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.
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.
Grab your cowboy boots and head down south – it’s time for a trip to Austin! Whether it’s your first time in ATX or you’re a seasoned Texas traveler, my 24-hour guide has got all you need to get the full Tex-perience. As a newfound local, I can vouch that from the rivers, to the springs, to all the good food in between, Austin’s a great place to visit for any occasion – whether it be a bachelorette, an anniversary, or simply a weekend getaway. Get to readin’ and see why you’ve just found your next best vacation!
4:00 PM
Arrive in the afternoon at your AvantStay, Carousel. This condo is located in a high rise right by the Rainey Street Historic District. Rainey Street is a row of historic bungalow homes that’s become an absolute must-see spot within the last 20 years. Not too long ago, people used to actually live and party at these homes! Now, the once residential homes have been converted into bars and restaurants.
5:00 PM
Drop your luggage off and head straight to the pool. Depending on what time of the year you come, it’s more than likely above 80°F – so a cool-down session is well deserved. Take in the city views while you relax on any of the cozy seating options available on the rooftop. Bring a 12-pack with you; there’s a mini fridge in the pool’s club house for your drinking pleasure.
6:00 PM
If you need to get a bit of work done before your lounging begins, head inside to the clubhouse where you’ll find even more seating, speedy WiFi, a huge TV with surround sound, a wet bar, and a ping pong table. Pull the curtains open for great natural light and a gorgeous view of the Colorado River that runs through Austin.
8:00 PM
When it’s time to switch from work to play, head to any of the local bars or restaurants just a 3-minute walk away on Rainey Street. For drinks, I recommend Anthem, a Tex-Asian Pub with lovely luau decor and all the tiki vibes. For dinner, try Banger’s Sausage House. This spot has tons of outdoor seating and the best sausage I’ve ever had.
10:00 PM
If you’re eager to keep the night going, you can walk or take a 5-minute Uber to 6th Street where the real action is always happening. No itinerary needed here, just an open mind and willingness to get your Honky Tonk on. The best place on 6th for drinks is at Midnight Cowboy. Try snagging a reservation and get the El Fumado Pimiento. If it’s booked and busy, no worries. Live music, food trucks, and bustling energy can all be found throughout this iconic street. No matter where you end up, you’ll find a good time.
9:00 AM
Try to get a healthy amount of sleep so you can wake up and get your fitness on. The world’s your oyster here at Parish – so either partake in some outdoor yoga in the courtyard or stay cool inside and break a sweat in the gym, cycling rooms, or dedicated yoga space.
10:00 AM
You’ve got one big adventure-filled day in TX ahead of you! If you’re looking for a quick breakfast spot, walk outside the building and head to Royal Blue Grocery for $4 breakfast tacos, coffee, and more.
11:00 AM
Take a trip to Barton Springs Pool. Known by locals as the best place to cool down from the ATX heat, this man-made spring stays cool no matter what time of the year you visit. Bring a picnic blanket and water, but leave your seltzers at home! No alcohol is allowed at this spot.
1:00 PM
After a nice swim sesh, you deserve a drink and some good food. Rent some bikes from the Austin B-Cycle app and take the River Trail down to Cidercade. Drop your bikes off at the nearest bike station (your app can show you where) and go inside for some good old-fashioned arcade games and a taste of local Austin ciders. Not that I’d ever pick favorites, but their Dance Dance Revolution game is the best dose of nostalgia anyone could ask for.
3:00 PM
Finish your first 24 hours in Austin with a well-deserved Uber ride back to Parish. Give yourself a pat on the back – you just packed in all the best parts of ATX into one day, and that deserves a round of applause.
4:00 PM
Once you’re back at home-base (and are well hydrated again), let the afternoon fade into evening with another rooftop pool sesh. From exploring the great outdoors and crawling the bar scene, to getting your fitness on, you’ve checked all the boxes for a perfect vacation. Now, it’s time for some good ole’ R&R for the rest of your AvantStay with us.
Don’t feel like leaving after just two days? You don’t have to! Check out all of our other great Austin AvantStays here (or think ahead and book your stay for a few more days, instead ☺).
Desert oasis. Party town. Festival hotspot. Tranquil sanctuary. Culinary destination. Palm Springs is all of these things and more. That’s why it’s an ideal destination when you and your crew need to press pause on the day-to-day and spend time recharging by the pool. Explore the best things to do in Palm Springs, and be sure to pack your sunscreen and a stylish pair of shades. Palm Springs is a mecca for sun worshippers or anyone longing to feel a few rays on their shoulders before tucking themselves away in a cabana with a colorful drink in hand.
The arid getaway’s aesthetic evokes the Hollywood glamour of yesteryear with its glassy mid-century modern houses and breathtaking Spanish villas with red Terracotta tile roofs tucked away in the hillsides.
This picturesque locale truly comes alive in the summer with festivals like Coachella and Stagecoach kicking its already vibrant party scene into overdrive. So don’t be surprised if you see many bachelorette parties in Palm Springs. Of course, if your vibe is more low-key, Palm Springs is the perfect place to spend time not doing much of anything besides relaxing by the pool with your favorite people.
Hotel El Cid by AvantStay
Adrenaline-pumping activities
1. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Catch a thrilling ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway in a glassed-in vessel that rises 2.5 miles straight up Chino Canyon in 10 minutes flat. Views from the top are astounding, and there are hiking trails, dining options, and a museum to visit.
2. Agua Caliente Casino
Gaming tables, live entertainment, and slot machines tempt adults at the Agua Caliente Casinos in both Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage. Profits support the Agua Caliente Band of the Cahuilla Indians, keeping their community and culture vibrant into the 21st century.
3. Coachella Music Festival
Attend the country’s largest music festival: Coachella. Held annually in Indio, a town about 30 minutes from Palm Springs, one pricey ticket gets you several days of top-rated musical entertainment for the young and young at heart – and the hungry. For festival pass holders, Outstanding In The Field sets a long table in the tranquil hideaway of the VIP Rose Garden. This intimate area allows you to take refuge (and a seat) at the festival while you mingle with other guests over a full-service, four-course, family-style meal, a cocktail, and some regional wine. Dinner is served around sunset. Tickets for this dinner are priced separately and seating is reserved.
4. Indian Canyons Trails
Hike at any of the groups of trails at Indian Canyons. Just nine miles south of town, these easy and well-marked hiking paths run along a stream bed and boast shade from the heat, thanks to giant palm trees. Tahquitz Canyon in particular is one of the most beautiful and culturally sensitive areas of the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation and is home to a spectacular, seasonal 60-foot waterfall, rock art, ancient irrigation systems, native wildlife, and plants. This Canyon is sacred to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
Source: Visit Greater Palm Springs
5. Bike Palm Springs
Put the pedal to the metal, or better yet, rent an electric bicycle at Bike Palm Springs. With flat terrain and multiple bike paths, Palm Springs is ideal for this mode of transportation. City maps, bike locks, and helmets come with an hourly rental cost.
6. Stagecoach Festival
Crazy about country music? You’ll want to attend Stagecoach Festival, the country’s largest country music festival, held over three days in April in Coachella Valley. Other festivals hosted here range from pedigree dog shows and polo matches to BBQ competitions and Cabazon Indian Pow-Wows.
7. BMW Performance Center
Take the wheel at the BMW Performance Center for a fun thing – and an unforgettable experience. This is a great way to sample several BMW vehicles. Take the wheel of a BMW X vehicle as you follow an instructor through a challenging off-road course. Then, head to the track and rotate between various BMW vehicles, driving each through tight corners and fast straightaways. Finally, buckle up in the passenger seat for a hot lap with an instructor as they drift and accelerate around the track.
8. Red Jeep Tours
Take a Red Jeep Tours open-air jeep ride for an engaging, entertaining, and educational journey with a highly-trained naturalist tour guide at the wheel.
Source: Palm Springs Life
Find your zen
9. Cholla Cactus Garden
Catch the sunrise from the Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree National Park, a major attraction located about 40 miles from Palm Springs. Take the quarter-mile trail to a 10-acre patch containing more than 20 varieties of cacti, with evocative names like Groundcherry and Cheesebush, and watch the desert sky come to life.
10. State Fare Bar and Kitchen
Savor sunsets at the lounge in The Ritz-Carlton’s State Fare Bar and Kitchen in nearby Rancho Mirage (just turn up Frank Sinatra Drive). Located on a bluff 700 feet above the valley, there is no better place to sip a cocktail and build your own pizza while the sky turns pink and purple in the distance.
11. Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory
Stargaze at the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory. This is a complimentary night-time activity that will thrill adults and kids alike. Located adjacent to the town’s public library, there’s a full-time astronomer onsite nightly.
12. Desert Hot Springs
Take the plunge into Desert Hot Springs. Thermal mineral waters have sprung up from the earth surrounding the San Andreas Fault for hundreds of years. Dozens of local resorts offer day passes to soak in the waters which are known to cure joint aches and arthritis, migraines, depression, and low energy.
Source: Visit Greater Palm Springs
Where to gawk
13. Palm Springs Celebrity Tours
Book a Celebrity Homes guided tour with Palm Springs Celebrity Tours and gawk at the residences of Cary Grant, Marilyn Monroe, Katherine Hepburn, Elvis, Sinatra, and Dean Martin from the comfort of a Land Rover. Guides will spill juicy details of the owners’ lives (and loves) here along the way.
14. Palm Springs Historical Society
The Palm Springs Historical Society provides a handful of well-priced, in-depth tours by foot or by bike, including the storied Las Palmas neighborhood to see where Judy Garland, Gene Autry, Lena Horne, Kirk Douglas, and Dinah Shores lived and played.
15. Palm Springs Walking Tour
Take a walking tour of Palm Springs. Download the GPSmyCity app on your phone and follow the map for sightseeing at its best. You’ll log about 4.5 miles and will see a lot in those three hours.
16. Palm Springs Art Museum
Get cultured at the Palm Springs Art Museum, whose collection includes 12,000 modern and contemporary works. It’s free on Thursdays, second Sundays, and for those under 18.
17. Architecture Tours
Be awed by an architecture tour. There are numerous local operators to choose from, including Palm Springs Mod Squad, and you can customize tours by your interest level, budget, and available time.
Source: Palm Springs Mod Squad
18. Sunnylands
Scope out Sunnylands, a 200-acre property built by Walter and Lenore Annenberg. Tour their historic estate, ride a shuttle around the extensive grounds, learn about native birds, and stroll through a garden whose colorful blooms were inspired by the couple’s Post-Impressionist art collection. Advance tickets are required.
19. Palm Springs Air Museum
Treat yourself to a visit at the Palm Springs Air Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of flyable aircraft from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, displayed in a hangar that lets you get up close and personal with the planes. Here, you’ll have access to exhibits, activities, air shows, and the opportunity to take a one-hour ride in one of four vintage airplanes, priced from $200 to $5,000.
Moorten Botanical Garden is a privately-owned arboretum created to share the beauty and extraordinary varieties of desert plants with visitors. The Moortens are desert plant specialists happy to invite you to their residence estate. There’s something of interest for everyone here, with glistening crystals, colorful rocks, ancient fossils, and pioneer and gold mining relics. Classic collections on display include more than 3,000 varieties of plants designed in concentrated habitats along a nature trail.
Source: The Horticult
22. The Shag Store
The Shag Store is an art gallery and retail space located in the Palm Springs Uptown Design District, dedicated exclusively to the artist Josh Agle Shag and his distinctive artistic style that draws on his sly sense of humor. The store offers prints, original art, merchandise, and unique products that capture the spirit of desert modernism.
23. Windmill Tour
The best place to catch a breeze may be on a Windmill Tour. These giant wind turbines are an iconic symbol as you arrive in the Coachella Valley. Take a self-driving windmill tour or off-road bike tour to explore the evolution of wind turbines on a private wind farm. The tour allows you to exit at each stop and guides you with a curated video.
Source: Palm Springs Windmill Tours
Best places to eat in Palm Springs
24. Johannes
Reserve your seat for dinner at Johannes. Named for its chef-owner, who hails from the Tyrolean Alps, this stylish downtown outpost is ideal for indulging in Austrian classics like wiener schnitzel or Jager beef steak.
25. Le Vallauris
Splurge at Le Vallauris on Tahquitz Canyon Way. Its terrace was constructed around a stand of mature shade trees to keep diners cool. Try the three-course prix fixe menu for $97 and peruse the options on the 22-page wine list. If you prefer to dine al fresco, the garden patio is perfectly romantic, situated among Lupe Ficus trees and the scent of the sweet desert air.
26. La Quinta Brewing Company Taproom
Quaff a cold one at La Quinta Brewing Company Taproom. This local microbrewery offers a dozen or so beers that rotate seasonally. Look for Poolside Blonde, Even Par, or Sundaze Session IPA. Go at Happy Hour most weekdays from 3-5 pm to enjoy $2 off per glass.
27. Eight4Nine Restaurant and Lounge
Eight4Nine Restaurant and Lounge is located in the fashionable Uptown Design District of Palm Springs and is open for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch. Dishes like the Five Spice Duck Confit with Jerusalem artichoke puree, port, and damson sauce and dessert of Brandini Toffee S’Mores Fondue with house-made marshmallow, locally-made Brandini toffee, Callebaut chocolate, graham crackers, and mixed berries are sure to get your mouth watering.
Source: Gay Desert Guide
Best spots to shop
28. Shopping For Her
From quirky independent boutiques to designer outlets, Palm Springs has an amazing variety of things to buy. Relax and stroll northbound on Indian Palms Street, then southbound on Palm Canyon Drive. Don’t miss the chance to scoop up a new warm-weather frock at Elizabeth & Prince, Revenge Boutique, Oooh La La consignments, and Blonde.
29. Shopping For Him
For him, try on the Wil Stiles men’s department, referred to as a “steroid boost in the sport of competitive dressing.” Mod-patterned, cotton short-sleeved shirts reminiscent of Piccadilly Circus sell for about $140.
30. Spa Treatments
Save your skin. The Palm Springs dry air and sunshine call for a stop at one of the dozens of day spas scattered throughout Palm Springs. Be sure to treat yourself to a skin tune-up. Peruse the selection of serious facials at Organic Glow Skin Studio, with treatments that range from $50-$100.
31. Palm Springs VillageFest
The Palm Springs VillageFest in Coachella Valley is the place to be on Thursday nights. This street fair features arts, crafts, food, and entertainment within the beautiful downtown Palm Springs
The Monkey Tree Hotel by AvantStay
Best golf courses in Palm Springs
32. Rancho Las Palmas Country Club
The golf course at Rancho Las Palmas Country Club requires membership, but if you like your bogey with a side of palm trees, lakes, rolling terrain, and views of the San Jacinto Mountains, you’ll want to sign up. These three 9-hole courses were designed by the best in the business. Call for tee times and get there early to enjoy a breakfast of Brioche French Toast or Tofu Scramble at the club’s onsite restaurant, BluEmber.
33. Nicklaus Tournament Golf Course
If you’re booked to stay at AvantStay’s Fowler rental in Coachella Valley, golf is just beyond this vibrant home. In fact, it overlooks the famous Nicklaus Tournament Golf Course and Santa Rosa mountains. You don’t have to be a member to play golf in this 2,000-acre golf and lifestyle community in La Quinta. You might even spot a few high-profile celebrities, PGA tour pros, and quite possibly a U.S. President. Many have enjoyed this golf course with 109 holes of championship golf on six legendary courses.
The Marley Hotel by AvantStay
If you’re in need of an exciting getaway in a warm, spirited city, Palm Springs is the perfect vacation spot for you. From highly-anticipated events like Coachella & the Stagecoach Festival to breathtaking gardens and sprawling golf courses, this place is sure to introduce you to something new. See for yourself by booking with one of AvantStay’s Palm Spring hotels.
Take the road less traveled this summer and stay at one of AvantStay’s cabinesque homes, guaranteed to satisfy that long-lost nostalgia you have for summer camp. Our collection of woodsy properties feature hot tubs under the stars, al fresco dining experiences, and rustic vibes that will take you back to the good ol’ days around the fire pit with your favorite people..
Tarly – Tahoe
Let’s start this round-up right. Meet Tarly, a cabin nestled deep in the pines of Lake Tahoe, CA. The best way to stay is with 7 of your favorite people hanging out in the jacuzzi under the pines. High wood beamed ceilings, a cozy fireplace, two large patios, and a grill with a view make it all even campier.
Chateau Syrah – Temecula
Meet Chateau Syrah. The whole crew gets to tag along to this cabin-shaped chateau, which sleeps up to 22 people. Spend days lounging by the pool, grilling out courtesy of the outdoor kitchen, or taking a short drive to Wilson Creek Winery. Finish the night off with a dip in the hot tub. Steamy!
Ute Lodge – Telluride
No cabin fever here. Meet Ute Lodge, a Colorado escape just minutes from the Telluride slopes that provides endless activities for you and your group no matter what sort of vacation you have in mind. Enjoy al fresco dinners on the expansive patio, stargazing from the fire pit, and soaking away any ski soreness in the jacuzzi.
Bighorn – Vail
Bighorn. Big house. Big views. Bighorn. You get the point. This secluded mountain home sleeps up to 12 guests and is ideally located for those looking to spend time at nearby attractions, including the Vail Ski Resort, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, and the Vail Farmers Market. A short drive from the resort, the abode’s bright and contemporary interior, along with two private units downstairs, create the perfect environment for a group who knows the beauty of spreading out after a long day on the slopes.
Klamath – Sunriver OR
Things just add up at Klamath.Come here for the unbeatable lakeside views, the best of outdoor living, and fire pit moments featuring aromatic pine. Find your bliss with a cocktail in the hot tub— an unbeatable combo. Whether you’re coming to Central Oregon for skiing, mountain biking, or hiking, this charming waterfront home provides the perfect (oversized) cabinesque retreat after a day of adventure in Bend.
Santo Cristo – Arch Cape, OR Coast
Start the group chat – you’re going to the Oregon Coast. Santo Cristo is a quiet retreat just 15 minutes south of Cannon Beach,where the old-growth forest meets the Pacific Ocean. This home gives all the cabin vibes with natural wood accents, contemporary furnishings, and encompassing views of the trees. If you’re lucky, you’ll spy whales migrating off-shore or witness massive storm waves rolling into Gull Rock.
Raven – Sullivans Island, Charleston, SC
The higher the decks, the better the stay. Reach new heights at Raven, an ultra unique property featuring a 4-level deck, each with its own balcony. Complete with a game room, pool, and hot tub, this Charleston retreat is ready to entertain all your fellow campers with its plentiful amenities and prime location. A short trip to the Sullivan’s Island Nature Trail, Station 18 Beach, and Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, Raven is here to entertain both in-home and out.
Red Hawk – Park City
Hellooo, Park City! Situated just a few blocks away from the historic Main Street, Red Hawk is a haven for those looking to explore the town center. Plush outdoor sofas cover the expansive deck, encouraging you to take full advantage of the outdoor grill—which, by the way, we make easy to do with fridge stocking service, easily booked through the AvantStay app. (this is a camp-inspired experience, after all). You can order a BBQ package at the touch of a button and skip the grocery store all together. Relax after dinner by vibing out in the hot tub, then head to the in-home theater to watch a movie on the 90′ screen. It doesn’t get much glamp-ier than this.
Haywood – Sevierville, Smokies
Hay is for horses, and Haywood is for relaxation. Enter, the ultimate decompression session. After a day hiking one of the many trails in the Great Smoky National Park, find yourself sprawled out on one of the three balconies this home has to offer. An indoor pool, hot tubs, rocking chairs, and picture-perfect views of the Smokies make this Sevierville cabin one of the best for those looking to disconnect to reconnect with Mother Nature.
Sugarland – Pigeon Forge, TN
Last but certainly not least is Sugarland.If you’re not in the mood for a hike but want to enjoy the scenery, this stay provides jaw-dropping panoramic views with its large windows and comes with a fireplace for extra coziness. Sugarland takes all those nostalgic camping activities you know and love, and gives them a full upgrade. Check out its two steamy hot tubs, an indoor pool, home theater, and game room. Add on its massive balcony and the fact that Dollywood is a mere 30-minute drive away, and you’ve got the ultimate cabin escape. Watch out fellow campers, this home’s bringing the competition.
Need more cabin inspo? Check out our full list of cabins that are perfect for your summer getaway.
Key West enjoys a privileged vacation in southwest Florida, claiming the title of the southernmost city in the continental United States. Although Key West is a mere four miles long and 1.5 miles wide, this tourist attraction packs a punch with activities to do.
Did you know that Key West is that it’s closer to Cuba than it is to Miami? Cuba is only 95 miles away at its nearest point, whereas Miami is 130 miles by flight, offering bragging rights when you return from your vacation or choose to call Key West home.
Before the 19th century, the Native American tribes Calusa and Tequesta lived in Key West. Once the Spanish transferred Florida from Spain to Great Britain in 1763, they moved these natives to Cuba. It wasn’t until 1822 when Lieutenant Commander Matthew C. Perry set a U.S. flag in the Florida Keys and declared it American territory.
Since then, Americans and foreigners alike have flocked to experience the historical and nature-based things to do in Key West. Some people even love it so much that they decide to make Key West their permanent home base. Regardless of your situation, we’ll share the must-dos in Key West. So, get ready and take notes of the best Key West attractions.
1. Make a Bee-line to Duval Street
Duval Street is the place to see in Key West if you’re short on time. The approximately one-mile street sits in the heart of Key West’s old town, between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
Many of the activities we’ll be discussing here call Duval Street home, as it boasts many famous Key West restaurants, attractions, and shops. You can expect crowds day and night along Duval Street, and the nightlife there is outstanding. Live music and street performers make the experience even more special.
2. Meander Around Mallory Square
Mallory Square is an iconic place in Key West, which sits south of Duval Street. The ample space sits on a historic waterfront area of Key West, and you’ll find countless dining and shopping options equipped with souvenirs.
Watching the sunset at Mallory Square is a must when you’re in Key West. Just be prepared to share the view with hundreds of others vying for a good viewpoint. Once the sun goes down, Mallory Square comes to life with free live street performances called the Sunset Celebration, some of which have adult content.
3. Explore Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Fort Zachary Taylor is a state park that predates the Civil War. It’s a budget-friendly thing to do in Key West, given that you pay per vehicle instead of per person. History lovers will appreciate the brick paths that lead you through cannons and gun ports. You can hire a tour guide for more historical context.
Fort Zachary also offers a wonderful respite for relaxing on the beach, swimming in crystal clear water, snorkeling, and several other water sports.
4. Walk Through Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is anything but dry—the only way to arrive at this 100-square-mile park is via boat or seaplane. The park comprises seven islands and is world-renown for the picturesque Fort Jefferson, a former prison during the civil war.
During your day trip to Dry Tortugas, you can take a guided tour of Fort Jefferson, walk pristine beaches, snorkel with colorful fish, and relax in the sun.
5. Stand at America’s Southernmost Point
No trip to Key West is complete without visiting the Southernmost Point, a buoy on the shore that represents the southernmost part of the continental United States. The buoy sits at the end of Old Town Key West surrounded by historic homes and architecture as well as several of Key West’s best bars and restaurants. If you’re hoping to snap a photo of yourself next to the buoy without eating into too much of your day, definitely plan on arriving there at dawn since it gets really crowded at sunset.
A common misconception of non-locals is that you can see Cuba from the Southernmost Point. Unfortunately, you’d need a really big set of binoculars to do that since it’s impossible to see farther than 16 miles on the water anywhere in the world due to the curvature of the earth.
6. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Ernest Hemingway is arguably Key West’s most famous resident and the museum that was once his home is one of Key West’s most popular places to visit. You also may not think of visiting a museum to see real-life six-toed cats, but it’s a great way to coax the non-history buff to go here. Legend has it that Hemingway received a six-toed cat from a captain of a ship, and today many of this cat’s six-toed descendants still wander the museum’s property.
Aside from cats, what makes the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum a must-visit is that you’ll get to explore the actual place where one of America’s greatest authors wrote 70% of his work.
7. Snorkel With Tropical Fish
Whether you bring your own gear or rent from one of the many dive and snorkel shops on the island, Key West is one of the best and only places in the continental U.S. to discover coral reefs and see colorful tropical fish. Some of the best locations to do so include:
You can also sign up for a boat tour that will take you to snorkeling spots away from mainland Key West and in particular out to the coral barrier reef 7-miles offshore which is the third longest in the world. If you love the water and have never been to the tropics before, take at least one snorkel boat trip since the reefs are in better shape offshore because they receive less human traffic.
8. Dive To See the Vandenberg
The Vandenberg is a scuttled former U.S. Navy ship that scientists intentionally sunk in 2009 to purposefully help to create an artificial coral reef to give fish and other marine life a place to thrive and new coral the opportunity to grow.
Nowadays, it’s a favorite spot for both experienced and novice scuba divers, as there are approximately ten stories of ship structure to explore. At its greatest depth, the Vandenberg sits 150 feet underwater off the coast of Key West and is considered one of the best wreck dives in the Florida Keys.
9. Tour the Harry S. Truman Little White House
The Harry S. Truman Little White House was the winter haven for former President Truman. Formerly, the house was part of the Key West Naval Station. But when Truman fell ill in 1946, his doctor prescribed him a warm vacation getaway.
He loved his time there so much that he started visiting more frequently, realizing that he could turn any place into the White House as long as he worked there. Nowadays, you can take a guided tour through Truman’s former home.
10. Take a Sunset Cruise
One of the most iconic things to do in Key West is to take a sunset cruise tour since there are 360-degree views of the sunset from almost everywhere on the water. There’s no shortage of tour agencies ready to book your trip, and you can choose from various sunset cruises, boat styles, and lengths of time to suit people of all ages, budgets, and interests.
Private charters, dinner cruises, and dolphin tours combined with watching the sunset are some of the many choices you’ll have. We encourage you to shop around to land the best price. And if you’re looking for an extra special trip, hiring an event planner is an excellent option.
11. Spend Time at the Key West Aquarium
The Key West Aquarium is one of the best things to do in Key West for families. Here you’ll learn about the hundreds of marine species native to the Key West area, the coral barrier reef, as well as marine conservation efforts to conserve it. When it opened its doors in 1935, the aquarium cost 15 cents for an adult ticket. Although you can’t snag such a deal there these days, the touch tank and educational programs make it well worth the visit, especially for young kids.
Some of the species you’ll encounter at the Key West Aquarium include sharks, stingrays, and dozens of different tropical fish. They even have animals such as iguanas and an American Alligator.
12. Kayak Through Mangroves
Mangroves play a vital role in Key West’s ecosystem, given that they offer shelter and food for marine and non-marine animals alike. They also help prevent coastal erosion.
By visiting Key West, you can enjoy exploring the mangroves in an eco-friendly way by renting kayaks. Because the mangroves protect you from wind and waves, you can expect a peaceful experience as you watch crabs climbing on the roots, fish swimming beside you, and birds flying overhead.
13. Admire the Audubon House and Tropical Gardens
Visiting the Audubon House and Tropical Gardens is a fantastic option if you want to travel back in time during your stay in Key West. You’ll get to wander through the rooms of this 1840s house, which was home to one of Key West’s most famous mariners, Captain John Huling Geiger.
You’ll feel the luxury the moment you step inside Geiger’s home since like many of Key West’s historic captains he earned a fortune from the shipwrecking industry. The tropical gardens are equally as jaw-dropping as the architecture, making you feel that you’re in a Caribbean oasis surrounded by orchids, palms, crotons, and colorful birds and butterflies.
14. Hop on a Bike
There are limited parking spots on Key West, and the fees are expensive, which makes exploring the island by bike an excellent option. Due to the island’s small size, a person of average fitness level can easily explore the entire island by bike.
You’ll encounter many racks around the town where you can store your bike—just be sure your bike rental company gives you a lock. If you’re traveling during the summer, bring lots of water, for the sun is strong.
15. Go on a Dolphin-watching Excursion
We’ll lead with this—seeing dolphins from the shore when walking along Key West’s coast is possible. But if you want a chance to see them closer, taking a dolphin boat tour is an excellent choice.
Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins are the most popular type of dolphin in Key West. Although no tour company can guarantee wild dolphin sightings, these mammals are accustomed to tourists, so it’s common for them to approach boats.
16. Observe Butterflies at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
The family-friendly Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is an exciting way to get up close to butterflies, many of which are native to Key West and the Florida Keys. If you get lucky, one of the hundreds of butterflies at the conservatory also might just land on you!
You’ll also get to admire tropical birds, including two flamingos. And don’t miss the opportunity to take home a real butterfly souvenir. If you drive, the left side of the building behind the garden has free parking.
17. Explore a Warship at the Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum
Visitors to Key West fascinated by maritime history will have an opportunity to geek out on the past by visiting the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham. The Ingham is the only ship today still afloat that’s received two U.S. Presidential Unit Citations for heroism.
You can tour the Ingham by heading to the Truman Waterfront near Truman’s winter White House. If you have young children that aren’t interested in visiting the ship, they can play at a multi-million dollar playground equipped with water slides.
18. Give Your Feet a Break on the Key West Trolley
Even though Key West is small, you can easily rack up 10,000 steps and more by crisscrossing the island as you visit all of the amazing places to see and visit. So buying a one or two-day pass on one of Key West’s hop-on-hop-off trolleys is one of the best things to do in the Conch Republic to spare your feet and save some time.
The trolley makes 13 stops at Key West’s most notable points of interest. You can get off at each stop or spend the day cruising around the trolley sightseeing. Best of all, the trolley has frequent departures, so you don’t have to crimp your sightseeing schedule around theirs.
19. Learn About the Florida Keys at the Eco-discovery Center
Depending on what you choose to do, a visit to Key West can do a number on your bank account, but it doesn’t have to. The Eco-Discovery Center is an excellent example of this. It’s an admission-free 6,000-square-foot facility that offers an in-depth way to learn about the plants and animals native to the Florida Keys and is great for both kids and adults.
During your visit to the Eco-Discovery Center, you can learn about coral reefs, shipwrecks, marine life, plants, endangered species, and the tracking tools scientists use to monitor the ocean’s health, and more. You can also observe live fish and other marine life in a 2,500-gallon reef tank and experience a mock version of Aquarius, the only underwater ocean laboratory in the world.
20. Gawk at the Buildings at Key West Bight Marina
Key West Bight is a place to wander the marina as your head swivels between admiring the architecture of old homes and looking at flashy modern boats docked at the port. It’s a place for tourists and locals alike to enjoy an afternoon stroll or a fine dining experience at one of the many restaurants.
Visiting the Key West Bight Marina is also an excellent place to go shopping or book the tour you’ve been meaning to arrange. It’s a bustling area and has been that way for almost 200 years, as the marina has been a central place for Key West’s economic survival.
21. Climb the Key West Lighthouse
The Key West Lighthouse formerly belonged to the U.S. Navy. Nowadays, visitors can climb up its 88-step staircase for stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, downtown Key West, and the rest of the Lower Florida Keys.
The Key West Lighthouse is open seven days a week. But don’t expect to climb to the top at sunset since the last admission is at 4:30 pm. You can also book discounted tickets online which will save you a little bit of money.
22. Partake in Water Sports
It should come as no surprise that visiting an island like Key West surrounded by the ocean offers the opportunity to experience water sports until you can’t take it anymore. In addition to booking a sunset boat tour or snorkeling or diving excursion, you can get your adrenaline pumping with dozens of other water sports including:
You can also rent a boat and spend a day on the water exploring Key West at your leisure on your own. Since there’s so much competition among water sports tour providers, you can often negotiate a good deal, especially if you want to book more than one tour.
23. Beach Yourself at Lagerheads
Lagerheads Beach is one of the best (and only) strips of sandy beach in Key West and Lagerheads Beach Bar is one of the best places on the island to find an excellent selection of food, drinks, snorkel gear, and more for a day of fun in the sun.
It’s common to encounter locals kicking back here with a drink under one of Lagerheads’ many shaded tables and chatting about island life. Best of all, since Lagerheads isn’t in the center of Key West’s most touristy attractions, it has relatively fewer crowds and it’s easier to get in.
24. Escape the Rain at Tropic Cinema
Rain keeps Key West the lush and tropical island oasis that visitors and locals love, so you should have some indoor backups during your time here. Tropic Cinema is an excellent option, as it’s an independent cinema that features a combination of Hollywood blockbusters as well as international indy films.
There’s no mistaking this cinema for the cineplex-style movie theater you’ve been to in the past; it has an Art Deco marquee flair. You’ll also encounter a Marilyn Monroe sculpture and Key West’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Don’t miss out on the chance to purchase popcorn at Tropic Cinema, which is famous on the island.
25. See Artifacts at the Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Key West is legendary for pirates, shipwrecks, and underwater treasure hunters so the Shipwreck Treasure Museum is a fun way to get your kids interested in maritime history and the ocean. In addition to exploring the museum with real artifacts collected from shipwrecks, you can climb up to the Captain’s Observatory and see how captains used to spot cargo ships.
The museum does an excellent job of narrating thrilling true stories about the mariners who risked their lives to collect treasure buried at the bottom of the ocean around Key West before advanced, modern scuba diving and underwater sonar equipment existed.
26. Partake in the Party at Fantasy Fest
If you’re looking for some adult fun, Fantasy Fest is a classic Key West festival that occurs for ten days every October. It was started in 1979 by “Conchs” (locals born in Key West) and is now one of the most anticipated annual events on the island. It’s also an excellent opportunity for locals to rent out their homes through a vacation rental management company.
Fantasy Fest is a bit like a week-long Halloween party for adults. People dress up in elaborate costumes and makeup, partaking in parades and parties that seem to run 24/7. One of the biggest highlights during Fantasy Fest is the Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade, which gives Superbowl ads a run for their money.
27. Learn About Cuban History at the San Carlos Institute
The San Carlos Institute is a looker from the outside with its tasteful architecture, and inside it holds a trove of Conch Republic history. Started in 1871 by Cubans exiled in Key West, it was once one of the foundations of Cuba’s independence movement.
Visitors to the San Carlos Institute can browse through a museum, art gallery, and library and there’s also a theater and school. The San Carlos Institute is an excellent place for people wanting to have a deeper understanding of Cuban history as it relates to Key West and the close connection between the two islands.
28. Visit the Oldest Eatery in the Florida Keys
Pepe’s Cafe is Key West’s local secret that’s no longer a secret. The restaurant opened its doors in 1909, making it the oldest restaurant operating in the Florida Keys. It’s hard not to fall in love with Pepe’s as you dine outside in an environment that will take you back in time to old Florida life.
One of the best things to do in Key West when your feet are tired from exploring is to eat—and Pepe is one of the best and most historic places on the island to do this. They bake their own bread, shuck their oysters in-house, and all of their salad dressings are handmade.
29. Learn About Sea Turtles at the Turtle Museum
The Turtle Museum is a small but charming opportunity for kids and adults to learn about the endangered sea turtles that are native to the Florida Keys. There’s no entrance fee to visit and you’ll learn the fascinating background of how sea turtles lay eggs, migrate, and survive in the ocean environment, as well as see some actual sea turtle bones up close.
The Turtle Museum also offers kid-friendly activities to keep younger visitors engaged. By the time you leave the Turtle Museum, you’ll be ready to protect these majestic sea creatures that have become so vulnerable in the Florida Keys and elsewhere around the globe.
30. Grab a Drink at Sloppy Joes
If you only have one chance to visit a taproom in Key West, make it Sloppy Joes. The beloved bar on Duval Street established itself on the day that the U.S. government repealed prohibition. At the time, it was a speakeasy. Now, it’s a favorite spot for tourists and locals to get their fill of alcohol.
And, yes, you can buy an infamous sloppy joe sandwich from Sloppy Joes. The no-frill ingredients of ground beef, tomato sauce, onions, and peppers might sound simple, but it’s the go-to order for many people visiting this bar. If sloppy joes aren’t your thing, Sloppy Joes offers an extensive menu of other food, including their famous key lime pie.
31. Go Back in Time to the Oldest House Museum
There’s no trick to this place’s name; the Oldest House Museum is the oldest house in Key West and claims the title of the oldest house in South Florida, built in 1829.
Some people prefer to admire the Oldest House Museum from the outside, as you’ll pass it walking down Duval Street. But if you love history, you’ll want to give this museum a tour. It contains the oldest Cook House remaining in South Florida and tells the amazing story of the many generations of people who have occupied the home over the years.
Conclusion
We’re confident you’ll have a fantastic vacation since there are so many fun things to do in Key West. However, as some departing advice, note that only one road leads to Key West from the continental U.S.
So, if you drive there, pack some snacks and a flexible mindset in case an accident on the road delays your arrival. We guarantee the activities in Key West will make it worth the wait.
It’s s’more season. What better way to satisfy that outdoors-itch than by glamping it up next to an oh-so-cozy fire pit with a view? Check out these toasty terrains you should consider booking for your next weekend getaway.
Moonshine – Coachella Valley, CA
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A real hole-in-one Coachella Valley getaway. This home in La Quinta, CA is a great getaway for those looking to unwind in style. Situated right in the heart of the PGA West Golf Course, Moonshine is ideal for those looking to make their vacay a true winner. Spend the day on the golf course, or trot down to Lake Cahuilla Equestrian & Group Camp. For a more relaxing day, find yourself perched up poolside. When the sun goes down, enjoy this beautiful fire pit, perfect for sipping cocktails as the sun sets.
Holly – Breckenridge, CO
For us, the best way to end a day of hitting the slopes is sitting with a hot toddy by a fireplace. But that’s just us. Take that experience to the next level by staying at Holly – a blissful Breckenridge stay situated right at the foot of the mountains, and just a short drive from the Breckenridge Ski Resort and Vail Pass Path. Keep the party going by bringing your toddies to the hot tub – and that’s what we call an elevated vacation night.
Jackrabbit Ridge – Joshua Tree, CA
One thing about Jackrabbit Ridge – it comes with plenty to do and plenty of room. When you’re not cozied up by the fire pit or soaking in the pool with the 9 other guests this stay can accommodate, feel free to adventure off to Joshua Tree National Park or Hawks Landing Golf Course. End the night with a night swim, and you’ve officially hit all your vacation must-haves.
Pioneer – Powell Butte, Central OR
Talk about a view.Pioneer is an exceptional ranch-style home located within the Brasada Ranch community. This home’s elegant fire pit is situated on an expansive patio, complete with plenty of space for you and 9 of your friends. When you’re ready to hit the road and explore, Bend is only a short drive away and is home to tons of famous breweries and bites. Adventure seekers: grab your skis and feel for yourself Oregon’s best powder on the infamous Mt. Bachelor.
Few things get us more excited than a celebration, so we’ve designed our homes to accommodate yours. Group-friendly, fully-equipped, and downright fun, Avantstay properties are the perfect place to host your next occasion. Here’s why.
1. We have room for everyone, even the dog.
From charming cabins in the mountains to equestrian estates in wine country, our vacation homes accommodate groups large and small. Find the right fit by entering the number of lucky guests into the search feature on our site. Then, browse through a diverse selection of properties that will bring your vision to life. Think 20+ acre ranches featuring private lakes, horse stables, and volleyball courts. And since no vacation is complete without your best friend, we offer a handful of pet-friendly homes so no one gets left behind.
2. There’s plenty of space to stay the night.
Sometimes the party is so fun, you just don’t want to leave. Thankfully, our homes have enough bedrooms so your guests can stay the night. This is super convenient if you’re hosting a destination wedding, multi-day event, or if your party is simply looking to…party (responsibly).
Event Spotlight: Camp Poosh
We loved hosting Camp Poosh by Poosh, which saw several influencers come together for a camp-themed event for Kourtney Kardashian’s lifestyle brand at our home Buena Vista in Coachella Valley. There were a variety of interactive stations, including archery and bracelet-making, for guests to enjoy and many of them stayed at the property overnight.
3. Endless amenities & decked-out spaces.
Our award-winning design team carefully outfits each of our homes with upscale features, games, and amenities to take your vacation to the next level. Walk into a stocked chef’s kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances, challenge friends to a game of billiards or ping pong, dive onto the couch in your home theater, and gather around the oversized firepit with a cocktail from the wet bar in hand. This is the good life and it’s also very photo-friendly.
4. Our spaces are customizable to your event.
Planning an event can be overwhelming, especially when it involves travel. Luckily, we have a whole team dedicated to assisting you throughout the process so you don’t have to stress. Your complimentary retreat coordinator can work with you to put together a schedule involving fun activities, such as wine tastings in town, hot air balloon rides on the lawn, and private chef dinners at home. We have close relationships with vendors in the area so you’ll get the best prices on everything. Your retreat coordinator can also set up decorations, stock the fridge, and make pretty much anything you need happen.
Event Spotlights:
Birthday Parties
Whether you’re celebrating a 1st birthday, 70th birthday, or anything in between (pet parties, too!), our team can help make the day extra memorable for you and your friends.
Proposals
Photo Credit: Danielle Determan
Looking to pop the question? Our homes are the perfect backdrop and our team can help make the event as special as possible.
Let’s face it, there are a million reasons to host a celebration at an AvantStay home but we’ll cap it off at 4 for now! We recommend booking one of our homes as far out in advance as possible. Also, make sure to download our mobile app which will allow you to add special services, including fridge-stocking & in-home massages, to your experience. Have questions? Connect with our events team now!
Key West, the westernmost of the Florida Keys islands, is an amazing vacation destination with beautiful beaches between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. The white sands, palm trees, coral reefs, water sports rentals, beautiful sunrises, and sparkling blue water make Key West a great place to relax.
Key West can make for an exciting stop on a trip to Florida, as it is easy to travel to from places like Fort Jefferson, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. It is a popular travel destination, so make sure you plan your trip early, especially if you want to visit during the summer months.
Since Key West is an island, it is surrounded by sand and ocean. With so many options of beaches to choose from, it is sometimes hard to know which ones are the best, even if you’re a local of the area.
So, we’ll give you the 7 best Key West beaches to make your stay as relaxing and fun as possible. The best beaches have everything, from nature to history, to clear, blue waters that you won’t be able to help but jump into.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic Park beach
State park beaches are some of the best to visit because they have high standards of maintenance. States often try to protect their nature, scenery, and wildlife, and Fort Zachary Taylor Historic Park beach is no exception.
This beach is a great place to relax and lay in the sun, but it also provides guests with the possibility of practicing water sports like swimming and snorkeling. There is lots of well-preserved coral at this beach, so it is ideal for those who enjoy looking at ocean wildlife.
If you get hungry during your beach day, you can always bring food for a picnic, but the beach also has food available for purchase. You can also rent a hut for a day if you prefer a private place to relax.
Be aware, though, that many parts of this beach are a bit rocky. So, it is best to be careful where you decide to place your things. It is also best to wear shoes on many parts of the beach or to invest in water shoes if you plan on swimming in the ocean.
This beach is also an ideal location for history buffs. Fort Zachary Taylor is a great place to learn about Civil War history.
The beach is located close to Key West’s downtown area, Duval Street. It is also within walking distance of gorgeous condos that you can rent for the duration of your stay.
Since the beach is a state park, you will have to pay for entrance, but it is well worth it to enjoy the gorgeous ocean and preserve the wildlife there.
Smathers beach
Smathers beach is the largest beach in Key West. Although it is extremely popular and tends to attract crowds, the large size of the beach makes it, so there is plenty of space to spread out.
The beach is public, meaning you can access it for free. You may have to pay for other things, like parking, paddle boards, umbrellas, and food.
Smathers beach is a typical sandy beach, perfect for building sandcastles and relaxing in the sun. The water is clear and shallow, so it’s the perfect place to bring the whole family to swim and look at sea creatures that might come near the shore.
The scenery is gorgeous, and it is exactly what you would expect from a Florida beach. The sand is soft, the water is crystal clear, and palm trees are always swaying in the breeze. If you’re looking for a tropical getaway, Smathers beach is perfect for you.
Because Smathers beach is so large, it is easy to book accommodations that are close to it. Many homes in Key West are located right next to this beach, and many are available as vacation rentals.
Higgs Memorial beach park
Higgs Memorial beach park is more than a gorgeous beach. The park also includes a dog park, pier, restaurant, and historic site.
This is another white sand Key West beach with crystal clear waters, so it’s perfect for swimming and jet skiing. If you like to play sports, you can usually find a beach volleyball game on the sand. Or, if sports aren’t your thing, soak up the sun and sit at the picnic tables.
Higgs beach itself is public, and parking is free, so you can make enjoying your day there inexpensive. If you want to splurge a little bit, there is a sit-down restaurant on-site, so you can enjoy a little break from the sand if you desire.
Located close to the beach area are monuments that memorialize many enslaved African Americans buried in the cemetery near the site.
This larger beach and park is also an ideal place to anchor yourself. Many see it as their primary destination on a trip to Key West, so you may desire to stay near the beach to make sure you see all it has to offer.
Simonton beach
Simonton beach is a smaller beach near Mallory Square and isn’t as popular as some of the other ones on this list. However, that may work in your favor. There tend to be fewer crowds here than at some of the more well-known beaches.
While most of Key West’s beaches are located on its south shore, this one is located on the northwest side of the island. So, if you’re looking to explore more of Key West’s natural beaches, this beach is great to try.
This beach is sandy with a few rocks, and the water is clear, making the beach-going experience very relaxing. There is no need to worry about seaweed and trash here.
The only downside to such a secluded beach is that you have to be extra careful when swimming, as fewer people are around to assist with emergencies.
There is a pier with restaurants nearby, so you have plenty of food options if you get hungry while taking a swim at this hidden gem.
Dog beach
If you enjoy bringing your furry friends with you on vacation, Dog beach is the perfect place for you. Dogs have the run of this beach, so they are free to run around and frolic in the waves. Owners are welcome to do the same.
The beach has plenty of shady areas where you and your pup can cool off on warm days. There’s also a restaurant very close to the beach. So, you can stop for a bite to eat after letting your dog run around.
This beach is small and in a more secluded area, so it can be a bit difficult to find. If you’re ever having trouble finding the location, other dog owners can help guide you.
It’s important to note that this beach is very much a dog beach. There will be lots of pups running around, so those without canine companions may not find the area enjoyable.
County beach
If you’re looking for smaller beaches, County beach may be the perfect stop for your trip. Like Simonton beach and Rest beach, this beach is another hidden gem. Like many of the beaches on this list, it is a public beach, so you won’t have to pay for a more private experience.
County beach is close to Rest beach and Higgs Memorial beach but is the least known of the three. So, if you find that the other two become too crowded, County beach is the perfect place to dodge the multitudes of visitors.
You can sit in your beach chair and enjoy the soft sand and views of gorgeous palm trees and water while relaxing away from the crowds.
South Beach
South beach is most famous for being the place where Tennessee Williams swam every day. It’s also the smallest beach in Key West and the southernmost beach in the continental United States.
It’s located at the end of Duval Street and very close to the city center. There’s a cafe nearby where you can grab some food or walk a little further and pick one of the seafood restaurants since coolers aren’t allowed.
Chairs are available to rent, but there aren’t any public restrooms.
Bahia Honda state park
You have access to much more than a beach at Bahia Honda State Park. The activities available are endless, such as boating, snorkeling, bird watching, kayaking, yoga, swimming, or paddling. So you certainly won’t be bored, and there’s something for everyone.
The state park is equipped for people with disabilities, and there are restaurants, public restrooms, and a shower station. Pets are allowed, and if you are a fan of RVs, you can park your vehicle here.
Bahia Honda is perfect for those who love the beach and nature and don’t enjoy just lying in a beach towel all day.
Final thoughts
Hopefully, knowing about the many beautiful beaches in Key West has made you excited to plan your visit to the beautiful island. Or, if you’re a local, we hope we have given you some new beaches to try out on a day trip.
Whether you’re looking to see nature, want to go parasailing, want to explore the nature trails, want to have fun splashing around in the water, or want to lay out on soft sand, the beaches of Key West have it all. There is truly something for every beach lover on the island.
So, you’re in search of a vacation rental manager? Whether this is the first vacation home that you want to list as a short-term rental, or you’re looking for a new company to manage your fleet of vacation properties, our guide will help you make an informed, stress-free decision. We’ve compiled all the questions you should ask when wondering how to choose a vacation rental management company. Let’s dive in.
In this guide we’ll answer:
How do other short-term rentals perform in my market?
What are vacation rental management fees & contract terms?
What services are included in my contract?
How do you advertise my home?
How large is your rental portfolio?
How do I know my home will be in good hands?
Why should I partner with a vacation rental management company?
How do other short-term rentals perform in my market?
A great vacation rental manager should be an expert in all aspects of your local market. Be sure to ask them about the other types of vacation rentals in your area and their rates, seasonal trends, and local regulations.
Unlike traditional management companies, which use simple on and off-season pricing, we use our proprietary dynamic pricing model that leverages 75 to 150 pricing “seasons.” These seasons capture and optimize revenue based on occupancy, day of the week, seasonal fluctuations, holidays, and market events.
What are vacation rental management fees & contract terms?
Short-term rental management companies can charge you anything from 12-50% of your rental income. While a lower management fee with higher promised profits sounds great, make sure you know exactly what services are included with your contract so you don’t end up breaking even. If your budget allows it, consider paying above-average management fees in return for services that will wow your guests, boost your ratings, and ultimately drive more revenue.
Also, ask about the terms and conditions of your contract. Can you end your contract early if the company isn’t performing well or isn’t delivering on the promised services? Know your outs and any opportunities for negotiation.
When it comes to contracts, one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why we offer customizable programs that work for you. Our flexible management options let you choose what’s right for you and your home. Select between our Master Lease and Vacation Rental Management agreements:
Master Lease
We pay you a guaranteed monthly rent in exchange for leasing your vacation property to AvantStay. The amount is a fixed, previously agreed-upon monthly rent that you receive regardless of season or how many bookings we make.
Vacation Rental Management
We earn a percentage of the revenue we bring in and pay you a monthly revenue share. The amount varies, depending on the season and guest demand, with a potential for higher profit during high-demand periods.
What services are included in my contract?
Management fees and contracts should help you deliver an exceptional experience for your guests. When vetting vacation rental managers, ask what is and isn’t included in your contract. Services like marketing, interior design, photography, listing and pricing your home, managing reservations, and home maintenancef are all worth investing in to ultimately maximize your revenue. Consider partnering with a full-service company, like AvantStay, that can deliver these services.
How do you advertise my home?
Once your home listing is live, the approach any vacation rental manager takes to advertising and distribution is key to your success and can make the difference between getting plenty of bookings or getting overlooked.
Ask where they plan to advertise your home, how many bookings come from their site, what other listing sites they partner with (known as OTAs or Online Travel Agencies), how they drive positive guest reviews, and other services they provide like photography or search engine marketing. On average, vacation rental companies that manage over 1,000 properties only list on five platforms, so be sure to vet carefully.
With AvantStay, our powerful distribution capabilities are included in your management agreement. 40% of bookings come directly from our site, but we also optimize each listing across more than 60 distribution channels, including Airbnb, VRBO, La Cure, LVH, TripAdvisor, Expedia, Booking.com, and Homes & Villas by Marriott International.
How large is your rental portfolio?
When inquiring about a vacation rental manager’s portfolio, it’s important to gauge two things: does a large portfolio mean they’re successful and maintain good relationships with homeowners, and how do they scale their operations? Ask if they can provide owner testimonials, case studies, or even put you in touch with a current homeowner to see if their management is a good fit for you.
A good vacation rental manager will scale their operations to ensure all properties receive top-notch care. Ask about the ratio of staff to rental properties in your area. At AvantStay, we have one of the lowest homes-to-employee ratios in the industry, meaning for every home in our collection, we have several employees on the ground and at our headquarters that can give you their full attention.
How do I know my home will be in good hands?
Are you worried about noise complaints from your neighbors? Or wonder who will bring guests fresh linens if requested mid-stay? Be sure to ask potential management companies about maintenance, security, and guest and owner support services offered.
To give you peace of mind, we manage inquiries, vet every guest, and take care of their every need during their stay. Our local operations team manages the maintenance, upkeep, and surveillance, while our housekeeping team professionally cleans your home after every stay in adherence with our premium and CDC-grade cleaning standards. In addition, we provide and install home devices such as smart locks, noise sensors, doorbell cameras, and more, compliments of AvantStay.
Why should I partner with a vacation rental management company?
A full-service vacation rental management company should create a stress-free experience for you. 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. Unlock your vacation rental’s full value and get started with our team today.
Are you a foodie searching for the best Fort Myers restaurants? We’ve created a list of the top places to eat in the Fort Myers area just for you.
Fort Myers is a city filled with delicious restaurants and the food scene is fresh, authentic, and totally tasty. Make your trip memorable by sampling the best dishes from the Gulf Coast, from spicy Cajun fried shrimp to decadent po’boy sandwiches.
This list isn’t just for tourists—locals will enjoy it too! We’ll reveal Fort Myers restaurants that are hidden gems throughout the city. Wherever you decide to stop and grab a bite, you’ll love the hearty seafood and regional recipes.
Farmer’s Market
Farmer’s Market is a casual restaurant with Southern cuisine. It’s a great place to go for a hearty Florida-style lunch or to stop by and enjoy a quick dessert and coffee.
The restaurant is in the Southward Village neighborhood, near Dunbar Park, and the spot is just slightly south of the downtown area. It has an authentic southwest Florida feel. This restaurant is a local institution you won’t want to miss.
Farmer’s Market is the oldest restaurant in the county and the menu is tried and true. You can try a fried green tomato and bacon club sandwich or go for a fried chicken plate with homemade bread.
Bonefish Grill
Bonefish Grill is among the best restaurants in the Fort Myers area. It’s a seafood joint with a casual atmosphere, and you’ll feel right at home in this cozy space.
The restaurant is in South Fort Myers, near Cape Coral. It has a perfect location if you’re touring Lakes Park or visiting the Fort Myers beach on a sunny day.
Cool off with a chilled housemade cocktail or try a house wine during happy hour. The entrees are fun and innovative, ranging from calamari with Asian sauce to shrimp tacos with lime cream. The restaurant also offers daily specials, so check their online specials menu to see what’s on for that day.
The Lodge
The Lodge is a funky dining experience with a rustic atmosphere. The space feels like a ski lodge in the mountains even though it’s a Fort Myers restaurant! You can relax with cozy furniture, fake views of the mountains, and hearty food. The ambiance will make you forget the heat outside when you escape for some sports TV.
Their primary cuisine is BBQ with bar food bites. You can order bottomless mac and cheese, pulled pork sandwiches, and Texas-style beef brisket. Pour beers yourself from the restaurant’s taps, or have the staff whip up a fancy cocktail like the Dark and Stormy rum. There’s no better way to beat the heat!
Capone’s Coal-Fired Pizza
Capone’s Coal Fired Pizza is a jazz-themed Italian restaurant in the heart of downtown Fort Myers. It has a prohibition-era vibe, making you feel as though you’ve stepped into 1920s Chicago.
The restaurant has historical treasures decorating the walls, from authentic 1920s and 1930s clothing to newspaper clippings. The immersive pizzeria is quite popular, so you might consider booking a reservation ahead of time.
Coal-fired pizza isn’t the only thing on the menu. Try classy Italian eats like a meatball sub or fettuccine alfredo. If you want something with a southern influence, consider the Cajun chicken pasta with scallions and cream sauce.
KJ’s Steakhouse
KJ’s Steakhouse is a cheerful restaurant in the Page Park area. It has burgers, beer, steaks, and more, and the spot is ideal for a fun night out.
The restaurant has a secret spice blend and a unique cooking process that makes their steaks one-of-a-kind. Some dishes have a southern touch, like the chicken and waffles plate and the pecan chicken salad, and others draw inspiration from Asian and coastal flavors.
You can check out the western burger with BBQ sauce, bacon, and cheddar, or try an ahi tuna salad. Don’t forget a triple chocolate brownie for dessert!
CIBO
Head to Cape Coral and check out CIBO, an upscale Italian restaurant with modern cuisine. It’s on Camelot Dr, near the golf club, and you can sit down with a plate of contemporary Italian eats after a day at the Cape Coral beach.
If you’re staying at one of our waterfront locations in Cape Coral, this restaurant is just across the bridge. You can order Italian classics like traditional ravioli or penne sausage with chicken. Try angel hair pasta with mushrooms for a vegan option.
CIBO isn’t just an Italian eatery. It’s also one of the best seafood restaurants in the area. Try charred octopus, local little neck clams, and buttery scallops with basil oil.
The Veranda
The Veranda is an upscale restaurant with a refined Southern flair. It has an intimate, dimly-lit atmosphere, and the spot is ideal for couples or small groups of friends.
This Fort Myers staple has been in the city for decades, and locals and tourists love it. The restaurant is in a historic 1900s-era building and the decor is vintage and cozy. There’s a piano bar, a courtyard garden, and an outstanding wine menu. Most people dress in formal attire, and we recommend calling in a reservation.
Appetizers include southern grit cakes, grilled mushrooms, and pan-seared scallops. Try a New York strip steak off the entrée menu or sample seafood choices like sea bass and salmon.
Clam Bake
If you’re looking for New England seafood in Fort Myers, The Clam Bake might be perfect for you. It’s a laidback seafood house with a welcoming atmosphere and the recipes are all authentic New England coastal foods.
This spot is popular with tourists but locals love it too, and the restaurant is fun for a quick bite after a long day touring the city or hanging out at the beach. It’s close to many of our properties, including the Seahorse and the White Tiger.
The lobster roll is a favorite and you can’t go wrong with fried shrimp. The food and welcoming staff create a fantastic atmosphere, and if you’re a New England Patriots fan, you can watch the games on TV.
Izzy’s Fish and Oyster
Head downtown to Izzy’s Fish and Oyster for a fine dining seafood experience. It’s one of the only spots in town with a raw bar and you can sample oysters, scallops, grouper, and more at this laidback spot.
The restaurant has a modern environment and trendy global menu items, like Spanish octopus, Caribbean coconut rice with pineapple, and Greek Mahi Mahi. Or, go for a Southern classic and try a shrimp po’boy. Don’t forget to add a side of garlic-whipped potatoes!
The Krab Hut
The Krab Hut is a trendy little restaurant with casual vibes. It serves fried southern seafood, chicken, and salads. There are plenty of vegetarian options and kid-friendly meals, so everyone in your group will be satisfied.
The restaurant is in the southern area of Fort Myers, and it’s great for a quick takeout pickup. It has all the best dishes from the Gulf Coast, and you can try spicy Cajun or creamy southern menu items.
Order chicken wings by the piece or get a big crab boil to share. Try a dinner basket and you can choose your favorite meats and seafood, including scallops, flounder, and catfish.
McGregor Cafe
McGregor Cafe is a cute little bistro south of the Fort Myers Country Club. It’s on McGregor Blvd and serves tasty American food with a southern flair.
The restaurant lets you enjoy the beautiful Florida weather with an outdoor patio and you can have a draft beer underneath the shady trees. The brunch menu is a local favorite—we recommend the quiche of the day with a side of grits. Also, try a French dip sandwich with roast beef and truffle fries.
Bruno’s of Brooklyn
Bruno’s of Brooklyn brings a New York City vibe to Fort Myers. It’s an Italian restaurant that focuses on the cuisine of Sicily, and the menu ranges from vodka penne to eggplant parmesan. The meatball lasagna comes from a 70-year-old family recipe, and the dish has a hearty serving of mozzarella.
The small space has a cozy atmosphere and welcoming staff, making Bruno’s of Brooklyn an intimate and formal dining experience. If you have any gluten-free members of your group, ask the team and they’ll be happy to help.
Coya’s Artisanal Ice Cream
A day in sunny Fort Myers wouldn’t be complete without going out for ice cream! Coya’s Artisanal Ice Cream is the best in the city, with trendy flavors, unique toppings, and original recipes. It has Mexican cuisine desserts and this family-owned spot brings an authentic touch to the space.
The fresh ingredients at Coya’s include strawberries, kiwi, mangos, and coconut, and you can make your ice cream any way you like it. Try their housemade cookies if you’re not a fan of ice cream.
Mud Bugs Cajun Kitchen
Mud Bugs Cajun Kitchen is a fun restaurant with cheerful energy. It’s on Sanibel Island, not far from Estero, and the little eatery is a quick drive from our Coco Mango property.
The restaurant is a great place to enjoy live music. Head up to the top level to listen to local bands, or stay below for a quieter environment.
The outdoor bar features Cajun Bloody Marys, domestic beers, and mojitos. The baked scallops with garlic butter are fantastic, and we also recommend the blackened grouper fish.
Osteria Celli
If you like traditional Italian food, Osteria Celli might be for you. It’s a rustic spot with an open kitchen, and you can watch the chefs cook your food while you sit at the bar.
Osteria Celli uses classic Italian recipes that go back generations. Try a cozy pasta dish, potato gnocchi, or a light chicken pate. We recommend finishing your evening with a fluffy tiramisu and an Italian espresso.
King’s Kitchen and Bar
King’s Kitchen and Bar is a casual lunch restaurant in the heart of downtown Fort Myers. It’s funky and modern, and you’ll find Central American influences on classic dishes.
The Caribbean-inspired fried green plantains are delicious, and so are the hearty empanadas. For a light, refreshing dish, consider trying the Baja fish wrap or Cuban bowl with pico de gallo.
Oasis
Oasis is a no-frills American restaurant in downtown Fort Myers near Bennett Hart Park. The spot serves homey breakfast dishes, burgers, and seafood entrees.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, and pets are welcome on the outdoor patio. Order a fish and chips basket, a grilled cheeseburger, or a chicken tenders plate with coleslaw. There’s a fantastic kids’ menu for the little ones in your group, and they can choose from pancakes, chicken nuggets, and peanut butter sandwiches.
Ford’s Garage
Ford’s Garage is in the city’s bustling heart, near the Caloosahatchee riverfront. It specializes in drinks and you can choose from over 180 varieties of craft beer.
The restaurant is cozy and friendly with a real southern vibe. You can watch sports on the TV with friends, enjoy a drink, and admire the fun Ford car-themed decor.
Burgers are the main star at this relaxed eatery, and you’ll see nearly a dozen car-themed burgers on the menu. Try a High-Octane Burger with guacamole or a Model A Burger with applewood smoked bacon.
Check out the bar food menu for small bites like soft pretzels, firestone shrimp, pulled pork nachos, and more. Additionally, you can sample southern comfort food like homemade meatloaf or hand-battered chicken tenders.
Three Fishermen
For a casual spot right on the waterfront, check out Three Fishermen. It’s on the ground floor of the Best Western hotel, and it’s great for locals or anyone staying at our rental locations.
Enjoy a walk in beautiful North Shore Park before enjoying a seafood comfort meal at this cozy spot. It’s an open-air restaurant, so you can watch the waves and listen to gulls caw as you eat your meal.
The hush puppies are a southern classic you can’t miss, and we also recommend the crabmeat salad sandwich. Visit during happy hour to take advantage of the all-you-can-eat shrimp special.
Colleoni’s Italian Ristorante
Colleoni’s Italian Ristorante is a regional Italian restaurant near the McGregor area. It has a bistro feel with cafe menu items ranging from ciabatta sandwiches to smoked tomato bisque. The restaurant is inside a quaint little shopping area, and you can check out the local boutiques while waiting for a table.
Pair an Italian wine with your meal, or try a draft beer. We recommend a red wine with a plate of veal cutlets and a side of arugula salad.
Colleoni’s is famous for its excellent dessert menu. Try a Crema de Cogne, a decadent chocolate dish with almond biscuits and light, fluffy cream. Black bread pudding is another popular dish with notes of cream and chocolate.
Blanc
Blanc is an upscale restaurant in the McGregor neighborhood of Fort Myers. The global menu draws from French, Latin, and Asian cuisines, and you can sample everything from Waygu beef sliders to roasted garlic lamb.
The trendy restaurant won the Golden Spoon award in 2019, and the spot has been a staple for Fort Myers locals and tourists. You can order an Almost Entree plate to share with the whole table or get an assortment of shareable dishes.
Conclusion
Whether you’re visiting or local to Fort Myers, we guarantee you’ll enjoy these fantastic restaurants. The city is great for finding delicious dishes and there’s something for everyone, from classic Italian to casual crab boils.
If you’re staying at one of our top-rated Fort Myers properties, these restaurants are just a hop and a skip away. You can spend a day at the beach, tour historical sites downtown, or see one of the city’s iconic parks and finish at one of the best Fort Myers restaurants.
There’s no bad time to visit the Oregon Coast. From the beautiful summers to the quiet winters, it’s no wonder that we welcome so many visitors to our gorgeous region. If you’re planning your mid-year vacation, why not visit the Oregon Coast in May? With so many great events, mild weather, and beautiful homes from AvantStay, there are plenty of great reasons to start planning!
We’ve listed our favorite events on the Oregon Coast in May, but there’s plenty more to be discovered.
Visiting the Oregon Coast in May
The Oregon Coast weather in May tends to stay in the upper-50s to low-60s. Nighttime temperatures drop to the mid-to-upper-40s. Days can alternate between clear skies and Northwest liquid sunshine (otherwise known as rain showers). If you’re worried about being stuck inside, don’t be – there are normally enough sun breaks to get out to play on the beach and enjoy some sightseeing. Aside from the beautiful weather, May also brings an exciting lineup of festivals and activities so there’s no shortage of things to do. From tasting some of Oregon’s renowned wines to meet and greets with local authors, you’ll definitely want to set aside a weekend or two to visit Cannon Beach in May. Of course, don’t forget about Mother’s Day! Your mom is sure to feel extra special with a trip to the beach.
Spring Unveiling Arts Festival
Every year, the members of the Cannon Beach Gallery Group host the Spring Unveiling Arts Festival. During the weekend, typically the first in May, galleries around Cannon Beach display new works as well as host demonstrations and talks with their top artists. One of the highlights of the event is the receptions, where visitors can speak with the artists. You’ll also get to sample some delicious cuisine made by local restaurants – with menu items being inspired by the works of art from the festival. You may even get to hear some live music in the galleries. If you’re an art-lover, you won’t want to miss this great event!
Get Lit at the Beach
From wine to art to literature: there truly is an event for everyone along the Oregon Coast in May! Get Lit at the Beach is known as a gathering for readers. This festival also takes place in Cannon Beach, during the second-to-last weekend of May. The festival features author talks, book signings, and moderated q&a sessions. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or a voracious reader, you’ll love attending the events at Get Lit at the Beach!
Month-Wide Events
Enjoy Peak Oregon Coast Clamming
May is the start of clam season in Oregon, so it’s an excellent time to partake in one of the region’s most iconic traditions! Keep an eye on the tide charts. It looks like in 2019, there are going to be two weekends with minus tides. This is the best time for clamming, so guests staying with us for those weekends will have an easy time of it! Guests in our Rockaway Beach rental homes won’t have to search far for prime clamming spots. You’ll find plenty to enjoy right out the back door!
Oregon Wine Month
May is Oregon’s official state-wide Wine Month! There’s no better time for wine aficionados to visit. Many wineries hold special events during the month. These can range from classes in wine tasting to concerts. You may even find an art class or a movie night. Oregon’s wine scene is impressive, with over 500 wineries in the Willamette Valley. If you’re in town for Mother’s Day, swing by The Wine Shack in Cannon Beach for a special tasting! For more information about local wineries, including vineyards near the Coast, check out our blog detailing everything you need to know about wine country in Oregon!
Source: The Wine Shack
Stay with AvantStay
The first step to planning your trip to the Oregon Coast in May is to book a home with Starfish Vacation Rentals! We have an incredible selection of upscale homes along the Coast, from ocean view properties boasting beautiful views to pet-friendly rentals where the whole family can stay. Be sure to look at our guest services to further enhance your stay with us. From onsite massages to a dinner cooked by your own personal chef, we are happy to arrange extra touches to elevate your vacation to extraordinary. Check the full list of our rentals and book today! We look forward to having you.
Not all vacation homes are created equal, and at AvantStay, we know what makes a stay truly unforgettable. Whether it’s a jaw-dropping view, a pool that steals the show, or a game room that keeps the whole crew entertained, some homes just get it.
That’s why we created the AvantStay Awards—to spotlight the best of the best. From dreamy desert escapes to ski-in, ski-out chalets, we handpicked homes that go above and beyond in every category. Whether you’re planning a big group getaway, a romantic weekend, or an epic bachelorette trip, consider this your go-to list for booking the perfect stay.
So, what made the cut? Scroll on to see the winners.
Think warm days, starry nights, and landscapes that look straight out of a postcard. We picked homes with stunning desert views, private oases, and that perfect blend of indoor-outdoor living.
1. Roca Roja, Sedona, AZ
Roca Roja is a true desert oasis, blending luxury with Sedona’s iconic red rock landscape. Its expansive windows, seamless indoor-outdoor flow, and panoramic views create an immersive desert experience. A perfect fit for the Best Desert Home category, this stunning retreat offers al fresco dining, a fire pit for stargazing, and an unmatched connection to Arizona’s breathtaking terrain.
2. Julep, Scottsdale, AZ
Julep is a stunning blend of modern design and desert luxury, perfectly set against the breathtaking backdrop of Paradise Valley. Its expansive outdoor living space, complete with a fireplace, pool, and panoramic mountain views, creates an unparalleled oasis for relaxation and entertainment. Nominated for Best Desert Home, Julep captures the essence of high-end desert living with its seamless indoor-outdoor flow and top-tier amenities.
3. Moonshine, Coachella Valley, CA
Moonshine is the ultimate desert retreat, blending modern luxury with the stunning beauty of Coachella Valley. With panoramic mountain views, a poolside oasis, and top-tier entertainment spaces, it’s designed for relaxation and connection. A perfect fit for the Best Desert Home category, Moonshine embodies sophisticated desert living at its finest.
4. Asteroid, Joshua Tree
Asteroid is a bohemian-inspired desert retreat that perfectly captures the rugged beauty of Joshua Tree. With panoramic views, eclectic design, and a stargazing-ready fire pit, it offers an immersive high-desert experience. A top contender for Best Desert Home, Asteroid seamlessly blends style, nature, and adventure.
5. Villa Valentina, Palm Springs
Villa Valentina epitomizes luxury desert living with sleek modern design and breathtaking mountain views. Just minutes from Downtown Palm Springs, its private backyard oasis—featuring a pool, hot tub, and stylish lounge areas—makes it an entertainer’s dream. A perfect nominee for Best Desert Home, it seamlessly blends high-end design with the natural beauty of the desert.
6. Cathedral View, Sedona
Cathedral View is a stunning Sedona retreat with breathtaking Cathedral Rock views, seamlessly blending modern design with the desert’s natural beauty. A standout in the Best Desert Home category, it offers luxurious indoor-outdoor living, a stargazing hot tub, and an immersive connection to Sedona’s artistic spirit.
Best Wine Country Home
These homes are steps from world-class wineries and built for sipping. Expect vineyard views, chef-worthy kitchens, and dreamy patios.
1. Wilson Creek Manor, Temecula, CA
Wilson Creek Manor is the ultimate Wine Country retreat, offering luxurious suites, stunning vineyard views, and unmatched amenities in the heart of Temecula. A perfect fit for the Best Wine Country Home category, this estate blends elegance and entertainment with al fresco dining, a grand salon, and exclusive access to renowned wineries.
2. Belleza, Sonoma, CA
Perched atop the hills of Sonoma, Belleza is a modern masterpiece that perfectly embodies Wine Country luxury. With its striking architecture, infinity pool, and breathtaking vineyard views, this estate is a top contender for the Best Wine Country Home category. It offers seamless indoor-outdoor living, from its open-air grilling lounge to its elegant interiors designed for relaxation and connection.
3. Rancho de Robles, Paso Robles, CA
Rancho de Robles is a secluded vineyard retreat that perfectly captures the essence of Paso Robles Wine Country with its breathtaking views, elegant interiors, and private estate setting. A standout in the Best Wine Country Home category, this luxurious escape offers seamless indoor-outdoor living, a stunning pool, and direct access to on-property hiking trails, making it an idyllic destination for wine lovers and relaxation seekers alike.
4. Camila, Temecula
Camila is a breathtaking modern estate that defines luxury Wine Country living, offering panoramic views, stunning architecture, and resort-style amenities in the heart of Temecula. A perfect contender for the Best Wine Country Home category, this expansive retreat features a private pool, multiple al fresco dining spaces, and elegant interiors, making it an unforgettable destination for wine lovers and luxury seekers alike.
5. Grapevine, Sonoma
Grapevine is a private vineyard estate that embodies the charm and luxury of Temecula Wine Country, offering four acres of breathtaking scenery and resort-style amenities. A perfect fit for the Best Wine Country Home category, this stunning retreat features a pool, summer kitchen, and endless entertainment options, making it an unforgettable destination for relaxation and celebration.
6. Mayacama Manor, Santa Rosa
Mayacama Manor is a refined Wine Country retreat, seamlessly blending luxury and comfort with its private pool, hot tub, and elegant interiors. A top contender for the Best Wine Country Home category, this Sonoma escape offers a perfect setting for wine lovers to relax in style, just minutes from world-class vineyards and Michelin-starred dining.
Best Coastal Home
Salt air, ocean views, and easy beach access. We picked homes where you can wake up to the sound of waves and be on the sand in minutes.
1. Saratoga Vista, Whidbey Island, WA
Saratoga Vista is the ultimate coastal retreat, offering breathtaking 180-degree waterfront views, a secluded beach, and a serene hot tub under the stars. A perfect fit for the Best Coastal Home category, this Whidbey Island gem blends natural beauty with modern comfort, making it an idyllic escape for relaxation and wildlife watching by the sea.
2. 3108 Palm, Isle of Palms, SC
3108 Palm is the ultimate oceanfront escape, offering direct beach access, a private pool, and stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic. A top contender for the Best Coastal Home category, this Isle of Palms retreat seamlessly blends luxury and seaside serenity, with elegant outdoor living spaces, a firepit lounge, and a gourmet kitchen for the perfect waterfront getaway.
3. Endless Sumer, SD
Endless Summer is the ultimate bayfront retreat, offering panoramic water views, direct access to Pacific Beach, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. A perfect fit for the Best Coastal Home category, this stunning escape features retractable glass doors, a fire pit, and adventure-ready amenities like a kayak and boogie boards, making it an unforgettable seaside getaway.
4. Beach Haven, Fort Lauderdale
Beach Haven is the ultimate coastal retreat, offering breathtaking ocean views, a private infinity pool, and direct beach access just steps away. A top contender for the Best Coastal Home category, this Fort Lauderdale escape blends luxury and relaxation with spacious accommodations, al fresco dining, and an unbeatable beachfront location.
5. Port A Hideaway
Port A Hideaway is a charming blend of history and modern coastal living, offering a private pool, wrap-around deck, and prime location just blocks from the beach. A perfect contender for the Best Coastal Home category, this beautifully updated 1939 gem captures the essence of Port Aransas with its unique layout, vibrant outdoor spaces, and timeless seaside charm.
6. SeaGrove, Coastal OR
Seagrove is a serene coastal retreat nestled in the pines of Manzanita, offering stunning sea views, a spacious main house and guest house, and multiple outdoor gathering spaces. A perfect nominee for the Best Coastal Home category, this art-filled escape combines the beauty of Oregon’s rugged coastline with luxurious amenities, making it an ideal haven for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable seaside memories.
Best Urban Home
The ultimate city stays, chosen for their prime locations, sleek interiors, and proximity to the best restaurants, nightlife, and culture.
1. The Gilmore, Nashville
The Gilmore is the ultimate urban retreat, blending Mediterranean-inspired elegance with Nashville’s vibrant energy in the heart of 12 South. A perfect nominee for the Best Urban Home category, this full-service hotel offers sophisticated accommodations, curated experiences, and top-tier amenities, making it an unparalleled destination for luxury and convenience in Music City.
2. Henley, Austin, TX
Henley is the ultimate urban escape, offering breathtaking views of the Austin skyline, a private guest house, and a stunning backyard oasis with a luxe pool and expansive deck lounge. A standout for the Best Urban Home category, this stylish retreat blends modern design, top-tier amenities, and a prime location near SOCO, making it the perfect spot to experience the energy of Austin in luxury.
3. Doralee, Nashville, TN
Doralee is a stylish urban retreat that perfectly blends country charm with modern luxury, just minutes from Downtown Nashville and Music Row. A top contender for the Best Urban Home category, this multi-story escape features a rooftop terrace, chic interiors, and prime access to the city’s vibrant nightlife, making it the ultimate stay for music lovers and city explorers alike.
4. Moonlight Modern, SD
Moonlight Modern is the ultimate urban beach retreat, offering sleek contemporary design, resort-style amenities, and panoramic ocean views just steps from Moonlight Beach. A perfect fit for the Best Urban Home category, this stylish escape blends luxury and convenience with multiple outdoor living spaces, a private spa, and easy access to Encinitas’ vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment scene.
5. Ramsey, Austin
Ramsey is a stylish urban retreat in the heart of Austin, offering a seamless blend of relaxation and entertainment with a private pool, jacuzzi, fire pit, and outdoor games. A perfect contender for the Best Urban Home category, this contemporary escape provides easy access to the city’s iconic bars, restaurants, and live music scene, making it the ultimate spot to experience Austin in style.
6. Dona Teresa, LA
Dona Teresa is a breathtaking modern estate that perfectly captures the luxury and energy of Los Angeles, with panoramic city and mountain views, high-end interiors, and multiple outdoor living spaces. A top contender for the Best Urban Home category, this hillside retreat offers a private hot tub, an exercise room, and a movie and game den, making it the ultimate escape for experiencing LA in style.
Best Pool
If the pool is the star of the show, it made this list. Think resort-style pools, infinity edges, and the kind of lounging setups that make you want to stay all day.
1. Barton, Austin, TX
Barton is the ultimate poolside retreat, featuring a stunning baja shelf pool and hot tub with breathtaking hilltop views. A perfect nominee for the Best Pool category, this serene getaway invites guests to lounge in luxury, sip cocktails by the water, and enjoy unforgettable outdoor moments from sunrise to sunset.
2. Monarch, Destin, FL
Monarch is the ultimate poolside paradise, featuring a stunning Baja shelf pool, swim-up bar, and luxurious outdoor lounge spaces just minutes from the beach. A top contender for the Best Pool category, this coastal estate offers resort-style amenities, from a rooftop patio to a hot tub and game room, making it the perfect destination for relaxation and entertainment.
3. Paradise Pointe, Lake Norman
Paradise Pointe is the ultimate waterfront escape, featuring a stunning saltwater pool and spa with Travertine decking, a private dock, and breathtaking Lake Norman views. A perfect nominee for the Best Pool category, this luxurious retreat offers resort-style outdoor living, from the lakeside fire pit to the expansive wraparound deck, making it an unbeatable destination for relaxation and entertainment.
4. Dawson, Austin TX
Dawson is the ultimate poolside retreat, offering stunning Lake Travis views, an inviting pool, and a spacious deck perfect for al fresco dining and outdoor games. A top contender for the Best Pool category, this vibrant getaway blends scenic luxury with fun-filled amenities, making it an unbeatable spot for relaxation and entertainment.
5. Casa Palmera, Coachella
Casa Palmera is the ultimate poolside paradise, featuring a stunning swim-up bar, luxurious hot tub, and a sunken outdoor kitchen perfect for entertaining. A top contender for the Best Pool category, this Palm Springs oasis offers flawless indoor-outdoor living, waterfall features, and resort-style amenities, making it an unparalleled destination for relaxation and fun.
6. Sea Ridge, San Diego
Sea Ridge is the ultimate coastal retreat, featuring a stunning saltwater pool, hot tub, and breathtaking panoramic ocean views. A perfect nominee for the Best Pool category, this luxurious La Jolla escape offers seamless indoor-outdoor living, a built-in grill for al fresco dining, and a private oceanfront oasis for the ultimate relaxation experience.
Best View
Whether it’s mountains, city skylines, or endless ocean, these homes have jaw-dropping views from just about every angle.
Perched on a secluded bluff at the foot of Neahkahnie Mountain, this stunning mid-century retreat offers sweeping ocean views from nearly every room. A perfect nominee for the Best View category, this home provides breathtaking panoramas of the Pacific, a serene private setting, and multiple outdoor spaces designed for relaxation and reflection.
Perched above Puget Sound, this stunning retreat offers breathtaking 180-degree water views, where you can watch ships sail by and even spot whales from the expansive deck. A perfect nominee for the Best View category, this Whidbey Island escape seamlessly blends indoor comfort with the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, providing an unparalleled setting for relaxation and adventure.
3. Pioneer at Brasada, Central OR
Pioneer offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged Oregon landscape, making it a perfect nominee for the Best View category. Nestled within the Brasada Ranch community, this stunning retreat showcases sweeping vistas of the Cascade Mountains, providing an awe-inspiring backdrop for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.
4. Backyard Beach, Miramar Beach
Backyard Beach offers unparalleled, unobstructed ocean views, with Miramar Beach’s stunning white sands and blue waters quite literally in your backyard. A top contender for the Best View category, this beachfront retreat features multiple outdoor living spaces, a private hot tub overlooking the shore, and breathtaking sunsets right from your deck.
5. Among the Clouds – Asheville
Perched high in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Among the Clouds offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mt. Pisgah and the winding Blue Ridge Parkway. A perfect nominee for the Best View category, this serene retreat lets you soak in stunning mountain vistas from the hot tub, front porch rocking chairs, or fire pit, making every moment feel like you’re floating above the clouds.
6. Alaula, Oahu
Alaula offers breathtaking views of Mākaha’s lush mountains and pristine beaches, making it a perfect nominee for the Best View category. Whether you’re soaking up the Hawaiian sun in the spacious yard or admiring the scenic landscapes from nearby hikes, this island retreat immerses you in paradise at every turn.
Best Lake House
Private docks, cozy fire pits, and all the water toys. These homes were picked for their unbeatable lakefront locations and easy access to boating, swimming, and lounging.
1. Lakeview, Lake Tahoe, CA
Lakeview is the ultimate lakefront retreat, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and a wrap-around patio perfect for soaking in sunrises and sunsets. A top contender for the Best Lake House category, this stunning escape features high ceilings, rustic-modern finishes, and endless entertainment, making it the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure on the water.
2. Forget-Me-Not, Berkshires, MA
Forget-Me-Not is a stunning, modern lakefront retreat with breathtaking, unobstructed views of Lake Garfield, making it a perfect contender for the Best Lake House category. With a spacious deck, private hot tub, and direct shoreline access, this Berkshires getaway offers the ultimate blend of contemporary design, relaxation, and outdoor adventure.
3. Blue Heron Lodge, Lake Norman, NC
Blue Heron Lodge is the ultimate lakefront retreat, offering stunning views, direct lake access, and a wrap-around porch perfect for soaking in the serene surroundings. A top nominee for the Best Lake House category, this spacious getaway features a private dock, sports pool, hot tub, and endless entertainment options, making it an unforgettable destination for relaxation and adventure on Lake Norman.
4. West Shore Lake House
West Shore Lake House is a premier lakefront retreat, offering breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and year-round adventure just steps from the water. A top contender for the Best Lake House category, this stunning home features a spacious patio for al fresco dining, a cozy stone fireplace, and unbeatable access to both lake activities and nearby ski resorts, making it the perfect all-season getaway.
5. Sunny Pond, Berkshires
Sunny Pond is the ultimate lakeside retreat, offering a private pond with pedal boats, a dock, and a charming island accessible by bridge, making it a perfect nominee for the Best Lake House category. With sprawling outdoor spaces, catch-and-release fishing, and multiple cozy living areas, this Berkshires estate blends luxury and nature for an unforgettable waterfront getaway.
6. Shoreway Cove, Lake Norman
Shoreway Cove is the ultimate lakefront retreat, offering a private dock, stunning waterfront views, and a spacious patio with a pool and hot tub overlooking Lake Norman. A top contender for the Best Lake House category, this elegant escape blends luxury and recreation, with direct lake access for water sports, multiple outdoor lounging areas, and a beautifully designed interior for the perfect group getaway.
Most Unique Home
The ones that don’t fit into a box. These homes stand out for their architecture, design, or story—whether it’s a geodesic dome, a historic landmark, or something totally unexpected.
1. Buck Island, Hilton Head, SC
Buck Island is the ultimate private island retreat, offering an unparalleled level of exclusivity, adventure, and luxury just off the shores of Hilton Head. A perfect nominee for the Most Unique Home category, this one-of-a-kind estate features a tree-filled conservatory, panoramic waterfront views, and a 15-minute boat ride as the only way to access this secluded paradise, creating an unforgettable experience like no other.
2. Casa del Colibri, Palm Springs, CA
Casa del Colibri is a one-of-a-kind Spanish Colonial Revival estate, rich in Hollywood history and vibrant design, nestled in Palm Springs’ exclusive Old Las Palmas neighborhood. A top contender for the Most Unique Home category, this 1927 architectural gem boasts a luxe backyard with a private pickleball court, a handcrafted Kirk Douglas pool table, and a stunning blend of historic charm and modern elegance, offering an unforgettable desert retreat.
3. Skyline Sanctuary, Smoky Mountains, TN
Skyline Sanctuary is a masterpiece of modern luxury, seamlessly blending high-end design with the breathtaking beauty of the Smoky Mountains. A top nominee for the Most Unique Home category, this extraordinary retreat features an indoor pool with a panoramic viewing deck, a custom-designed game room, a whiskey-barrel firepit, and unparalleled views of Dollywood’s fireworks, making it a one-of-a-kind mountain escape.
4. Lazy River Glamp-House, Central OR
Lazy River Glamp-House is a one-of-a-kind retreat that seamlessly blends luxury with nature, offering a stunning A-frame design, spa-like amenities, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. A top contender for the Most Unique Home category, this Central Oregon escape features 50 feet of folding glass doors, a sauna, a private trail to the river, and adventure-ready gear, making it an unparalleled destination for relaxation and exploration.
5. Midnight Cowboy, Key West
Midnight Cowboy is a one-of-a-kind literary retreat in Key West, blending vibrant design, historic celebrity ties, and multiple residences for an unmatched island getaway. A top contender for the Most Unique Home category, this compound features a lush pool oasis with a waterfall grotto, a whimsical artistic flair, and close proximity to Duval Street’s endless entertainment.
6. Fish Camp Buyout – Port A
Fish Camp Buyout is a one-of-a-kind retreat in Port A, offering a unique blend of rustic charm and luxury with a main house, a separate cottage, and whimsical outdoor features like a transformed boat seating area and wrap-around balconies overlooking a nature preserve. A perfect nominee for the Most Unique Home category, this enchanting estate provides an unforgettable group getaway experience on the Texas Gulf Coast.
Best Event Venue
Space, style, and a setting that wows. These homes are made for celebrations, from weddings to corporate retreats, with plenty of room for guests and unforgettable backdrops.
1. Buena Vista, Coachella Valley, CA
Buena Vista is the ultimate event venue, offering a stunning 40+ acre desert oasis complete with a 60-ft pool, private lake, and a 3,500 sq. ft. barn designed for unforgettable gatherings. A top nominee for the Best Event Venue category, this expansive estate is perfect for weddings, corporate retreats, and brand activations, featuring luxurious accommodations, a saloon-style entertainment area, sports courts, and a concierge team dedicated to crafting a truly bespoke experience.
2. Twin Creeks Ranch and River House Buyout, Aspen, CO
Twin Creeks Ranch & River House Buyout is the ultimate luxury event venue, offering 25 acres of pristine Aspen wilderness, a private lake, and world-class amenities perfect for hosting unforgettable gatherings. A top nominee for the Best Event Venue category, this $40M estate features 12 bedrooms, multiple entertainment spaces, and breathtaking mountain views, making it an unparalleled setting for corporate retreats, family reunions, and milestone celebrations.
4. Cooperage, Paso Robles
Cooperage is a spectacular event venue that seamlessly blends vineyard charm with sweeping valley views, just minutes from Downtown Paso Robles. A top contender for the Best Event Venue category, this expansive retreat features a private soccer field, al fresco dining, a star-lit firepit, and a spacious open-concept layout, creating the perfect setting for corporate retreats, celebrations, and wine-country gatherings.
5. River House, Hudson
River House is a premier event venue, offering a breathtaking Hudson River backdrop, expansive gathering spaces, and a private estate setting perfect for any occasion. A top contender for the Best Event Venue category, this historic home features a grand dining room, a riverside pool, and a sprawling lawn that leads to a sandy beach, creating an unforgettable destination for weddings, corporate retreats, and special celebrations.
6. Merlot, Temecula
Merlot is a spacious estate nestled in Temecula Wine Country, offering unrivaled access to 30 local wineries and plenty of room for reunions or corporate retreats. A top nominee for the Best Event Venue category, its scenic surroundings, ample parking, and versatile amenities make it an ideal spot for unforgettable gatherings.
Most Relaxing Home
Think spa vibes. We picked homes with peaceful surroundings, dreamy soaking tubs, and the kind of ambiance that makes you instantly unwind.
1. Camino de Flores, Catalina Island (new addition)
Camino De Flores is the ultimate retreat for relaxation, offering breathtaking ocean views from every room and a private balcony to soak in the serenity of Catalina Island. A top nominee for the Most Relaxing Home category, this tranquil escape combines luxurious comfort with resort-style amenities, creating the perfect setting to unwind and recharge by the sea.
2. Riversong Lodge, Lake Tahoe, CA
Riversong Lodge is the epitome of tranquility, offering a serene riverfront location where you can wake up to the soothing sounds of flowing water and end your day under the stars in the hot tub. A top contender for the Most Relaxing Home category, this charming retreat seamlessly blends luxury and nature, making it the perfect getaway for complete rejuvenation.
3. Jewel, San Diego, CA
Jewel is a prime contender for the Most Relaxing Home category, featuring breathtaking ocean views, a private pool, and a luxurious primary suite with a soaking tub overlooking the sea. Whether unwinding on the balcony with an alfresco meal, cozying up by the fireplace, or enjoying the peaceful ambiance of La Jolla, this serene retreat offers the perfect escape.
4. Windswept, Whidbey
Windswept is a dreamy Whidbey Island retreat designed for total relaxation, featuring bright open interiors with soaring wood ceilings, a cozy stone fireplace, and expansive water views from every room. With its serene west-facing balcony for sunset cocktails, direct access to the beach, and ample space for the whole crew, it’s the perfect haven for unwinding and recharging in the Pacific Northwest.
5. Fawn, Tahoe
Fawn is a tranquil mountain chalet nestled between a secluded street and state forest, offering a serene Lake Tahoe retreat with rustic charm and bright, airy decor. Perfect for unwinding, this home features a spacious living area, a cozy brick fireplace, and a wraparound deck to savor stunning sunsets and breathtaking nature trails.
6. Rancho Notso Grande, Paso Robles
Rancho Notso Grande is a tranquil escape in the heart of Paso Robles, featuring sweeping vineyard views, a stunning infinity pool, and a soothing hot tub for ultimate relaxation. A top contender for the Most Relaxing Home category, this elegant retreat seamlessly blends indoor comfort with expansive outdoor spaces, offering the perfect setting to unwind and recharge in wine country.
Best Mountain Home
Cozy cabins, ski chalets, and high-altitude escapes. These homes are all about fireplaces, scenic trails, and fresh mountain air.
1. Rambling Ridge Lodge, Smoky Mountains, TN
Rambling Ridge Lodge is a custom-built luxury retreat in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, featuring sweeping mountain views, a unique indoor pool and hot tub, and distinctively themed guest suites that perfectly blend modern comfort with rustic charm. A top nominee for the Best Mountain Home category, this expansive lodge offers unparalleled group amenities and artfully crafted spaces that create an unforgettable mountain getaway.
2. Reflection Lane, Park City, UT
Reflection Lane is a breathtaking mountain retreat, featuring panoramic views of the Wasatch Mountains and Jordanelle Reservoir, a private hot tub, and beautifully designed indoor and outdoor spaces. A top contender for the Best Mountain Home category, this luxury escape combines modern sophistication with the tranquility of the Rockies, offering the perfect setting for both relaxation and adventure.
3. Ute Lodge, Telluride, CO
Ute Lodge is a premier mountain escape, blending rustic charm with modern luxury just minutes from Telluride’s renowned slopes. A top contender for the Best Mountain Home category, this spacious retreat boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, inviting stone fireplaces, and a private hot tub, creating the perfect setting to relax and soak in the alpine beauty.
4. Hunter, Tahoe
Hunter is a tranquil alpine retreat, seamlessly blending cozy craftsmanship with modern entertainment along the scenic Truckee River. A top nominee for the Best Mountain Home category, this Olympic Valley haven boasts a hot tub, outdoor fire pit, and game room, offering the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure at the nearby Palisades Resort.
5. Lake Point, Lake Arrowhead
Lake Point is a premier mountain escape, boasting stunning views of Lake Arrowhead from multiple decks and a beautifully designed interior for ultimate comfort. A top nominee for the Best Mountain Home category, this serene retreat features outdoor dining, a cozy firepit, and a luxurious soaking tub with panoramic vistas, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Southern California mountains.
6. Orion, Park City
Orion is a luxurious, newly built mountain home in Park City that blends contemporary design with rustic charm, featuring vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Rockies. A top nominee for the Best Mountain Home category, this retreat offers a spacious covered deck with panoramic vistas, a cozy two-way fireplace, and versatile living spaces perfect for both outdoor adventures and après-ski relaxation.
Best for Big Groups
More bedrooms, bigger kitchens, and gathering spaces made for the whole crew. These homes are built for reunions, celebrations, and making memories together.
1. Mesquite38, Coachella Valley, CA
Mesquite38 is the ultimate destination for large groups, featuring 3.9 acres of luxury with top-tier amenities, making it a top nominee for the Best for Big Groups category. With a 60-ft pool, oversized hot tub, private sports courts, a golf hole, and a dedicated concierge team curating tailored experiences, this stunning estate is perfect for corporate retreats, celebrations, and unforgettable group gatherings.
2. Fin, Emerald Coast, FL
Fin is the perfect destination for large gatherings, boasting nine spacious bedrooms, a private pool and hot tub, and abundant entertainment, making it a top choice for the Best for Big Groups category. With an arcade room, foosball, air hockey, outdoor ping pong, and exclusive beach access, this Destin escape offers the ultimate setting for fun-filled getaways with family and friends.
3. A View For All Seasons, Smoky Mountains
A View for All Seasons is the perfect retreat for large groups, featuring 12 bedrooms, stunning mountain views, and space for up to 56 guests, making it a top nominee for the Best for Big Groups category. With a gourmet kitchen, expansive dining area, game room, theater, two hot tubs, and spacious decks, this luxury log cabin is ideal for reunions, corporate retreats, and special gatherings in the Smoky Mountains.
4. Four Suns, 30A
Four Suns is a stunning, brand-new luxury home in Destin, tailor-made for big groups with spacious accommodations, a private saltwater pool with an optional hot tub, and an arcade-style game room complete with air hockey and ping pong. Just a 5-minute walk from the beach, this coastal retreat boasts modern design, abundant amenities, and a fun, welcoming atmosphere—perfect for large families or groups looking to create unforgettable memories.
5. Greene Mountain Lodge, Smoky Mountaines
Greene Mountain Lodge is the perfect getaway for large groups, featuring nine spacious bedrooms, a game and movie room, and breathtaking Smoky Mountain views—making it a top contender for the Best for Big Groups category. With generous gathering spaces, a fully equipped kitchen, and a scenic deck with a hot tub, this Gatlinburg retreat is ideal for reunions, group vacations, and memorable mountain escapes.
6. Wilson Hideaway, Lake Norman
Wilson Hideaway is a premier lakefront retreat for large groups, boasting panoramic water views, a sparkling saltwater pool and spa, and thoughtfully designed spaces for relaxation and connection. A top contender for the Best for Big Groups category, this elegant escape features spacious king suites, a vibrant bunk room, and a multi-level dock, making it the perfect setting for unforgettable reunions, group gatherings, and lakeside adventures.
Best Interior Design
Thoughtfully designed from top to bottom. These homes stand out for their aesthetics, from stunning architecture to interiors you’ll want to copy at home.
1. The Pond Estate, Coachella Valley, CA
The Pond Estate is a masterpiece of interior design, blending bespoke luxury with stunning architectural details across its expansive 12-acre compound. A top contender for the Best Interior Design category, this estate showcases a seamless fusion of contemporary elegance and timeless charm, featuring meticulously curated spaces by Lala Reimagined, breathtaking natural light, and striking design elements that elevate every corner of this Palm Springs retreat.
2. Flora, Joshua Tree, CA
Flora is a stunning fusion of Western-inspired elegance and modern design, offering impeccably curated interiors, plush furnishings, and a warm, inviting ambiance. A top contender for the Best Interior Design category, this Joshua Tree retreat seamlessly blends style and comfort, with thoughtfully placed décor, an open-concept layout, and an entertainer’s backyard that complements its breathtaking desert surroundings.
3. Paramount Place, Austin, TX
Paramount Place is a masterclass in modern design, seamlessly blending sleek architecture with bold statement pieces and an open, light-filled layout. A top nominee for the Best Interior Design category, this 11,000 sq. ft. Austin retreat boasts stunning chandeliers, stylish furnishings, and meticulously curated spaces, from the game room and home theater to the rooftop lawn with breathtaking city views.
4. Trapper, Tahoe
Trapper is a beautifully designed modern mountain retreat that perfectly balances contemporary elegance with rustic charm, making it a top contender for the Best Interior Design category. Featuring soaring cathedral ceilings, a dramatic wood-burning fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase breathtaking Sierra Mountain views, this multi-level home offers a seamless blend of luxury, comfort, and natural beauty.
This contemporary Sonoma bungalow is a masterclass in California-style design, featuring an open floor plan, plush furnishings, and abundant natural light that enhances its bright and airy ambiance. A top contender for the Best Interior Design category, this home seamlessly blends modern elegance with wine country charm, creating a refined yet inviting retreat for a truly elevated stay.
6. Parkview Mountain House, Park City
Parkview Mountain House is a stunning blend of modern architecture and cozy mountain elegance, making it a top contender for the Best Interior Design category. With its sleek open layout, natural light-filled spaces, and thoughtfully curated furnishings, this Park City retreat offers a perfect balance of contemporary luxury and alpine charm.
Best for Corporate Retreats
Spaces that balance work and play. These homes have everything from boardroom-style dining tables to team-building-ready amenities.
1. The Polo Villas, Coachella Valley, CA
The Polo Villa X The Reserve Full Buyout is the perfect setting for corporate retreats, featuring 18 upscale villas with 104 bedrooms, private pools, and versatile outdoor gathering spaces. A top contender for the Best for Corporate Retreats category, this exclusive Coachella Valley estate offers personalized event setups, team-building activities, and premium amenities, creating a seamless and inspiring environment for your group.
2. Blackhaus Full Buyout, Palm Springs, CA
Blackhaus Full Buyout is the ultimate corporate retreat destination, offering 16 private bedrooms across four modern bungalows in the heart of Downtown Palm Springs. A top contender for the Best for Corporate Retreats category, this stylish retreat features a central pool, bocce ball courts, outdoor firepits, and multiple terraces, creating the perfect setting for team-building, networking, and relaxation in a sleek, contemporary environment.
3. The Outrider, Nashville, TN
Outrider is the ideal corporate retreat, combining stylish, flexible accommodations with a prime location just minutes from Downtown Nashville. A top contender for the Best for Corporate Retreats category, this modern escape offers spacious living areas, dedicated workspaces, private rooftop patios, and fully equipped kitchens, making it perfect for team gatherings, networking, and relaxation.
4. Anhinga, Hilton Head
Anhinga is a premier corporate retreat destination, boasting 7,200 sq. ft. of refined luxury, stunning ocean vistas, and top-tier amenities designed for both collaboration and relaxation. A top contender for the Best for Corporate Retreats category, this expansive Hilton Head estate features ten elegantly appointed bedrooms, multiple entertainment spaces, a private office, a game room, and a sleek in-home bar—offering the perfect blend of productivity, team-building, and leisure.
5. Wine Country Estate, Sonoma
The luxurious Wine Country Estate is an exceptional corporate retreat, combining sophisticated design, expansive gathering spaces, and a beautifully renovated entertainment barn for team bonding and events. A top contender for the Best for Corporate Retreats category, this Sonoma escape offers a gourmet kitchen, firepit lounge, alfresco dining, and a solar-heated pool and spa—blending productivity, relaxation, and the charm of California’s renowned wine region.
6. The Conway, Nashville
The Conway is the ultimate corporate retreat in downtown Nashville, offering stylish accommodations and easy access to the city’s vibrant nightlife, live music, and top dining destinations. A top nominee for the Best for Corporate Retreats category, this upscale stay provides spacious layouts, modern amenities, and a prime location—perfect for team-building, networking, and unwinding in Music City.
Best Sports Court
Basketball, pickleball, tennis—you name it. These homes bring the competition with top-tier sports courts and plenty of room to play.
1. Starlight Estate, Coachella Valley, CA
Starlight Estate is a premier sports retreat, boasting one of the only private, air-conditioned indoor tennis courts in Coachella Valley, making it a top contender for the Best Sports Court category. This expansive ranch-style mansion also features a resort-style pool with waterfalls, a game room, and multiple outdoor lounges, providing the perfect blend of competition and relaxation in a breathtaking desert setting.
2. Villa Verdot, Temecula, CA
Villa Verdot is the ultimate sports and leisure retreat, featuring a private tennis court, basketball court, and putting green, making it a top contender for the Best Sports Court category. This stunning estate blends luxury and activity, offering a resort-style pool, outdoor bar and grill, and a game room, ensuring endless entertainment for guests in the heart of Temecula wine country.
3. Fairway Oasis, Scottsdale, AZ
Fairway Oasis is a top contender for the Best Sports Court category, offering an unparalleled backyard with a basketball hoop, pickleball net, bocce ball, putting green, and a golf practice cage. This Scottsdale retreat seamlessly blends luxury and entertainment, with a speakeasy game room, pool table, and sparkling pool, making it the ultimate destination for active groups and sports enthusiasts.
4. Chianti, Sonoma
Chianti is an expansive wine country retreat boasting a state-of-the-art FlexCourt that doubles as a pickleball and basketball court, making it a top contender for the Best Sports Court category. With high-performance Owl Paddles, a Playbarn for billiards and foosball, and sweeping vineyard vistas, this secluded estate seamlessly blends luxury, outdoor fun, and wine-country charm.
This serene 20-acre retreat is a prime nominee for the Best Sports Court category, offering a private pickleball court with stunning views of Lake Skinner and the surrounding hills. Complete with a game room featuring a full-size pool table, arcade favorites, and a 110” projector screen, plus a relaxing jacuzzi for unwinding after a match, this home perfectly blends recreation and relaxation for an unforgettable stay.
6. Azalea Retreat, Lake Norman
Azalea Retreat is a premier lakeside getaway, offering a private pickleball court and a variety of outdoor games, making it a top nominee for the Best Sports Court category. With a scenic lakeside setting, pickleball, cornhole, and shuffleboard, plus an in-ground pool and spacious decks for post-game relaxation, this Lake Norman retreat is the perfect blend of recreation and relaxation.
Best for Romantic Getaways
Cozy, private, and designed for two. These homes have intimate vibes, dreamy bathtubs, and the kind of ambiance made for couples.
1. Chicory, Joshua Tree, CA
Chicory is the perfect retreat for a romantic getaway, blending modern architecture, stylish interiors, and an intimate desert setting for two. A top nominee for the Best for Romantic Getaways for 2 Guests category, this cozy yet sophisticated hideaway offers stunning natural light, a first-class ambiance, and a private escape just minutes from Joshua Tree National Park.
2. Monkey Tree Hotel, Palm Springs, CA
The Monkey Tree Hotel is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway, offering a blend of mid-century modern charm, vibrant design, and a secluded, intimate atmosphere. A top nominee for the Best for Romantic Getaways for 2 Guests category, this iconic Palm Springs retreat features stylish suites, a serene communal pool, and a rich history that adds a touch of nostalgia to your escape.
3. Honeycomb Hideaway, Asheville, NC
Honeycomb Hideaway is the ultimate romantic retreat, offering a cozy, modern A-frame nestled in the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A top nominee for the Best for Romantic Getaways for 2 Guests category, this serene escape features a private soaking tub, a firepit under the stars, and an expansive deck with stunning mountain views—perfect for reconnecting and unwinding in nature.
4. Casita de Catherine, Key West FL
Casita de Catherine is the perfect romantic hideaway, offering an intimate retreat just steps from Duval Street in Key West. A top nominee for the Best for Romantic Getaways for 2 Guests category, this charming cottage features a private hot tub, a cozy king-sized canopy bed, and a tranquil outdoor space—creating an idyllic escape for couples looking to relax and soak in the island’s vibrant charm.
5. A-Frame Retreat, Lake Arrowhead
A-Frame Retreat is the perfect blend of modern luxury and rustic charm, making it a top nominee for the Best for Romantic Getaways for 2 Guests category. With its cozy wood-burning fireplace, serene outdoor decks, and breathtaking forest views, this intimate Lake Arrowhead escape offers couples the ideal setting to unwind, reconnect, and immerse themselves in nature.
6. Aerie, Discovery West
Aerie is the perfect romantic retreat, offering a serene escape at the base of the Cascade Mountains with private balconies, cozy living spaces, and luxurious hot tubs. A top nominee for the Best for Romantic Getaways for 2 Guests category, this stylish Bend retreat blends modern comfort with breathtaking natural beauty, making it an idyllic setting for couples to unwind and reconnect.
Best for Bachelorettes
Insta-worthy decor, walkable locations, and plenty of space for the whole bridal party. These homes are the ultimate pre-wedding getaway spot.
1. Last Rodeo Suite, Nashville, TN
Last Rodeo Suite is the ultimate bachelorette getaway, featuring a chic pink cowgirl theme, disco balls, neon signs, and a dedicated glam area to get ready in style. A top nominee for the Best for Bachelorettes category, this Insta-worthy retreat offers a rooftop patio, photo wall with ring lighting, and a prime location just minutes from Broadway—ensuring an unforgettable celebration with your crew!
2. The Marley Hotel, Palm Springs, CA
The Marley Hotel is the ultimate bachelorette escape, providing an exclusive full-hotel buyout with six chic suites, a private pool and spa, and ample space for your group to unwind in style. A top nominee for the Best for Bachelorettes category, this Palm Springs oasis offers total privacy, luxe amenities, and a prime location near the city’s hottest spots—perfect for an unforgettable celebration.
3. Pink Pines, Smoky Mountains, TN
Pink Pines is the perfect bachelorette getaway, offering a chic pink-themed design, a private indoor pool, and a stunning Smoky Mountain backdrop for an unforgettable celebration. A top choice for the Best for Bachelorettes category, this vibrant retreat features a cozy firepit lounge, a private movie theater, arcade games, and a stylish bar area, making it the ultimate destination for a girls’ trip.
4. Born 2 Beach
Born 2 Beach is the ultimate bachelorette retreat, featuring 10 bedrooms, a private pool and spa, and stylish indoor-outdoor spaces perfect for celebrating with your crew. A top nominee for the Best for Bachelorettes category, this stunning Blue Mountain getaway offers a chef’s kitchen, game area, and multiple balconies—creating the perfect setting for an unforgettable girls’ trip along 30A.
5. Date Palm Estate, Coachella
The Date Palm Estate is the ultimate bachelorette getaway, offering a private 1.33-acre oasis with a saltwater pool, spa, pickleball court, arcade games, and multiple firepits for unforgettable celebrations. A top nominee for the Best for Bachelorettes category, this luxurious Coachella Valley retreat blends style, fun, and relaxation—perfect for a girls’ trip filled with sun-soaked days and lively nights.
6. El Mirador, Palm Springs
El Mirador is a stylish bachelorette retreat that combines relaxation and fun, featuring a private pool, summer kitchen, and inviting lounge areas. With a billiards room, cozy indoor spaces, and a prime Palm Springs location, this top nominee for the Best for Bachelorettes category is the perfect setting for a memorable girls’ getaway.
Best Game Room
Arcade games, pool tables, and setups made for friendly competition. These homes bring the fun with next-level entertainment spaces.
1. Grand Timber, Poconos, PA
Grand Timber is a top contender for the Best Game Room category, offering two incredible entertainment spaces filled with arcade games, a golf driving range, a rock-climbing wall, and more. With features like pool, shuffleboard, basketball shootout, and an indoor pool, this Poconos retreat guarantees nonstop fun and excitement for guests of all ages.
2. Ever After, Davenport, FL
Boasting a futuristic entertainment space with built-in arcade gaming, air hockey, foosball, and a massive projector screen, Ever After stands out as the ultimate game room getaway. As a top nominee for the Best Game Room category, this uniquely themed retreat features a Star Wars theater, vibrant pop-culture-inspired décor, and endless fun, making it a dream destination for fans and gamers alike.
3. Game Farm Villa, Hudson Valley, NY
Game Farm Villa truly redefines entertainment with its dedicated game room featuring a pool table, arcade games, and a spacious recreation area complete with turf and bounce houses. As a top nominee for the Best Game Room category, this Catskills estate guarantees endless fun and excitement for guests of all ages, making every stay a memorable playtime adventure.
4. Sugarland, Smokies
Sugarland is a chic, upscale cabin nestled in the Smoky Mountains, where an expansive game room with billiards and a state-of-the-art home theatre delivers non-stop entertainment for your group. With an indoor pool, multiple outdoor lounging spaces, and a covered deck for alfresco dining, this retreat perfectly blends rustic charm with modern luxury, making it a top contender for the Best Game Room category.
5. Orlando Resort Retreat
Orlando Resort Retreat is a paradise for gamers and kids alike, featuring a glow-in-the-dark arcade, a themed princess playroom, and multiple entertainment spaces. A top nominee for the Best Game Room category, this fun-filled getaway boasts immersive themed bedrooms, a private pool, and access to an incredible community pool complex, ensuring non-stop excitement for guests of all ages.
6. Under the Sea, Orlando
Under the Sea elevates indoor entertainment with its spectacular game room—a former garage transformed into a dazzling Star Wars-themed arcade featuring skee-ball and basketball, along with a vibrant sports-themed den for extra play. Perfect for families and groups, this uniquely designed retreat is a top nominee for the Best Game Room category, offering endless fun just minutes from Walt Disney World.
Best Movie Theater
Reclining seats, giant screens, and surround sound. These homes have the kind of private theaters that make every movie night feel like a premiere.
1. River Rock, Breckenridge, CO
River Rock is a majestic mountain retreat that transforms its game room into an exceptional home theatre experience, complete with a large screen and cozy seating for unforgettable movie nights. Nominated for the Best Movie Theater category, this ski home offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern entertainment, making it an ideal haven for après-ski relaxation and cinematic fun.
2. Red Hawk, Park City, UT
Red Hawk stands out with its dedicated movie theater on the top floor, featuring a spectacular 90-inch screen that transforms movie nights into an immersive cinematic experience. Perfect for winding down after a day of adventure in Park City, this charming cabin seamlessly blends alpine allure with modern comforts, making it a top nominee for the Best Movie Theater category.
3. Oak and Luna, Big Bear, CA
Oak and Luna is a top contender for the Best Movie Theater category, featuring a dedicated theater room that transforms movie nights into an immersive cinematic experience. With its modern elegance, cozy ambiance, and entertainment-packed amenities—including a pool table, table tennis, and a private hot tub—this Big Bear retreat offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
4. Black Bear Lodge, Lake Norman
Black Bear Lodge is a prime nominee for the Best Movie Theater category, offering a luxurious in-home theater with plush seating for 14, a large screen, and an inviting cabin atmosphere. Whether watching a blockbuster film or enjoying Sunday football, this stunning lakeside retreat delivers an unparalleled cinematic experience.
5. Pinot Point, Temecula
Pinot Point is a premier retreat for movie lovers, boasting a state-of-the-art home theater that delivers an authentic cinematic experience in the heart of Temecula wine country. A top contender for the Best Movie Theater category, this stunning hilltop estate offers the perfect combination of luxury and entertainment, allowing guests to unwind with an immersive film experience after a day of vineyard-hopping.
6. Apex, Telluride
Apex is the ultimate mountain escape, featuring a cozy home theater perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes, making it a top contender for the Best Movie Theater category. With its blend of rustic charm and modern luxury, this Telluride retreat offers the perfect après-ski experience—hot tub soaks, cocktails in hand, and an immersive movie night in a stylish, intimate setting.
Best Ski-in, Ski-out Home
No shuttles, no long walks—just step outside and hit the slopes. These homes have unbeatable ski access so you can spend more time on the mountain and less time getting there.
1. Snowdrift Cabin, Telluride, CO
Snowdrift Log Cabin is the ultimate ski-in, ski-out retreat, providing prime access to Lift 10’s Galloping Goose trail, making it a standout contender for the Best Ski-in, Ski-out Home category. Designed for skiers of all ages, this charming log cabin features a dedicated ski room, spacious decks with breathtaking views, and cozy living areas perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
2. Bronson, Lake Tahoe, CA
Bronson is one of the top nominees for the Best Ski-in, Ski-out Home category, offering direct access to the slopes of Olympic Valley for an effortless skiing experience. With breathtaking mountain views, a spacious deck with a hot tub, and a warm yet modern interior featuring wood beam ceilings, multiple fireplaces, and a wet bar, this luxurious retreat is designed for the ultimate alpine getaway.
3. Silver Sun, Park City, UT
Silver Sun is an exceptional nominee for the Best Ski-in, Ski-out Home category, providing prime access to the slopes just 150 feet from your door in Deer Valley’s Empire Pass. This luxurious mountain retreat offers two spacious living areas, a private office, a scenic hot tub, and easy access to nearby dining and nightlife, creating the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
4. Twin Chutes, Breckenridge
Twin Chutes is an ideal nominee for the Best Ski-in, Ski-out Home category, offering direct access to the lifts just steps from your door. With upscale amenities like a hot tub, billiards table, and gym, plus stunning mountain views and elegant interior design, this Breckenridge retreat provides the perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and après-ski luxury.
5. Clover, Big Bear
Clover is a premier slope-adjacent escape, delivering seldom-found ski-in, ski-out access in Big Bear and panoramic mountain vistas with a welcoming alpine ambiance. A leading candidate for the Best Ski-in, Ski-out Home category, this comfortable yet spacious hideaway boasts a game room with billiards, foosball, and air hockey, plus an inviting hot tub and fire pit—offering the perfect combination of high-adrenaline adventure and après-ski relaxation.
This elegant ski-in, ski-out condo in Mountain Village offers unbeatable slope-side access, making it one of the top nominees for the Best Ski-in, Ski-out Home category. Featuring a private hot tub, an expansive deck with stunning views, and a cozy interior with vaulted ceilings, gas fireplaces, and a jetted tub, this luxurious retreat is the perfect blend of mountain adventure and après-ski comfort.
The coastal region of the Beaver State offers an incredible array of activities and experiences. Most may not think of golf as a popular thing to do in our area, but there are some great golf courses on the Oregon Coast. Whether you want to enjoy a quick nine-hole outing or a full-fledged 18-hole competition, you’ll find the perfect fit for your game here.
The Top Oregon Coast Golf Courses
1. Highlands Golf Club – Seaside
Highlands Golf Club is about a 10-minute drive north of the beach town of Seaside and is one of the better Oregon Coast golf courses that you will find in the area. 18 manicured holes wind through a beach house community that’s one block away from Del Rey Beach State Recreation Area. Rates here are very reasonable, with nine holes costing $22 and 18 holes costing $39. You can also find specials find early bird and twilight rates!
2. Gearheart Golf Links – Gearheart
If you’re searching for one of the best public golf courses on the Oregon Coast, look no further than Gearheart Golf Links. This sprawling 18-hole course features a nice clubhouse with a pub and is within walking distance of the beach. It’s also just down the road from the Highlands Golf Club. The rates here vary depending on the season and are substantially higher than most of the public courses in the area.
3. Seaside Golf Course – Seaside
Seaside Golf Course offers visitors a casual place to take in nine holes at their own pace. This small public golf course sits south of Seaside and winds along a creek, so you can test yourself a little bit during a fun golf outing. One round of golf ranges between $18 to $24, depending on the season. The Seaside Golf Course works on a first-come-first-serve basis, so you don’t need to bother making a tee-time!
4. Manzanita Links – Manzanita
The Manzanita Links is somewhat of a hidden gem for golfers wanting to enjoy a casual round of golf on well-manicured greens. This nine-hole golf course on the Oregon Coast features plenty of beautiful trees surrounding each hole along with great views of Neahkahnie Mountain in the distance. Call the clubhouse for rates and tee times!
5. Alderbrook Golf Course – Tillamook
If you’re on a quest to test your skills at all of the Oregon Coast golf courses in our area, drive about 20 minutes south of Rockaway Beach to Alderbrook Golf Course. This 18-hole, par 69 public golf course offers reasonable weekday rates along with some beautiful scenery around the course.
Plan Your Oregon Coast Getaway
AvantStay offers the ultimate Oregon Coast experience. Our luxurious properties in Manzanita, Rockaway Beach, Arch Cape, and Cannon Beach feature oceanfront and ocean locations and ocean views as well as an array of other amenities. We also provide an incredible guest services program that is second to none in our area.
Austin, Texas is known for its bustling nightlife, tasty tacos, and plenty to do outside. Whether you’re ISO a trip here for warmer days, a girls’ getaway, or simply to see what all the fuss is about, we’ve come up with the best AvantStay Airbnbs in Austin – all with unique vacation rental experiences you can’t get anywhere else, guaranteeing a top-of-the-line vacay.
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 locations – places you’ve been dying to check out, and places you’re ready to check off your bucket list – like ATX! Let’s dive in.
1. Barton – For the Outdoorsy Type
Trust us when we say pics don’t do Barton justice. This Lake Travis stay is located just a short drive from Austin proper. With an infinity pool overlooking the water, a living room patio with views for days, and a hot tub ready for happy hour, this 8-guest home is here to impress. Spend mornings soaking in the lounge chairs and evenings roasting s’mores over the firepit. Take a deep breath in, and enjoy Austin without all the hustle and bustle.
Looking for more fun things to do outside? Check out our Guide to Austin Hiking for nearby hikes and views.
2. Ramsey – For the City Slicker
Ramsey is an East Austin vacation rental located in the sweet spot of everything you need to experience in ATX. Take a short ride to the lovely Lady Bird Lake or bring a picnic basket to chill out at Zilker Park where they host the annual SXSW Conference and Festival. Other than being near all things Austin, this home also comes with the cutest casita poolhouse in the back, and TBH we can’t stop thinking about it.
3. Hudson – For the Explorer
Hello, Hill Country! Come to Hudson for a slice of Texas paradise. Located just a 20-minute drive from downtown Austin, this vacation rental comes bearing gifts of lake views, a private pool, and gorgeous interiors. With inspo from European design, you’ll find yourself perfectly blissed out within the home’s three levels featuring a pool table, clawfoot tub, and wet bar. Invite the whole crew, Hudson’s got room for up to 12 guests!
4. Melody – For the Architect
Make your way to Melody. You’re only a short drive from East Austin, and therefore close to the water wonderland that is Barton Springs, when you stay at this Austin Airbnb alternative. This home shows its personality via unique architecture, brand new outdoor deck and sparkling drum set. Enjoy cozy sunsets on the private balcony with a fire pit, drinks in the spacious kitchen, and maybe even a sesh on the Peloton bike in the living room.
5. Dawson – For the Water Bug
Down for a trip to Dawson? We thought so. Take a trip here for pool and hot tub hangs, a dreamy view of Lake Travis, and plenty of space for up to 10 guests. Unlike most vacation rentals, you don’t have to race to get to the primary bedroom first. With the AvantStay app, you and your friends can reserve bedrooms before you arrive! This is something we highly recommend while staying here, because the views from this clawfoot tub in the primary are one in a million.
6. Paramount Place – For the Movie Star
Saving the best for last? Guilty as charged. Text the group chat and let them know you’re ready to make your Austin debut at Paramount Place. Conveniently located next to the Paramount Theatre on South Congress, this downtown ATX home comes with five floors, room for 10 guests, a movie theater, dedicated game room, a gourmet kitchen, and best of all: a rooftop hot tub. Once you stay at Paramount Place, your vacation standards will never be the same.
The party doesn’t stop here. 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!
Truth be told, the desire to spend the day by the pool doesn’t just go away as you get older. Even better than your average backyard water game is the forever fun water slide. Pair that with an infinity pool and panoramic views of stunning scenery wherever you are – and you’re bound to win the Coolest Trip Planner Award (because that’s totally a thing).
1. Sip, Sip Away – Lake Norman, NC
There’s so much to do when you stay at Sip, Sip Away. But for the sake of this article, we recommend starting with an obligatory plunge into the pool via the water slide. Swim toward the basketball hoop where you can show off your skills. When you’re done with the pool, why not take your boat out for a spin from the home’s private dock?
2. Villa Cabernet – Temecula, CA
Somehow the water slide isn’t even the coolest part of this property.
Text all of your friends (yes, all of them) and tell them you’re destined for a stay at Villa Cabernet in Temecula. This humble abode can fit up to 28 guests, and features oh-so-soothing views of the vineyards you might find yourself at for a nice glass of local wine. We recommend trying out Wilson Creek Winery first thing.
3. Tranquil Tides – Port Aransas, TX
Calling all water signs.
Tranquil Tides takes pool time to a whole new level. When you’re not taking full advantage of this extraordinary outdoor setup, spread out in this spacious stay located in the heart of Port Aransas, TX. This aqua lover’s dream is perfect for soaking away all your worries, paired with a nice margarita of course.
4. Owl’s Nest – Temecula, CA
Spend days at Owl’s Nest sliding down this water slide into the luxurious infinity pool. At night, enjoy some friendly competition by the pool table, or a nice soak in the hot tub. If you can ever scrounge up the desire to explore something other than this property, we recommend checking out Akash Winery & Vineyard for local wine and GrapeSeed Spa for a day of some pure TLC. Whatever you end up doing, we’re sure that this Temecula beauty can check off all those vacation wishlist boxes.
5. Warhol – Temecula, CA
This home can fit 28 guests? Say less.
There’s room for the whole crew Warhol, this creative-stay-getaway named after one of our favorite visual artists. Lounge the days away by the bubbly blue pool, pop another bottle of local wine at your very own outdoor bar, dine al fresco, or toast some fresh s’mores at the fire pit. When all’s said and done and you’re nice and full, take a trip down the waterslide and go into the deep blue!
6. Burgundy – Temecula, CA
Meet the backyard of your dreams.
This one’s for those who like to spend their days in the endless sunshine. Head on over to the southern California stunner Burgundy and get to water-sliding into this cool blue pool. Celebrate sunsets by relaxing in the hot tub, powering through your summer read in the hammock, or cheffing it up poolside in the outdoor kitchen. No matter what you want in a vacay, this Temecula stay promises to deliver with all the amenities and privacy you desire.
If there’s one thing we know how to do, it’s going bigger and better than the rest. Now we want to share our tips for traveling smarter and saving money in the process. Our vacation rental homes may be located in top destinations, designed by an award-winning team, and offer upgrades and experiences via the app (in-home massage, anyone?), but you don’t need to cut your spending to stay with us. Here are 6 ways to experience the AvantStay treatment without breaking the bank.
1. Use the numbers in your favor
Our group-friendly properties include large estates, sprawling villas, and multi-acre ranches that can accommodate over 30 guests—which sometimes leads to a daunting number at checkout. Use our cost per person feature when searching through our site to calculate the price for each guest instead. You’ll be surprised by how reasonable the outcome is when you split amongst a big group…and we know you have a lot of friends!
2. Travel now, pay later
There’s nothing better than a stress-free vacation from start to finish, and that includes the booking process. Instead of paying for your much-needed getaway upfront, we allow guests to book now and pay in smaller increments over time with Affirm. All you have to do is select “pay with Affirm” at checkout to start relaxing.
3. Refer & earn $100
One pro travel tip is to take advantage of our referral program and tell all your friends about us. When you refer a friend to AvantStay, they’ll receive $250 off, and once they complete their first stay with us, you’ll receive $100 in travel credit. Everyone wins!
4. Off-season is very much on
“Off-season” isn’t really a word in our vocabulary since pool tables, hot tubs, private chefs, and 24/7 service are always in with us. Nonetheless, some of our destinations are notorious for strong peak seasons, followed by quieter months when prices drop. This is especially true for ski towns where we’ve found that there are endless activities to enjoy without snow. Think biking, fishing, and hiking through freshly-bloomed wildflowers in your favorite summer travel outfits because the weather will still be sunny and beautiful. If you’re looking to save a little, consider your travel dates wisely—you’ll still get all the perks of staying at an AvantStay!
5. WFH (workout from home)
The best things in life are free, getting a workout in, and being on vacation! We’ve made it easier than ever to feel your best on your next getaway with complimentary P.volve classes, which you can take from the comfort of your AvantStay home. P.volve is a fitness method that combines joint movement with patented resistance training for a challenging workout with no equipment needed.
6. Fly high for low prices
Half the effort is getting there. Actually, once you get to our homes, everything is effortless. That means you’ll want to book flights that get your trip off to a great start, and nothing makes us breathe easy more than knowing you just got a great, budget-friendly travel deal. Save up to 90% off on airfare to the country’s most sought-after destinations with Going.
Calling all future Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal—it’s time to make your way to your private tennis court and serve all season at these AvantStays. Whether you’re just out here serving looks, or you consider yourself a pro, these homes come complete with all you need to get your head in the game. Meet you at the courts.
1. Starlight Estate – Coachella Valley, CA
With a vacation house like Starlight Estate, you truly will cause a racket in your friend group. Live it up at this private stay nestled in the San Jacinto mountains – featuring an indoor tennis court with air-conditioning, a pool with waterfalls, fire pit, plenty of seating and bold Southern California interiors.
2. The Riesling Retreat – Temecula, CA
A vacation home dedicated to the sweet taste of Riesling? Wine not. Meet the newest addition to your wine country wishlist: The Riesling Retreat. While this court isn’t necessarily for tennis, it’s close enough! Pickleball, basketball, and putt-putt courts ensure you’ve got all you need to get that energy out before enjoying a chill night by the pool.
3. Orca Ridge – Whidbey Island, WA
Another round, you say? Are you referring to a round of tennis, round of drinks, or both? Cheers to the good life at this Whidbey Island property, Orca Ridge, that blends the best of both worlds – with gorgeous surroundings and an inviting hot tub perfect for relaxing after an intense game.
4. Vista Verde – Cave Creek, Scottsdale, AZ
The desert is calling! This spacious home is surrounded by Cave Creek – a small desert town in Scottsdale. Bringing nothing but the best, Vista Verde features a private tennis court, infinity pool, and balcony with panoramic views of the town, a cozy fire pit, and ready-to-go BBQ.
5. Villa Verdot – Temecula, CA
Enjoy the lush, green surroundings Villa Verdot has to offer after a nice long game of tennis at your private court. Take a dip into the pool, swing on the hammock, or cozy up for some fireside chat while you fully immerse yourself in the wonders of wine country. Check out the nearby vineyard Wilson Creek Winery for some of our favorite local wines.
6. Dume Point – Malibu, CA
This one’s for the pros. Next time you’re looking for an active vacay – think Dume Point. This coastal oasis comes complete with your very own outdoor pool, private tennis court, bat-gammon net, and so much more.
7. Buena Vista – Coachella Valley, CA
Would you believe us if we said the tennis court isn’t even the best part of Buena Vista? You could say we saved the best for last with this sprawling 40+ acres estate. Located just 10 minutes from the Polo Fields and with room for up to 26 people, this stay just doesn’t stop with its freshwater lake, saloon-style wet bar, bonfire area, bocce ball, horseshoe rings, and al fresco dining area for your whole group.
Maybe you want to take it a step further and have your wedding here… We don’t blame you. Click here for more info on AvantStay events.
You and your crew just might end up leaving Park City, Utah in better shape than you arrived. Aside from being a primo skiing and snowboarding hotspot, the city’s main street is an adventure itself given all the uphill climbs involved in visiting its vast retail shops, art galleries, restaurants, and bars. If walking uphill is a battle, just hop on the city’s free shuttle bus, available year-round, or grab your snowshoes and enjoy the workout.
Another added bonus? There’s no reason to leave your fur babies behind. Lovingly referred to as “Bark City” by puppy parents of all stripes, this skier’s paradise is also a dog-friendly destination. Four-legged family members are welcome at many lodging properties, such as the AvantStay Picasso property, not to mention all the dog parks and dog-friendly trails surrounding the area.
One thing that’s impossible to find in Park City? A bad meal. Despite the town’s small population, this dining mecca boasts over 100 restaurants that attract foodies throughout the year. Locally sourced menus provide restaurant-goers with the full Park City dining experience, highlighting the agricultural and culinary chops the city has to offer. Everyone from vegetarians and meat lovers to sushi fanatics and pasta diehards can find something they like with Park City’s wide variety of options. Aside from the food itself, the views from these restaurants make for the perfect spectator spot. Relax and watch the parade of vacationing families, couples, and locals strolling past. Or just let the Rocky Mountain air kiss your face while you admire the purple mountains’ majesty.
Where to eat in Park City
1. Five5eeds is a breakfast spot owned by Australians who wanted to elevate the city’s breakfast scene. They offer tons of breakfast dishes, but the most recommended are the pulled pork benedict, mushrooms on quinoa toast, or a plate of Moroccan Shakshuka (baked eggs, feta, and a spice dip known as dukkha).
2. The Eating Establishment is a longtime local’s favorite that serves traditional breakfast foods all day. Some menu items include a loaded baked potato omelet, farfalle, and egg scramble, or you can go full-throttle southern and order a plate of biscuits and gravy.
3. Stop for lunch at RIME Seafood + Raw Bar after some skiing, or grab some food to go and keep on adventuring! RIME’s also has a sister property in St. Regis Deer Valley, RIME Seafood & Steak, which is open year-round.
4. On Historic Main Street, 350 Main offers seasonal favorites including a citrus vinaigrette splashed over orange slices, raspberries, and garden-fresh salad, best enjoyed with a glass of crisp rosé. For those looking to get their veggies in without eating leafy greens, they also offer an amazing plate of corn-on-the-cob served on a bed of orange-red Romesco sauce topped with a chartreuse cream of basil aioli.
5. Hearth & Hill is perfect for shareable plates of potato pierogies, or harvestable options such as an ahi poke bowl or winter salad. Cauliflower enchiladas are recommended, but if you’re starving it might be best to opt for short-rib pastrami.
6. Courchevel Bistro’s French chef, Clement Gelas, uses some of his native favorites to inspire his cuisine. A Talisker Club – the only four-club private community in the city, Courchevel Bistro was named for Park City’s sister city in the French Alps and is situated within the historic Coal & Lumber building where Main Street meets Heber Avenue.
7. Twisted Fern sources local, creative culinary ingredients meant to impress. Begin with a trout salad before biting into a black bean lentil burger – and save room for a plant-based dessert of lemon olive oil cake with strawberry-rhubarb compote and candied pistachio.
8. Dine in a private, heated bubble on the roof at the Kimball Terrace while enjoying the view of the mountains and street views from the rooftop.
Best bars
9. Head to St. Regis Bar to sip its signature 7452 Mary, an enticing blend of the St. Regis Bar’s famous Bloody Mary mix and Five Wives Vodka locally-distilled from Utah mountain spring water, served with a black salt rim and a wasabi-celery foam. Chef Matthew Harris also offers light fare to munch on in this modern mountain lounge.
10. Hearth & Hill is a locals’ gathering spot that offers guests the immersive experience to make-your-own Old Fashioned. You may prefer a Dragonfly Rita concocted with rabbit & grass tequila, alpine preserve, smoked pitaya and dragon fruit jam, lime, agave, and mint. This cocktail was a 2020 fan favorite of the Park City Cocktail Contest. There’s also food offered, whether shareable – potato pierogi, for example, or harvestable options such as an ahi poke bowl or winter salad. Cauliflower enchiladas are considered feast-able, but if you’re truly hungry, it might be best to opt for short-rib pastrami.
11. The Umbrella Bar at Canyon’s Village is a classic outdoor deck spot in the Resort Village, offering 360-degree views from its unique glass enclosure and a massive outdoor deck with a view of the village music stage. Along with a menu that features specialty hot dogs and burgers, there’s an extensive beer selection featuring draft and craft brews.
Best ski resorts in Park City
12. Outdoor activities are in full effect at Deer Valley Resort, a ski-only winter spot. Book your stay at AvantStay’s Scarlet property, a mere five minutes from Deer Valley Resort.
13. Park City Mountain is the largest ski resort in the country and the ideal place for snowboarders to enjoy in the winter months, and hikers, mountain bikers, alpine sliders, or eagle coasters in the summer. With over 400 miles of trails for hiking and biking, there’s plenty of terrain for visitors to enjoy some recreation.
Things to do for non-skiers
Within this ski-obsessed destination, there are several options to hit the slopes. You can book a place adjacent to the lifts, such as AvantStay’s Slopeside. But you don’t have to be a ski enthusiast to enjoy this destination.
14. Park City Wine Festival is a premier gathering event for master winemakers, culinary greats, and distinguished guests to play, wine, and dine. Lots of food, wine, and locally-made products are showcased during this ultimate food and wine experience that takes place annually at the end of September. Satisfy your palate with wine and food tastings and educate your palate during seminars and outdoor adventures with food and wine on the itinerary.
15. Savor the Summit, Park City’s biggest outdoor dinner party will return in 2024 to resume the annual June event that offers diners a unique celebration of fabulous food, drink, and live music right in the middle of Main Street. Park City’s best restaurants showcase their culinary talents in an open-air community celebration that requires no ticket to purchase. You do, however, need to make a reservation directly with a participating restaurant of your choice.
16. Park City Farmer’s Market is a seasonal market held on Wednesdays, from noon to 5 p.m. at Park City Resort from June through the end of October. This space is a great way to meet like-minded organic food enthusiasts on a “no-spray” quest – and to stock up on fresh local goods from Utah farmers and vendors. Arrive hungry to enjoy food truck offerings!
17. Park City Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday and provides the perfect introduction for newbies. Here, you’ll learn about the city’s rich history and culturally significant sites. You’ll realize why it has won numerous awards, accolades, and inclusion in national and international travel guides as a Top Ten attraction.
18. Sundance Film Festival, perhaps the most famous annual event, takes place here for seven days each year, beginning at the end of January. This is a place to rub elbows with celebrities during premieres, events, artist talks, and cutting-edge exhibitions. Adventurous audiences and indie film lovers are welcome to celebrate exciting new talent and creative visionaries.
19. For more than 50 years, the Park City Kimball Arts Festival has been a highly anticipated event. Lasting for three days in early August, more than 50,000 attendees converge on Main Street to browse and purchase art from a festival that ranks among the top art festivals in the country for artist sales and attendee experience.
20. Year-round action sports for all ages and levels are held at Woodward Park City, the ideal stop for beginners trying to learn something new. This state-of-the-art indoor action sports hub also spans more than 60 acres of outdoor action sports and mountain parks. If your interests include skiing, snowboarding, tubing, mountain biking, or skateboarding, this is the place to visit.
21. All Seasons Adventures provides instruction, high-quality gear, beverages, snacks, and a personalized experience focused on customer service. Fly fishing, trap shooting, and horseback riding are some summer activities offered here and wintertime options include snowshoeing winter fly fishing, and dog sledding.
22. Wasatch Excursions offers guided and non-guided ATV, UTV, and Snowmobile rentals.
23. Park City Yoga Adventures offers Zen-inducing yoga experiences such as silks yoga in a barn, outdoor yoga, and SUP yoga in a geothermal crater.
24. Escape Room Park City is the place to test your puzzle-solving skills through one of several experiences. Gather your friends to see how well you can work together to escape.
25. Summit Bike Share electric bike stations around town are available for use every day from spring through fall. This mode of transportation is a fun way to tour the area without worrying about the hills. There are annual and monthly memberships for those who want to ride the bikes regularly, or you can pay per ride. There’s an Official Summit Bike Share App where you can access membership information and bikes, and you can find this information at any station kiosk located near the bike docks.
26. Alpine Slide is meant for adrenal-rush seekers. Park City Mountain Village has a 3,000-foot luge-like track deemed one of the longest alpine coasters in the world, with multiple paths to choose from so sliders can experience a different ride each time.
27. Utah Outdoor Adventures is the place to sign up for customized snowshoeing experiences. This company focuses on outdoor experiences for small private groups.
Where to shop
28. Take a stroll along the picturesque Historic Main Street, the perfect place to window shop, peek inside a quirky gallery or two, and enjoy some downtime.
29. If you’re seeking souvenirs or sporting goods, you’ll want to stop for some retail therapy at the Resort Center at Park City Mountain Resort and Silver Lake Village at Deer Valley Resort. If you’re in the market for outdoor and travel clothing that ranges from base layers, lifestyle, and outerwear to help keep you cool and dry in the summer heat, head to Smartwood at the Resort Village at Canyons Resort.
30. For chain stores and more diverse shops, Redstone is the spot to browse through major retailers, fine shops, and food markets such as World Market, Whole Foods, and Bed Bath & Beyond. This is also where you can stop for dinner and a movie.
31. Outlet shopping is a fun sport unto itself, and there’s an outlet mall six miles north of the city on SR 224 with over 65 stores that include Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, and J Crew.
32. Park Silly Sunday Market is a great way to spend your Sunday if only to people-watch and browse the unique artisan goods for sale. Bread, pies, hot dogs, and more farm-friendly food options are at every turn in this delicious open-air market open from early June through September, with street performers and music to entertain.
More fun
33. High West Distillery, founded in 2006, was the first to open in Utah following Prohibition. In fact, it was the first legal distillery since 1870 — even before Prohibition!). In 2016, Whisky Advocate named High West its “Distiller of the Year.” Plan a stop here to take an educational whiskey tour and experience a tasting.
34. Park City was a key location during the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympic Games, where events included aerials, freestyle moguls, and alpine slalom ski events: snowboarding halfpipe; bobsledding; luge; and ski jumping. Today, U.S. Ski & Snowboard calls Park City home, and many of our nation’s Olympians use the city for training at Utah Olympic Park. Summer offerings include extreme tubing, alpine slides, bobsledding, ropes courses, and zip-lining. Two museums, the Alf Engen Ski Museum and the Eccles Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games Museum are free to visit and open year-round.
Whether you’re looking for a snow-filled getaway, a summertime adventure, or just a happy atmosphere with 19th-century architecture to admire, Park City is the place to be. It’s perfect for novice skiers/snowboarders and pros alike, as well as shopaholics, culinary buffs, museum-goers, and festival junkies. Book a stay at one of AvantStay’s Park City properties to experience the fun yourself.
If you’re planning a trip to Sonoma County, California, explore this guide for inspiration as you build your list of things not to miss for your next vacation.
Sonoma is a historic city located in Northern California about 45 minutes from San Francisco and known for amazing vineyards, wineries, and sustainable farming. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or staying for a week, there’s plenty to explore along the Sonoma Coast and historic Sonoma with shopping, wine tasting, bike tours, and other outdoor activities.
Check out our list of the best things to do in Sonoma for your next vacation.
1. Relax & Refresh
Somehow time slows down in Sonoma. The down-to-earth nature and rustic vibes fill the area, creating the perfect setting to unwind and relax. Settle into your Sonoma vacation rental, pour a glass of pinot noir or chardonnay to enjoy a delicious farm-to-table lunch, and admire the beauty of the redwood trees.
Gable by AvantStay
2. Explore Sonoma Valley Wine Country
Sonoma Valley wine country offers world-class wine, making it one of the most popular attractions in northern California. This destination is home to 60,000 acres of vineyards in over 18 wine regions, offering different flavors that will appeal to everyone.
The Sonoma County Terroir includes eighteen American Viticultural Areas which represent the diversity of this famous region and offer a larger variety of grapes than other notable wine destinations.
Traveling with a group? Booking a wine-tasting tour is one of the most fun things to do for a group of friends, family, or even a couple. Buena Vista Winery is one of the best in Sonoma. Be sure to book in advance for your group to secure a spot.
Enjoy discussing your favorites in the tasting rooms post-wine tour to decide on which wines you’ll choose to bring home to your cellar.
It is easy to create your entire getaway around the theme of wine, if that’s your passion. There are plenty of guided tours and walking tours, and with Napa Valley nearby it is easy to explore both wine making regions over the same weekend.
Explore Group Vacation Rentals Near Sonoma Wine Country
Bodega Bay is famously known as the location for Alfred Hitchcock’s “The Birds,” and this Sonoma County destination also offers a perfect day trip for whale or bird watching.
Start your day with a beautiful hike at Kortum Trail. This trail is easy for beginners who want to take in a gorgeous view of the Pacific Ocean. From March to April, you may even see a whale! For a delicious bite to eat, check out Fishetarian Market for fresh raw oysters or fish and chips. Enjoy an afternoon treat with a stop by Patrick’s Salt Water Taffy to satisfy your sweet tooth. Before heading back to yourSonoma vacation home, boost your energy with a coffee or chai latte from Captain Davey’s Ice Cream and Espresso.
Source: Sonoma County
4. Kayak The Russian River in Guerneville
Not only is the Russian River great for swimming, paddling, and kayaking, it is the perfect spot to simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the waterway. There’s plenty to explore after a day on the water. Whether you stroll through charming Guerneville for local boutiques, cafes, galleries, and farm-to-table bites to eat, or you head out to explore Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve—you can’t go wrong.
Source: Smarter Travel
5. Visit Sonoma Breweries & Distilleries
Sonoma County is known for wineries, but did you know there are also plenty of excellent breweries and distilleries to enjoy? Explore theSonoma beer trailto experience the best beverages in Sonoma County from Petaluma to Healdsburg. You’re sure to find some of the best craft beers on tap in Northern California.
Source: Sonoma County
6. Wildflowers in Sonoma Valley Regional Park
If you’re a fan of wildflowers, February through May is the perfect time to explore spring blooms in Sonoma County. You’ll find hiking trails named after flowers at Sonoma Valley Regional Park. Take an early hike through these stunning trails and prepare a picnic lunch from the local farmers market with local pinot noir or chardonnay from a Sonoma winery. You’ll be sure to find a variety of beautiful flowers to gaze at while you relax in nature.
Source: Press Democrat
Experience the Best of Sonoma Valley
Ready to experience all of the beauty, fun, and charm of Sonoma Valley has to offer? Sonoma is an excellent destination to visit with something fun to experience in every season. Use this guide to plan your next getaway and book your Sonoma vacation rental to enjoy all this lovely area has to offer.
If you’re looking for other recommendations in the area, be sure to check out our other resources:
A trip to Sonoma County, California is a bucket-list experience for many wine enthusiasts. As one of the most diverse growing regions in the country, it’s no surprise that over 400 wineries have set up shop in California wine country. From rustic family-owned wineries overlooking the Sonoma Mountains to historic chateaus with elegant rose gardens, there are endless Sonoma County wineries that appeal to every style and taste. Discover your idyllic wine country oasis with AvantStay’s collection ofSonoma County vacation homes. Read on to learn more about the best wineries near our one-of-a-kind properties.
Ledson Winery in Kenwood, also known as the Wine Castle of Sonoma Valley, is an excellent vineyard to begin your journey in wine country. The unique architecture of the French Normandy Castle on-site offers a stunning setting for an afternoon of wine tasting. Their Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir have received award-winning accolades, and we recommend purchasing one of these wines at their shop. If you’re traveling with a group, book a private tasting room so you can take it all in.
Chateau St. Jean offers one of the top Sonoma County wineries, where you can sample varietals in a historic 1920s estate. The chateau is an ultimate estate winery, backdropped by mountains and featuring lush gardens that will transport you to the Italian countryside. They offer various tasting options hosted by knowledgeable educators so you can learn more about the complex winemaking process.
Ferrari-Carano Vineyards specializes in creating complex and rich white wines. Their Sonoma County wines include Fume Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio. Join a classic wine tasting experience and embark on a winery tour overlooking the vineyards, gardens, and fountains.
The closest vacation homes to Ferrari Vineyards are Vino Blanco and Rivendell, ideal for unwinding after a tour.
Visit California’s first premium winery, Buena Vista, established in 1857! Sample award-winning wine in the historic Press House or in one of the landmark wine caves for a unique tasting experience with food and wine pairings. From Cabernet Sauvignon to Sonoma Chardonnay to sparkling wines, there is something for every palate at Buena Vista!
Paradise Ridge offers fantastic views of the Russian River Valley, wine-tasting experiences, and a beautiful sculpture garden. Sample the sustainable wines such as Sauvignon Blan, Merlot, Syrah, and Zinfandel. Then stroll through the sculpture garden before returning to AvantStay’s Green House nearby for a game of bocce ball on your private court.
Luxury Sonoma County Vacation Homes
Start planning your wine country getaway and spend your time sipping Chardonnay at the Sonoma County wineries. AvantStay provides over 20 vacation homes throughout Sonoma County, ranging from three to six bedrooms, and offering spacious living areas, outdoor dining, pools, jacuzzis, and more.
Is it really a vacation if your favorites aren’t with you? Of course not, which is why we’re making it easier than ever to bring your pets along on your next trip. Only the best for your fur baby, so let us give you the rundown on how to find an AvantStay home that’s the perfect fit for both of you.
During Booking:
Our pet-friendly home collection makes it easy to search through all of our properties that accommodate animals. Or, if you’re perusing the entire AvantStay site, keep an eye out for the pet-friendly icon on each property page. This is the best place to find specific information on any pet-specific rules or fees that apply to an individual home.
Keep an eye out for one of these messages once you find a home you’d love to rent:
If you have a registered service or emotional support animal, you may request to bring your companion to any AvantStay property—just contact experience@avantstay.com to inquire. Read more.
During Stay:
Our homes feature a variety of perks—some with extensive outdoor areas, fenced-in yards, and locations close proximity to parks, dog beaches & hiking trails—as well as mid-stay cleaning service (which comes in handy for animals that shed). Your pet is going to LOVE you for this. Ready to book your pet-friendly stay? View all of our pet-friendly homes here.
Challenge: Help new short-term rental owners prepare their recently purchased condo for ski season and get off to a profitable start.
Background
Mike and his wife have been visiting Vail every winter for the past 10 years. The two are avid skiers and love the coziness of the Bavarian-inspired village. In 2021, they finally made the decision to purchase a condo to use during ski season and occasionally during the summer months. Since the two only planned on using their condo for several weeks out of the year, they decided they wanted to operate it as a short-term rental to generate some additional income.
By the time they purchased their condo in November 2021, they were approaching Vail’s opening weekend and felt overwhelmed as they raced to prepare the condo for ski season. Because Mike and his wife live out of state, they knew they wanted a partner to help them manage their vacation home. When their real estate agent introduced them to AvantStay, they were eager to get started.
Solution
After Mike and his wife spoke with an AvantStay representative, they had a better understanding of our vacation rental management program and the entire onboarding process. Any feelings of stress or uncertainty were relieved once they learned that AvantStay would immediately take care of everything from policy and compliance to interior design, furnishing, and marketing.
To start, AvantStay’s interior designers purchased new furnishings and styled the condo with a comfortable and upscale nod to the mountains that surrounded it. Following the design upgrades, AvantStay’s in-house photography team staged and professionally photographed the space to optimize the property listing. Everything was quickly posted on AvantStay’s website, as well as other top OTAs including Airbnb and VRBO.
With the new eye-catching listing and the AvantStay team ready to handle bookings, create an exceptional guest experience, and more, the Vail condo was set for Colorado’s ski season in under one month!
Property performance
Time with AvantStay: 6 months Occupancy rate: 65% Weekend occupancy rate: 75%
Results
After just one month of going live with AvantStay, Mike’s condo received 18 bookings and reached an occupancy rate of 65%, higher than Vail’s annual average of 60%.
“We were impressed right off the bat after we spoke with our AvantStay rep who explained AvantStay’s vacation rental management program and was consistently available for follow-up questions, even over weekends,” said Mike.
“Once the onboarding team took charge, it was an effortless process from an owner standpoint. They kept us informed every step of the way, got our condo fully furnished, and dealt with any inspection issues—all within a few weeks! We are so impressed with AvantStay and know that our second home will be well cared for under their management.”
Interested in learning more about how AvantStay can boost your occupancy rate, increase your short-term rental income, and maximize your ROI? Our team of vacation rental management experts is here to help. Get started today!
At AvantStay, we believe that every property has a story—whether those are stories already written or yet to be told. Sometimes, we even find stories in progress, like that of one of our hotels, The Monkey Tree.
History
Located in Palm Springs, The Monkey Tree Hotel was originally designed in 1960 by the father of desert modernism, Albert Frey, to accommodate overflow from the famed nearby Racquet Club of Palm Springs. As the Racquet Club was a haven for the Old Hollywood set, The Monkey Tree naturally became a place celebrities like Lucille Ball and Katharine Hepburn looked to when staying in the area to escape the limelight. It’s even the subject of speculation regarding a night in 1962 where Marilyn Monroe and President John F. Kennedy stayed there together.
Eventually, the hotel passed hands and was reopened by an Orange County doctor as a clothing-optional gay resort under the name Legacy. In fact, you can still see the faint lettering of the name at the bottom of the pool near a submerged bench. After Legacy came and went, it was the Terra Cotta Inn for a while, which was once called “the most mainstream nudist resort in America” by CBS. The Terra Cotta Inn closed in 2015, at which point the resort changed hands again to become The Monkey Tree. Six years later, in June of 2021, The Monkey Tree became a part of the AvantStay portfolio. We’re proud and excited to take on this history-rich property and continue its legacy.
What to Expect
Whether you’re at the pool under one of our retro umbrellas or on your private patio, the Monkey Tree is a perfect place to relax and unwind. One of the reasons Monroe and Kennedy would have chosen the Monkey Tree is its privacy—a feature that remains to this day. So if it’s an intimate location you’re after, look no further.
Sixteen suites dot the property, each with colorful, personality-filled furnishings. Five suites contain a kitchenette and bar, while two contain a larger patio. It’s the perfect place to catch up with some friends, play some ping pong and board games, and enjoy your vacation.
Ways You Can Stay
The Monkey Tree’s privacy, along with its size, makes it perfect for a hotel buyout—something you can easily book here. We also have individual rooms or sets of rooms, so The Monkey Tree is an ideal getaway no matter the size of your group.
Coachella Valley is a desert oasis in Southern California. It’s famous for its music festivals, but there are plenty of things to do year-round. Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Coachella Valley.
Cathedral City
Cathedral City is a desert oasis situated between Palm Springs and Indio. This small town is home to various attractions, including museums, art galleries, and native plant gardens. In addition, visitors can enjoy golfing, hiking, and horseback riding.
The Cathedral City Hot Air Balloon Festival is held each year in November and celebrates the area’s heritage with food, music, and entertainment.
Elsewhere, Coachella Valley History Museum is another popular attraction, displaying different artifacts that tell the story of the area’s past. Cathedral City has something to offer everyone, whether they are looking for culture or relaxation.
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
Coachella Valley is home to some of the country’s best music and arts festivals, attracting people from all over the world. In particular, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival draws in hundreds of thousands of thanks to its mix of world-renowned musicians, up-and-coming artists, and fashion.
The festival takes place over two weekends in April and features a different lineup of performers each year. Aside from music, there are art installations, food vendors, and other activities.
Source: The New York Times
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is one of the best things to do in Coachella Valley. This zoo is dedicated to desert animals and plants, from Arabian Oryx and Caracals to Coyotes and the Sand Cat.
Animals are not the only attraction here as the zoo also has a beautiful botanical garden and hosts many educational events throughout the year.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is one of the most popular attractions in the Coachella Valley. The hiking trails wind through the rocky landscape, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding desert.
Besides the incredible scenery, hiking through Joshua Tree National Park is a fantastic way to experience nature. Several activities are available in the area, such as rock climbing and guided tours.
What’s more, Joshua Tree National Park contains the Cholla Cactus Garden, the enigmatic Skull Rock, and Keys Ranch. The latter is an evocative, preserved remnant of Joshua Tree’s early settler past and features tours led by a park ranger.
Source: Recreation
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is one of Palm Springs‘ most famous attractions. This iconic tramway takes passengers from the Valley floor to the top of Mount San Jacinto, offering stunning views of the desert landscape.
At the top of the tramway are several hiking trails and a restaurant, making it an excellent place to spend a day in nature.
Palm Springs Air Museum
This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of aviation and showcasing vintage aircraft. Here, you can explore exhibits on the history of flight and see aerial photographs of Palm Springs dating back to World War II.
For a more immersive experience, the air museum offers flight simulator experiences and airplane rides, making it a must-visit for any aviation enthusiast.
Source: BringFido
Pioneertown
Pioneertown is a small town located in the Mojave Desert. It was founded in 1946 as a movie set for Western films. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
Befitting its Western origins, you can horseback ride, check out the indie bar Pappy and Harriet’s, see the remnants of the 19th Century Lost Horse Mine, or head outdoors to stargaze at a sky relatively free of light pollution.
The Salton Sea
The Salton Sea is a saline lake created in the early 1900s when Colorado River water accidentally ended up in the area. Today, it’s a hotspot for birdwatching, as it’s home to the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge.
Palm Springs Natural Hot Springs
There are several natural hot springs located in the Coachella Valley. The most popular spot for swimming is typically Palm Springs, where there are many different hot springs.
It’s said that the waters have healing properties. Whether or not that’s the case, it’s still a great way to relax after a long day trip.
Source: Visit Greater Palm Springs
The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Various exhibitions and programs educate visitors about the tribe’s history and feature artifacts dating back thousands of years.
The museum is also home to a research library, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in the history of the Coachella Valley.
Rancho Mirage Wine and Food Festival
The Rancho Mirage Wine and Food Festival is a yearly event attracting the area’s best restaurants, wineries, and breweries.
Attendees can sample food and drink from around the world while enjoying live music and entertainment. Whether you’re a foodie or a wine lover, the Rancho Mirage Wine and Food Festival is an event not to be missed.
Indian Canyons
The Indian Canyons are home to various plants and animals and offer stunning views of the desert landscape. There are many hiking trails in the canyons, and visitors can also take part in ranger-led tours.
This area was home to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and there are glimpses of their presence dotted throughout. The Indian Canyons are open to the public from October to July. Murray Canyon features the “Indian Canyons Trading Post,” where visitors can get refreshments and purchase souvenirs.
Source: Visit Palm Springs
Mount San Jacinto
Mount San Jacinto is the tallest mountain in the Coachella Valley, delivering stunning views of the desert landscape. Camping and picnicking are popular in San Jacinto State Park, with plenty of beautiful trails to explore. The views from the top of the mountain are breathtaking, and it’s well worth the effort to hike to the summit.
Palms to Pines Scenic Byway
Are you looking for a fun road trip to Coachella Valley? Then look no further than the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway!
This beautiful drive takes you through some of the Valley’s most stunning scenery, from palm-lined roads to rocky mountain vistas. You’ll also pass by countless attractions, including Joshua Tree National Park, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the Indian Canyons, the Santa Rosa, and the San Jacinto Mountains.
Designated a National Forest Scenic Byway in 1993, it stretches for some 67 miles. Be sure to check the weather before taking this route as there can be hazardous conditions in winter.
The Cabot’s Pueblo Museum
Cabot’s Pueblo Museum is located in a replica of an ancient Indian pueblo. It has numerous artifacts and exhibitions delving into the history of pueblos and the Cabot tribe.
This museum is home to the “Trading Post,” a gift shop featuring indigenous art, books, toys, jewelry, and more.
Source: Wikipedia
Charles M. Schulz Museum
The Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa honors the life and work of cartoonist Charles M. Schulz. Here, you can learn about his work and life through a selection of exhibits, as well as a research library. Visitors can also take part in workshops and classes, giving people a chance to learn about the art of cartooning.
Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve
The Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve is home to a diverse population of plants and animals. In addition, it offers several hikes, such as the Desert Bird Walk, the Tour of Two Oases, and the Explore the Ecology of a Fault Line Oasis Hike.
Palm Springs Art Museum
If you’re looking for things to do in Coachella Valley, the downtown Palm Springs Art Museum should definitely be on your list!
This family-friendly museum is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon, whether for a day trip or a weekend getaway. It features an array of exhibits, including a permanent collection of works by local artists.
There’s also a hands-on activity area for kids and a cafe where you can grab a bite to eat.
Source: Palm Springs
Desert Adventure
If you’re looking for a desert adventure, there’s no better place to find it than Coachella Valley. Home to the Mojave and Colorado deserts, the Valley has no shortage of attractions to keep you busy.
Guided tours are an immersive way to explore the area and learn about the unique desert ecosystem. Many companies offer 4WD tours that take you off the beaten path and into some of the most remote corners of the desert.
You can also find guided hikes, mountain biking tours, and even hot air balloon rides.
El Paseo Shopping District
The El Paseo Shopping District is a must-see for anyone visiting the Coachella Valley. With its upscale shops and restaurants, it has a diverse selection of places to find gifts for friends and family or to treat yourself to a new outfit.
In addition, El Paseo is home to art galleries, spas, and boutiques, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring. And with its convenient location in the heart of Palm Desert, the El Paseo Shopping District is easy to get to from anywhere in the Valley.
Sunnylands
Found in Rancho Mirage, Sunnylands is a historic site that was once the winter retreat of US Presidents and world leaders.
Today, it is open to the public and has much to see and do, from guided tours to picnics on the lawn.
Sunnylands maintains a visitors center, which features exhibits on the history of the property and its famous guests.
Source: Sunset
Old Town La Quinta
Old Town La Quinta is a mid-century modern marvel in the heart of the Coachella Valley. This quaint community is home to art galleries, vintage shops, and delicious restaurants.
Moreover, you can enjoy numerous activities, such as horseback riding, golf, and hiking. And, if you’re looking for an extended stay, there are vacation rentals right in the center of all the action!
So, whether you’re visiting for the day or spending a week in the desert, a trip to La Quinta’s Old Town is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip.
The Coachella Valley Preserve
Coachella Valley Preserve is one of the best things to do in Coachella Valley. Situated on the San Andreas Fault lines, the preserve is home to black-tailed jackrabbits, bobcats, and sidewinders.
Visitors can hike through the desert landscape, which is filled with cacti and Joshua trees, or take a jeep tour of the fault lines.
The preserve has a visitor center with exhibits on the area’s history and wildlife.
Coachella Valley Vista Point
Located on Highway 74, Coachella Valley Vista Point is a great place to stop to take in the views. The vista point offers a panoramic look at the Valley, including the San Jacinto Mountains, Joshua Tree National Park, and the Salton Sea. Besides its picturesque sights, this tranquil spot is perfect for enjoying a picnic while watching the sunset.
Source: Marriott Bonvoy Traveler
Desert Holocaust Memorial
Located in Palm Desert, this poignant memorial honors the six million Jews who were murdered during the Holocaust.
The monument features a series of outdoor sculptures depicting scenes from the Holocaust, a meditation garden, and an audio tour that tells the story of the Jewish people during this dark time in history.
The Desert Holocaust Memorial is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free.
The 25 Best Things To Do in Coachella Valley—Wrapping Up
There’s no shortage of things to do in Coachella Valley, whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or just a chance to relax. For music lovers, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is a must-attend event, while the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway boasts breathtaking views of the area.
History buffs will enjoy exploring the Palm Springs Air Museum and Pioneertown, and nature lovers can’t miss Joshua Tree National Park. But, of course, no visit to Coachella Valley would be complete without spending some time soaking in the Palm Springs natural hot springs. Whatever your interests, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy in this desert oasis.
And for the perfect place to stay during your visit, be sure to check out AvantStay. We offer a wide variety of vacation rentals in Coachella Valley, from golf resort homes to lakeside luxury estates. So book your stay today and start planning your perfect desert getaway!
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.
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 mountain cabin rentals.
The importance of vacation rental amenities
In competitive markets, like Pigeon Forge and Asheville, 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 home theater or indoor pool, showcase these in some of the first photos on your listing page to grab guests’ attention. Before we reveal what the top mountain 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 mountain 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 mountain markets. Below are our findings from one year of performance metrics from our Asheville, Black Mountain, and Smoky Mountains cabin rentals.
Indoor pools
Give guests an amenity they can enjoy on snowy days in, warm summer nights, and anytime in between. Adding an indoor pool to your vacation rental is the #1 amenity investment you can make. Vacation rental cabins with an indoor pool see these premiums compared to homes without this amenity:
198% higher ADRs
57% greater RevPAU (revenue per available unit)
26% more revenue per bedroom
Home theaters
Another solid vacation rental amenity in mountain markets is a home theater. Guests will be eager to grab the popcorn and relax after a day of exploring. Homes with a theater see 77% higher ADRs, 76% greater RevPAU, and 20% more revenue per bedroom than properties without a home theater.
Game rooms
Bring on some friendly competition with an indoor game room. Even though your guests will be embracing the great outdoors, a game room is a nice amenity to have for rainy or snowy days, or for when your guests want a chill night in. Arcade games, foosball, billiards, and ping pong tables are great options. Homes with a game room drive 42% higher ADRs, 49% greater RevPAU, and 25% more revenue per bedroom than properties without.
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!
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.
If you’re looking for things to do on Hilton Head Island, look no further than this travel guide.
Hilton Head Island is one of the most popular destinations on the East Coast, with 2.5 million tourists visiting the best beaches, bike paths, and boutiques each year. It’s a top destination for families and couples alike—and it’s easy to see why.
The island was connected to the mainland by a bridge in 1956, making it easy to get there. The island is just 35 miles away from Savannah, Georgia, and 95 miles away from Charleston, South Carolina.
There are 12 miles of beautiful beaches that you can enjoy all year round, as well as protected wildlife preserves where you can learn about the natural environment of the island.
You’ll find dolphin tours and boat charters available at many locations around the island, and bike trails are great for exploring nature at your own pace or taking an afternoon ride with friends or family members (just be sure to bring your bikes!).
Restaurants abound throughout Hilton Head Island—from casual fare at places like Red Lobster or Olive Garden to more upscale options like Ruth’s Chris Steak House or Bonefish Grill—so you’ll never have trouble finding something delicious no matter what kind of meal you’re craving!
Hilton Head Island
Readers of Travel+Leisure Magazine selected Hilton Head Island as the #1 Island in the Continental United States and the #1 Island in the United States for multiple years. It ranked as the #2 Best Islands in the World in 2017. Hilton Head Island was chosen as the best island in the United States by Conde Nast Traveler readers.
1. Shelter Cove Towne Centre
Shelter Cove Towne Centre
Shelter Cove Towne Centre is an oceanfront shopping and dining area built around a marina. The waterfront walking village has 290,000 square feet of shopping, dining, and activities.
It’s a great place to go to get some fresh air and enjoy the views of boats and salt marshes. It’s also where you can find many resort-style stores and high-end attire.
Shelter Cove Towne Centre is also easy to get to via bike or car from Palmetto Dunes. Located mid-island, it’s the perfect spot for a day trip!
2. Daufuskie Island
The Island Packet
If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping to a secluded island, Daufuskie is your place. Located just off the coast of South Carolina, it’s accessible only by boat or ferry—so you’ll feel like you’re on your private island.
Daufuskie Island has a long history: Spanish moss oak trees, crowd-free beaches, and a rich Gullah culture all make this one of the most unique islands in the Carolinas.
It was first settled in the 1730s by English colonists who established several plantations on the island. After the Civil War, freed slaves found themselves on Daufuskie, forming the Gullah community; this allowed their culture and language to grow in an isolated place.
Today visitors can explore off-road biking trails, paddleboard or kayak waterways, ride horses at the farm, golf along the beach—or take a self-guided tour along Robert Kennedy History Trail.
Art studios and galleries abound, along with rum distilleries, breweries, and community farms that grow organic produce for the local farmers’ market.
If you’re looking for a place to get away from it all, grab a car rental and head over to Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge for a nature excursion. With no zoo and only limited access by foot or bike, this refuge has tons of wildlife and provides a great escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge came about in 1985 as part of an effort to protect the environment and wildlife of South Carolina. The refuge encompasses 4053 acres, including Pinckney Island (open for public use), Corn Island, Big Harry Island, Little Harry Island, Buzzard Island, and the surrounding waters.
There are 14 miles of hiking and biking trails through freshwater ponds, salt marshes, and maritime forests. You’ll see alligators, turtles, deer—even white ibis!
There are several ways to visit Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge: by boat, from the beach, or by kayak/canoe. You can park at Daufuskie Landing on Daufuskie Island and then take one of their tours for about $17 per person (including a boat ride).
4. Stoney-Baynard Plantation
Landmark Hunter
The Stoney-Baynard Ruins are a national historic site located on Hilton Head Island. Captain Jack Stoney built them in the 1790s, and they served as antebellum plantation houses overlooking Calibogue Sound.
Legend says that Captain Jack Stoney lost a poker game to William Baynard in 1840, and he lost the property to Baynard. Baynard’s family occupied it until Union forces invaded Hilton Head in 1861, and the Baynards left. It became the Union headquarters before being burned down.
Paranormal activity has been reported at the ruins—apparitions of a man have been seen walking through the ruins. Some think this is William Baynard, who died after being shot during the Civil War.
The plantation house museum holds many artifacts from early settlers of the island, including furniture and household goods like plates, bowls, and glasses. You can also see some of the original documents that were signed when Stoney Baynard Plantation was established as well as an old map of Hilton Head Island.
5. Harbour Town
The Crazy Crab
Whether you’re in Hilton Head for the first time or have been coming back year after year, there are plenty of things to do at Harbour Town.
If you’ve got a car, drive up to Harbour Town Golf Links and watch golfers hit the ball around the course. It’s one of the best golf courses in South Carolina, and it hosts the RBC Heritage tournament every spring. If you don’t have a car, there are always cabs waiting outside the gates of Sea Pines Resort.
If you’re feeling adventurous, climb up to the iconic candy cane-striped lighthouse for a fantastic view of Harbour Town’s yachts and rental properties. There are also many restaurants and shops in this area if you want to grab lunch or a souvenir before heading down the hill.
Harbour Town is also home to The Liberty Oak at The Harbour Town Yacht Basin—a live music venue where local bands play every night from April through October (free entry for everyone). If you’re looking for something different, try renting out one of their boats or taking a dolphin-watching excursion—both will get you closer than ever before!
6. Harbour Town Lighthouse
Harbour Town Lighthouse
The Harbour Town Lighthouse is the only museum on Hilton Head Island that tells the story of lighthouses and the people who operated them.
Located in the Yacht Basin, this 50-year-old museum has an extensive collection of lighthouses and how they used them for navigation, as well as a 16-foot hand-built model of the Eagle, a historic 295-foot cutter.
The Lighthouse Legends Tour features a climb up to the top of the lighthouse to learn about local history at each level. You’ll also learn about lighthouse keepers who spent their lives tending to these critical structures.
The Coast Guard Exhibit features equipment used by Coast Guard members domestically and abroad.
7. Folly Field Beach Park
Folly Field Beach Park
Folly Field Beach Park is an excellent place for a day of sun, fun, and food. Located in the heart of Hilton Head, Folly Field has something for everyone: playgrounds with slides, swings, and teeter-totters; picnic tables; volleyball courts; basketball courts; picnicking areas; a pier with benches overlooking the island’s incredibly blue waters.
If you’re looking for some exercise beyond swimming or playing on the beach there are also walking paths around the perimeter of this lovely park that lead through wooded areas where you may find deer grazing or birds nesting in trees.
8. Coligny Beach Park
Coligny Beach Park
Coligny Beach Park is the most popular beach in Hilton Head. It’s a vast, sandy shoreline with plenty of room for you and your family to spread out, and it offers amenities like restrooms and showers, changing rooms, benches, and gazebos. You’ll also find coffee shops, ice cream shops, seafood restaurants—and even rentals of umbrellas and beach chairs!
The best part? Free beach access is available 24 hours a day during the summer months (March through October). Lifeguards work between 6 am-9 pm from March to October, and 6 am to 6 pm from November through February.
There’s always something to do at Coligny Beach Park. Events have included sunrise yoga, a winter polar plunge, Sunday church services, and a bicycle obstacle course.
9. Coligny Plaza
Coligny Plaza
Coligny Plaza is the perfect place for a day of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The plaza boasts 60 stores, including clothing, jewelry, gifts, bicycles and rentals, toy stores, and a pharmacy. Dozens of restaurants include bakeries, sandwich shops, cafes, bars and grills, and ice cream shops.
There are also special events throughout the year, such as the annual Jazz Festival in May and the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in November.
Coligny Theatre or The Island Theater is an “art house” mostly showing films by independent producers. It is located on the second floor of Coligny Plaza.
10. Lowcountry Celebration Park
Carolina Parks and Play
Lowcountry Celebration Park has a lot to offer! Here are some of our favorite things to do.
Adventure Playground, named after Captain William Hilton’s ship, is the perfect place for your kids to let loose and run around. They’ll feel like they’re on a pirate ship with all this playground equipment!
If you want to spend some time in the sun, take a stroll through the Open Pavilion and relax on the lawn. The lighted perimeter walk will keep you safe as you enjoy this beautiful setting.
The Setting Sun Sculpture is one of Lowcountry Celebration Park’s most popular features—you can’t miss it! If you love art, you’ll love this piece.
Fitness stations are provided so that you can stay active while enjoying your time here in Hilton Head. Just bring your mat or towel if you want to take advantage of them!
If you need a break from all that activity, take some time out at The Sandbox Children’s Museum. They have tons of fun things to do and exhibits to learn from for kids of all ages.
11. Driessen Beach
Driessen Beach
If you’re looking for a change of pace from Coligny Beach Park, Driessen is for you. It’s tucked away in a wooded area, which means it’s less crowded than other beaches in the area.
Amenities include restrooms and outdoor showers, plus a picnic pavilion and playgrounds. Grills are available on-site, and bike racks are available nearby. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months.
The resort along Driessen Beach offers food options if you want to go off-site while visiting the beach, but there are also many restaurants nearby that offer food delivery services if you want to spend more time at the beach!
Driessen Beach is just as easy to access as Coligny Beach Park—just follow the long wooden boardwalk from your parking area down to the shoreline.
12. Islanders Beach Park
Islanders Beach Park
Islanders Beach Park is the perfect place for you to relax, unwind and make memories with your family and friends.
The park offers sweeping views of the water. The boardwalk through the dunes will lead you down to the beach matting that will help you navigate the sand safely. There’s also a playground where kids can burn off some energy before settling in for a picnic at one of our pavilions.
The park features amenities including restrooms and outdoor showers, a water fountain, and more.
13. Coastal Discovery Museum
Coastal Discovery Museum’s Facebook
Coastal Discovery Museum is a place to learn about the local area, interact with animals, and explore nature.
This 68-acre property features live oaks, a butterfly habitat, and trails. Some gardens host native plants used by early settlers for food and medicine. Guided kayak tours, jet ski rentals, and bottlenose dolphin cruises are offered at the museum’s marina.
The Museum barn houses rare Marsh Tacky horses. Honey Horn Slave Project archaeologists discovered slave cabins and artifacts here. The project is still ongoing, so discoveries are expected!
Coastal Discovery Museum is just 4 miles south of Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. A $5 suggested donation allows you access to this educational experience.
14. Sea Pines Forest Preserve
Living the Dream
Sea Pines Forest Preserve is a 600-acre protected land for alligators, snakes, deer, and more than 200 species of birds.
A guided boat tour or wagon is available at no cost. Fishing charters or horseback rides are also available for a nominal fee.
The Warner W Plahs Wildflower Field is a popular attraction during the spring and summer months when the flowers are in bloom.
The Fish Island or Vanishing Swamp is another popular attraction that allows visitors to explore an area where the water level is low enough to see many historic artifacts from Native Americans who lived there thousands of years ago.
The Sea Pines Shell Ring is an archaeological site dating back four thousand years that was used as a gathering place for early Native Americans. It was made up of clams and muscles as well as oysters.
Outside guests are charged a daily $9 visiting fee (cash only) to enter the gated enclave at Sea Pines Resort.
15. Bluffton
Visit Bluffton
Kayaking, biking, hiking, and fishing along the May River are all great ways to explore the area. If you’re looking for something a little more guided and educational, consider taking a tour through Old Town National Register Historic District with 80 historic structures.
Bluffton also has 120 cultural attractions and hosts three dozen festivals and events throughout the year.
Palmetto Axes ax throwing is a great place to get your adrenaline pumping while learning how to throw some axes! They will also teach you how to create your personalized wood handle.
Tanger Factory Outlet is a great place to find discounted designer clothes without having to leave town. You’ll find brands like Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Coach, and more here!
If you’re looking for art galleries, then look no further than the Art Gallery of Local Artisans, which has been showcasing local artists since the late 1980s. The gallery specializes in pottery, sculpture, and painting from various local artists from all over South Carolina.
The May River Golf Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus overlooking the river, has eco-friendly turf and white-sand bunkers – what more could you ask for?
The entire city is surrounded by water and greenery. The waterfront in Bluffton Beach is one of South Carolina’s most popular attractions for swimming and sunbathing—especially since there are so many public access points!
16. The Sandbox: An Interactive Children’s Museum
The Sandbox
The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a hands-on, interactive museum for early childhood up to age 12. Kids explore creativity through themed activities and exhibits. They offer free play and exploration in a museum environment with staff-guided programming, activities, and crafts.
In addition to their main museum, we have two additional locations: The Shrimp Boat Playground, located at DuBois Park in downtown Bluffton; and the Maker Space, located on Bluffton Parkway.
Exhibits are designed to engage children in a variety of ways—through creative play or hands-on explorations. They offer 11 different hands-on experiences for your little ones:
Kinetic sand table
Pirate ship
Two dress-up stations
Derby racetrack
Airplane flying experience
Café with a kitchen
Wind tunnel
Two arts and crafts spaces
Reading nook
Supermarket checkout line
Self-guided discovery stations allow them to explore their senses. They also offer special events like art workshops or story time with a local author.
Their goal is to provide an opportunity for children to engage with their world through an exciting atmosphere where they can explore new ideas while having fun!
17. Palmetto Dunes
Palmetto Dunes
Palmetto Dunes has a little something for everyone. For the golfers in your group, Palmetto Dunes is home to three championship golf courses. Travel and Leisure Family magazine named it the #1 family resort in the US, so you can be sure your game will be in good hands.
If you’re looking to relax on the beach, Palmetto Dunes offers 3 miles of beach access and vacation rental homes. You can also rent surfboards, umbrellas, and chairs if you want to feel like you’re really on vacation.
If you want to get out of town for a bit, there are 200 miles of bike trails, beaches, and local shops nearby to explore. If you’d rather just stick around the resort itself, there are plenty of things going on there too: an outdoor pool, beach pavilions, tennis courts, and day spa—not to mention all three golf courses!
18. Mitchelville Beach
Mitchelville Beach
Mitchelville Beach is a lesser-known beach on Hilton Head Island, but it’s a great spot for shelling and exploring.
The beach is located near the Hilton Head Island Airport, so it’s a bit secluded and rugged compared to Coligny and Folly Field. There are fewer crowds here, so if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience with fewer people around, this is the place for you!
Mitchelville Beach has restrooms and outdoor showers, as well as picnic tables where you can sit down with your friends or family and enjoy some fresh seafood.
The best part of Mitchelville Beach is that it’s better for shell collecting than swimming. The sand is coarser than what you’d find at other beaches on Hilton Head Island, which means fewer shells are being washed away by the tide. You’ll also find more salt marshes and wetlands here than other beaches on the island—and they’re beautiful in their own right.
If you visit during low tide when salt marshes and beach tide pools are visible, this is one of our favorite spots on Hilton Head Island!
19. Mitchelville Freedom Park
Mitchelville Freedom Park
Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park is the first self-governed community of former slaves in South Carolina. It was founded in 1862 when escaped slaves built a town for themselves on Hilton Head Island.
The town had roads, homes, churches, stores, and schools. The enslaved people elected officials who mandated that children between 6 and 15 receive an education—the first town in South Carolina to implement compulsory education laws.
Today Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park preserves the history and traditions of these ancestors through exhibits like replicas of Praise Houses and Homestead Houses, as well as a tool shed.
Celebrate Juneteenth and the Holiday Lights Show each year at the park. The Amenities include restrooms, free parking, walking trails, a picnic pavilion, and beach access.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a place to have some family fun, or are traveling alone and want to meet new people, HHI is the perfect destination. In addition to being an island getaway that welcomes tourists all year round, this area is also home to several attractions that will allow visitors and locals alike to enjoy themselves no matter what season they visit.
When it comes to activities while visiting Hilton Head Island, there’s no shortage of things that can be done! From walking along the beach in search of seashells and other treasures at low tide or going fishing off one of the piers on Folly Field Beach (which boasts some great views).
There are plenty of opportunities for people who enjoy sports such as swimming and surfing—plus all manner of water sports, including sailing lessons! In addition, there are many golf courses around town if golfing is your thing. Otherwise, there are also tennis courts available so both indoor/outdoor fun can be had by all!
If you’re traveling to the Oregon Coast to take advantage of the abundant and delicious clams, you’re in luck! The Northwest Zone of Oregon, which is where all of Starfish Vacation Rentals beautiful homes are, features some of the best opportunities for clamming in the state. Peak Oregon clam season in this region tends to be in May and June, though there are some great opportunities to grab these mollusks all year-round. Get the scoop on where to go clamming on the Oregon Coast, as well as how you can find the best rental homes in the region!
Take Advantage of the Peak Oregon Clam Season
First thing’s first: where to go clamming in Oregon? There are around 360 miles of coastline in Oregon. How do you find the best area to go clamming? If you’re staying in Cannon Beach, Arch Cape, Manzanita, or Rockaway Beach, you’re in luck! These towns are some of the best areas to get the delicious and sought-after razor clams. Rockaway Beach is one of our favorite spots to search for clams. In fact, if you book your home in one of our Rockaway Beach rentals, you’ll be able to clam right outside of your back door!
When is the Peak Season for Clamming
Many locals consider peak Oregon clam season to be May and June. May on the Oregon Coast offers plenty of great opportunities for both crabbing and clamming. Consider spending one day combing the beaches for clams and the next visiting Tillamook Bay, Netarts Bay, or Nehalem Bay for peak Oregon Coast crabbing. In June, bay clams is the most abundant species found along the beaches. Visitors can also enjoy the last razor clams of the season. The razor clam season in Oregon closes from July 15 to September 30 north of Tillamook Head. The limit for razor clams is the first 15 dug, meaning that diggers cannot sort or release the clams. These clams may be taken by hand, shovel, clam gun, or tube that meets the specifications of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Other species of clams available in the Northwest Zone include bay clams (which has a daily limit of 20) and purple varnish clams (which has a daily limit of 72). Any other species that you may come across are considered “other clams,” which have a daily limit of 36 in aggregate.
Source: Oregon’s Adventure Coast
Stay with AvantStay
Before you get your buckets, salt, and shovels, you need to book a gorgeous property from AvantStay. We have the best selection of homes on the Oregon Coast, perfect for families, girlfriends’ getaways, or work retreats. Whether you’re planning on booking your home early in the Oregon Coast clam season or you’d prefer to take advantage of those delicious bay clams, you can’t go wrong with our homes. When it’s time to cook those clams, take advantage of our amazing gourmet kitchens. You’ll be able to easily whip up a delicious feast for your family or traveling companions. If you’d prefer to let someone else do the work (after all, you’ve been finding clams all day!), utilize our guest services. We’ll arrange for our caterer to create a world-class feast in your own rental home. You won’t have to lift a finger to enjoy a delicious dinner!
Browse our full list of properties and book today. We look forward to having you.
