Central Oregon is one of the best destinations in the United States for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, delicious food and drink, and relaxation. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or colleagues, there are plenty of things to do and see in this beautiful region of the Pacific Northwest. And if you’re looking for the perfect accommodation for your group, look no further than AvantStay vacation rentals for a luxury stay, beautiful design, and premium amenities for everyone.
Let’s dive into the 18 top things to do in Central Oregon together!
1. Hiking Trails
Central Oregon is home to some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the United States. From the Deschutes River Trail to the Tumalo Falls Trail, you’ll find hiking trails that are perfect for all levels of hikers. One of the most popular hikes is the Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park. This challenging trail offers incredible views of the Crooked River Canyon and the surrounding mountains.
2. Mountain Biking Trails
Central Oregon is also a top destination for mountain bikers. There are over 300 miles of mountain biking trails in the area, ranging from easy to advanced. The Phil’s Trailhead network is a popular starting point for many mountain bikers, with trails that wind through the beautiful pine forests.
3. Water Activities
Central Oregon is home to many beautiful lakes and rivers, making it a great destination for water activities. You can go kayaking or paddle boarding on the Deschutes River, or spend a day on the beautiful Lake Billy Chinook. If you’re feeling adventurous, try white-water rafting on the McKenzie River!
4. Snow Sports
If you’re traveling during the colder seasons, Central Oregon is a winter wonderland, with world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities at Mt. Bachelor. The ski resort boasts over 4,000 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski resorts in the United States.
5. High Desert Museum
The High Desert Museum is an excellent place to learn about the natural and cultural history of Central Oregon. The museum has exhibits on everything from the Native American tribes that lived in the region to the plants and animals that call the high desert home.
6. Live Music Events
The Hayden Homes Amphitheater (formerly known as the Les Schwab Amphitheater) in Bend is a fantastic venue for live music events. The outdoor venue has hosted many big-name acts over the years, including Willie Nelson, Paul Simon, and Dave Matthews Band.
Source: Open Concept Architecture
7. Art Galleries and Shops
Downtown Bend is home to many fantastic art galleries and shops. You’ll find everything from pottery to paintings to jewelry made by local artists. Take a stroll through the downtown area and explore the many unique shops and galleries.
8. Craft Beer Scene
Central Oregon is a beer-lover’s paradise, with over 30 breweries in the region. From the award-winning Deschutes Brewery to the funky and experimental Crux Fermentation Project, you’ll find plenty of great options for craft beer in Central Oregon.
9. Wine Tasting
The Central Oregon region is also home to many fantastic wineries. You can take a wine tour and sample the local varietals, including pinot noir, chardonnay, and riesling. One of our favorite wineries is Faith, Hope and Charity Vineyards, located in Terrebonne. This winery offers stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and a variety of wines, including Pinot Noir and Tempranillo.
You can also check out Volcano Vineyards, a Bend-based winery that produces unique and award-winning wines, such as their Lava Red blend and Pinot Noir. They also have a tasting room in Tumalo.
We also recommend Maragas Winery, located in Culver, and known for their Estate Tempranillo and other Spanish-style wines. They offer tastings, tours, and events throughout the year.
10. Local Cuisine
Central Oregon has a thriving farm-to-table restaurant scene, with many restaurants using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You’ll also find plenty of food carts serving up everything from gourmet burgers to Thai street food. Here are a few of our favorites:
Chow, located in Bend, offers seasonal menus featuring locally sourced ingredients. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner and have a cozy atmosphere.
Pronghorn Resort has two farm-to-table restaurants: Cascada and Chanterelle. Both restaurants offer fresh, locally sourced ingredients and unique dishes.
Ariana is a cozy fine-dining restaurant in Bend that features seasonal menus using local ingredients. They offer a prix fixe menu and a la carte options.
Source: Visit Central Oregon
11. Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park is one of the most popular destinations in Central Oregon. The park is known for its incredible rock formations and stunning views of the Crooked River Canyon. The Misery Ridge Trail is a must-do hike for anyone visiting the park.
12. Newberry National Volcanic Monument
The Newberry National Volcanic Monument is a unique destination that offers a glimpse into the area’s volcanic past. The monument features lava flows, cinder cones, and other geological wonders. You can take a hike to the top of Lava Butte, a cinder cone that offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
13. Lava Butte
Lava Butte is a must-see destination in Central Oregon. This cinder cone offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and lava fields. You can take a hike to the top or drive up to the summit.
14. Spas and Hot Springs
Central Oregon is a great place to relax and unwind. There are many spas and hot springs in the area, including the McMenamins Old St. Francis School in Bend and the Belknap Hot Springs in the McKenzie River Valley.
Source: Oyster
15. Yoga Classes and Retreats
If you’re looking to de-stress and rejuvenate, consider taking a yoga class or attending a yoga retreat in Central Oregon. The area is home to many yoga studios and wellness centers.
Brasada Ranch, located in Powell Butte, offers a variety of yoga classes and retreats throughout the year. Their yoga classes take place in a beautiful, serene setting with stunning views of the Cascade Mountains. They also offer other wellness activities such as hiking, biking, and spa treatments.
Brasada Ranch has received many positive reviews from guests who have attended their yoga retreats. People rave about the beautiful location, the high-quality yoga classes, and the friendly staff. The resort also offers luxurious accommodations and delicious farm-to-table cuisine, making it a great choice for a relaxing and rejuvenating yoga retreat in Central Oregon.
16. Scenic Drives
Central Oregon is home to many beautiful scenic drives. You can take a drive through the McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway or the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway for stunning views of the mountains and lakes.
17. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Take a hot air balloon ride – Central Oregon’s stunning natural beauty is best appreciated from above, and a hot air balloon ride is one of the most unique and thrilling ways to experience it. Several companies offer hot air balloon rides over the region, giving you a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape.
18. Explore the Painted Hills
Located in the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, the Painted Hills are a unique and colorful geological formation. The hills are made up of layers of volcanic ash that have been eroded into stunning patterns of red, orange, and yellow.
Central Oregon offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences to relaxation. With so many great things to do and see in the area, you’ll never be bored.
If you’re planning a trip to Central Oregon with a group, consider staying in an AvantStay vacation rental. With properties that can accommodate up to 20 guests, you’ll have plenty of space to relax and enjoy your vacation. AvantStay offers properties with all the amenities and features you need to make your stay unforgettable. Book your stay today and start planning your Central Oregon adventure! Ready to check out other outdoor adventures and national parks? Explore our top vacation homes located near national parks across the country.
Joshua Tree National Park is a famous destination for tourists across the country as well as California locals. This national park hosts a combination of activities for both an adventurous spirit and a relaxed soul alike.
Sightseers and nature lovers can rejoice, as the park has many hiking and nature trails to explore. This scenic park boasts numerous outdoor attractions, such as rock formations, palm springs, rock-climbing mountains, and various campgrounds.
If you plan to visit Joshua Tree National Park during a group getaway, you have come to the right place.
Here is a list of the best and most exciting activities you can partake in at Joshua Tree. While not every activity is for everyone, there is a wide variety of things to do in Joshua Tree, so you should be able to find something to satisfy every type of traveler in your group.
Cottonwood Visitor Center
The Cottonwood Visitor Center is one of several visitor centers found inside Joshua Tree National Park. Open during the day from 8:30 am until 4 pm, this visitor center is located south of highway 62 and north of the 10 freeway, at the southern end of the park.
This visitor center is a small park store located inside Joshua Tree. While it is mostly just a gift shop, it acts as a logical first stop on your day of outdoor activity. The Cottonwood Visitor Center is a gateway to many different hiking trails located around the Cottonwood Springs area.
This visitor center is a hub for information on the park and serves as a means to purchase a parking pass. If you plan a trip to the south side of Joshua Tree National Park, consider stopping here first or giving the center a call.
Cottonwood Spring Oasis
The Cottonwood Spring Oasis is one of the best local wonders inside the Joshua Tree National Park.
This spring has quite an interesting backstory, as it was created due to natural earthquake activities. This strategic location has also been a hub for several wars fought by the Cahuilla Indians.
On top of its geographical advantage, this spring is a piece of gold rush history, as it served as an essential stop for prospectors heading west. In fact, Cotton Spring Oasis was a central hub for several mines during the gold rush since it offered access to water. If you are a history buff or enjoy learning about interesting land formations, this oasis is undoubtedly a spot for you.
Hidden Valley Nature Trail
Hiking on nature trails is easily one of the most popular activities to partake in at Joshua Tree, and the Hidden Valley nature trail is no exception to this rule.
This nature trail allows tourists to explore many of the unusually shaped but naturally-formed giant rock formations in Joshua Tree.
The Hidden Valley nature trail is especially popular because it is one of the shorter trails in this National Park. Many hiking trails take several hours, while a typical hike through this nature trail will only take 1 or 2 hours.
Jumbo Rocks
Rock nature trails are a popular attraction found at Jumbo Rocks. Joshua Tree National Park is full of unique rock formations that many visitors come from around the world to see.
Climbing routes such as the Arch Rock Trail and Skull Rock provide fascinating views of unique landscapes. Fortunately, these easy nature trails will only take a mile loop to walk through so it’s possible to hike several at a time if the weather allows.
Rock nature trails are also popular for those interested in rock climbing or photography. Camera lovers truly enjoy how easy it is to get a good shot here, and you’ll often see climbers bouldering along the way.
Barker Dam Nature Trail
The Barker Dam Nature Trail is another mile loop around a lovely landscape. This nature trail takes tourists past many of the titular Joshua Trees found in the Joshua Tree National Park.
The swaths of ancient petroglyphs found here have been left behind by earlier civilizations who lived in this park. These natural wonders are quite the mystery, estimated to be 2,000 years old or more, and attributed to prehistoric Native Americans.
On top of some of the history found here, the trail features some beautiful desert landscapes and local wildflowers. Make sure to look out for the park’s famous bighorn sheep while you are out here.
This nature trail suits those looking for an easy hike. The track is incredibly flat, and so many signs are posted that it would be difficult to get lost.
Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail
The Fortynine Palms Oasis trail stands out as one of the more lush experiences found at the national park. Many of the nature trails found in this park are filled with rocks or desert life, but Fortynine Palms stands out because its oasis gives life to some of the only non-succulent plant life in this desert.
Gaze upon the local greenery and geometric rock formations on this 3-mile trail. This path is just outside the park gates and has an easily accessible parking lot.
Like many other attractions at this national park, this nature trail is free to explore once you are inside the park.
Note that this trail is more challenging than a casual walk. If you are bringing small children with you, this may not be the best nature walk for your party.
Cholla Cactus Garden
One of the perks of being in California is that the weather is consistently sunny and warm in the desert climate.
Cholla cacti are a product of this warmer climate. While Joshua Tree consists of many different kinds of plant life, cholla cacti are one of those that stand out due to their beauty.
The Cholla Cactus Garden has the shortest official trail found in the Joshua Tree National Park. This trail comes in at only a quarter of a mile, so it is perfect for those who may have limited mobility or endurance. Be careful to stay on the marked trail and don’t get too close to the “jumping” cholla cactus as the stems will detach when brushed to attach themselves to you or your clothes.
Contact Mine Trail
This abandoned gold and silver mine is found just a few miles past the north entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. Hikers ready to take a walk through somewhere with a little less elevation gain will do well to visit this abandoned mine trail.
This pathway provides interesting sights of rustic remains of the mine. Visitors will get to see mine carts and railways as part of the abandoned mine.
Those looking for an entry-level hike before heading deeper inside the national park would do well to stop at this abandoned mine.
Lost Horse Mine Trail
Like the Contact Mine Trail mentioned before, the Lost Horse Mine Trail shares many of the same appeals. This enormous mine is a top destination inside the park.
History buffs will thoroughly enjoy this seven-mile hike that will lead you through a historic mine and mill. This mine is well preserved, and you can easily immerse yourself in the miner’s shoes as you’re walking this trail.
Keys View
Keys View is a lookout point found over the Coachella Valley. This scenic hotspot is a fantastic viewpoint of the mountains, the Salton Sea, and even Mexico. Keys Point is the perfect lookout spot because it is high atop a paved road and rests on a stable cliff in the best location in the park.
This locale is especially suitable for those looking to catch the sunset. Many visitors have claimed that watching the sunset at Keys View is one of their favorite experiences.
Keys View is undoubtedly a romantic location, so consider bringing your loved one to experience something one of a kind. Just make sure you check the weather and go on a clear day to avoid getting rained out.
Keys Ranch
If you enter from the park’s west entrance, make sure to stop at Keys Ranch. While not the most extensive attraction found in the park, Keys Ranch acts as a historical landmark to the early ranching culture found here.
Visitors can come to check out the small settlement and see all of the amenities earlier humans had used. This ranch served as a hub for the miners west during the gold rush over a hundred years ago.
Hidden Valley Campground
If you are staying in or around Los Angeles, you are only one road trip away from the Hidden Valley campground.
Those who love sleeping under the stars should look into this hotspot campground. Enjoy the Milky Way night sky free of light pollution in the typical Los Angeles area.
This campground is generous enough to provide restrooms and fire rings for its visitors. Other necessities like water will have to be packed in for the night.
White Tank Campground
White Tank Campground is an easy and enjoyable campground near Pinto Basin Road. This popular campground is surrounded by many granite formations, including Arch Rock. Popular activities at this campground include hiking and summer campfires.
Enjoy the pleasant, slow hike from your campground filled to the brim with geological history. You’ll find that the trek through the Arch Rock trail has a ton of plaques indicating interesting events found here.
If you want to check out some of the crazy geology found at Joshua Tree, this might be the campground for you.
Jumbo Rocks Campground
Of the many different campsites found inside the national park, Jumbo Rocks Campground manages to stand out amongst them with its scenery.
This campsite surrounds itself with a natural plant border, making it an attractive location for those who want to be surrounded by beautiful rocks and some greenery.
It is crucial to know, however, that this campsite does not allow for hammocks or other forms of horizontal ropes. These utilities are prohibited from being tied to Joshua trees or other local wildlife.
Black Rock Campground
Black Rock Campground is another locale in the backcountry of Joshua Tree. This campground offers many utilities that make it a perfect camping location.
The amenities included at this campground are cell phone reception, internet connection, a year-round dumping station, trash collection, portable water, and even some staff assistance on site.
The only downside to the campground is the risk of wildfires. Like most national parks, Black Rock Campground is incredibly dry and prone to wildfires. While campfires are permitted, campers must be cautious and keep their fire inside designated fire pits and on grills.
Ryan Mountain
Ryan Mountain Trail is a well-known hiking spot used by visitors. Those who frequent the park will surely be familiar with its elevation jumps and vertical landscapes.
While there are a variety of mountains to quench your thirst for climbing, this particular structure is well-paved and friendlier to a casual audience.
The rock-piled spot towards the middle of the mountain serves as a great resting point. Many visitors choose to pack a lunch and go to this picnic area as a break during their hike.
Horseback riding in Knob Hill Ranch
While technically just west of Joshua Tree National Park, Knob Hill Ranch provides guided tours open to the public. These tours feature horseback riding through Yucca Valley, where you will see plenty of local scenery.
First-time horseback riders and trailheads alike are welcome on these tours. The ranch offers lessons to those interested but unfamiliar with the art of horseback travel.
The tour gives ample time for you to get settled in on your horse before beginning your trek through the valley for some scenic views.
Bird-watching at the park
Bird-watching is an inspiring and accessible activity at Joshua Tree National Park. This park is in the perfect geographical location to attract avian wildlife. Birds love the permanent waterholes found throughout this crossroads between the Colorado and Mojave Deserts.
Popular birds to look out for are cedar waxwings, juncos, and even white-crowned sparrows. These birds are a hot commodity throughout bird-watching communities, as their rare presence to city-dwellers helps them stand out.
Many of the best spots for bird-watching offer other activities as well. These locations include Cottonwood Spring, the Barker Dam, and the Oasis of Mara. Each of these has natural water sources that attract bird life to it.
Joshua Tree Music Festival
If you are less of a nature lover and more of a music festival fanatic, the Joshua Tree Music Festival is the spot for you. This live music festival offers much different music than just bands performing on a stage.
On top of the typical musical performances, this music festival stands out because it offers other activities such as a yoga class, a sound bath, a songwriting class, and even a workshop about mindfulness.
This inspiring get-together is one of the unique things you can do at the national park. This one-of-a-kind music festival attracts music lovers to the scene.
San Andreas Fault
Joshua Tree is in the middle of a cross-section with hundreds of different earthquake faults. Resting on top of one of the Earth’s tectonic plates, this giant rift stands out by maintaining its status as one of the most significant faults in the world.
The San Andreas Fault runs more than 800 miles across California, stretching from the Salton Sea to Cape Mendocino. This fault is so significant that it practically splits California in two.
Those familiar with the Grand Canyon will see many of the same rock structures at this fault.
Travelers interested in natural phenomena and fascinating geological structures should stop at the San Andreas Fault for a quick look.
The town of Joshua Tree
The town of Joshua Tree is nestled in a very small sideline of the Twentynine Palms Highway. While you might miss this town if you blink too fast, its small size is deceptive. The town is one of the most interesting locales you will see on your travels. It is filled with one-of-a-kind art and other eye-catching installations.
Joshua Tree has become a tourist attraction because of its name and sixties-themed aesthetics. This retro sixties town hosts many local businesses, such as the Grateful Desert Herb Shoppe & EcoMarket.
Make sure to pay this quirky town a visit sometime during your trip to the Joshua Tree National Park.
Pioneertown
Travel back in time and get a taste of what it was like to be in the Old West.
This old town was created in 1946 and was used as a movie set for various cowboy films. While the town’s origins are artificial, its fully functioning businesses are not. Pioneertown is filled with small shops and restaurants to entertain you on your visit.
On top of the authentic western aesthetic, animal lovers should rejoice. One of the highlights of this small town is its Soap & Goats store. This little business sells locally crafted goods and allows customers to visit the friendly goats.
Slab City
Slab City, also known as just the Slabs, is a community of desert dwellers near the Salton Sea and Twentynine Palms. Slab City is full of various artists and misfits looking to make their mark on the world in a way they know how.
Like the town of Joshua Tree, his area is filled with interpretative sculptures. Some of the more inspired pieces are made from old televisions, decorated cars, and various tires.
The obvious crown jewel, of course, is Salvation Mountain. Salvation Mountain is a relatively small man-made hill found right beside Slab City, which was made by Leonard Knight. With the message, “God Is Love,” Leonard made this as a tribute to God and the love he has for everyone. This mountain is full of colorful patterns and textures made from spray paint and other decorative materials.
The Slabs and its many artistic attractions are a popular spot for those looking to snap a photograph and spend some time enriching themselves.
Mecca Hills Wilderness
The following location calls out to climbers of southern California. The Mecca Hills Wilderness is found just south of Joshua Tree. This enormous canyon stands out among nature lovers because of its unique surface and textured pattern.
Gazing upon the Mecca Hills Wilderness, you might see walls that resemble surfaces that would exist only on otherworldly planets. The walls of the Colorful Painted Canyon will surround you and stimulate your senses with eye candy.
Be warned that the Mecca Hills Wilderness is not the most accessible hike. This canyon is vast, and many slot canyons need ladders to climb to get through.
Seasoned climbers, however, will be rewarded with one of the best hikes available in the United States.
Joshua Tree Rock Shop
It only makes sense that a park famous for its many geological formations would feature a rock store. Wander around this immense store of stones to look at the many exciting crystals one might find in the national park.
While the energy of these minerals might not resonate with everyone, you will undoubtedly find phenomenal shapes and colors while browsing the wares.
Joshua Tree Saloon
Come and enjoy a refreshing drink at the Joshua Tree Saloon. Take yourself back to a simpler time when there were fewer forms of entertainment and a saloon acted as the local hub for fun.
The Joshua Tree Saloon is only a few minutes from the park’s west side entrance. It is the perfect location to come for a bite to eat during your day out and about. This well-preserved eatery has indoor and outdoor seating to serve everyone in different forms of weather.
When choosing traditional bar food such as burgers and fries, it’s hard to go wrong. These simple dishes pair well with the many delicious drinks on the cocktail menu.
Algoberto’s Taco Shop
If you’re heading to Joshua Tree National Park and are not from the area, you will have to make it a point to try some authentic Mexican food. While the most authentic food from this culture would naturally be found in Mexico, restaurants in southern states such as California and Texas are your next best bet.
Feast upon the many tasty options, such as the titular tacos or meaty enchiladas. These delicacies are even made especially tastier with the knowledge that they are also incredibly cheap.
For some of the tastiest Mexican food you can find in the United States, you will want to stop at Algoberto’s Taco Shop. This taco shop is only a ten-minute drive from the park entrance.
Natural Sisters Cafe
If you are looking for something more natural and healthy, consider visiting the Natural Sisters Cafe. Alternative diets of many kinds will be satiated through these healthy plant-based food options offered at this cafe.
Classic cafe items such as a veggie wrap, smoothie, or salad are offered here.
This cafe also features the famous “Welcome to Joshua Tree” mural. This painting on the side of the building is perfect for an Instagrammable photograph and is a landmark in its own right.
After their day of history and travel, those looking for a more modern-style restaurant would do well to top their night off here.
Oasis of Mara
The Oasis of Mara is another rare commodity, as it is one of the few places in the park with natural surface water.
This oasis was quickly settled in by the Serrano. These earlier settlers named the oasis directly after its grass and spring water. The Serrano planted 29 notable palm trees when first settling, each representing a successful birth of a baby boy from their tribe. These palm trees are so important because they provided settlers with clothing, food, cooking ware, and housing.
After the early settlers, later people who lived in this area, such as cowboys and miners, continued to utilize the oasis’s water. This natural wonder has served as a lifeline to those who have lived nearby over the centuries.
Today, this oasis is mainly filled with tortoises and other wildlife.
Hall of Horrors
The Hall of Horrors found in Joshua Tree National Park is a set of close quarters between large rock walls. These hallway-like structures are naturally formed and make for some of the most exciting perspectives one can look through. It’s a spine-tingling experience.
Although this location is unique and fun to look at, beware of claustrophobia, these halls are incredibly tight-fitting.
Park Boulevard
While Park Boulevard is not necessarily a location, this road can be a great way to check out what the park offers.
While it is great to be able to explore each inch of the park, not everyone has that kind of time. Driving down Park Boulevard can serve as a terrific compromise to see a lot of different locales at once.
This road traverses many of the most interesting structures in the national park. Those seeking just a few glances before moving on to the next stop will do well to drive down Park Boulevard for some sightseeing.
Annual Night Sky Festival
Last but not least, we have the annual Night Sky Festival. This annual get-together is for those looking for a more relaxed experience.
This festival focuses more on relaxation than the extensive hikes and learning activities offered around most of the park. Sit back and take in the panoramic views as you look out at the clear, flat landscape and admire the horizon. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you feeling refreshed.
The Joshua Tree National Park is certified as an International Dark Sky Park. Light pollution or the abundance of light makes it difficult to stargaze effectively, particularly around big cities. Areas such as national parks that are further away from large metropolitan areas allow for the luxury of top-notch stargazing.
Stargazing is accessible anywhere in the park during any time of year, but the annual Night Sky Festival provides a more communal experience under a unified theme.
Final Thoughts
In the end, there are so many things to do in Joshua Tree National Park. This treasure of a park contains hundreds of scenic views and tourist attractions to appeal to all sorts of interests and hobbies.
People who enjoy warmer climates such as the Mojave Desert, Death Valley, or the Colorado Desert will be particularly at home in this warm and hospitable climate.
The NPS, or the National Park Service, considers Joshua Tree National Park one of the fascinating clashes in a distinct desert ecosystem. Plants and animals make their home here in a land sculpted by dry heat and the occasional sight of rain.
Next time you want to get away to a warm location such as San Diego or Las Vegas, consider heading out to Joshua Tree National Park and staying with us instead for a desert getaway.
Vacation rental amenities can turn a great guest experience into an unforgettable one. Happy guests leave positive reviews which drive more bookings, repeat guests, and ultimately more revenue.
If you know someone with a short-term vacation rental, or maybe you want to treat yourself, consider gifting them one of these vacation rental amenities to elevate the guest experience and maximize their home’s value. From birthdays to Mother’s or Father’s Day, check out our top 12 gift ideas for vacation rental homeowners.
The Mega Four in a Row set is perfect for poolside lounging or cozy family game nights by the fire. This stylish take on a popular classic comes with a hand-painted pine playing board and 42 wooden chips. Standing at 18.75 inches tall and 23.5 inches wide, the Mega Four in a Row set is larger than the original but can easily be moved around your short-term vacation rental for impromptu game sessions.
The Mega Jumbling Tower is another great addition for vacation rental backyard hangs. Fun for all ages, this natural timber stacker includes 45 gold and white hand-painted blocks. At the start of gameplay, the tower stands at two feet tall, so be sure to give your guests plenty of space for stacking and the inevitable tumbling.
Add some friendly competition to any backyard barbecue with these mahogany cornhole boards. This two-by-four-foot regulation cornhole board set features a premium-grade plywood deck with a solid mahogany frame. These boards are lightweight and portable with built-in carrying handles, so guests can easily set up or move the game throughout the space.
Raise the stakes of game nights at your short-term rental with a poker table. Guests will appreciate the rustic yet modern design of this mahogany table, doubling as a statement piece post-game. With built-in beverage holders and the option to complete the set with matching chairs, the only things missing are your deck of cards and poker chips.
Bring the arcade to your short-term vacation rental with a sleek, modern foosball table. At nearly five feet in length, this fast-paced game can easily fit in a dedicated game room, covered patio, or main living space. The table is made from burl wood and stainless steel and can accommodate two to four players at one time.
Shuffleboard is an old-time favorite and a great addition to your vacation rental amenities. At nine feet in length, this table is on the smaller end of shuffleboard tables so you don’t have to worry about it taking up too much space. There’s also a handy storage cabinet built into one of the pedestal legs to keep extra pucks and sand out of sight.
Maximize your short-term rental living space with a multi-use ping pong table. Guests can go from ping pong tournaments to dining al fresco in seconds with this convertible indoor/outdoor table by simply removing the steel net. When ping pong isn’t in play, this table can be used as a dining or conference table, comfortably seating 10 to 12 people.
A pool table is an essential piece for any short-term rental game room. This pool table from West Elm is built-to-last and withstand guest use, crafted from solid wood, leather drop pockets, and spill-resistant felt. Complete with a rack and accessories kit, this table comes ready for pool sharks and rookie players alike.
Give guests the option to move the fun from the pool to the ping pong table (and everywhere in between) with a rolling patio cooler. This stylish, steel cooler can hold 80 quarts, equivalent to 100 12-ounce cans plus ice. Your vacation rental guests won’t have to pause the party with this convenient cart, equipped with a bottle opener, cap catcher, and insulated basin that keeps drinks cold for up to 36 hours.
Bikes are a great vacation rental amenity that gives guests the freedom to explore nearby attractions. The Around the Block bike by Sixthreezero is a low-maintenance bike built for comfort—perfect to have ready for guests who want to cruise to the beach, check out the local farmers’ market, and more. These bikes are available in multiple speeds and are ideal for casual to up-tempo rides.
From deserts to mountains to beaches, a fire pit is a must-have for any short-term vacation rental outdoor space. This luxurious centerpiece is perfect for outdoor lounging, wine nights by the fire, and family s’more sessions. The fiber-reinforced concrete frame is covered in a weather-resistant sealant to withstand all elements. Powered by propane, the fire pit will instantly warm up your space with a simple push-button spark ignition.
If you’re looking for that wow factor for your short-term rental, look no further than this revamped arcade-classic basketball game. Featuring black genuine leather, brass backboard, and black nylon chording, this deluxe basketball game is so luxurious you won’t want to miss a shot—baskets or photo ops.
Unwrap a first-class guest experience
Furnishing a short-term rental and selecting the best vacation rental amenities for your guests can be hard work. Luckily, when you partner with AvantStay, you get access to our award-winning interior design and procurement services. Our designers review every home added to the portfolio and create memorable and inspiring designs that transform spaces and maximize value.
We help procure and install furniture and arrange bedrooms and common spaces to maximize occupancy. Our designers also curate experiential elements like those listed above so guests get the most out of their stay, driving positive reviews, more bookings, and increased revenue.
If you’re interested in learning more about our vacation rental management and design services, our team is ready to help. Get started today!
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.
Just like that, tax season is here. This not-so-festive time of year can be stressful for short-term rental owners, but it doesn’t have to be. Preparation is key when it comes to filing your taxes. Our guide will make this often tedious process a breeze. We’ll cover unique vacation rental tax rules, deductions, and everything in between.
The filing deadline to submit 2024 tax returns is on April 15, 2025.
The 14-day rule
One of the most important vacation rental tax rules is the 14-day rule. According to the IRS, if a property is used as a home and you rent it out for less than 14 days in the tax year, you do not have to report income generated. On the other hand, if you rent your property for 14 days or more, you have to report your income and are subject to taxes. Luckily, you can deduct expenses that come from running your short-term rental, but more on that later.
If you stayed at your vacation rental home for more than 14 days, or more than 10% of the total time rented, things get a little tricky. When reporting your expenses, you’ll have to categorize them by rental use and personal use. The IRS considers personal use as any time you or someone in your family occupies your vacation rental. It’s also considered personal use if you rent your home to anyone for “less than a fair rental price.” If you need to stay at your property to work on home maintenance projects, those stays don’t count toward your personal use days. Just be sure to document the time and reason for your stay.
1031 Exchanges
Short-term rental investors should leverage the tax benefits of a 1031 exchange. In short, a 1031 exchange is the act of “swapping” one investment property for another like-kind property. If you meet the requirements of 1031, you’re able to defer capital gains tax on the sale. Investors can use a 1031 exchange to purchase a vacation rental property, as long as the home is rented for more than 14 days in the tax year. The rules and requirements of 1031 exchanges can be complicated, so short-term rental investors should work with a tax professional before making any moves.
Short-term rental tax deductions
If you rent your home out for more than 14 days, you’re able to deduct the expenses of running your short-term rental business from your income. Common short-term rental tax deductions include:
One thing to keep in mind is the difference between repairs and improvements. Most repair costs can be considered tax write-offs, while home improvement costs can be a little more complicated. A repair is when you fix something that is damaged or broken, while an improvement adds value to your vacation rental. Examples of improvements include room additions, installing a pool, upgrading your appliances, and more. Divvy up these expenses and keep detailed, accurate records and receipts.
We also suggest using IRS Publication 527 as your go-to resource for all vacation rental tax questions and consider working with a tax professional to help with the nuances of these deductions.
Schedule C vs. Schedule E
When filing your vacation rental taxes, you’ll have to choose the right 1040 form. The two main options for short-term rentals are Schedule C and Schedule E. With Schedule C, you’re subject to a self-employment tax which is used to fund Medicare and Social Security. With Schedule E, your rental income is considered passive and you’re not subject to the self-employment tax.
For both forms, you’ll need to provide documented expenses, 1099s for contractor payments, property usage schedule, and gross rental income. Here’s how to determine which form you should file:
Schedule C
Use the Schedule C form if managing your short-term rental is your primary business and you provide guests with substantial services during their stay. Examples of substantial services include:
Substantial services don’t include the cleaning of public areas, paying utilities, repairs and maintenance, providing WiFi, etc.
Schedule E
Use the Schedule E form if your short-term rental is a way to generate additional income and you don’t provide substantial services or enough involvement for the IRS to consider you a self-employed vacation rental manager.
Local laws for vacation rental taxes
Vacation rental tax laws vary by state and local governments. Some jurisdictions require hosts to collect occupancy taxes directly from guests. These taxes are also known as lodging, hotel, or transient taxes depending on the location. Several online travel agencies (OTAs), like Airbnb, collect occupancy taxes on behalf of vacation rental hosts, but this also varies by location. In most cases, you will be responsible for collecting and remitting any taxes. For this reason, it’s essential that you understand your local vacation rental tax laws and payment schedules.
Partner with an expert
Ditch the operational headache of running a short-term rental on your own (and avoid self-employment taxes) by hiring a vacation rental management company. When you partner with AvantStay, you get access to our Policy & Compliance team which ensures your home is compliant and operating within all regulations governed by HOAs and other local authorities. We collect all required taxes from guests directly and report and remit taxes on your behalf in compliance with local regulations. We also provide a detailed year-end statement that includes all expenses categorized according to Schedule E. Another perk? Your management fee could be tax deductible!
Looking for the best restaurants in ATX? Let’s taco ‘bout it (breakfast tacos, specifically).
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or just want to spice up your dining experience at home, you’re entering a foodie’s heaven here. From someone who used to be an Austin local (expat if you will), this lineup is filled with all you need from breakfast tacos to ramen, sushi to specialty pizza, and Tex Mex to BBQ. Even if you’re not hungry right now, you definitely will be after reading this. Bon appétit!
Source: DoorDash
Koriente
Located in downtown Austin is a hidden gem known as Koriente – a pan-Asian restaurant and tea house managed by owner Jay Lee and his mother. They treat customers to a diverse array of balanced and delicious dishes, catering to every dietary preference from vegan to gluten-free. Some of our favorite dishes include miso-honey-glazed mahi mahi, curries with rice medallions, and japchae. You can order takeout, but we recommend dining in for the full experience.
Ramen Tatsu-ya
Ramen Tatsu-ya is a collaboration between local chefs and DJs, Tatsu Aikawa and Takuya Matsumoto. The duo met when they were hip-hop DJs in the Austin scene and the rest is history. From their legendary broth to the best backyard in all of ATX, this spot is a must-see.
Bufalina Pizza
Craving pizza? Head to Bufalina. Owner Steven Dilley and team are here to wow with Neapolitan-style pizzas. The margherita pizza here is always a winner, but don’t miss out on specials like their potato and Parmesan pie. As far as salads go, we recommend the stracciatella and Caesar salads. And wine connoisseurs, you’re in luck with two wine managers and a director on staff – the selection here is everything.
Source: Austin Chronicle
Birdie’s
If there’s one thing I miss most about living in Austin, it’s a trip to Birdie’s. This is one of the best laid-back wine bars in East Austin. It won Austin’s Best Neighborhood Wine Bar back in 2021, has an adorable patio, and features an ever-evolving menu with gorgeous dishes. A trip here ensures delicious handmade pastas, steak and vegetables, and seasonal appetizers that go perfect with their wine collection. Make sure to save room for dessert!
Nixta Taqueria
Chef Edgar Rico and Sara Mardanbigi co-own this charming and quirky taqueria with multiple patios and a carefully curated natural wine list. Nixta Taqueria’s culinary skills shine through with modern, flavorful takes on tacos and tostadas, making it one of our favorite spots in East Austin.
Lin Asian Bar + Dim Sum
Chef Ling Qi Wu oversees several restaurants across Austin. But it is here at Lin, her first restaurant, where you can truly experience her forte—simple yet refined Chinese and pan-Asian delicacies, ranging from her treasured soup dumplings to delectable Hakka eggplants and admirable salt-and-pepper lobster tails. Hungry yet? Same.
Source: The House
Buzz Mill
Two words: breakfast tacos. This trendy 24-hour hangout, tucked away in the unassuming heart of Riverside, serves up some of our favorite brekky tacos. Paired with their honey lavender latte, you’ve scored a perfect morning. Come to Buzz Mill later for happy hour or a comedy show where you can enjoy their homemade infused vodkas and a wide range of eats from one of the many food trucks outside.
Stubb’s
Stubb’s is a legendary must-have for all BBQ enthusiasts. With its rich history and delectable smoked meats, Stubb’s has earned a reputation as a local favorite and a go-to spot for visitors alike. On summer nights, you can step outside for live music at Stubb’s Amphitheater—the best place to dance off that pulled pork sandwich you just devoured in 5 seconds.
Kitty Cohen’s
Kitty Cohen’s is a trendy restaurant and cocktail bar just oozing with retro charm and laid-back vibes. Known for its chic and stylish poolside setting, this hotspot is the place for cooling off on hot Texas days while sipping on creative and refreshing cocktails and snacking on light bites.
Mour Cafe
Mour Cafe is a farm-to-table gem with a dreamy patio and cozy seating. This charming cafe is beloved for its delectable menu, offering a healthy range of comfort foods, artisanal coffee, and charming baked goods.
Source: Conde Naste Traveler
June’s All Day
June’s All Day is giving us all that Parisian bistro charm with a modern twist. This trendy spot is renowned for its delectable all-day dining options. If you’re brunching and feel a little rough from last night, we recommend their chicken sandwich—it’s everything.
Bar 508
This wouldn’t be a proper Austin blog without including our favorite mezcal bar. Bar 508 is one of the most vibrant buildings found in the cultural district with a variety of sweet and spicy mezcal cocktails. Order the El Diablo, a delicious concoction of mezcal, blackberry, cassis, lime and ginger beer. When you’re nice and hungry, go next door to Pelóns for world-class Tex Mex.
1618 Asian Fusion
1618 Asian Fusionis home to exactly that, a fusion of Asian dishes. From Vietnamese to Thai, Chinese and Singaporean food this spot caters to every taste bud. We recommend going for Dim Sum Brunch on Sunday and getting their shrimp and chive dumplings or liu sha bao (salted egg yolk lava steamed bun) – and a bottle of champagne, of course.
Source: ABA
ABA
Bringing Middle Eastern influences with a Texan flair, ABA’s menu features a wide array of mouthwatering mezze plates, grilled meats, and flavorful seafood dishes. Our dream day at ABA includes dining outside on the charming patio and ordering the spicy lamb ragu.
Two Hands
Come to Two Hands for an unforgettable brunch. Known for their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant boasts a menu with the freshest flavors of Texas. We recommend ordering the coconut yoghurt, the Two Hands crispy chili fries, and the chicken schnitzel roll.
Paperboy
Ok now we’re in the brunch mood. Head to Paperboy for obsession-worthy Migas and Texas hash. After you’re nice and Paloma’d up, take a walk around East 11th street for cute local shops, like Vintage Bookstore and Wine Bar.
Source: Open Table
Group Therapy
Group Therapy, located in Hotel Zaza, is favorite amongst locals for its eclectic dining area and diverse menu with a Texan twist on global flavors. Whether you’re meeting up with friends for drinks and small bites or indulging in a full meal, Group Therapy is definitely worth a visit.
Iron Cactus
More Tex Mex! Iron Cactus is a beloved Tex-Mex restaurant that has been serving up delicious dishes since 1996. From sizzling fajitas to refreshing margaritas, this spot offers a delightful dining experience that we think perfectly captures the spirit of Austin’s culinary scene.
Cenote
Your dream breakfast restaurant patio? Oh, that’s Cenote. This quirky and charming cafe is a total treat for your taste buds…and your IG feed. With awe-inspiring breakfast bites, fabulous lattes, and a whimsical ambiance, Cenote is a must-see.
Source: Lou’s
Lou’s
Lou is a true foodie’s paradise, where every dish is crafted with passion and creativity. This restaurant has gained a loyal following for its inventive and flavorful menu (and mainly its chicken) that deserves a huge thumbs up.
Rosita’s Al Pastor
You know the tacos are about to change your life when there’s no website. Rosita’s Al Pastoris a food truck, drive-thru, and dine-in restaurant located in Riverside. It’s in the name, so you know what to do—order the al pastor tacos. Make sure to get one of each of their salsas, too.
Barton by AvantStay
Experience the Best of Austin Dining and Stay with AvantStay
If you’re searching for the perfect places to stay in ATX, our Austin vacation rentals have just what you need. Spend the day indulging, then return to a peaceful home-away-from-home with all the amenities you’re 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 trip to Austin? See our ATX blogs here:
If California is the land of milk and honey, you could consider the city Newport Beach the whipped cream. Located along Southern California’s stunning west coast in Orange County, Newport Beach is one of the top tourist destinations for its natural, cultural, and historical bounty.
Below, you’ll find a list of the 25 best things to do in Newport Beach. Book a stunning accommodation and get ready to explore all that this trendy area has to offer!
About Newport Beach
Located halfway between San Diego and Los Angeles, Newport Beach was once Orange County’s primary port, developed by James McFadden during the post-Civil War era. Once Los Angeles established itself as the main business center of Southern California, Newport Beach developed a successful tourism industry.
The geography of Newport Beach consists of the Balboa Peninsula, a long stretch of land that juts out from the coastline, creating a natural harbor with great water sports and the ultimate city for sightseeing. Over the 19th and 20th centuries, developers have built seven islands along the Peninsula’s coastline.
Newport Beach’s stunning coastline contains gorgeous beaches, state parks, and nature preserves to enjoy year-round perfect weather. Along with a wealth of outdoor activities for nature lovers and extreme sports enthusiasts, Newport Beach is home to:
Posh resorts
Spas
Boutique shops
Restaurants
When planning a vacation to this coastal slice of paradise, you can find a different set of activities and destinations to enjoy each day. Whether you’re looking for a fancy and relaxing reprieve from a fast-paced grind or an action-packed family vacation, Newport Beach has something for all ages and interests.
25 Best Things to Do in Newport Beach
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
Also known as The Back Bay, Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve is Southern California’s largest expanse of coastal wetlands, encompassing 1000 acres of unfettered nature. The scenery is gorgeous and serene, and the preserve also features many trails for hiking and biking.
Families can take horseback riding tours of the wetlands, while nature lovers can explore the trails on foot. The Back Bay also lies along a major aviary migration route, making it popular with bird watchers.
Newport Landing
As Newport Beach is a coastal town, you can expect amazing seafood at any time. Newport Landing is a beloved, longstanding staple for seafood and oysters fresh off the boat.
The charming restaurant is within walking distance of other popular tourist destinations like the Newport Harbor, Balboa Island Ferry, and meeting points for sports fishing, cruises, and whale watching tours.
Whale Watching
Whales are some of the most majestic creatures on earth. The Pacific Ocean is home to a wide variety of whale species that you can observe right off the coast of Newport Beach.
During the winter and spring, you can watch gray whales migrating south to warmer waters. During the summer and fall months, you’ll see blue whales. There’s always a chance to catch a glimpse of other creatures throughout the year, including:
Killer whales
Humpbacks
Finbacks
Sharks
Dolphins
Whale watching is a must when you visit Newport Beach, and there are plenty of companies offering daily tours.
Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach is a neighboring coastal town that’s a quick 10-minute drive from Newport Beach, offering amazing beaches, boardwalks, and cultural destinations of its own.
You could make a day trip to one of California’s premier surfing beaches to marvel at skilled surfers catching massive waves. If you’re up for some exercise, you can enjoy an easy 25-minute bike ride from Newport to Huntington.
Newport Beach Pier
A stroll along Newport Beach Pier is visually dazzling and a lesson in Newport Beach history. Originally McFadden’s Wharf, Newport Beach Pier stretches nearly one-fifth of a mile along the Balboa Peninsula, acting as the city’s premier shipping dock when it was a port during the late 19th century.
Newport Beach Pier is a beautifully preserved wooden pier that offers tourists stunning views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. It also offers various dining and shopping destinations right on the water.
Paddle Board and Kayak Tours
If surfing is too extreme for your taste, paddle boarding is the perfect way to glide along the water while gazing at Newport Beach’s gorgeous coastline. Paddle Boards are giant surfboards that offer a stable platform for standing while you paddle through the tranquil waters. It’s great exercise and doesn’t have a steep learning curve (like surfing does), making it a fun solution for first-timers.
If you want even more stability, kayaking is an equally active and entertaining option. Most outdoor tour companies rent paddle boards and kayaks, offering guided tours around the popular beaches.
Sherman Library and Gardens
Originating in 1955, Sherman Library and Gardens was named for founder Arnold Haskell’s mentor and fellow nature lover, M. H. Sherman. Sherman Library houses hundreds of books about the flora and geography of the California coast.
The Gardens encompass a floral paradise among 2 acres of beautifully manicured grounds where you’ll find:
A fern garden
Japanese garden
Rose garden
Succulent garden
Tea and herb garden
Outdoor eateries
Make sure you pack your camera to snap the picturesque landscape.
Environmental Nature Center
A visit to the Environmental Nature Center is as fun as it is educational. Built during the 1970s, the Environmental Nature Center is 3.5 acres of interactive biospheres. It represents the various ecological and geographical environments in California.
There’s a circular hiking trail that hits each biosphere, creating a unique experience where you can walk from the desert to the marshes to the redwood forests all in one visit.
International Surfing Museum
Even if you don’t know how to surf, this fascinating museum will educate you on the history and crucial role of surfing on the Orange County coast. You’ll learn about the Olympic swimmer and Hawaiian native Duke Kahanamoku, who introduced surfing as a sport in the 1920s.
Located in Huntington Beach, which is one of the premier surfing spots, you can spend the morning perusing vintage surfboards, films, and other artifacts before heading to the beach to watch modern-day surfers rip through giant waves.
Crystal Cove State Park
Sandwiched between Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar Beach, Crystal Cove State Park is one of the largest state parks in Orange County.
It contains over 3 miles of pristine coastline and 2,400 acres of inland territory with natural attractions such as:
Canyons
Coastal cliffs
Tide pools
Sandy beaches
Verdant rolling hills
There are hiking and biking trails along with campsites.
You can easily spend a weekend touring this vast state park and taking advantage of its pristine beaches for swimming and diving.
Corona del Mar State Beach
Meaning “crown of the sea” in Spanish, the Corona del Mar State Beach is the most popular public beach in Newport Beach. It’s got 30 acres of sandy shoreline and a half-mile swath of the Pacific Ocean.
The water is perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, or floating, while the sandy beach has volleyball nets for impromptu tournaments. There’s also plenty of space for sandcastle building, family picnics, and sunbathing.
Corona del Mar Beach also has public restrooms and showers, along with fire pits that are perfect for roasting marshmallows or late-night hangouts under the stars.
Newport Harbor
After spending the day sunbathing and swimming at Corona del Mar State Beach, you can head over the rocky jetty to Newport Harbor, a man-made marina and boardwalk. Newport Harbor is a charming destination with views of yachts, sailboats, and racing boats dotting the blue water.
The marina is home to many clubs and rental agencies that offer sailboat rentals or luxurious day cruises.
Newport Harbor also has a wealth of restaurants that run the culinary gamut to grab a casual or formal dinner. There’s also a fishing dock with picnic tables and volleyball courts.
The Wedge
For extreme sports enthusiasts, The Wedge is the best beach to get your thrills. Encompassing the eastern shoreline of the Balboa Peninsula, The Wedge has waves that can tower up to 30 feet, making it the most popular destination for surfing and bodyboarding.
While it may not be the best swimming beach due to giant waves and a strong undertow, The Wedge has a beautiful sandy shore for sunbathing.
Fashion Island
As the name implies, Fashion Island is Newport Beach’s premier shopping mall right on the water. Taking full advantage of the ocean air and perfect climate, Fashion Island is an open-air mall with more than 150 boutique clothing stores and well-known department stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom.
Shopaholics will be in paradise, and any unwilling participants can distract themselves by going to see a movie at the on-site movie theater and dining at one of many high-end restaurants or food stands.
If you’re staying at a rental home, you can grab some groceries at Whole Foods, conveniently located on the premises.
Balboa Fun Zone
Located on the Balboa Peninsula, Balboa Fun Zone is a historic and iconic entertainment destination that lives up to its name. Originating in 1936, Balboa Fun Zone is a year-round carnival with:
Rollercoasters
Food stands
Arcades
Harbor cruises
A giant Ferris wheel
Kids can play their favorite video games at the arcade, and families can scream together on daring rides before ending the day at their spacious rental property.
Balboa Fun Zone could also be a romantic date night where couples can cozy up in a Ferris Wheel car together as they gaze out at the sun setting over the ocean.
Lido Marina Village
Located on Balboa Peninsula, Lido Marina Village is a high-end beachside commercial zone with every manner of retail represented with chic charm. You can spend all day meandering the flowery, waterfront shopping streets lined with:
Boutique clothing shops
Pet supply stores
Wine and liquor stores
Gyms
Bar and restaurants
Lido Marina Village has one of the most incredible farmer’s markets, with California’s most colorful bounty of produce, meats, cheeses, and prepared foods on tantalizing displays.
Balboa Island
As part of the transition from a business port to a tourist destination, seven man-made islands were built along the Balboa Peninsula. Balboa Island is one of the largest and most visited of those islands. It’s home to a largely residential area with picturesque homes and a lazy beach-town feel.
There are plenty of shopping zones and locally-owned restaurants to explore, including a beloved ice cream parlor that serves decadent candy-coated ice cream bars.
One of the most popular activities on Balboa Island is biking around the coastline. There are plenty of places to rent bikes. There are also kayak and paddleboard rentals to explore the tranquil waters surrounding Balboa Island.
Balboa Island Ferry
One of the area’s first tourist attractions, Balboa Island Ferry was erected in 1919 to connect Newport Beach with Balboa Island. While its services were meant to save commuters the long 6-mile drive up the Balboa Peninsula and across the bridge to Balboa Island, the stunning ocean views have made the Ferry ride a tourist attraction.
The ferry runs seven days a week from 6:30 am through midnight, with space for cars and bikes. If you’re traveling on a budget, you could save the expense of chartering a yacht and hop on the ferry for a memorable sunset cruise for under $2 a head.
Balboa Pier
Built in 1906 on the Balboa Peninsula, the Balboa Pier is a lovely palm-tree-lined pier with iconic restaurants and the historic Balboa Pavilion. It has a calmer and more romantic atmosphere than the larger Newport Beach Pier, making it a popular destination for sunset strolls along the water.
Balboa Pier also has one of Orange County’s most iconic culinary destinations, a 1940s-style diner called Ruby’s Diner.
Pelican Hill Golf Club
Pelican Hill is a five-star luxury resort and golf club with two 18-hole golf courses designed by renowned architect Tom Fazio. One golf course is located on the south side of Pelican Hill’s massive grounds, and the other occupies the northern end.
Both courses are immaculately green, landscaped with local shrubbery and trees, and designed to accentuate the views of the surrounding ocean. Even if you’re not a golfer, the grounds themselves are a reason to visit, not to mention the delicious outdoor Pelican Grill for post-game meals.
Catalina Island
If you didn’t know any better, you could easily confuse Catalina Island with a Greek island. Catalina Island is a large, mountainous resort island and one of California’s most prized destinations.
It has two different towns, Two Harbors to the north and Avalon to the south. Both towns offer luxury resorts, palm tree-lined streets, and immaculate beaches. Whether you enjoy hiking, wildlife, swimming, or relaxing, Catalina Island is a must.
You can catch the hour-long ferry to Catalina Island from Long Beach or Dana Point, both quick drives from Newport Beach.
Orange County Museum of Art
Proudly founded by a group of women in 1962, the Orange County Museum of Art is as sophisticated and impressive as any big city museum. Located in the neighboring town of Santa Ana, the Orange County Museum of Art houses over 4500 pieces of art from local and foreign artists.
There are permanent exhibitions that showcase early 20th-century local artists as well as temporary art exhibits that run the gamut of artistic mediums, from paintings to sculptures.
Sunset Cruises and Romantic Gondola Rides
The best way to experience a sunset is aboard an ocean cruise. Newport Beach has yacht, speed boat, and sailboat cruises to get the best views of the ocean and coastline during golden hour.
If chartering a boat is too expensive, there are sunset gondola rides through the canals. It may not be Venice, but it’s the next best thing! The gondola drivers will even serenade your sunset ride, and you can bring a bottle of wine along for utmost authenticity.
Newport Beach Vineyards and Winery
California is world-famous for its vineyards. Sonoma and Napa Valley are the most popular wine regions, but Newport Beach has vineyards and wineries worth visiting.
The winery offers private tours and two-hour wine tastings for large groups. After two hours of sipping wine, you’ll be glad your tour includes a designated driver!
The Spa at Pelican Hill
As you know, Pelican Hill is one of Newport Beach’s finest luxury resorts, so you can expect its spa services to be the height of indulgence. The Spa at Pelican Hill offers countless ways to pamper yourself, with:
A beauty shop
Relaxation rooms
Massage lounges
A fitness center
Steam rooms
They offer a slew of spa packages, including services like facials, saltwater baths, physical therapy, personal training, skin peels, and every type of massage technique imaginable.
Final Thoughts
Newport Beach is a historical beach town that started as a business port, undergoing a glamorous transformation into one of Southern California’s most beloved tourist destinations.
After exploring the above list of the 25 best things to do in Newport Beach, you have all the information and inspiration you need to plan an amazing trip to this enchanting coastal paradise.
Thanksgiving, and therefore, Friendsgiving is right around the corner. Time to spend time with your chosen family! But don’t settle for your run-of-the-mill potluck this year. You’ve got a great friend group and you all deserve a pre-holiday celebration just as special as you are. Listed below are our 9 favorite ways to elevate your Friendsgiving at an AvantStay vacation rental.
1. Room for the whole crew
Delmont – Smoky Mountains, TN
Easily turn one meal into one weekend with plenty of space for your group to spread out and let the food coma settle in. Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, Delmont is a 20-guest stay with four floors, a hot tub, pool, game room, yard space, two spacious living rooms, and two dining tables – perfect for a proper feasting sesh.
2. Pump up the vibe with pre-feast activities
Clove – Hudson Valley, NY
Get everyone excited with festive pre-feast activities at one of our homes in Hudson Valley! Clove is just a short drive away from all the great fall activities like visiting pumpkin patches, leaf peeping, and roasting marshmallows. Hot tip: get ready to make cider or apple pie from fresh apples – this home is close to multiple local apple orchards.
3. You don’t have to cook
Pyramid – Sedona, AZ
Not interested in cooking? No problem. Have us coordinate a private chef for you and yours directly from our app! We recommend a stay at Pyramid in Sedona where you can soak up the views while you soak in the hot tub. With ample seating for everyone, you can easily watch a culinary artist in their element without ever having to worry about being in the way.
4. Enjoy plenty of activities for the group
Bay Breeze – Newport Beach
It doesn’t have to be all about the food. Our homes have tons to do for those in your group that just can’t sit still. For a fun-filled stay, try Friendsgiving weekend at Bay Breeze in Newport Beach, CA. This 10-guest bayside home has multiple dining areas, a fully-stocked kitchen, a basketball court, paddleboards, a fire pit, and a stocked game area.
5. Say “au revoir” to post-meal cleaning
Homewood – Lake Tahoe, CA
Take the pressure out of hosting (and cleaning) with a stay at Homewood in Lake Tahoe – the ideal stay for a nature lover who just can’t get enough of that fresh mountain air. We’ve got you covered pre- and mid-stay – with fully-stocked kitchens and the option to book a mid-stay cleaning, we’re here to make your Friendsgiving as worry-free as can be.
6. Experience a change in scenery
Belmont – San Diego, CA
Soak in new views surrounded by your favorite company. Located right on the water, Belmont is a San Diego stay with all the ocean views you can handle. Experience the perfect blend of indoor/outdoor living with an extra spacious dining and living room, a grill on the balcony, and a chance to show off your mixologist skills with a cocktail and “cheers” to this extra-dreamy view.
7. Cook like a proper chef in our gourmet kitchens
Take advantage of an array of spacious, gourmet kitchens in Coachella Valley. This sprawling estate comes complete with an outdoor kitchen, pool, hot tub, ping pong table, equestrian barn, wet bar, paddle boards, kayaks, paddle boat, and a private lake surrounding the property.
8. Try Friendsgiving al fresco
Burgundy – Temecula, CA
Why not try an outdoor kitchen this year? Come to Burgundy where you can blend an indoor chef’s kitchen with the outdoor kitchen and a tasteful, locally sourced Temecula wine. After your meal, enjoy sunset cocktails under the gazebo or around the fireplace and toast to special moments shared with your favorite people. With this undeniably winning combo, you’ve just landed the Friendsgiving dream of the century.
9. Get an excuse to escape the city
Fiano – Sonoma, CA
We’re all looking for a reason, right? Try a stay at Fiano in Sonoma where you’ll enjoy large outdoor dining areas and a proper escape from the city hustle and bustle. Gather inside or out around these spacious dining areas with vineyard-esque decor. Keep the journey going with a short trip out into wine country for a new type of Friendsgiving adventure that your friends will talk about for years.
Tired of the same old routine for your corporate retreats? Ready to shake things up and take your team to new levels of productivity and relaxation? Look no further than AvantStay’s Polo Villas. Nestled in a serene neighborhood, our villas offer the perfect blend of luxury and functionality, ensuring your corporate retreat is a resounding success.
Elevate Your Experience
At the Polo Villas, we understand the importance of balancing work and play. That’s why we offer spacious accommodations equipped with everything you need for a productive and rejuvenating retreat. Say goodbye to cramped meeting rooms and hello to expansive living areas with ample space for brainstorming sessions and team-building exercises.
For Tight-Knit Teams
If your team thrives on intimacy and privacy, our Polo Villas homes are the perfect choice. Each villa features 5+ bedrooms, complete with en-suites and office spaces for maximum comfort and productivity. Whether you’re hashing out big ideas or simply unwinding after a long day of work, our villas provide the ideal environment for fostering team cohesion.
For Full-Suite Teams
For larger groups looking to make a statement, why not book the entire Polo Villas neighborhood? With 18 homes accommodating up to 100 guests, you’ll have exclusive access to pools, manicured backyards, and all the amenities you need for an unforgettable retreat. It’s the ultimate way to show your team how much you value their hard work and dedication.
For the Team That Deserves It
Experience ultimate luxury with our newest Polo Villas homes: The Reserve. Open to bookings as of April 1st, these modern marvels are designed to impress. Featuring bocce and pickleball courts, private pools, and more, The Reserve offers the perfect blend of sophistication and relaxation. Treat your team to an unforgettable experience they’ll be talking about for years to come.
Seize the Retreat
Ready to take your corporate retreat to the next level? Contact us today to book your retreat at thePolo Villas. With our expertly crafted accommodations and unparalleled amenities, your team is sure to leave feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead. Your ultimate corporate retreat awaits.
Even More to Offer
We have so much more to offer when it comes to extraordinary experiences. Check out these other blog posts where we dive into more of what makes AvantStay a cut above the rest:
Apart from its seamless group travel experience and a plentiful selection of luxury in-app upgrades, AvantStay homes are in primo locations—even more than just Coachella Valley. Click here to see all our destinations and we’ll see you soon!
Is it really a vacation if your favorites aren’t with you? Of course not, which is why we’re making it easier than ever to bring your pets along on your next trip. Only the best for your fur baby, so let us give you the rundown on how to find an AvantStay home that’s the perfect fit for both of you.
During Booking:
Our pet-friendly home collection makes it easy to search through all of our properties that accommodate animals. Or, if you’re perusing the entire AvantStay site, keep an eye out for the pet-friendly icon on each property page. This is the best place to find specific information on any pet-specific rules or fees that apply to an individual home.
Keep an eye out for one of these messages once you find a home you’d love to rent:
If you have a registered service or emotional support animal, you may request to bring your companion to any AvantStay property—just contact experience@avantstay.com to inquire. Read more.
During Stay:
Our homes feature a variety of perks—some with extensive outdoor areas, fenced-in yards, and locations close proximity to parks, dog beaches & hiking trails—as well as mid-stay cleaning service (which comes in handy for animals that shed). Your pet is going to LOVE you for this. Ready to book your pet-friendly stay? View all of our pet-friendly homes here.
Hey there, adventure-seekers and culture enthusiasts! If you’re yearning for a blend of picturesque landscapes, artsy vibes, and a side of culinary heaven, look no further than the charming haven of Asheville, North Carolina. Nestled cozily in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this city is bursting with an array of activities that’ll keep you grinning from ear to ear. So, grab your hiking boots, your appetite, and your sense of wonder as we dive into the top 21 things to do in Asheville.
1. Explore the Biltmore Estate: A Glimpse into Extravagance Let’s kick things off with a bit of opulence! The Biltmore Estate isn’t just a house; it’s practically a castle. With 250 rooms, sprawling gardens, and a history that reads like a novel, this place is the very definition of grandeur. It’s like stepping into a time machine and experiencing the glamour of the Gilded Age firsthand. Pro tip: Don’t forget to raise a glass at the winery—they make vino that would make Bacchus jealous!
2. Wander Through the River Arts District: Where Creativity Blooms Calling all art lovers! The River Arts District is your haven. Imagine strolling through streets adorned with vibrant murals, peeping into artist studios where creativity is contagious, and snagging one-of-a-kind masterpieces. You might even catch the artists at work, giving you an inside look at the magic behind the masterpiece.
3. Discover Downtown Asheville: Food, Shops, and Fun Downtown Asheville is like a treasure chest waiting to be opened. From quirky boutiques and art galleries to farm-to-table eateries that’ll have your taste buds dancing the tango, there’s something here for everyone. Pack Square Park is your perfect picnic spot, and the Grove Arcade is a slice of architectural beauty that’s easy on the eyes.
4. Hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains: Trails for All Adventurers Time to lace up those hiking boots and hit the trails! The Blue Ridge Mountains offer hikes for every skill level, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie who’s just getting started. Feel the crunch of leaves underfoot as you embark on the Appalachian Trail, or soak up the panoramic views from Craggy Gardens—it’s a bit like stepping into a nature-inspired painting.
5. Enjoy the Views from the Blue Ridge Parkway: A Scenic Symphony There’s scenic beauty, and then there’s the Blue Ridge Parkway. Picture this: meandering roads, lush forests, and breathtaking overlooks that’ll make your jaw drop. Seriously, every curve reveals a new postcard-worthy vista. Whether you’re snapping pics or simply soaking in the view, this is a road trip you won’t forget.
6. Indulge in Local Craft Breweries: Cheers to Craftiness! Beer lovers, rejoice! Asheville is practically the Narnia of craft beer. With a plethora of breweries offering everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, it’s a beer paradise. New Belgium, Highland Brewing—these names aren’t just brands; they’re legends. Take a brewery tour and let your taste buds dance to the tune of liquid gold.
7. Experience the Asheville Food Scene: Where Every Bite’s a Delight Calling all foodies and flavor aficionados! Asheville’s culinary scene is a whirlwind of deliciousness. From farm-to-table eateries that know how to treat a tomato, to eclectic international joints that’ll make your taste buds travel the world, your belly’s in for a treat. Don’t forget to sample the local delicacies—you might just discover your new favorite dish!
8. Visit the Folk Art Center: Where Art and Heritage Converge Ready to dive into the heart of Appalachian culture? The Folk Art Center is your ticket. It’s not just an art gallery; it’s a celebration of the region’s rich heritage. Get lost in the masterpieces, catch live craft demonstrations, and maybe even take home a piece of art that tells a story older than time itself.
9. Immerse Yourself in the Music Scene: Dance to the Beat Asheville’s music scene is like a magnet for soulful tunes and toe-tapping beats. From street performers with melodies that fill the air to iconic venues where the music flows like a river, you’ll find your groove here. Bluegrass, folk, indie—you name it, Asheville’s got it.
10. Explore the Botanical Gardens at Asheville: A Date with Nature Sometimes, all you need is a quiet escape with Mother Nature. The Botanical Gardens at Asheville are like a tranquil oasis, offering a break from the hustle and bustle. Stroll through themed gardens, discover native flora, and let the serenity of the surroundings wash over you.
11. Go on a Ghost Tour: Hauntingly Fun Adventures Ready for a bit of spook? Asheville’s haunted history will give you goosebumps in the most thrilling way. Join a guided ghost tour, explore eerie sites, and listen to spine-tingling stories that’ll have you clutching your friend’s arm. It’s like a history lesson with a supernatural twist!
12. Experience the Drum Circle at Pritchard Park: Beats and Bliss Friday night fever? Head to Pritchard Park for a dose of rhythmic euphoria! The drum circle here is a gathering of spirits, where the rhythm takes over and your feet might just start dancing on their own. Whether you’re banging a drum or swaying to the beat, it’s all about community, connection, and some seriously good vibes.
13. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Soar Like a Bird Ready to see Asheville from a whole new angle? Get ready to take flight in a hot air balloon! Imagine drifting above the treetops, feeling the wind in your hair, and marveling at the sweeping vistas below. It’s a bucket-list-worthy experience that’ll leave you feeling like a modern-day explorer.
14. Visit the Thomas Wolfe Memorial: Literary Time Travel Bookworms, this one’s for you! The Thomas Wolfe Memorial is like stepping into the pages of a novel. Explore the childhood home of the literary legend himself, feel the inspiration that lingered in every corner, and immerse yourself in the world that shaped his stories. It’s like a time capsule of words and wonder.
15. Go Ziplining through the Forests: Adventure Awaits Above Ready to unleash your inner Tarzan (or Jane)? Ziplining through Asheville’s forests is your chance! Feel the rush of wind as you zoom through the treetops, soaking in panoramic views that are anything but ordinary. It’s like a roller coaster through nature—with a dash of adrenaline and a sprinkle of awe.
16. Attend a Local Festival or Event: Celebrate the Spirit Asheville loves a good party, and there’s a festival for every occasion! From music festivals that’ll have you grooving to craft fairs that’ll make your inner DIY-enthusiast rejoice, these events are like the city’s heartbeat. Don’t just visit Asheville; join in the festivities and become a part of its colorful tapestry.
17. Relax at the Asheville Salt Cave: Zen, the Asheville Way Need to unwind? The Asheville Salt Cave is your personal oasis of tranquility. Imagine lounging in a cave lined with salt, surrounded by calming vibes that soothe your soul. It’s like a hug from the earth itself, a chance to recharge your batteries in a space that’s as serene as it is rejuvenating.
18. Take a Guided Art Studio Tour: Where Imagination Takes Flight Ever wondered what goes on behind the canvas? Embark on a guided art studio tour and peel back the layers of creativity. Get up close and personal with artists at work, hear their stories, and maybe even find yourself inspired to pick up a brush. It’s like a backstage pass to the world of art.
19. Discover the North Carolina Arboretum: Nature’s Playground The North Carolina Arboretum is like a playground for nature enthusiasts. Wander through gardens that showcase flora from around the world, explore hiking trails that lead you deeper into the beauty of the outdoors, and take in outdoor installations that’ll have your artistic side swooning.
20. Go Tubing or Rafting on the French Broad River: Ride the Rapids Ready to make a splash? The French Broad River is your playground for water adventures. Whether you’re tubing lazily down the stream or tackling the rapids in a raft, you’re in for a wet and wild time. Get ready to paddle, laugh, and create memories that’ll have you grinning for years.
21. Marvel at the Sunsets from Sunset Mountain: Nature’s Canvas The view from Sunset Mountain is the ultimate masterpiece. Imagine the city and mountains bathed in hues of gold and pink—a scene so breathtaking, you might just forget to snap a pic. Soak it all in, and let the moment etch itself into your memory.
Your Asheville Adventure Awaits! Asheville is more than just a city; it’s a medley of experiences waiting to be savored. From grand estates to down-to-earth hikes, from artistic wonders to culinary delights, this place has it all.
And when you’re looking for the perfect place to rest your weary head after a day of exploring, consider AvantStay, one of the best options for vacation rentals in Asheville. So pack your curiosity, your appetite, and your sense of adventure, because Asheville is ready to show you the time of your life. Let’s go make memories!
Golden hour strolls, poolside lounging, salty air, and enough frozen drinks to keep your blender busy. Chase tan lines, beach days, or just need a break from the same four walls, this slice of South Florida paradise has everything you want in a warm-weather escape.
We’ve rounded up 7 of the best Fort Lauderdale Airbnbs that were made for spring break squads, summer chillers, and long weekends. From beachfront hideaways to Airbnbs with private pool oases, these homes are packed with the kind of amenities and vibes that make checking out feel optional.
So pack your flip-flops, grab your shades, and get ready—because the ultimate spring & summer escape starts right here!]
Let’s be real: some vacations are for exploring, and some are just for maxing out the chill meter. Gulfstream is for the latter. This sunny, open-air home feels like it was built with spring break in mind. Float in the pool, grill up lunch with your crew, and snap golden hour selfies from the patio. There’s a spot for everyone to relax, vibe, and repeat. Plus, with five bedrooms, it’s roomy enough for your whole squad — no sleeping on the couch (unless you want to).
Highlights:
Private waterfront with a dock (no fixed bridges)
Large pool, bubbling hot tub, BBQ grill, and outdoor lounge area
Fully equipped chef’s kitchen and spacious living setup
Large TV and luxe suites, and bathrooms
Near Las Olas Blvd and Fort Lauderdale Beach
Book This Home!
Chill days by the pool. Dinner parties by the grill. Waterfront mornings with iced lattes. This is your Fort Lauderdale glow-up.
Beach days, bubbly hot tub nights, and plenty of room for your whole crew? Las Olas Oasis has entered the chat. This dreamy spot brings together the best of both worlds—tucked in a quiet neighborhood but only minutes from the beach, downtown, and all the food and fun Fort Lauderdale is famous for. With both a main house and a guest house, your group gets the space to spread out and chill together.
Highlights:
Double hangout spots with plenty of space for your crew
Private backyard with hot tub, BBQ grill, and garden gazebo
Fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances
Just minutes from Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas Blvd
Close to nightlife, food spots, and fun spring break energy
Book This Home!
Private, stylish, and steps from the action—Las Olas Oasis is perfect for laid-back beach days and nights under the stars with your people.
Laid-back, sunny, and big on comfort—Charlie’s Place is exactly where you wanna be for the chill side of spring break. Named after a dog with legendary energy (we love you, Charlie!), this house is all about good times and good company. Giving you space to hang and a backyard to lounge in, you can enjoy late-night dips in the hot tub, afternoon naps under the sun, and enough space to actually relax after a day of beach hopping.
Highlights:
Private fenced yard and property
Two living rooms mean more space to chill or play
Outdoor patio with hot tub, BBQ grill, and al fresco dining setup
Backyard with a fire pit to gather around
Quick drive to Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Pompano Beach
Book This Home!
Spacious and homey, Charlie’s Place is made for families, friend groups, and anyone who wants a spring break that’s more sunshine and less chaos.
If sunshine, snacks, and sand are your holy trinity this spring break, Tidal is your best choice. A spot where you’ll start the day with iced coffee by the pool with zero regrets and call it a day by the backyard oasis where your chill vacation dreams fulfill your game-day squad goals. Palm trees swaying, the cornhole bags flying, and your friends arguing over who’s winning volleyball—all while the grill sizzles and the drinks stay cold.
Highlights:
Private pool with a volleyball net for water games and fun
Covered lounge area and al fresco dining setup
Fully equipped kitchen with a spice rack
Cornhole and other card & board games
Just a 10-minute drive to Fort Lauderdale Beach
Book This Home!
It’s a choose-your-own-adventure setup—play hard, chill harder, and enjoy your private slice of the Florida sunshine.
A perfect spring break means flip-flops, ocean sounds, and zero stress, and Sea Breeze is calling your name. Just steps—yes, literally steps—from Fort Lauderdale Beach, this breezy beach house has everything you need for max chill and sunny vibes. Wake up, grab your shades, and head straight across the street for sandy toes and salty air. Or, if staying home sounds more like your vacay, the private pool, loungers, and backyard games got you.
Highlights:
Right across the street from Fort Lauderdale Beach
Private pool with loungers, bocce ball, cornhole & a waterfall
Fire pit, BBQ grill & al fresco dining for evening hangouts
4 bikes are available for guests’ use
Quick drive to downtown, Las Olas, and the best spring break spots
Book This Home!
Beach access and backyard fun without choosing between the two. Sun, sand, snacks, and splash-ready vibes all in one spot.
Cue the pool floaties and sunscreen as Coral Ridge Getaway is where your squad levels up their spring break game. This stylish home is all about tropical vibes, poolside hangs, and fun around every corner. Whether you’re cannonballing into the pool or hitting the grill under the cabana, this place was built for unforgettable days and cozy nights. You’ve got sun, sand, and snacks at your fingertips.
Highlights:
Pool and hot tub with a waterfall feature and sun loungers
Outdoor lounge seating covered by a cabana
Game area with pool table & bar seating plus ping pong table in the garage
Full kitchen with Sub-Zero appliances & dining for the whole crew
Book This Home!
Whether you’re a beach bum, BBQ master, or sunset soaker, this Fort Lauderdale escape is built for serious and balanced chill.
Beach right across the street? Check. Infinity pool with ocean views? Double check. Beach Haven is the place that will make you feel like you’ve landed in your own private resort, minus the wristbands and crowds. It’s big, it’s breezy, and it’s perfect for your spring break or summer crew where there’s plenty of space to sprawl, chill, and connect—whether that’s over a movie night in the living room or a group dinner by the dining table.
Highlights:
Private infinity pool and hot tub with front-row ocean views
Outdoor dining area with BBQ grill and lounge chairs for sunset dinners
Two full guest suites with kitchenettes and private patios
Beach chairs, a wagon, and pool towels are available for beach use
Across the street from the beach, an easy drive to Miami or Hollywood
Book This Home!
It’s beachside bliss with a side of privacy. Whether you’re team pool or beach (or both!), Beach Haven brings the views and the vibes.
Your Flip-Flops Have Never Been Closer to Paradise
Sure, Miami gets the hype—but Fort Lauderdale? With its crystal-clear water, white-sand beaches, and iconic canals, this coastal city is basically made for sun-soaked adventures. Whether you’re a beach bum, boat lover, foodie, or shopaholic, there’s something for every vibe and every crew.
1. The Beaches? Chef’s Kiss.
From the calm waters to the action-packed shoreline at Fort Lauderdale Beach, the sand here is always sun-kissed, and the water stays that dreamy Caribbean blue. Need help choosing? Our Guide to the Best Fort Lauderdale Beaches breaks it down.
2. Boats, Breezes & the “Venice of America” Vibe
With over 165 miles of scenic canals, you can kayak, boat, paddleboard, or hop on the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi and see the city from a totally different angle. It’s basically a tropical Venice—minus the gondolas and plus a beach.
3. Pool Party Central (Your Airbnb Counts Too)
Beach days are indeed amazing, but don’t sleep on the pool scene! With sunny skies nearly every day, you’ll want to dip into one of these homes, and Cannonballs are actually encouraged, but stay safe!
4. Foodies + Fun = Las Olas Blvd
This vibrant strip is your go-to for brunches that turn into happy hour. From rooftop bars to sushi spots and Cuban cafés, it’s where flavor meets nightlife. Add in some boutique shopping and you’ve got your full day covered.
5. Nonstop Things to Do (No Really, 30 of Them)
Snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, jet skiing, gallery hopping, outdoor concerts—we’ve made a whole list because there’s that much to do. Check out our 30 Best Things To Do in Fort Lauderdale for more inspo.
Spring Break Mode: ON
Ready to make it official? Find the Fort Lauderdale homes that put you in vacay mode and book them today!
Hey there, wanderlust seekers! If you’re itching for an adventure, look no further than the captivating Oregon Coast. With its stunning landscapes, charming coastal towns, and endless outdoor activities, this place has something for everyone.
In this blog post, we’re going to take you on a journey through 9 must-do activities that will make your Oregon Coast experience truly unforgettable. Plus, we’ll let you in on a little secret: AvantStay has some of the best vacation rentals in the area, perfect for groups of all sizes looking to have an epic time together and make memories. Let’s dive in!
1. Soak in the Coastal Beauty
Let’s start our adventure with a bang! First stop: the stunning Cannon Beach. Get ready to have your breath taken away as you marvel at the iconic Haystack Rock rising majestically from the shore. Snap some envy-inducing photos, walk barefoot on the sandy beach, and let the salty breeze rejuvenate your soul.
Now, buckle up for a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. With its jaw-dropping ocean views and winding roads, this highway is a road-tripper’s dream come true. Roll down the windows, turn up the tunes, and let the rhythm of the waves guide you.
Source: Adventures of A+K
2. Discover Natural Wonders
Strap on your hiking boots because we’re heading to Ecola State Park. Prepare to be enchanted by lush forests, rugged cliffs, and sweeping vistas of the coastline. Choose from a variety of trails that cater to different fitness levels and soak in the beauty of this coastal gem. We recommend the iconic Clatsop Loop Trail, a 2.8-mile loop trail that is moderately challenging, dog-friendly, and open year-round. The views are unbeatable.
Next, let’s visit the Cape Meares Lighthouse. Climb to the top for panoramic views that will make your heart skip a beat. Its historic charm makes it a must-visit destination for lighthouse enthusiasts and history buffs.
Feeling adventurous? Time to check out Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area. Don’t worry, you won’t be fighting any demons here! Instead, you’ll witness Mother Nature’s artistry in the form of incredible rock formations. Explore the tide pools, watch the waves crash against the rocks, and let your imagination run wild.
Source: Oregon Is For Adventure
3. Enjoy Outdoor Activities
Ready to channel your inner marine biologist? Grab a bucket and go tide pooling! Some of the best locations include Yaquina Head in Newport, Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach, Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City, Cape Lookout State Park near Tillamook, and Harris Beach State Park in Brookings. These areas boast diverse marine ecosystems and are teeming with fascinating tide pool creatures waiting to be discovered.
Explore the intertidal zone and discover fascinating creatures like colorful sea stars, curious crabs, and squishy anemones. Just be sure to tread lightly and leave everything as you found it.
Crabbing or clamming, anyone? The Oregon Coast is famous for its delicious crustaceans and bivalves. Head to one of the coastal towns and try your hand at this coastal tradition. Not only will you have a blast, but you might also end up with a mouthwatering seafood feast!
For a more serene experience, hop on a kayak or paddleboard and explore the coast’s tranquil waterways. Nehalem Bay near Manzanita provides calm waters and opportunities to spot wildlife like seals. Siletz Bay in Lincoln City offers tranquility and scenic beauty, with a chance to witness bald eagles in flight. Whether exploring the channels of Alsea Bay in Waldport or enjoying the serenity of Netarts Bay near Tillamook, these coastal destinations provide an ideal backdrop for unforgettable paddleboarding and kayaking experiences.
Glide through hidden coves, navigate through sea caves, and feel at one with the ocean. Don’t be surprised if you spot some playful seals or curious dolphins along the way!
Source: Only In Your State
4. Immerse in Coastal Towns
Let’s take a break from nature and dive into the vibrant coastal towns that dot the Oregon Coast. Our first stop is Astoria, the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. Wander through its charming streets, admire the Victorian architecture, and indulge in some local brews at a quaint pub.
Next up, Newport! This artistic community is known for its picturesque harbor and bustling waterfront. Take a stroll along the marina, visit the renowned Oregon Coast Aquarium, and savor a fresh seafood meal while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Newport will leave you craving for more.
No trip to the Oregon Coast is complete without a visit to Seaside. Channel your inner child as you play carnival games on the bustling boardwalk, take a leisurely bike ride along the promenade, and dig your toes into the sandy beach. Oh, and don’t forget to sample some mouthwatering fish and chips while you’re there.
Source: Astoria Riverwalk Inn
5. Indulge in Culinary Delights
Speaking of sampling food, prepare your taste buds for a feast! Along the Oregon Coast, you’ll find an abundance of delightful culinary experiences. Treat yourself to the freshest locally caught seafood at renowned coastal restaurants. From succulent dungeness crab to melt-in-your-mouth halibut, your palate will thank you.
Take a break from the salty sea air and visit one of the coastal farmers markets. Here, you’ll find an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and friendly vendors. Stock up on juicy berries, crisp veggies, and homemade goodies to create your own delicious coastal picnic.
Don’t leave the Oregon Coast without satisfying your sweet tooth. When it comes to getting delicious saltwater taffy, one of the best spots is Bruce’s Candy Kitchen in Cannon Beach. Bruce’s Candy Kitchen has been an iconic destination for sweet treats since 1963 and offers a wide variety of mouthwatering taffy flavors. Step into their colorful store, watch as the taffy is made on-site, and indulge in this classic coastal delight. With its charming atmosphere and delectable selection, Bruce’s Candy Kitchen is a must-visit destination for saltwater taffy lovers. Treat yourself to a bag (or two) and savor the sugary goodness.
Source: Only In Your State
6. Uncover Hidden Gems
While the Oregon Coast offers well-known attractions, there are also hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Head off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known spots that offer unique experiences. Hunt for colorful agates along the shore, stumble upon secluded beaches where you can have a slice of paradise all to yourself, or venture into coastal forests and soak in the sights of all the ancient trees.
Source: Beach Connection
7. Experience Whale Watching
If you’re lucky enough to visit the Oregon Coast during whale migration season, prepare to be amazed. Gray whales make their journey along the coast, and you can catch glimpses of these magnificent creatures from various viewpoints. Grab your binoculars, find a cozy spot on a cliff, and witness the awe-inspiring sight of these gentle giants as they breach and spout.
Source: Statesman Journal
8. Enjoy a Coastal Bike Ride
Feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as you embark on a scenic bike ride along the coast. Many towns along the Oregon Coast offer bike rentals, so you can pedal your way through charming streets, beachside paths, and scenic trails. It’s a fantastic way to explore the area, enjoy the fresh coastal air, and soak in the natural beauty at your own pace.
Source: Travel+Leisure
9. Discover Maritime History
The Oregon Coast has a rich maritime history, and you can delve into it through various museums and historic sites. Visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum in Astoria to learn about the region’s maritime heritage and explore fascinating exhibits. Don’t miss the opportunity to tour the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, known as “Terrible Tilly,” perched on a rugged rock offshore.
From the awe-inspiring beauty of Cannon Beach to the hidden wonders of Devil’s Punchbowl, this place has truly stolen our hearts. Indulging in delicious seafood, discovering hidden gems, and immersing ourselves in the rich maritime history only added to the magic of this coastal paradise.
Source: Oregon Live
But before we wrap up, let’s not forget the cherry on top of your Oregon Coast experience: AvantStay vacation rentals. Staying in one of their luxurious properties amplifies the joy and comfort of your trip. With spacious accommodations and top-notch amenities, AvantStay ensures that your group has a memorable and relaxing stay.
So, don’t settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary. Choose AvantStay for your Oregon Coast adventure, and let them take care of the details while you focus on making unforgettable moments. The Oregon Coast is calling, and it’s time to answer the call!
Key West has a population under 30,000 and is only 4.2 square miles. But restaurant owners have managed to pack the island with restaurants ranging from casual backyard patios to upscale dining experiences.
Fresh seafood and delectable key lime pie are some of the iconic staples of many Key West restaurants. But you’ll get to enjoy many other fresh foods as well, and we’ll introduce you to 18 must-visit options in Key West, whether you’re a tourist or a lucky local.
1. Blue Heaven
Blue Heaven makes among the first mentions of most online forums about the best restaurants in Key West, and for a good reason. It offers a tropical, al fresco dining atmosphere, with cats and chickens roaming the property. You’ll find Blue Heaven in Bahama Village and can enjoy a range of Caribbean and American cuisine.
Some favorite dishes at Blue Heaven include Jamaican jerk chicken, fresh fish, scallops provencal, and blueberry pancakes. You’ll be glad Blue Heaven serves breakfast until 2:30 pm when you see the line that’s almost always present. The good news is that they allow dinner reservations.
2. Bagatelle
Bagatelle sits at the northern end of Key West’s legendary Duval Street in an 1800s building close to Mallory Square and is one of the classiest restaurants in town. Brunch is one of the biggest draws here, and their 9:00 am to 4:00 pm service every day makes them generous with the word “brunch.”
You can also enjoy dinner or one of Bagatelle’s two happy hours—the breakfast hangover and afternoon happy hour. If you’re unsure what to order from their wide-ranging American and Caribbean menu, start with their famous lobster mac and cheese made with fresh Caribbean spiny lobster.
3. Latitudes
If fine dining and ocean views are up your alley, make a bee-line to Latitudes. The restaurant sits within the Sunset Key Cottages complex, a 5-minute ferry ride from mainland Key West. They include the ferry ride for restaurant goers. Latitudes uses locally sourced ingredients and crafts its menu around food that’s in season.
Because of its popularity and the ferry ride, reservations are a must at Latitudes. We also recommend dressing the part—this isn’t the kind of restaurant to go to straight after sunbathing at the beach. Latitudes is famous for its seared sea scallops and unique selection of specialty cocktails.
4. Cuban Coffee Queen
It’s hard not to fall in love with Cuban Coffee Queen in you need a pick-me-up when exploring the Florida Keys. They’ve become so popular that they opened three locations across Key West, one on Front street and one near Mallory square. The day starts early at the no-frills Cuban Coffee Queen shop, with people lining up before opening to snag a cup of Joe.
In addition to their coffee, you can also order sandwiches, smoothies, and a Cuban breakfast (the best rice and beans of your life, anyone?). The bottom line is that the Cuban Coffee Queen is a great spot to experience a Key West breakfast without breaking the bank.
5. First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery
You’ll get a trip through aviation history eating at First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery, given that it’s the original home of Pan American World Airways. Nowadays, First Flight Island offers everything from garden canopy to tree top dining in the historic building where the first tickets sold out in 1927.
Don’t visit First Flight Island without starting at the bar, which incorporates an original aluminum airplane wing as its bar table. The food itself is delicious and classic American comfort food, and you’ll also find some twists on American favorites, such as fried ravioli. Calories don’t count when you’re eating out, right?
6. Santiago’s Bodega
Stepping inside Santiago’s Bodega will make you feel like you traveled from Key West to the heart of Spain. They’re famous for their wide selection of shareable tapas. In classic tapas style, the portions are small plates since the idea is to try lots of dishes.
Santiago’s Bodega offers a tapas-style brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, where you can fill up your plates with some of their most popular dishes. Griddle cakes, sweet broccolini, and peel-and-eat shrimp are some of the many items you’ll find on their brunch menu.
7. Cafe Marquesa Key West
Cafe Marquesa proudly boasts that it’s one of the highest-rated restaurants in Key West, and we have to agree. There are only 50 seats in this restaurant’s dining room, so you might have to wait in line. But once you snag a spot, you’ll enjoy a range of fresh seafood, meat, and salad options. You can top it all off with some homemade bread and dessert.
Since Cafe Marequea uses seasonal food, its menu is constantly changing. However, you can head to their cozy bar, where you can be sure to find your favorite drinks they make on the sport.
8. Kermit’s Cafe
Kermit’s Cafe sits in the historic seaport area, and they’re a great choice if you’re looking for breakfast or a light lunch. If you’re trying to keep it healthy, we recommend the Kermit Salad, complete with hearts of palm. They also serve a long list of sandwiches and wraps.
Although you can purchase food at Kermit’s Cafe, they’re most famous for their key lime pie. With so much competition in the key lime space in Key West, Kermit’s stands out because they sell frozen key lime pie on a stick. Of course, you can also order a traditional piece of key lime pie and enjoy it inside their key lime-colored cottage.
9. Hot Tin Roof
Hot Tin Roof is one of the most unique Key West restaurants because their entrees incorporate conch-fusion, “Floribbean” flair—a mix of Floridian and Caribbean cuisine. It’s best to make a reservation at Hot Tin Roof, although you might get lucky and snag a seat without one, watching the sunset over the harbor as you dine on Chef Scott Maurer’s latest dish concoctions.
If you’re at Hot Tin Roof for breakfast, we recommend their Noble Benedict. It’s a twist on the traditional egg benedict, complete with a crab cake and key lime hollandaise sauce.
10. Amigos Tortilla Bar
There’s no shortage of Cuban influences, Cuban food, and Cuban sandwiches in Key West. But if you’re craving some Mexican cuisine, there’s no better place to visit than Amigos Tortilla Bar. You can order your favorite Mexican dishes like tacos, quesadillas, guacamole, and more.
Amigos Tortilla Bar makes all of their corn tortillas by hand, and they use only the freshest ingredients and locally-caught seafood. What makes Amigos Tortilla Bar stand out from any other Mexican restaurant you’ve likely been to is that they make square tacos. The purpose? So more ingredients go into your mouth instead of on your plate.
11. La Grignote
La Grignote is a French-style eatery in Key West that’s happily off-the-beaten tourist path while still claiming historic Duval Street as its home. They’re open for breakfast and lunch, and offer seating on a first come, first served basis.
On the menu are classic French dishes like granola with fruit or French toast. And, of course, you can get your fill of French croissants. But if you want to spice things up, try their lobster benedict or quiche Lorraine You can also stop at La Grignote for dessert, where their key lime pie gives any of the French pastries a run for their money.
12. Conch Republic Seafood Restaurant
Key West is called the “Conch Republic” for a reason: on almost every street downtown souvenir shops and vendors have conch shells for sale most of which come from local restaurants harvesting them for an array of classic Key West-style dishes. What makes the Conch Republic unique is that this restaurant sits in a former fish house and ice plant for shipping fresh seafood around the country.
Befitting its roots, the Conch Republic has a local, laid-back vibe and is one of the best restaurants in Key West for no-frills, fresh seafood. But we’d recommend sticking with what they’re known for—conch, so start with the conch fritters or cracked conch.
13. Bo’s Fish Wagon
Calling all seafood and food truck lovers! Bo’s Fish Wagon offers an outstanding selection of seafood dished up with local flair that you can grab in a hurry whether you’re biking to the beach or bar hopping late at night. Alternatively, sit down for a spell at this open-air eatery and bask in its funky Key West history including an
eclectic array of old license plates and stickers on the walls. It’s hard to go wrong with anything on the menu, but Bo’s is most famous for its fried grouper sandwich which is Conch Republic classic especially with cole slaw on the side. The fried shrimp and fried soft shell crabs are legendary as well, and Bo’s also doesn’t display calorie counts on its menu so you can leave your guilt at the hotel (or home).
14. Salute! On the Beach
Salute! On the Beach is the only actual “beach-front” restaurant in Key West, sitting directly on the sand at Higgs Beach near the southern end of Duval Street. And it’s worth every step or bike pedal it takes to get there. It’s an excellent place to run up to for a drink, smoothie, or lunch between laying out in the sun or floating in Key West’s aquamarine waters.
You can expect al fresco Italian fare from Salute! with some Caribbean flair along with a healthy mix of both Key West locals and visitors. Salute! is also run by the same management team as Blue Heaven, so whether you’re craving a salad, seafood, or fresh bread, this place will have your tastebuds covered.
15. A&B Lobster House
A&B Lobster House is a Key West icon and famous for its ocean view balconies. They’ve been in business for over 70 years and have a long list of people they’ve had to privilege to serve, including dozens of well-known captains and celebrities (think Jimmy Buffett).
It’s hard to say that you’ve actually “experienced” A&B without trying one of their legendary lobster dishes. Their Florida Lobster Thermidor is one of the best in the U.S. But their cooks can also fire up a perfect filet mignon if you’re in the mood for meat. Dining at A&B is an extra memorable experience, given that you’ll get to watch the sunset.
16. Banana Cafe
Situated in a quieter area of Key West’s old town, Banana Cafe is a French Bistro that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a colorful décor and a laid-back café-style with indoor and outdoor seating.
Whether you’re in the mood for French classics like crepes or a simple bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich, you’ll leave Banana Cafe stuffed and satisfied. Vegetarians will appreciate that Banana Cafe also has several choices on its menu—something that can be harder to come by in a seafood-centered place like Key West.
17. Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen & Bar
If you’re craving good old fashioned American comfort food, Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen & Bar is a can’t miss Key West culinary destination especially if you’re driving. Located just off island, hat Matt’s is a distinctly local joint that’s also unique because you can bring them a fish you’ve caught that day, and they’ll prepare it for you.
Brunch is a big deal in Key West, and Matt’s is one of the strongest contenders. They offer a bottomless Sunday brunch from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm that includes all-you-can-drink mimosas and Bloody Mary’s. But if you aren’t in town on a Sunday, you can always head to their bar, where they have daily happy hours from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
18. Eaton Street Seafood Market
Have you ever eaten in a vintage gas station? After dining at the Eaton Street Seafood Market, you’ll officially be able to say that you have. The locals living in Key West frequent this market to buy fresh seafood and clams to make at home.
However, if you’re staying in Key West as a tourist, you can pick out seafood from the market, and they’ll cook it on the spot for you. Some excellent choices at Eaton Street Seafood include the shrimp salad sandwich and fried conch strip basket.
Conclusion
Whether you’re hunting for the best conch dish or key lime pie, the Key West restaurants we covered here have some of the best food that the island offers. Between the delicious food and laid-back island life, don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Key West so much that you end up moving there and calling yourself a proud local.
When your crew rolls deep, finding the right vacation rental can feel like searching for a unicorn. You need space, style, comfort, and plenty of beds.
Whether you’re planning a family reunion, corporate retreat, wedding party, or big group getaway, these vacation homes check every box and meet your needs, qualifications, or requirements.
We’ve rounded up 6 large vacation rentals that sleep 30 or more guests, complete with epic amenities, prime locations, and group-friendly layouts that make gathering effortless.
With two beautifully appointed homes on one expansive property, your group can enjoy both privacy and together time at Azalea Retreat. It’s the perfect setting for families, friends, or colleagues to enjoy a calm, connected stay.
Best Amenities:
Combined accommodations for up to 34 guests across 2 homes
Swimming pool, pickleball courts, private docks
Expansive decks with stunning lake views
✨ Why You’ll Love Azalea Retreat: A beautiful retreat designed to bring people together and offers a one-of-a-kind escape along Lake Norman’s peaceful shoreline.
Hear From Our Happy Guests:
“absolutely beautiful. This was a business trip with 10 leaders. the place was well appointed with everything we needed. plenty of private space but also gathering space to be together and collaborate; all in a stunning setting. although we were there for work I would also have a been comfortable taken my family to this location. such a big gorgeous log cabin.”
“We had a family reunion at the property this past weekend. The property was large enough to accomodate our family. It also had the amenities, charm and privacy to make it a magical weekend for our family. Thank you for a wonderful time!”
Best for mountaintop moments with your whole group
Set high above the Smoky Mountains, Grand View is the kind of home that makes jaws drop and cameras click. Designed for large groups who want plenty of space and plenty of wow, it offers cozy vibes with panoramic views.
Best Amenities:
Sleeps over 30 with 12 bedrooms and 30 beds
Private hot tub, movie theater, and game room
Decks with unbeatable mountain vistas
✨ Why You’ll Love Grand View: This is the ultimate mix of luxury and lodge life, made for big celebrations or a peaceful group escape.
Hear From Our Happy Guests:
“The house was so nice! We all had King beds and private bathrooms. Lots of common areas to hang out. Very well equipped and the view was stunning! Loved it!”
“This cabin was the perfect location for our retreat! Close to everything but also got that cabin feel! Rooms were the perfect size and kitchen came stocked with everything we needed! Great space for lots of company!”
Best for lakeside experience with resort-style amenities
Combining expansive accommodations with upscale features, Sunset Shores Resort offers a premier Lake Norman experience. Enjoy breathtaking lake views and direct water access, making it a perfect retreat for family gatherings or corporate events.
Best Amenities:
Accommodates up to 38 guests across 2 houses
Private pool and hot tub overlooking Lake Norman
Boat dock and kayaks are available
✨ Why You’ll Love Sunset Shores Resort: This home has ample space for everyone’s relaxation and entertainment. It’s the ultimate destination for lakeside adventures.
Hear From Our Happy Guests:
“Great place for large groups! Location was great, and communication was even better! Will definitely be back. Thank you!”
Amber Escape brings that cozy and spacious energy that everyone is looking for in a vacation home. With rustic interiors and a sprawling layout, this cabin makes it easy to gather, play, and unwind together with your large pack.
Best Amenities:
Sleeps 30 guests with multiple group lounging areas
Pool, game room, hot tub, and private yard
Private sauna and firepit available
✨ Why You’ll Love Amber Escape: Perfect for family reunions or retreats, this modern house is loaded with the comforts of home—multiplied by 30.
Hear From Our Happy Guests:
We booked for my fathers 84th birthday. We had family come from all over. So much better than a hotel. Tons of space. Beds were great, very comfortable. Kitchens were great for making big meals. Pool grill and indoor grill made things easy.
Best for upscale desert retreats near festival grounds
Set in a gated community in La Quinta, The Polo Villas are modern, luxury estates made for unforgettable group stays. If you’re planning a team retreat or attending an event at the nearby polo fields, this collection of homes is comfortable, convenient, and curated at every turn.
Proximity to Empire Polo Fields and local attractions
✨ Why You’ll Love The Polo Villas: A sleek and stylish home based in the desert which you can book as one or several for a customized group experience.\
Hear From Our Happy Guests:
“We had the most amazing stay! Everything was beautiful, clean, and instructions were super clear. We had a very pleasant experience communicating with the host which was super accommodating and are so happy we chose them for our trip -highly recommend! Looking forward to coming back soon.”
“We really enjoyed this place for my wife’s 40th birthday party. We rented the three side-by-side houses and couldn’t have been happier with the layout, amenities, supplies, and host interaction over the whole weekend. We will definitely be coming back to this rental.”
Pool, palm trees, and pure fun. Bravo is designed for entertaining big groups in the best way. Resort living with your favorite people; it is your ultimate launchpad for luxury and adventure in the desert.
Best Amenities:
Massive swimming pools, outdoor games, group dining
Hot tubs, firepits, pickleball courts, swimup bars
Minutes from Coachella venue, golf, and hiking
✨ Why You’ll Love Bravo: Bravo brings all the vibes for your next big bash. Every inch of this Indio retreat is crafted for comfort, connection, and celebration.
If you’re planning a milestone birthday, family reunion, corporate retreat, or just a giant group getaway, these vacation rentals that sleep 30 or more make it easy to relax, reconnect, and make memories—without splitting up the squad.
✨ Pro tip: These homes book fast for big groups. If you’ve got dates in mind, lock them in now before someone else grabs your dream stay!
Lake Arrowhead is one of the best vacation spots in the San Bernardino Mountains in Southern California—a stunning mountain range that is often referred to as the “Alps of Southern California.” At only an hour to an hour-and-a-half drive from Los Angeles, it’s an easy road trip to escape the city and get into the mountains.
Lake Arrowhead is home to a variety of outdoor activities. From taking a boat tour on the lake to hiking through the San Bernardino National Forest, a long weekend in Lake Arrowhead is perfect for families or even a romantic weekend getaway.
1. Lake Arrowhead Village
As one of the central attractions at Lake Arrowhead, Lake Arrowhead Village is on the southern shore of the lake. As you stroll the village, you get to take in the breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
Lake Arrowhead Village is a bustling downtown area filled with restaurants, shops, and live music. The village is home to the Arrowhead Center Stage Concert Hall which hosts the famous Lake Arrowhead Village Summer Concert Series.
Whatever season you visit, this town center is host to a variety of fun things to do all year-round! Our vacation rental, Lone Pine, offers quick access to the village and is the perfect place to stay if you don’t want to miss all the action.
Source: Discover Inland Empire
2. Skypark at Santa’s Village
Despite its name, Skypark at Santa’s Villageis a year-round adventure theme park. Just three miles from Lake Arrowhead, this facility has a long history of making many childhood memories. Since 1955 it has opened and closed its doors many times but in 2016 it reopened and is operating better than ever before.
Today, this theme park is home to a variety of outdoor activities like axe throwing, rock climbing, mountain biking, archery, and ziplining. Tickets are general admission and include available activities, rides, and entertainment.
While Skypark at Santa’s Village is open year-round, wintertime is the best time to visit. The village turns into a winter wonderland and features seasonal attractions like Ice skating. The park also glows with thousands of Christmas lights during the winter season.
3. McKenzie’s WaterSki School
McKenzie’s Water Ski Schoolis one of the best ways to hit the water and learn something new! If you ever wanted to learn how to water ski, wakeboard, or kneeboard, your getaway to Lake Arrowhead is the perfect place! Don’t worry if you’re new to these sports—the instructors at the school are highly trained and have the experience needed to teach you how to get up and ski on your own in no time.
4. Rim of the World Scenic Byway
Lake Arrowhead is one of the many stops along the Rim of the World Scenic Byway. This 110-mile route follows the rim of the San Bernardino Mountains starting from Cahon Pass and winding all the way to the San Gorgonio Mountain.
There are a variety of noticeable stops along the highway including Silverwood Lake, Big Bear Lake, and The Mountain History Museum. Big Bear is a popular winter destination as it is home to Big Bear Mountain Resort which offers some of the best skiing in Southern California.
The Mountain History Museum is home to the entire history of the mountainous region. This museum is a great stop along the drive to stretch your legs and enjoy the history of Southern California.
5. Lollipop Park
Lollipop Park is a lakefront amusement park that features a plethora of attractions for all ages. The top attractions here are the carousel, go-kart track, food concessions, spinning teacups, a candy store, and a mini golf course. This is the perfect place to visit for the whole family!
6. The Tudor House
The Tudor House is one of the many historical locations in Lake Arrowhead. Its history dates back to the 1920s, before the Great Depression. It is mostly known for its prohibition-era entertainment and rumored mobster management.
Since the 1950s, The Tudor House has been a legal source of entertainment and a popular performance space. It is host to a variety of live music events throughout the year ranging in every genre.
It is also host to a variety of events such as Sunday Brunch and a monthly Mystery Dinner Theatre. The property is also available to be reserved for private special events including workshops and retreats.
7. Heaps Peak Arboretum
Heaps Peak Arboretumis a beautiful day adventure within the San Bernardino National Forest. The Sequoia Trail circles the arboretum and offers a variety of interpretive information about the surrounding flora and fauna along the trail. With about 30 acres to adventure, this is the perfect adventure for your family to reconnect with nature.
8. Wildhaven Ranch
Wildhaven Ranch is a wildlife sanctuary home to a number of endangered and indigenous species. At this ranch, you can meet various animals, go on guided tours, participate in fun programs, and do a variety of other things. They are committed to preserving the wildlife indigenous to the San Bernardino Mountains. This is not a zoo and does require reservations in order to visit.
9. Lake Gregory Regional Park
Lake Gregory Regional Parkis just a 10-minute drive from Lake Arrowhead. This park offers a variety of entertainment and adventure that is perfect for the whole family. Lake Gregory in Crestline, California is the best place for all kinds of outdoor activities. You can fish, go boating or kayaking, or even hike if you don’t want to hit the water. If you don’t want to bring your boat or water equipment into the mountains, Lake Gregory has lake equipment rentals available.
Looking to stay near Lake Gregory? Our modern, industrial charm vacation rental, The Matterhorn Manor, is just a short drive from Lake Gregory and all its popular attractions.
10. Snow Valley Mountain Resort
Winter season is the best time to visit the Snow Valley Mountain Resort for skiing and snowboarding. They have something for everyone! From long intermediate trails to the best beginner terrain to the sledding area, the whole family will find something to do. Even if you are just starting to learn how to ski or snowboard or want to improve your skills, Snow Valley has an award-winning learning center that offers lessons for all skill levels and ages.
The resort is open during the summer months for mountain biking, hiking, and other special events.
11. Lake Arrowhead Queen Boat Tour
See all the beauty Lake Arrowhead has to offer on the Lake Arrowhead Queen Boat Tour. This charming tour departs daily from Lake Arrowhead Village and is an hour-long tour. As you cruise along the shoreline, take in the beautiful views of the lakefront mansions while you learn about the geologic history of the lake and the native cultures that call the lake home.
You can purchase tickets at Leroy’s Boardshop across from the boat landing dock. Tours happen throughout the day but the best times to go are early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
12. Strawberry Peak
Strawberry Peak is one of the most iconic peaks in the San Gabriel Mountains in Southern California. If you want to spend the day on the hiking trails and enjoy the mountains, driving the 2 hours from Lake Arrowhead makes it the perfect day trip.
The Strawberry Peak stands 6,164 feet high and gets its name from the number of strawberries that grow around the peak. This hike may be difficult for beginners or young children but the views make it worth it once you get to the top.
Looking for the Perfect Lake Arrowhead Cabin?
Book one of our cabin rentals in Lake Arrowhead. Take in stunning lake and mountain views from our 4-bedroomLake Pointhome. Experience modern mountain living at our lakeside rental, Howlite. No matter where you would like to stay on the lake, you will find some of the most relaxing and stunning views.
Start Planning Your Next Lake Arrowhead Getaway
Are you ready to embark on your next Southern California mountain adventure? With so many outdoor activities during the summer and winter, Lake Arrowhead is the perfect year-round destination. It is the perfect weekend escape from large cities like Los Angeles. Get away from all the hustle and bustle and start booking your stay in Lake Arrowhead.
The AvantStay Awards: Celebrating Our First-Ever Winners
For the first time ever, we asked our travel community to vote for their favorite AvantStay homes across 20 unique categories. After thousands of votes and weeks of anticipation, the results are in!
With over 50,000 votes counted across all categories, these homes emerged as the ultimate fan favorites. From stunning mountain retreats to dreamy coastal escapes, here are the best of the best from the very first AvantStay Awards.
These homes aren’t just guest favorites—they represent the best of AvantStay, from standout design to unbeatable locations. Keep scrolling to see which stays took home the top spots.
Best Desert Home: Villa Valentina, Palm Springs, CA
A true desert oasis,Villa Valentinablends mid-century modern charm with resort-style amenities. With a sun-soaked pool, mountain views, and stylish interiors, it’s no surprise this home won over voters. 734 votes.
Best Wine Country Home: Belleza, Sonoma, CA
Set in the heart of Sonoma’s rolling vineyards, Belleza is the ultimate wine country retreat. Featuring a private pool, an outdoor fireplace, and plenty of space to sip and unwind, this home embodies laid-back luxury. 555 votes.
Best Coastal Home: Endless Summer, San Diego, CA
With its beachfront location and breezy interiors, Endless Summerlives up to its name. Wake up to ocean views, spend the day lounging in the yard, and enjoy direct access to San Diego’s golden sands. 785 votes.
Best Urban Home: The Gilmore Hotel, Nashville, TN
A boutique-style retreat in the heart of 12 South, The Gilmore Hotelis the perfect mix of historic charm and modern comfort. This stylish stay is ideal for cozy getaways and those looking to experience the luxe side of Nashville. 570 votes.
Best Pool: Casa Palmera, Coachella Valley, CA
Palm trees, poolside cabanas, and a swim-up bar—Casa Palmeradelivers serious resort vibes. Whether you’re floating under the sun or enjoying the outdoor firepit, this Coachella Valley escape is a slice of paradise. 806 votes.
Best View: Angels Landing, Whidbey Island
Perched right by the water, Angels Landing offers panoramic views of the surrounding beauty. With floor-to-ceiling windows and an expansive deck, every moment here comes with a breathtaking backdrop. 807 votes.
Best Lake House: Lakeview, Lake Tahoe, CA
As the name suggests, Lakeview boasts some of the best waterfront scenery in Lake Tahoe. With a private dock and a hot tub overlooking the lake, this cabin is the ultimate retreat for any season. 676 votes.
Most Unique Home: Lazy River Glamp-House, Central Oregon
This home takes glamping to a whole new level. Stylish and luxurious,Lazy River Glamp-House is an unforgettable stay for those who love the unexpected. 645 votes.
Best Event Venue: Buena Vista, Coachella Valley, CA
With sprawling vineyards as its backdrop, Buena Vistais made for milestone celebrations. Featuring a grand estate, a spacious lawn, and dreamy string-lit patios, it’s the ultimate setting for weddings, reunions, and retreats. 899 votes.
Most Relaxing Home: Riversong Lodge, Lake Tahoe, CA
Nestled in the woods with a private riverfront, Riversong Lodge is a nature lover’s dream. Cozy up by the fire, take a dip in the hot tub, and let the sounds of the water wash your worries away. 764 votes.
Best Mountain Home: Ute Lodge, Telluride, CO
Tucked into the Rockies, Ute Lodgeoffers ski-in, ski-out access and unbeatable mountain views. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or soaking in the hot tub, this cozy alpine retreat is a winter wonderland. 725 votes.
Best for Big Groups: Mesquite38, Coachella Valley, CA
With 8 bedrooms, a massive pool, and stylish communal spaces, Mesquite38 was built for group getaways. Whether it’s a family reunion or a bachelorette party, this home makes hosting effortless. 731 votes.
Best Interior Design: Paramount Place, Austin, TX
A modern masterpiece, Paramount Placestuns with sleek finishes, statement decor, and an open floor plan connecting four beautifully designed floors. Every detail is designed to impress, making it a standout for style lovers. 726 votes.
Best for Corporate Retreats: Blackhaus, Palm Springs, CA
A minimalist masterpiece with an ultra-modern design, Blackhaus blends work and play effortlessly. With the option for a full hotel buyout, it’s the ideal setting for team retreats where a pool is a must. 771 votes.
Best Sports Court: Fairway Oasis, Scottsdale, AZ
From a private pickleball court to a putting green, Fairway Oasis is a sports lover’s dream. Whether you’re perfecting your swing or playing a round of hoops, there’s no shortage of ways to stay active here. 615 votes.
Best for Romantic Getaways: A-Frame Retreat, Lake Arrowood
Secluded, stylish, and surrounded by nature, A-Frame Retreatis the definition of cozy romance. With a wood-burning fireplace and twinkling string lights, it’s the perfect place to escape with someone special. 879 votes.
Best for Bachelorettes: The Date Palm Estate, Coachella Valley, CA
Chic, spacious, and made for celebration, The Date Palm Estate is a bachelorette party paradise. With a glamorous pool, pink-accented decor, and plenty of room for the whole crew, this home is the spot for one last fling before the ring. 568 votes.
Best Game Room: Ever After, Orlando, FL
From arcade games to a pool table, Ever After has entertainment on lock. Tucked away in Davenport, this home is perfect for families and friend groups who love a little friendly competition. 767 votes.
Best Movie Theater: Pinot Point, Temecula, CA
Sip wine, sink into plush seating, and enjoy a cinematic experience at Pinot Point‘s private home theater. Located in the heart of wine country, this home is a dream for film buffs, pool enjoyers, and vino lovers alike. 748 votes.
Best Ski-in, Ski-out Home: Silver Sun, Park City, UT
Hit the slopes straight from your doorstep at Silver Sun. With direct access to Park City’s best trails, plus a luxe hot tub to unwind in after a long day, this mountain retreat is a skier’s paradise. 893 votes.
These homes aren’t just winners—they’re guest favorites that define the best of AvantStay. Ready to book your next award-worthy stay?Explore all of the winners here.
Short-term rental owners dream of having consistent bookings year-round. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. When demand begins to drop and bookings taper off, this is known as the dreaded low season. However, your occupancy doesn’t have to take a drastic hit during this time of year. With some strategic vacation rental marketing, you can easily avoid the low-season slump. Our nine tips will teach you how to get more bookings in low season and boost your rental income.
1. Know your market’s low season
The first step to improving your occupancy is to know your market’s seasonal trends. Identify your low, peak, and shoulder seasons. Low season (also known as slow or off-season) is the time of year when tourists head home and demand slows down. Peak or high season is when demand is high and guests are eager to book your vacation rental. Then there’s shoulder season, or the time between low and peak season when travelers are typically looking to enjoy fewer crowds and lower rates. These seasons vary by market, so make sure you understand your location’s seasonal trends to help with pricing (more on that later).
In addition, use local events and seasonal attractions to your advantage. There could be big events like festivals and conferences, or timely attractions like leaf peeping and whale watching that take place during your low season. Mention these in your vacation rental listing, use event hashtags on your social media posts, and send out a calendar of upcoming events to your email subscribers.
2. Know your previous low-season guest
Next, dig into who booked your vacation rental during previous low seasons. Was it mostly couples looking for a quiet weekend getaway? Or groups of friends in town for a food and wine festival? Use these demographics and interests to target similar audiences in your social media ads.
Also, reach out to previous guests to offer special low-season promos and friends and family discounts. This is a cheaper way to acquire new guests while staying top of mind to your previous customers who already know and love your home.
3. Strategically adjust your rates
Pricing your vacation rental for market and seasonal trends is one of the trickiest parts of running a short-term rental business. Typically, with lower demand comes lower rates. However, you don’t want to lower your rates so much that you lose money. Research similar homes in your area so you can accurately and competitively charge for bedroom count, amenities, views, proximity to local attractions, and other key features. Dynamic pricing tools, like AirDNA, can help with this. Or if you’d rather leave it to the experts, consider partnering with a vacation rental management company that can optimize for both revenue and occupancy.
4. Update and optimize your listing
Keep your vacation rental listing updated to reflect current seasons and events. This is your first touchpoint with potential guests, so entice them to book a stay with a relevant and fresh listing page. Here are some ways you can make updates for low season:
If your target guests are travelers coming to leaf peep, add pictures of your home surrounded by fall foliage
Update your title and description to promote upcoming events and include your home’s proximity to events, festivals, and attractions
Highlight your amenities, especially the ones that guests will love during low season
Showcase your home’s features that are perfect for holidays, like a modern kitchen and large dining area for Thanksgiving, or holiday lights and decorations during December
5. Test niche listing sites
Low season is a great time to test out new vacation rental marketing strategies. Leverage niche vacation rental listing sites to diversify your channel mix, increase your exposure, and drive higher nightly rates (these travelers are often willing to pay more for personalized service).Niche vacation rental booking sites offer accommodations to travelers with certain needs or interests. These could be vacation rentals for families with children or pets, luxury homes, or locations with a desired climate. Some popular niche listing sites include:
A great way to improve your overall occupancy is to target business travelers and remote workers. Luckily, these folks travel all year and aren’t tied to a specific season. Equip your home with full-coverage fast WiFi and dedicated, comfortable workspaces. Be sure to highlight these in your listing so your home will be featured in any filtered searches.
Another way to boost your weekday occupancy (during any season) is to accommodate work groups. At AvantStay, we help companies host their retreats and offsites at our homes, and even plan custom team-building itineraries. This means more consistent bookings, positive reviews, and income for our homeowners.
7. Offer popular amenities and experiential features
One of the easiest ways to make your vacation rental stand out is by providing top-of-the-line amenities. Amenities help create an exceptional guest experience, drive more positive reviews and repeat visitors, and ultimately increase your rental income. Invest in experiential features that can be used all year. Hot tubs, fire pits, and game rooms are fan favorites that can be enjoyed in any season.
8. Start a blog
Travelers appreciate recommendations and tips from a local. Showcase that local expertise with a vacation rental blog on your website. A blog is an easy way to increase your visibility on search engines through the use of relevant keywords. Think of topics like “Best Things To Do in Destin in Low Season,” “Hidden Low Season Gems of Charleston,” and “Top 11 Things To Do in Telluride Year-Round.”
Pair your market knowledge with your keyword research to write helpful content for potential guests. You can also repurpose your blog content to share on social media or in emails to past guests.
9. Work with an expert vacation rental manager
Overall, running a successful vacation rental business, regardless of season, requires a lot of dedication. If you’d rather not worry about seasonal trends and getting the right guests in at the right price and time, partner with a vacation rental manager.
Unlike traditional management companies that use simple on and off-season pricing, AvantStay uses a sophisticated dynamic pricing model that segments each year into between 75-150 pricing “seasons.” These seasons capture and optimize revenue based on occupancy, day of the week, travel patterns, holidays, market events, and more. Our team of dedicated pricing and revenue management specialists reviews each asset in our portfolio every week to ensure each home is priced to book, no matter the season.
Now more than ever, people are skeptical about investing in short-term rentals. With economic uncertainty and #airbnbust trending on Twitter, it’s no surprise that folks are wary of what’s to come in the short-term rental market this year. However, the future of the industry is still looking bright. We teamed up with our partner Revedy to set the record straight. Ready to discover the truth behind these trending misconceptions and why now is the time to finally jump on that vacation rental investment? Let’s dive in.
1. Occupancy is plummeting and #airbnbust is real
THE TRUTH: Short-term rental owners shouldn’t be quick to compare performance to 2021 and 2022 numbers, as a pent-up desire to travel after lockdowns drove record-high demand. Now that things are returning to “normal,” AirDNA is predicting an average occupancy of 56.4% for 2023, which is still significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels. At AvantStay, our forecasted occupancy rates for Q1 are trending at 32% higher than the competition.
Seasonal booking trends vary, but many markets saw extended peak seasons in 2022 with strong occupancy throughout shoulder seasons. Experts predict that this trend will continue in 2023 as people look to save money traveling during slower seasons.
2. Markets are oversaturated—it’s too late for new investors to get started
THE TRUTH: There’s no time like the present, especially when it comes to investing in short-term rentals. According to Revedy, institutional and large portfolio investors own 65% of multi-family assets, 3% of single-family assets for long-term rentals, and less than 1% of assets for short-term rentals. Now is the perfect opportunity for smaller investors to purchase ahead of the large-scale capital wave. Also, no more than 5% of the industry is what Revedy considers an investment-grade asset, so you can easily outperform the competition.
3. I’ll earn less with a premium asset
THE TRUTH: The demand for premium vacation rentals is on the rise as more high-income travelers are interested in exclusive accommodations. Vacation rentals that offer professionally designed spaces with top-tier amenities and experiences can charge higher ADRs than upscale and midscale rentals. Our experts are forecasting that AvantStay’s average ADRs will be 34.5% higher than our market cohorts for the remainder of Q1. Also, if you’re worried about the starting point of investing in short-term rentals, you can still find good cap rates at all different price points.
4. Market regulations make it too risky
THE TRUTH: There are still plenty of low-regulation markets. Plus, investing in a market with established and stable regulations can be a low-risk play. Revedy actively monitors market regulations so you can make informed decisions, while AvantStay’s permitting and tax professionals maintain good relationships with local jurisdictions so your investment is always compliant.
5. I’ll lose money with a management company—I’d rather do it myself
THE TRUTH: According to Revedy, investors that switch to professional management see a 25% increase in top-line revenue on average, while AvantStay delivers 35% more revenue than the broader market. Dynamic revenue management and multi-channel distribution are two of the biggest drivers of these great returns. First-time investors often waste a lot of time and money operating short-term rentals on their own. A management company will take care of everything from strategic pricing and marketing to permitting, interior design, and more.
When you work with Revedy and AvantStay, you get an end-to-end solution for buying and managing vacation rental homes. Revedy makes investing in short-term rentals seamless. Their experts understand every nuance of finding, acquiring, and operating vacation rentals and can help you make the best decision possible. They even have access to upcoming opportunities and off-market deals.
Once you have your vacation rental investment secured, leave the rest to AvantStay. We offer full-service vacation rental management programs to give you peace of mind. From financials to design to maintenance, we take care of your home as if it were our own. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management, and activates an elevated guest experience. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and relax—it’s that simple.
Oahu, the heart of Hawaii, isn’t just for honeymooners and surfers – it’s a fantastic playground for families! With its blend of cultural experiences, natural wonders, and, of course, those breathtaking beaches, it’s a destination that promises unforgettable memories for everyone, from toddlers to teens. If you’re planning an Oahu getaway with your kids, get ready for an adventure!
From exploring vibrant marine life to hiking through lush landscapes and building sandcastles on stunning beaches, your Hawaiian vacation is sure to be filled with “le’ale’a” – that sunny, blissful feeling of joy!
When planning your family getaway to Oahu, keep in mind a few key elements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. For accommodation, consider the benefits of vacation rentals, like Airbnbs, which often provide more space and amenities such as kitchens and laundry facilities – a real bonus when traveling with children.
Having your own transportation, like a rental car, will offer the most flexibility in exploring the island at your own pace. Don’t forget to prioritize sun protection for everyone, packing plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Staying hydrated is also crucial, so bring reusable water bottles.
Finally, encourage your family to embrace the spirit of “Aloha,” which embodies warmth, hospitality, and respect, enriching your experience of the islands.
Oahu’s beaches are legendary, and many are perfect for families with calm waters, shallow areas, and amenities. Here are some of the best:
Kailua Beach Park (Kailua)
Lanikai Beach (Kailua)
Ko Olina Lagoons (Kapolei)
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (Oahu’s South Shore)
North Shore Beaches (Winter months)
If you need more beach recommendations for swimming, snorkeling, & sun tanning, here are the top 5 best beaches in Oahu to go to!
1. Le’ale’a
3 Bedrooms | 8 Guests
Nestled in the heart of the lush Mākaha Valley, Le’ale’a is a bright and airy three-bedroom home that is your perfect launchpad for Oahu adventures. Think sandy beaches just minutes away and breathtaking trails practically begging to be explored. But the best part? You can soak in those incredible views right from the comfort of your home.
Kick back in the living room and sunlight streaming through the large windows where the Pacific stretches out before you. Gather around the dining table for family meals, and that patio? It’s your pure oasis bliss for fresh air and soaking in the stunning scenery of the Hawaiian Islands, with comfy bedrooms and bathrooms for everyone.
Relaxing, unwinding, and connecting with your loved ones in a truly special place. That’s Le’ale’a, and it’s waiting for you!
Key Amenities:
Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and tropical mountains
Fully equipped kitchen
Washer and dryer available
Comes with a high chair and pack-n-play
Relaxing patio
Easy access to nearby beaches for surfing and snorkeling
Escape to ‘Olu’olu, your Makaha Valley hideaway where good vibes and stunning scenery are always on tap! Just a quick hop from Oahu’s beautiful beaches, this modern Hawaiian retreat is your ticket to an unforgettable island adventure. Relax in the bright and airy living room after a day of exploring, maybe catching a movie or challenging your crew to a game. The open layout makes it easy to chat and laugh.
Whether you’re lounging, dining, or whipping up tasty treats in the fully equipped kitchen, or getting your daily dose of mountain magic as you sip your morning coffee with those incredible tropical views, this is your perfect home base for experiencing the best of Oahu.
With plenty of space for everyone to relax and recharge, plus, beach gear is ready to go in the garage, you can easily hit the sand!
Hello, sandcastles, and splashing in the waves! A slice of island paradise is just at Makaha Hideaway, on Oahu’s west side. Imagine your family unwinding in this stylish three-bedroom retreat, with the promise of sun-kissed beaches just a short drive away. Being so close to the clubhouse and pool also adds an extra layer of fun to your getaway.
Your lazy mornings can be spent on the patio, soaking in the majestic views of the tropical mountains that embrace the valley. Or sip your mid-day roast coffee while being amazed by the jaw-dropping views of the lush tropical mountains that hug the valley.
With everything you need for a memorable stay, Makaha Hideaway is your ideal launchpad for exploring Oahu’s beauty and creating lasting family memories.
Step into Mauna View and feel the stress melt away as you’re embraced by the beauty of Oahu’s Makaha Valley. Wake up to the gentle sunlight streaming through the windows, revealing breathtaking views of the lush, tropical mountains right outside your door. After a leisurely breakfast in the fully equipped kitchen – why not whip up some local fruit smoothies?
You and your family can then pile into the car for a quick ten-minute drive to the sun-kissed beaches, ready for a day of sandcastles and beach waves. Evenings are a treat as you gather around the dining table, sharing stories of your adventures while the majestic mountains provide a stunning backdrop.
Surround your loved ones with the island’s natural beauty and sink into the plush leather sofa for unwinding with a movie after a day in the sun.
Key Amenities:
Breathtaking panoramic window views
Big backyard with patio
Large TV with a reclining sofa
Dining area thoughtfully positioned to showcase the mountains
Tucked away in a quiet cul-de-sac, where breathtaking mountain and ocean views greet you from your oversized outdoor space. Makaha Villa is just a seven-minute drive to the inviting sands of Makaha Beach. Chic and airy design, bathed in natural light that highlights the stylish décor in every room, makes this home your sun-drenched Oahu escape.
The seamless flow from the living room to the gourmet kitchen, complete with modern appliances and barstool seating, makes it a joy to prepare and share meals with your family. Gather around the long dining table, bathed in sunlight through the large sliding doors, for laughter-filled moments. In your backyard lounge, the stunning vistas of the ocean and mountains merge, creating an idyllic setting for relaxation and unforgettable memories.
Experience the allure of Oahu in an upscale retreat designed for those seeking a touch of paradise in Makaha Villa.
Start your day in the lush Makaha Valley, sipping your morning coffee with stunning mountain views right from your own tropical oasis. At Cottage Nene, this dream comes to life, with your family enjoying the peaceful ambiance and fragrant tropical air of the surroundings. Just minutes from a 7-mile stretch of pristine, uncrowded beaches, you can easily combine the tranquility of the mountains with the beauty of Hawaii’s coastline.
Prepare fresh, local ingredients in the fully equipped kitchen, then step outside to enjoy a delightful al fresco meal surrounded by vibrant plants at the house like Birds of Paradise, pink ginger, and Manila Palms. And as the day winds down, gather with your loved ones to enjoy the warm trade winds and the beauty of Waianae’s coastline and mountains.
Cottage Nene offers a serene and rejuvenating Hawaiian escape, where it’s easy to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while feeling comfy inside.
Swaying palm trees and tropical breezes—welcome to Coconut Plantation, a stunning two-story condo on Oahu that is perfect for longer stays of 28 nights or more. Have your family settled into this spacious four-bedroom retreat where everyone can sleep in comfort. The primary suite is a true sanctuary, boasting a king bed, private balcony access, and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Step outside to enjoy two fantastic outdoor spaces – perfect for alfresco dining or sipping evening cocktails as the Hawaiian breeze whispers through the palms. With incredible community amenities like pools, jacuzzis, and easy access to beautiful beaches.
Not to mention being located near the Four Seasons Resort, Coconut Plantation offers a slice of paradise you’ll want to experience again and again.
Key Amenities:
Veranda with outdoor dining setup
Private balcony
Access to Four Seasons Resort:
Two community pools
Three jacuzzis
Barbecue areas
Two recreation centers.
Pet-friendly (with approval and fee)
Pack n’ play travel crib and high chair available
Two recreation centers within the development.
Parking for up to four cars (driveway and garage).
*Please note that this house is only available for stays of 28 nights or longer.
Beyond the allure of the sand and surf, Oahu offers a treasure trove of activities that will keep young minds engaged and energetic bodies moving. Here are some of our top picks:
Honolulu Zoo (Waikiki)
A classic for a reason! Kids will be thrilled to encounter animals from around the world, from playful primates to majestic big cats. The zoo is well-maintained and easy to navigate with strollers. Tip for Parents: Go early in the morning before it gets too hot!
Waikiki Aquarium
Dive into the underwater world of the Pacific! This aquarium showcases Hawaii’s unique marine life, including colorful reef fish, fascinating sea turtles, and even monk seals. It’s educational and captivating for all ages.
Polynesian Cultural Center (Laie)
Immerse your family in the rich cultures of Polynesia. Explore different island villages, watch captivating performances, and even learn to play traditional games. It’s a full day of fun and education. Don’t miss the canoe pageant and the spectacular evening show!
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
While it’s important to approach this site with sensitivity, the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center offers age-appropriate exhibits and films that can be a powerful learning experience for older children. The USS Arizona Memorial is a moving tribute.
Dole Plantation (Wahiawa)
All aboard the Pineapple Express train! Kids will love the train tour through the pineapple fields, navigating the giant maze, and indulging in a refreshing Dole Whip. It’s a sweet treat and a fun agricultural experience.
Sea Life Park Hawaii (Waimanalo)
Get up close and personal with marine animals! From dolphin encounters to penguin feedings and shark tanks, Sea Life Park offers interactive and exciting experiences.
Children’s Discovery Center (Honolulu)
Perfect for younger kids, this interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits that encourage learning through play. They can pretend to be a doctor, a firefighter, a shopkeeper, and more.
Hiking Adventures: Oahu boasts trails for all skill levels. Easy and rewarding hikes for families include the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail (stroller-friendly for part of it) with stunning coastal views, and the Manoa Falls Trail through a lush rainforest to a beautiful waterfall. Remember to bring water and wear appropriate footwear!
Oahu offers a magical blend of adventure and relaxation for families. So pack your bags, embrace the aloha spirit, and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure on the beautiful island of Oahu.
Key Takeaways:
Turtle House
Moana Vista
Le’ale’a
‘Olu’olu
Makaha Hideaway
Mauna View
Makaha Villa
Coconut Plantation
Book an Airbnb in Oahu today. Visit AvantStay for more of our Oahu destinations!
Grab your cowboy boots and head down south – it’s time for a trip to Austin! Whether it’s your first time in ATX or you’re a seasoned Texas traveler, my 24-hour guide has got all you need to get the full Tex-perience. As a newfound local, I can vouch that from the rivers, to the springs, to all the good food in between, Austin’s a great place to visit for any occasion – whether it be a bachelorette, an anniversary, or simply a weekend getaway. Get to readin’ and see why you’ve just found your next best vacation!
4:00 PM
Arrive in the afternoon at your AvantStay, Carousel. This condo is located in a high rise right by the Rainey Street Historic District. Rainey Street is a row of historic bungalow homes that’s become an absolute must-see spot within the last 20 years. Not too long ago, people used to actually live and party at these homes! Now, the once residential homes have been converted into bars and restaurants.
5:00 PM
Drop your luggage off and head straight to the pool. Depending on what time of the year you come, it’s more than likely above 80°F – so a cool-down session is well deserved. Take in the city views while you relax on any of the cozy seating options available on the rooftop. Bring a 12-pack with you; there’s a mini fridge in the pool’s club house for your drinking pleasure.
6:00 PM
If you need to get a bit of work done before your lounging begins, head inside to the clubhouse where you’ll find even more seating, speedy WiFi, a huge TV with surround sound, a wet bar, and a ping pong table. Pull the curtains open for great natural light and a gorgeous view of the Colorado River that runs through Austin.
8:00 PM
When it’s time to switch from work to play, head to any of the local bars or restaurants just a 3-minute walk away on Rainey Street. For drinks, I recommend Anthem, a Tex-Asian Pub with lovely luau decor and all the tiki vibes. For dinner, try Banger’s Sausage House. This spot has tons of outdoor seating and the best sausage I’ve ever had.
10:00 PM
If you’re eager to keep the night going, you can walk or take a 5-minute Uber to 6th Street where the real action is always happening. No itinerary needed here, just an open mind and willingness to get your Honky Tonk on. The best place on 6th for drinks is at Midnight Cowboy. Try snagging a reservation and get the El Fumado Pimiento. If it’s booked and busy, no worries. Live music, food trucks, and bustling energy can all be found throughout this iconic street. No matter where you end up, you’ll find a good time.
9:00 AM
Try to get a healthy amount of sleep so you can wake up and get your fitness on. The world’s your oyster here at Parish – so either partake in some outdoor yoga in the courtyard or stay cool inside and break a sweat in the gym, cycling rooms, or dedicated yoga space.
10:00 AM
You’ve got one big adventure-filled day in TX ahead of you! If you’re looking for a quick breakfast spot, walk outside the building and head to Royal Blue Grocery for $4 breakfast tacos, coffee, and more.
11:00 AM
Take a trip to Barton Springs Pool. Known by locals as the best place to cool down from the ATX heat, this man-made spring stays cool no matter what time of the year you visit. Bring a picnic blanket and water, but leave your seltzers at home! No alcohol is allowed at this spot.
1:00 PM
After a nice swim sesh, you deserve a drink and some good food. Rent some bikes from the Austin B-Cycle app and take the River Trail down to Cidercade. Drop your bikes off at the nearest bike station (your app can show you where) and go inside for some good old-fashioned arcade games and a taste of local Austin ciders. Not that I’d ever pick favorites, but their Dance Dance Revolution game is the best dose of nostalgia anyone could ask for.
3:00 PM
Finish your first 24 hours in Austin with a well-deserved Uber ride back to Parish. Give yourself a pat on the back – you just packed in all the best parts of ATX into one day, and that deserves a round of applause.
4:00 PM
Once you’re back at home-base (and are well hydrated again), let the afternoon fade into evening with another rooftop pool sesh. From exploring the great outdoors and crawling the bar scene, to getting your fitness on, you’ve checked all the boxes for a perfect vacation. Now, it’s time for some good ole’ R&R for the rest of your AvantStay with us.
Don’t feel like leaving after just two days? You don’t have to! Check out all of our other great Austin AvantStays here (or think ahead and book your stay for a few more days, instead ☺).
Whether you’re on vacation and cooking for everyone, hosting a potluck, or hiring a private chef, we have a gourmet kitchen equipped with all the tools you’ll need for a great meal. From baking enthusiasts to full-time foodies – we promise to bring a culinary experience so good you’ll never have to worry about leaving your hobbies at home again.
The Rejuvenator, Temecula
Get your R&R on by the pool while your private chef prepares the perfect meal inside this luxurious kitchen. With room for up to 13 guests, Pinot Point’s farmhouse kitchen comes with a Butler’s Pantry, two dishwashers, warming drawers, a pot filler, and an open layout perfect for cooks. Store your leftovers in the built-in fridge and freezer, and cheers to a meal well done by the firepit at this Temecula, CAoasis.
The Photographer, Coachella
Phone eats first at Villa Verbena – a Coachella Valley paradise. This stay comes complete with all the photogenic places to snap your food in multiple dining areas. Snap a pic of your paella on the island cooktop with thecanopy hood in the background, for extra drama. Head outside for a nature-filled shot with views of the San Jacinto mountains around you. Finish it off with a group shot – this home can fit up to 26 guests, so everyone’s invited!
The Jetsetter, Park City
Want to feel like you’re in Europe without the cross-Atlantic flight? Yes, chef! Feel like you’re cooking in Italy in this Mediterranean-style kitchen with a Viking stove, Viking refrigerator/ freezer, granite countertops, and all high-end appliances. Once you’re nice and stuffed, head to downtownPark City Mountain and get your ski on. Come back to Telemark Luxury Retreat and hit the hot tub after a day on the slopes.
The Nature Lover, Destin
Taste the rainbow at Monarch. Soak up some Vitamin D while ingesting the rest of your vitamins at this 20-person stay in Destin, FL. When you’re not basking in the glory of the two majestic kitchen islands, or using the outdoor kitchen, try serving up snacks at the swim-up bar.
The Home Body, Oregon Coast
Sugar, spice, and everything nice. Welcome to the oh-so-cozy Neahkahnie Hideaway, nestled along the Oregon Coast. What could be better than cozying up to the fireplace after baking your favorite banana bread and sipping on your favorite perfectly chilled sauvignon blanc? Oh wait, we know. Enjoying all of those things in this home’s secluded barrel hot tub, *chefs kiss.*
The Adventurer, Paso Robles
Mermaid’s one for those who like to stay active even on vacay. Spend days bouncing around from the themed pool to the volleyball court ‘til it’s time to come inside and play Dance Dance Revolution (where you’ll really work up a feast.) Whether you’re cooking with wine, or just drinking it, this 14-guest vacation home in Paso Robles has a kitchen for the whole crew: with an oversized main dining table, additional food prep sink, and lovely pastel-colored kitchen.
The Techie, Berkshires
Chester comes with a smart fridge because every group has that person who always has to have a screen in front of them. Located in the Berkshires, MA, this stay can fit up to 12 guests and has views so good, you won’t want to miss a second of them for a chef-sesh. Good thing you don’t have to – this kitchen comes with panoramic windows giving you all those mountain views around the clock.
The Organizer, Austin
Start your ovens. Ramsey is a potluck dreamspace in Austin, TX with room for up to 8 guests. Spread out in this large kitchen with granite countertops ideal for creating the ultimate feast after a day of activities. Not sure what to do in ATX? Check out our guide here.
The Thrill Seeker, Smoky Mountains
For two many cooks in the kitchen. This space has two kitchens (one on each floor), double appliances, a dual-level breakfast bar, and dining seating for 18 people. Like trying new things? Come to Pine Rise in the Smokies where you can cook in a different kitchen every day! Experience a little bit of everything on your National Park vacation and a little bit of everything in the kitchen.
The Sight-Seer, Austin
If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen! And we don’t just mean the Texas heat. Not only is this 11,000+ sq ft. home a sight to see on its own, but it’s right in the middle of downtown Austin, where you’ll easily experience all you want to while you’re crossing ATX off your bucket list. Paramount Place comes with a full kitchen, two partial kitchens, and so much more you’ll just have to see for yourself. Everything’s bigger in TX, right?
Still hungry? We don’t blame ya. Check out even more Gourmet Kitchensyou can treat yourself to on your next vacation.
Desert oasis. Party town. Festival hotspot. Tranquil sanctuary. Culinary destination. Palm Springs is all of these things and more. That’s why it’s an ideal destination when you and your crew need to press pause on the day-to-day and spend time recharging by the pool. Explore the best things to do in Palm Springs, and be sure to pack your sunscreen and a stylish pair of shades. Palm Springs is a mecca for sun worshippers or anyone longing to feel a few rays on their shoulders before tucking themselves away in a cabana with a colorful drink in hand.
The arid getaway’s aesthetic evokes the Hollywood glamour of yesteryear with its glassy mid-century modern houses and breathtaking Spanish villas with red Terracotta tile roofs tucked away in the hillsides.
This picturesque locale truly comes alive in the summer with festivals like Coachella and Stagecoach kicking its already vibrant party scene into overdrive. So don’t be surprised if you see many bachelorette parties in Palm Springs. Of course, if your vibe is more low-key, Palm Springs is the perfect place to spend time not doing much of anything besides relaxing by the pool with your favorite people.
Hotel El Cid by AvantStay
Adrenaline-pumping activities
1. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Catch a thrilling ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway in a glassed-in vessel that rises 2.5 miles straight up Chino Canyon in 10 minutes flat. Views from the top are astounding, and there are hiking trails, dining options, and a museum to visit.
2. Agua Caliente Casino
Gaming tables, live entertainment, and slot machines tempt adults at the Agua Caliente Casinos in both Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage. Profits support the Agua Caliente Band of the Cahuilla Indians, keeping their community and culture vibrant into the 21st century.
3. Coachella Music Festival
Attend the country’s largest music festival: Coachella. Held annually in Indio, a town about 30 minutes from Palm Springs, one pricey ticket gets you several days of top-rated musical entertainment for the young and young at heart – and the hungry. For festival pass holders, Outstanding In The Field sets a long table in the tranquil hideaway of the VIP Rose Garden. This intimate area allows you to take refuge (and a seat) at the festival while you mingle with other guests over a full-service, four-course, family-style meal, a cocktail, and some regional wine. Dinner is served around sunset. Tickets for this dinner are priced separately and seating is reserved.
4. Indian Canyons Trails
Hike at any of the groups of trails at Indian Canyons. Just nine miles south of town, these easy and well-marked hiking paths run along a stream bed and boast shade from the heat, thanks to giant palm trees. Tahquitz Canyon in particular is one of the most beautiful and culturally sensitive areas of the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation and is home to a spectacular, seasonal 60-foot waterfall, rock art, ancient irrigation systems, native wildlife, and plants. This Canyon is sacred to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
Source: Visit Greater Palm Springs
5. Bike Palm Springs
Put the pedal to the metal, or better yet, rent an electric bicycle at Bike Palm Springs. With flat terrain and multiple bike paths, Palm Springs is ideal for this mode of transportation. City maps, bike locks, and helmets come with an hourly rental cost.
6. Stagecoach Festival
Crazy about country music? You’ll want to attend Stagecoach Festival, the country’s largest country music festival, held over three days in April in Coachella Valley. Other festivals hosted here range from pedigree dog shows and polo matches to BBQ competitions and Cabazon Indian Pow-Wows.
7. BMW Performance Center
Take the wheel at the BMW Performance Center for a fun thing – and an unforgettable experience. This is a great way to sample several BMW vehicles. Take the wheel of a BMW X vehicle as you follow an instructor through a challenging off-road course. Then, head to the track and rotate between various BMW vehicles, driving each through tight corners and fast straightaways. Finally, buckle up in the passenger seat for a hot lap with an instructor as they drift and accelerate around the track.
8. Red Jeep Tours
Take a Red Jeep Tours open-air jeep ride for an engaging, entertaining, and educational journey with a highly-trained naturalist tour guide at the wheel.
Source: Palm Springs Life
Find your zen
9. Cholla Cactus Garden
Catch the sunrise from the Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree National Park, a major attraction located about 40 miles from Palm Springs. Take the quarter-mile trail to a 10-acre patch containing more than 20 varieties of cacti, with evocative names like Groundcherry and Cheesebush, and watch the desert sky come to life.
10. State Fare Bar and Kitchen
Savor sunsets at the lounge in The Ritz-Carlton’s State Fare Bar and Kitchen in nearby Rancho Mirage (just turn up Frank Sinatra Drive). Located on a bluff 700 feet above the valley, there is no better place to sip a cocktail and build your own pizza while the sky turns pink and purple in the distance.
11. Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory
Stargaze at the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory. This is a complimentary night-time activity that will thrill adults and kids alike. Located adjacent to the town’s public library, there’s a full-time astronomer onsite nightly.
12. Desert Hot Springs
Take the plunge into Desert Hot Springs. Thermal mineral waters have sprung up from the earth surrounding the San Andreas Fault for hundreds of years. Dozens of local resorts offer day passes to soak in the waters which are known to cure joint aches and arthritis, migraines, depression, and low energy.
Source: Visit Greater Palm Springs
Where to gawk
13. Palm Springs Celebrity Tours
Book a Celebrity Homes guided tour with Palm Springs Celebrity Tours and gawk at the residences of Cary Grant, Marilyn Monroe, Katherine Hepburn, Elvis, Sinatra, and Dean Martin from the comfort of a Land Rover. Guides will spill juicy details of the owners’ lives (and loves) here along the way.
14. Palm Springs Historical Society
The Palm Springs Historical Society provides a handful of well-priced, in-depth tours by foot or by bike, including the storied Las Palmas neighborhood to see where Judy Garland, Gene Autry, Lena Horne, Kirk Douglas, and Dinah Shores lived and played.
15. Palm Springs Walking Tour
Take a walking tour of Palm Springs. Download the GPSmyCity app on your phone and follow the map for sightseeing at its best. You’ll log about 4.5 miles and will see a lot in those three hours.
16. Palm Springs Art Museum
Get cultured at the Palm Springs Art Museum, whose collection includes 12,000 modern and contemporary works. It’s free on Thursdays, second Sundays, and for those under 18.
17. Architecture Tours
Be awed by an architecture tour. There are numerous local operators to choose from, including Palm Springs Mod Squad, and you can customize tours by your interest level, budget, and available time.
Source: Palm Springs Mod Squad
18. Sunnylands
Scope out Sunnylands, a 200-acre property built by Walter and Lenore Annenberg. Tour their historic estate, ride a shuttle around the extensive grounds, learn about native birds, and stroll through a garden whose colorful blooms were inspired by the couple’s Post-Impressionist art collection. Advance tickets are required.
19. Palm Springs Air Museum
Treat yourself to a visit at the Palm Springs Air Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of flyable aircraft from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, displayed in a hangar that lets you get up close and personal with the planes. Here, you’ll have access to exhibits, activities, air shows, and the opportunity to take a one-hour ride in one of four vintage airplanes, priced from $200 to $5,000.
Moorten Botanical Garden is a privately-owned arboretum created to share the beauty and extraordinary varieties of desert plants with visitors. The Moortens are desert plant specialists happy to invite you to their residence estate. There’s something of interest for everyone here, with glistening crystals, colorful rocks, ancient fossils, and pioneer and gold mining relics. Classic collections on display include more than 3,000 varieties of plants designed in concentrated habitats along a nature trail.
Source: The Horticult
22. The Shag Store
The Shag Store is an art gallery and retail space located in the Palm Springs Uptown Design District, dedicated exclusively to the artist Josh Agle Shag and his distinctive artistic style that draws on his sly sense of humor. The store offers prints, original art, merchandise, and unique products that capture the spirit of desert modernism.
23. Windmill Tour
The best place to catch a breeze may be on a Windmill Tour. These giant wind turbines are an iconic symbol as you arrive in the Coachella Valley. Take a self-driving windmill tour or off-road bike tour to explore the evolution of wind turbines on a private wind farm. The tour allows you to exit at each stop and guides you with a curated video.
Source: Palm Springs Windmill Tours
Best places to eat in Palm Springs
24. Johannes
Reserve your seat for dinner at Johannes. Named for its chef-owner, who hails from the Tyrolean Alps, this stylish downtown outpost is ideal for indulging in Austrian classics like wiener schnitzel or Jager beef steak.
25. Le Vallauris
Splurge at Le Vallauris on Tahquitz Canyon Way. Its terrace was constructed around a stand of mature shade trees to keep diners cool. Try the three-course prix fixe menu for $97 and peruse the options on the 22-page wine list. If you prefer to dine al fresco, the garden patio is perfectly romantic, situated among Lupe Ficus trees and the scent of the sweet desert air.
26. La Quinta Brewing Company Taproom
Quaff a cold one at La Quinta Brewing Company Taproom. This local microbrewery offers a dozen or so beers that rotate seasonally. Look for Poolside Blonde, Even Par, or Sundaze Session IPA. Go at Happy Hour most weekdays from 3-5 pm to enjoy $2 off per glass.
27. Eight4Nine Restaurant and Lounge
Eight4Nine Restaurant and Lounge is located in the fashionable Uptown Design District of Palm Springs and is open for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch. Dishes like the Five Spice Duck Confit with Jerusalem artichoke puree, port, and damson sauce and dessert of Brandini Toffee S’Mores Fondue with house-made marshmallow, locally-made Brandini toffee, Callebaut chocolate, graham crackers, and mixed berries are sure to get your mouth watering.
Source: Gay Desert Guide
Best spots to shop
28. Shopping For Her
From quirky independent boutiques to designer outlets, Palm Springs has an amazing variety of things to buy. Relax and stroll northbound on Indian Palms Street, then southbound on Palm Canyon Drive. Don’t miss the chance to scoop up a new warm-weather frock at Elizabeth & Prince, Revenge Boutique, Oooh La La consignments, and Blonde.
29. Shopping For Him
For him, try on the Wil Stiles men’s department, referred to as a “steroid boost in the sport of competitive dressing.” Mod-patterned, cotton short-sleeved shirts reminiscent of Piccadilly Circus sell for about $140.
30. Spa Treatments
Save your skin. The Palm Springs dry air and sunshine call for a stop at one of the dozens of day spas scattered throughout Palm Springs. Be sure to treat yourself to a skin tune-up. Peruse the selection of serious facials at Organic Glow Skin Studio, with treatments that range from $50-$100.
31. Palm Springs VillageFest
The Palm Springs VillageFest in Coachella Valley is the place to be on Thursday nights. This street fair features arts, crafts, food, and entertainment within the beautiful downtown Palm Springs
The Monkey Tree Hotel by AvantStay
Best golf courses in Palm Springs
32. Rancho Las Palmas Country Club
The golf course at Rancho Las Palmas Country Club requires membership, but if you like your bogey with a side of palm trees, lakes, rolling terrain, and views of the San Jacinto Mountains, you’ll want to sign up. These three 9-hole courses were designed by the best in the business. Call for tee times and get there early to enjoy a breakfast of Brioche French Toast or Tofu Scramble at the club’s onsite restaurant, BluEmber.
33. Nicklaus Tournament Golf Course
If you’re booked to stay at AvantStay’s Fowler rental in Coachella Valley, golf is just beyond this vibrant home. In fact, it overlooks the famous Nicklaus Tournament Golf Course and Santa Rosa mountains. You don’t have to be a member to play golf in this 2,000-acre golf and lifestyle community in La Quinta. You might even spot a few high-profile celebrities, PGA tour pros, and quite possibly a U.S. President. Many have enjoyed this golf course with 109 holes of championship golf on six legendary courses.
The Marley Hotel by AvantStay
If you’re in need of an exciting getaway in a warm, spirited city, Palm Springs is the perfect vacation spot for you. From highly-anticipated events like Coachella & the Stagecoach Festival to breathtaking gardens and sprawling golf courses, this place is sure to introduce you to something new. See for yourself by booking with one of AvantStay’s Palm Spring hotels.
Take the road less traveled this summer and stay at one of AvantStay’s cabinesque homes, guaranteed to satisfy that long-lost nostalgia you have for summer camp. Our collection of woodsy properties feature hot tubs under the stars, al fresco dining experiences, and rustic vibes that will take you back to the good ol’ days around the fire pit with your favorite people..
Tarly – Tahoe
Let’s start this round-up right. Meet Tarly, a cabin nestled deep in the pines of Lake Tahoe, CA. The best way to stay is with 7 of your favorite people hanging out in the jacuzzi under the pines. High wood beamed ceilings, a cozy fireplace, two large patios, and a grill with a view make it all even campier.
Chateau Syrah – Temecula
Meet Chateau Syrah. The whole crew gets to tag along to this cabin-shaped chateau, which sleeps up to 22 people. Spend days lounging by the pool, grilling out courtesy of the outdoor kitchen, or taking a short drive to Wilson Creek Winery. Finish the night off with a dip in the hot tub. Steamy!
Ute Lodge – Telluride
No cabin fever here. Meet Ute Lodge, a Colorado escape just minutes from the Telluride slopes that provides endless activities for you and your group no matter what sort of vacation you have in mind. Enjoy al fresco dinners on the expansive patio, stargazing from the fire pit, and soaking away any ski soreness in the jacuzzi.
Bighorn – Vail
Bighorn. Big house. Big views. Bighorn. You get the point. This secluded mountain home sleeps up to 12 guests and is ideally located for those looking to spend time at nearby attractions, including the Vail Ski Resort, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, and the Vail Farmers Market. A short drive from the resort, the abode’s bright and contemporary interior, along with two private units downstairs, create the perfect environment for a group who knows the beauty of spreading out after a long day on the slopes.
Klamath – Sunriver OR
Things just add up at Klamath.Come here for the unbeatable lakeside views, the best of outdoor living, and fire pit moments featuring aromatic pine. Find your bliss with a cocktail in the hot tub— an unbeatable combo. Whether you’re coming to Central Oregon for skiing, mountain biking, or hiking, this charming waterfront home provides the perfect (oversized) cabinesque retreat after a day of adventure in Bend.
Santo Cristo – Arch Cape, OR Coast
Start the group chat – you’re going to the Oregon Coast. Santo Cristo is a quiet retreat just 15 minutes south of Cannon Beach,where the old-growth forest meets the Pacific Ocean. This home gives all the cabin vibes with natural wood accents, contemporary furnishings, and encompassing views of the trees. If you’re lucky, you’ll spy whales migrating off-shore or witness massive storm waves rolling into Gull Rock.
Raven – Sullivans Island, Charleston, SC
The higher the decks, the better the stay. Reach new heights at Raven, an ultra unique property featuring a 4-level deck, each with its own balcony. Complete with a game room, pool, and hot tub, this Charleston retreat is ready to entertain all your fellow campers with its plentiful amenities and prime location. A short trip to the Sullivan’s Island Nature Trail, Station 18 Beach, and Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, Raven is here to entertain both in-home and out.
Red Hawk – Park City
Hellooo, Park City! Situated just a few blocks away from the historic Main Street, Red Hawk is a haven for those looking to explore the town center. Plush outdoor sofas cover the expansive deck, encouraging you to take full advantage of the outdoor grill—which, by the way, we make easy to do with fridge stocking service, easily booked through the AvantStay app. (this is a camp-inspired experience, after all). You can order a BBQ package at the touch of a button and skip the grocery store all together. Relax after dinner by vibing out in the hot tub, then head to the in-home theater to watch a movie on the 90′ screen. It doesn’t get much glamp-ier than this.
Haywood – Sevierville, Smokies
Hay is for horses, and Haywood is for relaxation. Enter, the ultimate decompression session. After a day hiking one of the many trails in the Great Smoky National Park, find yourself sprawled out on one of the three balconies this home has to offer. An indoor pool, hot tubs, rocking chairs, and picture-perfect views of the Smokies make this Sevierville cabin one of the best for those looking to disconnect to reconnect with Mother Nature.
Sugarland – Pigeon Forge, TN
Last but certainly not least is Sugarland.If you’re not in the mood for a hike but want to enjoy the scenery, this stay provides jaw-dropping panoramic views with its large windows and comes with a fireplace for extra coziness. Sugarland takes all those nostalgic camping activities you know and love, and gives them a full upgrade. Check out its two steamy hot tubs, an indoor pool, home theater, and game room. Add on its massive balcony and the fact that Dollywood is a mere 30-minute drive away, and you’ve got the ultimate cabin escape. Watch out fellow campers, this home’s bringing the competition.
Need more cabin inspo? Check out our full list of cabins that are perfect for your summer getaway.
Key West enjoys a privileged vacation in southwest Florida, claiming the title of the southernmost city in the continental United States. Although Key West is a mere four miles long and 1.5 miles wide, this tourist attraction packs a punch with activities to do.
Did you know that Key West is that it’s closer to Cuba than it is to Miami? Cuba is only 95 miles away at its nearest point, whereas Miami is 130 miles by flight, offering bragging rights when you return from your vacation or choose to call Key West home.
Before the 19th century, the Native American tribes Calusa and Tequesta lived in Key West. Once the Spanish transferred Florida from Spain to Great Britain in 1763, they moved these natives to Cuba. It wasn’t until 1822 when Lieutenant Commander Matthew C. Perry set a U.S. flag in the Florida Keys and declared it American territory.
Since then, Americans and foreigners alike have flocked to experience the historical and nature-based things to do in Key West. Some people even love it so much that they decide to make Key West their permanent home base. Regardless of your situation, we’ll share the must-dos in Key West. So, get ready and take notes of the best Key West attractions.
1. Make a Bee-line to Duval Street
Duval Street is the place to see in Key West if you’re short on time. The approximately one-mile street sits in the heart of Key West’s old town, between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
Many of the activities we’ll be discussing here call Duval Street home, as it boasts many famous Key West restaurants, attractions, and shops. You can expect crowds day and night along Duval Street, and the nightlife there is outstanding. Live music and street performers make the experience even more special.
2. Meander Around Mallory Square
Mallory Square is an iconic place in Key West, which sits south of Duval Street. The ample space sits on a historic waterfront area of Key West, and you’ll find countless dining and shopping options equipped with souvenirs.
Watching the sunset at Mallory Square is a must when you’re in Key West. Just be prepared to share the view with hundreds of others vying for a good viewpoint. Once the sun goes down, Mallory Square comes to life with free live street performances called the Sunset Celebration, some of which have adult content.
3. Explore Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Fort Zachary Taylor is a state park that predates the Civil War. It’s a budget-friendly thing to do in Key West, given that you pay per vehicle instead of per person. History lovers will appreciate the brick paths that lead you through cannons and gun ports. You can hire a tour guide for more historical context.
Fort Zachary also offers a wonderful respite for relaxing on the beach, swimming in crystal clear water, snorkeling, and several other water sports.
4. Walk Through Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is anything but dry—the only way to arrive at this 100-square-mile park is via boat or seaplane. The park comprises seven islands and is world-renown for the picturesque Fort Jefferson, a former prison during the civil war.
During your day trip to Dry Tortugas, you can take a guided tour of Fort Jefferson, walk pristine beaches, snorkel with colorful fish, and relax in the sun.
5. Stand at America’s Southernmost Point
No trip to Key West is complete without visiting the Southernmost Point, a buoy on the shore that represents the southernmost part of the continental United States. The buoy sits at the end of Old Town Key West surrounded by historic homes and architecture as well as several of Key West’s best bars and restaurants. If you’re hoping to snap a photo of yourself next to the buoy without eating into too much of your day, definitely plan on arriving there at dawn since it gets really crowded at sunset.
A common misconception of non-locals is that you can see Cuba from the Southernmost Point. Unfortunately, you’d need a really big set of binoculars to do that since it’s impossible to see farther than 16 miles on the water anywhere in the world due to the curvature of the earth.
6. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Ernest Hemingway is arguably Key West’s most famous resident and the museum that was once his home is one of Key West’s most popular places to visit. You also may not think of visiting a museum to see real-life six-toed cats, but it’s a great way to coax the non-history buff to go here. Legend has it that Hemingway received a six-toed cat from a captain of a ship, and today many of this cat’s six-toed descendants still wander the museum’s property.
Aside from cats, what makes the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum a must-visit is that you’ll get to explore the actual place where one of America’s greatest authors wrote 70% of his work.
7. Snorkel With Tropical Fish
Whether you bring your own gear or rent from one of the many dive and snorkel shops on the island, Key West is one of the best and only places in the continental U.S. to discover coral reefs and see colorful tropical fish. Some of the best locations to do so include:
You can also sign up for a boat tour that will take you to snorkeling spots away from mainland Key West and in particular out to the coral barrier reef 7-miles offshore which is the third longest in the world. If you love the water and have never been to the tropics before, take at least one snorkel boat trip since the reefs are in better shape offshore because they receive less human traffic.
8. Dive To See the Vandenberg
The Vandenberg is a scuttled former U.S. Navy ship that scientists intentionally sunk in 2009 to purposefully help to create an artificial coral reef to give fish and other marine life a place to thrive and new coral the opportunity to grow.
Nowadays, it’s a favorite spot for both experienced and novice scuba divers, as there are approximately ten stories of ship structure to explore. At its greatest depth, the Vandenberg sits 150 feet underwater off the coast of Key West and is considered one of the best wreck dives in the Florida Keys.
9. Tour the Harry S. Truman Little White House
The Harry S. Truman Little White House was the winter haven for former President Truman. Formerly, the house was part of the Key West Naval Station. But when Truman fell ill in 1946, his doctor prescribed him a warm vacation getaway.
He loved his time there so much that he started visiting more frequently, realizing that he could turn any place into the White House as long as he worked there. Nowadays, you can take a guided tour through Truman’s former home.
10. Take a Sunset Cruise
One of the most iconic things to do in Key West is to take a sunset cruise tour since there are 360-degree views of the sunset from almost everywhere on the water. There’s no shortage of tour agencies ready to book your trip, and you can choose from various sunset cruises, boat styles, and lengths of time to suit people of all ages, budgets, and interests.
Private charters, dinner cruises, and dolphin tours combined with watching the sunset are some of the many choices you’ll have. We encourage you to shop around to land the best price. And if you’re looking for an extra special trip, hiring an event planner is an excellent option.
11. Spend Time at the Key West Aquarium
The Key West Aquarium is one of the best things to do in Key West for families. Here you’ll learn about the hundreds of marine species native to the Key West area, the coral barrier reef, as well as marine conservation efforts to conserve it. When it opened its doors in 1935, the aquarium cost 15 cents for an adult ticket. Although you can’t snag such a deal there these days, the touch tank and educational programs make it well worth the visit, especially for young kids.
Some of the species you’ll encounter at the Key West Aquarium include sharks, stingrays, and dozens of different tropical fish. They even have animals such as iguanas and an American Alligator.
12. Kayak Through Mangroves
Mangroves play a vital role in Key West’s ecosystem, given that they offer shelter and food for marine and non-marine animals alike. They also help prevent coastal erosion.
By visiting Key West, you can enjoy exploring the mangroves in an eco-friendly way by renting kayaks. Because the mangroves protect you from wind and waves, you can expect a peaceful experience as you watch crabs climbing on the roots, fish swimming beside you, and birds flying overhead.
13. Admire the Audubon House and Tropical Gardens
Visiting the Audubon House and Tropical Gardens is a fantastic option if you want to travel back in time during your stay in Key West. You’ll get to wander through the rooms of this 1840s house, which was home to one of Key West’s most famous mariners, Captain John Huling Geiger.
You’ll feel the luxury the moment you step inside Geiger’s home since like many of Key West’s historic captains he earned a fortune from the shipwrecking industry. The tropical gardens are equally as jaw-dropping as the architecture, making you feel that you’re in a Caribbean oasis surrounded by orchids, palms, crotons, and colorful birds and butterflies.
14. Hop on a Bike
There are limited parking spots on Key West, and the fees are expensive, which makes exploring the island by bike an excellent option. Due to the island’s small size, a person of average fitness level can easily explore the entire island by bike.
You’ll encounter many racks around the town where you can store your bike—just be sure your bike rental company gives you a lock. If you’re traveling during the summer, bring lots of water, for the sun is strong.
15. Go on a Dolphin-watching Excursion
We’ll lead with this—seeing dolphins from the shore when walking along Key West’s coast is possible. But if you want a chance to see them closer, taking a dolphin boat tour is an excellent choice.
Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins are the most popular type of dolphin in Key West. Although no tour company can guarantee wild dolphin sightings, these mammals are accustomed to tourists, so it’s common for them to approach boats.
16. Observe Butterflies at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
The family-friendly Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is an exciting way to get up close to butterflies, many of which are native to Key West and the Florida Keys. If you get lucky, one of the hundreds of butterflies at the conservatory also might just land on you!
You’ll also get to admire tropical birds, including two flamingos. And don’t miss the opportunity to take home a real butterfly souvenir. If you drive, the left side of the building behind the garden has free parking.
17. Explore a Warship at the Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum
Visitors to Key West fascinated by maritime history will have an opportunity to geek out on the past by visiting the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham. The Ingham is the only ship today still afloat that’s received two U.S. Presidential Unit Citations for heroism.
You can tour the Ingham by heading to the Truman Waterfront near Truman’s winter White House. If you have young children that aren’t interested in visiting the ship, they can play at a multi-million dollar playground equipped with water slides.
18. Give Your Feet a Break on the Key West Trolley
Even though Key West is small, you can easily rack up 10,000 steps and more by crisscrossing the island as you visit all of the amazing places to see and visit. So buying a one or two-day pass on one of Key West’s hop-on-hop-off trolleys is one of the best things to do in the Conch Republic to spare your feet and save some time.
The trolley makes 13 stops at Key West’s most notable points of interest. You can get off at each stop or spend the day cruising around the trolley sightseeing. Best of all, the trolley has frequent departures, so you don’t have to crimp your sightseeing schedule around theirs.
19. Learn About the Florida Keys at the Eco-discovery Center
Depending on what you choose to do, a visit to Key West can do a number on your bank account, but it doesn’t have to. The Eco-Discovery Center is an excellent example of this. It’s an admission-free 6,000-square-foot facility that offers an in-depth way to learn about the plants and animals native to the Florida Keys and is great for both kids and adults.
During your visit to the Eco-Discovery Center, you can learn about coral reefs, shipwrecks, marine life, plants, endangered species, and the tracking tools scientists use to monitor the ocean’s health, and more. You can also observe live fish and other marine life in a 2,500-gallon reef tank and experience a mock version of Aquarius, the only underwater ocean laboratory in the world.
20. Gawk at the Buildings at Key West Bight Marina
Key West Bight is a place to wander the marina as your head swivels between admiring the architecture of old homes and looking at flashy modern boats docked at the port. It’s a place for tourists and locals alike to enjoy an afternoon stroll or a fine dining experience at one of the many restaurants.
Visiting the Key West Bight Marina is also an excellent place to go shopping or book the tour you’ve been meaning to arrange. It’s a bustling area and has been that way for almost 200 years, as the marina has been a central place for Key West’s economic survival.
21. Climb the Key West Lighthouse
The Key West Lighthouse formerly belonged to the U.S. Navy. Nowadays, visitors can climb up its 88-step staircase for stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, downtown Key West, and the rest of the Lower Florida Keys.
The Key West Lighthouse is open seven days a week. But don’t expect to climb to the top at sunset since the last admission is at 4:30 pm. You can also book discounted tickets online which will save you a little bit of money.
22. Partake in Water Sports
It should come as no surprise that visiting an island like Key West surrounded by the ocean offers the opportunity to experience water sports until you can’t take it anymore. In addition to booking a sunset boat tour or snorkeling or diving excursion, you can get your adrenaline pumping with dozens of other water sports including:
You can also rent a boat and spend a day on the water exploring Key West at your leisure on your own. Since there’s so much competition among water sports tour providers, you can often negotiate a good deal, especially if you want to book more than one tour.
23. Beach Yourself at Lagerheads
Lagerheads Beach is one of the best (and only) strips of sandy beach in Key West and Lagerheads Beach Bar is one of the best places on the island to find an excellent selection of food, drinks, snorkel gear, and more for a day of fun in the sun.
It’s common to encounter locals kicking back here with a drink under one of Lagerheads’ many shaded tables and chatting about island life. Best of all, since Lagerheads isn’t in the center of Key West’s most touristy attractions, it has relatively fewer crowds and it’s easier to get in.
24. Escape the Rain at Tropic Cinema
Rain keeps Key West the lush and tropical island oasis that visitors and locals love, so you should have some indoor backups during your time here. Tropic Cinema is an excellent option, as it’s an independent cinema that features a combination of Hollywood blockbusters as well as international indy films.
There’s no mistaking this cinema for the cineplex-style movie theater you’ve been to in the past; it has an Art Deco marquee flair. You’ll also encounter a Marilyn Monroe sculpture and Key West’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Don’t miss out on the chance to purchase popcorn at Tropic Cinema, which is famous on the island.
25. See Artifacts at the Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Key West is legendary for pirates, shipwrecks, and underwater treasure hunters so the Shipwreck Treasure Museum is a fun way to get your kids interested in maritime history and the ocean. In addition to exploring the museum with real artifacts collected from shipwrecks, you can climb up to the Captain’s Observatory and see how captains used to spot cargo ships.
The museum does an excellent job of narrating thrilling true stories about the mariners who risked their lives to collect treasure buried at the bottom of the ocean around Key West before advanced, modern scuba diving and underwater sonar equipment existed.
26. Partake in the Party at Fantasy Fest
If you’re looking for some adult fun, Fantasy Fest is a classic Key West festival that occurs for ten days every October. It was started in 1979 by “Conchs” (locals born in Key West) and is now one of the most anticipated annual events on the island. It’s also an excellent opportunity for locals to rent out their homes through a vacation rental management company.
Fantasy Fest is a bit like a week-long Halloween party for adults. People dress up in elaborate costumes and makeup, partaking in parades and parties that seem to run 24/7. One of the biggest highlights during Fantasy Fest is the Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade, which gives Superbowl ads a run for their money.
27. Learn About Cuban History at the San Carlos Institute
The San Carlos Institute is a looker from the outside with its tasteful architecture, and inside it holds a trove of Conch Republic history. Started in 1871 by Cubans exiled in Key West, it was once one of the foundations of Cuba’s independence movement.
Visitors to the San Carlos Institute can browse through a museum, art gallery, and library and there’s also a theater and school. The San Carlos Institute is an excellent place for people wanting to have a deeper understanding of Cuban history as it relates to Key West and the close connection between the two islands.
28. Visit the Oldest Eatery in the Florida Keys
Pepe’s Cafe is Key West’s local secret that’s no longer a secret. The restaurant opened its doors in 1909, making it the oldest restaurant operating in the Florida Keys. It’s hard not to fall in love with Pepe’s as you dine outside in an environment that will take you back in time to old Florida life.
One of the best things to do in Key West when your feet are tired from exploring is to eat—and Pepe is one of the best and most historic places on the island to do this. They bake their own bread, shuck their oysters in-house, and all of their salad dressings are handmade.
29. Learn About Sea Turtles at the Turtle Museum
The Turtle Museum is a small but charming opportunity for kids and adults to learn about the endangered sea turtles that are native to the Florida Keys. There’s no entrance fee to visit and you’ll learn the fascinating background of how sea turtles lay eggs, migrate, and survive in the ocean environment, as well as see some actual sea turtle bones up close.
The Turtle Museum also offers kid-friendly activities to keep younger visitors engaged. By the time you leave the Turtle Museum, you’ll be ready to protect these majestic sea creatures that have become so vulnerable in the Florida Keys and elsewhere around the globe.
30. Grab a Drink at Sloppy Joes
If you only have one chance to visit a taproom in Key West, make it Sloppy Joes. The beloved bar on Duval Street established itself on the day that the U.S. government repealed prohibition. At the time, it was a speakeasy. Now, it’s a favorite spot for tourists and locals to get their fill of alcohol.
And, yes, you can buy an infamous sloppy joe sandwich from Sloppy Joes. The no-frill ingredients of ground beef, tomato sauce, onions, and peppers might sound simple, but it’s the go-to order for many people visiting this bar. If sloppy joes aren’t your thing, Sloppy Joes offers an extensive menu of other food, including their famous key lime pie.
31. Go Back in Time to the Oldest House Museum
There’s no trick to this place’s name; the Oldest House Museum is the oldest house in Key West and claims the title of the oldest house in South Florida, built in 1829.
Some people prefer to admire the Oldest House Museum from the outside, as you’ll pass it walking down Duval Street. But if you love history, you’ll want to give this museum a tour. It contains the oldest Cook House remaining in South Florida and tells the amazing story of the many generations of people who have occupied the home over the years.
Conclusion
We’re confident you’ll have a fantastic vacation since there are so many fun things to do in Key West. However, as some departing advice, note that only one road leads to Key West from the continental U.S.
So, if you drive there, pack some snacks and a flexible mindset in case an accident on the road delays your arrival. We guarantee the activities in Key West will make it worth the wait.
It’s s’more season. What better way to satisfy that outdoors-itch than by glamping it up next to an oh-so-cozy fire pit with a view? Check out these toasty terrains you should consider booking for your next weekend getaway.
Moonshine – Coachella Valley, CA
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A real hole-in-one Coachella Valley getaway. This home in La Quinta, CA is a great getaway for those looking to unwind in style. Situated right in the heart of the PGA West Golf Course, Moonshine is ideal for those looking to make their vacay a true winner. Spend the day on the golf course, or trot down to Lake Cahuilla Equestrian & Group Camp. For a more relaxing day, find yourself perched up poolside. When the sun goes down, enjoy this beautiful fire pit, perfect for sipping cocktails as the sun sets.
Holly – Breckenridge, CO
For us, the best way to end a day of hitting the slopes is sitting with a hot toddy by a fireplace. But that’s just us. Take that experience to the next level by staying at Holly – a blissful Breckenridge stay situated right at the foot of the mountains, and just a short drive from the Breckenridge Ski Resort and Vail Pass Path. Keep the party going by bringing your toddies to the hot tub – and that’s what we call an elevated vacation night.
Jackrabbit Ridge – Joshua Tree, CA
One thing about Jackrabbit Ridge – it comes with plenty to do and plenty of room. When you’re not cozied up by the fire pit or soaking in the pool with the 9 other guests this stay can accommodate, feel free to adventure off to Joshua Tree National Park or Hawks Landing Golf Course. End the night with a night swim, and you’ve officially hit all your vacation must-haves.
Pioneer – Powell Butte, Central OR
Talk about a view.Pioneer is an exceptional ranch-style home located within the Brasada Ranch community. This home’s elegant fire pit is situated on an expansive patio, complete with plenty of space for you and 9 of your friends. When you’re ready to hit the road and explore, Bend is only a short drive away and is home to tons of famous breweries and bites. Adventure seekers: grab your skis and feel for yourself Oregon’s best powder on the infamous Mt. Bachelor.
Unwind with a glass of wine on a deck overlooking the forest, stargaze from a private balcony, or enjoy a board game by a crackling fireplace. There’s something about Big Bear that slows life down in all the right ways. This Southern California mountain town delivers the kind of calm we all crave.
In every season, Big Bear brings a new way to recharge—snowy adventures in winter, wildflower hikes in spring, lake days in summer, and golden leaves in fall. And the best way to enjoy it all? A cozy cabin, a quiet deck, and a home that feels just right.
So if you’re planning a family getaway, group trip, or solo reset, these 15 Big Bear Airbnbs are packed with everything you need for a restful, memory-making stay. Let’s find your perfect mountain escape!
Lakeside on Lagunita is the kind of place where you can sip coffee with a view, share laughs over dinner, and watch the sun dip behind the water. It’s peaceful, quiet, and perfect for slow mornings or weekend celebrations with family or friends. Whether you’re hanging out on the deck or enjoying the calm of the lake by the dock, this is the stay that helps you feel present and recharged.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Waterfront with a private dock, hot tub paired with lake views
Fireplace, BBQ grill, designated work area, outdoor deck for lounging
Just minutes from Big Bear Lake village and scenic trails
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“PERFECT TO A TEE!!! From booking to checkout everything was smooth, easy, PERFECT! The photos are great, but in person it was extremely PERFECT!!! AvantStay- customer service agents were SUPER HELPFUL! Timothy and David are very very responsive! THANK YOU!!! Airbnb thank you for the prompt action and response with all the inquiries. The place is GOOOORRRGEEEOUUUS!!! We all fell inlove! The house has everything you need! From kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and other things…they provide ALL as in ALL that you need! Celebrated my bf’s birthday with some friends and this gave us exactly what we needed; SERENE AND IMMACULATE! U have full access to the lake! The hot tub is perfectly situated in the property and gives u a perfect view of the lake. Each room has balcony access which was great! The kitchen has view of the lake and so as the outdoor dining where you can also enjoy ur meal while enjoying the breeze and the view. THANK YOU SO MUCH AVANT STAY we will def comeback and stay with you!”
Life slows you down in the best way when you stay at Shoreline Lakehouse. A waterfront home where mornings here are quiet and calm, and afternoons are all about spending time with your favorite people, laughing, playing, and taking in the Big Bear Lake views. No matter the season you are visiting—summer, winter, fall, or spring—this home provides an effortless setting to connect and savor the present.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Direct lake access with a private dock, big yard for lakeside lounging
Firepit, fireplace, hot tub, and game room with poker table
Great for family trips—close to ski slopes, town, and trails
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“Wonderful house on the lake with gorgeous views. Plenty of room. Nice fully equipped kitchen. Lots of games to play. Outdoor fire pit was wonderful and we enjoyed the spa!”
“This lovely well maintained and well stocked log cabin was everything my family hoped for and exceeded our expectations! It was just the right size for our family and we all appreciated having a bathroom co-joining each bedroom. The outdoor space was perfect for all the range of activities our family( ages from a 2 yr. old to grandparents) wished to engage in! The view of the lake and surrounding mountains was exquisite! Thank you for sharing your cabin with my family!!”
Bearpaw is your cabin that makes it easy for families and friends to actually enjoy time together. You can swap stories by the fire, challenge someone to a game in the rec room, or just kick back and watch the sun dip behind the trees. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of hiking, boating, or exploring town. If you’re planning a small celebration, a family weekend, or a cozy reunion, this is the cabin that will make it all unforgettable.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Hot tub and fireplace made for chill nights after big adventures
Rec room with card table, foosball, and a kids’ play zone
You will be near Big Bear Lake, Ski Beach Park, and downtown shopping
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“Thanks for having us you guys have amazing service and plan to come back soon!”
“Great location. Very easy to reach out and communicate. Had lots of space and it suited our needs for our family.”
“The place is gorgeous, my friends and I really enjoyed our stay. Clean and with plenty of room for 10 of us.”
When the view stretches for miles and the air smells like pine, you know you’ve arrived somewhere special. At Views at Wolf Lodge, you’ll love how days get slower—whether you’re sipping coffee on the deck or laughing with friends after a day on the trails. A peaceful, cozy escape that still keeps you close to all the adventure. Come for the views, stay for the feeling of total calm.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Expansive deck with a hot tub for the best ski slope views
Indoor sauna, firepit, and fireplace for the needed wind-down
Just minutes from Bear Mountain and Snow Summit resorts
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“Great spot for a big group of friends! Jacuzzi and sauna were awesome. Kitchen had everything we needed. Prime location.”
If you’re chasing good times and fresh mountain air, Clover is the perfect place to land. Gather your crew, kick back by the fire, and soak in the pine-scented air after a day on the slopes. Whether you’re playing games, telling stories on the porch, or simply enjoying the views, every moment here feels like a small adventure. This cabin is made for slow mornings, cozy nights, and a whole lot of memories.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Private hot tub, outdoor fire pit, BBQ grills, fireplaces, and big porches to relax on
Separate game room with pool, foosball, air hockey tables, and a bar area
Ski-in/ski-out access near Big Bear’s best slopes and trails
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“If you are skiing bear mountain, and not snow summit, this is a fabulous place to stay.”
Built for easy, happy memories, Zen Den is the cabin where you can breathe in the pine air and enjoy the little things that make a mountain trip special. Start your day by stretching on the private deck, and end the night with friendly games and stories around the fireplace. Whether you’re gathering family, celebrating a weekend, or just escaping the city noise, Zen Den is the perfect place to be.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Private and spacious deck with hot tub and outdoor lounge seating
Foosball table, pool/hockey combo table, and Cozy spaces with a fireplace to relax
Close to Big Bear Lake Village, ski resorts, and trails
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
”My family and I had an excellent time at this cabin. I almost don’t want to leave a review because I want to gate-keep so I have it available for later. Will stay again when I am back in Big Bear.”
“Beautiful home. Very big and accommodating for our group. We’d definitely stay here again!”
If you’re catching up with friends or escaping the city with family or loved ones, Oak and Luna feels like your own private design-forward retreat in the trees. Bright and calm yet cozy where your trip will be filled with movies, games, and easy conversations. This home gives you a fresh, relaxed space to unwind and reconnect. Every corner feels intentional, like it was made for a great weekend.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Vaulted ceilings with big windows to let the sunlight in
Game room with ping pong & pool table, hot tub, and a private theater
Minutes from Moonridge shops, slopes, and Big Bear Lake
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“This cabin was just so much fun! It was perfect for my girls bachelorette trip! So much room and perfectly set up! The living room was so lovely to spend time in! Overall, such a great stay and loved all the memories made on this trip and in this house! Would definitely book this home again!”
“Beautiful house in gorgeous area with incredibly responsive host. Thank you”
Where cozy moments and mountain memories come together with ease, welcome to Paw Print! This spacious log cabin is where your group can laugh over a game, unwind by the fire, or just enjoy the fresh air and quiet views. Whether it’s a weekend escape or a seasonal tradition with your family and friends, this home gives you space to truly unplug, relax, connect, and feel right at home in Big Bear.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Two living rooms, pool table, jukebox, and jacuzzi tub for evening fun & relaxation
Hot tub, BBQ, outdoor lounging, and picnic table by the deck
Just 8 minutes to Big Bear Marina and nearby ski slopes
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“This house was just as described my family and I had a great stay. The house was big and spacious and very clean. Pool table and hot tub were definitely a plus. We definitely would love to stay at this location again.”
“If you plan on having a great time at big bear This house won’t disappoint , minutes away from everything , zoo across the street ! My family and I had a great time . The inside was spacious and most importantly clean . Recommend 100 percent. Hope the next families enjoy the Jenga game I left ! :)”
“Great place! Very cozy, good space in every room, we loved the pool table, hot tub and location! The kitchen has everything you need!”
If you’re visiting to explore Big Bear or simply unwind with your fave people, Endless View lives up to its name with sweeping mountain scenery from nearly every room. With just enough for quiet reflection or group laughter on the deck, this home gives you space, comfort, and a front-row seat to nature’s beauty. It’s a true escape that feels both big and personal, yet cozy and truly relaxing.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Wrap-around deck with lounge chairs to enjoy the endless mountain views
Backyard with hot tub and swing, converted garage with pool & ping pong tables
A few minutes to Bear Mountain and close to Big Bear Zoo and lake access
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“Lovely spacious home in a beautiful location. Enough space for three families to be together and apart all at the same time. Amazing views of the mountains and lake. Great access to the town near by with cute little stores and restaurants to enjoy. Lots of fun activities for the kids with the local zoo and sledding! Would recommend it to anyone looking to get away!”
“The place was very spacious and comfortable. easy check in instructions and the kitchen was fully stocked – overall a great stay!”
The mountain escape that invites everyone to slow down and settle in, say hello to Angels Camp Lodge. Soak in the quiet forest views or play games together after a day outdoors; every corner of this home feels calm and comfortable. Tucked just off the trailheads and minutes from the slopes, it’s a great home base for both adventure and rest. Big enough for the whole crew, but cozy enough to feel personal.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Outdoor deck space for al fresco dining, lounging, and soaking in the hot tub
Game room with pool table, poker, shuffleboard, & more, fireplaces, firepit, and bar seating
Near Bear Mountain, hiking trails, and village shops
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“This cabin was perfect!!! I had 7 teenagers, ages between 16-19 years old, and they too loved the cabin. Everything we needed was there, plenty of entertainment from them as well as for us Adults. The amount of space was perfect for the family bonding as well as personal space for when a break from the family was needed. The property was amazingly large and felt like we were out in the woods but close enough to town, less than 10 mins down to Main Big Bear road. Even dropped the kids off at the village to shop and hang for a few hours. This cabin had was beautifully perfect!!!”
“Was such a smooth rent with Avant. Communication was on point. Directions were clear. Not once did I feel left to try to figure anything out on my own. The place was gorgeous and wish I could have stayed longer. Again, thank you for everything and hope to run into you all again. Rent this place!”
Slowing down feels natural, and so does spending time together at Penticton Lodge. A warm and welcoming space that feels both spacious and tucked away. Gather around the fireplace, swap stories in the loft, or watch the sunrise views from the private balcony. This is the home that lets everyone find their own moment of peace. Cozy where it counts, it’s the cabin where mornings linger and evenings come with a side of laughter.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Wraparound decks, balconies with outdoor lounging & BBQ space
Hot tub, fireplace, and game room with pool & card table for end-of-day wind-downs
Just minutes to ski resorts, trailheads, and Big Bear Village
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“Penticton Lodge is a great home for our family short weekend trip in Big Bear. We loved the Lodge! It is perfectly decorated and very homey. Big windows that shows the views of the mountains, love the scenic views and we had great pictures. Easy to find on the location, quiet and private. Close to downtown and some parks. Thank you Avantstay.. we had a great time.”
“Had a wonderful time celebrating our son bday. Would definitely come back to this location. Lovely views, very enjoyable. Everything was close by which made it very convenient and comfortable.”
“This stay was perfect with the AvantStay team responding and answering any questions I had, as well as being friendly and understanding. The place it self was beautiful and the view of the mountain outside the windows were amazing. This stay was worth every cent and will most definitely be going back again hopefully when it actually snows.”
Whether you’re catching up over dinner, hosting game night, or just soaking up the pine-scented air, Lazy Bear Lodge is the cabin that makes it easy to relax and enjoy each other’s company. It’s modern, welcoming, and just minutes from all the fun Big Bear has to offer. Made for memory-making, afternoons here are full of play, and nights bring everyone together around the fire.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Spacious backyard with BBQ grill, a picnic table, swing, fire pit, lawn games, and hot tub
Game room, shuffleboard, poker, ping pong, pool table, and more
Walkable location, near ski shuttle, shops, and trails
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“A few of my family friends and our little ones stayed at this home, and it was comfortable, roomy, and most importantly it was clean. Everything that we needed to work worked perfectly including the fire place, hot water, fridge, grill and stove. The kitchen was equipped, which was very helpful in making our stay feel like a home away from home. There was a pool table, a large dinner table and overall a lot of fun space for the kids to play. They didn’t want to leave the cabin! The location of the cabin is also ideal. Close enough to the town, but far enough to get nice and quiet at night time. Communicating with our property manager was very easy and quick as well as the check in and check out process. If we ever make it back to Big Bear Mountain, we will definitely want to stay at this place again. Such a positive experience!”
“We really loved this cabin and will be booking again. It has everything you need and lots of activities to keep you entertained. Definitely recommend booking.”
Viewtopia is one of those homes where the stunning view truly lives up to its reputation. Whether you’re unwinding in the hot tub under the stars, grilling a feast on the patio, or gathering around the fire pit for stories, it’s all about making memories with your crew. It’s a home that brings everyone together, with space to unwind, play, and reconnect. From quiet lake moments to lively game nights, your group getaway starts here.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Indoor hot tub and bar & screened sunroom patio with front lake views while you lounge
Decks with fire pit, game room with arcade, poker, foosball, arcades, and pool table
Just 7 minutes away from Snow Summit and The Village
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“The house was exactly as described, there were tons of things to do so it kept the whole family entertained- which was important since there ended up not being any snow. They were very communicative, check out was super easy, we had a great time. I’d definitely stay here again.”
“Everything was great host was very responsive and helpful and nice. Enjoyed every part of the property. Hot tub was a great added feature.”
“This is a very comfortable cabin. Close to the water ,and great place to walk to for fish. our family had a great time here over Thanksgiving.thank you !”
Feel like your own private lodge built for unforgettable moments at Big Bear Castle. Whether you’re gathering for a birthday, family reunion, or just looking for some mountain peace, this home gives your group the space to spread out and come together. From the wood-beamed great room to the storybook-style guest house, everything about this place feels personal and grand.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Private main house with a “castle bridge” that brings you to the guest casita & courtyard
Multiple fireplaces, jacuzzi tubs, lounge spaces, a fire pit, and a huge game room
Perfect for reunions, milestone celebrations, and group retreats
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“Very nice location. I spent my birthday dinner. Very cool that can give you options for check in and check out and with private chefs and much more. Thank you for your placd”
“My family rented this house to hold a memorial for my parents. This location and home worked out perfectly.”
“Everything was perfect. AvantStay team was always responsive and friendly.”
Just a short stroll from the lifts, Jackhorn makes ski days smoother and slow mornings sweeter. It’s where you can spend all day outside, then come back to warmth, comfort, and a space that invites connection. Share a quiet sunrise on the deck or wind down by the fire after a day on the slopes; this place brings the chill in the best way possible. Simple, cozy, and right where you want to be.
House Highlights You’ll Love:
Open-concept living house interior with fireplace and mountain views
Private back deck with hot tub and propane BBQ grill
Walkable to Snow Summit—just 6 houses from the main lift
Hear From Our Recent Happy Guests:
“Location was perfect for what our family needed. Easy walking distance to Snow Summit. Home was a cozy layout and great for the kids to play. Some items were an issue upon arrival but owners were very responsive to our concerns and made accommodations.”
“Great cabin and such a short walk to snow summit. We would stay here again!”
“Walking distance to summit. We are beginner skiers with young kids this place was great and a great value. Internet/kid friendly/bunkbeds/spacious/clean – things we needed. Hot tub was nice.”
Big Bear has something to offer every season. The best time to visit Big Bear really depends on the kind of relaxing getaway you’re craving or needing. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare for the best possible trip.
❄️ Winter (December to March)
Visiting Big Bear during winter, from December to March, is perfect for snow lovers. It is a snowy wonderland where the ski and snowboard season is in full swing during this time, and the cozy cabin vibes are unmatched.
Our tip is to book early—this is Big Bear’s busiest time and houses rent out fast! Plus pack tire chains (they’re required by law during storms).
🌸 Spring (April to May)
Spring at Big Bear brings fresh mountain air, quieter trails, fewer crowds, and crisp mornings. It’s ideal for a peaceful solo mountain escape or a couples retreat. If you are looking for a calming and serene visit, try going during this time.
This is the best time to find deals on lodging before summer rates return. Our other tip is to bring layers of clothes as mornings and evenings here are still a bit chilly.
☀️ Summer (June to August)
When you visit Big Bear during summer, expect to have fun around the lake. It is lake season, think kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and biking with warm evenings around the BBQ. The town buzzes with events, live music, and family-friendly energy.
Our tip is to pack sunscreen, reusable water bottles, and a cooler for lakeside lunches. Book lakefront homes early—they’re the first to go.
🍂 Fall (September to November)
The fall season in Big Bear is underrated and beautiful. It is a hidden gem where you’ll get to see colorful foliage, experience cool hiking weather, and enjoy better booking deals before ski season kicks in.
Our tip is to not forget hiking boots and a camera, as trails like Castle Rock and Pine Knot are gorgeous this time of year. It’s also a great time for lower rates & last-minute getaways.
✨ Our Best Tip
If you want both snow play and shorter lift lines, aim for early December or mid-March. For lake fun without peak season prices, June or September are your sweet spots.
The Mountains Are Calling — Book Your Escape
No matter the season, Big Bear offers the kind of stillness, beauty, and togetherness that’s hard to come by these days.
Traveling with family, planning a birthday weekend, or just needing to unplug for a few days? There is a cozy cabin tailor-made for your kind of getaway. Book today!
Snow-dusted slopes to golden fall trails, sunny summer hikes to springtime alpine blooms—Breckenridge is a year-round mountain dream.
Whether you’re sipping cocoa fireside during the winter or hitting wildflower-covered trails under crisp spring skies, there’s a home here that fits your vibe, your group, and your season. Ski-in/ski-out condos for peak snow days, cozy cabins for leaf peeping, and sun-drenched decks perfect for your summer BBQs.
We’ve rounded up 8 of our most epic Airbnbs in Breckenridge, sorted by the best time to visit each one. So pack your boots, your flip-flops, your fuzzy socks—or all three—and find your perfect stay. Let’s break it down, season by season!
🍃 Summer (June – August)
Sun’s out, trails are calling! Summer in Breck is all about long hikes, mountain biking, wildflowers, and bluebird skies that stretch for miles. It’s the season of patio brunches, flip-flops on trails, and golden hour that feels like it never ends. Whether you’re tubing down the river or hanging by the hot tub after a day of adventures, summer in the Rockies is a vibe you don’t want to miss.
1. Dillon
When the dog days of summer hit, there’s no better place to cool down and connect than Dillon. Tucked among towering pines, this mountain hideaway is a sunshine-soaked playground for big groups. This is your summer basecamp for hiking trails, BBQ hangs, and barefoot mornings with coffee on the deck.
Surrounded by pine trees with plenty of outdoor lounge space.
Features a hot tub, games, patio with lounge area, grill, and al fresco dining table.
Ideal for summer gatherings and outdoor activities to relax, play, and reconnect.
Zendo is your summer mountain escape with all the cozy cabin feels—plus way more space than your average lodge. High ceilings, big windows, and lots of sunshine give this place a light, open vibe that’s perfect for hanging with friends or family, where unplugged mornings, sunset soaks, and game-night laughter all roll into one easy, breezy summer stay.
Tucked away in the pines with incredible mountain views.
Includes a game room with a bar, billiards table, and shuffleboard.
The deck features a hot tub and dining table for enjoying the views and starry skies.
Sweater weather, but make it mountain-style. When September hits, the aspens put on a fiery show of gold and orange. By October, that crisp, fresh air is perfect for scenic hikes, hot drinks, and flannel layers. November brings early snow and cozy nights in. It’s the quiet season that feels like your own private slice of Breck—vibrant, peaceful, and photo-ready.
3. Buffalo
If you are looking for a fall escape that you’ll daydream about for a long time—peaceful, private, and surrounded by golden aspens and crisp mountain air, then head over to Buffalo. A charming cabin giving you all the space (and quiet) you need to truly disconnect and soak up those cozy Breck vibes with flannel blankets and hot apple cider.
A 1.5-acre lot, surrounded by remarkable scenery of forests and distant peaks.
Features a stone-walled fireplace, views of Breckenridge Ski Resort, and a hot tub.
Perfect for watching the leaves change and enjoying peaceful surroundings.
There’s just something about fall in the mountains—golden aspens, crisp mornings, and that cozy, woodsy feeling. And Paddington nails it with its fiery fall colors, just waiting for stories and warm cider. If you’re leaf peeping, hiking in crunchy boots, or staying in for a movie marathon, this cozy home is all about comfort and connection.
Just a short walk to downtown Breckenridge’s shops & restaurants.
Two decks for soaking up the crisp mountain sunshine and blooming alpine landscapes.
Private outdoor hot tub for starry spring nights, and breathe in that fresh alpine air.
This is what Breck was built for. Peak ski season kicks off in December and rolls through February, bringing powder days, bluebird skies, and après-ski magic. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, sledding with the kids, or curled up by the fire, winter here is snow-dusted perfection. Pro tip: Book early—this season sells out fast!
5. Twin Chutes
Whether you’re chasing fresh powder or just want to watch the snow fall from a warm, stylish space, Twin Chutes is your best choice for a Breck winter home. This bright and modern condo is located right by the lifts, meaning you can literally roll out of bed and hit the slopes. Talk about front-row seats to ski season, and yeah, there’s no shortage of cozy!
Bright and roomy condo offers ski-in/ski-out access and onsite ski lockers.
Access to upscale amenities, including a billiards table, hot tub, and gym.
Ideal for snow bunnies and winter sports enthusiasts.
As the name suggests, Frontier is your front-row ticket to snow-dusted magic in Breck. Step inside and kick off your boots—this place knows how to make you feel at home. Whether you’re carving first tracks in the morning or sipping hot cocoa fireside at night, this cozy yet modern house brings all the alpine vibes of fuzzy socks, mittens, and card games.
Warm wood, leather, and plaid furnishings create a cozy atmosphere.
Huge dining table, indoor fireplace, record player, and private hot tub made for groups.
Enjoy the outdoor patio with a BBQ grill and hot tub, ideal for crisp fall evenings.
The snow melts, the sun sticks around, and everything comes back to life. March keeps the powder days coming, while April and May start to warm up the trails. Spring is that golden in-between: fewer crowds, epic blue skies, and the chance to ski in a T-shirt by day and stargaze in the hot tub by night. It’s low-key, laid-back, and seriously underrated.
7. River Rock
As the snow starts to melt, trails reappear, and the town breathes new life, that’s exactly the vibe at River Rock, a lodge-style home tucked into the trees wher you can have après-ski mornings and wildflower hikes by afternoon or slide into the hot tub and sip something bubbly under the gazebo when the temps drop in the evening.
Majestic ski home that is just one bus stop from the base of Peak 8.
Includes a stone-walled fireplace, expansive kitchen, game room, and home theatre.
Outdoor hot tub for cozy hangs and to enjoy a drink on the gazebo.
Spring has sprung—and Snowflake is the breath of fresh mountain air you didn’t know you needed. For that sweet spot between snow-dusted mornings, say hello to your spring sanctuary in Breckenridge. This character-filled cabin puts you close to all the springtime fun it has to offer.
Ski-in/ski-out access with a chair lift that puts the lift basically at your doorstep.
Fireplace, covered patio with outdoor dining area, and access to community hot tub.
Perfect for enjoying the transition from winter to spring in Breckenridge.
Whether you’re chasing powder turns in January or golden hikes in September, Breckenridge brings the magic year-round—and the right home makes it unforgettable. And if you are looking for other activities, here’s our guide to the best things to do while in Breckenridge.
Beyond its postcard-perfect scenery, it’s the cozy cabins, hot tub nights, local breweries, walkable downtown, and that crisp mountain air that make people fall in love—and come back again. From snowy adventures to sun-soaked escapes, there’s never a bad time to be here. All you have to do is pick your season (or come back for all four).
You don’t need to wait for a “perfect time” to visit, as every season brings its own kind of bliss. All that’s missing? You. Book a Breckenridge stay with us today!
Few things get us more excited than a celebration, so we’ve designed our homes to accommodate yours. Group-friendly, fully-equipped, and downright fun, Avantstay properties are the perfect place to host your next occasion. Here’s why.
1. We have room for everyone, even the dog.
From charming cabins in the mountains to equestrian estates in wine country, our vacation homes accommodate groups large and small. Find the right fit by entering the number of lucky guests into the search feature on our site. Then, browse through a diverse selection of properties that will bring your vision to life. Think 20+ acre ranches featuring private lakes, horse stables, and volleyball courts. And since no vacation is complete without your best friend, we offer a handful of pet-friendly homes so no one gets left behind.
2. There’s plenty of space to stay the night.
Sometimes the party is so fun, you just don’t want to leave. Thankfully, our homes have enough bedrooms so your guests can stay the night. This is super convenient if you’re hosting a destination wedding, multi-day event, or if your party is simply looking to…party (responsibly).
Event Spotlight: Camp Poosh
We loved hosting Camp Poosh by Poosh, which saw several influencers come together for a camp-themed event for Kourtney Kardashian’s lifestyle brand at our home Buena Vista in Coachella Valley. There were a variety of interactive stations, including archery and bracelet-making, for guests to enjoy and many of them stayed at the property overnight.
3. Endless amenities & decked-out spaces.
Our award-winning design team carefully outfits each of our homes with upscale features, games, and amenities to take your vacation to the next level. Walk into a stocked chef’s kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances, challenge friends to a game of billiards or ping pong, dive onto the couch in your home theater, and gather around the oversized firepit with a cocktail from the wet bar in hand. This is the good life and it’s also very photo-friendly.
4. Our spaces are customizable to your event.
Planning an event can be overwhelming, especially when it involves travel. Luckily, we have a whole team dedicated to assisting you throughout the process so you don’t have to stress. Your complimentary retreat coordinator can work with you to put together a schedule involving fun activities, such as wine tastings in town, hot air balloon rides on the lawn, and private chef dinners at home. We have close relationships with vendors in the area so you’ll get the best prices on everything. Your retreat coordinator can also set up decorations, stock the fridge, and make pretty much anything you need happen.
Event Spotlights:
Birthday Parties
Whether you’re celebrating a 1st birthday, 70th birthday, or anything in between (pet parties, too!), our team can help make the day extra memorable for you and your friends.
Proposals
Photo Credit: Danielle Determan
Looking to pop the question? Our homes are the perfect backdrop and our team can help make the event as special as possible.
Let’s face it, there are a million reasons to host a celebration at an AvantStay home but we’ll cap it off at 4 for now! We recommend booking one of our homes as far out in advance as possible. Also, make sure to download our mobile app which will allow you to add special services, including fridge-stocking & in-home massages, to your experience. Have questions? Connect with our events team now!
So, you’re in search of a vacation rental manager? Whether this is the first vacation home that you want to list as a short-term rental, or you’re looking for a new company to manage your fleet of vacation properties, our guide will help you make an informed, stress-free decision. We’ve compiled all the questions you should ask when wondering how to choose a vacation rental management company. Let’s dive in.
In this guide we’ll answer:
How do other short-term rentals perform in my market?
What are vacation rental management fees & contract terms?
What services are included in my contract?
How do you advertise my home?
How large is your rental portfolio?
How do I know my home will be in good hands?
Why should I partner with a vacation rental management company?
How do other short-term rentals perform in my market?
A great vacation rental manager should be an expert in all aspects of your local market. Be sure to ask them about the other types of vacation rentals in your area and their rates, seasonal trends, and local regulations.
Unlike traditional management companies, which use simple on and off-season pricing, we use our proprietary dynamic pricing model that leverages 75 to 150 pricing “seasons.” These seasons capture and optimize revenue based on occupancy, day of the week, seasonal fluctuations, holidays, and market events.
What are vacation rental management fees & contract terms?
Short-term rental management companies can charge you anything from 12-50% of your rental income. While a lower management fee with higher promised profits sounds great, make sure you know exactly what services are included with your contract so you don’t end up breaking even. If your budget allows it, consider paying above-average management fees in return for services that will wow your guests, boost your ratings, and ultimately drive more revenue.
Also, ask about the terms and conditions of your contract. Can you end your contract early if the company isn’t performing well or isn’t delivering on the promised services? Know your outs and any opportunities for negotiation.
AvantStay Vacation Rental Management
When it comes to contracts, one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why we offer a vacation rental management program designed to work for you. Our flexible approach allows you to partner with us in a way that maximizes your home’s potential and fits your goals.
We earn a percentage of the revenue we bring in and pay you a monthly revenue share. The amount varies depending on the season and guest demand, giving you the opportunity to earn more during peak travel periods.
What services are included in my contract?
Management fees and contracts should help you deliver an exceptional experience for your guests. When vetting vacation rental managers, ask what is and isn’t included in your contract. Services like marketing, interior design, photography, listing and pricing your home, managing reservations, and home maintenance are all worth investing in to ultimately maximize your revenue. Consider partnering with a full-service company, like AvantStay, that can deliver these services.
How do you advertise my home?
Once your home listing is live, the approach any vacation rental manager takes to advertising and distribution is key to your success and can make the difference between getting plenty of bookings or getting overlooked.
Ask where they plan to advertise your home, how many bookings come from their site, what other listing sites they partner with (known as OTAs or Online Travel Agencies), how they drive positive guest reviews, and other services they provide like photography or search engine marketing. On average, vacation rental companies that manage over 1,000 properties only list on five platforms, so be sure to vet carefully.
With AvantStay, our powerful distribution capabilities are included in your management agreement. 40% of bookings come directly from our site, but we also optimize each listing across more than 60 distribution channels, including Airbnb, VRBO, La Cure, LVH, TripAdvisor, Expedia, Booking.com, and Homes & Villas by Marriott International.
How large is your rental portfolio?
When inquiring about a vacation rental manager’s portfolio, it’s important to gauge two things: does a large portfolio mean they’re successful and maintain good relationships with homeowners, and how do they scale their operations? Ask if they can provide owner testimonials, case studies, or even put you in touch with a current homeowner to see if their management is a good fit for you.
A good vacation rental manager will scale their operations to ensure all properties receive top-notch care. Ask about the ratio of staff to rental properties in your area. At AvantStay, we have one of the lowest homes-to-employee ratios in the industry, meaning for every home in our collection, we have several employees on the ground and at our headquarters that can give you their full attention.
How do I know my home will be in good hands?
Are you worried about noise complaints from your neighbors? Or wonder who will bring guests fresh linens if requested mid-stay? Be sure to ask potential management companies about maintenance, security, and guest and owner support services offered.
To give you peace of mind, we manage inquiries, vet every guest, and take care of their every need during their stay. Our local operations team manages the maintenance, upkeep, and surveillance, while our housekeeping team professionally cleans your home after every stay in adherence with our premium and CDC-grade cleaning standards. In addition, we provide and install home devices such as smart locks, noise sensors, doorbell cameras, and more, compliments of AvantStay.
Why should I partner with a vacation rental management company?
A full-service vacation rental management company should create a stress-free experience for you. Owning a vacation home can be expensive and time-consuming, so we offer the first hands-off approach for short-term rental owners. We use a proprietary tech suite to power bookings, operationalize in-field management, and activate an elevated guest experience. If you have questions, our team of experts is here to help. Unlock your vacation rental’s full value and get started with our team today.
