Dawson. Not only does she have views for days, she’s also got a pool, hot tub, two decks, a ping pong table, al fresco dining, and a BBQ for that one friend that just has to grill on vacation. Send this home to your SXSW group, because you’re so quirky and different that staying in Austin proper is just not an option.
6. Melody
Calling all musicians (and DJs) – make your way down to Melody. Feel feisty by the fire pit. Look good in the only post-modern house on the block. Perk up with a sesh on the Peloton. Be that guy that acts like he knows how to play the drum set (or maybe you really are with the band and drumming’s your thing). Just hurry up and get here because this house near SXSW is gonna go fast.
7. Barton
So you want to get away from it all. Escape to Barton, a Lake Travis Airbnb located just 30 minutes from all the SXSW conferences. Enjoy your private infinity pool, fire pit, and views your whole conference crew will talk about for ages. Consider Irish goodbyes your speciality? This home’s perfect for you. Who’s going to look all the way in Lake Travis for someone they drunkenly talked to at a SX party for 3 minutes? (Not us.)
The party doesn’t stop here, South by Southwest. While these Airbnbs in Austin are here to impress, we understand that your travel itinerary is, too. If you’re looking for more activities for the whole crew, check out our perfectly curated list of 31 Best Things to Do in Austin!
How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field?
An HRBP is a strategic partner to company leadership and a support function to company personale. Daily functions widely vary from employee relations, engagement, development, org planning and retention all the way to developing, coordinating, and implementing policies, processes, and initiatives to ensure compliance and company needs are being met.
How do you like to start your work day?
As I shared above, a day in the life of an HRBP varies drastically. I like to start my day by visualizing tasks at hand, competing priorities, and executing a plan of action. My day starts with a cup of joe in hand, lo-fi music for white noise, as I review inquiries that have come in since the prior business day. Then I jump straight into manifesting my plan of action!
What teams do you collaborate the most with at work?
People & Talent, Business Affairs, HQ and Market Ops
What is your favorite thing about working at AvantStay?
Working amongst an organization of individuals who are hungry, excellent, resilient, and open. Day in and day out I touch nearly every facet of the business. It never ceases to amaze me how brilliant our team is. Every individual strives to go the extra mile. We help others. We collaborate to drive new initiatives. We are open to feedback and new ideas. Most importantly, we do so with a positive attitude! Easily my favorite part of working at AvantStay.
What advice would you give to someone looking to join your team?
This is a loaded question, so much advice I can share! I will keep it brief. An HRBP is a function within People and Talent. As such we are a support role to the business. It is necessary to embrace a progressive mindset focused on steward leadership to ensure you help foster an environment where talented employees are nurtured and help grow the business.
What is something that you’re proud of that you’ve accomplished in your role?
I am proud of continuously contributing to the evolution and improvement of team processes by providing feedback and sharing ideas that increase strategic output, drive efficiency and enhance technical capabilities.
What is something that most people don’t know about you?
I converted a Dodge ProMaster into a home and lived vanlife 1/3rd of the year! On my bucket list is to travel by van to all the National Parks in the contiguous United States.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I live an active lifestyle. Hobbies include running, cycling, and hiking.
Before working at AvantStay, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
In college I did Wildness Search and Rescue at Yosemite for a summer.
What is your favorite AvantStay memory?
My favorite AvantStay memory to date was when I was selected as HERO of the month. I was both nervous and excited to send us away that day. GTGF!
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.
What’s your favorite Slack channel?
Oh man, too many to pick just one! Toss up between #avantstay-diy-channel #green-thumbs-of-avant and #petsofavantstay
What’s your favorite AvantStay employee perk?
Travel Credits
What has working at AvantStay taught you about the most?
How lucrative residential rental properties are. Great ROI!
Just like that, tax season is here. This not-so-festive time of year can be stressful for short-term rental owners, but it doesn’t have to be. Preparation is key when it comes to filing your taxes. Our guide will make this often tedious process a breeze. We’ll cover unique vacation rental tax rules, deductions, and everything in between.
The filing deadline to submit 2022 tax returns is Tuesday, April 18, 2023.
The 14-day rule
One of the most important vacation rental tax rules is the 14-day rule. According to the IRS, if a property is used as a home and you rent it out for less than 14 days in the tax year, you do not have to report income generated. On the other hand, if you rent your property for 14 days or more, you have to report your income and are subject to taxes. Luckily, you can deduct expenses that come from running your short-term rental, but more on that later.
If you stayed at your vacation rental home for more than 14 days, or more than 10% of the total time rented, things get a little tricky. When reporting your expenses, you’ll have to categorize them by rental use and personal use. The IRS considers personal use as any time you or someone in your family occupies your vacation rental. It’s also considered personal use if you rent your home to anyone for “less than a fair rental price.” If you need to stay at your property to work on home maintenance projects, those stays don’t count toward your personal use days. Just be sure to document the time and reason for your stay.
1031 Exchanges
Short-term rental investors should leverage the tax benefits of a 1031 exchange. In short, a 1031 exchange is the act of “swapping” one investment property for another like-kind property. If you meet the requirements of 1031, you’re able to defer capital gains tax on the sale. Investors can use a 1031 exchange to purchase a vacation rental property, as long as the home is rented for more than 14 days in the tax year. The rules and requirements of 1031 exchanges can be complicated, so short-term rental investors should work with a tax professional before making any moves.
Short-term rental tax deductions
If you rent your home out for more than 14 days, you’re able to deduct the expenses of running your short-term rental business from your income. Common short-term rental tax deductions include:
Advertising
Auto and travel expenses
Cleaning and maintenance
Commissions
Depreciation
Insurance
Legal and other professional fees
Local transportation expenses
Management fees
Mortgage interest paid to banks, etc.
Rental payments
Repairs
Taxes
Utilities
One thing to keep in mind is the difference between repairs and improvements. Most repair costs can be considered tax write-offs, while home improvement costs can be a little more complicated. A repair is when you fix something that is damaged or broken, while an improvement adds value to your vacation rental. Examples of improvements include room additions, installing a pool, upgrading your appliances, and more. Divvy up these expenses and keep detailed, accurate records and receipts.
We also suggest using IRS Publication 527 as your go-to resource for all vacation rental tax questions and consider working with a tax professional to help with the nuances of these deductions.
Schedule C vs. Schedule E
When filing your vacation rental taxes, you’ll have to choose the right 1040 form. The two main options for short-term rentals are Schedule C and Schedule E. With Schedule C, you’re subject to a self-employment tax which is used to fund Medicare and Social Security. With Schedule E, your rental income is considered passive and you’re not subject to the self-employment tax.
For both forms, you’ll need to provide documented expenses, 1099s for contractor payments, property usage schedule, and gross rental income. Here’s how to determine which form you should file:
Schedule C
Use the Schedule C form if managing your short-term rental is your primary business and you provide guests with substantial services during their stay. Examples of substantial services include:
Housekeeping (during the stay)
Linen replacements
Concierge service
Meals
Transportation
Tours and activities
Substantial services don’t include the cleaning of public areas, paying utilities, repairs and maintenance, providing WiFi, etc.
Schedule E
Use the Schedule E form if your short-term rental is a way to generate additional income and you don’t provide substantial services or enough involvement for the IRS to consider you a self-employed vacation rental manager.
Local laws for vacation rental taxes
Vacation rental tax laws vary by state and local governments. Some jurisdictions require hosts to collect occupancy taxes directly from guests. These taxes are also known as lodging, hotel, or transient taxes depending on the location. Several online travel agencies (OTAs), like Airbnb, collect occupancy taxes on behalf of vacation rental hosts, but this also varies by location. In most cases, you will be responsible for collecting and remitting any taxes. For this reason, it’s essential that you understand your local vacation rental tax laws and payment schedules.
Partner with an expert
Ditch the operational headache of running a short-term rental on your own (and avoid self-employment taxes) by hiring a vacation rental management company. When you partner with AvantStay, you get access to our Policy & Compliance team which ensures your home is compliant and operating within all regulations governed by HOAs and other local authorities. We collect all required taxes from guests directly and report and remit taxes on your behalf in compliance with local regulations. We also provide a detailed year-end statement that includes all expenses categorized according to Schedule E. Another perk? Your management fee could be tax deductible!
Planning a February vacation to Key West, Florida? We’ll let you in on a secret — February is one of our favorite months of the year in Key West.
Whether you’re coming for the long President’s Day weekend, celebrating Valentine’s Day, or just planning a getaway, Key West is a great destination this February. Why not escape the cold winter this year and head to Key West? In February, the weather in Key West is an average high of 76 and low of 66, and it’s the month with the lowest amount of rain. For most people who want to escape a chilly winter on the East Coast or Midwest, it’s perfect.
Don’t wait any longer to pack your bags. Here’s our guide to the top things to do in Key West in February.
KEY WEST EVENTS IN FEBRUARY
Valentine’s Day
Plan a romantic getaway to Key West for Valentine’s Day. There are tons of things to do here for couples, whether you prefer visiting historical sites, relaxing on the beach, or enjoying a few happy hours at one of the popular bars. Key West is great because you can just be on island time and enjoy one another’s company. Want to get adventurous? Rent jet skis together! Want to indulge in a great meal? Make a reservation at one of Key West’s best restaurants.
Annual Old Days Art Festival in Key West
February 25-26, 2023
Just off Duval Street in the Truman Annex neighborhood, the Annual Old Island Days Art Festival is a must-visit in February. This massive event attracts nearly 25,000 people and brings more than 100 fine artists to the region. If you’re looking for a new piece to bring home or just want to browse beautiful pieces, this is the event for you.
Source: Key West Food Tours
Book Your Key West Vacation For February 2022
Escape to the Florida Keys with us this February. Browse our Key West vacation rentals and book your stay in the Southernmost Point of the U.S. today.
Here at AvantStay, we believe our employees deserve more recognition than just your traditional Employee of the Year – instead, we recognize our HERO’s. An AvantStay “HERO” is someone who is Hungry, Excellent, Resilient, and Open.
Earlier this month, we awarded five talented individuals from our team whose star-power really shined through last year. Please join us in congratulating our 2022 AvantStay HEROs of the year and check out what their teammates had to say!
HERO of the Year
Taylor Wright, CX Manager
“I cannot send enough praise Taylor’s way. She has taken on more challenges this year than I could write. Most notably, she’s transformed our relocations & VIP team into a well-oiled machine while simultaneously building a service improvement team. Taylor has effortlessly taken charge of ensuring AvantStay is positioned to obtain Superhost ensuring we’re learning from each review we receive. Taylor is selfless and easy to work with. She’s proactive when it comes to gaps in the organization, and she’s all about empowering her team members to take ownership, support each other, and hold each other accountable to do great work.”
Most Hungry
Cameron Herget, Brand Content Producer
“Cameron takes initiative to succeed at her role, but she’s also constantly stepped up to support the team and shift to learning new responsibilities. This year, she’s moved seamlessly from focusing on social content to taking on work on the blog, emails, ads, and overall marketing strategy. She’s always fast to respond when someone on the team needs help, and she captures the bold, playful tone of our brand voice & visuals so well across channels and her hunger to improve & learn always shows through!”
Most Excellent
Will Parkhouse, Senior Director of Field Operations
“There are not enough good things to say about Will. I know I speak on behalf of the whole Field Team when I say that I think the world of Will and I know there is no better leader for his role than him. This man is ALWAYS on point! No matter the time of day or how “sticky” of a situation you may be in, Will is there with a huge smile and encouraging words. I have never encountered another person like him at work or even in my personal life. Will’s dedication and drive are unmatched. He has the most positive attitude and enthusiasm for this company and life in general. Of all the amazing assets AvantStay has, Will is definitely one of our best”
Most Resilient
Hannah Gwazdauskas, OX Training & Onboarding Specialist
“Hannah is someone who serves others before herself, takes pride in doing a good job, and always has a good attitude regardless of the situation. She has been dealt an interesting hand this last year at AvantStay with shifting responsibilities, and now leading our offshore team to help alleviate the number of accounts OEM’s have and provide a great experience for all involved. Hannah is an integral part of AvantStay and deserves this award of Most Resilient!”
Most Open
Chloe Buss, Field Operations Regional Director
“Chloe is always open to new ideas that may work better for certain markets or improve the flow of certain field ops teams. When I go into markets, I always ask her what I can do to assist in the market even if it is not one of hers.”
The short-term rental market saw unprecedented growth in 2022, with supply and demand reaching all-time highs. Now more than ever, vacation rental owners are worried about demand shifts in this post-pandemic environment. Is market saturation something to worry about? And how can owners drive strong rental performance in the midst of these changes? Our team got together to discuss what makes this market so uncertain and how vacation rental owners can stay competitive.
The current state of the short-term rental market
2022 was a whirlwind for the real estate and short-term rental markets. Here are our key observations:
Interest rates have more than doubled in the last 6-7 months, and as a result, prices are plateauing, homes are trading less frequently, and buyers are struggling to obtain preferential financing.
Short-term rental demand remains strong. Investors that are on top of their game can continue to see strong returns on their homes and can acquire properties at lower rates.
Supply growth is up YoY in most markets. We need to look at trends in each market to adjust to the new environment (Scottsdale supply is up 47% YoY and the Smoky Mountains supply is up 29% YoY).
Owners and property managers are becoming increasingly sophisticated and progressing the industry forward. The end-to-end process in management is unrecognizable from 5-6 years ago. This creates an opportunity for those that approach the competitive market and play offense to see great returns.
Revenue management and how it drives rental performance
Emre Ilgaz, AvantStay’s Associate Director of Revenue Management, defines this process as selling the right home, to the right customer, at the right time, via the right channel, for the right price.
“We often have the debate, ‘is revenue management an art or a science,’” says Emre, “but it’s a combination of both.”
He also notes that while most people view pricing as the core focus of revenue management, it’s not sufficient by itself to optimize revenue. Pricing needs to be supported with effective availability strategies, marketing, and listing and channel optimization, and they all require a strong understanding of demand and booking trends.
Vacation rental owners should keep the following in mind when pricing their homes for success:
1. Revenue management goes beyond pricing; it must be paired with:
At AvantStay, we optimize for the amount of revenue we give back to owners so they can make the most of their investment. The two components that go into that are the average daily rate (ADR) and occupancy. It may be tempting to either optimize for occupancy or for higher daily rates, but you need to optimize for both. Focus on RevPAR (revenue per available room), not ADR or occupancy alone.
3. Forward-looking, real-time data drives success in a fast-changing market
Use historical data as a guide, but focus on how the market is currently pacing. Monitor demand shifts in real-time and focus on forward-looking, real-time pricing.
4. Every market is different and requires a different approach
Understand that each market is different, and one blanket strategy isn’t applicable to all. This also goes for homes. Effective revenue management should look at the unique features of a home along with its location and proximity to local attractions, and back that with data.
Other ways short-term rental owners can stay ahead of the market
Revenue management is key to strong rental performance, but consider these strategies to make your home shine among the competition.
Differentiate your home
In a competitive market, the homes that are going to get bookings and drive strong returns are the unique and exciting homes that stand out from the rest. Have the experiential amenities that guests are looking for—folks traveling to Scottsdale will be looking for rentals with a pool and lawn games, while those traveling to the Smoky Mountains in the winter will prefer a hot tub. If you have unique amenities, like a game room or putting green, showcase these in some of the first photos on your listing page to grab guests’ attention.
Optimize your marketing and reach
Expand your reach beyond the two main online travel agencies (OTAs): Airbnb and Vrbo. There are a ton of other websites that can help you reach new guests. First, make sure your listing is optimized with relevant keywords and professional photos to reach the right people, at the right time, and drive bookings.
Foster five-star ratings
There’s a direct correlation between positive reviews and bookings. Homes with higher ratings will see better performance compared to nearly identical homes with lower ratings. Create an exceptional guest experience and care for your property to encourage more five-star reviews.
Understand market regulations
Stay on top of your local short-term rental regulations and keep your permit up to date to avoid hefty fines and legal repercussions. These regulations can also limit your revenue management strategy as some jurisdictions track and enforce nightly-minimum restrictions or the total number of reservations you can have during the year.
Work with a professional vacation rental manager
As the market gets more competitive, the value of professional property management continues to grow. There’s a lot of complexity to optimizing a vacation rental. Working with a property manager that understands where price points are while also supporting interior design, permitting and compliance, listing creation, distribution, and more can help drive great returns.
That’s where AvantStay comes in. We offer end-to-end management services to give you peace of mind. From financials to design to maintenance, we take care of your home as if it were our own. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management, and activates an elevated guest experience. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and relax—it’s that simple.
We’re getting oh-so-close to the Big Game! Whether you’re just interested in The Puppy Bowl or actually can’t wait to see your team win, we’ve created a roundup with the best Airbnbs with private movie theaters for you to watch this year’s Super Bowl. Bring your best guac and we’ll bring the stays – these homes are sure to be a winner in your book.
1. Haywood – Smoky Mountains, TN
Say hello to Haywood. This impressive cabin comes with an 8-seat theater, an indoor pool, three expansive decks, a hot tub, and a massive kitchen for all those game day snacks you’re planning to whip up. The best part of this stay? You’re immersed in the beautiful Smokies, so on the off chance that your team doesn’t score big, you at least have a lot of land to go and comfortably scream into the void (or try any of our 35 Favorite Things to Do in the Smokies).
2. Sandstone – Scottsdale, AZ
Every game day deserves a little decompression session. Before kickoff, treat yourself to all the amenities this Scottsdale Airbnb has to offer. From the pool to the hot tub, the basketball court to the fire pit, Sandstone’sgot it going on. When you feel that your R&R levels are where they should be, head back inside to the home’s indoor theater.
3. Canopy – Park City, UT
In the spirit of game day sanctuaries, let us introduce you to Canopy. This Park Citystay comes complete with a sauna, fireplace, poker set, pool table, a massive deck on each level and, of course, an indoor theater for the Big Game.
Welcome to Grand Contento, which is exactly what you’ll be after a stay at this show stopping Temecula Airbnb. This home comes with a pool table and a massive private theater with room for up to 25 people. Have some stragglers in your group that are rooting for the opposing team? Perfect! Put them in the guest house where they belong. When you’re ready to be civil again, cheers to your vacation in the outdoor seating area.
5. Sycamore – Smoky Mountains, TN
One of our favorite things about our cabins in the Smoky Mountains is they all come fully loaded. Sycamore is a 6 bed, 6.5 bath stay with room for up to 18 guests. It shows its playful personality with modern rustic interiors, an indoor pool, outdoor hot tub, private home theater, pool table, al fresco dining, and an idyllic fire pit.
6. Oak and Luna – Big Bear, CA
You’re scoring big, and it’s not just in the game. Come to Oak and Luna for idyllic views of the great outdoors of Big Bear. Kick your feet back and relax while you watch the Super Bowl in this 6-person indoor theater. After a game well done, chill out in the hot tub and cheers to the good life.
Is it hot in here or is it just this home? Black Rock is a star-studded stay located in Paradise Valley. Seen all across our socialsand known for that stunner infinity pool, this home is something you’ve just got to see to believe. When you’re not deep in the football zone, relax by the fire pit or play a game of pool and enjoy the views of the desert around you.
8. Timberline – Lake Tahoe, CA
Bring your A game to this Lake Tahoe A-frame. Timberlineis the perfect place to lounge while you’re waiting for Rihanna to come on stage. A trip here entails hot tub seshes, plenty of deck hangs, s’mores by the fire pit, a game or two of billiards, and IG-worthy interior design. This home’s theater comes with 9 seats that recline, so we hope you’re ready to get cozy.
Colorado is calling. Text the group chat and tell them you’re headed to River Rock. If it weren’t for this Airbnb’s extra cozy movie theater, let it be for that lovely hot tub on the deck where you can sit and watch the snow fall. Extend your stay past the game day weekend and head to the nearby Breckenridge Ski Resort where you can spend days soaking up all Breckenridge has to offer.
10. Indio Escape – Coachella Valley, CA
Is it time for the halftime show yet? That’s what you’ll be saying while you’re waiting to soak up all there is to offer at Indio Escape. This Coachella Valley Airbnb comes with a modern fire pit, pool, hot tub, and dining table perfect for those lax al fresco moments. The movie room also comes with a mini-arcade – so you get maximum game time.
11. Paramount Place – Austin, TX
Everything’s bigger in Texas… especially the Airbnbs. Paramount Place is known for its easy access to downtown Austin and all it has to offer. When you’re not watching the game in the cozy movie theater, try walking the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge for a different view of the city.
Pinot?! This wine pairs well with pretending to know what’s happening in the game. Pinot Point is a 5 bedroom home with an infinity pool that pours off into views of the rolling Temecula hills. Make sure you’re stocked up on beer – there’s more than enough seating for everyone to have a “cheers” outside after you’ve spent the game day in this Airbnb’s private theater.
There’s a lot more where that came from! Click here for our full collection of homes with movie theaters – and may the best team win.
