Looking for a top-tier Hilton Head retreat but you’re overwhelmed by the options on Airbnb or Vrbo? We’ve got you covered!
AvantStay offers a large selection of upscale escapes, complete with inspiring design and plenty of available upgrades via the app. With consistent experiences, group-friendly amenities, and incredible interiors, there’s no guesswork needed here.
Hilton Head offers 12 miles of gorgeous shoreline, tons of outdoor areas and preserves, and a luxe culinary and golf scene. There are plenty of beaches, nature, entertainment, and shopping to explore on the island, while the mainland remains easily accessible just over the bridge. Something as simple as a scenic drive is enough to take your breath away as you pass East-coast woods and babbling rivers. If you’re looking for something more exciting, there’s plenty of fresh seafood, live music, and rich history to explore.
With homes near the beach, surrounded by golf courses, and with incredible ocean views, AvantStay’s options are endless. No matter what’s on your “must-haves” wishlist, these seven vacation rentals have you covered.
1. Lido – I want the beach in my backyard.
A quick stroll down your private boardwalk puts you on the shores of Singleton Beach. At Lido, sandy shores are literally in your backyard. When you’re done lounging near the waves, a beach-facing pool and hot tub, unique indoor putting green, and a game room with billiards and shuffleboard are all waiting back at home.
2. Beachwalk – I need lots of space.
With three stories and seven bedrooms, Beachwalk has enough style and space for your entire group. The beach is minutes away, and you’ll even have a private pool and pier overlooking open space right outside. Bonus! This stunning home has a deck and/or balcony on each level, so everyone has room to take in the fresh air and Hilton Head sunsets.
3. Dory –Put me near the eats!
If you’re looking to experience the best of Hilton Head’s food scene, Dory lands you near some of our favorites. From fine seafood to casual bites, there’s something here for any palate. At home, you’ll find a private pool and hot tub, game room and yoga studio, and rustic yet contemporary beachy decor.
4. Hilton Lagoon –I’m ready to hit the green.
Surrounded by lush courses, Hilton Lagoonputs the best of the area’s golfing at your fingertips. Choose from multiple championship and luxury golf courses, all nearby. Back at home, your backyard features a private pool surrounded by greenery, giving you a luxe sense of privacy after a day of perfecting your swing.
5. Sandpiper –I want to fall asleep to the sound of waves.
Modern design with crashing waves right outside. At Sandpiper, chic details like a spiral staircase, wide hammock, and interior fireplace combine with unbeatable backyard beach access to give you a Hilton Head experience like never before. Throw open the windows. There’s no shortage of fresh, salty air here.
6. Birdie- Give me chic neutrals and coastal-inspired design.
Birdie boasts a contemporary aesthetic like no other. From al fresco meals at the gorgeous outdoor dining table to music sessions near the guitar and record player, every corner of this home feels like a photo op. Chill out among the bright neutrals in the front living room and sunny dining area, or get moody with the darker decor in the second family area.
After lounging by your private pool, head out to explore Harbour Town, where you can enjoy restaurants, shopping, watersports, live music, and the famed cane-striped lighthouse.
7. Sea Pine – I love tons of outdoor space.
With three massive deck areas, Sea Pine gives you space to spread out. Gather around the fire pit, dine under open skies at the outdoor table, or grab a lounger under an umbrella. Huge sliding glass doors and floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room bring the outside in, where you’ll find stone finishes, modern decor, and four bright bedrooms. Late-night hangouts are a breeze in the airy game room featuring billiards, a wet bar, and a double-sided fireplace.
Choosing a location is the first step in planning the perfect vacation and there are a few hoops you have to jump through and boxes that must be ticked to ensure that every member of your crew, no matter their age, has something to enjoy. We’ve got ten expert tips to help you find the perfect accommodation for every family.
Some locations will have pools, some will be located on the beach, some will be deep within lush forest, and some will offer panoramic views from mountainous strongholds. These all sound great, but matching the location to your families requirements is so important; imagine dragging a newborn in a stroller up a steep mountainous driveway, or keeping a toddler away from a pool without borders or constantly worrying about the busy road outside; doesn’t sound too relaxing, right?
Choosing a property that’s right for your family and their needs could make or break the trip; so what are the best ways to ensure you get it right? Well, there are a few things to look out for whilst ensuring you book the perfect home away from home for you and yours, and we are going to break down some of the most important tips.
Choose the Right Type of Trip
As previously mentioned, matching your kid-friendly vacation rentals to your family’s priorities is a crucial step. Not only will it mean you all enjoy your stay, but you’ll also find yourself automatically narrowing down your search field and there are a lot of options out there.
Starting with the age of your kids is a good place to begin; if they are young enough to have their own passions then focus on the things you love to do as a family. Hiking is a great way to get the kids interacting with the outdoors and the mental health benefits cannot be understated for adult and child. National forests and parks offer superb, family friendly trails littered with benches, picnic spots and exciting viewpoints; perfect for all ages.
If you and the family are into the beach-bum vibe then coastal locations will obviously offer everything you need; if your kids are old enough to try surfing, sailing or other water sports, then choosing a spot that caters for this would be a huge bonus.
Some people prefer to sit on the sand enjoying the sun’s rays as it kisses their skin, while their kids play in the sand or fish in the shallows. If that sounds like your kind of thing then choosing a great sandy beach that looks west is the perfect way to ensure long and lazy afternoons of family good times, topped off with a gorgeous sunset of course.
If you’re raising little action and adventure superstars who love the outdoors and want to experience the natural world to its fullest extent then activity centers and holiday parks could be a great way to go. The activities these places can offer are seemingly limitless: rental bikes, kayaking, abseiling, waterparks, archery, go-karting, zip-lining, and more. These activities will give your kids the confidence to try new things, and offer your family an unforgettable trip.
High Tide by AvantStay
Don’t Forget the Needs of the Adults
While considering the needs of the kids is always the number one priority, it is important to ensure that the adults are going to have a good time too. It’s really easy to get bogged down in the details of the trip and tied up in the logistics; so, take a step back and look at what the trip will offer each member of the family individually.
If you love the same things as your kids then lucky you, but you’ll still need some private space to enjoy time with your partner and relax away from the over excited buzz of the children. Consider booking somewhere with a hot tub where you can enjoy some champagne when the kids are in bed, or with access to a nice restaurant where you can spend a quality, childless evening together. Some locations will offer day care with professional sitters so you can enjoy some time in the knowledge that your kids are enjoying themselves too!
Keep an eye out for a property that offers something for adults to enjoy away from the kids or, if your budget does not allow, set a time and location where the kids are not allowed so you can take a breath and enjoy each other. Don’t forget that it’s your holiday too. Making sure you can unwind at the end of an activity-packed day and enjoy a comfortable space with your favorite person is a crucial element of a great trip.
Bronson by AvantStay
What to Look For
Now that we have narrowed down the search area, it’s time to get a little more specific. We should start looking at individual needs, and how certain properties can cater for said needs. There can be an awful lot to consider, so here is a quick breakdown of the key points:
Do the Bedroom Check
Look carefully at the photos and descriptions available to you to help understand the bedroom layout and bed situation for your crew. Try to count the individual beds using the listing’s pictures and if this is not possible then read the description thoroughly.
Failing all else you can normally message the host asking them to confirm the sleeping arrangements. Strange sleeping situations may not seem like a big deal to everyone, but for young kids developing their sleeping habits having a separate bedroom can be the difference between restful sleep and chaos.
Paramount Place by AvantStay
Location, Location, Location
Location is, as they say, everything. It’s important to try and think of the activities you’ll be doing on your vacation and whether or not you can get there on foot or with ease. If you’re going to the beach for example, you’ll need bags with toys, tents or umbrellas for shade, suncreams, picnics, snacks, towels and whatever else you bring to the beach.
If you have to drive you’ll have to consider parking, loading everything up and of course, getting the kids in. This is not always an easy task and can lead to unwanted stress, so being within walking distance of the sand might be a better way to go.
Mystic Sunset by AvantStay
Space
Space is the next big thing to ensure the success of your holiday, and it can be tricky to gauge without actually standing in the room in question. One simple thing you can do is ensure there is enough space for the kids to play. Whether that’s an outdoor space, in their bedroom or a specified playroom, is up to you; but giving them an area to burn energy is important for a stress-free vacation.
Separate spaces for eating, playing and for spending time together as a family will keep things easy, and you’re on holiday so why not treat yourself to more space!
Lakeview by AvantStay
Read Reviews
A great way to get a handle on the suitability of a location is to check out the reviews that previous vacationers have left. Try and keep an eye out for people who traveled with kids or in a family unit, as this can give you a great idea of what to expect from a property. It can be an awesome way to discover things like how well equipped the kitchen is, or how the layout of the building works in reality or even if the distance to the amenities you have chosen is as close as promised.
You must keep in mind though that reviews are subjective and focusing on the negatives can bring a lot of negativity. Something that did not work for someone else could work really well for you, so don’t get bogged down in what the reviews are saying, we are just looking at them for general tips!
Cades Cove by AvantStay
Check the Nearby Activities Available
Restaurants, shops, cinemas, beachfront cafes; whatever it is you’re looking for on your vacation you should try to ensure that you can actually access them with ease. As we know, packing up the car with kids and all the stuff you need to make it through a day is no mean feat, so try to get yourselves as close as you can to the action you seek; it will be worth it.
Miramar Manor by AvantStay
Child Safety
One of the key considerations you need to make concerns the safety of your child; things that are not a part of your day-to-day life at home can be easily overlooked on vacation. Any truly child-friendly vacation home should have these safety elements covered. It’s also worth considering nearby roads, how secure the yard is, and if there are alarm systems in place for the ultimate peace of mind.
The Pond Estate by AvantStay
How to Search for What You Need
Using a trusted site to search specifically for kid-friendly vacation rentals is the only way to go. There are several factors to consider including; hidden fees, flexibility and cancellation policies, so one that promises honesty is a great bet. We all know kids can be unpredictable and things like illness, new commitments and changing amounts of people can all affect your upcoming trip.
You need to use a site that offers travel insurance with good flexibility to ensure the safety of your hard-earned cash, and your vacation itself. Being able to change the days without incurring any extra cost or even cancelling the whole trip last minute is crucial, but also adding things like extra family members or activities at late notice can make all the difference.
The Matterhorn Manor by AvantStay
Make the Most of Your Next Family Vacation
So, there you have it; some top tips on planning the perfect family vacation. Vacation homes help you avoid the drama that comes with not having enough beds, being miles away from your required amenities, all being crammed into one room, or losing your money due to last-minute changes. Be organized and give your people the absolute best chance at finding the perfect spot for you all to enjoy together, and make some lifelong memories as you go!
Although there’s uncertainty in the broader market, there’s nothing uncertain about the exponential growth in the US short-term rental market. Demand is up 26.7% year-over-year, with travel continuing to grow coming out of the pandemic. Demand and bookings are predicted to see continued growth through the rest of 2022, in addition to supply which is expected to increase by 21%. This rise in available listings may be a stressor to short-term rental owners and investors, but with some simple marketing tricks, you can make your vacation rental shine among the competition. Check out these eight vacation rental marketing tips to improve visibility, drive more bookings, and increase your revenue!
8 tips to supercharge how you market your vacation rental
Optimize your vacation rental listing
The basis of vacation rental marketing begins with a well-optimized listing. That is your first touchpoint with potential guests and entices them to book a stay. Start with your title, description, and keywords. Your title should describe your vacation rental and leave 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 stand out from the competition.
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 day on the slopes? Or a game room for some friendly competition and family game nights? Use these in your listing to encourage travelers to hit that “Book Now” button.
When crafting 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 could be “private beachfront rental in Hilton Head” or “dog-friendlyJoshua Tree vacation rental.”
Use high-quality professional photographs
Capture guest attention on your listing with eye-catching photos. Hire a professional photographer to take high-resolution photos of your vacation rental that accurately reflect the space, amenities, views, and what guests can expect when they walk into your home. Take it one step further and add Matterport images so guests can take a virtual tour of your property. Update these photos and descriptions after making any changes to your home so guests can see the latest and greatest (and so they don’t leave negative reviews about an inaccurate listing).
Price strategically for year-round success
Pricing your short-term rental 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 compared to similar homes in the area, you could lose potential bookings. Researching your local market is important so you can accurately and competitively charge for bedroom count, amenities, views, proximity to local attractions, and other key features.
List your property on multiple platforms
Promoting your vacation rental on multiple online travel agencies (OTAs) gets your home in front of more people and means more potential bookings. Airbnb, Vrbo, Expedia, and Booking.com are popular OTAs for vacation rental homes. Make sure you understand each site’s criteria and functionality for listing your property, and create a strategy for managing your listing across each. You’ll have to stay on top of guidelines, optimizing your listing, guest inquiries, reservations, and reviews for each platform to enhance your home’s performance.
Start a vacation rental blog
Flaunt your local expertise with a vacation rental blog on your website. A blog is an easy way to increase your visibility on search engines. With a thoughtful SEO strategy and the use of relevant keywords, you can drive more traffic to your website and increase bookings.
Travelers appreciate recommendations and tips from a local. Pair your expertise with your keyword research to write helpful content for potential guests. You can also repurpose your blog content to share on social media. Some articles that our AvantStay writers create for our blog include topics like:
With 4.6 billion social media users worldwide, it’d be a mistake not to incorporate these platforms into your vacation rental marketing strategy. Social media is a great (and free) way to tap into new audiences and keep your past guests engaged so they are inspired to come back. Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are popular among travelers looking to plan their next trip, so be sure to show off your home and its amenities across these sites.
Also, consider investing in social media ads to amplify your reach. Facebook and Pinterest make it easy to narrow your target audience. You can choose to show your ads to your ideal guest by using filters like location, age, interests, and more. This allows you to get the most out of your advertising budget while optimizing for bookings.
Build an email marketing strategy
Keep past guests and interested subscribers engaged and eager to book a stay at your vacation rental with marketing emails. Easy-to-use platforms like Mailchimp and Constant Contact offer newsletter templates and simple customization options so you can promote your home to travelers in just a few clicks. These platforms also allow you to keep track of your subscribers and measure email performance. Set a regular schedule, like once a month or every other week, so subscribers know when to expect your newsletter.
People receive dozens of emails a day, so keep your newsletter content to one or two ideas to keep your readers’ attention. You can use email marketing to promote reduced rates or specials, and even provide travel tips and recommendations.
Create an exceptional guest experience
While it may not be a traditional marketing strategy, going above and beyond for your guests can improve your vacation rental marketing efforts. Potential guests will look at your ratings and reviews when deciding to book a stay at your home, so don’t overlook this step in your marketing strategy. Happy guests leave positive reviews, which drives more bookings, repeat visitors, and more vacation rental income.
Providing thoughtful items like a welcome package and vacation rental guest book are little details that guests will appreciate. Is this a holiday celebration or a wedding anniversary? This personal touch goes a long way to give your guests the experience they are looking for. Non-negotiable services like quick communication, leaving the home well-stocked, and CDC-grade cleaning are all key to driving five-star ratings.
Don’t be afraid to ask your guests to leave a review after their stay, and always respond to negative reviews in a professional manner. Also, consider providing incentives for guests to refer friends and family to book a stay in the future.
Ramp up your vacation rental marketing with AvantStay
Creating a vacation rental marketing strategy (and sticking to it!) can be a lot of work. If you’d rather rely on a team of experts to market your vacation rental and maximize bookings for you, look no further. Partner with a vacation rental management company like AvantStay to earn more revenue and plug into a suite of services that will take your vacation rental to the next level.
Our dedicated teams at AvantStay will do all of the above—and more—on your behalf. We offer end-to-end, flexible 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 reap the rewards.
Interested in learning more about what it means to partner with AvantStay? Our team is ready to help. Get in touch with our vacation rental experts today!
Are you looking to plan the perfect family vacation with a toddler? With AvantStay, you can enjoy a stress-free vacation with your little one in some of the most beautiful destinations across the United States. Our kid-friendly vacation homes have high chairs and pack & plays available, so you don’t need to worry about packing these big and bulky items.
When you stay with us, you can enjoy add-ons like a personal chef or fridge stocking on arrival, so that you don’t have to waste time dragging your kids to the grocery store to stock up on snacks. You can also choose to add on a poolside massage—because we can bet you need one after running after your little one!
Let’s take a look at just a few of our favorite toddler-friendly AvantStay homes that are perfect for traveling families.
Halo — Destin, Florida
Halo is a coastal bungalow that is sure to win your heart! This 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom vacation home boasts a pool with a safety fence for the little ones, a fire pit and an outdoor bar with TV for the adults. There’s also a separate carriage house with an additional bedroom which makes for the perfect place for your toddler’s afternoon nap.
Treehouse — Breckenridge, Colorado
Treehouse is a stunning 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom vacation rental that can accommodate up to 14 guests. The home is a little kid’s dream with a large yard, foosball table, and a fully functioning treehouse with a slide that is available for use in the non-winter months. The adults can enjoy stargazing in the hot tub out back once the little ones are knocked out for the night.
Woodfall — Berkshires, Massachusetts
Bring your toddlers to Woodfall and enjoy a nostalgic vacation among the trees in the stunning Berkshires. With a vast yard featuring a swing set, hammock and natural fire pit, there’s plenty of space for children to play. The deck above is perfect for open-air meals with a grill and dining table. Inside, the common area has vaulted ceilings and many windows for natural light, while an extra recreation room on the lower floor provides even more space for everyone to spread out and stay entertained.
Romero — San Diego, California
Come to Romero for a fun-filled family vacation in San Diego! With lots of exciting activities like whale watching, paddleboarding, hiking, and golfing, you and the kids will have plenty to do. At this toddler-friendly vacation home, you’ll find a playset with swings and a slide and a large backyard for playtime. Cap off your nights with s’mores by the firepit for a family memory you won’t forget.
Parker —Inlet Beach, Florida
Say hello to Parker – the perfect vacation home for families with toddlers on 30A / the Emerald Coast. This home is located in a gated community with two pools, a playground, and a miniature golf course that your little one is sure to love. Explore the tree-lined paths while strolling or biking and enjoy direct beach access. The house itself has multiple porches, swings, benches, and comfortable furnishings for relaxation and bonding time. Enjoy some much-needed rest and fun in the sun at Parker!
These are just a few of our homes that are great for toddlers. Check out all of our homes here and book your family-friendly AvantStay home today to start making memories that will last a lifetime.
When it comes to vacation rental management contracts, one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why AvantStay offers customizable programs that work for you and your home; choose between our Master Lease and Vacation Rental Management Agreement (VRMA). Keep reading to learn more about our flexible management options that help you hit your financial goals.
Master Lease vs. Vacation Rental Management Agreement
Before we dive in, it’s important to consider how you plan on using your vacation home. If you typically use your home for less than four weeks a year, a Master Lease might be a nice option. On the other hand, if you’d like to enjoy your home for more than four weeks, our VRMA is a better fit. Still unsure of which program suits you and your home? Let’s break down the main differences.
Master Lease
We pay you a guaranteed monthly rent in exchange for leasing your vacation property to AvantStay. The amount you earn is a fixed, agreed-upon monthly rent that you receive regardless of season or how many bookings we make. This takes the risk out of renting your home.
Vacation Rental Management Agreement
We earn a percentage of the revenue we bring in and pay you a monthly revenue share. The amount you earn each month varies based on bookings, so you’ll earn more during periods of higher demand.
Who pays for the costs associated with operating my home as a short-term rental?
Master Lease
We pay for all expenses associated with operating your home as a short-term rental including utilities, property service providers, repairs, general maintenance, and turnover costs.
Vacation Rental Management Agreement
Our Home Care Program is included as a standard component of our VRMA plans and covers in-house maintenance and repair services, inspections, and work order visibility for one low monthly fee. You’ll receive unmatched professional care from our skilled staff and trusted contractors that strive to go above and beyond, so you’ll never have to worry about a thing.
What about design services, furnishing, and the photoshoot?
All AvantStay homeowners have access to our award-winning interior design services, no matter your contract type, for a low one-time fee based on your furnishing requirements. Our interior designers create custom, locally inspired designs in line with our elevated branding that guests love and have come to expect—that way, you know the furniture you’re buying will boost your vacation rental’s ROI.
From there, we help you procure high-quality, durable furniture, equipment, and amenities to elevate the guest experience and drive premium daily rates. We pass along our discounted rates to you so you capture those savings, and coordinate delivery and installation on your behalf so you don’t have to lift a finger!
To bring it all together, we take care of the professional photoshoot and listing creation for all of our owners—for free! Our design, furnishing, and photography services are guaranteed to drive guest satisfaction, higher occupancy, and ultimately more revenue.
Who pays for the technology you have to invest in to turn my home into a short-term rental?
Both of our management programs include our cutting-edge smart (IoT) technology that remotely monitors everything from entry surveillance to noise to occupancy, all to ensure your home stays safe and protected. All of our smart home devices such as smart locks, noise sensors, doorbell cameras, and more are compliments of AvantStay. Plus, we do the installation for you!
Full-service vacation rental management
No matter what management plan you choose, you’ll always receive best-in-class local care. As an AvantStay homeowner, you get unmatched personalized service through a dedicated Owner Experience Manager who will quickly assist with any inquiries. You can also rest assured that our Policy and Risk team keeps a constant pulse on the ever-evolving short-term rental regulatory requirements across the country, so your home is always in good standing.
We pair all of that personal support with a proprietary tech suite that powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management, and activates an elevated guest experience. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and relax—it’s that simple.
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
All Rights Reserved
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.
A great vacation rental management company will create a stress-free experience for you while maximizing your vacation rental income. However, you could find yourself in a situation where you aren’t happy with your current management company.
Is your vacation rental not receiving proper care to stay in good condition? Is there no proactive communication from your management team? Or maybe you just aren’t making as much as you think you could. Any of these situations are a sign that it’s time to change your property management company. If you’re at the end of your vacation rental management agreement or your current property manager is dropping the ball, it might be time for a change! These tips will help you find a better vacation rental management company that meets your needs and financial goals.
When is it time to hire a new vacation rental property manager
It may seem daunting to change property management companies, but the reward for doing so outweighs any pressure and stress you’re currently facing. The right team will be able to take care of everything to keep your home in pristine condition, consistently booked, and handle all operational tasks that come with managing a short-term rental property. Still unsure if you should switch vacation rental management companies? Here are some signs that it’s time to start your research:
Your vacation rental isn’t consistently booked
Owner statements aren’t clear or you get random invoices
You’re doing your own marketing
You’re communicating directly with guests and vendors
You’re responsible for filing taxes and obtaining permits
Your vacation rental management agreement is almost up
Low/slow season is ahead of you
What to do when switching vacation rental managers
There are many things to consider when choosing a new vacation rental manager. Here are the top things to know before making the switch.
1. Understand the stability of the company
In today’s economy, it’s important to understand the stability of a vacation rental management company. Companies that are not financially set up for success may delay owner payments to pay themselves first, not be able to maintain the number and quality of their local teams, and in the worst-case scenario may end up shutting down entirely—in the middle of high season! Do your research to learn how a company is capitalized, and how they perform in a volatile and uncertain environment.
2. Make sure you’re comparing apples to apples
If your end goal is to make more revenue, make sure you aren’t just looking at the management fee. While a low management fee is enticing, you should think about any extra costs that your new property manager will or won’t cover, how they’ll be pricing your home, and how much revenue they’re able to generate for you. A low management fee could end up costing you more!
3. Meet your local point of contact
Even if it’s just over a video call, make sure you meet the person or team who will be taking care of your home. They should be an expert in all aspects of your market and local vendors. Be sure to ask about other vacation rentals they manage in your area and how they fare against competition, how they optimize for seasonal trends, and how they comply with local regulations.
4. Check that they have good reviews
Check out reviews on Google, Better Business Bureau, Yelp, and Trustpilot to get a sense of a company’s brand reputation and how they respond to any negative feedback. Every company has some bad reviews, so make sure they’re at least doing better than the competition. You can even go straight to the source and ask management companies for referrals from current homeowners.
5. Confirm they know how to transfer your reviews
You’ve put a lot of hard work into creating a great guest experience and cultivating positive reviews. Make sure your new vacation rental manager knows how to transfer over your reviews on Vrbo, otherwise, you’re losing all that traction and recognition from guests.
6. Understand how they manage your existing reservations
A great vacation rental management company will be able to honor your existing reservations so you’re not losing any income during the transition. Once you sign with AvantStay, we ensure that all of your reservations are blacked out on your calendar, transfer over all Vrbo reviews, and take new, professional photos so your listing is fully optimized and ready to drive new bookings.
Other questions to ask:
How large is your rental portfolio? Will I receive local support?
How will you get my home ready for guests?
Will you handle permitting, inspections, occupancy taxes, and insurance?
What are the vacation rental management fees and contract terms?
What services are included in my contract?
How will you advertise my home?
How do I know my home will be in good hands?
Can you guarantee I’ll make more money on my vacation home than I did last year?
What does the transition timeline entail?
How long will my home be off-market?
How much involvement will I have in the transition from my current property manager?
How to break up with your property manager
Once you’ve found the right vacation rental manager for your needs, it’s time to part ways with your current property manager. But don’t worry, breaking up with your property management company isn’t as awkward as it seems. Start by revisiting your vacation rental management agreement. There could be clauses in your contract that allow you to terminate your agreement if your vacation rental manager isn’t delivering on services as stated.
Even if you can’t find a right to terminate your contract, you should still reach out to your vacation rental manager and exercise your right to termination. Keep it simple and be prepared. Make a list of all the things they said they would do but aren’t (with specific examples), along with other reasons the partnership is no longer working. Also, make sure to put your termination notice in writing even if you end your partnership over the phone or in person.
Make the switch to AvantStay
When you partner with a full-service management company like AvantStay, you’ll never have to worry about any of the above. We’ll work with you every step of the way during your termination timeline and transition to AvantStay while going above and beyond to limit the time your listing is offline.
Once you’re brought on to the AvantStay platform, you’ll receive unmatched personalized service through a local Area Manager. They’ll know the ins and outs of your home, vendors, and market and will be able to quickly assist with any inquiries.
We pair all of that personal support with a proprietary tech suite that powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management, and activates an elevated guest experience. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and relax—it’s that simple.
If you’re looking to take a trip to the Conch Republic, you may be overwhelmed with options or just not know what to expect. Lucky for you, we’ve created a guide to help you make the right decisions throughout the entirety of your trip to Key West, FL.
Booking with a Hotel or Small Rental Company
Key West is home to many hotels and even more vacation rentals operated by a variety of different companies. When traveling to Key West with family or a group, we suggest going with a vacation rental so that there’s no need to split up into separate rooms, and you can enjoy all the amenities that make it feel like home. While there are many small, local vacation rental companies to choose from, our advice here is to book with AvantStay. With over 1,500 homes in 100 destinations, AvantStay offers the expertise and professionalism you won’t get with those other companies—plus, 24/7 guest support.
Our personal favorite Key West AvantStay is the Amelia Home, located just around the corner from the hotspot that is Duval Street.
Booking a Rental Car
There’s no need to book a rental car on this 4-mile-long, 1 mile-wide-island. Instead, you’ll find most visitors opt for golf carts, scooters, or bike rentals. If you’re really ballin’ on a budget, take advantage of the free shuttle service and take the Duval Loop to get around town.
Getting the Wrong Key Lime Pie
Given the name, there are obviously tons of spots you can grab a good Key Lime. However, your biggest mistake could be getting the wrong one. Grab dinner and drinks at Blue Heaven, then order a slide of the best, and most famous, Key Lime pie on the island. If you’re not a big fan of meringue, try Kermit’s for a close second.
Missing the Sunset
Being in the Southernmost point of the US, you’re in for a true treat with a Key West sunset. One of the most iconic things to do in Key West is to take a sunset cruise tour.
Not Saving Room for Ice Cream
You may have just scarfed down the whole slice of Key Lime pie at Blue Heaven – but trust us when we say you have to make room for the large ice cream cone at Mattheessen’s Homemade Ice Cream. If you’re not feeling ice cream, they’ve also got great giant cookies.
Skipping Breakfast
We hope you came hungry for this trip. Hopefully, you’ve recovered from your dessert-filled night and are ready for a great breakfast. We’re on island time here, which means most Key West restaurants have brunch available daily—not just on the weekends. Head to Sarabeth’s and try to get one of the off-menu specials, if available. You can’t go wrong with the Surf and Turf Eggs Benedict made with fresh lobster. Another fan-favorite is Bagatelle, a restaurant situated in a historic, architecturally-beautiful building, built in the 1800s. Here you’ll find everything from deep-fried french toast to lobster mac and cheese.
Missing the Butterfly Conservatory
Butterflies, birds, and two resident flamingo siblings—Scarlett and Rhett. Need we say more? Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience at Key West Butterfly Conservatory.
Skipping Out on a Dolphin Excursion
Ever seen an Atlantic Bottlenose dolphin up close? Probably not! If that’s the case, now’s your chance. During your trip to Key West, be sure to book with a tour company for a chance to see real wild dolphin sightings. Dolphins are actually so used to the tours now, it’s pretty common for them to approach boats.
Not Making Reservations at Latitudes Far in Advance
Reservations at Latitudes are hard to come by, so be sure to book far in advance. Your reservation starts at the docks where you’ll board a boat and ride to a small island where the restaurant is. Enjoy a high-class dinner as you listen to the waves.
Not Trying a Drink at Tiki House
Go to Tiki House for a wide selection of unique drinks served in whimsical glasses. Our pick is the Zombie: a drink served on fire with two types of rum, housemade falernum, cinnamon syrup, fresh lime and grapefruit, and Trader Vic’s 151. Cheers to the good life. It’s not everywhere you can get a drink like this.
Visiting the Southernmost Point in the Afternoon
Wake up early to see the Southernmost Point of the continental US. The line gets excessively long, so it’s key to get here early – unless you’re cool with waiting in the extra-humid sunshine for hours (no, thanks).
Not Having a Back-up Plan for a Potential Rainy Day
If you’ve ever visited Florida, you know the curse: the oh-so-reliable, once-a-day rain shower. It’s unlikely your entire day will be spoiled by a big storm (unless you decided to visit during hurricane season), but if you do – try going to Tropic Cinema where you can catch a movie and escape the drizzles.
Missing Out on Lobster Pizza
Hear us out… lobster pizza. Get yours for lunch on the water at the Seaside Cafe at The Mansion. Add a mojito made with a sugar rock candy stick, and you’ve just had your best lunch to date.
Missing Out On a Trip to Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is anything but dry—this park is surrounded by water and is only accessible by boat or seaplane. During your day trip here, you can take a guided tour of Ft. Jefferson, walk the beaches, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun. Basically, if you’re a water lover, this is the place to visit.
Looking for more fun things to do in Key West? Check out this guide for more to do when you visit the Conch Republic.
Nestled in the heart of California’s wine country, Sonoma County offers a delightful blend of scenic landscapes, world-class wineries, and culinary delights. Sonoma makes for the perfect weekend getaway, with plenty of things to do to fit into a 48-hour trip. In this guide, we’ll take you on a memorable journey through Sonoma, highlighting the best places to stay, wineries to visit, and where to savor delicious treats. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and flavors of this captivating destination.
Where to Stay
For a comfortable and luxurious stay in Sonoma County, consider booking an AvantStay vacation rental in Santa Rosa. Santa Rosa is a great central location with easy access to the Sonoma wineries to the north and south, and to Napa Valley wineries to the east.
AvantStay offers an array of stunning properties that cater to different group sizes and preferences. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, you’ll find spacious accommodations equipped with modern amenities and stylish interiors. Enjoy the convenience of a fully equipped kitchen, cozy living spaces, and beautiful outdoor areas to unwind after a day of exploration.
Day 1 Kickstart your day with a delicious brunch at Sunflower Caffé in Downtown Sonoma. Known for its farm-to-table ethos, this charming eatery serves up mouthwatering dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in their fluffy pancakes, savory omelets, or a hearty breakfast sandwich. This spot does not take reservations, so you can leisurely stroll to brunch without being held to a schedule.
Make your way to Benziger Family Winery, known for its sustainable farming practices and exceptional wines. Take a guided tour of the vineyards, learn about their biodynamic approach, and sample their diverse range of varietals. We recommend taking the tractor tour for a unique perspective of the vineyards. Tickets must be purchased in advance as they do tend to sell out.
Berziger Family Winery
After Benziger, head to their sister location, Imagery Winery, for an intimate wine-tasting experience. Enjoy their handcrafted wines, carefully produced in small batches, while taking in the serene vineyard views. This winery is family-friendly, offering an outdoor area with bocce ball and plenty of space for the kids to run around.
Imagery Winery
End your evening by heading back to the Santa Rosa area for dinner at La Rosa Tequileria & Grille. This vibrant restaurant offers a fusion of Mexican and Latin American flavors. Enjoy dishes like their flavorful carne asada, fresh ceviche, or their famous street tacos. Pair your meal with one of their impressive tequila or mezcal selections.
Save room for dessert and hop across the street to Noble Folk for a delightful ice cream experience. This artisanal ice cream parlor offers a range of unique flavors made with locally sourced ingredients. From classic options to inventive creations like lavender honey and salted caramel, there’s something to satisfy every palate. For the indecisive, opt for a flight of ice cream and choose up to 6 different flavors.
Ice cream flight at Noble Folk
Day 2
Start your morning off right with brunch at Bird & The Bottle. This Santa Rosa spot blends an surprising array of flavors. Asian, American South, East Coast, Jewish and other cuisines have been combined to create an unforgettable menu. Enjoy everything from matzo ball soup to Korean BBQ chicken.
Next on the agenda are another two wineries you won’t want to miss.
Embark on a sensory journey at Jordan Vineyard & Winery, renowned for its elegant wines and stunning chateau-style architecture. Take a guided tour of the vineyards, explore their underground wine cellar, and indulge in a wine and food pairing experience. The Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a true standout.
Conclude your winery visits at St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, a picturesque estate offering an array of exceptional wines. Enjoy a seated tasting experience in their tasting room or outdoor terrace, where you can sample their highly acclaimed Zinfandel and Chardonnay.
For a delicious dining experience, spend the evening at The Girl & The Fig in Sonoma. This renowned restaurant focuses on French-inspired cuisine with a California twist. The menu showcases seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, creating dishes bursting with flavor. Try their signature fig and arugula salad, followed by their delectable roasted chicken or grilled fish. End your meal with their decadent lavender crème brulée.
the girl & the fig
Ready to plan your stay in Sonoma? Check out all of AvantStay’s group-friendly vacation rentals here.
Oahu is one of eight islands in the Hawaiian archipelago. It is home to some of the world’s finest beaches, Hawaii’s largest city Honolulu, and the majority of Hawaiian residents.
Oahu translates to “the gathering place,” and the number of people on the island, combined with its breathtaking natural beauty, means there are near limitless activities for people of any age.
Before you head to Oahu, be sure to brush up on the local rules and regulations regarding tourists. Hawaii embraces sustainable tourism to maintain and protect the natural beauty, so they ask guests to leave no trace and support local nonprofit organizations that promote these initiatives.
Whether you’re traveling with your family, partner, or a group of friends, we’ve put together a list of the 51 best things to do in Oahu to make your vacation planning as easy as possible.
1. Diamond Head State Monument
If you want the perfect Instagram photo from Oahu, Diamond Head State Monument is your best bet. It has some of the most scenic hiking and stunning overlooks on the island. When you get to the top of your hike, you’ll have panoramic views of the lush green on Oahu, the Honolulu skyline, and the Pacific Ocean.
If you aren’t a Hawaii resident, you will need to make a reservation and pay a $10 vehicle entry fee, along with a $5 fee per visitor over three years old.
2. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
No matter whom you’re traveling with, Pearl Harbor is worth a stop if you stay in Oahu. The memorial is steeped in devastating but powerful history, and includes the USS Arizona Memorial, The USS Utah Memorial, and the USS Oklahoma Memorial.
The best way to make the most of Pearl Harbor is to book a Ford Island Bus Tour, where you can see the Oklahoma and Utah memorials. The memorial for the USS Arizona is separate from this tour.
3. Kualoa Ranch
Kualoa Ranch is located on the North Shore of Oahu Island. Kualoa Ranch has hosted many incredible TV shows and movies, including Lost and Hawaii Five-0. It is also called the Jurassic Valley because part of the Jurassic Park movie franchise was filmed there.
You can book horseback riding, e-bike tours, Jurassic ATV tours, Hollywood Tours, visits to secluded beaches, and an incredible zipline experience.
4. Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center is the best way to experience the rich heritage of Hawaiian culture on any of the Hawaiian Islands. At the evening shows, you will be able to experience a traditional luau that includes hula dancing and incredible fire displays.
The Polynesia Cultural Center also offers an authentic Hawaiian dining experience and gorgeous handmade souvenirs.
5. Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach is one of the best beaches in Oahu. Located in the town of Kailua, Lanikai is on the island’s windward side and offers stunning views of the bluest ocean you’ll ever see.
Getting to Lanikai can be difficult as there is no public access except for boardwalks between people’s homes. Parking can be difficult, especially on the weekend, so it’s best to visit during the week if you can. There are also no lifeguards on duty for this beach.
While Lanikai may be difficult to reach, it makes this beach one of a few hidden gems less crowded than other parts of the island. Our home Hale Oahu Cottage is only a couple of miles away from this beach.
6. Sunset Beach Park
Sunset Beach along Oahu’s north shore is one of the most incredible beaches in the world. In the winter, the giant waves make it a famous beach for surfers. If you’re unfamiliar with beaches and surfing, staying out of the water on good surfing days is a good idea.
Sunset Beach is the perfect place to go snorkeling during the summer when the winds and surfing waves have calmed. Of course, the beach also lives up to its reputation—it’s the perfect place to catch a sunset no matter the time of year.
7. Dole Plantation
Visiting the Dole Plantation isn’t like seeing any other farm. It has many unique experiences that are perfect for the whole family. Since 1898, the Dole Plantation has been the place for tourists to explore a Pineapple Express Train Tour, a pineapple garden maze, and an incredible guided tour of the gardens.
While the plantation can be a fun place to visit with your family, it is also rich in history. The plantation has been used for centuries, and the foods grown there are a mainstay of Hawaiian culture.
The Dole Plantation is also known for its incredible treats, such as Dole Soft Serve, freshly picked pineapples, and estate-grown Waialua chocolate.
8. Byodo-In Temple
Nestled in the foothills of the Ko-olau Mountains, the Byodo-In Temple is a temple built to honor Japanese immigrants in Hawaii. Dappled with luscious flora, quiet waterfalls, and iconic Japanese Koi, it’s no wonder that the temple is a popular wedding destination for couples from Japan and the US alike.
9. Iolani Palace
The Iolani Palace is one of Hawaii’s finest historic sites. For years it was home to Hawaii’s King Kalakaua and then his successor and sister, Queen Liliuokalani. When the monarchy was overthrown, the palace served as the capital for more than 70 years.
In the 70s, the palace was restored to look like its original royal home. They offer tours where you can learn about Hawaii’s connections with Japan, the traditional attire of Hawaiian royalty, and more.
10. Ala Moana
Ala Moana is a shopping district in Honolulu jam-packed with local cuisine, incredible stores, hula dancers, ukulele players, and activities for children. With hundreds of stores, Ala Moana is easily a full-day activity all on its own.
11. Kailua Beach Park
Kailua Beach is the best beach for active travelers. Located on the windward half of Oahu, you can canoe, kayak, snorkel, or try your hand on a stand-up paddleboard.
There are plenty of amenities available as well, including BBQ pits, picnic shelters, bathrooms with showers, and lifeguards. If you’re staying in a vacation rental on Lanikai or Kailua Beach, you can even get free gear delivered to this picturesque beach.
12. Hanauma Bay Tours
Hanauma Bay Tours offers an incredible experience for the whole family with their Turtle Canyon tours. You and your family will be able to see wonderful marine life up close and its native habitat, including green sea turtles and Hawaii’s state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua’a.
If you’re visiting from December to April, you may even get lucky and see a humpback whale.
13. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens
This iconic garden includes 400 acres of peaceful land for you to explore. You will be able to see native Hawaiian plant life, of course, but you will also be able to explore botanical collections from the Philippines, Malaysia, Africa, and more.
The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens are a great place to learn about nature, wildlife, and the fragile ecosystems of the Hawaiian islands while enjoying gorgeous scenery unlike anywhere else.
14. Ko Olina lagoons
Ko Olina includes four lagoons that spread across 642 acres of land. This beach is one of the more accessible beaches in Oahu, as daily public parking is available.
Ko Olina beaches are best for those that want a quiet beach where they can sit in the sun. Because it is privately owned, Ko Olina has banned alcohol, cigarettes, pets, loud music, and most active beach activities.
If you’re an adult looking for the best place to sunbathe in peace and enjoy the sounds of the waves off of one of Oahu’s finest beaches—Ko Olina is your best bet.
15. Oahu shark diving tour
If you want to ditch the relaxing beaches for a day and have a thrill instead, you can go diving with sharks with North Shore Shark Adventures. They guarantee you will see sharks on their tour, so your time and money are insured with this adventure.
You and your family will be able to observe the true majesty of sharks up close and personal in a cage dive. If you’re planning on visiting Oahu and you can find the time, a shark diving tour is not something you want to miss.
16. Pillboxes
The United States military had to endure intense onslaughts during WWII in Oahu. They built concrete structures called pillboxes around the island to serve as lookouts for the enemy.
Because they were important lookouts, these pillboxes often come with astonishingly beautiful views. Though soldiers built many around Oahu, two of the most popular pillboxes are in Diamond Head Lookout and along the Lanikai Pillbox Trial.
17. Matsumoto Shave Ice
Shave ice is one of Oahu’s most iconic treats, and Matsumoto Shave Ice is one of the most iconic places to get it. Located in Waialua on the island’s north side, Matsumoto has been open since 1951.
This little shop has regular flavors like watermelon, strawberry, and lemon, as well as unique flavors like guava, lychee, and ume. If you want to try something really different, you can even add adzuki beans for a little extra protein.
18. Makapu’u Lighthouse
As a chain of islands, it’s no surprise that Hawaii is home to many different lighthouses. No lighthouse in Hawaii is more iconic than Makapu’u Lighthouse.
To see this lighthouse on the eastern point of Oahu Island, you’ll have to hike 2 miles round trip on Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline. The trail difficulty is moderate, so it’s suitable for most families.
If you decide to make the trek out, bring binoculars to see as much wildlife as possible- whales, seabirds, dolphins, and much more are all often visible from the lighthouse.
19. Halona Blowhole Lookout
The Halona Blowhole Lookout is located near Hanauma Bay off Kalanianaole Highway and is worth a stop. Waters from the Pacific Ocean violently crash against the shore, and an old volcanic tube throws the sea waves high into the air.
Aside from the blowhole itself, the lookout offers spectacular views of the water and a great place to pull over and stretch your legs.
20. Tantalus Lookout
There is perhaps no better way to see the skyline of Honolulu than from Tantalus Lookout. Originally named Pu’u Ualaka’a, Tantalus Lookout is perched atop an extinct cinder cone volcano.
The lookout also offers a fantastic view of the island’s craters—- including Diamond Head Crater—- which formed after large volcanic explosions thousands of years ago. While on the lookout, be sure to explore the Ualaka’a Trail, a short 1-mile loop that offers a unique view of the Hawaiian jungle.
21. Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
The Nu’uanu Pali Lookout is a beautiful and historically significant site in Oahu. This lookout is a must-see just five miles from Honolulu if you’re staying in or near the city.
This lookout is the location where the battle of Nu’uanu took place in 1795. During the fighting, hundreds of soldiers died, many by being pushed off the rocky cliff. It was during this battle that King Kamehameha I united Oahu for the first time.
22. Oahu helicopter tours
There are a few different helicopter tours in Oahu that launch from different locations. Wherever you’re staying, planning to experience Oahu via a helicopter tour couldn’t be more worth it. From the sky, you’ll be able to see Hawaii as the birds do.
From incredible waterfalls and lush green forests to the Honolulu skyline and the cerulean ocean, there is no better way of experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Oahu than from the sky.
23. Waikiki Beach
Located near Honolulu, Waikiki Beach is one of the most iconic beaches that Hawaii has to offer. This world-renowned beach is lined with a half-dozen surfing schools for those looking to learn. The smaller waves on this side of the island are perfect for those getting onto a surfboard for the first time.
If only part of your group is interested in getting on a board, the rest can spend their day shopping or enjoying entertainment just steps away from the beach.
24. Skydiving
Skydiving isn’t for everyone, but if you’re ready for the freefall, this activity is one of the best things to do in Oahu. A few different businesses offer skydiving along the island’s North Shore.
Starting from as high as 14,000 feet, most tours offer freefalls that last as long as 20 seconds. If you’re ready for the thrill of a lifetime, you can check out Pacific Skydiving or Skydive Hawaii to make a reservation.
25. Waimea Bay
The waves at Waimea Bay are not for the faint of heart. This bay is on the windward side of Oahu, and it shows. In winter (roughly November to April), the waves on this beach can be more than 20 feet tall.
The water at this beach is best traversed only by expert surfers and lifeguards. Waimea Bay is the place to be if you want to see expert surfers in action, not if you’re looking to ride your first wave.
In the summer, the waters of the bay calm, and this area becomes a popular spot to relax, snorkel, and dive.
26. Ka’ena Point Trail
The Ka’ena Point Trail is located in Ka’ena Point State Park on the northwestern point of Oahu Island.
On hotter days, hikers should keep in mind that Ka’ena Point Trail is a longer hike that doesn’t offer much shade and has no drinking water available along the trail. Still, if you’re willing to make the 2.7-mile one-way trek, it’s worth it for what you will see along the way.
This trail offers views of the Kaneana, a sea cave that is said to be the home of the Nanaue Shark Man of ancient Hawaiian mythology. If you hit this trail early, you might also be lucky enough to see dolphins swimming in the nearby waters.
27. The ‘Aiea Loop Trail
Located in Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area, the ‘Aiea Loop Trail stretches 4.8 miles of easy and moderate terrain. On average, this trail takes 2 to 3 hours to complete.
The ‘Aiea Loop Trail offers some of the most memorable beauty in Oahu. Lined with lemon eucalyptus trees that leave a lingering citrus smell in the air, this trail offers spectacular views of the southern Oahu coast. You will likely see incredible wildlife along with your views, making this trail a must-see for anyone in the area.
28. Camping in Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area
Campsites in Oahu aren’t easy to come by, but if you get a chance to camp in Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area, take it. With just ten campsites open only from Friday through Wednesday, the State Recreation Area offers the finest way to spend a night outdoors.
The campsites in the recreation area have showers, water fountains, and bathrooms available, though alcohol is not permitted anywhere in the park. You should come prepared for bugs—especially mosquitos. However, it’s well worth it as camping in Hawaii is a truly memorable experience.
29. Wahiawa Freshwater State Recreation Area
Freshwater fishing may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Hawaii, but Wahiawa Freshwater State Recreation Area offers an area to do that. You can fish right off the shore of the Wahiawa Reservoir, or you can fish off a boat.
This recreation area has water fountains, bathrooms, picnic tables, and a boat ramp for your convenience.
30. Kayak to the Mokes
Looking out from Lanikai Beach, you can see two small islands in the distance—the Mokes. Kailua Beach Adventures offers kayaking tours to these secluded islands, from the beach to these islands, where you’ll experience some of the best beaches in Hawaii and spectacular views from the water.
Once you kayak the 30 minutes to the islands, you can hop out of your kayak, swim in the shallow waters, and explore the land. Whether renting a kayak and visiting the islands alone or following a guided tour, The Mokes are a must for anyone visiting Oahu.
31. Koko Crater Trail
The Koko Crater Trail—more commonly called the Koko Head Stairs–is one of the most iconic hikes in Oahu. As Oahu’s most difficult hike with more than 1,000 stairs, this trail is best left to more experienced hikers and groups without small children.
Remember that you will have to descend any stairs you climb up on your way back down. As with all hikes, it’s best to turn around if you feel you’re becoming depleted of your energy or have used half of your water supply.
To do this hike, you can park in the Koko Head District Park parking lot and follow trail signs. The higher you go, the better the views get until you reach the top. There may be no better view of Oahu than from the top of the Koko Crater Trail.
32. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is home to many legendary Pearl Harbor and WWII planes. Located on Ford Island in the middle of Pearl Harbor, this museum is the perfect stop for any group with a history buff.
In this museum, you can walk around an old plane hangar packed with dive bombers, flight simulators, and tons of history.
33. The Manoa Falls Trail
The Manoa Falls Trail is a good choice for those with less experience to get some hiking in on Oahu. The trail has only a gentle slope and is a short 1.6 miles long. It’s also just a 15-minute drive from Honolulu—perfect for families with restless children.
The size of the waterfall at the end of this trail may vary depending on the season and weather. Water from this waterfall depends on rainwater, so if you visit in the dry season, don’t be surprised when the water is a smaller trickle.
Regardless of Manoa Falls waterfall, the trail will take you through a luscious green jungle under a gorgeous canopy of trees. This hike is absolutely worth the effort for the views along the way.
34. Hawaii State Art Museum
The Hawaii State Art Museum is the perfect activity for anyone that wants to learn more about the local culture while getting some time out of the sun. There’s always something new to see with an ever-changing array of exhibits that feature local artists.
The sculpture garden is a permanent exhibit at the art museum. Designed to evoke the image of an urban oasis, the sculpture garden has free admission.
35. Waikiki Submarine Tour
Atlantis Adventures offers a submarine tour of the clear waters of Waikiki. A submarine tour is not for those with claustrophobia, as you’ll dive 100 feet underwater in a tight space to see the marine life below the water.
This tour is one of the best ways to observe fish in their natural habitats. The trip lasts over an hour, during which you will see coral, a sunken shipwreck, and even a crashed airplane.
If you have children on the trip, it should be noted that there is a minimum of 36-inch (3-foot) height for safety reasons.
36. Kaniakapupu Ruins
The Kaniakapupu Ruins are an important historic site on the island of Oahu. Just a short hike off Old Pali Road, nestled in a bamboo forest, is the broken-down walls of the Kaniakapupu Ruins.
These broken walls represent what was once King Kamehameha III’s summer home, originally built in 1847. It was in this summer home that King Kamehameha III would consult with his people and his chiefs, away from the prying eyes of Westerners.
37. Waikiki Aquarium
The Waikiki Aquarium is part of the University of Hawaii. Originally built in 1904, the Waikiki Aquarium is the second oldest in the United States and sees more than 300,000 visitors annually.
While visiting, you’ll see incredible marine life up close and personal—from sea horses to jellyfish, the aquarium has more than 3,000 animals in its care.
If you add the Waikiki Aquarium to your itinerary, do not miss the aquarium’s two most popular attractions, the Hawaiian Monk Seal Exhibit and the Living Reef Exhibit.
38. The Honolulu Zoo
The Honolulu Zoo is home to many unique animals you won’t have the chance to see elsewhere. From mammals and birds to reptiles and amphibians, the zoo is the perfect way to get close to wildlife without endangering it or yourself.
Pythons, tortoises, giraffes, and flamingos can all be found in the zoo. You’ll want to dedicate a full day to the zoo and its activities with dozens of exhibits.
If you’re looking for an extra memorable experience, you can stay in the park after the gates close on Saturday nights for Twilight Tours.
These tours are two hours long and will take you throughout the zoo to observe the animals at a unique time of day. Animals’ behavior changes as the sun sets, and you’ll get extra time to ask questions on the guided tour.
39. Queen Emma Summer Palace
The Queen Emma Summer Palace is another important historical site that will take your breath away. In Hawaiian, it’s called Hanaiakamalama.
This palace was home to Queen Emma of Hawaii and her husband, King Kamehameha, for nearly forty years. They raised their son, Prince Albert, in the Nu’uanu Valley.
The palace spans more than 22 thousand square feet and was saved from demolition in 1915. The Daughters of Hawaii stopped this historical site from being destroyed, and they still run it to this day.
40. The Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum is one of the best ways to learn about Polynesian culture and the history of the Hawaiian islands. The museum hosts information about native wildlife, local culture, and the history of the building itself.
The Bishop Museum has more than 25 million treasures from Hawaii and Polynesia. These items paint a picture of the Pacific islands’ history, making the museum the perfect stop for history buffs.
The Bishop Museum is also home to a planetarium, where you can see a show to learn more about the night sky overhead.
You can walk the same halls as Queen Emma alone or follow a guided tour. Whatever you decide, if you’re going to the Nu’uanu Valley, this palace is worth a stop.
41. Washington Palace
Washington Palace, completed in 1847, is an important historical landmark in Oahu history. It originally housed Mary Dominis, who named it after George Washington with permission from King Kamehameha III.
While the house was originally Mary’s, it is most known for being the home of Queen Liliuokalani, who married Mary’s son John Dominis. Queen Liliuokalani lived in the home from the time she was married until she ascended to the throne in 1891.
At Washington Palace, you can walk amongst this history and learn about the life, career, and death of Queen Liliuokalani—the last monarch of the Hawaiian islands.
42. Honolulu’s Chinatown
The Hawaiian Islands’ proximity to Asia has meant that China and Japan have significantly impacted Hawaiian culture. Honolulu is even home to its own iconic Chinatown.
Chinatown in Honolulu stretches from North Beretania to Honolulu Harbor. You’ll find a bustling and vibrant art scene within Chinatown, restaurants that blend Hawaiian and Chinese cuisine, and incredible nightlife.
43. Sea Life Park
The Sea Life Park is a perfect experience for families staying in Oahu. It is a great place to see a luau, watch marine life play and swim, and eat unique local cuisine. Sea Life Park is one of the few places where you can interact up close with dolphins and monk seals.
You’ll also get up close and personal with whitetip reef sharks, small sharks native to the waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
Whether you go to the Sea Life Park for a dolphin encounter, a seal encounter, or just to get a closer look at the penguin habitat, make sure to pre-book your tickets and passes online, as they tend to sell out during peak seasons.
44. Segway tours
One of the best ways to get a full view of Honolulu (without being in a car) is to take a Segway tour. Many companies offer Segway tours around the city, and you can bring your entire family along.
In recent years, some places have even begun to offer tours riding hoverboards- the cool older sibling of the Segway. Segways are all-terrain vehicles, and with the right tires, you can smoothly transition from the city streets to the beach and back again.
45. Golfing
There are 40 golf courses on the Island of Oahu, and each offers a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. There are options for every budget, from those who want a luxury PGA-golfing experience to those just looking to hit the course while they travel.
The Ko Olina Golf Club course offers a quintessential Hawaiian golf experience. Boasting roughly 35,000 square feet of land, waterfalls, and breathtaking views, it’s not a surprise that Ko Olina was chosen for Golf Digest’s ‘Top 75 Resort Courses in The United States.’
46. Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing, also called windsurfing, is a sport where you use a board and a small sail to glide across the water at high speeds. The best kitesurfing on Oahu is in Kailua Bay.
If you have never done this kind of surfing before, it’s best to start with an instructor who can help you learn how to navigate safely. Fortunately, Honolulu is home to plenty of kitesurfing schools that can help you get started.
Once you get going, kitesurfing can offer you the experience of a lifetime. From breathtaking views of the island from the water to the thrill of feeling like a low-flying, there is nothing like zipping across the water with only the wind to pull you along.
47. Biking
There are tons of bike trails around the island of Oahu. Whether you’re looking to experience some unique island mountain biking or you want to navigate the city’s streets, bike rental companies can get you started so you don’t have to bring your bike from home.
48. Distillery tours
Whatever your alcohol preference, you will likely find an Oahu distillery to match it. Around the island, you’ll find distilleries that produce rum, whiskey, scotch, and more. Because of the Japanese influence on the island, you can even visit a shochu (Japanese rice alcohol) or sake distillery.
49. Leonard’s Bakery
Leonard’s Bakery has been a staple of Oahu since 1952. It was opened by Leonard and Margaret DoRego, descendants of Portuguese immigrants. When they first opened the bakery, they stuck to traditional American desserts but quickly decided to include traditional Portuguese baked goods as well.
When the owners of Leonard’s included malasadas on the menu for the first time, they were reluctant. They weren’t sure if the food would take off with white Americans or natives of the island, but it was a hit with both. To this day, Leonard’s Bakery represents the blend of cultures that makes Oahu and the surrounding islands unique.
Today, the bakery serves traditional Hawaiian baked goods like Pao Doce, Portuguese foods like malasadas, and traditional American desserts like pies and cupcakes.
50. Koko Crater Botanical Garden
The Koko Crater Botanical Garden is located on the eastern side of Oahu near Honolulu. It includes sixty acres of gorgeous gardens in the basin of the 200-acre Koko Crater.
The botanical garden includes plants from Hawaii, Africa, and Madagascar. There are tropical plants as well as plants native to arid climates.
Due to the garden’s size, it is recommended that you wear good shoes and come prepared to walk. Guided tours are available, but you can also stroll through the garden alone or with your group. Most people spend about an hour and a half walking around the park.
51. Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design
The Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design offers a unique way to learn about Islamic art and design. Exhibitions are always changing, so there is always something new to explore, even if you’ve been there before.
While exhibits are always changing, the museum is home to more than 4,000 permanent objects of cultural importance from Spain, Morocco, Egypt, Syria, Iran, and more. The collection was put together over sixty years by Doris Duke.
Final thoughts
While there are many things to do on all of the Hawaiian islands, including Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii itself, Oahu offers the most diverse array of activities in the archipelago. These 51 things to do in Oahu will keep you busy whether you’re staying just for a weekend or a week.
Whether you’ve lived in Fort Myers all of your life or you’re just visiting and looking for a new piece of paradise in the sun, Fort Myers is home to some of the Sunshine State’s best and most iconic beaches. Bright white sand, seashell heaven, and all the vitamin D that you can ask for are guaranteed here. But, before you plan your trip, remember that not all of Fort Myers’ beaches are the same. So we’ve rounded up for you what each one of them offers depending on your timing and interests. Then you can book your stay confidently with your swimsuit, sunblock, and flip-flops ready to go!
Beaches for days
Fort Myers a.k.a. the “City of Palms” sits at the mouth of the Caloosahatchee River roughly halfway between Naples and Sarasota. It’s also the gateway to one of the most beautiful stretches of barrier islands on Florida’s Gulf Coast, including Estero Island, Sanibel Island, Pine Island, and Captiva.
Fort Myers is world-renowned as a vacation destination beyond its beaches. Summers are long and sunny, winters are short and comfortable, and the sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico are perpetually breathtaking. The City of Palms also offers endless opportunities for fishing, boutique shopping, swimming with manatees, or visiting one of the city’s historic estates and museums. So, whether you’re visiting Fort Myers for the sunshine, getting away with a group of your best friends, or just taking a much-needed break from work with that special someone who makes your heart skip a beat here are the best, can’t-miss beaches to make your vacation the trip of a lifetime.
1. Fort Myers Beach
Situated on Estero Island, Fort Myers Beach is the first stop on any Sunshine State Gulf Coast vacation. With plenty of “shelling” and seemingly endless pristine white sand, there’s something for everyone here, including swimming, kayaking, parasailing, sunbathing, and every other water sport that you can imagine.
Plenty of rental shops along the boardwalk offer quality equipment at an affordable price. And you also aren’t far from Times Square—Fort Myers’ downtown area home to boutique shops and outstanding local restaurant options. You can also visit the famous Lynn Hall Memorial Park and stroll along the pier.
2. Lovers Key State Park
Lovers Key State Park is the perfect romantic destination for anyone visiting Fort Myers and the Gulf of Mexico. And if you’re looking to experience a manatee encounter, this beach park is your go-to spot.
Lovers Key is home to postcard-perfect, sugar-sand beaches while also offering protection from the wind and waves thanks to Southwest Florida’s barrier islands. You can explore the beach on foot or take a kayak or paddleboarding trip to get up close and personal with the Gulf Coast’s natural inhabitants, including exotic birds, manatees, and alligators. With over two miles of beach at Lovers Key, you also don’t have to worry about ruining someone else’s romantic getaway—or your own—since you can almost always find a corner of the beach all to yourself.
3. Bonita Beach
Situated between Fort Myers and Bonita Springs, Bonita Beach is the perfect place to spend an afternoon, an evening, or your entire vacation for that matter. There’s plenty to do if you want to up your watersports game as well as endless room to dig your toes in the sand if all you want is just a piece of the beach with no one else around.
Bonita Beach is also the perfect place to swim, kayak, try your hand (and feet) at paddle boarding, or just relax and bask in Florida’s Gulf Coast sunshine. You’ll find wind-swept dunes, tidal pools, and rare plants if you’re up for exploring. Or you can bring your fishing rods to get some bites in. You might even spot an exotic bird or two if you keep your eyes peeled.
The parking lot for Bonita Beach charges $2 per hour. But between the beachfront park and the boardwalk, you won’t regret paying the small fee for a day filled with fun in the sun.
4. Yacht Club Public Beach
This small public beach with full facilities, a fishing pier, and a playground is technically located in Cape Coral on the other side of the Caloosahatchee River from Fort Myers, but it’s only a stone’s throw away.
If you’re visiting Fort Myers with your family, the Yacht Club Public Beach is a can’t-miss bucket list destination since it sits close to a strip of classic Gulf Coast restaurants, including a tiki bar or two where you and your kids can both enjoy yourselves on “island time.”
5. Bunche Beach
Check out Bunche Beach on San Carlos Bay if you’re looking for a quieter and more relaxed experience than the typical spring break beaches. This tranquil destination will get your mind off whatever worries you want to leave behind.
The shallow surf makes Bunche Beach a perfect place for wading, relaxing, and dipping your toes in the water, especially for families traveling with kids. It’s also a great place to find seashells, particularly at low tide along the mud flats. You’ll pay $2 per hour for parking near the beach, with a maximum of four hours per vehicle. You can also walk or bike to Bunche Beach for free.
6. Bowditch Point Park
If you’re looking for a beach that has it all, Bowditch Point Park is one of Fort Myers’ best places to relax—including picnic tables, a fishing pier, a beach, and restrooms.
From Fort Myers’ famous Times Square, you can access Bowditch Point Park via a quick walk so it’s the perfect place to stretch your legs before you lounge on the beach for a few hours. There’s plenty of space for swimming if you’re looking to feel the ocean on your skin, and Bowditch Point Park is also open from sunrise to sunset with a dock if you bring or rent a boat.
7. Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Park
Sanibel Island is a short drive or a slightly longer boat ride from Fort Myers, but it’s one the most beautiful getaways within a getaway when you’re visiting Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Sanibel Island is world-renowned for its picture-perfect beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and historic lighthouses. It’s also home to the Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Park, a public beach with water sports rentals nearby where you can paddleboard or kayak in the Gulf of Mexico.
You can also find picnic areas stocked with grills and scenic views, making it the perfect place for a family cookout or a get-together with your vacation buddies.
If you’re more of a nature lover, visitors can explore the beach park as well to discover the island’s mangrove forests and Florida’s rare flora and fauna.
8. Causeway Islands Park
Causeway Island Park is a beach park along the Sanibel Causeway bridge, making for easy access if you’re on the causeway as well as allowing you to pull right up to the water with your boat, paddleboard, or kayak.
There’s excellent swimming here, and you also can get a good workout if you swim for cardio or just lazily want to do the backstroke for fun. Either way, the clear, temperate waters of the beach at Causeway Islands Park is one of Fort Myers’ best places to get a day in the sun.
The big bonus? You don’t have to pay for parking here. And you’re free to bring your fishing gear along with you if you’re coming to Florida to cast some lines or enjoy the incredible sunset views at no additional cost.
9. Algiers Beach
Also known as Gulfside City Park Beach, this pristine white sand beach on Sanibel Island is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing afternoon or watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Algiers Beach is quiet and tucked away, and far less busy than some of the surrounding beaches on Sanibel so it’s also one of the best places to meet the locals.
There’s a small parking fee. But it’s worth the money for the tranquil experience of relaxing on a beautiful beach with the ocean gently crashing at your feet and the Florida sun beating down (or the sun setting).
You won’t find a comparable experience on Sanibel, and that’s saying something. Algiers Beach is a true mecca of peace, far less crowded than nearby Lighthouse Beach, and just as beautiful and relaxing.
10. Captiva Beach
Slightly further north from Sanibel Island, you’ll find Captiva Island, which features a slew of pristine beaches that are pristine, clean, calm, and legendary for shelling while offering some of the most amazing views of the Gulf of Mexico in Florida.
Free and open to the public, Captiva Beach is one of the best places in Fort Myers to relax in the sun, enjoy a dip in the Gulf, or simply people-watch in the sand. Whatever you decide to do, make sure you bring plenty of sunscreen and come prepared for a good time!
11. Turner Beach
If you’re looking for one of the best fishing holes on Captiva Island, Turner Beach should be first on your bucket list. You’ll also find yourself surrounded by some of the most beautiful and unique “shelling” locations on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Since tourists tend to flock to other beaches, you’ll essentially have this place to yourself. Situated just beyond the bridge that connects Sanibel to Captiva, Turner Beach is only a short jaunt upstream from wherever you are on your dreamy Fort Myers vacation.
The best news for dog lovers is that if you’ve brought your furry friend along, they can join you at Turner Beach!
12. Bowman’s Beach
Whether you want to scour the sand for seashells or spend an afternoon basking in the hot Florida sun, you can accomplish both goals at Bowman’s Beach.
Bowman’s beach is one of the most picturesque locations in the Fort Myers area that attracts a lot of tourists coming over to Sanibel Island. The beach has playgrounds, picnic tables, and a ton of trails so it’s also an ideal destination for families vacationing with kids.
If you want to bring your fishing rod along, you’ll have to get a saltwater fishing license from the Lee County authorities. There’s a small parking fee at Bowman’s Beach. But it’s worth the small price to experience one of Sanibel’s best beaches.
13. Tarpon Bay Beach
There’s a public parking lot located only a short walk from Tarpon Bay Beach which is one of Sanibel’s most beautiful beaches, offering endless expanses of bright, white sand along with glorious views of the Gulf of Mexico’s horizon all day long.
If you’re looking for that perfect romantic spot to take your special someone for a Florida sunset, Tarpon Bay Beach is a must-visit. You won’t find a crisper, cleaner view of the reds, oranges, and pinks dancing across the evening sky.
And if you’re up for a dip in the ocean, Tarpon Bay Beach is situated far enough from the swift currents to make it an excellent spot for a relaxing swim. No matter how you spend your time, you won’t be disappointed with your visit to Tarpon Bay.
14. Cayo Costa State Park
One of the most exciting barrier island state parks to visit during your Fort Myers vacation is Cayo Costa State Park. It’s a natural island with nine miles of pristine, quiet, and secluded beachfront and one of the best-preserved natural habitats on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
The best part is that you can only get to the park by boat. So, whether you’ve launched your own or have booked a rental or a charter, make sure that Cayo Costa is on your Fort Myers bucket list.
The island features cabins, nature trails, beautiful beaches, as well as outdoor grills for the perfect sunset BBQ. If you’re a camper, Cayo Costa will also quickly become one of your favorite destinations if you’re up for a night in the Florida wilderness.
15. Boca Grande Pass
Boca Grande Pass is located just off the southernmost tip of Gasparilla Island and is one of Lee County’s most famous beaches.
There’s a small fee for entering and also a fee to get onto Gasparilla Island. But once you’re there, you can enjoy all that Boca Grande offers, including swimming in the aquamarine Gulf waters, surfing, fishing, relaxing, sunbathing, and making new friends while you soak up the scenic Florida vistas. It’s rarely too crowded, and the beaches are so soft that you might never want to leave.
Fort Myers beaches, final thoughts
Planning a trip to Fort Myers means getting ready for the time of your life. There are so many exquisite beaches to choose from that you might run out of time to experience them all.
Whatever you do, though, or no matter how long you’re staying, check out some of these awesome rental options to make your stay more luxurious and turnkey.
Even if you’re traveling with your best buddies from college, you’ll be able to find the perfect place to call home while you explore the sandy beaches of southern Florida!
Each year, thousands of seasonal travelers make the great migration to warmer climates during the winter months. These south-flocking travelers (typically retirees) are referred to as “snowbirds,” and often hail from Canada. According to the Canadian Snowbird Association, 87% of its 100,000 members are or are planning to travel to the US this year. So, how can short-term rental owners reach more of these folks? We’ll cover how you can prepare your vacation rental for snowbirds, optimize your listing, and ultimately increase your bookings and revenue.
Popular snowbird destinations
If you’re wondering where snowbirds are heading, simply follow the warmer temperatures. Arizona, California, and Florida are popular destinations for seasonal visitors. At AvantStay, San Diego, Scottsdale, and Coachella Valley were some of the most booked destinations for the winter months this year. If you’re looking to purchase your first or next vacation rental home, consider buying in one of these top destinations for snowbirds:
Snowbirds will typically be traveling a long distance to enjoy your vacation rental (and staying for an extended period) so make it feel like their home away from home. Make sure your space is stocked and ready to welcome guests. From quality linens to a fully stocked kitchen and luxury bath products, don’t skimp on the vacation rental essentials. But don’t stress—we created a complete inventory checklist to help you become the host with the most.
Now, here comes the fun part. One of the easiest ways to make your home stand out is by providing top-of-the-line amenities. There are some amenities that snowbirds view as a need rather than a nice-to-have. These can make or break a good review, so invest in the following if you can:
Fast WiFi
Smart locks for contactless check-in
Smart TVs with streaming options
Workout equipment
Pet-friendly stays
Parking
Take it one step further and provide experiential elements and amenities for all kinds of activities. Use your location for inspiration. Is your home on the water? Have kayaks, paddle boards, and other water toys ready for snowbirds to enjoy. Outdoor fire pit? Don’t forget the roasting sticks and supplies for s’mores. If budget and space aren’t an issue, consider installing a putting green or pickleball court to make your rental shine.
Also, supply equipment like beach chairs and umbrellas, towels, pool floats, tennis rackets, and pickleball paddles. These details won’t go unnoticed and can lead to more bookings and higher ratings.
Optimize your vacation rental listing
Reach more snowbirds with a well-optimized listing. This is your first touchpoint with potential guests and entices them to book a stay. Start with your title, description, and keywords. Your title should describe your vacation rental and leave travelers compelled to click your listing.
Next, use your description to paint a picture of the guest experience at your home, including all the details that make your property stand out from the competition (especially the intangible perks like location!). Be sure to list your rental’s proximity to popular snowbird activities and attractions like beaches, golf courses, museums, tennis courts, dining, and more.
Also, don’t just list amenities—describe how guests can make their own memories at your home. Do you have a cozy patio perfect for enjoying morning coffee? Or a private pool and hot tub for relaxing after a day on the golf course? Use these in your listing to encourage snowbirds to hit that “Book Now” button.
When creating your title and description, incorporate search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to further boost your reach. Research search terms (“keywords”) that are popular in your market and add those to your listing. Some examples could be “private beachfront cottage in Destin” or “dog-friendly Palm Springs vacation rental.”
Another key component of your vacation rental listing is the imagery. Capture snowbirds’ attention with eye-catching photos. Hire a professional photographer to take high-resolution photos of your vacation rental that accurately reflect the space, amenities, views, and what guests can expect when they walk into your home.
Tweak your marketing strategy for snowbirds
Promoting your vacation rental on multiple online travel agencies (OTAs) gets your home in front of more snowbirds and means more potential bookings. Airbnb, Vrbo, Expedia, and Booking.com are popular OTAs for vacation rental homes. Also, promote your rental on niche sites specifically for seasonal travelers, like American Snowbird.
Make sure you understand each site’s criteria and functionality for listing your property and create a strategy for managing your listing across each. You’ll have to stay on top of guidelines, optimizing your listing, guest inquiries, reservations, and reviews for each platform to enhance your home’s performance.
Start a vacation rental blog
Show off your local expertise with a vacation rental blog. A blog is an easy way to increase your visibility on search engines. With a thoughtful SEO strategy and the use of relevant keywords, you can drive more traffic to your website and increase bookings.
Snowbirds appreciate recommendations and tips from a local. Pair your expertise with keyword research to write useful content for potential guests. Some examples of blog topics for snowbirds include:
Allocate some of your marketing budget to social media ads. Facebook and Pinterest make it easy to narrow your target audience. You can choose to show your ads to your ideal guest by using filters like location, age, interests, and more. This allows you to get the most out of your advertising budget while optimizing for bookings.
Welcome more snowbirds with AvantStay
Successfully running a vacation rental, especially if you don’t live in the area, is a heavy lift. From keeping your home stocked and clean to strategic marketing and distribution, there are a lot of moving parts. If you want to reach more snowbirds (and travelers all year round), partner with a professional vacation rental manager.
AvantStay offers end-to-end management programs to give you peace of mind. From financials to design to maintenance, we take care of your home as if it were our own. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management, and activates an elevated guest experience. Plus, upgrades and experiences booked through our app can help snowbirds schedule tee times, organize at-home massages, request mid-stay cleans, and more! Say hello to more five-star ratings.
1. Sonoma, California – Sonoma County is a renowned wine region in California, known for its vineyards, wineries, and picturesque landscapes. In July, you can enjoy the Sonoma County Fair, featuring carnival rides, live music, agricultural exhibits, and delicious food. Don’t forget to sample some of the region’s exceptional wines while you’re there.
July is the perfect month for summer group getaways, and there are plenty of fantastic destinations to consider all across the USA. From beachside paradises to cultural hotspots, we’re rounded up ten amazing places to visit in July—plus events & festivals to enjoy and the top vacation rental accommodations for your stay. Let’s dive in!
2. San Diego, California – San Diego is a vibrant coastal city with beautiful beaches, lively neighborhoods, and a wealth of attractions. The San Diego County Fair is held in July, which features concerts, rides, and delicious fair food. The Big Bay Boom fireworks show on the 4th of July is another highlight, with fireworks launched from multiple locations around the bay.
3. Berkshires, Massachusetts – The Berkshires is a picturesque region in western Massachusetts known for its natural beauty, cultural institutions, and charming towns. In July, you can experience the Tanglewood Music Festival, a renowned summer concert series held in Lenox. Enjoy live performances by the Boston Symphony Orchestra and other acclaimed musicians in an outdoor setting.
4. Isle of Palms, South Carolina – The Isle of Palms is a stunning barrier island near Charleston, South Carolina. With pristine beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s an ideal place to unwind. In July, you can attend the Isle of Palms Beach Run, an annual 5K and 10K race. Additionally, you can celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display on the beach.
5. Temecula, California – Temecula is a charming city located in Southern California’s wine country. It’s known for its vineyards, wine tasting rooms, and beautiful landscapes. If visiting in July, you cannot miss the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival, featuring hot air balloon rides, wine tastings, live music, and food vendors.
Newport Beach is a picturesque coastal city in Southern California known for its stunning harbor, beautiful beaches, and upscale shopping. If you’re visiting during the holiday, the Newport Beach Independence Day on the Bay event is one you should attend. Experience live music, food trucks, and a dazzling fireworks display over the water.
7. Key West, Florida – Key West is an idyllic island city in the Florida Keys, known for its vibrant nightlife, historic sites, and colorful atmosphere. July is a wonderful time to visit because of the famous Key Lime Festival, a celebration of the tangy key lime pie that the island is known for. Enjoy pie-eating contests, cooking demonstrations, and live music during this lively event.
8. 30A, Florida – 30A is a scenic coastal highway in Florida that stretches along the Gulf of Mexico, passing through charming beach communities. If visiting in July, you’ll want to attend the South Walton Fourth of July Parade, which features creative floats, live music, and family-friendly activities. The celebration culminates with a fireworks show at Alys Beach.
No matter where you choose to go in July, these destinations offer a wonderful combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and exciting events. Make sure to check the specific dates and details of the festivals or events mentioned to plan your trip accordingly.
No passport required! These homes are meant for those who want to feel like they’ve traveled abroad, at a fraction of the cost. With features like Spanish architecture, Greek-like sculpture gardens, Italian kitchens, and more, this article comes complete with all you need for a budget-friendly/at-home European vacation. After all, it does seem like everyone and their mother has found a way to make it over there this summer and the last thing you’d want is to feel left out.
Via del Sur – Temecula, CA
From the gazebo, to the Spanish-style roof, to the Italian Cypress trees, Via del Sur is a dream come true for those looking to mentally cross the Atlantic. Make your stay here even more luxurious by booking a private chef via the AvantStay app and have the Mediterranean food come to you.
Paradiso – Coachella Valley, CA
Welcome to paradise at Paradiso. This lush 5 acre property is a Tuscan-style oasis just waiting to be explored. Play bocce ball in your own private court, chef it up in the modern chef’s kitchen, or set up a picnic around the lakeside gazebo.
River House – Hudson Valley, NY
The interiors at River House make us feel like we’re posted up right on the Seine River in Paris, FR. Whether you decide to spend your time getting your tan on at the pool or indulging in a nice summer read on the cozy couch, this home’s bright and airy interiors promise to make you feel like you’re overseas.
Cherry Ridge – Breckenridge, CO
It’s not the Swiss Alps, but it might as well be. This home is tucked neatly away in the mountains of beautiful Breckenridge. With an expansive deck wrapping around the entire home, you’re guaranteed to soak up all the wonders of a Colorado summer at Cherry Ridge.
Lakeview – Lake Tahoe, CA
This wonderful lakefront property made the European cut for its views. Comparable to the Lake Como area of Italy, Lakeview is made for those water lovers that don’t want to break the bank just for a nice backdrop.
Vista del Mar – San Diego, CA
All white and blue stripes, you guessed it – this one’s giving us Greek. San Diego can become Santorini at Vista del Mar, the beachy escape located in La Jolla. Sunbathe the day away on the spread out deck or walk down the street to a lovely white-sanded beach.
Villa Valencia – San Diego, CA
The Spanish-style villa, Villa Valencia, is one for entertainers. Bring up to 10 guests to this oasis tucked away in the lush hills of La Jolla. Swim all day, take a trip down the waterslide, enjoy a well-deserved drink in the hot tub, or chow down on an alfresco feast you can chef up at the outdoor kitchen.
Casa del Arbol – Temecula, CA
Where Tuscany can become Temecula. Try out a glass of local wine at Wilson Creek Winery, then indulge yourself in the rolling hills of wine country while soaking in the infinity pool. Feeling like you’re deep in the Italian countryside isn’t so tough when you’re surrounded by views like these at Casa del Arbol.
One of the most crucial aspects of vacation rental marketing is taking high-quality, eye-catching photos. When creating a listing for your home, prioritize photography! These photos are some of the first things guests notice when looking to book a stay, and are often the deciding factor when choosing between similar homes. We went to a seasoned expert to get the inside scoop on the importance of vacation rental photography.
“Vacation rental photography is all about creating an emotional connection,” says Sasha Tivetsky, AvantStay’s Associate Director of Photography. “Photos are everything when it comes to creating vacation rental listings. When guests look through photos of a home, they begin to imagine their experience there and create a story.”
How do you create an emotional connection through photos to drive more bookings? Keep reading to discover Sasha’s six simple photography tips.
1. Style your space
Styling your home takes a photoshoot to the next level. Don’t leave tables bare and boring. Bring in floral arrangements and fruits for your table settings to add to the appeal of the home. This helps guests imagine themselves enjoying your space. You aren’t selling the home, you’re selling the guest experience.
2. Take straight-on shots
Symmetrical shots are the most pleasing in vacation rental photography. Avoid taking photos in a corner and use a grid on your camera to keep all lines as straight as possible.
3. Embrace natural lighting
Natural lighting, especially golden hour, is a photographer’s best friend. When taking photos of your home, pull back the curtains or open the blinds to let all the available light into the room. Golden hour (the period of daytime right after sunrise or before sunset when light appears warmer and softer) is the best time to shoot, especially if you want to capture a west-facing pool.
4. Showcase your surroundings
Another big selling point for potential guests is your location. Promote your view and local surroundings by opening any sliding doors and windows. This helps show guests the full experience your vacation rental has to offer.
5. Avoid objects too close to the frame
Be aware of objects too close to the frame, like a table or chair. They can distort the whole image and take up precious space in your vacation rental photos.
6. Leave it to the pros
Ditch your iPhone camera and hire a professional photographer. They’ll be able to capture your home’s unique features with stunning photographs and make your home shine on saturated listing sites like Airbnb and Vrbo. Luckily, when you partner with AvantStay, you get access to our in-house stylists and photographers that will take your vacation rental marketing to the next level.
What sets AvantStay apart from other vacation rental managers is our professional styling. Our stylists incorporate unique elements to your home inspired by local surroundings—from opulent table settings to relaxing pool-side setups. They also add indoor and outdoor games to amplify your home’s experiential elements and make it feel welcoming and fun.
Next, our Photography team schedules a professional photo shoot where our stylists and photographers collaborate to ensure we capture your home at its best. We use high-end professional photography equipment and drone footage to showcase every aspect of your home. This illustrates the full potential of the stay to our guests while highlighting your home’s key revenue drivers.
Finally, our in-house Listings and Distribution team manages your inventory across more than 65 leading distribution platforms known as Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), specifically curated for your home. This leads to maximized views of your home, more bookings, better reviews, and higher revenue.
Austin’s legendary live music, bountiful outdoor activities, breakfast tacos, and eclectic arts, culture & food scenes make it one of the best places to visit in Texas year-round.
It’s often said there’s “No Place Like Texas”. There’s also no place in Texas like Austin. The Lone Star State’s capitol is renowned for almost everything that the rest of Texas is not: street art, food trucks, clothing-optional swimming holes, sightseeing, murals, and a funky individualism that’s earned the city the slogan “Keep Austin Weird”.
Lying at the western axis of the state’s big city triangle (the other two being Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth), Austin’s never been fueled by the big oil, cattle ranch stereotypes most people think of when they envision “Texas”. Being an Austinite means embracing contradictions: honky tonks next to skyscrapers, bats under bridges, old-timers drinking with tech CEOs, BBQ and French bistros, and tacos served all day.
At Austin’s heart is its legendary live music and nightlife scene. There are more music venues per capita in Austin than anywhere else in the country, giving it the reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World”. Austin City Limits is one of the longest-running music TV shows in the U.S., and the annual festival of the same name along with South by Southwest (SXSW) are two of the preeminent multi-day music events in America.
Austin’s also world-famous for its museums, state parks, and endless outdoor activities including the Bullock Texas State History Museum, the Texas Memorial Museum, Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum, Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake, Mount Bonnell, the LBJ (Lyndon B. Johnson) Presidential Library and Museum, and the Blanton Art Museum at the University of Texas. Austin’s funky vibe and buzzing downtown are also energized by the university’s 51,000 year-round students.
So, whatever brings you to Longhorn country for a weekend or if you already live here full-time, here are 31 top fun things to do in Austin to rock out, eat big, drink deep, savor a little Texas culture and history, and most importantly—stay weird.
1. Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol building is the largest capitol building in the U.S. and visiting it is one of the top fun things to do when you visit Austin. Architecturally, it’s a masterpiece of workmanship, reflecting the attention to detail in its Italian Renaissance dome, tiled rotunda, stone carvings, and red granite facade that was characteristic of the era when it was built back in 1888 before Austin’s skyline bloomed with gleaming glass high rises. Visitors can take a free 30-minute guided tour seven days a week or explore on their own, dive into Texas history at the Visitors Center next door, or discover more than 22 acres of magnificently manicured grounds outside.
2. Cool Off At Barton Springs Pool
Austin’s hot in summer (temperatures hover in the mid-90s). The good news is that there’s no lack of natural and manmade swimming holes to cool off. Barton Springs Pool is one of Austin’s most famous, located just east of downtown across the Colorado River in 358-acre Zilker Park. Barton’s pool spans three acres and is fed by the fourth largest spring in Texas delivering a constant in-flow of 67-70 degree water. The pool is open from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm daily and entrance fees are $2 – $4 for children (resident and non-resident respectively) and $5 – $9 for adults. Note for families: women may swim topless at the pool so be forewarned.
3. Feast On BBQ
Few things scream Texas more than barbeque—and Austin is home to some of the best BBQ joints in America. One of the most famous is The Salt Lick, which has three locations in the city. Their brisket, ribs, sausage, and pulled pork are slow-cooked in pits in Austin’s Hill Country and are award-winning. Austin’s other iconic BBQ joint is Franklin Barbeque, which frequently has lines extending all the way down the street. In the ten years since it opened, Franklin’s has been featured on Anthony Bourdain’s show “No Reservations”, served lunch to Barak Obama, and received a James Beard Foundation Award.
4. Tour A Local Distillery
Texas isn’t quite as famous for its whiskies, bourbons, vodkas, and gins as Kentucky. But over the past decade, Austin has put itself on the map for its up-and-coming, grain-to-glass spirits scene. Between downtown Austin and Hill Country just east of the city, there are more than two dozen distilleries that utilize local grains, botanicals, and other ingredients to stay true to their Texan roots, while also offering tours and tastings that are almost as enjoyable as the old-fashioned cocktails they serve up. Many also feature food trucks and live music. Still, Austin Whiskey Co., Dripping Springs Distillery, and Treaty Oak Distilling are local favorites.
5. Quench Your Thirst At A Craft Brewery
Austin’s legendary music combined with its recent influx of newcomers, hipsters, and Millennials has inspired an upstart craft brewery scene that’s quickly becoming one of America’s most prolific, rivaling places like Boston, Portland, and Philadelphia. Most of Austin’s local breweries are located in some of the city’s coolest buildings and also boast top-notch kitchens since food and beer naturally go hand in hand. A few of Austin’s best-known, can’t-miss breweries include Austin Beer Garden Brewing, Austin Beerworks, Hold Out Brewing, Jester King Brewery, Live Oak Brewing, and Meanwhile Brewing.
6. Sneak Into A Speakeasy
Chic-shady is the phrase many locals use to describe Austin’s infamous hidden bar scene centered downtown and around East Austin. Some speakeasies require memberships and door codes. Some only allow walk-ins when the red light is on over the door. And even if you can get a reservation at the others, most will kick you out after your allotted time (typically 2 hours). What you will find behind all of the speakeasies’ non-descript doors, however, are the best bartenders and cocktails in Austin. Midnight Cowboy, Small Victory, Here Nor There, and the Milonga Room are a few of the local favorites.
7. Watch The Congress Bridge Bats
Bat-watching probably wouldn’t rank on most people’s “best things to do” lists when visiting Austin. But it’s become one of the city’s most popular pastimes. For reasons only a chiropterologist (a person who studies bats) would understand, the Congress Avenue Bridge over Lady Bird Lake is home to the largest urban bat colony (Mexican Free-Tailed bats specifically) in North America. And every night at dusk from spring through early fall up to 1.5 million of them take to the air in swirling swarms against the sky eating up to nine tons of mosquitos, flies, wasps, and moths in a few hours. You can watch the bats from the Butler Hike & Bike Trail, the bridge itself, or from a boat, kayak, or paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake below. Just make sure you arrive early.
8. Stay At The Driskill
Manhattan has The Plaza. North Carolina has The Biltmore. And when it comes to historic hotels in Austin there’s no place more regal and architecturally significant than The Driskill at the corner of Sixth Street and Brazos Street. A Romanesque Revival masterpiece dating back to 1886, it’s the oldest hotel in the city and is steeped in Texas history and lore (LBJ and Lady Bird went on their first date here back in 1934). Today, with its original marble floors, gilded columns, and stained glass, the Driskill is still one of Austin’s best places to stay. The Driskill Bar is not to be missed either.
9. Play Chicken Shit Bingo
A little bit further down the cultural food chain but no less uniquely Austin (and definitively “weird”) is Chicken Shit Bingo, hosted at The Little Longhorn Saloon in North Austin every Sunday afternoon over a cold beer and live music. While its origins are still debated, this iconic Austin pastime draws visitors and locals alike who, for a small donation for entry, can spend a few hours watching chickens’ rear-ends as they do their business on a giant, caged-in bingo board. The cheering crowd can get raucous when the beer and cider start flowing and the chickens get going, so this is definitely one of Austin’s most Instagram-worthy experiences.
10. Visit The Umlauf Sculpture Garden And Museum
To say that Charles Umlauf’s (1911-1994) home and sculpture studio is a paradise in the city would be an understatement for Austin. Just blocks from downtown, Umlauf’s six-acre property on the south bank of Blanton Creek, which he gifted to the city along with more than 60 of his sculptures back in 1984, is today one of Austin’s open space crown jewels. Now known as the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum Umlauf’s former home is set among landscaped ponds, native plants, fern gardens, and moss-covered live oaks where adults can explore Umlauf’s works in wood, terracotta, bronze, and marble while kids go on guided “safari” tours.
11. Take In Some Street Art At HOPE Outdoor Gallery
Austin’s HOPE Outdoor Gallery is a temple to Austin’s street art (“I Love You So Much” made the city famous). Since 2010, every inch of this abandoned construction site has been spray-painted with everything from cartoon characters to cats in space. Today, visitors and locals gather here to see the new art or add some of their own, while also taking part in the classes, dinner parties, and different events the Gallery puts on. The original HOPE Outdoor Gallery downtown closed in 2019. A new, bigger, better 18-acre HOPE community art park and cultural events center is slated to open later this year which will include a rooftop bar, art supply store, event space, community walls, local vendors, and food trucks.
12. Get Thrifty On Guadalupe Street
The last neighborhood where I lived in Philadelphia was famous for its vintage thrifting and antique shopping for everything from furniture and tuxedos to Homer Simpson statues. I’d often meet people coming from as far away as Brooklyn. Austin’s strip of stores around W. 29th Street and Guadalupe Street is equally legendary and quickly becoming a destination in itself. You can thrift here, bargain hunt, and shop for vintage clothes at the half-dozen shops that carry mostly used threads. When the weather’s nice most of the stores also usually spill over onto the sidewalks so Guadalupe quickly becomes way more social than just the shopping until you drop.
13. Catch A Flick (and an Old-Fashioned) At Alamo Drafthouse
Every city has “institutions”. And if there’s one in Austin that almost everyone would agree on it’s the Alamo Drafthouse. Started by two Rice University grads back in 1997 in the Warehouse District in an old parking garage, this place is part cinema house, part restaurant, and bar and was one of the first places in the country to popularize the watch-eat-drink hybrid model. Renowned for its inventive festivals, and the balance of blockbusters and indy films, while also hosting other events year-round, the Alamo Drafthouse has since expanded in and outside of Austin. But its roots will always be here.
14. Take A Dip At Hamilton Pool
If there’s one thing Austin and its surrounding Hill Country is known for, it’s swimming holes—and Hamilton Pool is one of the finest, most picturesque places in the great State of Texas to cool off and while away an afternoon. Located on a 234-acre nature preserve and the result of the collapse of an underground river a thousand years ago, Hamilton Pool has geography all its own with a waterfall, a massive overhanging roof, deep green jade water, and a beach. Just remember to plan ahead. If you’re visiting between April and September you’ll need to reserve a 4-hour time slot.
15. Stay Cool At Deep Eddy Pool
Deep Eddy Pool was built in 1915 by a man named A.J. Eilers, Sr. who bought the land surrounding the swimming hole and envisioned building a natural, spring-fed swimming pool just minutes from downtown. Eponymously named for a distinct eddy that forms by a large boulder in the pool, Deep Eddy is the oldest swimming pool in Texas and is one of the most popular swimming areas in the city where kids can wade, parents can swim laps, and there are also events like poolside movies in summer. The pool is open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm daily and adult passes are $5 – $9/day for a resident and non-resident respectively (kids under 12 are $2 and $4).
16. Go On A Taco Crawl
Few activities pay homage to Austin’s illustrious Tex-Mex culinary history better than a city-wide taco tour, whether you’re a long-time local or just in town for the weekend. Somehow, some time ago Austin also got famous for its breakfast tacos—since just feasting on them for lunch and dinner isn’t enough. Veracruz All Natural which has several locations is a longtime Austinites’ favorite, along with Tacodeli and Torchy’s Tacos, which started as a food truck and now has over 50 locations. Bring your patience to your taco crawl as well as your appetite though—the lines at some of these joints are as famous as the tacos.
17. Rock Out At The White Horse
Every great southern city seems to have a legendary honky tonk or live music venue called the White Horse. And Austin doesn’t disappoint on this front (take that Nashville . . .). The White Horse in East Austin is one of the city’s coolest live music venues and hosts live music and bands every day of the week pretty much non-stop. It’s also one of Austin’s top taco spots including an excellent breakfast taco menu for some of the best late-night/early-morning eating in the city. There’s also whiskey on tap and free dance lessons Tuesday through Saturday. Any questions?
18. Get Aquatic On Lady Bird Lake
One of the city’s top destinations for outdoor and watersports activities, Lady Bird Lake is actually a dammed-up section of the Colorado River just east of downtown Austin adjacent to the Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park. It’s the ideal place especially in summer to beat the heat, chill with your friends and family, pack up a picnic, go canoeing, paddleboarding, or kayaking, or take a sunset river cruise since the views of Austin’s skyline are second to none. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail also runs over 10 miles around the lake so you’ve got picture-perfect urban terrain for a long walk, run, or ride.
19. Visit Hill Country
Unless you’re a hunter, many visitors don’t think of Texas for its nature and the outdoors. The Hill Country west of Austin will very quickly convince you otherwise. Hill Country’s undulating landscape, big skies, stunning sunsets, and technicolor spring flower blooms will take your breath away. There are also many fun things to do on the more culinary and cultural side of things. Dripping Springs, Texas is a picture-perfect Texas frontier throw-back town and Fredericksburg is home to more than 45 wineries and vineyards as well as several state parks, historic sites, bed & breakfasts, and swimming holes.
20. Boat (And Catch A Sunset) On Lake Travis
Lake Travis is to Austin what Lake Mead is to Las Vegas—an original flood-control reservoir on the Colorado River that’s now one of the best places for locals and visitors to boat, fish, waterski, wakeboard, and engage in dozens of other watersports and outdoor activities just 15 miles from downtown. There are several boat rental operations on both sides of the lake that can get you out on the water or take you out on a Texas-sized sunset cruise, and also don’t miss the Oasis with its multi-patio deck overlooking the lake, unparalleled views, a massive restaurant, and multiple bars and breweries. (Note: Lake Austin is pretty great for boating also).
21. Hike Up Mount Bonnell
If Lake Travis hasn’t satisfied your thirst for Austin’s outdoors, put on your hiking shoes and hoof it up the roughly 600’ to the top of Mount Bonnell in 5.1-acre Covert Park just northwest of downtown. This limestone escarpment over the Colorado River faces both east and west, offering spectacular sunrise and sunset views as well as one of the best panoramas of downtown Austin’s skyline in the city. If you’re driving park at the north end of Covert Park and a trail will lead you south along the top of the cliff. This is one of Austin’s top spots for a romantic picnic or an outdoor date.
22. Circuit of The Americas
The Circuit of The Americas opened in 2012 to great fanfare and remains one of the top attractions in Austin. Home to the Formula One United States Grand Prix, the Motorcycle Grand Prix of the Americas, and the IndyCar Classic among several other racing events, this 5.5 kilometers, serpentine race track is a marvel of engineering and geometry, specifically built to offer spectators clear lines of sight from almost every viewing angle. It’s also one of the only Formula One tracks that you can drive or see artists like Metallic or Kayne West at the Austin 360 Amphitheater when there’s not a race going on.
23. Attend A Longhorn’s Football Game
With its 51,000+ students and 1,438-acre campus, the University of Texas is a destination in itself when you’re visiting Austin. And its Division I NCAA football team, the Longhorns—who have won four NCAA football championships over the years—is a powerhouse. So, if you’re a sports fan it doesn’t get any better than tailgating and watching a game during football season. U of T’s Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium can house more than 100,000+ crazed hometown fans and is one of the ten largest stadiums in the world in any sport. Just learn how to do the “Hook ’em Horns” hand signal beforehand before you go.
24. Take A Stroll Along South Congress Avenue
If you want to shop, stroll, or saunter while you’re visiting Austin, South Congress Avenue—a.k.a. “SoCo”—is the place to do it. This six-lane boulevard consists of five, funky walkable blocks southwest of downtown that is home to some of Austin’s best locally-grown boutiques, galleries, bars, restaurants, and live music. Allens Boots, one of Austin’s iconic purveyors of Texas western wear and boots is here, where caiman belly boots can go for $2,000, along with famous costume stores like Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds. SoCo since 2010 has also been at the epicenter of Austin’s famed food truck scene so it’s one of the best places in the city for foodies.
25. Rainey Street
On the subject of funky, keep-it-weird neighborhoods, Rainey Street is another one of Austin’s most unique and eccentric. Rooted in historic craftsman architecture from the 1930s and re-invigorated by a thriving bar, live music, and entertainment scene, Rainey Street is a pageantry of food trucks, patio lights, boutique-chic restaurants, speakeasies, and buzzing bars. It gets crowded here and on the weekends it’s definitely more touristy than local. But if you want to get a slice of Austin’s ultra-hip, up-and-coming nightlife scene this is the spot.
26. Jam Out At Austin City Limits
There’s nothing quite as legendary in Austin when it comes to live music than PBS’s Austin City Limits (ACL). The longest-running music television show dating back to 1974, ACL has hosted the likes of Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and Neil Young at the peak of their careers and introduced a new artist to America every week for the past fifty years. The 2,750-person, new venue, ACL Live At Moody Theater built in 2011 as part of a $300 million mixed-use downtown development, is also reputed to have some of the best acoustics of any stage between Austin and Nashville.
27. South By Southwest (SXSW)
Hands down South By Southwest a.k.a. SXSW is one of the grandest and most celebrated live music festivals in the world. It’s also an art, cultural, and culinary celebration of Austin and its off-beat vibe which now attracts hundreds of thousands of people to the city every March. First started in 1987, the event frequently features more than 2,000 musical acts from over 40 countries at venues around the city but also includes panel discussions, talks by venture capitalists, workshops with tech leaders, and exhibits showcasing emerging start-ups and technologies—for which Austin is becoming well known.
28. Bullock Texas State History Museum
If you want to learn about Texas’s history as well as the state’s contributions to America and the world this is the place to start. Located behind a big Texas star a few blocks south of the Texas State Capitol Building, the Bullock Texas State History Museum is one of Austin’s top destinations for families, locals, and visitors featuring exhibits on the area’s pre-history 16,000 years ago all the way up to rodeos, ranching, oil and gas drilling, and space exploration today. Exhibits include a real-life NASA Mission Control console from the 1960s as well as the largest IMAX theatre in the state.
29. Blanton Museum of Art
The University of Texas’s Blanton Museum of Art is the envy of almost every other American city. It’s one of the city’s most renowned cultural attractions, one of the largest university art museums in the U.S., and an architectural icon unto itself. The museum houses more than 18,000 works of European, contemporary American, and Latin American art along with rare pieces by Veronese, Rubens, Parmigianino, Simon Vouet, Yayoi Kusama, Natalie Frank, and Nina Katchadourian. It’s also wrapped in limestone panels from Alicante, Spain, 33 stained glass windows mouth-blown in Germany, and Carrera tiles from around the world. If you’re an art or architectural lover, this is an Austin can’t-miss.
30. Zilker Park
Zilker Park is Austin’s pre-eminent oasis in the city with more than 350 acres of open space, gardens, events (it hosts Austin City Limits), outdoor activities, and fun things to do year-round. Anchored by the confluence of Barton Creek and the Colorado River, the park was given to the city by politician and philanthropist Andrew Jackson Zilker in 1918 and now includes volleyball and disc golf areas, the Hillside Theater for summer plays, the Austin Science and Nature Center, the Zilker Botanical Garden, and the Lady Bird Lake Trail. The views of Austin’s skyline from here are also jaw-dropping.
31. LBJ Presidential Library and Museum
Before George H.W. and George W. Bush, it was Lyndon B. Johnson who made Texas famous for breeding American Presidents. So for American history aficionados or anyone interested in learning more about the pivotal years in the U.S. between 1963 – 1969 when landmark legislation like the Voting Rights and Civil Rights Acts were passed when Johnson was President, there is no more sacred shrine. The museum has exhibits about the JFK assassination and delves into complicated issues like social justice as well as international conflicts like the Vietnam War. The museum also includes the original presidential limousine and a replica of LBJ’s Oval Office.
We love festival season because nothing gets us more excited than music, friends, and a magical trip.
From luxury estates to mid-century modern hotels across Coachella Valley, AvantStay offers accommodations for any group size and vibe you’re going for.
A few of our own team members attended the 2022 festivals. Here’s what they had to say about their festival experiences at our homes:
“The festivities started as soon as we arrived, with welcome gifts that set the mood for the whole weekend. Think disposable cameras, bucket hats, water bottles, and glittery stickers!” — Justin Sun, Growth Marketing Associate
“There was a sense of camaraderie at the pool each morning after spending all evening on the polo fields. We cracked open our JuneShine, swapped stories, and got to know the other guests at Monkey Tree Hotel by AvantStay just like they were our best friends!” — Jess Bird, Listings & Distribution Manager
“Going to the festivals in Coachella Valley is always a fun reason to get dressed up and express my style. I love how the design of the rooms and living spaces at our AvantStay were just as creative as the outfits you see at the concerts.” — Amber Biel, Graphic Designer
With another successful festival season under our belts, we’re already thinking about next year’s celebration and getting our 55+ properties in Coachella Valley ready for your arrival. That means prepping your swag bag, getting the pool toys out, setting up the photo booth, and creating comfy lounge spaces for hangouts between concerts. See you on the fields!
One thing about us: we’re firm believers that you should never have to leave your hobbies at home. That’s why we created this MVP roundup of vacation homes with private basketball courts – perfect for players that like to consider themselves sharpshooters, fanatics, and everything in between.
1. Burgundy – Temecula
Burgundy is guaranteed to get your head in the game – vacation and all. Sprawl out in this Temecula, CA oasis filled with all the vacation activities you could ever need: a private basketball court, gazebo, pool, hot tub, and plenty of outdoor lounge areas for an al fresco dining moment. When you’re ready for a change of scenery, try out a wine-tasting experience at one of the local vineyards, like Wilson Creek Winery.
2. Lotus – Scottsdale
He shoots, he scores (with this home). Lotus is a 4 bedroom stay in Scottsdale, AZ with room for up to 11 guests. Get your head in the game with all this outdoor oasis has to offer: a newly renovated basketball court, fire pit, and an oh-so-inviting pool.
3. Preston – Scottsdale
Swish you were here! Located in Scottsdale, AZ, Preston is this retreat-ready estate with its own basketball court, wet bar, casita, and sleek interiors. The game doesn’t stop once you step off the court – thanks to this pool’s basketball net, you can have a slam-dunk swim sesh. At night, relax under the palm trees decked out with LED lights and enjoy a dreamy glow during your night swim.
4. Villa Verdot – Temecula
Game on. Villa Verdot is a Temecula, CA stay complete with a basketball court, spacious lawn, patio, putting green, pool, hot tub, and tennis court. Relax in the hammock after a game or two then make your way to the outdoor kitchen where you can show everyone who the grill master is around here. Enjoy a meal al fresco or head inside to the expansive dining table and cheers to a vacay well done.
5. The Riesling Retreat – Temecula
Odds are, if you’re taking a trip to Temecula, CA, you’ve got a thing for wine. Next time you find yourself in wine country, stay at The Riesling Retreat – a vacation home just as sweet as its name. This expansive estate has room for up to 14 guests and has a pickleball/basketball court, volleyball court, and a putting green. Grill it up on the BBQ and enjoy dinner al fresco or head to the local favorite Bluewater Grill.
6. La Barrique – Temecula
We hope you’re a team player – this home’sgot room for the whole crew, up to 25 guests. Nestled between Temecula, CA’s famous vineyards and mountain views, La Barrique comes with a ping pong table, basketball hoop, pool, beach volleyball court, and firepit made for enjoying sips of local wine.
7. Casa Rey – Scottsdale
From the pool to the hot tub, the basketball court to the tennis court, Casa Rey’sgot it going on. Lucky for you, this stay’s located in sunny Scottsdale, AZ where you get 330 days of sunshine a year. When you’ve soaked up all the sun you can handle, hang out under the shaded pavilion or throw your own cocktail party in the chic living room. Cheers!
8. Heavenly Valley – Big Bear
Welcome to Heavenly Valley! This Big Bear summer paradise awaits on a private 1.5-acre lot with a heated pool and hot tub. Enjoy spacious living areas, a game room with a pool table, and a cozy wet bar. Dive into relaxation with a private swimming pool, spa, and sauna, or have fun on the tennis/basketball court, shuffleboard, and horseshoe pit. Plus, there’s a private guest house for added comfort and privacy.
9. Villa Verbena – Coachella Valley
Coachella Valley is home to this stunner of a stay complete with a pool for lounging during the day, a fire pit for gathering around with friends, and string lights overhead for when the sun sets and the party comes alive. We see the way you’re looking at the screen – it seems like Villa Verbena’s scored as the winner of your next vacation home.
They say don’t judge a book by its cover, but that couldn’t be less true when it comes to a vacation rental home. Your vacation rental’s interior design (and how it’s displayed in photos across listing sites) is one of the first things potential guests notice when deciding to book a stay.
Luckily, when you partner with AvantStay you get full access to our award-winning vacation rental interior design and procurement services that instantly add value to your home while increasing occupancy. Our talented interior designers build a free, custom design strategy for your home that inspires both you and our guests to feel their most comfortable—creating lasting memories while saving you thousands. Keep reading to find out why vacation rental interior design is critical to your success and how AvantStay can increase your home’s equity, drive more positive reviews, and maximize your revenue.
The benefits of investing in vacation rental interior design
Only AvantStay homeowners have access to our award-winning professional Design and Photography teams who elevate homes in under nine days, instantly increasing your home’s equity and maximizing your ROI. We help you procure high-quality, durable furniture and upscale amenities. We also take care of the professional photoshoot—for free!
Attract more guests
Our brand is defined and recognized by a consistent aesthetic across our homes. This includes new furnishings, stylish decor, and top-of-the-line amenities. Professionally designed properties attract guests who appreciate and respect the elements that make your home special. After all, that’s why they booked it!
Earn higher ratings
Homes with branded, thoughtfully designed interiors 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. Homes that look their best make guests feel their best.
Increase your revenue
When AvantStay refurbishes your home, you maximize your property’s value and increase 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. An increase in revenue is the ultimate goal, right?
Save time and money
Renovating and designing a home is a pricey and time-consuming project to take on alone. When we do the heavy lifting to refurbish your property with our discounted rates, you’ll save time and money that would have been spent doing it yourself or with an independent designer.
How does AvantStay’s vacation rental interior design program work?
Our in-house Design team helps homeowners redesign and curate experiential spaces for gathering. When you partner with AvantStay, we provide general design upgrades ranging from light renovations (reflooring, repainting, switching out light fixtures, maximizing space by adding bedrooms, etc.) to completely refurbishing the home to fit within our brand standards, aesthetically and functionally.
We help you procure high-quality, durable furniture, equipment, and amenities to elevate the guest experience and drive premium daily rates. We pass along our discounted rates to you so you capture those savings, and coordinate delivery and installation on your behalf so you don’t have to lift a finger!
The turnaround period from when we start working on a home’s design (including purchasing, installation, and photography) to going live on our website takes an average of 30 to 45 days. To begin, we do a virtual scan and walkthrough of your home using Matterport. This shows our interior designers everything they need to fully design and transform a space, including detailed floor plans.
Once we have the 3D scan, we begin creating a design deck that shows recommendations in line with your budget and potential increased revenue projections. We recommend changes that will have the most impact on driving guest satisfaction, higher occupancy, and ultimately revenue performance. Once you agree to our recommendations, we procure the items with our suppliers at 20-60% discounts and coordinate the necessary delivery and installation.
“Our goal for the design transformation is to appeal to travelers looking for a quick getaway, wanting to explore a new town, and experience the local flare,” says Candace Rein, AvantStay’s Associate Creative Director of Standards and Innovation. “Our design is elevated, thoughtful, and aspirational. We want our guests to feel inspired by the space.”
Our stylists then incorporate unique elements to your home inspired by local surroundings. They add indoor and outdoor games to improve the experiential elements of the home as well as make it feel welcoming and fun.
“What differentiates us from our competitors is that while all of our homes are different, we consistently approach design with group experiences in mind,” says Candace. “We look at these single-family STRs with a hotel approach by utilizing every square foot with some kind of experiential aspect. Whether it’s a game table, a beautifully curated gallery wall, or providing extra seating by extending the dining table double the standard size, it’s about highlighting the home’s amenities and designing around that.”
Next, our in-house Photography team schedules a professional photoshoot where our stylists and photographers collaborate to ensure our detailed guidelines are met. We use high-end professional photography equipment and drone footage to showcase every aspect of your home. This illustrates the full potential of the stay to our guests while highlighting your home’s key revenue drivers.
Finally, our in-house Listings and Distribution team manages your inventory across more than 60 leading distribution platforms known as Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), specifically curated for your home. This leads to maximized views of your home, more bookings, better reviews, and higher revenue.
Design and capital improvements increase your home’s equity, maximizing your ROI. Let us do the heavy lifting and work with you to create the perfect vacation rental interior design plan for your home.
If you’re interested in learning more about AvantStay’s vacation rental management and interior design services, our team of experts is ready to help. Get started today!
Are you on the hunt for a vacation rental management company that goes above and beyond for you and your home? Look no further! When you partner with AvantStay, you’ll receive best-in-class care, guaranteed. To do so, we built a national brand and hospitality platform designed for the way people travel today, all while maintaining a local presence. We provide a hotel-like experience with the comforts of a home, supported by our proprietary, tech-enabled operational dashboards, and an industry-leading ratio of dedicated on-the-ground field teams that keep your home in excellent condition year-round. Keep reading to discover how AvantStay provides an exceptional homeowner experience, premium home care, and a first-class experience for guests.
Exceptional homeowner experience
Our top priority is to simplify the short-term rental process for our homeowners and create lasting memories for our guests. As an AvantStay homeowner, you’ll receive unmatched personalized service and visibility from our dedicated local support teams and tech-enabled platform.
Industry-leading home-to-team ratio
We have a best-in-class ratio of local support to homes with 24/7 dispatching. Each AvantStay home is assigned three main contacts: an Owner Experience Manager, local Area Manager, and a Regional Manager, so you always have a point of contact and quick response times. Our local teams are also available 24/7 for dispatch to your home within 45 minutes, should any issues arise.
Tech-enabled platform
AvantStay homeowners stay in the know with our proprietary tech suite that provides property insights, work order management visibility, and better guest management and home protection. With Lighthouse, our digital owner portal, homeowners can view all information related to property bookings, view revenue information for reservations, access monthly statements, and more!
Premium care for your vacation rental home
To ensure that every AvantStay property is meticulously cared for, we employ a highly trained staff with the highest standards of professionalism and care. At your home, our local operations teams manage maintenance, upkeep, and surveillance, while our housekeeping team professionally cleans after every stay in adherence with CDC cleaning standards and our 100-point cleaning checklist. We also have pre-negotiated rates with top local vendors that we know and trust, saving you money on maintenance costs.
Proactive home care
We like to be proactive, not reactive. Every quarter, we conduct a full inspection and audit with seasonal considerations to prevent issues before they arise, ensuring your home is cared for and maintained. In addition, we perform three indoor/outdoor home inspections between each guest stay: a post-guest checkout inspection, an inspection of clean, and a pre-arrival inspection.
Preferred vendor network
We have local pre-vetted vendors at negotiated wholesale rates, allowing you to increase profits. Our boots-on-the-ground team maintains relationships with vendors in every market, allowing us to deliver consistent, premium service levels.
We’re also able to keep a pulse on quality control with our dedicated vendor management app, Fresh. The app is integrated with our operational processes and systems and provides work order approval flows, instructions, and quality standards for all field operations.
Smart technology package
Our monitoring and prevention (IoT) technology package is added to each home during the onboarding process and installed at no cost to homeowners. This includes a keyless entry system, Ring video camera, and NoiseAware and Party Squasher devices. We can monitor noise levels and ensure our guests don’t engage in any excessive partying that could disturb your neighbors or disrupt your community.
Our technology package is also integrated into our operational dashboard, giving our Guest Experience team real-time insight into what’s happening at each property. Our team is alerted anytime someone calls the customer service line about your home. We monitor any neighbor complaints coming through so we can watch security trends both at your home and in the market to decide if additional measures need to be taken.
First-class guest experience
We set the new standard for vacation rentals by delivering a consistent, high-quality vacation experience. We give guests all the amenities of a hotel, paired with the comfort of a private home. One of the ways we’re able to do this is with our app. Guests can request upgrades and experiences via our app to book a private chef or in-home massages, request fridge stocking, schedule mid-stay cleans, and more. In addition, our local partnerships offer guests an opportunity to experience any destination like a local with personalized recommendations and exclusive discounts.
Partner with the vacation rental experts
Employing a combination of our best-in-class care, streamlined back-end operations and technology, and elevated hospitality brand, AvantStay helps you earn more revenue than any other property management company. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s returns—it’s that simple.
Revered as country music’s capital, famous for its Broadway bar scene, and notorious for bachelorette bus parties, Nashville has also been growing up fast over the past decade, rapidly redefining itself with a new, more sophisticated identity all while retaining its Broadway honky tonk, Johnny Cash roots.
Nashville is now home to one of the hottest up-and-coming culinary scenes in America, along with recently attracting companies like Amazon and TikTok to a shiny new skyline along the Cumberland River that never seems to stop reaching new heights with another high-rise apartment building coming out of the ground.
Meanwhile, Music City’s arts, culture, and sports scenes are also thriving, breathing new life into old neighborhoods and sparking an exploding real estate market downtown and across the river in places like East Nashville as a constant inflow of new residents and young families move in creating an abundance of fun things to do.
Nashville and central Tennessee are also a land of lakes, rolling hills, protected open space, and parks steeped in American history and ante-Bellum architecture, which offer visitors and residents as many opportunities to get outside and stay active as there are to deep dive into the city’s culture, musical history, music museums, and live music scene.
So, whether you’re coming to Nashville for business or vacation, a new resident or an old local, or just passing through, here are 33 of the top things to do while you’re in town including some venerable “can’t miss” Nashville attractions and events as well as some off the radar secrets that you won’t find on other lists.
If Nashville had a Radio City Music Hall, the Grand Ole Opry would be it. Founded as the home to an old-school music radio broadcast back in 1925—“the show that made country music famous”—seeing a country, folk, bluegrass, or gospel show at the Opry today has the feel of a music industry rite of passage.
Over the years, the Opry stage has carried the voices of virtually every famous country star old and new including Charlie Daniels, George Jones, Lorette Lynn, Dolly Parton, Dierks Bentley, Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, and Keith Urban. Opry visitors can also get a tour of the dressing rooms and the famous stage itself.
A National Historic Landmark built in 1892, the Ryman Auditorium is the hallowed “Soul of Nashville” and is considered to be one of the finest and most celebrated live music venues in America.
In addition to playing a key role in popularizing bluegrass and country music, “The Ryman” as it’s known locally is also where Johnny Cash and June Carter met and where some of the most iconic scenes in “Coal Miner’s Daughter” starring Loretta Lynn were filmed. Catching a show here at night feels like you’re living country music history.
A.k.a. “Honky Tonk Highway”, the five-block, late-night, neon stretch of Lower Broadway in downtown Nashville is Music City’s equivalent to Bourbon Street in New Orleans—home to the clubs, bars, and saloons that have made Nashville synonymous with live music, and the honky tonks world-famous for getting a glimpse of country music’s next great artist.
During the day, Broadway is also one of Nashville’s marquee destinations where visitors can shop, grab BBQ or hot chicken, or hop on an old-fashioned trolley tour. So don’t just limit your time here to after-hours mechanical bull riding and singing karaoke in a rhinestone jumpsuit.
Music Row is the most iconic street in Nashville and to the music industry what Hollywood is to movies. Located in a historic district southwest of downtown, it’s home to the headquarters, offices, and recording studios of virtually every big player in country, gospel, and Christian music including record labels like RCA and Sony, publishing and video production houses, and music licensing firms.
More recently, the historic district in and around Music Row has been actively preserved to protect its sacred place in Nashville’s history as well as the music industry. No trip to Music City is complete without a tour here. You can also eat, drink, and shop at dozens of venues nearby while exposing yourself to the unique Nashville sounds and music.
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum features one of the largest collections of musical memorabilia in the world and is the ultimate Mecca for fans who want to learn about the past, present, and future of country music.
Showcasing more than 2.5 million artifacts, photographs, instruments, stage costumes, original recordings, and more it would be easy to spend an entire day here immersed in the interactive displays, watching films, and exploring the exhibits. The Museum also features events and live performances by some of country music’s top artists.
Country music wouldn’t exist today were it not for the “Man In Black”—Johnny Cash—and no visit to Music City would be worth it without a trip to The Johnny Cash Museum.
Featuring the world’s largest collection of Cash’s original costumes, instruments, artwork, handwritten notes and letters, and other memorabilia chronicling his life and legacy, there’s no better way to learn about his impact on music and the evolution of country. Listening stations and a live Johnny Cash cover band ensure this experience covers all five senses as well.
Imagine—as the name suggests—sitting right next to a real-life country music star, their session musicians, producers, and sound engineers to see in real-time how #1 hits get made behind the scenes and before anyone else hears them on the radio.
Imagine Recordings offers private groups of up to 100 the rare opportunity to experience a live, carefully curated 90-minute recording session at the historic Soundstage Studios on Music Row where over 600 #1 hits have been recorded by some of country’s most famous stars and emerging artists. If you want to be the first to hear the next big hit, Imagine is your chance.
The Wildhorse Saloon literally has it all under one roof right in the heart of downtown Nashville on 2nd Street along the Cumberland River—including 66,000 square feet of dance floor, live music stages, bars, and an award-winning Southern smokehouse restaurant spread out over three floors.
It’s Music City’s premier venue for parties and special events, as well as one of the best places in town to learn how to line dance on the largest dance floor in Tennessee or take in a live music show from the likes of Ringo Starr and Darius Rucker.
A few blocks away from the Wildhorse Saloon across the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge to the other side of the Cumberland River is the 6.5-acre Cumberland Park, one of Nashville’s best open spaces for families and a waterfront stomping ground for kids of all ages.
There are bike paths, a climbing wall, trails through butterfly gardens, playgrounds, water and misting features to cool off in summer, and an outdoor amphitheater for concerts and events. If you’re traveling to Nashville with kids, this park is a must-visit. It also offers stunning views of Music City’s skyline throughout the day but especially at sunset.
No trip to Nashville is complete without getting out onto the water and the General Jackson Showboat is the best way to experience the Cumberland River.
One of the largest showboats with a traditional paddlewheel ever built, General Jackson offers classic Southern cuisine, live music in multiple venues, and the chance to take in dinner and a show all on the same night with some of the best views of downtown Nashville imaginable. Whether you’re coming to Music City for romance, business, live music, or family fun this is one trip you shouldn’t miss.
Formerly the family home of Mabel and Leslie Cheek, Cheekwood Estate and Gardens is considered one of the top botanical gardens and one of the finest American Country estates in the country.
Built in the 1930s, visitors can tour the massive Georgian mansion with its collection of over 7,000 historical objects and artwork and 55 acres of perfectly-manicured gardens with stunning views of the surrounding area. There’s also a 1.5-mile-long trail that winds through modern and contemporary outdoor sculpture installations that are perfect for kids and art lovers alike.
A must-visit for car enthusiasts and NASCAR fans, Nashville’s Lane Motor Museum features the largest collection of European automobiles in the U.S., including more than 150 cars and motorcycles dating from the early 1900s all the way up to some of the finest sports cars made today.
All of the one-of-a-kind automobiles, microcars, amphibious and military vehicles, alternative fuel vehicles, and prototypes are maintained in pristine running order and visitors can also learn about the engineering, politics, geography, and economics that shaped the history of driving while they’re marveling at the cars.
A short walk up the street from Lower Broadway’s honky tonks and bars, a gorgeous white marble building that initially served as Nashville’s first post office now houses the Frist Art Museum.
Opened in 2001, the Frist Museum is widely regarded as one of the finest art museums in America featuring 12-15 rotating exhibits every year from some of the most prestigious collections in the world. For families and visitors looking to enjoy great art and sculpture while they’re taking a break from eating BBQ and listening to live music, this is a Nashville arts and culture must-do.
If science and adventure are more your things than sculpture and contemporary art, Nashville’s Adventure Science Center offers the perfect family-friendly day to keep your kids busy, curious, and entertained.
Focused on a hands-on approach, kids are encouraged to learn about science and the natural world through interactive activities like building stations, painting classes, virtual reality experiences, live science demonstrations, and a 63-foot state-of-the-art dome theater and planetarium. There are also programs and events designed for adults like “Way Late Play Date” where visitors can learn about space through a Star Trek-themed program (all with a drink in hand).
Founded by actor-turned-politician Ben Jones who played Cooter Davenport in the long-running TV series “Dukes Of Hazzard”, Cooters pays homage to the cars, stunts, props, and costumes that made the show one of America’s most beloved.
In addition to all of the original memorabilia, Cooters also features Cooter’s Tow Truck, Daisy’s Jeep, Rosco’s Patrol Car, and the General Lee, the 1969 Dodge Charger that eventually became the symbol of the show for millions. For fans of the show, there are few better places for a photo op or Instagram post in Nashville than here.
In the annals of Music City honky tonk, it doesn’t get any more historic than Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge on Broadway. During the day it’s one of the most photographed spots in downtown Nashville with its bright purple exterior. At night, there’s usually a line stretching around the corner with visitors looking to get in to sip a drink where Willie Nelson started his career, and musicians like Kris Kristofferson, Waylon Jennings, and Patsy Cline were once regular customers.
Despite its rich history, Tootsie’s is still also one of Nashville’s best honky tonks to hear live music so try to get in for a show if you can. You’ll feel like you’re a part of country music history.
Originally the epicenter of Nashville’s printing industry stretching back to the late 1800s and home to Music City’s speakeasies during Prohibition, Printer’s Alley is now ground zero for Nashville’s thriving nightclub scene which has been evolving since the 1940s when the first one opened here.
The place has a kind of Broadway-meets-European feel to it since no cars are allowed and there’s always a vibrant foot traffic scene with nightlife gathering outside of the clubs, bars, and burlesque joints. With its bright lights and neon signs, it’s also another one of Nashville’s best spots for selfies and Instagram posts.
Hatch Show Print is as historically embedded into Nashville’s country music scene as the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Theater. It’s one of America’s oldest working letterpress poster shops that’s been in business since 1879, churning out original art and show posters for three generations of Music City stars and entertainers from Elvis Presley in the old days to today’s hottest country music artists.
Visitors can tour the shop, watch the old-school style printing presses in action, and even have an original poster of their own made on-site to commemorate their trip. If music is any part of why you’re coming to town, this is a can’t-miss destination.
The Nashville Predators, or the “Preds” as they’re called locally, have been one of the top professional ice hockey teams for the past decade, reaching the NHL Finals in 2017. And once the puck drops in “Smashville” from November to June you’d better hold on to your hats since the Preds are renowned around the league for the fast-paced, hard-hitting game.
The best part about seeing the Preds play live, however, is what happens before and after the game. Unlike most NHL arenas which are located miles from downtown, the Preds home ice at Bridgestone Arena is within walking distance of Lower Broadway. So, the only thing louder than the fans themselves is typically the bands at the honkytonks you can walk to afterward.
Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center is more an adventure than it is a typical resort or hotel. So, if you’re looking for a place to stay in Nashville that you’d never want to leave this is it.
The 9-acre atrium looks like a glassed-in city featuring waterfalls, fountains, and reflecting pools open year-round along with more than a dozen restaurants, a world-class spa, 2,712 luxury rooms, and 176 suites. There’s also a golf course and SoundWaves, Nashville’s premier water park. You could easily spend a week on a family vacation here and never run out of things to do.
Speaking of waterparks, if aquatic adventure is what gets your family’s play-all-day pulse up no visit to Nashville or Tennessee is complete without an afternoon at Nashville Shores.
Powered by more than a million gallons of water, the wave pools, splash pads, water slides, pools, and rivers comprise one of the largest outdoor waterparks in the country. Nashville Shores also features a treetop adventure course with zip lines, cargo nets, and rope courses spanning the canopies so you’re done underwater you can soar in the sky.
America’s 9th largest zoo located six miles south of downtown, the Nashville Zoo is the ideal family-friendly activity for visitors during the day between learning to line dance and honky tonk crawling at night.
The Nashville Zoo houses more than 3,000 animals from 350 different species spread out over 188 acres that were once a historic 1800s homestead (the original home is still there). The zoo also offers camps and classes for kids as well as one-on-one animal interactions for feeding and taking pictures.
Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is the former home of President Andrew Jackson (1829-1837) and one of the largest and most-visited presidential estates and museums in the country.
Featuring more than 30 historic, plantation-style buildings and 1,120 acres of gardens, walking trails, and three event venues, it’s one of the best places in middle Tennessee for families and kids to get outside while also learning about America’s amazing and complicated past. Hermitage is located minutes from Nashville as well as the Gaylord Opryland Resort so it’s a short jaunt from downtown for an extraordinary historical and architectural experience.
In addition to Hermitage, Belle Meade Historic Site And Winery is the best place in the Nashville area to learn about Tennessee’s history and get outside while also getting a taste of true Southern Hospitality in a historic and architectural sanctuary.
Once one of the largest private estates in Nashville covering over 5400 acres, visitors today can take two historic tours, explore the estate’s remaining 30 acres on trails, visit the winery and restaurant which serves up authentic Southern cuisine and enjoy special events like Food and Wine Pairings, Bourbon Experiences, and Segway Tours.
The Tennessee Performing Arts Center, or TPAC, is the hub of Nashville’s cultural scene taking up an entire block downtown across the street from the Tennessee State Capitol building, and a can’t-miss venue for arts and performance lovers coming into town.
TPAC regularly hosts some of the most popular Broadway musicals and operas in the country, like Hamilton, Rent, and La Boheme, while also showcasing comedy nights, drama, and onstage cabaret performances. For a classy night out on the town in Music City, it all starts here.
For anyone who loves sports, the best place to visit in downtown Nashville is the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, which celebrates the hundreds of professional, collegiate, Olympic, and other trophy-winning athletes who have come out of Tennessee—like NFL quarterbacks Peyton and Eli Manning.
Located in the Bridgestone Arena complex where the Nashville Predators play, visitors can learn about the Volunteer State’s most famous athletes, dress up in jerseys and pads for some photo ops, and then head over to Broadway for a little honky tonk.
The Nashville Symphony has been a fixture of Music City since 1946 and is one of the most prolific recording orchestras in America, though it doesn’t get the same famous billing worldwide as Broadway’s honky tonks.
Built in 2006, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center which is the orchestra’s home is considered one of the world’s finest acoustical venues, and in addition to its classic performances presents a wide variety of pop, jazz, country, and family shows for tastes of all types and crowds of all ages. So, if you’re ever feeling like you’ve had too much honky tonk while you’re in Nashville, this is the place to open your musical senses back up.
Nashville’s recently become known for its world-class and relentlessly creative culinary scene and no venue represents that fusion with Music City’s reputation for fun than Pinewood Social.
The industrial-chic venue is a part coffee shop and work-from-home space during the day and part trendy restaurant and craft cocktail bar at night Pinewood Social, and since it opened has become one of Nashville’s premier places to see and to be seen. It’s also got six bowling lanes reclaimed from an old Bowl O’ Rama and two 4-deep wading pools next to an Airstream bar so you’ll like to come here and stay all day (and night).
The Escape Game in downtown Nashville has become one of the city’s hottest new things for friends, families, and coworkers to do and it’s just as much of an adventure for visitors coming into town to add a little adrenaline to their trip.
Featuring 11 different escape room themes like Prison Break, Forbidden Treasure, or The Heist, visitors participate in an immersive, 60-minute, real-life adventure game that will force you to solve puzzles, uncover clues, and crack codes to escape the room. If you’re looking for the place where Music City meets the metaverse this is definitely it.
Centennial Park is Nashville’s largest park located next to up-and-coming Midtown and Vanderbilt University. At 132 acres, it’s home to the iconic Parthenon (see below), walking trails, Lake Watauga, historic monuments, an arts and activity center, a band pavilion, a dog park, and sand volleyball courts, while also hosting regular events, exhibits, and festivals.
If you’re looking to get outside, clear your head, and breathe some fresh Southern air during your visit to Nashville just a short Uber ride from downtown, this oasis of calm and green within the sea of live music and honky tonk venues will restore your soul.
Located within Centennial Park, Nashville’s Parthenon is the world’s only full-scale reproduction of the famous Greek temple in Athens and one of the architectural wonders of Music City.
Legend has it that its original builders liked the idea of Nashville being called the “Athens of the South” because of its many institutions of higher learning so they figured they’d pay homage to the place where Western intellectual traditions began. Today, the Parthenon houses Nashville’s city art museum along with the Athena Parthenos, the tallest indoor sculpture in the Western world at 42’. Make sure your phone battery is charged before you head here: you’ll be taking a lot of photos.
If Tennessee State Prison looks like something out of a movie with its Medieval-style architecture and spiked towers, it’s because it is. The Green Mile starring Tom Hanks was filmed here along with several other famous films.
Today, the prison is empty and visitors can’t go inside. But it’s definitely worth a drive-by to take in its imposing presence, think about the stripe-suited prisoners who toiled away for years here doing manual labor and snap a few photos for your travelogue. There’s a good chance you’ll never see another prison like this again—especially one with such a distinguished Hollywood pedigree.
Crowning one of Nashville’s tallest peaks 20 minutes south of downtown, Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory offers park-like grounds, distinctive architecture, and amazing views of the landscape surrounding Radnor Lake State Park, making it one of the best places for nature lovers the chance to experience Middle Tennessee’s outdoors without much of a drive.
Visitors can participate in dozens of different educational, social, and celestial events like Telescope Nights, Meet The Astronomer Evenings, and the Bluebird On The Mountain concert series.
Here at AvantStay, we take a balanced approach to optimizing vacation rental income. It’s both an art and a science! Through a combination of our best-in-class care, streamlined back-end operations, technology, and our elevated hospitality brand reputation, AvantStay is able to outperform any other vacation rental management company and make you top dollar. Keep reading to find out how our unique revenue management strategy and exclusive revenue drivers can maximize your vacation rental income!
Vacation rental revenue management
Our approach to vacation rental revenue management begins with a firm understanding of each market. Unlike traditional management companies that use simple on and off-season pricing, we use 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.
We then examine the characteristics of each home (proximity to waterfront/ski slope, views, amenities, condition of the home, etc.) and map it against performance data of comparable homes in our portfolio and market reports we receive from AirDNA and other industry sources. This allows us to set thoughtful base rates for each season that we can adjust as the market changes. Our prices also shift over time based on occupancy and proximity to the check-in.
We understand the need for data-driven insights, but don’t lose sight of the human component that is so critical in the ever-evolving vacation rental space. Our team of dedicated pricing and revenue management specialists review each asset in our portfolio on a weekly basis to ensure each home is priced to book.
In addition to our proprietary pricing model, our in-house Listings & Distribution team has cultivated strong relationships with leading online travel agencies, which allows us to enhance your property’s listing performance against market competitors. Our team of skilled copywriters, photographers, and SEO experts will manage your inventory across 60+ diversified platforms specifically curated for your home in order to maximize views, bookings, positive reviews, and revenue.
Revenue drivers
When you partner with AvantStay, you also get access to our exclusive revenue drivers that create an elevated hospitality experience and allow us to charge higher ADRs. These features create an exceptional guest experience and keep your home in pristine condition—driving more bookings, positive reviews, and maximized vacation rental income.
Value-add interior design upgrades
Only AvantStay homeowners receive access to our in-house award-winning interior design services. Our professional Design and Photography teams elevate homes in as little as nine days, instantly increasing your home’s equity and maximizing your ROI. We purchase high-quality, durable furniture and new amenities, and we take care of the professional photo shoot—for free!
Premium upgrades and experiences
AvantStay guests have access to 24/7 live support via SMS, email, or phone, and we troubleshoot every issue to ensure they are well-cared for so homeowners can sit back and relax without any interruptions. By resolving 90% of guest issues on the first call, we receive higher ratings and better guest satisfaction.
We also take care of stocking the home with guest-ready supplies and provide personalized, thoughtful welcome packages ahead of every stay. Guests also get full access to in-app upgrades and experiences so they can book a private chef, schedule in-home massages, request fridge stocking, schedule mid-stay cleans, and more—all just a click away.
Best-in-class home care
AvantStay has teams dedicated to field operations that manage utilities, services, maintenance, and housekeeping on our owners’ behalf. In addition, AvantStay homeowners receive unmatched personalized service through a dedicated account manager who will quickly assist with any inquiries. You can also rest assured that our Compliance team keeps a constant pulse on the ever-evolving short-term rental regulatory requirements across the country so you’re up to speed and always operating with the correct permits.
Smart home technology
At AvantStay, we equip every home with our complimentary smart technology package which includes noise monitors, video doorbells, occupancy detectors, and keyless entry locks. Our monitoring and prevention technology is integrated into our operational dashboard, giving our Guest Experience team 24/7 real-time insights at each property. This keeps your home safe (and your neighbors happy!).
Maximize your vacation rental income with AvantStay
Competitively pricing a vacation rental and staying on top of seasonal changes requires a lot of planning and strategizing. Why not partner with an experienced vacation rental manager who can take care of revenue management to maximize your vacation rental income?
AvantStay offers end-to-end, flexible 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.
No photograph will ever do a Sonoran desert sunset justice. It’s one of those things you have to experience in person. In Scottsdale, appreciate the rich spectrum of fiery corals, vibrant pinks, and deep purples reflected across the sandy Arizona landscape. And don’t experience it alone. Gather your loved ones – the more the merrier – and delight in all the things to do Scottsdale offers.
Scottsdale’s picturesque appeal extends beyond its natural landscapes. Between the rustic remnants of the Wild West and the city’s storied architectural legacy, you’re never at a loss for gorgeous scenery. There’s a reason Frank Lloyd Wright found Scottsdale so captivating.
Speaking of scenery, Scottsdale’s art scene is thriving. Make sure to hit up the Historic Art District, visit the galleries, and soak up the city’s vibrant culture.
Sure, there’s no shortage of great barbecue pits, Tex-Mex joints, and taquerias. And they are certainly satisfied. But Scottsdale offers a sophisticated, upscale dining scene as well, along with elegant cocktail lounges and an exciting club scene.
Or you can just relax in one of the city’s many spas. There’s no wrong way to enjoy Scottsdale. The only mistake is not visiting at all.
Old West hangouts
1. Scottsdale’s Museum of the West is considered an Old Town gem. Its mission is to immerse guests in the unique story of the Greater American Western region, highlighting the past and how it’s shaped our future. Considered the nation’s “Best Western Museum” by True West Magazine, this non-profit space showcases fine art, rare historic artifacts, and cultural treasures.
2. Channel your inner cowboy at the family-owned MacDonald’s Ranch. Explore almost 3,000 acres of land on a trail ride by horse, stagecoach, or hay wagon, and then saddle up for a cowboy cookout.
3. The renowned Heard Museum is known for its exceptional Native American art and culture, both contemporary and historical. Every February, the Heard hosts the annual World Championship Hoop Dance Competition. Every March, they host the Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market.
4. Scottsdale’s Country Western bars are perfect for visitors who enjoy live music and a colorful ambiance. Old Town’s Rusty Spur Saloon is filled with cowboy memorabilia and a few barstools, perfect for having a laugh with your friends. The Handlebar J Restaurant & Saloon has live music, headlining the famous Herndon Brothers Band Wednesday through Sunday. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West is as legendary as the architect himself.
5. The natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert inspired him to settle down here each winter season, which led him to eventually open an architectural school, Taliesin West. Today, daily tours are available for those who’d like to peek inside Wright’s ingenious designs and innate ability to seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces.
Best of the West dining
6.Bryan’s Black Mountain Barbecue is sure to satisfy a cowboy-sized hunger. The Food Network named Bryan’s with the best ribs in Arizona. More specialties at this hotspot in nearby Cave Creek include beef brisket and barbecue chicken. A vegetarian favorite is a plate of “pulled” squash, and Bryan’s famous Baked Potato Salad is highly recommended.
7.Hand Cut Chop House is an Old Town chop house known for its fully grass-fed and grass-finished beef. For dessert, the house-made warm butter cake served with roasted peaches, caramel sauce, and sweet cream ice cream is drool-worthy.
8. Before dinner at LON’s at the Hermosa Inn, be sure to stop by the adjacent Last Drop bar to grab a cocktail. When you’re ready, head over to LON’s for some Arizona cuisine prepared with fresh, local ingredients by Chef Jeremy Pacheco.
9. Scottsdale’s favorite, Fat Ox, is sure to whet your appetite. Scottsdale’s Chef Matt Carter is known for his modern riffs on classic Italian dishes such as a 25-layer lasagna. For dessert, you’ll be hard-pressed to decide between the Meyer Lemon Tart or Gianduja Frangelico Tiramisu.
10. Post-stroll downtown, Sel is a worthy stop for fine dining. Chef Branden Levine serves cuisine that’s described as progressive contemporary American, serving a la carte or four-course, prix fixe meals.
11. Reserve a table at Old Town Tortilla Factory for a seat on the patio under the shade of 100-year-old pecan trees. You’ll want to arrive hungry to devour plates of Southwestern cuisine. Try a red chile pork chop with house-made ancho raspberry sauce, or pollo margarita chicken with cheese and roasted pepper stuffing topped with citrus tequila sauce.
12. South of Old Town, Los Sombreros is all about authenticity, beginning with its cantina-style aesthetic. Its rustic cuisine includes classic homemade guacamole, crab enchiladas, mole poblano, and slow-roasted pork carnitas. When the server asks about dessert, be sure to say yes to the decadent Mexican chocolate pie.
13. At the helm of House Brasserie, Chef Brandon Jedd showcases his cutting-edge, modern American cuisine plates of House Carolina BBQ, Jerk Tomahawk Pork Chops, and Linz Umami Filet Mignon. Dine indoors in elegance, or more casually on the shaded, outdoor patio.
14.Elements restaurant at Sanctuary Resort on Camelback Mountain offers spectacular sunset views from its perch on the mountain. Food Network star, Chef Beau MacMillan, puts his best menu forward. The farm-fresh American cuisine incorporates sustainable seafood, hormone-free meats, and locally sourced organic produce.
15. Vegetarians will rejoice at FnB Restaurant in Old Town, with a wide range of unique, veggie-based menu offerings, among non-vegetarian options. James Beard Award winner Chef Charleen Badman leads the charge with a seasonal menu of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and carefully curated artisan meats and cheeses. There’s also a pairing option with the Arizona wine program.
16. If you’re in the mood for modern Latin cuisine, you’ll want to take time to dine at The Mission, located in Old Town. Chef Matt Carter has crafted a 12-ingredient tableside guacamole and menu items that include roasted pork shoulder tacos and Linz bone-in ribeye with a sherry glaze.
Courtesy of The Mission’s Facebook
17.Virtú Honest Craft is located in Old Town’s Bespoke Inn. It’s the place for contemporary Mediterranean cuisine crafted by Chef Gio Osso. Order the hazelnut-crusted scallops and you won’t be disappointed. Or try the Moroccan-spiced lamb with smashed chickpeas and minted eggplant for a truly Mediterranean option.
18.Ocean 44 sources its seafood from around the world. This upscale, contemporary restaurant focuses on its relaxed space and menu of specialties such as New Bedford scallops, Alaskan king crab, and Wagyu filets.
19. If you’re craving pizza and beer, Craft 64 is the place to go. With more than 30 local beers on tap – and a few house brews – you’ll want to hang out here while you munch on homemade mozzarella and thin-crust, wood-fired pizza.
20. Carnivores will want to take a seat at Maple & Ash to bite into the Butcher’s Reserve 35-Day Dry-Aged Eisenhower, a 40-ounce porterhouse cooked to perfection directly on the coals. If you’re one of those diners who embraces the chef’s recommendation, go ahead and order the “I Don’t Give a F*@K” and leave it to the professionals to serve up your surprise dish.
21. In Paradise Valley, El Chorro’s classic menu options are as comforting as the scenery between Camelback and Mummy mountains – especially at sunset. Locals love the grilled filet mignon and old-fashioned broaster fried chicken plates. Try to resist an order of sticky buns. Good luck!
22.Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen inside the Andaz offers a side of Camelback Mountain views with every order. Recommended plates include the Scallop Risotto with blackberry coulis or the Faroe Island Salmon with charred leeks and sweet corn puree.
Where to get your cardio
23. Get your heart pumping and hike Pinnacle Peak Summit Trail in the Sonoran Desert. This iconic north Scottsdale peak offers an exciting hike with steep switchbacks to the summit. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Scottsdale’s iconic, saguaro-studded landscape and massive granite rock formations. Ranked moderately difficult, the trail is approximately 3.5 miles round trip with a cumulative elevation gain of 1,300 feet.
24. The free Scottsdale ArtWalk has been a Scottsdale tradition for more than 45 years. Special exhibits, artist receptions, and live entertainment are offered from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Thursday. For artistic explorations during the day, download the free Public Art Walking Tour. With the tour, spend an hour strolling Old Town discovering 10 beautiful works of art.
25. The urban McDowell Sonoran Preserve has more than 225 miles of scenic shared-use trails in the McDowell Mountain foothills. One of the Preserve’s seven trailheads, The Gateway, leads to plenty of paths, some of which are even ADA accessible (Bajada Nature Trail). For a more challenging trail, head to Windgate Pass Trail.
26. Bring your step tracker to Scottsdale’s Fashion Square, where you’re sure to log several miles of shopping, with a bit of dining in the mix for much-needed fuel. Shops include A|X Armani Exchange, Anthropologie, Beach Bunny Swimwear, the Apple Store, and more. Enjoy happy hour options at Kona Grill (sushi and sake) and Nobu, two great spots for some upscale dining, as well as Francine, which offers more French Mediterranean on its menu.
Things to do in Scottsdale for golfers
27. Desert Golf awaits, and there are approximately 200 area courses in Scottsdale. Start at the high-caliber TPC Scottsdale and enjoy some classic rock music on the driving range.
28. Tee off on either of the Grayhawk par-72 courses. The Talon course may require some prior desert golfing experience, but the Raptor course is more traditional.
29.Troon North’s Pinnacle and Monument courses were designed by British Open Champion Tom Weiskopf. Tee up here for stunning views and challenging courses.
30. Re-designed from 27 to 18 holes by local architect Phil Smith, The Phoenician Golf Course is the newest in the area.
31. Want to play better golf? Allow the experts at Cool Clubs to analyze your swing characteristics and custom-fit you to a new set of high-quality clubs. Amateurs and advanced golfers alike are welcome.
Best spots for sightseeing and sips
32. Old Town Scottsdale is a walkable adventure to peruse specialty boutiques, art galleries, an arts district, and exhibitions at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA). Or, sip your way along the Scottsdale Wine or Ale trail before working up an appetite for dinner.
33. Once you’ve built up a thirst, AZ88 is the place to stop for a filled-to-the-rim martini (or two!) on the patio that overlooks Scottsdale Civic Center Park. Contemporary art displays provide unique surrounding visuals at this watering hole and present the perfect opportunity for people-watching.
34. The Scottsdale ArtWalk on downtown’s main street happens every Thursday evening from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., with artist receptions and live entertainment. You can also download the walking tour and stroll for an hour or so to discover 10 works of art in the area on your own time.
35. At the Musical Instrument Museum, you’ll discover unique instruments and music from around the world. High-tech headphones, multimedia displays, and a hands-on Experience Gallery to play guitars, gongs, and gamelans are sure to get you jazzed.
36. Enjoy an air balloon ride to experience the Sonoran desert landscape at sunrise. Once landed, your basket buddies will toast to your first flight with a flute of champagne. Arizona Balloon Safaris in nearby Cave Creek is one of several options to book a flight.
37.Desert Botanical Garden in nearby Phoenix is worth the time to immerse yourself in the 50,000-plus desert flora among 140 acres. Once you’ve walked around a bit, take a seat at Gertrude’s, the garden restaurant on the property, to grab a bite to eat.
38. All things are aflutter at Butterfly Wonderland, a rainforest experience set in a tropical paradise with fluttering butterflies from all over the world.
39. Take a day trip to one of the world’s most amazing natural wonders, the Grand Canyon. Located north of Scottsdale, it’ll take you just over three hours to drive there.
40. Get in the fast lane at Octane Raceway with high-speed karts awaiting you in the driver’s seat. If you love virtual reality, you’ll want to stop at the Velocity VR arena. More fun includes mini-bowling and a full arcade to connect with your inner pinball wizard.
41. The Scottsdale Civic Center Mall is an urban oasis that offers the best people-watching among its almost three acres of picturesque public space. You may love this spot as much as Robert Indiana, the artist who built a L-O-V-E sculpture in the park. Museums, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance.
Cultural activities in Scottsdale
42. The late Italian architect Paolo Soleri created an art studio/architectural experiment with Cosanti. Mobiles made of earth-formed concrete in dome shapes seem to defy gravity, and they provide an enchanting backdrop for Soleri’s bronze wind bells that are transformed into modern art. You can actually watch the bronze pour if you call ahead for pour times.
43. The downloadable Scottsdale Architecture Driving Tour is a laid-back way to explore the Sonoran Desert’s rugged mountains, lush arroyos, and desert flora. You’ll see what inspired world-renowned architects to create nearly 40 masterpieces you’ll spot on this tour.
44. The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a must-stop for old railway train aficionados. Entrance to the Railway Museum is free with park admission, and worth the stop to view the various memorabilia from the historic Peoria Depot, the Roald Amundsen Pullman Car, and more.
45. The OdySea Aquarium Voyager is new to this aquarium and offers complimentary admission to aquarium ticket holders. Take a seat in the stadium theatre with 46-foot viewing windows to watch the world’s only revolving aquarium experience.
46. Save an evening to catch a performance at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, which offers traditional and contemporary arts through live performances from artists and speakers who create expressions of cultural heritage and diversity of thought.
Sonoran spa time
47.Spa Avania, located inside the spacious Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch, is a comforting, quiet spot to heal, restore, and replenish yourself. The unique Desert Essence Body Wrap uses cactus flower-infused materials to rejuvenate your skin (minus the needles, of course). Apparently, trehalose, a natural sugar bacteria found inside a cactus plant, hydrates and holds onto the moisture in your body.
48. The lakeside Inspire Day Spa is the perfect spot for relaxing massage services for men and women. The effects of Margarete add to the successful results of their signature Inspire Massage, the most popular on the menu.
49. Inspire Day Spa’s sister property, New Serenity Spa was voted the number-one spa in Scottsdale by USA Today. No matter which service you book, you’ll definitely leave with smoother, healthier-looking skin.
Whether you’re looking to relax or get your adrenaline pumping, Scottsdale is filled with tons of opportunities for both. Enjoy all that the land has to offer for nourishing your body from the inside out. Escape to this desert paradise to heal, explore, and discover new things! Book one of AvantStay’s Scottsdale properties to experience this land yourself.
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!
Welcome to Whidbey Island, a captivating destination nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. This idyllic island, located in Washington State, is a haven for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful escape. With its pristine beaches, lush forests, and charming coastal towns, Whidbey Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From the iconic Deception Pass State Park to the quaint streets of Coupeville Historic Waterfront, this island is brimming with opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and exploration. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the enchantment of Whidbey Island, where breathtaking vistas and unforgettable experiences await at every turn.
And when it comes to accommodations, don’t forget that AvantStay vacation homes provide the perfect retreat for an exceptional stay on the island, especially when traveling with groups.
1. Explore Deception Pass State Park
Prepare to be awestruck by the beauty of Deception Pass State Park. Lace up your hiking boots and venture along the park’s trails, leading you through lush forests and offering breathtaking views of the swirling waters below. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife encounters and don’t forget to capture some Insta-worthy photos.
Source: Washington is For Adventure
2. Visit Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve
Immerse yourself in history as you step foot in Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve. Wander through time as you stroll past historic farmhouses and gaze upon sweeping vistas that haven’t changed much since settlers arrived. The reserve’s walking and biking trails are a delightful way to soak up the scenic beauty of this preserved treasure.
3. Go whale watching
Calling all nature enthusiasts! Embark on a whale watching adventure and witness the grace and grandeur of these majestic creatures. Local tour operators provide fantastic opportunities to spot whales, so be prepared for an awe-inspiring experience. Keep your camera ready, as you never know when a tail flip or a breach will leave you speechless.
Source: Whidbey News-Times
4. Enjoy water sports at Penn Cove
For those seeking a splash of adventure, Penn Cove is your playground. Grab a kayak or a paddleboard and glide across the tranquil waters, taking in the picturesque surroundings. If you’re up for a tasty challenge, try your hand at mussel and clam digging – a fun and rewarding experience for seafood lovers.
5. Tour Fort Casey State Park
History buffs, unite! Fort Casey State Park offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved fort and impressive artillery. Explore the fort’s passages, climb up to the lookout points, and feel like a time traveler as you imagine life as a soldier stationed here. Pack a picnic and savor a meal with panoramic views as your backdrop.
Source: Alan Majchrowicz Photography
6. Visit Coupeville Historic Waterfront
Step into a storybook as you wander through the charming streets of Coupeville Historic Waterfront. Browse through unique shops, admire local art galleries, and indulge in delicious fare at the waterfront restaurants. The rich history and undeniable charm of this quaint town will leave you spellbound.
7. Attend the Whidbey Island Center for the Arts
Let your cultural senses thrive at the Whidbey Island Center for the Arts. Catch a captivating theater performance, sway to the rhythm of live concerts, or lose yourself in the beauty of art exhibits. This vibrant hub showcases the immense talent and creativity that thrives on the island.
Source: Coupeville Chamber of Commerce
8. Explore the Greenbank Farm
Escape to a world of artistic inspiration and natural beauty at the Greenbank Farm. Meander through art galleries, discover unique shops, and recharge with a cup of coffee or a tasty treat at one of the charming cafes. The open spaces invite you to spread out a picnic blanket and revel in the tranquility of this idyllic setting.
9. Taste Local Brews at Penn Cove Brewing Company
Indulge in the craft beer scene on Whidbey Island by visiting Penn Cove Brewing Company. Located in Coupeville, this local brewery offers a range of delicious and unique brews crafted with care. Sample their selection of handcrafted beers, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, and enjoy the inviting atmosphere of their taproom. Engage with the friendly staff and fellow beer enthusiasts while savoring the flavors of Whidbey Island in a pint glass.
Source: Whidbey News-Times
10. Sample fresh seafood
Whidbey Island is a haven for seafood lovers, and you don’t want to miss the chance to delight your taste buds. From succulent Dungeness crab to buttery scallops, the island’s restaurants serve up a variety of mouthwatering dishes that showcase the bounty of the sea. So, dive in and treat yourself to a culinary adventure.
11. Discover the Bayview Farmers Market
Support local artisans, farmers, and craftsmen at the Bayview Farmers Market. Stroll through the bustling market and peruse the vibrant displays of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal products. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, live music, and perhaps even find the perfect souvenir to take home.
Source: South Whidbey Record
12. Explore Langley Village
Prepare for a shopping spree in the charming village of Langley. This idyllic town is a treasure trove of boutique stores, antique shops, and unique finds. Whether you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry or a vintage collectible, Langley will captivate you with its eclectic offerings.
13. Unwind at Double Bluff Beach
Feel the sand between your toes and the gentle breeze in your hair at Double Bluff Beach. This serene beach is a paradise for relaxation and rejuvenation. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, explore the tidal pools, or simply bask in the tranquility of the stunning coastal scenery.
Source: Must Hike Must Eat
14. Indulge in a spa day
Pamper yourself with a day of blissful relaxation at one of Whidbey Island’s wellness centers. Treat your body and mind to a massage, rejuvenating facial, or holistic treatment. Let the stress melt away as skilled professionals work their magic, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
15. Visit the Pacific Northwest Art School
Unlock your inner artist at the Pacific Northwest Art School. Take part in art classes taught by talented instructors, or marvel at the inspiring exhibitions that grace the gallery walls. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner with a passion for creativity, this artistic sanctuary will ignite your imagination.
Source: Pacific Northwest Art School
16. Discover the Island County Historical Museum
Delve into the captivating history and culture of Whidbey Island at the Island County Historical Museum. Engage with exhibits that showcase the island’s fascinating past, from its Native American heritage to its naval history. Gain a deeper understanding of the island’s roots and the people who have shaped its identity.
17. Play golf at one of the island’s golf courses
Calling all golf enthusiasts! Whidbey Island offers a golfer’s paradise with its scenic and well-maintained golf courses. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, these courses provide an opportunity to perfect your swing while immersing yourself in the island’s natural splendor.
Useless Bay Golf & Country Club is located in Langley and offers an exceptional golfing experience. This 18-hole course boasts stunning views of the Puget Sound, lush fairways, and challenging greens. Tee off surrounded by majestic evergreens, navigate strategically placed hazards, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this picturesque course.
Additionally, Whidbey Golf Club in Oak Harbor is another gem for golf enthusiasts. This scenic 18-hole course combines challenging holes with breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound. With its well-manicured fairways, pristine greens, and friendly atmosphere, Whidbey Golf Club is a delightful destination for golfers of all levels.
So, grab your clubs, embrace the natural beauty of Whidbey Island, and enjoy a memorable round of golf on these stunning courses. Whether you’re seeking a friendly game or a competitive challenge, these golfing destinations will provide an unforgettable experience in a serene setting.
Source: Useless Bay Golf & Country Club
18. Go birdwatching
Calling all bird lovers! Whidbey Island is a haven for avian enthusiasts, with its diverse habitats attracting a wide variety of bird species. Whidbey Island has two fantastic locations that should be on your radar.
Start your birdwatching adventure at Crockett Lake Preserve, near Coupeville. This expansive 357-acre preserve boasts a diverse range of habitats, including marshes, wetlands, and forests, attracting a wide variety of bird species. As you explore the trails and boardwalks, keep your eyes peeled for magnificent bald eagles, vibrant waterfowl, and migratory shorebirds.
Another excellent spot is Ebey’s Landing, renowned for its historical significance but also offering great birdwatching opportunities. The combination of farmlands, open prairies, and coastal areas creates an ideal habitat for various bird species. Take a leisurely stroll along the bluff trail and you might catch a glimpse of peregrine falcons, graceful great blue herons, or fascinating shorebirds. Don’t forget your binoculars as you immerse yourself in the beauty of Whidbey Island’s avian residents.
Whidbey Island truly offers a paradise of experiences for every type of traveler. From breathtaking natural landscapes to intriguing historical sites, there’s something for everyone on this enchanting island.
And when it comes to accommodations, AvantStay vacation homes provide the perfect base for your adventures, especially when traveling with groups. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to create unforgettable memories on Whidbey Island. The adventure awaits!
In today’s world of remote and distributed work, corporate retreats have been redefined as a powerful way to support employees and company culture. Retreats can be a fantastic opportunity for your employees to escape work for a bit while strengthening relationships, boosting productivity, and refreshing workplace morale.
These excursions can break up the monotony of the day-to-day grind and can be a respite from the standard cycle of meetings, Zoom calls, productivity reviews, and workplace projects.
It’s crucial to put some time and thought into the planning process to ensure that you curate a positive environment. Follow our 8-step guide to plan the best possible retreat for your company.
How to plan a corporate retreat that your team will love
Let’s talk about some decisions you need to make before you get into the 8-step planning process. These things will help you narrow down what you’re looking for, so you can plan accordingly.
Define your company goals
The first step in the retreat planning process is figuring out why you’re doing it. What’s the purpose of the retreat? Many businesses plan a company retreat primarily as an opportunity to bring team members together on a fun getaway to reflect on the year’s performance, company culture, and the overall work environment.
But it doesn’t have to be all about work. These retreats also offer an incredible opportunity for team bonding and relaxation for everyone on the team. If your office sometimes feels like a collection of individuals rather than a united front working together toward a shared purpose, some carefully chosen activities can help them bond.
Sure, colleagues must be productive and achieve the company’s work-oriented goals. But an enjoyable work environment is a big part of that, and retreats are a great way to help work toward that more personal goal.
One goal of a company retreat is to help employees learn about each other’s personalities and how they work. Everyone is different – some people work better alone, while others are more productive in teams. Some people like to work in silence, while others prefer to listen to music or brainstorm out loud. Some people enjoy sitting at a desk, while others work better while standing or moving.
Retreats provide a unique opportunity for employees to have fun while learning about each other’s personalities and work styles. This insight can help you to curate a more enjoyable (and more productive) workplace when you get home.
Consider the time of year and season
Different locations and styles of retreats can be great at varying times of the year, so you’ll want to consider this when planning your next company retreat.
First, consider the weather. If you want an outdoor-oriented retreat, you’ll need nice weather. You probably don’t want to go to the desert in the summer or the mountains in the winter if you’re hoping to do lots of hiking.
But if you’re planning on skiing or snowball fights, a winter trip to the mountains could be great! For example, you might consider Cherry Ridge in Breckenridge or Canopy in Park City. Or the desert in the summer could be great if you’re hoping to have a lot of pool days or lake days. Try buying out the Monkey Tree in Palm Springs for a pool all to yourself, or book Buena Vista Estate in Coachella Valley for a private pool AND a private lake. Just make sure to provide a detailed list to your employees of what they need to bring to prepare for the weather.
Not only do you want the weather to cooperate with your plans, but you also want to look at how your venue’s pricing fluctuates throughout the year. For example, a mountain resort will likely cost more during winter because everyone wants to go skiing or snowboarding.
But if you’re more interested in hiking and other mild-weather activities, you could consider going during a different time of year. You’d get the weather you’re looking for, and you’d probably get a cheaper rate.
Look into a few different potential retreat locations and see which one works best for what you have planned.
Give your team a save-the-date with sufficient time to plan
While your company retreat can provide an incredible opportunity to get away, you still want to ensure that it doesn’t interfere with too many people’s busy personal schedules. Most people have lives and responsibilities outside the office that can be tricky to work around.
Don’t spring the news on your team at the last minute. Ensure that you let them know you’re planning a retreat with a good amount of advanced notice, and let everyone know of any costs they may need to budget for.
That means you’ll need to start planning even sooner. It’s usually a good idea to begin the planning process for a company retreat anywhere from six months to a year in advance, depending on the group size. That will make it easier for you to find lodging and venues that can accommodate the number of people you’re bringing and will take the stress off of you as the retreat gets closer.
8 steps to follow when planning a corporate retreat
Now that you have a general idea of what you want your retreat to look like, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Follow these eight steps to plan the company retreat of your dreams:
1. Find and book the venue
Choosing the right venue can make or break your team retreat. These trips are typically designed as something of an escape from the usual workspace, so make sure you’re looking for venues that will provide a fun and unique experience for the entire team.
But the right venue will look different for different teams. With a small group, you could probably book a group home or another short-term rental. If you have a large group, you may want to consider a boutique hotel or resort as accommodation.
Whatever you choose, make sure you’ll be able to plan activities that take place outside of a conference room – remember, you’re trying to avoid the mundane corporate environment!
2. Book lodging for the offsite
Depending on which venue you choose, you may need to provide offsite lodging for your team. If that’s the case, you’ll want to ensure the lodging isn’t too far away. If your employees are driving to the retreat and have their cars, you may have some wiggle room. But if they’re taking a bus or flying to the retreat, make sure it’s going to be easy for them to get from their room to the venue each day.
If you want your team to have a truly seamless experience, AvantStay offers the opportunity to book out an entire hotel, an entire neighborhood of villas, condos & homes within walking distance of each other, or even take over a whole estate together. While it’s not necessary, it can be a nice touch to put together some sort of welcome basket for each person. Leave them on the beds for them to find when they check in. You can include things like planners, copies of the retreat agenda, water bottles, or other company-branded swag (like t-shirts, pins, totes, backpacks, or temporary tattoos), and some self-care items like face masks or snacks.
3. Secure transportation
Your employees must be able to safely get to and from the retreat, and then to and from their rooms once they get there.
If your retreat is close to home, decide if you want employees to drive themselves or if you want to rent a shuttle or a bus to take everyone there and back together. If you’re choosing the shuttle route, ensure your employees won’t need their vehicles while on the retreat. If your employees will be driving there, ensure there are ample parking spots.
If you’re traveling further away for the retreat, make sure you take care of all the flights and subsequent rental cars, Uber rides, or shuttle services. You don’t want your employees to get stressed about transportation during the retreat. The more you plan for a smooth ride, the easier it will be for everyone in the long run.
4. Manage food and catering if needed
One of the best parts of vacation is the food– it should be no different on a corporate retreat. Shared meals can offer a great bonding experience, so plan what food options to offer your team.
Will there be self-serve options? Large catered meals? Maybe you could even consider cooking classes as a team-building experience that ends in a great meal or ask AvantStay’s retreat coordinator to book you a private chef for a delicious feast The options are endless, just make sure you plan ahead.
Some hotels and venues have food and drink options available for large groups – the bigger the group, the cheaper the rates typically are. That can be a great option, but realize that people probably won’t want to have every meal on-site. You may want to consider branching out to offsite restaurants for a meal or two as well. If you need recommendations, AvantStay’s retreat coordinators are ready to help you find and book the best dining in the area for your team.
5. Coordinate and plan team-building activities
These are essential retreat activities, but they can either be really fun or cheesy. Make sure you think long and hard about the team-building activities you plan and think through what sounds like fun.
Some popular options you can incorporate at any venue include icebreakers that allow people to get to know their colleagues better and scavenger hunts that let them have some fun and explore the retreat location. You want your employees to get to know each other’s personalities better and cultivate better working relationships.
Then depending on the venue, there are plenty of other fun team-building exercises you can plan to promote employee engagement. Wherever you are, try to think about ways to get out and enjoy some fresh air – beach days, hiking, skiing, etc.
When planning your retreat, make sure you incorporate a variety of activity styles to accommodate people’s preferences and comfort levels. Some activities can be more active (like hiking and yoga), while others could be more laid-back (like board games or crafts).
Include different options for people with varying physical needs and capabilities. If there’s a strenuous hike option, plan a shorter guided loop for those with different needs.
You could make personal sessions where everyone has the chance to share a bit about their lives outside of the workplace, and even offer people the opportunity to teach their colleagues about something they have a passion for. AvantStay retreat coordinators can help book activities like mixology classes, beach picnics, and more if you want someone else to take care of the planning!
Remember, team-building activities aren’t just about bringing your team closer together in a work environment. It’s about building relationships and helping people get to know their colleagues better. Ideally, your employees will leave the retreat feeling like they’ve developed friendships with their colleagues.
6. Organize work sessions
Retreats can be fun, but you’ll likely need to get some work done at some point. Check that the venue has everything you need, including comfortable work seating, WiFi, and meeting rooms. While working on a retreat doesn’t always sound appealing, it can be a fantastic opportunity for remote-work companies to have in-person brainstorming sessions, which are often more productive than over the phone. It can be hard to achieve a sense of teamwork in a remote team, so factoring in some working hours during the retreat may help.
7. Provide restaurant recommendations and activities in the area
Sure, the retreat is technically a work thing. But you must schedule some downtime for your employees as well. Make sure you not only allow for some free time but also provide some recommendations of things to do.
One way to do this is to create a pamphlet or information card waiting for each employee on their bed when they check-in. The card could list information about restaurants, activities, and other interesting locations in the area. Include some that are walkable, and some that may require a drive, depending on what they’re feeling up for.
8. Create a post-retreat survey
No matter how much thought you put into planning your retreat, you can never really know how well it’ll go. That’s why it’s always good to talk to your employees and get a feel for how much they enjoyed it. You can take their feedback and use it when planning your next corporate retreat.
While you may have good relationships with some employees, not everyone will feel comfortable voicing any questions or concerns they had in one-on-one chats. You’ll want to make sure you get as much honest feedback as you can.
Consider creating an anonymous post-retreat survey. That will allow people to be as honest as they want without fear of retribution.
But if you send out one of these surveys, just make sure the leadership team takes any concerns or suggestions into consideration when planning the next retreat. People will notice (and appreciate!) the change, but they’ll also notice if their concerns get ignored year after year.
Final thoughts
A company retreat is going to be as good as you make it. So make sure you put in the necessary work to plan a good one.
That idea can seem overwhelming, but if you follow the steps we outlined above, you can get it done in no time.
Remember that everyone is different, so a one-size-fits-all approach probably isn’t best. Consider who’s going on the retreat and build a flexible schedule with something included for everyone. Not everyone has to love every aspect of the trip, but you want everyone to enjoy at least some parts of it.
Lastly, as the person leading the retreat, remember to have fun. The planning process can be stressful, and by the time you’re going on the retreat, you’ve probably been thinking about it and worrying over the details for months. This trip is about having fun and building relationships– you don’t want to miss out on that.
Have fun and happy planning! Here’s to hoping your next retreat is a huge success!
In the world of travel, few experiences can match the sheer delight of being able to host your nearest and dearest under one roof. Whether it’s for a much-needed family reunion, a fantastic 50th birthday party, or an epic bachelorette, there’s something truly special about having an expansive vacation rental for your group. This is where our 8-bedroom vacation rentals come in—offering not just space, but the blueprint for hosting your ideal getaway.
Join us as we discover 8 of the best 8-bedroom vacation homes—complete with private pools, hot tubs, gorgeous yards, and plenty of space for everyone to spread out!
1. Ridge View – Smoky Mountains, TN
Come here for a stay with a gorgeous wooden pavilion, hot tub, and sprawling decks (yes, decks) for all your gathering needs. Inside, revel in the open living space, a sleek kitchen, and eight bedrooms, each with their very own bathroom! Just 15 minutes from Pigeon Forge and a short drive from Gatlinburg and Dollywood, Ridge View is your ultimate mountain escape.
2. River Rock – Breckenridge, CO
Introducing River Rock, your cozy group-friendly ski retreat nestled among the pine trees. Just a quick bus ride from Peak 8 and a short walk to Breckenridge’s Main Street, coming back to this welcoming haven is truly an ease (and delight). Enjoy the home’s stone-walled fireplace, spacious kitchen, game room/home theater, and multiple living areas for groups to spread out. After a day of adventure, unwind in the hot tub or sip a drink on the gazebo.
3. Destin Oasis – Destin, FL
Enjoy all the perks and space within this newly built Destin home, Destin Oasis, with a private pool, hot tub, game room, and a spacious outdoor living area. Inside, the open floor plan boasts a stylish living room with a large flat-screen TV, a beautifully appointed kitchen with modern appliances, and a generous dining space. To make things even better, beach gear rental credit is included for qualifying stays, making this the perfect stay for you and your XL crew!
4. La Barrique – Temecula, CA
Welcome to La Barrique, where luxury meets serenity in the heart of Temecula’s vineyards and mountains. This stunning property offers a range of activities, from picnics on the lawn to poolside ping pong, beach volleyball, and even poolside yoga. As the sun sets over the mountains, gather around the firepit for marshmallow roasting or soak in the hot tub with a glass of local wine.
5. Starlight Estate – Coachella Valley, CA
Hey bachelorette groups—we’re looking at you. Starlight Estate in Coachella Valleyboasts an exclusive indoor tennis court with air conditioning, ensuring endless fun regardless of the weather. When it’s time to cool off, a luxurious pool area with waterfalls and a jetted hot tub awaits. Dine with your “I Do Crew” with a view in the covered lounge area, sip cocktails at the bar and grilling area, or relax on the additional terrace. Let your crew’s desert adventure begin!
For even more vacation homes with private tennis courts, check out our blog here!
6. Bottlenose – Destin, FL
Discover Bottlenose, a serene 8-bedroom retreat just a short ten-minute stroll from Miramar Beach. This coastal haven offers an inviting backyard oasis with a pool, outdoor dining area, and a relaxing patio adorned with a hammock. Inside, you’ll find a tasteful sea-inspired design in the living area, dining space, and a well-appointed kitchen with a spacious island and barstool seating.
7. Smokey’s Paradise – Smoky Mountains, TN
This one’s for that family reunion we mentioned. Smokey’s Paradise (in the Smoky Mountains, of course) is a modern mansion with room for 22 guests. It offers family-fun features like an indoor pool, hot tub, and game room. The chef’s kitchen, equipped with double fridges and freezers, makes cooking a joy. Downstairs, the game room awaits with pool, shuffleboard, and foosball.
Ready to dive into vacation rentals with indoor pools? Check out our blog with more here!
8. Rendezvous – Destin, FL
Get ready for an incredible beach getaway at Rendezvous. This fabulous Destin beach house is all about style and comfort, perfect for large groups ISO sunny days and vacays. With coastal-inspired design in every room, you’ll find yourself in breezy spaces with comfy furnishings, soft linens, and that chic all-white look. Think mornings on the balcony, poolside days, game room fun, evenings in the hot tub, and catching the sunset from the rooftop with a cozy fire pit.
Experience the Best of Group Travel and Stay with AvantStay
If you’re searching for the perfect places to stay with a large group, our vacation rentals have just what you need. Spend the day indulging, then return to a peaceful home-away-from-home with all the amenities (and more) that you’re already used to. Comfortable bedrooms, spacious backyards with pools and spectacular views are just some of the things you’ll enjoy during your stay. We look forward to having you!
Want more tips for your next trip? See more of our blogs here:
Despite the recent pandemic, investing in short-term rentals is still a world of opportunity for people looking to generate passive income. According to AirDNA, short-term rentals listed full-time in 2021 earned their highest ever annual revenue at $56,000. This is 35% higher than at the start of the pandemic.
Although it’s been uncharted territory, the future of travel is looking up. 82% of families around the world are still planning to go on a trip sooner rather than later. Airbnb reported its most profitable quarter ever in Q3 2021, with a net income of $834 million.
With the right strategy, investing in short-term rental properties can be entirely rewarding. As with any investment opportunity or new business venture, there’s a lot of research to be done to better understand the industry and the market. Keep reading for our 10 expert tips for investing in short-term rentals.
Tip 1: Compare short-term rental location options
A large part of the success of your vacation rental venture depends on where your property is located. You might think that a secluded lake getaway is ideal for generating that additional income. However, it might be too far from local attractions and not a popular destination for travelers.
Research and track key metrics of potential markets like average daily rates, occupancy rates, and what other homes are selling for in the area.
Consider property appreciation statistics as well. Some properties can increase in value by as much as 25%, depending on what’s happening in the neighborhood and their amenities. This should also form part of your property location decision.
Tip 2: Know the demand for short-term rentals
Once you’ve identified or at least shortlisted some of your potential locations, the next step is to find out if there is a demand for short-term vacation rentals in the area.
Remember that vacation rental demand and long-term, or residential, rental demand are two very different things. For example, people looking for residential rentals might look for things like proximity to schools and hospitals. On the other hand, vacationers might look for proximity to local attractions or amenities included.
Did you know that there are 115,000 vacation rental companies worldwide? The demand for short-term rentals is definitely on the rise. AirDNA is predicting that investor interest will surge with demand rising, and expects a 15% increase in US listings in 2022. There is a demand; you just have to find your place in it.
Tip 3: Understand low-season and high-season fluctuations
Almost every vacation spot has low-season and high-season calendars. These are the times of the year when owners can expect higher numbers for a certain period of time. Less busy times of the year are referred to as low-season.
Not only does this affect your overall income projections, but you may need to be open to flexible pricing depending on the season.
There are markets, like Lake Tahoe, that generate steady income throughout the year with strong winter and summer seasons. Be sure to factor this in when choosing your location.
Tip 4: Have a solid business plan
Just like any new business venture, you should have a solid business plan for your short-term rental. You wouldn’t open a new restaurant without having a business plan. The same goes for investing in short-term rentals.
Your business plan doesn’t only have to include this property. Do you intend on owning more than one short-term rental property? How do you see your business growing in the short and long-term future?
Also, you need to figure out just how much of the business operations you’ll be doing yourself. How involved are you going to be? Will you hire someone to help you with marketing, or someone to take care of maintenance? What about helping with guests’ mid-stay requests? You might want to consider partnering with a vacation rental management company, like AvantStay, that can deliver all of these services and more.
Tip 5: Figure out financials for your short-term rental investment
Deciding how you’re going to finance your new vacation rental venture is key to your overall success. First, you’ll need to have a clear understanding of your investment objectives. Is your goal to have a short-term rental for occasional personal use? Do you want rental income to offset your mortgage? Or are you looking to maximize your cash-on-cash returns?
Once you have an understanding of market performance and your investment objectives, you can begin researching financing options. Three popular options for short-term rentals are traditional loans, asset-based loans, and hard money loans. Chat with different financial institutions and weigh the duration of credit as well as the different interest rates. Go with the option that puts you under the least amount of pressure for repayments.
Tip 6: Identify your ideal guest
When choosing a short-term rental property, envisioning who will stay there is going to inform your overall marketing strategy.
For example, if you purchase a high-end beachside property with modern features, then your ideal guest might be newly engaged couples or retired couples looking for a quiet week-long getaway.
Identify your ideal guest before you consider the property that you want to invest in. These are the people that you’ll want to attract with the right furnishings, decor, and amenities.
Tip 7: Pay attention to rules and regulations
Make sure that you are fully updated and understand the rules and regulations in place for the property, along with the neighborhood and city.
Check with your local city or county government about taxes. You might also 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. They also ensure neighboring properties know about your rental operation and aren’t taken by surprise.
Your due diligence on local rules and regulations will keep you safe from hefty fines and legal repercussions.
Tip 8: Plan your expenses
Investing in short-term vacation rentals is a great way to generate extra income, but you need to be mindful of both planned and unplanned expenses that may come your way as a property owner.
There are your usual consumables, things like cleaning supplies and toilet paper. Then, you have maintenance on facilities such as air conditioning, swimming pools, and landscaping.
Budget for these expenses so you’re never taken completely by surprise if you need to spend a little extra one month to repair the swimming pool heater.
Tip 9: Budget for insurance
Accidents happen, so make sure your short-term rental is covered when it comes to any breakages or accidents that may come your way.
A good short-term rental policy will cover the loss of income if your property cannot be rented due to damages, and the resulting repairs needed to make it occupancy-ready. If a guest should get injured on your property during their stay, short-term rental insurance can also help cover medical bills or legal fees. If guests accidentally leave a faucet running after they check out, insurance can help with the additional utility cost.
The average cost of short-term rental insurance policies ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 a year. Check with your current insurer to see if they offer any discounts for bundling policies.
Tip 10: Manage your overall expectations
It’s important to manage your expectations as you start the journey into buying a rental property.
Many vacation rental owners think that success will flow in overnight if they pick the right property, but that’s not always the case. Managing a vacation rental yourself can be a heavy lift. There’s handling guest requests, figuring out distribution on listing sites (known as OTAs or Online Travel Agencies), other digital marketing efforts, managing and maintaining your vacation property, and much more that goes into it.
It’s easier to go into the vacation rental industry with realistic expectations. Talk to other short-term rental owners about their experience. Research and understand the industry, the market, and what is required before you anticipate your success or failure.
The simplest way to manage your short-term rental investment
Investing in short-term rentals is not to be taken lightly. As you can see, there are many cogs that make the rental machine work. It can be a rewarding experience both mentally and financially if you can find the right property, with the right target market in the right location.
If you’d rather partner with a vacation rental management company to remove the guesswork from the guest work, AvantStay is here to help. 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—it’s that simple.
If you’re interested in learning more about how AvantStay can maximize your return on investment, our team is ready to help. Get started with our vacation rental management experts today!
Welcome to Port Aransas! If you’re yearning for sun, sand, and endless fun, Port Aransas is the perfect vacation destination for you. This delightful coastal town offers a wide range of exciting activities and hidden gems waiting to be explored. In this ultimate guide, we’ll highlight the top 13 things you absolutely can’t miss. Here’s an important tip while you’re planning your travels: staying at a vacation home is the ideal way to experience Port Aransas, especially if you’re traveling with a group. Fortunately, AvantStay offers a fantastic selection of vacation homes that cater to your needs.
1. Beach Activities
Let’s kick off our journey with the main attraction: the beaches! Get ready to soak up the sun, build sandcastles, and take refreshing dips in the crystal-clear waters. Port Aransas boasts pristine stretches of sandy paradise, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely beachcombing. Don’t forget your sunscreen and get ready for some serious beach bliss.
Source;: Travel and Leisure
2. Fishing and Boating
Calling all fishing enthusiasts! Port Aransas proudly holds the title of “Fishing Capital of Texas,” and it’s no wonder why. Cast your line into the abundant waters, reel in some impressive catches, and savor the thrill of the chase. You can try your hand at bay fishing, fishing off the Horace Caldwell Pier or Bob Hall Pier, or even fly fishing. Don’t worry if you’re new to fishing; there are plenty of charters and guides available to show you the ropes. If you’re into boating, you can also enjoy thrilling adventures like kayaking and jet skiing.
Source: Fisherman’s Wharf
3. Dolphin Watching
Prepare for an unforgettable experience as we embark on a dolphin watching tour. Hop aboard a boat and set sail on the sparkling Gulf waters, where you’ll have a front-row seat to witness these magnificent creatures leaping and playing in their natural habitat. It’s a truly magical encounter that will leave you in awe.
Source: Port A Escapes
4. Birding and Wildlife
Nature lovers, this is the place for you. Port Aransas is a paradise for birding enthusiasts and wildlife admirers alike. With its diverse ecosystem, you’ll have the chance to spot a fascinating array of bird species and encounter other remarkable wildlife. Grab your binoculars, explore the trails, and keep your eyes peeled for feathery friends, sea turtles, and even alligators.
Source: Port A Escape
5. Mustang Island State Park
For those seeking outdoor adventures, a visit to Mustang Island State Park is a must. Lace up your hiking boots, set up camp, and immerse yourself in nature’s wonderland. This park offers an array of activities, from hiking scenic trails to enjoying picnics and camping. It’s the perfect opportunity to embrace the great outdoors and create lasting memories.
Source: PortAransas.org
6. Port Aransas Nature Preserve
Get ready to be captivated by the Port Aransas Nature Preserve. This hidden gem boasts a unique ecosystem waiting to be explored. Traverse the winding walking trails and elevated boardwalks that meander through stunning landscapes. You’ll have the chance to reconnect with nature, spot wildlife, and capture Insta-worthy photos—keep your camera ready for breathtaking views. It’s a serene escape where you can recharge and connect with the wonders of the great outdoors.
Source: PortAransas.org
7. Visit the Port Aransas Museum
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Port Aransas at the Port Aransas Museum. Explore fascinating exhibits and get up close to artifacts that vividly depict the town’s heritage. Admission is free but donations are happily accepted to support the museum. Keep an eye out for any special events or programs or join one of the tours they offer—it’s the perfect chance to make history come alive.
Source: The Clio
8. Explore the Local Art Scene
Port Aransas is a hub of creativity, boasting a vibrant art scene. Take a leisurely stroll through art galleries, discover local studios, and marvel at stunning public art installations that grace the town’s streets. Keep an ear to the ground for upcoming art events and festivals—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of art and support local talent.
Source: PortAransas.org
9. Enjoy Fresh Seafood
If you have a taste for seafood, Port Aransas is a culinary paradise known for its delectable, fresh seafood straight from the Gulf. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes at local seafood restaurants, savoring the flavors of the ocean. From succulent shrimp to flavorful fish and delectable crab delights, your taste buds are in for a treat. Don’t forget to check out local seafood markets for the freshest catches to cook up in your vacation home.
Source: The Dunes
10. Golfing
Fore! If you fancy hitting the green, Port Aransas has got you covered. Tee off at one of the town’s fantastic golf courses and enjoy a round or two amidst beautiful coastal scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a novice looking to have some fun, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to perfect your swing and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.
Source: Palmilla Beach Resort & Golf Community
11. Shop at Local Boutiques and Souvenir Shops
Time for a little retail therapy! Port Aransas offers a unique shopping experience with its charming local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets, discover one-of-a-kind treasures, and bring home a piece of Port Aransas magic. From coastal-inspired decor to quirky souvenirs, there’s something for everyone.
Source: Port A Escapes
12. Visit the University of Texas Marine Science Institute
Unleash your inner marine scientist at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute. Explore fascinating exhibits, learn about marine ecosystems, and even participate in educational programs. It’s an opportunity to dive deep into the wonders of the ocean and broaden your knowledge of marine life.
Source: Texas Highways
13. Attend Local Events and Festivals
Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Port Aransas by attending its exciting events and festivals. From music festivals to fishing tournaments, there’s always something happening in this lively town. Check out the event calendar and make sure to time your visit with the ones that pique your interest. We’re partial to the Texas Sandfest, an annual sand sculpture competition where more than 100,000 attendees gather to create (and watch artists create) incredibly elaborate, beautiful sand sculptures. The Harvest Moon Regatta is also a popular event, the largest point-to-point sailboat race in the country. The regatta ends in Port Aransas, so you can enjoy the exciting finish from the beach or the jetty.
Source: Texas Highways
Remember, for the ultimate experience, consider staying at a vacation home, especially when traveling with a group. AvantStay offers a wide range of Port Aransas vacation homes that cater to your needs, providing comfort, space, and an unforgettable stay.
Now, pack your bags, gather your favorite travel companions, and get ready to embark on a journey filled with beachside bliss, epic adventures, and unforgettable memories. Port Aransas awaits, ready to shower you with its coastal magic. Bon voyage!
Hurricanes are a part of life for those who live near the water, and if you’re planning a vacation in one of the many areas that are prone to hurricane weather, it is important to be prepared. Here are some helpful tips to know before you travel to Key West or any other major hurricane hotspot.
When is Hurricane Season?
Hurricane Season begins in June and lasts through November. Peak season is mid-August to late October. There is an average of 6 hurricanes a year, approximately 3 are considered “major” in Hurricane Season.
Travel Insurance
As we all know, plans can change so we strongly advise guests to purchase travel insurance. Lucky for our customers, after completing a booking on the AvantStay website, guests will be given the option to add Allianz Insurance protection to their stay.
Vacation Hurricane Safety Tips & Preparation
Purchase Travel Insurance – Normally the insurance policy needs to be purchased prior to a storm being named. Travel insurance doesn’t ALWAYS protect you so ensure to ask as many questions as possible so that there is a clear understanding of the policy. (Also check the refund policies).
Hurricane Policies – Contact the establishment in which you are staying during a vacation to request details on their hurricane policies.
Download Health and Safety Apps – There are some apps such as “The Red Cross Hurricane App” that will allow you to track hurricanes and weather conditions in specific areas. Some apps will also give Storm Warning Alerts.
Keep a copy of all important documents – i.e. Itineraries, Driver’s Licenses, credit cards, and passport ID page in case the originals are lost or damaged.
Have an emergency plan in place – Ensure everyone in your travel party and maybe someone back home knows of it.
Have storm supplies handy – Of course, you do not want to pack a huge amount of things but if possible find a way to pack a few supplies that may come in handy if a storm arrives. Here are some items which are helpful to have:
First aid kit
Bottled water
Mini flashlights
Batteries
Rain gear
Blankets
Canned foods
Can opener
It is important to have “all of your ducks in a row” when traveling during such an unpredictable time. Although storms cannot be prevented, we can prepare ourselves as much as possible.
Remember safety for yourself, family and friends are most important.
