September is a wonderful time to explore the United States, as the summer crowds start to dwindle, and the weather becomes more pleasant in many destinations. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural events, or simply want to unwind in a picturesque setting, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are ten of the best places to travel to in September in the USA:
1. Sedona, Arizona: Nestled amidst the stunning red rock formations of Arizona, Sedona is a nature lover’s paradise. In September, the temperatures begin to cool down, making it the perfect time for hiking and exploring the scenic trails. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the famous Chapel of the Holy Cross or experience the healing energy of Sedona’s vortexes.
2. Lake Tahoe, California If you’re looking for a combination of natural beauty and outdoor activities, Lake Tahoe is an excellent choice. September offers pleasant temperatures, ideal for hiking, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the beach. The area is also known for its vibrant fall foliage, adding a touch of magic to the already breathtaking surroundings.
3. Hudson Valley, New York: Located just a few hours north of New York City, the Hudson Valley offers picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and a thriving arts scene. Explore historic sites like the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site or tour the stunning mansions of the Vanderbilt and Rockefeller families. Take a scenic drive along the Hudson River, visit local farmers’ markets, and indulge in farm-to-table cuisine. September is the best time to enjoy apple picking at one of the many orchards in the region.
4. Oregon Coast, Oregon: The Oregon Coast offers a unique blend of rugged beauty and charming coastal towns. In September, the crowds thin out, and the weather remains mild, creating an ideal environment for beachcombing, whale watching, and exploring the scenic coastline. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit iconic sites like Cannon Beach or explore the famous Sea Lion Caves.
5. Charleston, South Carolina: With its rich history, charming architecture, and Southern hospitality, Charleston is a delightful destination to visit in September. The temperatures start to cool down, making it more comfortable to stroll through the city’s historic district or take a horse-drawn carriage ride. Indulge in the renowned Lowcountry cuisine and explore the nearby plantations for a taste of the region’s past.
6. San Diego, California: With its year-round mild climate, San Diego is a fantastic destination any time of the year. In September, you can enjoy the city’s beautiful beaches, visit the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, or explore Balboa Park’s museums and gardens. Don’t forget to indulge in some delicious seafood at the famous Gaslamp Quarter.
These are just a few of the many incredible destinations to consider for a September getaway in the USA. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply want to relax in a picturesque setting, these places offer something for everyone. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey.
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast! After all, it’s the most important meal of the day. Whether you enjoy a hearty meal that gives you tons of energy or you’re just looking for a great cup of coffee and pastry, you’ll be able to find it in Cannon Beach. Discover where to find the best breakfast in Cannon Beach! We’ve listed our picks for the best attractions, cafes, shops, and art galleries along the Oregon Coast! Planning your trip is easy when you use our free Vacation Guide.
The Best Breakfast in Cannon Beach: A Guide
Lazy Susan Cafe
Located in Coaster Square, the Lazy Susan Cafe is an area staple. This family-owned eatery is open six days a week and is known for serving up breakfast favorites like omelets, poached egg specials, and waffles. They even have yummy lunch items and desserts. We promise this restaurant’s great food, cozy atmosphere, and friendly waitstaff will have you coming back for more!
Pig ‘n Pancake
Pig ‘n Pancake is a casual, family-friendly eatery that overlooks downtown Cannon Beach. Here, diners can choose from 35 different breakfast options served all day long – including the owner’s famous homemade pancakes. From buttermilk and sourdough to French batter pancakes, these decadent creations are a must-try during your visit.
Source: Pig ‘n Pancake
Crêpe Neptune
You don’t have to travel all the way to France for an incredible crepe! Crêpe Neptune offers a variety of savory and sweet treats that are sure to satisfy your palate. (Not sure what to order? Try the classic Nutella crepes. They are to die for!) Gluten-free, dairy-free, and buckwheat batter is also available, so you can join in on the fun no matter what your dietary needs are.
Source: Crêpe Neptune
The Wayfarer
At the Wayfarer Restaurant and Lounge, guests can indulge in gourmet dishes that feature local produce and some of the freshest seafood available. This oceanfront eatery boasts unique breakfast items like Dungeness crabmeat benedict, buttermilk biscuits and gravy, and cinnamon French toast. Yum!
Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters
With a myriad of roasts and blends to suit a variety of tastes, Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters is our go-to for a fresh cup of joe. That’s why they’re also one of our favorite coffee shops on the Oregon Coast! All of their coffees are sourced internationally, certified organic, and roasted in small batches. It’s the perfect place to go after indulging in the best breakfast in Cannon Beach.
Source: Stumptown Blogger
Book Your Stay With AvantStay
You know what’s even better than enjoying the best breakfast in Cannon Beach? Staying in the most gorgeous accommodations in town! AvantStay has an amazing selection of top-notch properties in Cannon Beach, as well as in Manzanita, Rockaway Beach, and Arch Cape. No matter the reason for your visit or the time of year, you’ll find just what you need in our inventory of homes. Take a look at our stunning rentals and book today! We look forward to having you.
Planning a February vacation to Key West, Florida? We’ll let you in on a secret — February is one of our favorite months of the year in Key West.
Whether you’re coming for the long President’s Day weekend, celebrating Valentine’s Day, or just planning a getaway, Key West is a great destination every February. Why not escape the cold winter this year and head to Key West? In February, the weather in Key West is an average high of 76 and low of 66, and it’s the month with the lowest amount of rain. For most people who want to escape a chilly winter on the East Coast or Midwest, it’s perfect.
Don’t wait any longer to pack your bags. Here’s our guide to the top things to do in Key West in February.
KEY WEST EVENTS IN FEBRUARY
Valentine’s Day
Plan a romantic getaway to Key West for Valentine’s Day. There are tons of things to do here for couples, whether you prefer visiting historical sites, relaxing on the beach, or enjoying a few happy hours at one of the popular bars. Key West is great because you can just be on island time and enjoy one another’s company. Want to get adventurous? Rent jet skis together! Want to indulge in a great meal? Make a reservation at one of Key West’s best restaurants.
Annual Old Days Art Festival in Key West
February 25-26, 2024
Just off Duval Street in the Truman Annex neighborhood, the Annual Old Island Days Art Festival is a must-visit in February. This massive event attracts nearly 25,000 people and brings more than 100 fine artists to the region. If you’re looking for a new piece to bring home or just want to browse beautiful pieces, this is the event for you.
Source: Key West Food Tours
Book Your Key West Vacation For February 2025
Escape to the Florida Keys with us this February. Browse our Key West vacation rentals and book your stay in the Southernmost Point of the U.S. today.
You want to make the most out of your vacation rental—but how do you do that without exploiting your home? Care for your property so your short-term rental can go the distance! Regular maintenance and upkeep are essential, but making sure that guests respect your home is an important part of running a successful vacation rental. A cared-for home will generate positive reviews, increase bookings, and make you more revenue.
Every AvantStay home is equipped with cutting-edge smart (IoT) technology that remotely monitors everything from entry surveillance to noise to occupancy, all to ensure your home stays safe and protected. Keep reading to discover how AvantStay can prioritize best-in-class care and security for your home!
Complimentary smart technology package
Our monitoring and prevention technology package is added to each home during the onboarding process and installed at no cost to you. This package includes a free keyless entry system, Ring video camera, and NoiseAware and Party Squasher devices. In addition, we abide by strict data privacy laws which govern how guest data must be stored and destroyed, keeping our guests and homeowners safe.
Keyless entry system
Each home is equipped with smart locks for convenience and security that allow us to generate unique codes for each new guest that stays in your home. This facilitates access to the home for guests and housekeeping, and all codes expire once a guest’s stay is complete. Only the intended guests and staff are allowed into your home, giving you complete control.
NoiseAware
NoiseAware is a privacy-safe noise monitoring solution that measures sound decibel levels inside and outside your home. Our on-the-ground team receives real-time alerts if decibel thresholds are exceeded for extended periods and can be dispatched to check on your home. That way, we’re able to maintain appropriate noise levels and keep your neighbors and community happy.
Ring video camera
Ring is the top consumer-rated smart camera solution that protects your home 24/7 with a continuous feed of your property’s entrance. This allows us to monitor the foot traffic at your front door. It comes with two-way voice capabilities and HD video playback.
Persona
All incoming guests are fully vetted during the booking process using Persona, an automated ID verification and fraud prevention solution. Knowing who guests are before they arrive allows us to stop problems before they happen.
On-the-ground support
At AvantStay, our cutting-edge monitoring and prevention technology is integrated into our operational dashboard, giving our Guest Experience team real-time insight into what’s happening at each property. We also have a team of full-time employees in each market available 24/7 for dispatch to your home.
In addition to safety and security benefits for your home, our smart technology systems allow us to maintain a good standing and collaborative relationship within the neighborhoods and jurisdictions we operate in. We can monitor noise levels and ensure our guests don’t engage in any excessive partying that could disturb your neighbors or disrupt your community.
Our team is alerted anytime someone calls the customer service line about your home. We monitor any neighbor complaints coming through so we can watch security trends both at your home and in the market to decide if additional measures need to be taken.
Keep your vacation rental safe and secure with AvantStay
Staying on top of your vacation rental’s security is a lot of work, especially if you don’t live in the area. Why not partner with an experienced vacation rental manager who can keep your home in pristine condition via best-in-class technology and a local team on the ground 24/7?
AvantStay offers end-to-end, flexible management programs to give you peace of mind. From financials to design to maintenance, we take care of your home as if it were our own. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management, and activates an elevated guest experience. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and relax—it’s that simple.
The US short-term rental industry continues to experience the impact of COVID and its new variants in a positive way. Many offices have delayed reopening or done away with offices altogether. Hybrid work schedules are the new normal, allowing more people to work remotely. Short-term rentals are benefiting from the increase of flex work, with more long weekend and long-term stays (trips over 28 days). According to AirDNA, long-term stays make up more than 15% of bookings, which has remained steady since the beginning of the pandemic.
Flex work is allowing people to do their job from wherever they choose, which has been disrupting traditional seasonal patterns in many markets like Coachella Valley and Scottsdale. Short-term rental owners in these markets are experiencing increased demand, higher ADRs, and more revenue year-round, largely due to remote workers’ flexibility.
So, what does this mean for you and your short-term rental? You should capitalize on the flex-work movement by accommodating remote workers in your vacation rental. By creating a remote workspace (and promoting it in your listing) you can attract more flex-work travelers who are likely to extend their stay and work comfortably from your short-term rental. Check out our vacation home designs and tips for creating the perfect remote workspace for your guests.
Use multifunctional pieces and small spaces
While a desk is ideal, it’s not your only option when creating a remote workspace. Side tables and bookshelves can be transformed into a desk with the right setup; all you need is enough surface area for a computer and supplies, and room for a chair to fit comfortably.
Not all short-term rentals have a spare room that can be turned into an office. Set up your remote workspace in a bedroom corner, under a staircase, or any nook where a desk can fit–just be sure it can function without getting in the way, connect to the internet, and receive natural light.
Splurge on a comfortable chair
A desk chair can make or break your remote work experience, especially if you’re sitting for long hours. No one wants to be uncomfortable while working, so invest in an ergonomic chair that will support your guests’ posture and maximize comfort. Select a chair with adjustable lumbar support, as well as an adjustable seat and armrests so guests can choose what’s best for them. Also, consider purchasing a laptop stand so guests don’t strain their necks by looking down.
Purchase shelves for storage and artwork
If your desk doesn’t have built-in storage or if you don’t have room for additional storage like drawers or filing cabinets, opt for floating shelves. Shelves are a great way to save floor space, declutter, and add some personality to the room. Provide baskets or boxes with additional office supplies, along with empty ones for guests to hide their extra chargers and cords. This will help guests get organized and ready to work without feeling cramped and out of place.
You can also use the shelves to decorate the workspace and spark creativity. Help the space feel more inviting by placing some artwork, books, or plants on the shelves. Adding a bit of color goes a long way.
Be mindful of the backdrop and lighting
If you can, position the desk to be in front of a non-distracting background. Think solid walls or bookshelves and not an open area with lots of foot traffic. Also, try to set up the remote workspace in a place that gets a decent amount of natural light. Natural light not only decreases drowsiness, reduces eye strain, and increases productivity, but is more flattering than artificial lighting on video calls.
Bring the outdoors inside with houseplants
Brighten up your remote workspace with a few houseplants. Plants not only purify the air and act as a living decoration, but can help lower stress levels and boost productivity. Plants also provide visual and sound barriers which can help separate your workspace from the rest of the room or area. Go for low-maintenance plants that are safe for pets so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Design for flex workers
The way in which people work and travel is changing, and you should prepare your vacation home to reap the benefits. More flex workers are traveling year-round and booking longer stays to work remotely, which means higher daily rates and more revenue for you. Capture flex workers’ attention by showcasing your short-term rental’s workspace in your listing.
Don’t have an eye for design? When you partner with AvantStay, you get access to our award-winning interior design team and services—free of charge! Our designers review every home added to our portfolio and create memorable and inspiring designs that transform spaces and increase value. We purchase the furniture so you don’t have to spend a dime, and arrange bedrooms and common spaces to maximize occupancy. Let us do the heavy lifting and work with you to create the perfect remote workspace for your guests.
If you’re interested in learning more about our vacation rental management and design services, our team is ready to help. Get started today!
Ready to make a splash? If you’re ISO of the ultimate decompression session, there’s nothing quite like a vacation rental complete with your very own infinity pool. Whether you’re looking to escape your everyday life or just want to spruce up your IG feed, these AvantStays with infinity pools are the perfect place to do so. Let’s dive in.
1. Pinot Point – Temecula
A stay at Pinot Point calls for a glass of Pinot. Experience Temecula the way it was meant to be – infinity poolside at a sprawling estate with luxe amenities like an outdoor bar and grill, ping pong table, and a hot tub with views for days.
2. Syrah – Sonoma
Welcome toSyrah, a proper Sonomastay complete with a roomy deck, loungers, and, of course, an infinity pool. If you’re into interior design, this one’s for you. You’ll love everything about this home’s style – from its open floor plan to plush furnishings, large windows, and French doors.
3. Sunbeam – Scottsdale
Looking to cross Scottsdale off your bucket list? Why not do so via the infinity-poolside at Sunbeam? This Mediterranean hilltop oasis features panoramic views of its AZ surroundings, stunning interior design, and a hot tub perfect for cooling off after a long day of hiking at any of the nearby parks.
4. Casa del Arbol – Temecula
Tuscany meets Temecula at Casa del Arbol, this star-studded stay located in the rolling hills of our favorite part of wine country. It’s one of our faves for its pool, terrace, private hiking trail, and basketball court.
We’re not the only ones that have a soft spot for this stay – Casa del Arbol was featured on the Emmy award-winning TV show, Staycation! Click here to see the video.
5. Warhol – Temecula
So you have a lot of friends? Take them to Warhol. This Temecula vacation rental can fit up to 28 guests. We’re not even sure if a group text can sustain that many people, but if you’ve got that many friends, cheers to you. This stay boasts an infinity pool, hot tub, pool table, ski ball table, shuffleboard, ping pong table, fire pit, balcony, and tons of board games.
6. Belleza – Sonoma
Bellissima? No, we said Belleza. Say hello to Sonoma at this hilltop home with a plentiful selection of outdoor seating, an outdoor grilling lounge, and ping pong. Enjoy multiple balconies, an inner courtyard, floor-to-ceiling windows, a chef’s kitchen inside, and a stone oven outside. When you’re ready to play, start a game of pool or shuffleboard. Oh, and we almost forgot to say, soak the day away in the infinity pool.
7. Owl’s Nest – Temecula
Ok, last time we’ll flex it, but here’s another stay that made it to Staycation.Owl’s Nest is a Temecula vacation home with room for up to 20 guests. It comes with a foosball table, billiards table, sauna, spa-style dual showers, an infinity pool, and a hot tub. Don’t believe us? Watch the video here.
The inspo doesn’t stop here. Apart from its seamless group travel experience and a plentiful selection of luxury in-app upgrades, AvantStay homes are in primo locations – even more than what we just covered in this article. Click here to see all of our destinations and we’ll see you soon!
It’s officially football season which means that you’re gonna want to have the best seat in the house once it’s time for the big games. Take a look at some of our favorite vacation homes that come with extra cozy movie theaters perfect for broadcasting game day on the largest screen possible so you can see every play in HD.
Paramount Place – Austin, TX
We’re starting off this round-up with a movie theater in the state where everything’s bigger. Paramount Place is the perfect intro to the weird city that is Austin. Stay here for easy access to downtown and all it has to offer. When you’re not watching the game at your personal theater, head outside and walk to the Paramount Theater for showings of old movies in comfy red velvet seats.
Oak and Luna – Big Bear, CA
The category is windows. Come to Oak and Luna for picture-perfect views of the great outdoors. Kick your feet back and relax while you get your game face on in this home’s private theater that has six seats for you and your crew. After a good game, chill out in the hot tub and take in the beauty of Big Bear, CA.
Pine Rise – Smoky Mountains, TN
Welcome to Pine Rise! This home comes with a 12-seat theater, plus it has an impressive four decks, two hot tubs with views of the mountains, and room to fit up to 22 guests. If you’ve been looking for a reason to cross the Smokies off your bucket list, we think you just found it.
Indio Escape – Coachella Valley, CA
Hello, Indio! Come to Indio Escape prepared for lots of outdoor hangs. This home’s backyard has a modern fire pit, pool, hot tub, and dining table perfect for those al fresco moments. The movie room also comes with a mini-arcade – so you get maximum game time.
Grand Contento – Temecula, CA
A true Temecula paradise, Grand Contento brings the “wow” to wine country. Spend days lounging poolside, cheersing to sunsets in the courtyard, or reading a book in the gazebo. When it’s time for kickoff, retreat to the movie theater for a little game day getaway.
Timberline – Lake Tahoe, CA
Bring your A-game to this A-frame. A trip to Timberline entails hot tub seshes, plenty of deck hangs, s’mores by the fire pit, a game or two of billiards, and IG-worthy interior design. This home’s theater comes with 9 seats that recline and provide you with the best game day experience imaginable.
Snowcloud Escape – Park City, UT
This Park City stay comes complete with a gas fireplace, a massive deck with plenty of seating, and an extra-cozy movie theater. Even if you’re not a Utes fan, Snowcloud Escape’s home theater is here to impress with an XL screen and 8 plush seats for those sports-filled days.
Pinot Point – Temecula, CA
You’re scoring big, and it’s not just in the game. Pinot Point is a 5 bedroom home with an infinity pool that pours off into views of the rolling Temecula hills. Make sure you’re stocked up on beer – there’s more than enough seating for everyone to have a “cheers” outside after you’ve spent the game day in this home’s theater with retro movie-theater-styled carpets.
Investing in real estate is an excellent way to generate passive income, build equity, and diversify your investment portfolio. According to a recent Gallup poll, 45% of Americans believe that real estate is the best long-term investment compared to stocks (24%), gold (15%), savings accounts (9%), and bonds (4%). Purchasing an investment property and operating it as a short-term rental can give you an extra cash flow each month. If you’re looking to tap into this lucrative asset class but don’t know where to start, no worries. We’ll cover all the basics on how to finance an investment property, loan requirements, and how a vacation rental management company can help maximize your ROI. Let’s get started.
What is an investment property?
An investment property is real estate purchased to generate income, receive tax benefits, or profit from appreciation. Investment properties are not your primary residence and can be purchased individually or by a pair or group of investors. These properties are often purchased to “flip” by renovating and reselling for profit. Investment properties can also be rented out (on a long or short-term basis) to create a passive income stream.
Types of investment property loans
There are many different types of investment property loans. In order to choose the right loan for you and your investment goals, it’s crucial to understand all of your options and their requirements before contacting a mortgage lender.
In addition, keep in mind that down payments and interest rates are higher for investment properties compared to primary and second home mortgages. The reason being is that lenders view investment properties as more risky and know that if things don’t work out, the borrower will walk away from the investment and keep their primary residence.
Now, let’s break down four popular loans for investment properties so you can choose the best option and maximize your return on investment.
Conventional bank loans
A conventional bank loan is one of the most common loans among real estate investors. These loans are offered by traditional lenders like banks, credit unions, and mortgage brokers. Conventional mortgages follow the requirements set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and aren’t backed by the federal government.
Conventional loans for investment properties can require up to 30% for a down payment. Mortgage lenders also consider the borrower’s credit score, income, assets, and may require up to six months of cash reserves for eligibility.
However, these requirements differ from state to state and among mortgage lenders. For that reason, be sure to research the conventional mortgage qualifications for investment properties in your local market.
Hard money loans
A hard money loan, or a fix-and-flip loan, is a great option for investors who want to renovate a property and resell it for profit in a short amount of time. This is a short-term loan that is often quicker and easier to obtain than a conventional loan. Mortgage lenders will mainly consider the property’s value and potential profitability, along with the borrower’s income and credit score.
Interest rates for hard money loans are greater than conventional loans, and can be as high as 18%. This is because the borrower is typically asking for more than the property is worth to account for repair costs and will likely pay off the loan in a short period of time, usually 12 to 18 months.
Private money loans
Private money loans are offered by individuals, not traditional lenders. These lenders can be friends, family members, fellow real estate investors, or anyone in your network who is able and willing to loan you money for your investment property. Requirements for private money loans vary based on your relationship to the lender, but usually have lower interest rates and negotiable terms. Private money loans will usually have a contract that allows the lender to foreclose on the investment property if the borrower doesn’t make loan payments in the given timeframe.
Home equity
You can use home equity to finance an investment property with a home equity loan, home equity line of credit (HELOC), or cash-out refinance. These entail using money from an asset you already own (your primary residence) to help secure your investment property. The downside to using home equity is that your primary residence is collateral if you can’t make loan payments.
A home equity loan is a lump sum from your mortgage lender that is paid back in monthly installments. Interest rates and monthly payments are fixed. Many mortgage lenders allow you to borrow up to 85% of your home’s equity.
With a HELOC, you’re using a line of credit secured by your home equity that you can borrow from and repay in monthly payments, similar to a credit card. HELOCs have a set amount you can borrow each time as needed, as long as you continue to pay it back. HELOCs have variable interest rates which can increase if the prime rate changes.
A cash-out refinance allows you to take out a new mortgage greater than the original amount. The difference between the original mortgage and the new one is paid to you in cash, which you can then use to finance an investment property.
Maximize your ROI with AvantStay
Investment properties provide a great return on investment and passive income for buyers. Now that you have a basic understanding of how to finance an investment property, plan on maximizing your ROI by operating the home as a short-term rental.
If you’re looking to secure an investment property or already have a home that you’d like to run as a short-term rental, consider working with a vacation rental management company. When you partner with AvantStay, we’ll manage your investment to give you peace of mind and maximize your income. We take care of revenue management, marketing and distribution, interior design, guest care, and more so you don’t have to lift a finger. In addition, our flexible management options let you choose what’s right for you and your home; earn guaranteed monthly rent or a monthly revenue share for maximized income.
If you’re interested in learning more about how AvantStay can maximize your return on investment, our team is ready to help. Get started with our vacation rental management experts today!
Gearing up for a summer vacation? Your pup’s part of the family, so it’s only right they come on your vacation, too. Check out these hot (dog) vacation rentals you’re allowed to bring a furry friend or two along with.
Malibu, CA
For the dog who’s down to catch some waves. Cliffridge is a hilltop home that features panoramic Pacific Ocean views up and down the California coast. Head down to El Matador State Beach, located 3 minutes from the estate, where you can spend time building sandcastles and letting your dog run right through them. Hey, “A” for effort.
Sonoma, CA
For the backyard ball-catchers. Come experience Glen, a Northern California hideaway located in the heart of beautiful Santa Rosa. This stay was made for entertaining. Whether you plan on enjoying a BBQ meal, an evening swim, or laughing at your pup getting all those zoomies out of their system in the backyard – Glen’s a great getaway for all.
Scottsdale, AZ
For the adventurous pupper. Fallbrook is a Scottsdale home features an expansive pup-friendly property with its own private horse stables. Bring your four-legged-friend along on a hike through Tonto National Forest, or take a short drive to town to pamper yourself at one of the many wellness spas in the area. It doesn’t get much better than that!
The Berkshires, MA
For the off-the-grid doggo. Looking for the perfect place to disconnect? You found it at Half Moon. Located among the wooded hills of the Berkshires, this vacation home is the ideal woodsy retreat for you and your pup. Play fetch all day, or take a break and head to the charming town of Great Barrington for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Temecula, CA
For the one in need of a puppy palace. Via del Sur is truly an entertainer’s (and doggo’s) delight with plenty of outdoor dining and seating options, both an outdoor fireplace and pit, a hot tub, and even a telescope for stargazing. These unique features pair well with a glass (or two) of local wine from the vineyards, just a short walking distance away – and you know your dog loves a good w-a-l-k.
Austin, TX
For the fancy Fido in your life. If you don’t know, now you know – Austin’s for dog lovers. Paramount Place, a downtown ATX stay features a home theater, expansive game room, rooftop lawn paw-fect for sunbathing, an in-ground jacuzzi, and two fireplaces. When you’re not falling in love with the home itself, walk your pup over to the nearby dog-friendly restaurant, Moonshine Grill.
Lake Tahoe is a dream for hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts. Out of the entire Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Tahoe has always been a spectacularly heavenly region. Lake Tahoe is home to some of the US’s best skiing, water sports, and hiking. North America’s largest mountain lake is home to hundreds of miles of hiking trails including on national forest and state park land. Residents and visitors alike would have trouble seeing it all! If you plan on visiting and hiking Lake Tahoe, see 10 of our favorite trails in the northern and southern regions.
Hiking for beginners – Be prepared, and know your limits
Hiking is a popular pastime for a reason – it’s more accessible than other outdoor sports, it brings you out into the most beautiful parts of the outdoors, and it’s especially healthy for anyone who can do it. No matter where you plan to hike, there are basic principles you should be prepared to follow so you can be best prepared to hit the trailhead. Here are some of my own suggestions before you embark on Lake Tahoe:
Pack extra water
Personally, I always carry a 32 oz water bottle with me to stay hydrated. A good rule of thumb is a half liter of water per hour of hiking, but you may need more depending on the weather. Some trails have water sources, but you should always filter your water if you choose to draw from them.
Always bring snacks
Small, handheld snacks are my first choice for hikes. Whether it is a granola bar or a small bag of carrots, you should bring something nutrient-packed that leaves you feeling more energized.
Take breaks
Don’t be in a rush to get to the end of your trail! Hiking can be taxing on your body, and a quick 5-minute break can be a great chance to hydrate, stretch, and have a quick snack.
Leave no trace
Anything that you take with you on a hike should also be leaving with you when you reach your car to head home. Any trash that you leave adds up, especially in a place like Lake Tahoe which gets millions of visitors every year. Don’t add to the problem; in fact, bonus points if you pick up trash on the trail.
Wear the proper footwear and sun protection
I don’t expect everyone to have ankle-protection hiking boots that cost hundreds of dollars, but you still should put some thought into what you wear before you leave the trailhead. If you don’t have hiking boots, tennis shoes or hiking sandals are veritable options as well. Sun protection is another must: wear sunscreen, a hat, and shades when possible!
Have a plan, share your plan
An important part of being prepared for a hike is knowing where you are going, and what challenges you may face. If you are going on a hike, it’s smart to share your plans with others before you go. Let them know where you’re going, when you plan to hike, and when you expect to be in contact again.
Check trail conditions and closures
This may seem like a no-brainer, but you can’t hike if the trail is closed. Nothing is worse than getting to the trailhead after an hour’s drive and finding that it’s closed. Most trailheads managed by national parks or state forests will have information online on trail conditions and closures.
Pack a first-aid kit
Sometimes things go wrong on the trail. I’ve never had to use my own, but it’s a comfort knowing I’m prepared if I or someone with me gets hurt. Know your options when it comes to emergency situations. If you have cell reception, always immediately call 911 if needed.
Hiking in North Lake Tahoe
You will find that North Lake Tahoe has a small mountain town feel to it throughout the region. You can find anything from stroll-worthy trails to leg-busting steep mountain summit trails. We picked out some of the best hikes for you whether your group is new to hiking or outdoor veterans.
Easy Hikes In North Lake Tahoe
If you are visiting Lake Tahoe with a larger group or with kids, you may want to tackle an easier trail. Fortunately, there are several family-friendly options for easy trails near Kings Beach on Lake Tahoe’s northern shore.
Tahoe East Shore Trail
This out & back trail is great if you are looking for a low-effort but beautiful walk. Tahoe East Shore totals 6 miles long and has 11 beach access spots and 16 viewing stops. Take your kids here and let them explore the coves along the shore of Lake Tahoe to enjoy the water!
Access the trail by parking near Tunnel Creek Cafe and Flume Trail Bikes off Highway 28. The trail goes south and passes through a tunnel after a mile before following the shore for the rest of the trail. This is a great easy trail with little elevation change and plenty of opportunities for exploration.
Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Trail
Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Nature Trail is a flat, 1.3-mile loop trail on the Nevada side of the region that is accessible for kids of all ages and is wheelchair-friendly. Tahoe Meadows features a raised boardwalk over many of the more fragile meadows and small creeks. Find signs along the trail that can teach you about the meadow’s ecosystem around Mt. Rose.
This trail is at 8,740 feet, but almost completely flat. This is a great short hike choice for groups with varied mobility with beautiful surroundings and a chance to see some local wildlife. Leashed dogs are allowed on this trail.
If you are looking for a long-distance hike, this trail also intersects for a short time with the Tahoe Rim Trail, which circles the entire lake on a 165-mile trail.
Summit Lake Trail
Summit Lake Trail is what you might more traditionally consider a hiking trail–nearly 5 miles out & back with 442 ft of elevation gain. Located near Soda Springs, this is a great introductory hike that will take an average of about 2 hours to complete.
You can reach this trail from both the east and westbound Donner Summit Rest Areas on I-80. The westbound rest area has the direct Summit Lake trailhead. From the eastbound rest area, start on the Glacier Meadow Loop and follow the Pacific Crest Trail to pass underneath I-80. Take a right at the next junction for Summit Lake.
Some of our favorite house stays like the Sparrow are nearby the Summit Lake Trail in Truckee–see our availabilityhere.
Harder Hikes in North Lake Tahoe
There are plenty of options if you or your group are looking for a bigger hiking challenge on the north side of Lake Tahoe. These hikes are moderate to hard with more elevation change, sharper incline, and amazing views.
Picnic Rock
If you’re looking for a short but challenging North Tahoe hike, Picnic Rock is a great choice. Located between Truckee and Kings Beach, this 3.2-mile trail gives you a stunning view after a moderate, uphill hike. Picnic Rock very briefly intersects with the Pacific Rim Trail and has good shade most of the way up with leafy views of the lake. This trail is great for kids and, as suggested by its name, serves as a great picnic spot.
Lola Montez Trail
This 6.3-mile hike is located just off the highway in Soda Springs and is a quite popular moderate trail. You will likely see plenty of others on the trail here, but you should have plenty of time to yourself over the 3 hours it takes to finish on average. The streams are prone to being too high to safely cross in the spring, so the best time to go is July through September. This trail doesn’t necessarily have long-distance views of the surrounding area, but it is a challenging walk through the woods to see Lola Montez Lake.
Five Lakes Trail
Five Lakes Trail is on the western side of Lake Tahoe near Olympic Valley. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better accessible trail than Five Lakes in the Granite Chief Wilderness. Although the initial climb can be difficult with virtually no shade, summiting the ridge rewards you with a forested view and access to the five sub-alpine lakes. The lakes are great for swimming or sunbathing. Bring lunch for a fantastic day on this 5-mile out & back trail!
If you are looking to stay nearby this trail, we have several house stays in Olympic Valley and Tahoe City likeMidnight, a beautiful A-frame nestled between towering fir trees.
Mount Rose
If walking through the Tahoe Meadows Trail wasn’t enough for you, keep heading up the road to the Mount Rose Trailhead. This 10-mile trail starts with a gentle incline and takes you through the woods and wildflower meadows before starting ascending another 1,800 ft. Not everyone continues on to summit Mount Rose, but it is well worth it. You can see everything from Reno to the Tahoe Basin from the summit, and on a clear day, you may even be able to see Mount Lassen in California. Mount Rose is one of the tallest peaks in the Lake Tahoe Area, and this trail peaks at 10,776 ft.
Hiking in South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe may be more famous for its nightlife than its hiking, but you don’t have to look hard to find some great trails! Don’t forget to browse our vacation homes in Tahoma near these great hikes.
Mount Tallac
Mount Tallac is not as tall as Mount Rose at 9,735 ft, but to climb Mt. Tallac you will scale a staggering 3,400 ft. over 9.8 miles. As punishing as Tallac Trail is, you will be rewarded with a stunning view of the Lake Tahoe Basin. Plan for this hike to last the whole day so you don’t have to rush and get to take it all in!
Rubicon Trail
One of the most popular hikes along the Lake Tahoe western shore is the Rubicon Trail totaling 16.4 miles round trip. This is your all-day hike that will last on average about 7 hours to complete. The Rubicon Trail is considered a moderately challenging trail and covers most of D.L. Bliss State Park.
Emerald Bay
Emerald Bay State Park is designated as an underwater state park–if you looked beneath the surface of the bay you would find wrecked boats from the early days of this state park and its Emerald Bay Resort. Besides visiting the famous Vikingsholm, you can find several breathtaking hikes around the Emerald Bay.
Eagle Lake Trail
If you’re looking for a hike with stunning views of Emerald Bay, this 2-mile out & back hike gives you several great viewpoints of the Bay on the way to Eagle Lake. Make sure to get to the Eagle Falls Trailhead early, this is a very popular trail for the area.
Cascade Falls Trail
Cascade Falls Trail heads south from the Southern end of Emerald Bay and provides a moderate hike with views of Lake Tahoe, Desolation Wilderness, Cascade Lake, and finally Cascade Falls. At 1.4 miles, it’s a relatively short but beautiful hike. It’s best to visit in the Spring when the waterfalls are at their strongest!
You can find the trailhead for Cascade Falls Trail off Highway 89, behind the Bayview Campground. The parking lot may fill up here, so plan to get there early!
No matter where you choose to hike when you visit Lake Tahoe, AvantStay has a collection of 60+ houses around Lake Tahoe where you can experience an upscale hospitality experience with a home-like feel. Browse our locations in Lake Tahoe to find your perfect vacation spot.
No shoes required. Put on that sandy-toes playlist and get ready for sun-filled days at these dreamy beach and oceanfront vacation homes.
Promenade – Destin, FL
It’s all about what you make it, and here, you can make breakfast for up to 18 guests every morning with the blissed-out beach sunrise in the 30A. Add on the fact that you’re just steps away from the beach, and you’ve created your best trip yet staying at Promenade.
Endless Summer – La Jolla, San Diego, CA
Here for a good time and a long time. This San Diego stay is perfect for those in search of a 10-day getaway with the family. With room for up to 12 guests, everyone’s invited to experience SD the way it was meant to be – with lazy afternoons and surfboard seshes in Endless Summer.
Driftaway – Cannon Beach, OR
Bring on the beach. Whether you’ve got sun-soaked days in mind or are just looking for a proper place to dig through that summer read, Driftaway’s got you covered with a picture-perfect Oregon Coast backdrop.
Hale Kuapapa – Oahu, HI
You had us in Hawaii. Long gone are the days of commuting to the beach. At Hale Kuapapa, the beach is your backyard — and honestly, it doesn’t get much better than that.
Vista – San Diego, CA
Nice to sea you! Vacation in true AvantStay fashion by requesting upgrades and experiences via our app. Our favorite thing to do at Vista is booking a good ole grill sesh with a private chef. Go ahead and request a fridge stocking too, so you don’t ever have to leave this paradise Vista of a stay.
Bay Breeze – Newport Beach, CA
Easy as one, two, Breeze. Bay Breeze features all the amenities you can handle. Enjoy complimentary paddle boards, a basketball court, a game area, a fire pit, and one-of-a-kind people watching via nearby sailboats!
Calla Lily – Malibu, CA
The perfect summer vacation home doesn’t exist… meet Calla Lily. A dream destination meant for all types of vacationers looking for an extended getaway. Whether you’re the type to spend all day laying out, cooling off by swinging on one of the hanging chairs, or making drinks for the whole group, this Malibu stays got you covered for all stays over 31 days.
Poseidon – Charleston, SC
Make your debut in Charleston in style. This home’s two ocean-facing balconies provide the ideal setting for morning coffees, apéritifs, and al fresco dinners with your crew. After a sunny day, head to the hot tub and cheers to the good life at Poseidon in Folly Beach.
Florence – Destin, FL
It’s 5 o’clock somewhere. With plenty of space for you and up to 16 guests, there’s more than enough encouragement for you to get your drink on. Feeling a bit rusty on your bartending skills? Download our app here and you can request to book your very own mixologist when you stay at Florence.
Matador – Malibu, CA
Forgot your sound machine at home? No worries. When you’re at Matador, the crashing waves of the ocean will soothe you right to sleep. Invite up to 8 guests to this Malibu vacation home on the Pacific Ocean.
The sunny days don’t end here! Click here for even more waterfront vacation homes offered by AvantStay.
Austin is a great example of a city that balances urban life with natural landscapes, offering beautiful hiking opportunities to city dwellers. Locals have access to great running trails and visitors can see some of Texas Hill Country’s natural beauty from the comfort of Austin! The Colorado river feeds Austin and has been dammed in two places to create Lake Austin and Lady Bird Lake, a popular kayaking and rowing destination! Read more to see some of the best hikes to escape outdoors in Austin parks this Summer.
Hiking Tips – Be prepared, and know your limits.
Hiking is a popular pastime for a reason—it’s more accessible than other outdoor sports, it can take you out into the most beautiful parts of nature, and it’s, of course, a great way of staying fit and healthy. No matter where you plan to hike or the difficulty of the trail, there are basic guidelines you should follow so you can be best prepared to hit the trailhead. Here are some suggestions before you leave for your hike in Austin:
Pack extra water
First and foremost, always pack water! Carrying a 32 oz Nalgene bottle is the best way to stay hydrated during a long day in nature. Some trails have water sources—just be sure to always filter your water if you choose to draw from them.
Always bring snacks
Throw some small, handheld snacks in your backpack for a surefire way to stay energized on your hike. Whether it’s a granola bar or a bag of carrots, you should bring something light to keep you going. You may not need snacks if you’re exploring a shorter trail, but for treks longer than 2 miles, it’s smart to have a stash of something healthy to fall back on in case you get hungry.
Take breaks
Don’t be in a rush to get to the end of your trail! Hiking can be taxing on your body, and a quick 5-minute break can be a great chance to hydrate, stretch, and have a quick snack.
Carry in–Carry out
The items that you take with you on a hike should leave with you when you reach your car to head home. Any trash that you leave behind adds up, especially in a place like Austin, which gets millions of visitors every year. Don’t add to the problem; in fact, bonus points if you pick up trash on the trail!
Wear the proper footwear and sun protection
You don’t need pricy ankle-protection hiking boots, but supportive shoewear makes all the difference when it comes to traversing through Austin’s terrain. If you don’t have hiking boots, tennis shoes or hiking sandals like Chacos are great options as well. Sun protection is another must: wear sunscreen, a hat, and shades whenever possible!
Have a plan, share your plan
An important part of being prepared for a hike is knowing where you are going and what challenges you may face. If you’re going on a hike, it’s smart to share your plans with others before you go. Let them know where you’re going, when you plan to hike, and when you expect to be in contact again.
Hiking in Austin
One of Austin’s most unique qualities is the opportunity for locals and visitors to start their day downtown and spend the rest of their day forest bathing under massive oaks. There are only a handful of urban environments in the US that allow for such easy outdoor escape and Austin is one of the top. Check out our listing of vacation homes in Austin and our list of convenient trails nearby!
Mount Bonnel
This 5.1-acre mountain park isn’t strictly a hiking trail, but it will give you a decent walk by the time you get to the top of Mount Bonnel. Take the stairs to access several viewpoints of Austin and the Colorado River! This popular date spot has a limestone pavilion sitting at 775 ft of elevation gain.
Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
Mayfield Park is a beautiful spot for a stroll on the edge of Austin proper. This is a popular spot for small weddings around the historic cottages and gardens where peacocks free-roam. The nature preserve beyond has 3 easy walking trails among 21 acres. All 3 trails are less than a mile long but are not paved. This nature preserve is a popular spot for birding, so keep an eye out on your way to Lookout Point to see the river!
Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail
The Ann and Roy Butler trail follows Lady Bird Lake for 10 miles. This urban trail has a crushed granite path and boardwalk over the water that also leads to Zilker Park. Take your dog with you and let them wade in the river when you get to Auditorium Shores on the other end of the trail!
Blunn Creek Preserve
Blunn Creek Preserve is a beautiful stretch of land in South Austin. Follow the Blunn Creek Greenbelt Trail for an easy 1-mile loop around the preserve. This trail can get rugged but is mostly shaded while you traverse rocky terrain and a couple creek crossings. You can find wildflowers, cacti, and views of downtown and St. Edwards University from Blunn Creek. Leave your dogs at home this time, there are no dogs allowed on this trail.
Violet Crown Trail
This 3.4-mile hiking trail is the first segment of a regional trail system in development in central Texas. Start at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center to take in the seasonal blooms before heading off on the Violet Crown Trail through the city of Austin’s Water Quality Protection Lands. The Violet Crown Trail system can take you a whole 13 miles to Zilker Park today, but if you want to stay in the Lady Bird Johnson area you can turn around at the Slaughter trailhead.
Southern Walnut Creek Trail
If you’re in need of a flat-accessible trail run to get some exercise, Southern Walnut Creek Trail in Govalle Park is a great option. The paved path stretches for 10.7 miles in East Austin and is 10 ft wide for plenty of room for bikes, runners, strollers, and wheelchairs. With access from several neighborhoods and off-shoot trails to the YMCA and Austin Tennis Center, this trail is a boon for Austinites to access local recreation.
Slaughter Creek Trail
You’ll find the Slaughter Creek Loop Trail on the other side of Slaughter Creek from the Violet Crown Trail. This 5-mile trail is a favorite for hikers, bikers, and horses alike. While much of this trail is not shaded, you can find a plethora of wildflowers in this area in the spring! Try to go in the morning for cooler weather and avoid crowds on this busy trail. The trail is flat but includes some rocky terrain throughout.
Shoal Creek Trail
The Shoal Creek Greenbelt trail is one of the oldest urban trails in Austin, Texas. Originally built in the 1960s, it connects with the Lady Bird Lake Trail on the Colorado River and follows the Shoal Creek north ending at Seider Springs at 3.7 miles long. This trail switches between gravel, packed dirt, and paved along the entire route, but it passes through Duncan Park and Pease park along the way and is easy enough to hop on and off throughout the trail. Hop onto this trail at Pease Park and use Shoal Creek as a loop trail or challenge yourself to the entire trail starting at Shoal Beach!
Northwest Austin
If you’re more into getting away from urban living, you may be more interested in the trails northwest of Austin. Enjoy sprawling trails with a smaller crowd! If you’re looking to stay in Northwest Austin, browse our house stays to make the most of these trails!
River Place Panther Hollow and Canyon Trail
Strap on your hiking boots for the River Place Nature Trail in West Lake Hills, Texas. Known to many as one of the hardest trails in Austin, you’ll need to bring plenty of water as you encounter plenty of inclines up and down along River Place’s 5-mile out-and-back hike. This trail is managed by the local neighborhood, which charges a $10 trail maintenance fee per hiker. Bring a credit card, they do not take cash!
St. Edwards Park
St. Edwards Park is a gorgeous 80-acre park that is a partial preserve. The non-preserved area is a great dog-friendly hiking spot with fewer crowds but beautiful scenery. If you take Hill Trail you can find cactus patches among the wildflowers and waterfalls along Bull Creek. You can easily fit in a 2-3 mile hike here for a decent escape into a natural area. Take the Hill Trail up to St. Edwards Park Overlook for a view!
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
Seated on the western edge of Austin proper, the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve contains 227 acres of natural wildlands that aims to educate visitors on the importance of protecting their local flora and fauna. You can bring your youngsters to the educational attractions along this network including microscopes, bird-watching stations, and more! Visitors can easily access this hidden gem of a preserve from the Capital of Texas Highway to walk the branchwork of trails on the southern end of the preserve.
The outer loop of the network of trails is 1.8 miles long, but I would highly recommend exploring the other trails here. These trails are considered easy with some inclines. Find the basin overlook for a great view of the preserve and follow Bee Creek to find your own gem of a waterfall. Look out for the Golden-Cheeked Warbler, an endangered native species to this preserve! This park does not allow dogs and requires that you reserve a hiking slot for your group ahead of time. Check their website for openings and pricing!
Turkey Creek Trail
Visit Emma Long Metropolitan Park to hike the Turkey Creek Trail! Bring your dog for some off-leash fun along an almost 3-mile out-and-back hike. Follow the creek bed for a couple spots to cool off on your way to explore side trails and see the view from the bluffs! Emma Long Metropolitan Park also has a motocross trail that is mountain bike-friendly.
No matter where you choose to hike when you visit Austin, AvantStay has a collection of unique rentals around the city where you can experience an upscale hospitality experience with a home-like feel. Browse our locations in Austin to find your perfect vacation spot.
If you’re looking for the best tequila cocktails, you’ve come to the right place. With travel in our blood (plus, a hint of lime and salt), we’ve rounded up our top tequila drinks inspired by our favorite destinations. Try making some of these easy tequila cocktails that you could whip up right at home—or your home away from home when you stay with us!
Up in the Mountains
Tahoe Blue Margarita
Inspired by the vibrant blue waters of Lake Tahoe, the Tahoe Blue Margarita is the perfect drink to enjoy out on the lake while soaking up the sunshine. Lucky for you, we’ve got the ultimate place to take in the view—Lakeview by AvantStay. This 5-bedroom vacation rental offers a panoramic sight of Lake Tahoe, making it the perfect spot to sip on your margarita that’s as blue as the view.
Ingredients:
1.5 oz Tequila
1 oz Blue Curacao
1/2 oz Triple Sec
1 oz Lime Juice
Salt for the rim
Recipe:
Using a cocktail shaker, add one-half to one cup of ice to your salted glass. Next, pour in 1.5 oz tequila (our favorite is Lo Siento), 1.5 oz of triple sec, 1 oz of lime juice, 1 oz Blue Curacao and shake vigorously.
Out in the Country
Sangriarita
Meet the Sangriarita—where tequila meets wine country! This hybrid of two fan favorites incorporates both sangria and the classic margarita. Enjoy this perfect mashup of a tequila cocktail at our home Via del Sur in Temecula, California.
Ingredients
1.5 ounces tequila
1 ounce Triple Sec
¾ ounce lime juice
Splash of sangria
Garnish with orange slice
Recipe:
Using a cocktail shaker, add one-half to one cup of ice. Next, pour in 1.5 oz of tequila, 1 oz of triple sec, ¾ oz of lime juice, and shake vigorously.
Pour mix over ice leaving space for sangria
Top glass with a splash of sangria of your choice
Garnish with an orange slice
Down in the Desert
Spicy Bloody Maria
We’re heating things up in the desert with our Spicy Bloody Maria. Similar in flavor to the popular Bloody Mary, the Bloody Maria uses tequila rather than vodka. It’s the perfect cocktail to kickstart your day before lounging around in the sun. Stay at our Joshua Tree vacation home, Smoketree, and take a dip into the plunge pool when you need to cool off from the heat.
Ingredients
2 ounces tequila
4 ounces tomato juice
1/2 ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1/2 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
1/2 tablespoon horseradish
2 dashes Tabasco sauce
1 pinch celery salt
1 pinch black pepper
Garnishh with lime wedge, lemon wedge, and cucumber spear
Recipe:
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add tequila, tomato juice, lemon juice, lime juice, horseradish, Tabasco, celery salt and black pepper, and shake vigorously.
Pour mixture over fresh ice
Garnish with lemon, lime, and celery stick
Along the Coast
Tequila Sunrise
This cocktail looks exactly like the sunrises you’ll find at our home Ocean’s Eye in Folly Beach, South Carolina, located right outside the city of Charleston. It may look intimidating, but the Tequila Sunrise is one of the easiest drinks to make. Try out the recipe below and don’t forget to grab the sunblock—this is one drink you’ll love to enjoy when you have your toes in the sand.
Ingredients:
4 oz Orange Juice
2 oz Tequila
1 oz Grenadine
Orange Slices and Maraschino Cherries to garnish
Recipe:
Pour the orange juice and tequila over ice
Add 1 oz of grenadine without stirring (for the sunrise effect!)
Garnish with an orange slice and maraschino cherry
It’s Pride time! Let’s get to it with a super special list of all the best places to stay. Whether you’re attending your hometown’s pride parade, or are making a journey to a special city to see one, this round-up has all the stays to guarantee a rowdy and rockin’ Pride 2025, all the way from April to August.
Gable – Sonoma, CA
Sonoma County Pride is held June 3rd at Santa Rosa’s Courthouse Square. With performances from Spencer Day and Paul’s Drag Race star Miss Rock M Sakura, you’ll be sure to sashay the day away before a night of relaxation at your Sonoma vacation rental, Gable.
Serenity – Key West, FL
Key West Pride is held this year from June 7-11th. Enjoy the sunny island and all its daytime activities. Try a trip to the Key West Butterfly Conservatory or maybe even a sunset sail. After you’ve danced your little heart out, head back home to Serenity or any of our other Key West vacation rentals.
Hollywood Hello – Los Angeles, CA
LA’s Pride is held this year on June 9th and 10th. This year, be extra as hell with a stay a Hollywood Hello in the (duh) Hollywood Hills. It’s got a private pool, a courtyard hot tub, and a luxe firepit lounge tucked near a gorgeous fountain, so after you’ve lost your voice to screaming songs a little too loud, you’re sure to find your zen again with a nice decompression session outdoors.
Bourbon – Nashville TN
From June 24-25 you’ve got full rein to head on down to Nashville’s Pride Parade where you’ll find over 225 vendors for local nonprofits, artists, and businesses celebrating freely! And when y’all have had enough of all that downtown hustle and bustle, head back to this cozy stay at Bourbon – a Nashville vacation rarity where you’re close enough for your Ubers to not be a million bucks.
Peak 8 – Breckenridge, CO
Year of the rabbit so you’re in your snow bunny era, huh? One of the best parts about visiting Colorado in June is the fact that you get to witness all of the trees, flowers, and plants in full bloom. When you’re not visiting one of the many local hot springs, take a day trip from your Breckenridge AvantStay, like Peak 8, and come as you are to Denver’s 14-block Pride celebration! The 2023 Coors Light Denver Pride Parade is held June 25th.
Camden – San Diego, CA
With over 250,000 cheering supporters, the San Diego Pride Parade at the Hillcrest Pride Flag is a truly liberating place to express yourself. From July 8-16th, you’ll find the streets of Hillcrest blossoming with beautiful rainbows from head to toe. After a long day of parading, enjoy your stay at Camden – a beautiful bungalow located in Cardiff by the Sea.
Ramsey – Austin, TX
Austin’s Pride Paradewill be held on August 12th. Everything’s bigger in TX, so this fest features live music, dance, and drag performances and is the largest of all ATX’s parades. When you’ve danced your little heart out, head back to Ramsey where you and your besties will have plenty of room to spread out – from the expansive front yard to the pool and al fresco dining.
As the leading vacation rental management company, we understand what matters to homeowners: maximized revenue, best-in-class care, and transparency–all of which we deliver with our proprietary tech suite. Our tech-enabled platform is built for hospitality and puts you in complete control.
AvantStay homeowners stay in the know with our owner portal and operational apps that provide property insights, work order management visibility, activate an elevated guest experience, and more. Keep reading to discover how our vertically integrated software platform takes vacation rental management to the next level!
Lighthouse
With Lighthouse, our digital owner portal, you can easily access reservations, work orders, statement details, and view your home’s performance dashboard. You can even book a stay for yourself or friends and family!
Features:
Points of contact information
Availability calendar
Active listings
Property and performance level statistics
Owner/friends and family stays
Work order details/status
Owner documents
Stay
Stay, our booking platform, focuses on discoverability while providing a seamless guest booking experience. Potential guests can browse property pages featuring a gallery view of your home’s interior and exterior, highlighting its experiential aspects and unique qualities.
Features:
Home info and room details
Amenities and experiential features
House rules
Local area info
Guest wallets for redeeming travel credits
“Book now, pay later” options
Butler
The Butler app makes it simple to manage guest bookings. Guests can view entry instructions, requests upgrades and experiences, read house manuals, find local recommendations, or contact our 24/7 support team all from their phones. You’ll never have to deal with another late-night guest request again!
Features:
Booking overviews
Entry information
House manuals
Value-added service requests
Voyage
Voyage provides our internal team with insights and details for each home, enabling us to provide an excellent level of service to both owners and guests. Voyage allows us to manage listings and reservations, monitor revenue in real-time, and gives visibility into the unique characteristics of each home.
Features:
Reservation details
Market and property level statistics
Booking channel statistics and ratings
Revenue and performance projections
Fresh
We’re able to keep a pulse on quality control with our dedicated vendor management app, Fresh. This app is integrated into our operational processes and systems and serves as a hub for all field operations ticketing, scheduling, and dispatching—the enhanced level of quality and service for your home that AvantStay is known for.
Features:
Housekeeping schedules
Cleaning and inspection checklists
Cleaning reviews
Workflow documentation
Forward-thinking vacation rental management
Choosing a vacation rental management company that can evolve with changing guest preferences and travel booking trends is key to your success as a homeowner. Why not partner with the fastest-growing and top-rated hospitality brand in the industry?
Technology underpins our entire business, from the customer journey to internal operations, allowing us to scale seamlessly and provide a superior experience for homeowners and guests. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management and activates an elevated atmosphere for guests. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and reap the rewards—it’s that simple.
Are you on the hunt for a vacation rental management company that goes above and beyond for you and your home? Look no further! When you partner with AvantStay, you’ll receive best-in-class care, guaranteed. To do so, we built a national brand and hospitality platform designed for the way people travel today, all while maintaining a local presence. We provide a hotel-like experience with the comforts of a home, supported by our proprietary, tech-enabled operational dashboards, and an industry-leading ratio of dedicated on-the-ground field teams that keep your home in excellent condition year-round. Keep reading to discover how AvantStay provides an exceptional homeowner experience, premium home care, and a first-class experience for guests.
Exceptional homeowner experience
Our top priority is to simplify the short-term rental process for our homeowners and create lasting memories for our guests. As an AvantStay homeowner, you’ll receive unmatched personalized service and visibility from our dedicated local support teams and tech-enabled platform.
Industry-leading home-to-team ratio
We have a best-in-class ratio of local support to homes with 24/7 dispatching. Each AvantStay home is assigned three main contacts: an Owner Experience Manager, local Area Manager, and a Regional Manager, so you always have a point of contact and quick response times. Our local teams are also available 24/7 for dispatch to your home within 45 minutes, should any issues arise.
Tech-enabled platform
AvantStay homeowners stay in the know with our proprietary tech suite that provides property insights, work order management visibility, and better guest management and home protection. With Lighthouse, our digital owner portal, homeowners can view all information related to property bookings, view revenue information for reservations, access monthly statements, and more!
Premium care for your vacation rental home
To ensure that every AvantStay property is meticulously cared for, we employ a highly trained staff with the highest standards of professionalism and care. At your home, our local operations teams manage maintenance, upkeep, and surveillance, while our housekeeping team professionally cleans after every stay in adherence with CDC cleaning standards and our 100-point cleaning checklist. We also have pre-negotiated rates with top local vendors that we know and trust, saving you money on maintenance costs.
Proactive home care
We like to be proactive, not reactive. Every quarter, we conduct a full inspection and audit with seasonal considerations to prevent issues before they arise, ensuring your home is cared for and maintained. In addition, we perform three indoor/outdoor home inspections between each guest stay: a post-guest checkout inspection, an inspection of clean, and a pre-arrival inspection.
Preferred vendor network
We have local pre-vetted vendors at negotiated wholesale rates, allowing you to increase profits. Our boots-on-the-ground team maintains relationships with vendors in every market, allowing us to deliver consistent, premium service levels.
We’re also able to keep a pulse on quality control with our dedicated vendor management app, Fresh. The app is integrated with our operational processes and systems and provides work order approval flows, instructions, and quality standards for all field operations.
Smart technology package
Our monitoring and prevention (IoT) technology package is added to each home during the onboarding process and installed at no cost to homeowners. This includes a keyless entry system, Ring video camera, and NoiseAware and Party Squasher devices. We can monitor noise levels and ensure our guests don’t engage in any excessive partying that could disturb your neighbors or disrupt your community.
Our technology package is also integrated into our operational dashboard, giving our Guest Experience team real-time insight into what’s happening at each property. Our team is alerted anytime someone calls the customer service line about your home. We monitor any neighbor complaints coming through so we can watch security trends both at your home and in the market to decide if additional measures need to be taken.
First-class guest experience
We set the new standard for vacation rentals by delivering a consistent, high-quality vacation experience. We give guests all the amenities of a hotel, paired with the comfort of a private home. One of the ways we’re able to do this is with our app. Guests can request upgrades and experiences via our app to book a private chef or in-home massages, request fridge stocking, schedule mid-stay cleans, and more. In addition, our local partnerships offer guests an opportunity to experience any destination like a local with personalized recommendations and exclusive discounts.
Partner with the vacation rental experts
Employing a combination of our best-in-class care, streamlined back-end operations and technology, and elevated hospitality brand, AvantStay helps you earn more revenue than any other property management company. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s returns—it’s that simple.
Every 4th of July, cities across the country celebrate the birth of American independence with vibrant festivals and dazzling fireworks. Many families decide to celebrate the holiday from home, but AvantStay invites you to spend Independence Day with us this year and have a getaway at one of our special destinations. Whether you want to watch firework displays from Florida beaches or on the cobblestone streets of historic Charleston, AvantStay offers premier vacation homes in 35 destinations throughout the country. There are hundreds of places to go for the Fourth of July, so we are here to help you narrow down the list to five cities that offer classic Independence Day celebrations in good old-fashioned American style!
San Diego, CA
San Diego offers a fantastic 4th of July celebration for the entire family in sunny California. The city comes alive with a festive Fourth of July parade and the largest fireworks display on the West Coast. Families can also celebrate together at famous family attractions like Legoland with live music, games, and food.
Charleston, South Carolina, is a Southern city entrenched in history, so what better place to celebrate American independence? Join the party of live music, delicious BBQ dishes, and spectacular fireworks at beautiful Riverfront Park. Or celebrate at the most patriotic location in South Carolina at the historic USS Yorktown aircraft carrier. For the ultimate family fun, checkout some of the beautiful beaches that Charleston offers.
If you are searching for other places to go on the 4th of July in the South besides Charleston, we recommend Nashville. The world-class Music City, it only makes sense that Independence Day is celebrated with live music at the Let Freedom Sing festival. There is plenty of fun for the family here, with kid-friendly activities, games, and music. Nashville will conclude its celebration with the city’s largest July fireworks show ever!
If you want to spend your 4th of July basking in the Florida sunshine, consider taking a road trip to Panama City Beach. This charming beach town celebrates Independence Day all week long with four incredible fireworks shows during the Real Fun Fourth. In addition to the fireworks, you can find plenty of family-friendly dining, shopping, live music, and entertainment to share your Fourth of July celebration together.
Scottsdale, Arizona, offers the perfect 4th of July celebration for families away from the hustle and bustle of Phoenix. The biggest event is the 4th of July celebration at Westworld which offers the ultimate all-American experience. You can watch live performances, feast on barbeque buffets, try bull riding, get your face painted, and play exciting games. The night ends with spectacular fireworks against the picturesque McDowell Mountains.
Looking for Places to Go for the 4th of July? AvantStay Has You Covered!
No matter where you decide to take your family this 4th of July, AvantStay offers the perfect vacation homes for every group. Our properties are designed for large groups and families, fully equipped with anything you might need, including in-app upgrades and experiences like fridge stocking via the AvantStay app. The places to go for the 4th of July are endless when you choose to vacation with AvantStay!
Whether you’re looking for a getaway place to sunbathe, surf, or simply take in incredible views of the seaside, San Diego has a perfect beach for you. With more than 70 miles of coastline, the city offers a wide variety of beaches, each with its own unique character. From bustling Mission Beach to the secluded Black’s Beach, there’s a beach in San Diego to suit every taste.
So, where should you start your search for the perfect beach? Well, we’ve put together the complete guide to San Diego beaches to help you out. So, keep reading for a list of all the best beaches in this sunny southern California city.
1. Mission Beach
San Diego is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in California, and Mission Beach is one of the best. Though it’s not as well known as La Jolla or Newport, it’s a favorite among locals because it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the sunshine.
The wide, sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing, and the gentle waves make it an idyllic spot for swimmers and surfers. Next to the sandy shores, you’ll find a boardwalk perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. And, when you work up an appetite from spending a day in the sun having fun, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby to satisfy your hunger.
Plus, Mission Beach is situated next to Belmont Park, so it’s easy to get to, and there’s plenty of parking.
2. La Jolla Shores
La Jolla Shores’ wide, sandy beach stretches for more than a mile, and the warm water is perfect for swimming, surfing, and kayaking. La Jolla Cove, home of “Seal Rock,” draws locals and visitors alike to watch San Diego’s seals and sea lions basking in the sun. La Jolla is also a fantastic place to snorkel, thanks to the clear water and abundance of marine life.
In addition to the beach and cove, La Jolla Shores has an abundance of tidal pools that draw people in, providing a close-up look at sea stars, crabs, and other creatures native to the Pacific coast. La Jolla Shores also features several excellent restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it the perfect place to spend a day or a week. Stay at Vista, an elegant home perched on the hills of La Jolla and take in the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
3. Torrey Pines State Beach
Torrey Pines State Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline in San Diego that happens to be a state park. Located just north of Torrey Pines State Reserve, the beach is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and tranquil lagoon.
The area is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world, who come to enjoy its many facilities and attractions. These include picnic areas, hiking trails, and a variety of water sports. The beach is also home to many unique plant and animal species, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Our esteemed home with a pool, Romero, is just steps away from Torrey Pines State Beach.
4. Pacific Beach
If you’re looking for a laid-back beach neighborhood in San Diego, Pacific Beach is the place for you. This beach community is popular with sunbathers and surfers alike, and you’ll find plenty of trendy hotel bars and casual cafes lining the boardwalk.
In the surrounding streets and along Mission Boulevard, you’ll find many shops, boutiques, eateries, and bars that cater to a younger crowd.
Unlike the other beach spots, Pacific Beach offers more of a community feel since it’s in the middle of the neighborhood. However, the beach still offers a relaxed place to enjoy the sun, sand, and ocean.
5. Del Mar City Beach
Del Mar City Beach is one of the most popular beaches in San Diego. Located just north of downtown, the beach offers beautiful views of the city skyline. The sand is clean and well-maintained, and there are lifeguard stations located throughout the beach that provide maps of the area.
The beach is also a great place to catch some waves, as it’s one of the few beaches in San Diego that offers consistent surf. For those looking for a more relaxing experience, Del Mar City Beach also has many restaurants and bars, making it the perfect spot to grab a bite or watch the sunset.
In addition to the sand and sun, Powerhouse and Seagrove are two of the beach’s coastal parks, providing excellent spots for picnics and BBQs.
6. Black’s Beach
Black’s Beach is one of the best-kept secrets in San Diego. This secluded section of the beach is situated beneath the bluffs of Torrey Pines, providing stunning ocean views.
Although it is technically part of Torrey Pines State Beach, Black’s Beach feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. However, the beach is also attractive to surfers who flock to the beach for the winter waves.
Because of the beach’s seclusion, Black’s Beach has also become a well-known nude beach, although you don’t have to be naked to visit. Visitors can sunbathe, swim, surf, or simply take a walk along the coast.
7. Flat Rock Beach
In Torrey Pines State Beach, Flat Rock Beach is a great place to spend a day in San Diego. There’s plenty of space to spread out, and the beach is well-known for its cleanliness and steep bluffs that provide breathtaking views of the Pacific Coast.
The beach has plenty of amenities to keep you entertained, including a playground, volleyball courts, and a picnic area. The clear blue water is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
If you get tired of the water or want to shake out your legs, you can hike either the Beach Trail or Broken Hill Trail, both of which take you on a loop around the beach and up the cliffs for panoramic views.
8. Ocean Beach City Beach
If you’re looking for a laid-back beach town with great surfing and tasty food, you’ll want to head to Ocean Beach. This southern California gem is located just north of Point Loma and has a busy local scene.
You’ll find people surfing, sunbathing, and taking a stroll along the pier. Plus, if you head to the north end of the beach, you’ll find yourself at Dog Beach, where you can frolic with some pups.
The vibe here is very vintage and groovy, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. In addition to the great atmosphere, you’ll also find excellent dining and microbrews, and when the sun goes down, the nightlife picks up.
9. Playa Pacifica on Mission Bay
Playa Pacifica Park is a great place to enjoy the sunny California weather with a protected beach located on Mission Bay’s eastside. This protected beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. In addition, it features a large grassy area ideal for picnicking, playing games, or just relaxing.
The best part of Playa Pacifica Park is its location; it’s situated right in the heart of San Diego, so you can enjoy all the city has to offer while still getting away from the hustle and bustle. The whole park has beautiful views of Mission Bay and is a great place to watch the boats go by.
10. Encinitas Beach
Encinitas Beach is a beautiful, serene beach that’s perfect for a day of relaxing and enjoying the incredible views. The park sits just off Highway 101, but the cliffs and limited access points make it feel more secluded. The tidal pools are also a hit with the kids, providing much to explore and splash around in.
This beach is also one of the cleaner beaches in the area, with spotless bathrooms and showers just off the sand so that you can rinse off before heading home. So whether you’re looking to soak up some sun, take a dip in the ocean, or just enjoy a peaceful stroll along the shore, Encinitas Beach is worth a visit.
11. Coronado Beach
If you’re looking for a breathtaking beach to relax on while in southern California, look no further than Coronado Beach, otherwise known as Central Beach.
Located just across the bay from the city, the miles of breezy coastline provide a family-friendly haven. The sand is also incredibly soft and clean, making it a perfect place to sunbathe or build sandcastles with the kids. In addition to being well-maintained, Coronado Beach offers plenty of amenities, including showers, restrooms, and picnic tables.
Visitors can also rent chairs, umbrellas, and boogie boards. The water is clean and clear, perfect for swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding.
12. Imperial Beach
Just five miles north of the Mexican border, Imperial Beach is a residential beach city in San Diego that offers various activities for residents and visitors. The four-mile stretch of beach is excellent for surfing, sport fishing, beach volleyball, and even horseback riding along the sandy shore.
As a part of a revitalization effort in the area, Imperial Beach is home to a boardwalk overlooking the beach. On the boardwalk, you’ll find benches, bike lanes, and a spacious lane for taking a stroll. Plus, you can travel just a short way down the beach to the Tijuana Sloughs, one of the most popular surf spots in the area.
13. Oceanside Harbor Beach
Harbor Beach is a great place to spend the day, whether you’re looking to catch some waves or just soak up the sun. The beach offers plenty of activities for everyone, from surfing and volleyball to simply relaxing on the sand. And when you’re ready for a break from the beach, the adjacent Oceanside Harbor has plenty to offer.
You can go sailing, deep-sea fishing, whale watching, or kayaking. Or, if you want to explore the area, you can stroll around the marina and visit the sea lions. There’s also a variety of shops and restaurants in the harbor, so you can easily find something to eat or drink.
14. Solana Beach
The Solana Beach coastline is stunning. The cliffs are beautiful, and you can only access Fletcher Cove from a path here. The cove offers seclusion, white sand, and the ability to walk quite a ways both north and south. Plus, you don’t have to pay for parking at Fletcher Cove.
Besides the cove, Solana Beach features the main beach area for those who want to lounge in the sand and swim in the waves and Seascape Surf Park for visitors looking to take their boards out.
15. Swami’s Beach
Swami’s Beach is one of San Diego’s most attractive spots for surfers. This secluded spot is located just south of La Jolla and is known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear water, and lush vegetation. Besides surfing, visitors can enjoy various activities at Swami Beach, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and exploring the tidal pools.
The beach is also a popular spot for picnics and barbecues, so you can enjoy a quaint lunch while watching surfers hit the waves. Several picturesque trails lead to San Elijo State Beach and the Boneyards below the Encinitas Bluffs, making it the perfect place to enjoy a day in nature.
16. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a gorgeous 68-acre park located on the western edge of Point Loma in San Diego. The park features stunning cliffs, dramatic ocean views, and a variety of natural habitats that allow visitors to take in a variety of plant and animal species and several cultural and historical resources.
Visitors can hike along miles of trails, relax on one of the many scenic overlooks, or even swim in the ocean; however, the water is probably too rough for swimming. Luckily for travelers with kids, there is an abundance of tide pools here in case your kiddies want to splash around. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a special place where people can connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
Final Thoughts
San Diego is a fantastic place to spend a summer vacation, and with this guide to its beaches, you’ll find the perfect spot for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or join in on the action-packed fun, San Diego has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for some sun and sand.
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.
How do we turn a vacation rental from average to an AvantStay? In our Ask the Expert series, we sit down with different members of the AvantStay team to learn just that. For our first installment of the series, we take a look into how AvantStay transforms vacation rentals with award-winning design services.
We asked our Design Lead, Nic Kay, what it’s like designing for AvantStay, the biggest design mistakes, where she gets her inspiration, and more. Let’s dive in!
1. Where do you get inspiration from when designing a new AvantStay?
My inspiration for each home comes from a combination of the market, the architecture and style of the home, and what kind of guests travel to the area. I always aim for the design to feel localized to the area and authentic to the home, and always keep in mind how our guests can best utilize the space to gather.
Ishan in Joshua Tree
2. Biggest mistake people make when designing vacation rentals?
Lack of seating! In addition to a space being beautiful, it also needs to function for the groups inhabiting it. There should be plenty of comfortable seating and space to share meal around a table.
4. How does AvantStay work with homeowners to design their homes?
AvantStay collaborates with homeowners to enhance the function, aesthetic, and experiential aspects of their home. We focus on comfort, gathering spaces, and taking advantage of experiential areas like game rooms, movie theaters, and stunning outdoor spaces. These enhancements improve the guest experience as well as drive ROI for homeowners.
5. What style trends are you seeing in vacation rentals lately?
Color is very on trend! I’ve been seeing a super fun use of paint, murals, and wallpaper. People are embracing some groovy vibes and I’m very much here for it!
Paramount Place in Austin
6. How is designing for vacation rentals different from designing for someone’s home?
Vacation rental design is very different from designing a personal home in the way that it needs to appeal to a wide audience, rather than a space someone will live in every day. It’s the same in that vacation rentals should make you feel at home, but they should also give you a little something special that you don’t get to experience every day.
No city in the world offers a music scene quite like Nashville. Music has been the common thread throughout the city’s history, from the early days of fiddle playing to the inception of the Grand Ole Opry and the honky tonks today. This Tennessee city certainly lives up to the moniker “Music City,” with hundreds of music venues and museums around every corner. Learn all about the artists and genres inspired by the city at the music museums in Nashville. From the Country Music Hall of Fame to The Johnny Cash Museum and the National Museum of African American Museum, there is endless music history to discover!
AvantStay offers an impressive collection of Nashville vacation rentals in the heart of the city, so you can easily access local museums such as:
Country Music Hall of Fame
The Country Music Hall of Fame offers the ultimate experience for country music lovers. The museum features galleries, exhibitions, artifacts, instruments, stage wear, recordings, and films of country musicians. You can also plan your visit around one of the upcoming shows at the CMA Theater if you want to catch a show in their state-of-the-art music venue.
The Johnny Cash Museum
photo courtesy of Light AZ
This Nashville museum features the most extensive collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia worldwide. The collection includes stage costumes, instruments, personal letters, artwork, and handwritten lyrics. After you have explored the life and legacy of the Man in Black, you can head next door to Johnny Cash’s Bar & BBQ for Southern comfort food and great drinks.
Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum
photo courtesy of Jackson National Twitter
The Musicians Hall of Fame Museum highlights artists from every genre of music with galleries, memorabilia, and rotating exhibits. See the studio where Elvis recorded his biggest hits, Jimi Hendrix’s guitar, and meet the artists who called Nashville home. Your ticket also includes admission to the Grammy Museum Gallery, where you can experience the recording process firsthand.
National Museum of African American Music
This is one of Nashville’s newest museums, and the only museum in the country dedicated to preserving and celebrating Black Music in America. Six galleries feature artifacts highlighting the history of blues, jazz, gospel, R&B, and hip-hop. The galleries tell the story through interactive technology and exhibits that bring the past to life.
Madame Tussauds
Come face to face with Nashville’s music legends at Madame Tussauds. The museum will take you through iconic Nashville music venues like the Ryman Auditorium. Whether you want to snap a picture with The King, meet the greats of jazz, or party with Katy Perry, snap the best vacation photos at Madame Tussauds.
Choose Our Nashville Vacation Rentals with AvantStay®
Start your vacation in Music City by visiting the music museums in Nashville. Then read our AvantStay blog on the 33 Best Things to Do in Nashville for more vacation ideas. We offer over 70 Nashville vacation rentals, whether you are looking for a suite in the heart of the city or a large vacation home for your extended family. Experience the elevated homes and hospitality that make AvantStay different, and book your getaway today!
Urban “Angelenos” know that for every urban adventure you can find in Los Angeles, California, there is a trail that can get you away from the city. From Pasadena to Hollywood Hills to Malibu, there are plenty of great hikes to choose from whether you’re just visiting or already live in Southern California. With AvantStay, you can live like a local but enjoy a luxury hospitality experience in between hitting the best hiking trails in Hollywood.
Hollywood – Griffith Park Hiking Trails
I get it, it can be exceptionally hard to get around the traffic in Los Angeles if you’re driving. If you’re looking to hike without leaving the city, some of Los Angeles’s most iconic sights can be found in Griffith Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the United States! Plan to arrive early to these trails to beat the crowds. Strap on your hiking sandals and bring your movie-junkie friend with you to see some of Hollywood’s iconic film-sets in the outdoors!
Ferndell to Griffith Observatory
Explore Ferndell’s wooded glen that connects to Griffith Observatory’s loop trails. This 2.6 mile loop trail is generally an easy hike, with just over 600 feet of elevation gain overall. Ferndell is a largely asphalt or manicured trail that is most accessible to all potential visitors, but the trail up to Griffith Observatory is a wide, mostly flat trail even as you gain elevation. Expect sprawling views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood sign as you ascend out of Ferndell! Visitors who may not be able to access the loop trail can drive up to the Griffith Observatory to get in on the scenery! The Griffith Observatory has free admission for visitors.
Runyon Canyon Trail
If you have watched any movie or TV series based in LA, you have probably seen your favorite characters power-walking up and down Runyon Canyon. This trail is a 2.7 mile loop trail that has views of million-dollar mansions, Hollywood Hills, and the elusive Hollywood sign. This isn’t the easiest hike for beginners, but it is accessible to any hiker even if you only have a ball cap and sneakers. There are plenty of vistas along the trail to catch a breather and take pictures of this iconic SoCal trail!
Bronson Caves
This short 0.6 mile round trip trail brings you to the Bat Cave used in the 1960s Batman TV show! Bronson Cave itself has been closed indefinitely due to falling rocks, but Bronson Canyons is a beautiful area worth exploring. It’s a great supplemental hike if you’re already in the area. Besides, why give up the chance to proclaim “To the Batcave!” on the way to the actual Batcave?
If you’re heading to Pasadena for some classy shopping, you should consider heading north past Altadena for some great hiking in the Angeles National Forest!
Echo Mountain
If you’re looking for a more challenging hike that still has a view of L.A. county, look no further than Echo Mountain. This moderately difficult 5-mile round trip hike up the Sam Merrill Trail gains over 1400 feet of elevation at the peak. Echo Mountain has some of the best views in the area, and those that have the chance shouldn’t miss the chance to make their way up the mountain! This trail has a few interesting nearby historical markers. The trailhead starts at the supposedly haunted Cobb Estate and leads hikers to the old Mount Low Railway on Echo Mountain.
Eaton Canyon Trail is a challenging 4 mile round trip hike that leads to a waterfall and small pool whose size varies on the season. Some hikers are able to enjoy a dip under the waterfall, but your experience may vary on whether there is anything to actually “dip“ into. This hike follows fire roads for most of the trail, but does eventually become quite rocky—only wide enough for one at a time—once you reach the canyon, so you should be prepared with good boots! This trail can be a little tricky to navigate, but AllTrails does the best job in describing the best way to complete this hike.
Malibu
Malibu is probably best known for its sandy Pacific Ocean beaches, well-suited for surfers and celebrities alike. The Santa Monica Mountains of Malibu give hikers the chance to see it all, from sprawling views of the Pacific coast to towering mountains and canyons. Need some extra beach time or mountain escapes away from Los Angeles? Check out the house stays AvantStay offers in Malibu.
Malibu Creek State Park
Malibu Creek State Park has a 3 mile loop trail that is considered moderately challenging. Much of this hike follows old fire roads, but you might see why this place has a history in the film industry the longer you hike: Malibu Creek has the classic, timeless look of desolate but beautiful land.
Here’s some trivia for your movie nerd friends: Malibu Creek State Park was once owned by several TV studios and used for movie ranches. The State Park was once home to the set for the movie and subsequent TV show M*A*S*H until the set was burnt down in a brush fire just before the show’s finale. Besides the markers that have been placed since the fire, you will only find a rusted army Jeep and a Dodge ambulance in the naturalized TV set. The TV show Planet of the Apes and dozens of 20th century movies were also filmed in this now-state park.
Paseo Miramar is a 4.9 mile out-and-back trail in Topanga State Park which partially follows a fire road that will take you 1200 feet up, well above the clouds. This is a moderately challenging hike, but at the highest point at Parker Mesa Overlook you will be rewarded by a 360° view of the Santa Monica Bay and the northern mountains. Look for wildflowers here in the Spring! Be prepared with water and snacks for this trail, and plan to get there early. No dogs are allowed. Parking is tricky here, so you should plan to walk a ways from your car to get to the trailhead; there is no parking on Saturday or Sunday, and there is no parking past the 600 block, or the 500 block on red flag days. Check with the fire station on your way to check the conditions.
Escondido Falls
Escondido Falls Trail offers hikers an easy 3.7 mile hike with views of the Pacific coast and, when the weather hasn’t been too dry, Escondido Falls of course! The waterfall tends to dry out during the Summer, but lucky hikers may be able to catch it if they go after rainfall. This trail is still a great option during the dry season, as it is partially shaded and provides plenty more to see. Escondido Falls is a popular biking trail, so stay aware of any incoming traffic! Finish off your hike by heading down to Escondido Beach afterwards to cool off!
(It’s worth the warning to hikers that waterfalls can be extremely dangerous places and deserve your caution. It is not uncommon for hikers to slip and injure themselves or even lose their lives from falling—Escondido Falls is no exception. Don’t take unnecessary risks in these areas.)
You really can’t go wrong with the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, but Solstice Canyon is an exceptional 3 mile loop trail with some interesting stops along the way. While this trail can be challenging at times, it is shaded a majority of the way and has several natural stopping points. About halfway through the hike you’ll find Tropical Terrace, the fun-to-explore ruins of a mansion. This trail is also home to the oldest stone structure in Malibu, which was partially destroyed in a fire but is still retained by the US Forest Service. You can take the Rising Sun trail back to the trailhead, but it has no shade compared to the Solstice Canyon trail. If you’re up for it, you’ll get great views of the Pacific Ocean.
Pacific Palisades
Situated just north of Santa Monica, the Pacific Palisades is the perfect middle point between Malibu and Los Angeles. The Palisades hugs Topanga State Park, which has several hikes with all-encompassing views of both LA and Malibu. The proximity to LA makes these trails busier due to locals and tourists, so plan to arrive early to beat the crowds and have a place to park!
This Pacific Palisades based trail gives you such a great view of Malibu, it’s hard to keep it off this list. Temescal Canyon trail is a moderately challenging 4 mile loop hike. You can practically see it all on this trail—you will get some of the best views of downtown LA, Santa Monica, and Malibu on your way up. Plan ahead for this one: get there early to have the best experience on this busy trail.
Will Rogers State Park
This state park provides a great escape from the traffic and noise of LA,. Despite that, an exploration of this park will include seeing the vaudeville actor Will Rogers’ ranch in the Santa Monica Mountains, and the Inspiration Point Loop Trail. Inspiration Point is a 2-mile easy hike that will easily fill your ocean view fix. Bring your dog and enjoy the trail before exploring the grounds of Will Rogers’ old estate. You’re likely to see plenty of horseback riders here—Will Rogers was famously known for his love of horses and roping, and that spirit lives on today.
No matter where you choose to hike when you visit Los Angeles, AvantStay has a collection of over 100 houses in the SoCal area, where you can experience upscale hospitality with a home-like feel. Browse our locations in and around Los Angeles to find your perfect vacation spot.
Ready to create a five-star guest experience and increase the return on your vacation rental investment? A great starting point is by adding experiential elements and sought-after amenities to your home. Vacation rental amenities help create an exceptional guest experience, drive more positive reviews, and ultimately increase your rental income. This article is the latest addition in our series breaking down popular amenities and the advantages they create, by market type. Keep reading to discover our top amenity picks for vineyard vacation rentals.
The importance of vacation rental amenities
In competitive markets, like Temecula, the vacation rentals that are going to get more bookings and drive strong returns are the one-of-a-kind and exciting homes that stand out from the rest. If you have unique amenities, like an outdoor kitchen overlooking a vineyard, showcase these in some of the first photos on your listing page to grab guests’ attention. Before we reveal what the top vineyard vacation rental amenities are, let’s cover the benefits of investing in interior design and luxury amenities.
Attract more guests
58% of millennials make their booking decision based on the first five photos of the home. Professionally designed properties with new furnishings, stylish decor, and top-of-the-line amenities attract guests who appreciate and respect the elements that make your home unique.
Earn higher ratings
Homes with thoughtfully designed interiors and amenities are directly linked to higher ratings and referrals from guests. An appealing and comfortable home where guests can gather and entertain has a proven positive effect on the guest experience.
Increase your revenue
Helping homeowners choose and install the right amenities is just one part of how AvantStay maximizes your property’s value and increases your profit by up to 20-30%. You’ll notice a surge in bookings as guests prefer to stay at properties with professionally designed interiors and experiential amenities for the whole group to enjoy.
Best vacation rental amenities for vineyard homes
Vacation rental amenities can make the difference between a four and five-star review. But which amenities are guests looking for? We dove into our data to discover what amenities drive the greatest returns in our vineyard vacation rentals. Below are our findings from one year of performance metrics from our Temecula, Sonoma, and Paso Robles vacation rental homes.
Pools & spas
Allow guests to maximize their time outside with a pool and spa. Adding a pool to your vacation rental is the #1 amenity investment you can make. Vineyard market homes with a pool see these premiums compared to homes without a pool:
68% higher ADRs
64% greater RevPAU (revenue per available unit)
43% more revenue per bedroom
A hot tub is another great amenity for vineyard market homes. However, you won’t see as substantial returns with a hot tub as you will with a pool. Our homes with both a pool and spa do see 22% higher ADRs and 27% greater RevPAU than homes with neither.
Fire pits
Another top (and dare I say “hot”) vacation rental amenity in vineyard markets is a fire pit. Fire pits are the perfect amenity for guests who want to wind down after a long day of wine tasting, as golden hour hangs turn into stargazing. Homes with this amenity see 42% higher ADRs, 69% greater RevPAU, and 57% more revenue per bedroom than homes without a fire pit.
Bonus outdoor experiential features
If you’re looking to improve your amenity offerings, install another outdoor experiential feature instead of an indoor game room. Based on our findings, guests visiting vineyard markets are looking to enjoy the fresh air instead of spending time indoors. Outdoor kitchens and outdoor sport courts are two popular amenity options.
Homes with an option to cook and dine al fresco see 26% greater RevPAU and 29% more revenue per bedroom than homes without an outdoor kitchen and dining setup.
On the activity side, homes with an outdoor sport court see 25% higher ADRs and 32% greater RevPAU than homes without. Cornhole, bocce ball, and horseshoes and great options for vineyard market vacation rentals.
Mountain and vineyard views
While it’s not a tangible amenity, one of the highest ROI drivers for vineyard vacation rentals is an “Instagrammable” view. Homes with a view of the mountains or vineyards (or both) see 55% higher ADRs, 74% greater RevPAU, and 36% more revenue per bedroom than homes without a view. If you’re looking to make your next vacation rental investment in a vineyard market, don’t think twice about securing a spot with a breathtaking view.
Level up your vacation rental with AvantStay
Only AvantStay homeowners have access to our award-winning Interior Design team that elevates homes in under nine days, instantly increasing your home’s equity and maximizing your ROI. We believe the best accommodations are designed to enhance every aspect of a guest’s travels, which is why we transform beautiful homes into incredible experiences that foster unforgettable memories.
We help procure high-quality, durable furniture and upscale amenities, and coordinate delivery and installation on your behalf so you don’t have to lift a finger. Our thoughtfully designed spaces encourage gathering and allow guests to make the most of their time at your home—leaving them recharged and ready to write a five-star review!
Are you looking to upgrade your vacation rental design and amenities? Our interior designers can create a custom, locally inspired space that guests love. If you’re interested in learning more about AvantStay’s design, procurement, and vacation rental management services, our team of experts is ready to help. Get started today!
Nothing in the world rivals the wineries and vineyards in Paso Robles. With over 40,000 acres of vineyards, 200 tasting rooms, and over 400 different types of juicy grape varieties, it’s easy to see why Paso Robles is the world’s number one destination to visit when you want to taste and learn about wine.
But beyond that, Paso is like a treasure chest full of fun activities that make this seemingly small town an interesting vacationing spot. Whether you want to spend time indoors or outdoors, there’s never a dull moment in Paso. From exploring the food to engaging with the locals, the culinary creativity and deep-rooted culture of the people here remain unparalleled.
Wondering what to look forward to on your visit here? Here are the 20 best things to do in Paso Robles.
1. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Imagine if you could take in the beautiful and expansive Paso vineyards in one glimpse? Well, that’s a wish that a ride in the enormous hot air balloon will grant you. Capturing the beauty of the local vineyards and wineries from above is an experience that will be etched in your memory forever.
Do you love watching the sun set or rise? If so, you’ll love this trip. Often balloon rides are scheduled at dawn or in the evening. One hot air balloon ride lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Usually, a flight ends with some treats and a champagne toast.
Drastic weather changes may force you to reschedule or cut short your balloon ride. Therefore, it’s advisable to visit Paso from May to November when the weather is favorable enough for countless hot air balloon rides.
2. Explore Downtown Wineries
No trip to Paso Robles is complete without a visit to at least one winery. The Downtown Wineries are the epitome of what this place represents. It’s a string of tasting rooms that hint at the diversity, charm, and history of Paso Robles.
There are over 200 tasting rooms in Downtown Paso Robles. Some tasting rooms have a subtle mix of classic wine brands, luxury wine varieties, and some less-known but worth trying wine pairings. The tasting rooms are within walking distance, making it convenient for one to try different tasting rooms without driving too far.
The tasting rooms stay open from morning until 7:00 p.m. Feel free to visit other attractions in Paso before ending up at the downtown wineries. Here, you’ll taste different wines and can even buy bottles to take back to your AvantStay rental.
A mind-blowing adventure awaits! But wait, you need your cowboy hat and leather boots because it’s time to saddle up! Horseback rides happen primarily away from the wine areas and off into California’s Central Coast.
Feel free to schedule your Central Coast trail rides with a recognized private ranch, local winery, your hotel, or the local state land authorities. A typical ride entails a trip through the grape vines, rugged terrain, up and down the California rolling hills, and across sandy river beds with occasional stops for wine tasting.
Whether you’re a pro horse rider or a first-timer, there’s no doubt that each guided horseback trail ride will open you up to a more adventurous part of yourself. Kids and adults are welcome to explore Paso via horseback all year round.
4. Adelaida Road Tour
On the west side of Paso Robles wine country is another hidden gem with more wineries than you can finish visiting in a day. Adelaida Road is famous among Paso vacationers. It’s dotted with grand and smaller-sized family-owned wineries and vineyards.
If you love solving puzzles or playing mind games, you will love scavenger hunting in Paso Robles. It’s a clever way to discover and learn about downtown Paso Robles.
A typical scavenger hunt begins and ends at the infamous corner of pine and takes two to three hours. Participants can solve clues, see attractions, learn about the area’s history, and complete challenges. You’ll be using your smartphone to complete most of the tasks while playing at your own pace.
Prepare to navigate through places like the City park, the Paso Robles Clock tower, Paderewski Piano, the Paso Robles Inn, Carnegie Library, and more. You’ll explore outdoor artwork, renowned hotels, and historic buildings.
There’s so much to discover in Paso Robles and scavenger hunting is the best way to explore the area!
6. Vineyard Drive Tour
The Vineyard Drive is another stretch that boasts some well-known wineries in Paso. These wineries include Dilecta, Clos Soléne, and Paix Sur Terre.
Paix Sur Terre is undoubtedly the place to visit if you like white wine. While not as expansive as downtown wineries, Vineyard Drive is equally intriguing with sites like Thacher, where you can taste exhilaratingly delicious red wines like Zinfandel, Cinsault, and Valdiguié.
Soaking in a bathtub at home is relaxing, but nothing beats a long dip in nature’s bathtub. One that never runs dry has plenty of minerals to replenish the skin and is never too hot or too cold.
The hot springs of Paso Robles existed long before the wineries and vineyards took over the region. In the 1700s, the area was a large patch of lush greenery filled with exotic animals, native Salinan Indians, and tall trees.
These thermal waters have been known to attract visitors from across the globe who come here on a quest to experience the health benefits therein. Besides soaking in the hot Sulfur baths, you can also enjoy mud baths that come with numerous benefits to your skin, joints, and muscles.
San Luis Obispo is a city in the coastal region of California. It may be tiny, but thousands of tourists throng this city throughout the year to witness its magnificence.
Fan-favorite attractions include Bubble gum alley, where chewed gum covers the walls, and the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa on Mission Plaza, a Spanish mission museum established in the 1700s.
Other worthy attractions in San Luis Obispo County include The San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, where you’ll view breathtaking works of art by different contemporary artists from California.
You’ll be awed by fresh produce vendors, flower sellers, and street food vendors on Higuera Street’s Downtown SLO Farmer’s Market, where this small town with a population of About 50,000 comes alive.
9. Highway 46 East
By now, it’s clear that Paso Robles has no shortage of vineyards and wineries. Thus, it is no surprise that Highway 46 East is yet another part of Paso where wine lovers can have a field day. It’s also where you can experience the distinct cowboy culture that is so prevalently conspicuous across Paso Robles.
Tobin James is the first spot that people visit on Highway 46. It’s an established winery with a wide variety of great-tasting wines. Other attractions here include the Robert Hall Winery, where besides all things wine, you also get to indulge in an intoxicatingly fun game of bocce ball. A concert at Vina Robles and plenty of selfies at Jessie James’s hillside area are enough to complete your vacation.
Enormous oak trees adorn the central coast of California, where something special also resides—the Vina Robles Amphitheater!.
The Vina Robles Vineyards created the amphitheater to offer what other wineries didn’t. Here, tourists can sip on wine while listening to live music in a unique setting that blends ancient European and Californian styles.
Local and award-winning artists, including The Beach Boys, Kacey Musgraves, Chase Rice, and Train, have held concerts at the Amphitheater, which remains open from April to November.
11. Estrella Warbirds Museum
The Estrella Warbirds Museum is over 30 years old. It’s a space where 40 macro-artifacts, military air crafts, vehicles, missiles, and memorabilia used in World War II are carefully preserved and maintained.
Also known as the Estrella Army Air Force Base or the Paso Robles Municipal Airport, this aviation museum is a nonprofit focused on educating current and future generations. Visitors can find a Woodland Auto Display featuring vintage and class automobiles, as well as Nascar race cars. The museum hosts annual car shows that attract thousands of locals and visitors every year.
If you’re a history buff, automobile lover, or generally curious, this is one of the most educational things to do in Paso Robles.
12. Paso Robles Pioneer Museum
Located in the downtown area of Paso Robles, The Paso Robles Pioneer Museum is another must-visit spot where visitors can go down memory lane. The museum has visual and written memorabilia of Paso Robles’s history.
On your visit to The Paso Robles Pioneer Museum, you’ll see the city’s initial stages, including the first houses, old forms of transportation, wine cellars, and outdated farm equipment. Other intriguing sights on the museum grounds are the 85-ton, 76-year-old oil pump housed in a separate building near the main museum. There’s also a schoolhouse that has existed since 1886.
Paso Robles is a rainforest-turned-farmland for world-famous vineyards and wineries. Therefore, it is no surprise that the area’s thriving wildlife flourishes at the local zoo.
Zoo to You is a safe haven for abused, permanently injured, abandoned, or displaced wild animals. The zoo works effortlessly to speak about the plight of these exotic animals by educating visitors across the world about their efforts of conservation.
The Zoo to You serves as a rescue shelter where visitors can come in close contact with animals such as otters, lemurs, kangaroos, and big cats.
14. Mission San Miguel
Officially named a State and National Historic Landmark in 2006, Mission San Miguel is an ancient building that opened in 1821. It is one of California’s 7 out of 21 missions that have earned the National Historic Landmark title.
The mission, which now serves as a parish cathedral/church, was built to serve the area in which the Salinan Indians densely populated as the Mission San Antonio in the North and Mission San Luis Obispo in the South were too far away.
Despite undergoing routine maintenance, the church’s interior bears the original paintings and remains untampered. Its wall frescos were painted by Salinan artists centuries ago and provide the opportunity to step into an antiquated space that will take you back in time.
15. Tin City
If you like food, wine, and beer, Tin City is the place to be. Step into a warehouse district with farm-to-table cuisines, craft beer, wine, and ciders that attract foodies and ale & vin lovers alike.
No need to drive as it’s even better when you explore the area on foot. Tin City is home to about 20 family-owned wineries, including Field Recordings, Levo, Giornata, ONX, Brian Benson Cellars, and Desparada. It’s also the birthplace of renowned establishments, such as the Wine Shine Distillery, Barrel House Brewery, and Tin City Cider. The nearby McPhee’s Canteen, Six Test Kitchen, and Negranti Creamery Scoop Shop make excellent stops for meals and snacks after a lot of wine tasting and beer sampling.
16. Sculpterra Winery, Sculpture Garden
Beyond all the hype and excitement that comes with visiting a place as rousing as Paso Robles, the quiet time comes as a welcome alternative every time you crave a change of scenery. That’s precisely what the Sculpture garden provides
Sculpterra Winery and Vineyard is home to Sculpture Garden. Central California artists and creatives have made Sculpterra garden their incubator and art gallery exhibit for some of their best works of art. It’s how this place became a world-recognized center for magnificent granite and bronze sculptures, including the ‘Dancing Horse,’ ‘Mermaid,’ and ‘Puma.’
Visiting the Sculpture garden is the best thing to do in Paso Robles because it’s where you can come to admire art while simultaneously tasting wine.
17. Helicopter Tour
It may be brief, but it’s an experience you will never forget. A personalized day trip around Paso Robles aboard a helicopter lasts about thirty minutes. and provides a rare chance to get a bird’s eye view of the area.
One ride can accommodate up to five people and takes riders on a short tour around Paso to view the Pacific Ocean and see Hearst Castle, Wine Country, and Morro Rock. You can have Ord book a longer ride with several stopovers at different vineyards and wineries where you’ll get to taste the wine before boarding the helicopter to the next stop.
18. Happy Hour Walking Tour
A happy hour walking tour is an adventure that lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Participants walk downtown and make several stops to taste wine and olive oils while learning about the great people that place considerable roles in making Paso Robles what it is today.
Some of the happy hour walking tour stops include Vine Street, Paso Robles Children’s Museum, Paso Robles History Museum, and Paso Robles Wine Region.
Beyond hot Springs, vineyards, and the welcoming spirit of the locals, this fun activity is a chance to get up close and personal with Paso Robles.
19. Hiking at Carrizo Plain National Monument
The Carizzo Plain National Monument is a park that provides a welcome alternative for visitors who are not in Paso Robles solely for its wineries and vineyards.
This place is the largest native grassland area that’s left in California. It’s the best spot for people looking for an adrenaline rush or who want to break a sweat hiking through the California poppies, which come into full bloom in spring.
It’s also an excellent spot for people looking for a quiet picnic spot with less traffic.
The Sensorio Field of Lights is a relatively new thing to do in Paso Robles. This project is one of acclaimed artist Bruce Munro’s biggest exhibits. This activity involves a night when people visit a patch of land on the outskirts of Paso, where artists install light art on over 15 acres of land.
During the day, the lights are barely visible but at night, the lights create an awe-inspiring scene that makes for the most romantic evening.
Best Things to Do in Paso Robles: Final Thoughts
When all is said and done, Paso Robles is hands down one of the most surprising places for vacationers looking for a quintessential wine-country experience laced with unusual and unique places to visit.
Although it’s somewhat of an underrated destination in California, it has proven a worthy site that receives thousands of tourists from countries around the world every year.
If you’re interested in seeing how wonderful Paso Robles is for yourself, revisit our list of the top twenty things to do in Paso Robles before you go. Are you eager to try these activities but don’t have a place to call home during your stay here? Check AvantStay out for reliable rentals and accommodation in Paso Robles.
How do we turn a vacation rental from average to an AvantStay? In our Ask the Expert series, we sit down with different members of the AvantStay team to learn just that.
We asked our Product Manager II, Lina Nguyen, about the process of onboarding homes, what it’s like working with homeowners and more.
1. What does your job actually entail?
I’ve been with AvantStay for over 3 years, mostly working as a Product Manager II on many of our proprietary internal tools, including our homeowner portal, Lighthouse. Lighthouse is the one-stop shop for owners to have visibility and control over the management and performance of their home. Lighthouse has been a huge tool and value-add for many of our owners in management agreements.
Over the past few months I have supported our Onboarding initiatives, which include everything in between closing a deal and beginning to get guests in homes. This includes coordinating with our owners and field teams on things like inspections, furnishing, installations, photoshoots, listing creation, and much more.
2. How do you work with homeowners during the onboarding process?
I work with owners to ensure their properties are set up for success and that all their needs are met with respect to what they are looking for in a property manager. While we have general requirements for each onboard, every home in our portfolio is unique and has its own stand-out features, so every onboard can be different from the last. In addition to myself, each owner has a dedicated point-person for everything from design and styling to revenue and listings optimizations.
3. What teams do you work with the most often in this role?
Onboarding is one of the teams that touches every other department. I work very closely with Field Operations as they are the boots on the ground executing the majority of these onboards (shout-out to them!), as well as our Supply Chain, Photo, Listings, and Revenue teams to make sure each home is ready to go live. I also still work closely with our Product and Engineering teams to build experience based on real user needs and ensure our technology is growing to support all of our end-users: guests, owners, and operators.
4. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced?
AvantStay has grown significantly and quickly over the last 3 years I’ve been here which has allowed me to wear many different hats and build solutions to various different problems. I’m excited to see what we continue to do in the future!
5. What is your favorite part about taking a home live on AvantStay?
A tie between seeing our owners happy and their property performing well, and seeing all our teams’ hard work come to life!
Want to take your vacation rental to the next level with our team of experts? Learn how to list your home with AvantStay here.
If you’re looking for a healthy dose of fresh air, exercise, and rejuvenation, look no further than AvantStay Airbnbs in Big Bear, California. While Airbnb has long been the standard for booking vacation homes online, as alternative vacation rental options grow, comparison shopping has become more of the norm for travelers.
Enter AvantStay: where guests can enjoy all the advantages of Airbnb and combine them with the elevated experience of staying in a luxury hotel. From award-winning interior designs and in-app upgrades to sprawling estates stocked with all the amenities and in-home entertainment you could ever dream of, our professionally managed properties are one-of-a-kind.
To further curate our collection of upscale vacation rentals, we’ve compiled a list of 7 beautiful homes in Big Bear to inspire your next Southern California getaway in the jewel of San Bernardino County. But why take our word for it? We’ll let our properties speak for themselves.
1. Direct Lakefront Access
Wake up to a placid, reflective lake, the sounds of nature, and enjoy a cup of coffee on the private decks or curled up next to the fireplace at Shoreline Lakehouse. This five-bedroom cabin is the perfect getaway for your friends or family.
2. Custom Docks
Water’s Edge Estate is a luxury 6-bedroom, pet-friendly cabin that sits directly on Big Bear Lake with a large, custom dock for two boats and three jet skis. Its inviting floor plan and ideal location make this home a nature lover’s paradise for endless year-round activities.
3. Modern Designs
“Wow” is the only word that can describe not only the updated interior design of Wolf’s Den, but also the breathtaking views from this 3,000 square foot cabin. Sweeping windows, a large private deck, and just two minutes from Bear Mountain Ski Resort, this 14-person home is waiting for you.
4. Natural Beauty
Nestled among fragrant pine trees and oozing with charm and character, lies Bernard. Paired with cozy furnishings, a hot tub, and an outdoor grill, this cabin’s allure is matched only by its scenic surroundings.
5. Comfortable and Chic
This isn’t your ordinary cabin in the woods. Koda’s touches of light wood, contemporary decor, and the inviting appeal of a stone fireplace give you the glamping feel with even better views.
6. Luxury Amenities
The summer retreat of Heavenly Valley is the perfect spot for a private AvantStay getaway. Located only two miles from the lake, just over half a mile from Snow Summit Ski Resort, and stocked with a game room, wet bar, and heated swimming pool, this home offers the perfect space for indoor and outdoor living with your friends and family.
7. Unobstructed Views
One of the many reasons guests come to us when shopping around for the best vacation rental options includes our selection of unparalleled homes and chalets like Lagunita Shores. Enjoy over 100 feet of prime shoreline in this custom cabin with boundless views of Big Bear Lake. Your mountain dream home is only a reservation away.
How do we turn a vacation rental from average to an AvantStay? In our Ask the Expert series, we sit down with different members of the AvantStay team to learn just that.
We asked our Revenue Analyst, Matt Murphey, what it’s like pricing a vacation rental, best booking practicesand more. Let’s dive in!
1. What does your day to day actually look like?
First thing every morning, I look at the previous day’s bookings. This gives me an idea of how units are reacting to any changes made. The rest of the day I am concentrated on a various market or time period making sure pricing for each unit is where I want it.
2. How do you figure out how to price a home?
I like to get as much data as possible with previously booked rates being the most important. Setting base rates for a home is focused around calculating rates for each day in line with the normal seasonal demand. Dynamic pricing will ensure we are priced in line with current market conditions after initial rates are set.
3. What is dynamic pricing?
Dynamic pricing is the macroeconomic principle of adjusting rates to match market conditions. If a certain time period is booking more or less than what we forecasted, rate adjustment allows us to better reach our targets.
4. What tools do you use to make sure a price is competitive?
We use different dashboards with data showing us unit and market conditions. Depending on the season and current trends, we want to be in a certain price range of the comparable units in the area.
5. What is the most important metric to look at when it comes to vacation rental performance?
The most important metric for me is Revenue per Available Night. It combines booked rates and occupancy to give a very accurate telling of how your total revenue is looking over a period. It rewards a balanced approach of being well occupied at competitive rates.
6. When’s the best time to book an AvantStay?
This depends on the kind of unit and season. If the group is wanting a desirable unit in the high season, they will need to book in advance. If they want to get a good deal regardless of location and amenities, closer to check in date will have better rates, but the choices will be very limited.
Want to take your vacation rental to the next level with our team of experts? Learn how to list your home with AvantStay here.
In today’s world of remote and distributed work, corporate retreats have been redefined as a powerful way to support employees and company culture. Retreats can be a fantastic opportunity for your employees to escape work for a bit while strengthening relationships, boosting productivity, and refreshing workplace morale.
These excursions can break up the monotony of the day-to-day grind and can be a respite from the standard cycle of meetings, Zoom calls, productivity reviews, and workplace projects.
It’s crucial to put some time and thought into the planning process to ensure that you curate a positive environment. Follow our 8-step guide to plan the best possible retreat for your company.
How to plan a corporate retreat that your team will love
Let’s talk about some decisions you need to make before you get into the 8-step planning process. These things will help you narrow down what you’re looking for, so you can plan accordingly.
Define your company goals
The first step in the retreat planning process is figuring out why you’re doing it. What’s the purpose of the retreat? Many businesses plan a company retreat primarily as an opportunity to bring team members together on a fun getaway to reflect on the year’s performance, company culture, and the overall work environment.
But it doesn’t have to be all about work. These retreats also offer an incredible opportunity for team bonding and relaxation for everyone on the team. If your office sometimes feels like a collection of individuals rather than a united front working together toward a shared purpose, some carefully chosen activities can help them bond.
Sure, colleagues must be productive and achieve the company’s work-oriented goals. But an enjoyable work environment is a big part of that, and retreats are a great way to help work toward that more personal goal.
One goal of a company retreat is to help employees learn about each other’s personalities and how they work. Everyone is different – some people work better alone, while others are more productive in teams. Some people like to work in silence, while others prefer to listen to music or brainstorm out loud. Some people enjoy sitting at a desk, while others work better while standing or moving.
Retreats provide a unique opportunity for employees to have fun while learning about each other’s personalities and work styles. This insight can help you to curate a more enjoyable (and more productive) workplace when you get home.
Consider the time of year and season
Different locations and styles of retreats can be great at varying times of the year, so you’ll want to consider this when planning your next company retreat.
First, consider the weather. If you want an outdoor-oriented retreat, you’ll need nice weather. You probably don’t want to go to the desert in the summer or the mountains in the winter if you’re hoping to do lots of hiking.
But if you’re planning on skiing or snowball fights, a winter trip to the mountains could be great! For example, you might consider Cherry Ridge in Breckenridge or Canopy in Park City. Or the desert in the summer could be great if you’re hoping to have a lot of pool days or lake days. Try buying out the Monkey Tree in Palm Springs for a pool all to yourself, or book Buena Vista Estate in Coachella Valley for a private pool AND a private lake. Just make sure to provide a detailed list to your employees of what they need to bring to prepare for the weather.
Not only do you want the weather to cooperate with your plans, but you also want to look at how your venue’s pricing fluctuates throughout the year. For example, a mountain resort will likely cost more during winter because everyone wants to go skiing or snowboarding.
But if you’re more interested in hiking and other mild-weather activities, you could consider going during a different time of year. You’d get the weather you’re looking for, and you’d probably get a cheaper rate.
Look into a few different potential retreat locations and see which one works best for what you have planned.
Give your team a save-the-date with sufficient time to plan
While your company retreat can provide an incredible opportunity to get away, you still want to ensure that it doesn’t interfere with too many people’s busy personal schedules. Most people have lives and responsibilities outside the office that can be tricky to work around.
Don’t spring the news on your team at the last minute. Ensure that you let them know you’re planning a retreat with a good amount of advanced notice, and let everyone know of any costs they may need to budget for.
That means you’ll need to start planning even sooner. It’s usually a good idea to begin the planning process for a company retreat anywhere from six months to a year in advance, depending on the group size. That will make it easier for you to find lodging and venues that can accommodate the number of people you’re bringing and will take the stress off of you as the retreat gets closer.
8 steps to follow when planning a corporate retreat
Now that you have a general idea of what you want your retreat to look like, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Follow these eight steps to plan the company retreat of your dreams:
1. Find and book the venue
Choosing the right venue can make or break your team retreat. These trips are typically designed as something of an escape from the usual workspace, so make sure you’re looking for venues that will provide a fun and unique experience for the entire team.
But the right venue will look different for different teams. With a small group, you could probably book a group home or another short-term rental. If you have a large group, you may want to consider a boutique hotel or resort as accommodation.
Whatever you choose, make sure you’ll be able to plan activities that take place outside of a conference room – remember, you’re trying to avoid the mundane corporate environment!
2. Book lodging for the offsite
Depending on which venue you choose, you may need to provide offsite lodging for your team. If that’s the case, you’ll want to ensure the lodging isn’t too far away. If your employees are driving to the retreat and have their cars, you may have some wiggle room. But if they’re taking a bus or flying to the retreat, make sure it’s going to be easy for them to get from their room to the venue each day.
If you want your team to have a truly seamless experience, AvantStay offers the opportunity to book out an entire hotel, an entire neighborhood of villas, condos & homes within walking distance of each other, or even take over a whole estate together. While it’s not necessary, it can be a nice touch to put together some sort of welcome basket for each person. Leave them on the beds for them to find when they check in. You can include things like planners, copies of the retreat agenda, water bottles, or other company-branded swag (like t-shirts, pins, totes, backpacks, or temporary tattoos), and some self-care items like face masks or snacks.
3. Secure transportation
Your employees must be able to safely get to and from the retreat, and then to and from their rooms once they get there.
If your retreat is close to home, decide if you want employees to drive themselves or if you want to rent a shuttle or a bus to take everyone there and back together. If you’re choosing the shuttle route, ensure your employees won’t need their vehicles while on the retreat. If your employees will be driving there, ensure there are ample parking spots.
If you’re traveling further away for the retreat, make sure you take care of all the flights and subsequent rental cars, Uber rides, or shuttle services. You don’t want your employees to get stressed about transportation during the retreat. The more you plan for a smooth ride, the easier it will be for everyone in the long run.
4. Manage food and catering if needed
One of the best parts of vacation is the food– it should be no different on a corporate retreat. Shared meals can offer a great bonding experience, so plan what food options to offer your team.
Will there be self-serve options? Large catered meals? Maybe you could even consider cooking classes as a team-building experience that ends in a great meal or ask AvantStay’s retreat coordinator to book you a private chef for a delicious feast The options are endless, just make sure you plan ahead.
Some hotels and venues have food and drink options available for large groups – the bigger the group, the cheaper the rates typically are. That can be a great option, but realize that people probably won’t want to have every meal on-site. You may want to consider branching out to offsite restaurants for a meal or two as well. If you need recommendations, AvantStay’s retreat coordinators are ready to help you find and book the best dining in the area for your team.
5. Coordinate and plan team-building activities
These are essential retreat activities, but they can either be really fun or cheesy. Make sure you think long and hard about the team-building activities you plan and think through what sounds like fun.
Some popular options you can incorporate at any venue include icebreakers that allow people to get to know their colleagues better and scavenger hunts that let them have some fun and explore the retreat location. You want your employees to get to know each other’s personalities better and cultivate better working relationships.
Then depending on the venue, there are plenty of other fun team-building exercises you can plan to promote employee engagement. Wherever you are, try to think about ways to get out and enjoy some fresh air – beach days, hiking, skiing, etc.
When planning your retreat, make sure you incorporate a variety of activity styles to accommodate people’s preferences and comfort levels. Some activities can be more active (like hiking and yoga), while others could be more laid-back (like board games or crafts).
Include different options for people with varying physical needs and capabilities. If there’s a strenuous hike option, plan a shorter guided loop for those with different needs.
You could make personal sessions where everyone has the chance to share a bit about their lives outside of the workplace, and even offer people the opportunity to teach their colleagues about something they have a passion for. AvantStay retreat coordinators can help book activities like mixology classes, beach picnics, and more if you want someone else to take care of the planning!
Remember, team-building activities aren’t just about bringing your team closer together in a work environment. It’s about building relationships and helping people get to know their colleagues better. Ideally, your employees will leave the retreat feeling like they’ve developed friendships with their colleagues.
6. Organize work sessions
Retreats can be fun, but you’ll likely need to get some work done at some point. Check that the venue has everything you need, including comfortable work seating, WiFi, and meeting rooms. While working on a retreat doesn’t always sound appealing, it can be a fantastic opportunity for remote-work companies to have in-person brainstorming sessions, which are often more productive than over the phone. It can be hard to achieve a sense of teamwork in a remote team, so factoring in some working hours during the retreat may help.
7. Provide restaurant recommendations and activities in the area
Sure, the retreat is technically a work thing. But you must schedule some downtime for your employees as well. Make sure you not only allow for some free time but also provide some recommendations of things to do.
One way to do this is to create a pamphlet or information card waiting for each employee on their bed when they check-in. The card could list information about restaurants, activities, and other interesting locations in the area. Include some that are walkable, and some that may require a drive, depending on what they’re feeling up for.
8. Create a post-retreat survey
No matter how much thought you put into planning your retreat, you can never really know how well it’ll go. That’s why it’s always good to talk to your employees and get a feel for how much they enjoyed it. You can take their feedback and use it when planning your next corporate retreat.
While you may have good relationships with some employees, not everyone will feel comfortable voicing any questions or concerns they had in one-on-one chats. You’ll want to make sure you get as much honest feedback as you can.
Consider creating an anonymous post-retreat survey. That will allow people to be as honest as they want without fear of retribution.
But if you send out one of these surveys, just make sure the leadership team takes any concerns or suggestions into consideration when planning the next retreat. People will notice (and appreciate!) the change, but they’ll also notice if their concerns get ignored year after year.
Final thoughts
A company retreat is going to be as good as you make it. So make sure you put in the necessary work to plan a good one.
That idea can seem overwhelming, but if you follow the steps we outlined above, you can get it done in no time.
Remember that everyone is different, so a one-size-fits-all approach probably isn’t best. Consider who’s going on the retreat and build a flexible schedule with something included for everyone. Not everyone has to love every aspect of the trip, but you want everyone to enjoy at least some parts of it.
Lastly, as the person leading the retreat, remember to have fun. The planning process can be stressful, and by the time you’re going on the retreat, you’ve probably been thinking about it and worrying over the details for months. This trip is about having fun and building relationships– you don’t want to miss out on that.
Have fun and happy planning! Here’s to hoping your next retreat is a huge success!
Consider yourself a heavy dink-er? 2024 proved that you either like pickleball or you’re wrong. With the addition of pickleball courts in 6 of our homes, we figured it’s time we give these courts their shining moment… since we already gave our homes with private tennis courts theirs.
Grab your racquet—it’s game on.
1. The Reserve at Polo Villas – La Quinta, CA
The Reserve are our newest additions to the Polo Villas neighborhood in Coachella Valley. The Reserve #15 and The Reserve #18 have their very own pickleball court, pool, and fire pit—which we think makes this already conveniently-located home that much better for festival season. If you’d rather have a bocce ball instead of a pickleball court, you might be in the wrong blog, but also The Reserve homes #12 and #16 have those.
2. Chianti – Sonoma, CA
You’re gonna love this one. Chianti is a Sonoma beauty offering a brand new, top-notch court from FlexCourt, featuring elite tiles designed specifically for pickleball. This cushioned, synthetic surface enhances traction and playability, reduces joint stress, and ensures quick drainage. Chianti’s court also comes with four of the latest Owl Paddles: the industry’s quietest and best-performing paddle. Enjoy superior balance, maneuverability, and reduced arm strain for you and the whole crew.
3. The Riesling Retreat – Temecula, CA
The Riesling Retreat: Where day dinking meets day drinking. This Temecula getaway was aptly named a retreat with its plethora of activities. Spend days playing pickleball, volleyball, basketball, or even putt-putt. Hang inside in the game room with a pool table, ping pong table, and foosball. Head back outside for the pool, fire pit, and alfresco dining.
Fun date idea: a game of pickleball at The Date Palm Estate. This Coachella Valleystay embodies luxury and was designed for the active group. With its pickleball court, saltwater pool, bocce ball court, six arcade games, a movie theater, home sound system, a fire pit, outdoor grill, and last but not least, a breakfast bar, you’ll never run out of things to do.
5. Farrier – Paradise Valley, AZ
This Scottsdale vacation home? Baller. And not just for its pickleball court. Farrier offers an extra-decadent vacation with its pool, outdoor dining area, ping pong table. Inside you’ll find a stone fireplace, wet bar, pool table, and marble floors, and the coziest bedrooms to make you want to extend your vacation another week or two.
FYI, that’s totally an option. Check out our Month+ Stays here.
6. Nahana – Indio, CA
Ballin’ on the pickleball court! ThisCoachella Valley property embodies a California sunset with all pink courts for pickleball, tennis, and volleyball. When you’re all tuckered out, soak in the pool loungers—perfect for those summer reads. At night, gather round the sunken fire pit and cheers to the good life that is Nahana.
7. Buena Vista – Thermal, CA
If your group has a designated dinker, we think they’ll be pleased with this property. Buena Vista is a Coachella Valleyestate with a tennis court that doubles as a pickleball court, a 60 ft pool, a freshwater lake with a paddle boat, paddle boards and kayaks, billiards, shuffleboard, a fire pit, an actual saloon, a soccer field, and so much more.
8. Slice of Heaven – Temecula, CA
Double trouble – Slice of Heaven has a basketball court that also serves as a gorgeous pickleball court. On top of that, it also features stunning views of Lake Skinner, rolling hills, and mesmerizing sunsets—so TBH, we think you’ll be just fine staying at this Temecula property.
9. Winding Down – Troutman, NC
A full day of pickleball means you need a good space for your evening of Winding Down—and that’s exactly what this Lake Norman home can provide. This lakeside home boasts plenty of new additions: a private pickleball court, a new pool, and a man cave (which we have mixed feelings about, because where’s the lady cave?) Anyway, all are welcome to give the game their best shot at this home.
10. Casa del Colibri – Palm Springs, CA
Welcome to Casa del Colibri. This Palm Springshome has a game for every player. Break a sweat on the private pickleball court with views of the desert mountains. Roast s’mores at the firepit lounge. Show who’s boss around the billiards table, bocce ball court, or foosball table. Or say “screw it, I’m on vacation” and opt for wasting the day away on a pool float. Whatever works.
11. Azalea Retreat – Sherrills Ford, NC
Azalea Retreat is a Lake Norman home serving looks, activities, and lake views—what more could you ask for? Enjoy private access to your very own pickleball court, private pool, shuffleboard, expansive deck, arcade game, and room for (drumroll, please) 34 guests.
12. Nahana – Indio, CA
Great minds dink alike. Nahana is a 6-bedroom stay with all you and the crew need for a pretty-in-pink trip to Coachella Valley. Engage in some friendly competition on the pink pickleball and volleyball courts, cool off by the pool, or soak in the pool after a day of exploring the desert.
13. Chateau Syrah – Temecula, CA
The game is so on at Chateau Syrah in Temecula. This home has both a pickleball and basketball court, a private pool, an outdoor kitchen and grill, a fireplace with cozy seats, tons of outdoor seating around the property, a billiards table, foosball and a ping pong table.. So yeah, we’ll meet you there.
14. Mesquite38 – Thermal, CA
Game, set, match at Mesquite38. This estate in Coachella Valley has two of our favorite pickleball courts—partially because of their cerulean blue color surrounded by contrastingly pink flora (can you say “gorg?”)…but also because of the unparalleled amenities this property provides. We can’t fit them all in this blog, but our favorites are the: oversized hot tub, two bocce ball courts, spacious pool house with a bar, a gym, huge pool, a tennis court, and 6 beach cruiser bikes.
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The exploration doesn’t stop here. Apart from its seamless group travel experience and a plentiful selection of luxury in-app upgrades, AvantStay homes are in primo outdoor locations – even more than what we just covered in this article. Click here to see all our destinations and we’ll see you soon!
Throughout the US, days are becoming shorter, the weather is cooling down, apples are ripening, and leaves are erupting in color. Which can only mean that fall is right around the corner! Not only is fall a picturesque time to plan a getaway, but the season also offers fewer crowds, lower prices, comfortable weather, and an abundance of festivals. Finding the best fall vacations in the US for groups is made easy with AvantStay.
We offer vacation homes in over 35 destinations, whether you want to experience iconic leaf peeping in the Great Smoky Mountains, grape harvest season in Sonoma, or a fun festival in Hudson Valley. Here are our top five fall vacation destinations with AvantStay vacation homes; plus, the best times to visit each area if you’re looking to travel when these areas are in peak fall foliage, according to the Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Prediction Map.
Hudson Valley
Extending 150 miles above Manhattan along the Hudson River is the Hudson Valley, known for natural beauty, history, culture, and winemaking. The Hudson Valley offers some of the best fall foliage in the country, setting the region aglow for scenic hikes, bikes, and drives. You can expect quintessential seasonal activities, like apple picking, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and haunted houses. You can also plan your fall vacation around food and wine festivals or walk through thousands of lit-up pumpkins at the Great Jack o’Lantern Blaze.
Looking for fall leaves? Here are the best times to see them in Hudson Valley:
Near peak fall foliage: Week of Oct. 10
Peak fall foliage: Week of Oct. 17
Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains are located in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee, known for their ancient mountains, diverse wildlife, and the mist that settles in the valley. The Smoky Mountains offer one of the best fall vacations for nature lovers. Fall is an excellent time to visit since it is less crowded, the foliage is beautiful, wildlife migrates, and temperatures are perfect for hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and more.
Here are the best times to see fall leaves in the Smoky Mountains:
Near peak fall foliage: Week of Oct. 10
Peak fall foliage: Week of Oct. 17
Sonoma, CA
Autumn is a beautiful time to plan a wine-country getaway in Sonoma, California. Fall is when vineyard grapes are harvested, farm-to-table cuisine is at its best, vibrant foliage highlights the valley, and annual festivals return. After you have spent time at Scenic Sonoma County Wineries, there are plenty of fall activities like pumpkin patches, harvest fairs, apple orchards, and haunted houses to keep you busy during your getaway!
Trying to check out some fall leaves in Sonoma? Here are the best times:
Near peak fall foliage: Oct. 24
Peak fall foliage: Oct. 31
Sedona, AZ
When you are looking for the best fall vacations in the US, you may be surprised to see Arizona on the list. However, Sedona offers cooler weather and beautiful fall colors like other fall destinations. Driving through Oak Creek Canyon provides spectacular foliage, and the weather is cool enough that you can hike Red Rock State Park comfortably. You can also expect fall activities like apple orchards, wine tasting, craft fairs, and ghost tours.
The best time to see fall leaves in Sedona?
Near peak fall foliage: Week of Oct. 10
Peak fall foliage: Week of Oct. 17
Telluride, CO
Even though Telluride is best known for skiing, this Colorado mountain town is also excellent during the fall. The San Juan Mountains explode with hues of yellows and gold, offering an idyllic backdrop to your hiking, biking, and golfing adventures this fall. There are also fun festivals to plan your vacation around, such as the Blues & Brews Festival and the Telluride Horror Show film festival.
These are the best times to visit Telluride if you’re looking to see some perfect fall foliage:
Near peak fall foliage: Week of Oct. 10
Peak fall foliage: Week of Oct. 17
Find the Best Fall Vacations in the US with AvantStay
Discover the best fall vacations in the US when you stay with AvantStay. Whether you want to spend the fall season hiking through the foliage, sipping wine, picking apples, or attending festivals, there is a destination for everyone! Plus, our homes are perfect for groups of all sizes and come with games and activities to play together on those cozy fall days.
