Hey there, wanderlust seekers! If you’re itching for an adventure, look no further than the captivating Oregon Coast. With its stunning landscapes, charming coastal towns, and endless outdoor activities, this place has something for everyone.
In this blog post, we’re going to take you on a journey through 9 must-do activities that will make your Oregon Coast experience truly unforgettable. Plus, we’ll let you in on a little secret: AvantStay has some of the best vacation rentals in the area, perfect for groups of all sizes looking to have an epic time together and make memories. Let’s dive in!
1. Soak in the Coastal Beauty
Let’s start our adventure with a bang! First stop: the stunning Cannon Beach. Get ready to have your breath taken away as you marvel at the iconic Haystack Rock rising majestically from the shore. Snap some envy-inducing photos, walk barefoot on the sandy beach, and let the salty breeze rejuvenate your soul.
Now, buckle up for a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. With its jaw-dropping ocean views and winding roads, this highway is a road-tripper’s dream come true. Roll down the windows, turn up the tunes, and let the rhythm of the waves guide you.
Source: Adventures of A+K
2. Discover Natural Wonders
Strap on your hiking boots because we’re heading to Ecola State Park. Prepare to be enchanted by lush forests, rugged cliffs, and sweeping vistas of the coastline. Choose from a variety of trails that cater to different fitness levels and soak in the beauty of this coastal gem. We recommend the iconic Clatsop Loop Trail, a 2.8-mile loop trail that is moderately challenging, dog-friendly, and open year-round. The views are unbeatable.
Next, let’s visit the Cape Meares Lighthouse. Climb to the top for panoramic views that will make your heart skip a beat. Its historic charm makes it a must-visit destination for lighthouse enthusiasts and history buffs.
Feeling adventurous? Time to check out Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area. Don’t worry, you won’t be fighting any demons here! Instead, you’ll witness Mother Nature’s artistry in the form of incredible rock formations. Explore the tide pools, watch the waves crash against the rocks, and let your imagination run wild.
Source: Oregon Is For Adventure
3. Enjoy Outdoor Activities
Ready to channel your inner marine biologist? Grab a bucket and go tide pooling! Some of the best locations include Yaquina Head in Newport, Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach, Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City, Cape Lookout State Park near Tillamook, and Harris Beach State Park in Brookings. These areas boast diverse marine ecosystems and are teeming with fascinating tide pool creatures waiting to be discovered.
Explore the intertidal zone and discover fascinating creatures like colorful sea stars, curious crabs, and squishy anemones. Just be sure to tread lightly and leave everything as you found it.
Crabbing or clamming, anyone? The Oregon Coast is famous for its delicious crustaceans and bivalves. Head to one of the coastal towns and try your hand at this coastal tradition. Not only will you have a blast, but you might also end up with a mouthwatering seafood feast!
For a more serene experience, hop on a kayak or paddleboard and explore the coast’s tranquil waterways. Nehalem Bay near Manzanita provides calm waters and opportunities to spot wildlife like seals. Siletz Bay in Lincoln City offers tranquility and scenic beauty, with a chance to witness bald eagles in flight. Whether exploring the channels of Alsea Bay in Waldport or enjoying the serenity of Netarts Bay near Tillamook, these coastal destinations provide an ideal backdrop for unforgettable paddleboarding and kayaking experiences.
Glide through hidden coves, navigate through sea caves, and feel at one with the ocean. Don’t be surprised if you spot some playful seals or curious dolphins along the way!
Source: Only In Your State
4. Immerse in Coastal Towns
Let’s take a break from nature and dive into the vibrant coastal towns that dot the Oregon Coast. Our first stop is Astoria, the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. Wander through its charming streets, admire the Victorian architecture, and indulge in some local brews at a quaint pub.
Next up, Newport! This artistic community is known for its picturesque harbor and bustling waterfront. Take a stroll along the marina, visit the renowned Oregon Coast Aquarium, and savor a fresh seafood meal while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Newport will leave you craving for more.
No trip to the Oregon Coast is complete without a visit to Seaside. Channel your inner child as you play carnival games on the bustling boardwalk, take a leisurely bike ride along the promenade, and dig your toes into the sandy beach. Oh, and don’t forget to sample some mouthwatering fish and chips while you’re there.
Source: Astoria Riverwalk Inn
5. Indulge in Culinary Delights
Speaking of sampling food, prepare your taste buds for a feast! Along the Oregon Coast, you’ll find an abundance of delightful culinary experiences. Treat yourself to the freshest locally caught seafood at renowned coastal restaurants. From succulent dungeness crab to melt-in-your-mouth halibut, your palate will thank you.
Take a break from the salty sea air and visit one of the coastal farmers markets. Here, you’ll find an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and friendly vendors. Stock up on juicy berries, crisp veggies, and homemade goodies to create your own delicious coastal picnic.
Don’t leave the Oregon Coast without satisfying your sweet tooth. When it comes to getting delicious saltwater taffy, one of the best spots is Bruce’s Candy Kitchen in Cannon Beach. Bruce’s Candy Kitchen has been an iconic destination for sweet treats since 1963 and offers a wide variety of mouthwatering taffy flavors. Step into their colorful store, watch as the taffy is made on-site, and indulge in this classic coastal delight. With its charming atmosphere and delectable selection, Bruce’s Candy Kitchen is a must-visit destination for saltwater taffy lovers. Treat yourself to a bag (or two) and savor the sugary goodness.
Source: Only In Your State
6. Uncover Hidden Gems
While the Oregon Coast offers well-known attractions, there are also hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Head off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known spots that offer unique experiences. Hunt for colorful agates along the shore, stumble upon secluded beaches where you can have a slice of paradise all to yourself, or venture into coastal forests and soak in the sights of all the ancient trees.
Source: Beach Connection
7. Experience Whale Watching
If you’re lucky enough to visit the Oregon Coast during whale migration season, prepare to be amazed. Gray whales make their journey along the coast, and you can catch glimpses of these magnificent creatures from various viewpoints. Grab your binoculars, find a cozy spot on a cliff, and witness the awe-inspiring sight of these gentle giants as they breach and spout.
Source: Statesman Journal
8. Enjoy a Coastal Bike Ride
Feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as you embark on a scenic bike ride along the coast. Many towns along the Oregon Coast offer bike rentals, so you can pedal your way through charming streets, beachside paths, and scenic trails. It’s a fantastic way to explore the area, enjoy the fresh coastal air, and soak in the natural beauty at your own pace.
Source: Travel+Leisure
9. Discover Maritime History
The Oregon Coast has a rich maritime history, and you can delve into it through various museums and historic sites. Visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum in Astoria to learn about the region’s maritime heritage and explore fascinating exhibits. Don’t miss the opportunity to tour the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, known as “Terrible Tilly,” perched on a rugged rock offshore.
From the awe-inspiring beauty of Cannon Beach to the hidden wonders of Devil’s Punchbowl, this place has truly stolen our hearts. Indulging in delicious seafood, discovering hidden gems, and immersing ourselves in the rich maritime history only added to the magic of this coastal paradise.
Source: Oregon Live
But before we wrap up, let’s not forget the cherry on top of your Oregon Coast experience: AvantStay vacation rentals. Staying in one of their luxurious properties amplifies the joy and comfort of your trip. With spacious accommodations and top-notch amenities, AvantStay ensures that your group has a memorable and relaxing stay.
So, don’t settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary. Choose AvantStay for your Oregon Coast adventure, and let them take care of the details while you focus on making unforgettable moments. The Oregon Coast is calling, and it’s time to answer the call!
Key West has a population under 30,000 and is only 4.2 square miles. But restaurant owners have managed to pack the island with restaurants ranging from casual backyard patios to upscale dining experiences.
Fresh seafood and delectable key lime pie are some of the iconic staples of many Key West restaurants. But you’ll get to enjoy many other fresh foods as well, and we’ll introduce you to 18 must-visit options in Key West, whether you’re a tourist or a lucky local.
1. Blue Heaven
Blue Heaven makes among the first mentions of most online forums about the best restaurants in Key West, and for a good reason. It offers a tropical, al fresco dining atmosphere, with cats and chickens roaming the property. You’ll find Blue Heaven in Bahama Village and can enjoy a range of Caribbean and American cuisine.
Some favorite dishes at Blue Heaven include Jamaican jerk chicken, fresh fish, scallops provencal, and blueberry pancakes. You’ll be glad Blue Heaven serves breakfast until 2:30 pm when you see the line that’s almost always present. The good news is that they allow dinner reservations.
2. Bagatelle
Bagatelle sits at the northern end of Key West’s legendary Duval Street in an 1800s building close to Mallory Square and is one of the classiest restaurants in town. Brunch is one of the biggest draws here, and their 9:00 am to 4:00 pm service every day makes them generous with the word “brunch.”
You can also enjoy dinner or one of Bagatelle’s two happy hours—the breakfast hangover and afternoon happy hour. If you’re unsure what to order from their wide-ranging American and Caribbean menu, start with their famous lobster mac and cheese made with fresh Caribbean spiny lobster.
3. Latitudes
If fine dining and ocean views are up your alley, make a bee-line to Latitudes. The restaurant sits within the Sunset Key Cottages complex, a 5-minute ferry ride from mainland Key West. They include the ferry ride for restaurant goers. Latitudes uses locally sourced ingredients and crafts its menu around food that’s in season.
Because of its popularity and the ferry ride, reservations are a must at Latitudes. We also recommend dressing the part—this isn’t the kind of restaurant to go to straight after sunbathing at the beach. Latitudes is famous for its seared sea scallops and unique selection of specialty cocktails.
4. Cuban Coffee Queen
It’s hard not to fall in love with Cuban Coffee Queen in you need a pick-me-up when exploring the Florida Keys. They’ve become so popular that they opened three locations across Key West, one on Front street and one near Mallory square. The day starts early at the no-frills Cuban Coffee Queen shop, with people lining up before opening to snag a cup of Joe.
In addition to their coffee, you can also order sandwiches, smoothies, and a Cuban breakfast (the best rice and beans of your life, anyone?). The bottom line is that the Cuban Coffee Queen is a great spot to experience a Key West breakfast without breaking the bank.
5. First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery
You’ll get a trip through aviation history eating at First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery, given that it’s the original home of Pan American World Airways. Nowadays, First Flight Island offers everything from garden canopy to tree top dining in the historic building where the first tickets sold out in 1927.
Don’t visit First Flight Island without starting at the bar, which incorporates an original aluminum airplane wing as its bar table. The food itself is delicious and classic American comfort food, and you’ll also find some twists on American favorites, such as fried ravioli. Calories don’t count when you’re eating out, right?
6. Santiago’s Bodega
Stepping inside Santiago’s Bodega will make you feel like you traveled from Key West to the heart of Spain. They’re famous for their wide selection of shareable tapas. In classic tapas style, the portions are small plates since the idea is to try lots of dishes.
Santiago’s Bodega offers a tapas-style brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, where you can fill up your plates with some of their most popular dishes. Griddle cakes, sweet broccolini, and peel-and-eat shrimp are some of the many items you’ll find on their brunch menu.
7. Cafe Marquesa Key West
Cafe Marquesa proudly boasts that it’s one of the highest-rated restaurants in Key West, and we have to agree. There are only 50 seats in this restaurant’s dining room, so you might have to wait in line. But once you snag a spot, you’ll enjoy a range of fresh seafood, meat, and salad options. You can top it all off with some homemade bread and dessert.
Since Cafe Marequea uses seasonal food, its menu is constantly changing. However, you can head to their cozy bar, where you can be sure to find your favorite drinks they make on the sport.
8. Kermit’s Cafe
Kermit’s Cafe sits in the historic seaport area, and they’re a great choice if you’re looking for breakfast or a light lunch. If you’re trying to keep it healthy, we recommend the Kermit Salad, complete with hearts of palm. They also serve a long list of sandwiches and wraps.
Although you can purchase food at Kermit’s Cafe, they’re most famous for their key lime pie. With so much competition in the key lime space in Key West, Kermit’s stands out because they sell frozen key lime pie on a stick. Of course, you can also order a traditional piece of key lime pie and enjoy it inside their key lime-colored cottage.
9. Hot Tin Roof
Hot Tin Roof is one of the most unique Key West restaurants because their entrees incorporate conch-fusion, “Floribbean” flair—a mix of Floridian and Caribbean cuisine. It’s best to make a reservation at Hot Tin Roof, although you might get lucky and snag a seat without one, watching the sunset over the harbor as you dine on Chef Scott Maurer’s latest dish concoctions.
If you’re at Hot Tin Roof for breakfast, we recommend their Noble Benedict. It’s a twist on the traditional egg benedict, complete with a crab cake and key lime hollandaise sauce.
10. Amigos Tortilla Bar
There’s no shortage of Cuban influences, Cuban food, and Cuban sandwiches in Key West. But if you’re craving some Mexican cuisine, there’s no better place to visit than Amigos Tortilla Bar. You can order your favorite Mexican dishes like tacos, quesadillas, guacamole, and more.
Amigos Tortilla Bar makes all of their corn tortillas by hand, and they use only the freshest ingredients and locally-caught seafood. What makes Amigos Tortilla Bar stand out from any other Mexican restaurant you’ve likely been to is that they make square tacos. The purpose? So more ingredients go into your mouth instead of on your plate.
11. La Grignote
La Grignote is a French-style eatery in Key West that’s happily off-the-beaten tourist path while still claiming historic Duval Street as its home. They’re open for breakfast and lunch, and offer seating on a first come, first served basis.
On the menu are classic French dishes like granola with fruit or French toast. And, of course, you can get your fill of French croissants. But if you want to spice things up, try their lobster benedict or quiche Lorraine You can also stop at La Grignote for dessert, where their key lime pie gives any of the French pastries a run for their money.
12. Conch Republic Seafood Restaurant
Key West is called the “Conch Republic” for a reason: on almost every street downtown souvenir shops and vendors have conch shells for sale most of which come from local restaurants harvesting them for an array of classic Key West-style dishes. What makes the Conch Republic unique is that this restaurant sits in a former fish house and ice plant for shipping fresh seafood around the country.
Befitting its roots, the Conch Republic has a local, laid-back vibe and is one of the best restaurants in Key West for no-frills, fresh seafood. But we’d recommend sticking with what they’re known for—conch, so start with the conch fritters or cracked conch.
13. Bo’s Fish Wagon
Calling all seafood and food truck lovers! Bo’s Fish Wagon offers an outstanding selection of seafood dished up with local flair that you can grab in a hurry whether you’re biking to the beach or bar hopping late at night. Alternatively, sit down for a spell at this open-air eatery and bask in its funky Key West history including an
eclectic array of old license plates and stickers on the walls. It’s hard to go wrong with anything on the menu, but Bo’s is most famous for its fried grouper sandwich which is Conch Republic classic especially with cole slaw on the side. The fried shrimp and fried soft shell crabs are legendary as well, and Bo’s also doesn’t display calorie counts on its menu so you can leave your guilt at the hotel (or home).
14. Salute! On the Beach
Salute! On the Beach is the only actual “beach-front” restaurant in Key West, sitting directly on the sand at Higgs Beach near the southern end of Duval Street. And it’s worth every step or bike pedal it takes to get there. It’s an excellent place to run up to for a drink, smoothie, or lunch between laying out in the sun or floating in Key West’s aquamarine waters.
You can expect al fresco Italian fare from Salute! with some Caribbean flair along with a healthy mix of both Key West locals and visitors. Salute! is also run by the same management team as Blue Heaven, so whether you’re craving a salad, seafood, or fresh bread, this place will have your tastebuds covered.
15. A&B Lobster House
A&B Lobster House is a Key West icon and famous for its ocean view balconies. They’ve been in business for over 70 years and have a long list of people they’ve had to privilege to serve, including dozens of well-known captains and celebrities (think Jimmy Buffett).
It’s hard to say that you’ve actually “experienced” A&B without trying one of their legendary lobster dishes. Their Florida Lobster Thermidor is one of the best in the U.S. But their cooks can also fire up a perfect filet mignon if you’re in the mood for meat. Dining at A&B is an extra memorable experience, given that you’ll get to watch the sunset.
16. Banana Cafe
Situated in a quieter area of Key West’s old town, Banana Cafe is a French Bistro that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a colorful décor and a laid-back café-style with indoor and outdoor seating.
Whether you’re in the mood for French classics like crepes or a simple bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich, you’ll leave Banana Cafe stuffed and satisfied. Vegetarians will appreciate that Banana Cafe also has several choices on its menu—something that can be harder to come by in a seafood-centered place like Key West.
17. Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen & Bar
If you’re craving good old fashioned American comfort food, Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen & Bar is a can’t miss Key West culinary destination especially if you’re driving. Located just off island, hat Matt’s is a distinctly local joint that’s also unique because you can bring them a fish you’ve caught that day, and they’ll prepare it for you.
Brunch is a big deal in Key West, and Matt’s is one of the strongest contenders. They offer a bottomless Sunday brunch from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm that includes all-you-can-drink mimosas and Bloody Mary’s. But if you aren’t in town on a Sunday, you can always head to their bar, where they have daily happy hours from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
18. Eaton Street Seafood Market
Have you ever eaten in a vintage gas station? After dining at the Eaton Street Seafood Market, you’ll officially be able to say that you have. The locals living in Key West frequent this market to buy fresh seafood and clams to make at home.
However, if you’re staying in Key West as a tourist, you can pick out seafood from the market, and they’ll cook it on the spot for you. Some excellent choices at Eaton Street Seafood include the shrimp salad sandwich and fried conch strip basket.
Conclusion
Whether you’re hunting for the best conch dish or key lime pie, the Key West restaurants we covered here have some of the best food that the island offers. Between the delicious food and laid-back island life, don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Key West so much that you end up moving there and calling yourself a proud local.
Lake Arrowhead is one of the best vacation spots in the San Bernardino Mountains in Southern California—a stunning mountain range that is often referred to as the “Alps of Southern California.” At only an hour to an hour-and-a-half drive from Los Angeles, it’s an easy road trip to escape the city and get into the mountains.
Lake Arrowhead is home to a variety of outdoor activities. From taking a boat tour on the lake to hiking through the San Bernardino National Forest, a long weekend in Lake Arrowhead is perfect for families or even a romantic weekend getaway.
1. Lake Arrowhead Village
As one of the central attractions at Lake Arrowhead, Lake Arrowhead Village is on the southern shore of the lake. As you stroll the village, you get to take in the breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
Lake Arrowhead Village is a bustling downtown area filled with restaurants, shops, and live music. The village is home to the Arrowhead Center Stage Concert Hall which hosts the famous Lake Arrowhead Village Summer Concert Series.
Whatever season you visit, this town center is host to a variety of fun things to do all year-round! Our vacation rental, Lone Pine, offers quick access to the village and is the perfect place to stay if you don’t want to miss all the action.
Source: Discover Inland Empire
2. Skypark at Santa’s Village
Despite its name, Skypark at Santa’s Villageis a year-round adventure theme park. Just three miles from Lake Arrowhead, this facility has a long history of making many childhood memories. Since 1955 it has opened and closed its doors many times but in 2016 it reopened and is operating better than ever before.
Today, this theme park is home to a variety of outdoor activities like axe throwing, rock climbing, mountain biking, archery, and ziplining. Tickets are general admission and include available activities, rides, and entertainment.
While Skypark at Santa’s Village is open year-round, wintertime is the best time to visit. The village turns into a winter wonderland and features seasonal attractions like Ice skating. The park also glows with thousands of Christmas lights during the winter season.
3. McKenzie’s WaterSki School
McKenzie’s Water Ski Schoolis one of the best ways to hit the water and learn something new! If you ever wanted to learn how to water ski, wakeboard, or kneeboard, your getaway to Lake Arrowhead is the perfect place! Don’t worry if you’re new to these sports—the instructors at the school are highly trained and have the experience needed to teach you how to get up and ski on your own in no time.
4. Rim of the World Scenic Byway
Lake Arrowhead is one of the many stops along the Rim of the World Scenic Byway. This 110-mile route follows the rim of the San Bernardino Mountains starting from Cahon Pass and winding all the way to the San Gorgonio Mountain.
There are a variety of noticeable stops along the highway including Silverwood Lake, Big Bear Lake, and The Mountain History Museum. Big Bear is a popular winter destination as it is home to Big Bear Mountain Resort which offers some of the best skiing in Southern California.
The Mountain History Museum is home to the entire history of the mountainous region. This museum is a great stop along the drive to stretch your legs and enjoy the history of Southern California.
5. Lollipop Park
Lollipop Park is a lakefront amusement park that features a plethora of attractions for all ages. The top attractions here are the carousel, go-kart track, food concessions, spinning teacups, a candy store, and a mini golf course. This is the perfect place to visit for the whole family!
6. The Tudor House
The Tudor House is one of the many historical locations in Lake Arrowhead. Its history dates back to the 1920s, before the Great Depression. It is mostly known for its prohibition-era entertainment and rumored mobster management.
Since the 1950s, The Tudor House has been a legal source of entertainment and a popular performance space. It is host to a variety of live music events throughout the year ranging in every genre.
It is also host to a variety of events such as Sunday Brunch and a monthly Mystery Dinner Theatre. The property is also available to be reserved for private special events including workshops and retreats.
7. Heaps Peak Arboretum
Heaps Peak Arboretumis a beautiful day adventure within the San Bernardino National Forest. The Sequoia Trail circles the arboretum and offers a variety of interpretive information about the surrounding flora and fauna along the trail. With about 30 acres to adventure, this is the perfect adventure for your family to reconnect with nature.
8. Wildhaven Ranch
Wildhaven Ranch is a wildlife sanctuary home to a number of endangered and indigenous species. At this ranch, you can meet various animals, go on guided tours, participate in fun programs, and do a variety of other things. They are committed to preserving the wildlife indigenous to the San Bernardino Mountains. This is not a zoo and does require reservations in order to visit.
9. Lake Gregory Regional Park
Lake Gregory Regional Parkis just a 10-minute drive from Lake Arrowhead. This park offers a variety of entertainment and adventure that is perfect for the whole family. Lake Gregory in Crestline, California is the best place for all kinds of outdoor activities. You can fish, go boating or kayaking, or even hike if you don’t want to hit the water. If you don’t want to bring your boat or water equipment into the mountains, Lake Gregory has lake equipment rentals available.
Looking to stay near Lake Gregory? Our modern, industrial charm vacation rental, The Matterhorn Manor, is just a short drive from Lake Gregory and all its popular attractions.
10. Snow Valley Mountain Resort
Winter season is the best time to visit the Snow Valley Mountain Resort for skiing and snowboarding. They have something for everyone! From long intermediate trails to the best beginner terrain to the sledding area, the whole family will find something to do. Even if you are just starting to learn how to ski or snowboard or want to improve your skills, Snow Valley has an award-winning learning center that offers lessons for all skill levels and ages.
The resort is open during the summer months for mountain biking, hiking, and other special events.
11. Lake Arrowhead Queen Boat Tour
See all the beauty Lake Arrowhead has to offer on the Lake Arrowhead Queen Boat Tour. This charming tour departs daily from Lake Arrowhead Village and is an hour-long tour. As you cruise along the shoreline, take in the beautiful views of the lakefront mansions while you learn about the geologic history of the lake and the native cultures that call the lake home.
You can purchase tickets at Leroy’s Boardshop across from the boat landing dock. Tours happen throughout the day but the best times to go are early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
12. Strawberry Peak
Strawberry Peak is one of the most iconic peaks in the San Gabriel Mountains in Southern California. If you want to spend the day on the hiking trails and enjoy the mountains, driving the 2 hours from Lake Arrowhead makes it the perfect day trip.
The Strawberry Peak stands 6,164 feet high and gets its name from the number of strawberries that grow around the peak. This hike may be difficult for beginners or young children but the views make it worth it once you get to the top.
Looking for the Perfect Lake Arrowhead Cabin?
Book one of our cabin rentals in Lake Arrowhead. Take in stunning lake and mountain views from our 4-bedroomLake Pointhome. Experience modern mountain living at our lakeside rental, Howlite. No matter where you would like to stay on the lake, you will find some of the most relaxing and stunning views.
Start Planning Your Next Lake Arrowhead Getaway
Are you ready to embark on your next Southern California mountain adventure? With so many outdoor activities during the summer and winter, Lake Arrowhead is the perfect year-round destination. It is the perfect weekend escape from large cities like Los Angeles. Get away from all the hustle and bustle and start booking your stay in Lake Arrowhead.
The AvantStay Awards: Celebrating Our First-Ever Winners
For the first time ever, we asked our travel community to vote for their favorite AvantStay homes across 20 unique categories. After thousands of votes and weeks of anticipation, the results are in!
With over 50,000 votes counted across all categories, these homes emerged as the ultimate fan favorites. From stunning mountain retreats to dreamy coastal escapes, here are the best of the best from the very first AvantStay Awards.
These homes aren’t just guest favorites—they represent the best of AvantStay, from standout design to unbeatable locations. Keep scrolling to see which stays took home the top spots.
Best Desert Home: Villa Valentina, Palm Springs, CA
A true desert oasis,Villa Valentinablends mid-century modern charm with resort-style amenities. With a sun-soaked pool, mountain views, and stylish interiors, it’s no surprise this home won over voters. 734 votes.
Best Wine Country Home: Belleza, Sonoma, CA
Set in the heart of Sonoma’s rolling vineyards, Belleza is the ultimate wine country retreat. Featuring a private pool, an outdoor fireplace, and plenty of space to sip and unwind, this home embodies laid-back luxury. 555 votes.
Best Coastal Home: Endless Summer, San Diego, CA
With its beachfront location and breezy interiors, Endless Summerlives up to its name. Wake up to ocean views, spend the day lounging in the yard, and enjoy direct access to San Diego’s golden sands. 785 votes.
Best Urban Home: The Gilmore Hotel, Nashville, TN
A boutique-style retreat in the heart of 12 South, The Gilmore Hotelis the perfect mix of historic charm and modern comfort. This stylish stay is ideal for cozy getaways and those looking to experience the luxe side of Nashville. 570 votes.
Best Pool: Casa Palmera, Coachella Valley, CA
Palm trees, poolside cabanas, and a swim-up bar—Casa Palmeradelivers serious resort vibes. Whether you’re floating under the sun or enjoying the outdoor firepit, this Coachella Valley escape is a slice of paradise. 806 votes.
Best View: Angels Landing, Whidbey Island
Perched right by the water, Angels Landing offers panoramic views of the surrounding beauty. With floor-to-ceiling windows and an expansive deck, every moment here comes with a breathtaking backdrop. 807 votes.
Best Lake House: Lakeview, Lake Tahoe, CA
As the name suggests, Lakeview boasts some of the best waterfront scenery in Lake Tahoe. With a private dock and a hot tub overlooking the lake, this cabin is the ultimate retreat for any season. 676 votes.
Most Unique Home: Lazy River Glamp-House, Central Oregon
This home takes glamping to a whole new level. Stylish and luxurious,Lazy River Glamp-House is an unforgettable stay for those who love the unexpected. 645 votes.
Best Event Venue: Buena Vista, Coachella Valley, CA
With sprawling vineyards as its backdrop, Buena Vistais made for milestone celebrations. Featuring a grand estate, a spacious lawn, and dreamy string-lit patios, it’s the ultimate setting for weddings, reunions, and retreats. 899 votes.
Most Relaxing Home: Riversong Lodge, Lake Tahoe, CA
Nestled in the woods with a private riverfront, Riversong Lodge is a nature lover’s dream. Cozy up by the fire, take a dip in the hot tub, and let the sounds of the water wash your worries away. 764 votes.
Best Mountain Home: Ute Lodge, Telluride, CO
Tucked into the Rockies, Ute Lodgeoffers ski-in, ski-out access and unbeatable mountain views. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or soaking in the hot tub, this cozy alpine retreat is a winter wonderland. 725 votes.
Best for Big Groups: Mesquite38, Coachella Valley, CA
With 8 bedrooms, a massive pool, and stylish communal spaces, Mesquite38 was built for group getaways. Whether it’s a family reunion or a bachelorette party, this home makes hosting effortless. 731 votes.
Best Interior Design: Paramount Place, Austin, TX
A modern masterpiece, Paramount Placestuns with sleek finishes, statement decor, and an open floor plan connecting four beautifully designed floors. Every detail is designed to impress, making it a standout for style lovers. 726 votes.
Best for Corporate Retreats: Blackhaus, Palm Springs, CA
A minimalist masterpiece with an ultra-modern design, Blackhaus blends work and play effortlessly. With the option for a full hotel buyout, it’s the ideal setting for team retreats where a pool is a must. 771 votes.
Best Sports Court: Fairway Oasis, Scottsdale, AZ
From a private pickleball court to a putting green, Fairway Oasis is a sports lover’s dream. Whether you’re perfecting your swing or playing a round of hoops, there’s no shortage of ways to stay active here. 615 votes.
Best for Romantic Getaways: A-Frame Retreat, Lake Arrowood
Secluded, stylish, and surrounded by nature, A-Frame Retreatis the definition of cozy romance. With a wood-burning fireplace and twinkling string lights, it’s the perfect place to escape with someone special. 879 votes.
Best for Bachelorettes: The Date Palm Estate, Coachella Valley, CA
Chic, spacious, and made for celebration, The Date Palm Estate is a bachelorette party paradise. With a glamorous pool, pink-accented decor, and plenty of room for the whole crew, this home is the spot for one last fling before the ring. 568 votes.
Best Game Room: Ever After, Orlando, FL
From arcade games to a pool table, Ever After has entertainment on lock. Tucked away in Davenport, this home is perfect for families and friend groups who love a little friendly competition. 767 votes.
Best Movie Theater: Pinot Point, Temecula, CA
Sip wine, sink into plush seating, and enjoy a cinematic experience at Pinot Point‘s private home theater. Located in the heart of wine country, this home is a dream for film buffs, pool enjoyers, and vino lovers alike. 748 votes.
Best Ski-in, Ski-out Home: Silver Sun, Park City, UT
Hit the slopes straight from your doorstep at Silver Sun. With direct access to Park City’s best trails, plus a luxe hot tub to unwind in after a long day, this mountain retreat is a skier’s paradise. 893 votes.
These homes aren’t just winners—they’re guest favorites that define the best of AvantStay. Ready to book your next award-worthy stay?Explore all of the winners here.
Short-term rental owners dream of having consistent bookings year-round. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. When demand begins to drop and bookings taper off, this is known as the dreaded low season. However, your occupancy doesn’t have to take a drastic hit during this time of year. With some strategic vacation rental marketing, you can easily avoid the low-season slump. Our nine tips will teach you how to get more bookings in low season and boost your rental income.
1. Know your market’s low season
The first step to improving your occupancy is to know your market’s seasonal trends. Identify your low, peak, and shoulder seasons. Low season (also known as slow or off-season) is the time of year when tourists head home and demand slows down. Peak or high season is when demand is high and guests are eager to book your vacation rental. Then there’s shoulder season, or the time between low and peak season when travelers are typically looking to enjoy fewer crowds and lower rates. These seasons vary by market, so make sure you understand your location’s seasonal trends to help with pricing (more on that later).
In addition, use local events and seasonal attractions to your advantage. There could be big events like festivals and conferences, or timely attractions like leaf peeping and whale watching that take place during your low season. Mention these in your vacation rental listing, use event hashtags on your social media posts, and send out a calendar of upcoming events to your email subscribers.
2. Know your previous low-season guest
Next, dig into who booked your vacation rental during previous low seasons. Was it mostly couples looking for a quiet weekend getaway? Or groups of friends in town for a food and wine festival? Use these demographics and interests to target similar audiences in your social media ads.
Also, reach out to previous guests to offer special low-season promos and friends and family discounts. This is a cheaper way to acquire new guests while staying top of mind to your previous customers who already know and love your home.
3. Strategically adjust your rates
Pricing your vacation rental for market and seasonal trends is one of the trickiest parts of running a short-term rental business. Typically, with lower demand comes lower rates. However, you don’t want to lower your rates so much that you lose money. Research similar homes in your area so you can accurately and competitively charge for bedroom count, amenities, views, proximity to local attractions, and other key features. Dynamic pricing tools, like AirDNA, can help with this. Or if you’d rather leave it to the experts, consider partnering with a vacation rental management company that can optimize for both revenue and occupancy.
4. Update and optimize your listing
Keep your vacation rental listing updated to reflect current seasons and events. This is your first touchpoint with potential guests, so entice them to book a stay with a relevant and fresh listing page. Here are some ways you can make updates for low season:
If your target guests are travelers coming to leaf peep, add pictures of your home surrounded by fall foliage
Update your title and description to promote upcoming events and include your home’s proximity to events, festivals, and attractions
Highlight your amenities, especially the ones that guests will love during low season
Showcase your home’s features that are perfect for holidays, like a modern kitchen and large dining area for Thanksgiving, or holiday lights and decorations during December
5. Test niche listing sites
Low season is a great time to test out new vacation rental marketing strategies. Leverage niche vacation rental listing sites to diversify your channel mix, increase your exposure, and drive higher nightly rates (these travelers are often willing to pay more for personalized service).Niche vacation rental booking sites offer accommodations to travelers with certain needs or interests. These could be vacation rentals for families with children or pets, luxury homes, or locations with a desired climate. Some popular niche listing sites include:
A great way to improve your overall occupancy is to target business travelers and remote workers. Luckily, these folks travel all year and aren’t tied to a specific season. Equip your home with full-coverage fast WiFi and dedicated, comfortable workspaces. Be sure to highlight these in your listing so your home will be featured in any filtered searches.
Another way to boost your weekday occupancy (during any season) is to accommodate work groups. At AvantStay, we help companies host their retreats and offsites at our homes, and even plan custom team-building itineraries. This means more consistent bookings, positive reviews, and income for our homeowners.
7. Offer popular amenities and experiential features
One of the easiest ways to make your vacation rental stand out is by providing top-of-the-line amenities. Amenities help create an exceptional guest experience, drive more positive reviews and repeat visitors, and ultimately increase your rental income. Invest in experiential features that can be used all year. Hot tubs, fire pits, and game rooms are fan favorites that can be enjoyed in any season.
8. Start a blog
Travelers appreciate recommendations and tips from a local. Showcase that local expertise with a vacation rental blog on your website. A blog is an easy way to increase your visibility on search engines through the use of relevant keywords. Think of topics like “Best Things To Do in Destin in Low Season,” “Hidden Low Season Gems of Charleston,” and “Top 11 Things To Do in Telluride Year-Round.”
Pair your market knowledge with your keyword research to write helpful content for potential guests. You can also repurpose your blog content to share on social media or in emails to past guests.
9. Work with an expert vacation rental manager
Overall, running a successful vacation rental business, regardless of season, requires a lot of dedication. If you’d rather not worry about seasonal trends and getting the right guests in at the right price and time, partner with a vacation rental manager.
Unlike traditional management companies that use simple on and off-season pricing, AvantStay uses a sophisticated dynamic pricing model that segments each year into between 75-150 pricing “seasons.” These seasons capture and optimize revenue based on occupancy, day of the week, travel patterns, holidays, market events, and more. Our team of dedicated pricing and revenue management specialists reviews each asset in our portfolio every week to ensure each home is priced to book, no matter the season.
Now more than ever, people are skeptical about investing in short-term rentals. With economic uncertainty and #airbnbust trending on Twitter, it’s no surprise that folks are wary of what’s to come in the short-term rental market this year. However, the future of the industry is still looking bright. We teamed up with our partner Revedy to set the record straight. Ready to discover the truth behind these trending misconceptions and why now is the time to finally jump on that vacation rental investment? Let’s dive in.
1. Occupancy is plummeting and #airbnbust is real
THE TRUTH: Short-term rental owners shouldn’t be quick to compare performance to 2021 and 2022 numbers, as a pent-up desire to travel after lockdowns drove record-high demand. Now that things are returning to “normal,” AirDNA is predicting an average occupancy of 56.4% for 2023, which is still significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels. At AvantStay, our forecasted occupancy rates for Q1 are trending at 32% higher than the competition.
Seasonal booking trends vary, but many markets saw extended peak seasons in 2022 with strong occupancy throughout shoulder seasons. Experts predict that this trend will continue in 2023 as people look to save money traveling during slower seasons.
2. Markets are oversaturated—it’s too late for new investors to get started
THE TRUTH: There’s no time like the present, especially when it comes to investing in short-term rentals. According to Revedy, institutional and large portfolio investors own 65% of multi-family assets, 3% of single-family assets for long-term rentals, and less than 1% of assets for short-term rentals. Now is the perfect opportunity for smaller investors to purchase ahead of the large-scale capital wave. Also, no more than 5% of the industry is what Revedy considers an investment-grade asset, so you can easily outperform the competition.
3. I’ll earn less with a premium asset
THE TRUTH: The demand for premium vacation rentals is on the rise as more high-income travelers are interested in exclusive accommodations. Vacation rentals that offer professionally designed spaces with top-tier amenities and experiences can charge higher ADRs than upscale and midscale rentals. Our experts are forecasting that AvantStay’s average ADRs will be 34.5% higher than our market cohorts for the remainder of Q1. Also, if you’re worried about the starting point of investing in short-term rentals, you can still find good cap rates at all different price points.
4. Market regulations make it too risky
THE TRUTH: There are still plenty of low-regulation markets. Plus, investing in a market with established and stable regulations can be a low-risk play. Revedy actively monitors market regulations so you can make informed decisions, while AvantStay’s permitting and tax professionals maintain good relationships with local jurisdictions so your investment is always compliant.
5. I’ll lose money with a management company—I’d rather do it myself
THE TRUTH: According to Revedy, investors that switch to professional management see a 25% increase in top-line revenue on average, while AvantStay delivers 35% more revenue than the broader market. Dynamic revenue management and multi-channel distribution are two of the biggest drivers of these great returns. First-time investors often waste a lot of time and money operating short-term rentals on their own. A management company will take care of everything from strategic pricing and marketing to permitting, interior design, and more.
When you work with Revedy and AvantStay, you get an end-to-end solution for buying and managing vacation rental homes. Revedy makes investing in short-term rentals seamless. Their experts understand every nuance of finding, acquiring, and operating vacation rentals and can help you make the best decision possible. They even have access to upcoming opportunities and off-market deals.
Once you have your vacation rental investment secured, leave the rest to AvantStay. We offer full-service vacation rental management programs to give you peace of mind. From financials to design to maintenance, we take care of your home as if it were our own. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management, and activates an elevated guest experience. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and relax—it’s that simple.
Grab your cowboy boots and head down south – it’s time for a trip to Austin! Whether it’s your first time in ATX or you’re a seasoned Texas traveler, my 24-hour guide has got all you need to get the full Tex-perience. As a newfound local, I can vouch that from the rivers, to the springs, to all the good food in between, Austin’s a great place to visit for any occasion – whether it be a bachelorette, an anniversary, or simply a weekend getaway. Get to readin’ and see why you’ve just found your next best vacation!
4:00 PM
Arrive in the afternoon at your AvantStay, Carousel. This condo is located in a high rise right by the Rainey Street Historic District. Rainey Street is a row of historic bungalow homes that’s become an absolute must-see spot within the last 20 years. Not too long ago, people used to actually live and party at these homes! Now, the once residential homes have been converted into bars and restaurants.
5:00 PM
Drop your luggage off and head straight to the pool. Depending on what time of the year you come, it’s more than likely above 80°F – so a cool-down session is well deserved. Take in the city views while you relax on any of the cozy seating options available on the rooftop. Bring a 12-pack with you; there’s a mini fridge in the pool’s club house for your drinking pleasure.
6:00 PM
If you need to get a bit of work done before your lounging begins, head inside to the clubhouse where you’ll find even more seating, speedy WiFi, a huge TV with surround sound, a wet bar, and a ping pong table. Pull the curtains open for great natural light and a gorgeous view of the Colorado River that runs through Austin.
8:00 PM
When it’s time to switch from work to play, head to any of the local bars or restaurants just a 3-minute walk away on Rainey Street. For drinks, I recommend Anthem, a Tex-Asian Pub with lovely luau decor and all the tiki vibes. For dinner, try Banger’s Sausage House. This spot has tons of outdoor seating and the best sausage I’ve ever had.
10:00 PM
If you’re eager to keep the night going, you can walk or take a 5-minute Uber to 6th Street where the real action is always happening. No itinerary needed here, just an open mind and willingness to get your Honky Tonk on. The best place on 6th for drinks is at Midnight Cowboy. Try snagging a reservation and get the El Fumado Pimiento. If it’s booked and busy, no worries. Live music, food trucks, and bustling energy can all be found throughout this iconic street. No matter where you end up, you’ll find a good time.
9:00 AM
Try to get a healthy amount of sleep so you can wake up and get your fitness on. The world’s your oyster here at Parish – so either partake in some outdoor yoga in the courtyard or stay cool inside and break a sweat in the gym, cycling rooms, or dedicated yoga space.
10:00 AM
You’ve got one big adventure-filled day in TX ahead of you! If you’re looking for a quick breakfast spot, walk outside the building and head to Royal Blue Grocery for $4 breakfast tacos, coffee, and more.
11:00 AM
Take a trip to Barton Springs Pool. Known by locals as the best place to cool down from the ATX heat, this man-made spring stays cool no matter what time of the year you visit. Bring a picnic blanket and water, but leave your seltzers at home! No alcohol is allowed at this spot.
1:00 PM
After a nice swim sesh, you deserve a drink and some good food. Rent some bikes from the Austin B-Cycle app and take the River Trail down to Cidercade. Drop your bikes off at the nearest bike station (your app can show you where) and go inside for some good old-fashioned arcade games and a taste of local Austin ciders. Not that I’d ever pick favorites, but their Dance Dance Revolution game is the best dose of nostalgia anyone could ask for.
3:00 PM
Finish your first 24 hours in Austin with a well-deserved Uber ride back to Parish. Give yourself a pat on the back – you just packed in all the best parts of ATX into one day, and that deserves a round of applause.
4:00 PM
Once you’re back at home-base (and are well hydrated again), let the afternoon fade into evening with another rooftop pool sesh. From exploring the great outdoors and crawling the bar scene, to getting your fitness on, you’ve checked all the boxes for a perfect vacation. Now, it’s time for some good ole’ R&R for the rest of your AvantStay with us.
Don’t feel like leaving after just two days? You don’t have to! Check out all of our other great Austin AvantStays here (or think ahead and book your stay for a few more days, instead ☺).
Desert oasis. Party town. Festival hotspot. Tranquil sanctuary. Culinary destination. Palm Springs is all of these things and more. That’s why it’s an ideal destination when you and your crew need to press pause on the day-to-day and spend time recharging by the pool. Explore the best things to do in Palm Springs, and be sure to pack your sunscreen and a stylish pair of shades. Palm Springs is a mecca for sun worshippers or anyone longing to feel a few rays on their shoulders before tucking themselves away in a cabana with a colorful drink in hand.
The arid getaway’s aesthetic evokes the Hollywood glamour of yesteryear with its glassy mid-century modern houses and breathtaking Spanish villas with red Terracotta tile roofs tucked away in the hillsides.
This picturesque locale truly comes alive in the summer with festivals like Coachella and Stagecoach kicking its already vibrant party scene into overdrive. So don’t be surprised if you see many bachelorette parties in Palm Springs. Of course, if your vibe is more low-key, Palm Springs is the perfect place to spend time not doing much of anything besides relaxing by the pool with your favorite people.
Hotel El Cid by AvantStay
Adrenaline-pumping activities
1. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Catch a thrilling ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway in a glassed-in vessel that rises 2.5 miles straight up Chino Canyon in 10 minutes flat. Views from the top are astounding, and there are hiking trails, dining options, and a museum to visit.
2. Agua Caliente Casino
Gaming tables, live entertainment, and slot machines tempt adults at the Agua Caliente Casinos in both Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage. Profits support the Agua Caliente Band of the Cahuilla Indians, keeping their community and culture vibrant into the 21st century.
3. Coachella Music Festival
Attend the country’s largest music festival: Coachella. Held annually in Indio, a town about 30 minutes from Palm Springs, one pricey ticket gets you several days of top-rated musical entertainment for the young and young at heart – and the hungry. For festival pass holders, Outstanding In The Field sets a long table in the tranquil hideaway of the VIP Rose Garden. This intimate area allows you to take refuge (and a seat) at the festival while you mingle with other guests over a full-service, four-course, family-style meal, a cocktail, and some regional wine. Dinner is served around sunset. Tickets for this dinner are priced separately and seating is reserved.
4. Indian Canyons Trails
Hike at any of the groups of trails at Indian Canyons. Just nine miles south of town, these easy and well-marked hiking paths run along a stream bed and boast shade from the heat, thanks to giant palm trees. Tahquitz Canyon in particular is one of the most beautiful and culturally sensitive areas of the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation and is home to a spectacular, seasonal 60-foot waterfall, rock art, ancient irrigation systems, native wildlife, and plants. This Canyon is sacred to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
Source: Visit Greater Palm Springs
5. Bike Palm Springs
Put the pedal to the metal, or better yet, rent an electric bicycle at Bike Palm Springs. With flat terrain and multiple bike paths, Palm Springs is ideal for this mode of transportation. City maps, bike locks, and helmets come with an hourly rental cost.
6. Stagecoach Festival
Crazy about country music? You’ll want to attend Stagecoach Festival, the country’s largest country music festival, held over three days in April in Coachella Valley. Other festivals hosted here range from pedigree dog shows and polo matches to BBQ competitions and Cabazon Indian Pow-Wows.
7. BMW Performance Center
Take the wheel at the BMW Performance Center for a fun thing – and an unforgettable experience. This is a great way to sample several BMW vehicles. Take the wheel of a BMW X vehicle as you follow an instructor through a challenging off-road course. Then, head to the track and rotate between various BMW vehicles, driving each through tight corners and fast straightaways. Finally, buckle up in the passenger seat for a hot lap with an instructor as they drift and accelerate around the track.
8. Red Jeep Tours
Take a Red Jeep Tours open-air jeep ride for an engaging, entertaining, and educational journey with a highly-trained naturalist tour guide at the wheel.
Source: Palm Springs Life
Find your zen
9. Cholla Cactus Garden
Catch the sunrise from the Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree National Park, a major attraction located about 40 miles from Palm Springs. Take the quarter-mile trail to a 10-acre patch containing more than 20 varieties of cacti, with evocative names like Groundcherry and Cheesebush, and watch the desert sky come to life.
10. State Fare Bar and Kitchen
Savor sunsets at the lounge in The Ritz-Carlton’s State Fare Bar and Kitchen in nearby Rancho Mirage (just turn up Frank Sinatra Drive). Located on a bluff 700 feet above the valley, there is no better place to sip a cocktail and build your own pizza while the sky turns pink and purple in the distance.
11. Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory
Stargaze at the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory. This is a complimentary night-time activity that will thrill adults and kids alike. Located adjacent to the town’s public library, there’s a full-time astronomer onsite nightly.
12. Desert Hot Springs
Take the plunge into Desert Hot Springs. Thermal mineral waters have sprung up from the earth surrounding the San Andreas Fault for hundreds of years. Dozens of local resorts offer day passes to soak in the waters which are known to cure joint aches and arthritis, migraines, depression, and low energy.
Source: Visit Greater Palm Springs
Where to gawk
13. Palm Springs Celebrity Tours
Book a Celebrity Homes guided tour with Palm Springs Celebrity Tours and gawk at the residences of Cary Grant, Marilyn Monroe, Katherine Hepburn, Elvis, Sinatra, and Dean Martin from the comfort of a Land Rover. Guides will spill juicy details of the owners’ lives (and loves) here along the way.
14. Palm Springs Historical Society
The Palm Springs Historical Society provides a handful of well-priced, in-depth tours by foot or by bike, including the storied Las Palmas neighborhood to see where Judy Garland, Gene Autry, Lena Horne, Kirk Douglas, and Dinah Shores lived and played.
15. Palm Springs Walking Tour
Take a walking tour of Palm Springs. Download the GPSmyCity app on your phone and follow the map for sightseeing at its best. You’ll log about 4.5 miles and will see a lot in those three hours.
16. Palm Springs Art Museum
Get cultured at the Palm Springs Art Museum, whose collection includes 12,000 modern and contemporary works. It’s free on Thursdays, second Sundays, and for those under 18.
17. Architecture Tours
Be awed by an architecture tour. There are numerous local operators to choose from, including Palm Springs Mod Squad, and you can customize tours by your interest level, budget, and available time.
Source: Palm Springs Mod Squad
18. Sunnylands
Scope out Sunnylands, a 200-acre property built by Walter and Lenore Annenberg. Tour their historic estate, ride a shuttle around the extensive grounds, learn about native birds, and stroll through a garden whose colorful blooms were inspired by the couple’s Post-Impressionist art collection. Advance tickets are required.
19. Palm Springs Air Museum
Treat yourself to a visit at the Palm Springs Air Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of flyable aircraft from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, displayed in a hangar that lets you get up close and personal with the planes. Here, you’ll have access to exhibits, activities, air shows, and the opportunity to take a one-hour ride in one of four vintage airplanes, priced from $200 to $5,000.
Moorten Botanical Garden is a privately-owned arboretum created to share the beauty and extraordinary varieties of desert plants with visitors. The Moortens are desert plant specialists happy to invite you to their residence estate. There’s something of interest for everyone here, with glistening crystals, colorful rocks, ancient fossils, and pioneer and gold mining relics. Classic collections on display include more than 3,000 varieties of plants designed in concentrated habitats along a nature trail.
Source: The Horticult
22. The Shag Store
The Shag Store is an art gallery and retail space located in the Palm Springs Uptown Design District, dedicated exclusively to the artist Josh Agle Shag and his distinctive artistic style that draws on his sly sense of humor. The store offers prints, original art, merchandise, and unique products that capture the spirit of desert modernism.
23. Windmill Tour
The best place to catch a breeze may be on a Windmill Tour. These giant wind turbines are an iconic symbol as you arrive in the Coachella Valley. Take a self-driving windmill tour or off-road bike tour to explore the evolution of wind turbines on a private wind farm. The tour allows you to exit at each stop and guides you with a curated video.
Source: Palm Springs Windmill Tours
Best places to eat in Palm Springs
24. Johannes
Reserve your seat for dinner at Johannes. Named for its chef-owner, who hails from the Tyrolean Alps, this stylish downtown outpost is ideal for indulging in Austrian classics like wiener schnitzel or Jager beef steak.
25. Le Vallauris
Splurge at Le Vallauris on Tahquitz Canyon Way. Its terrace was constructed around a stand of mature shade trees to keep diners cool. Try the three-course prix fixe menu for $97 and peruse the options on the 22-page wine list. If you prefer to dine al fresco, the garden patio is perfectly romantic, situated among Lupe Ficus trees and the scent of the sweet desert air.
26. La Quinta Brewing Company Taproom
Quaff a cold one at La Quinta Brewing Company Taproom. This local microbrewery offers a dozen or so beers that rotate seasonally. Look for Poolside Blonde, Even Par, or Sundaze Session IPA. Go at Happy Hour most weekdays from 3-5 pm to enjoy $2 off per glass.
27. Eight4Nine Restaurant and Lounge
Eight4Nine Restaurant and Lounge is located in the fashionable Uptown Design District of Palm Springs and is open for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch. Dishes like the Five Spice Duck Confit with Jerusalem artichoke puree, port, and damson sauce and dessert of Brandini Toffee S’Mores Fondue with house-made marshmallow, locally-made Brandini toffee, Callebaut chocolate, graham crackers, and mixed berries are sure to get your mouth watering.
Source: Gay Desert Guide
Best spots to shop
28. Shopping For Her
From quirky independent boutiques to designer outlets, Palm Springs has an amazing variety of things to buy. Relax and stroll northbound on Indian Palms Street, then southbound on Palm Canyon Drive. Don’t miss the chance to scoop up a new warm-weather frock at Elizabeth & Prince, Revenge Boutique, Oooh La La consignments, and Blonde.
29. Shopping For Him
For him, try on the Wil Stiles men’s department, referred to as a “steroid boost in the sport of competitive dressing.” Mod-patterned, cotton short-sleeved shirts reminiscent of Piccadilly Circus sell for about $140.
30. Spa Treatments
Save your skin. The Palm Springs dry air and sunshine call for a stop at one of the dozens of day spas scattered throughout Palm Springs. Be sure to treat yourself to a skin tune-up. Peruse the selection of serious facials at Organic Glow Skin Studio, with treatments that range from $50-$100.
31. Palm Springs VillageFest
The Palm Springs VillageFest in Coachella Valley is the place to be on Thursday nights. This street fair features arts, crafts, food, and entertainment within the beautiful downtown Palm Springs
The Monkey Tree Hotel by AvantStay
Best golf courses in Palm Springs
32. Rancho Las Palmas Country Club
The golf course at Rancho Las Palmas Country Club requires membership, but if you like your bogey with a side of palm trees, lakes, rolling terrain, and views of the San Jacinto Mountains, you’ll want to sign up. These three 9-hole courses were designed by the best in the business. Call for tee times and get there early to enjoy a breakfast of Brioche French Toast or Tofu Scramble at the club’s onsite restaurant, BluEmber.
33. Nicklaus Tournament Golf Course
If you’re booked to stay at AvantStay’s Fowler rental in Coachella Valley, golf is just beyond this vibrant home. In fact, it overlooks the famous Nicklaus Tournament Golf Course and Santa Rosa mountains. You don’t have to be a member to play golf in this 2,000-acre golf and lifestyle community in La Quinta. You might even spot a few high-profile celebrities, PGA tour pros, and quite possibly a U.S. President. Many have enjoyed this golf course with 109 holes of championship golf on six legendary courses.
The Marley Hotel by AvantStay
If you’re in need of an exciting getaway in a warm, spirited city, Palm Springs is the perfect vacation spot for you. From highly-anticipated events like Coachella & the Stagecoach Festival to breathtaking gardens and sprawling golf courses, this place is sure to introduce you to something new. See for yourself by booking with one of AvantStay’s Palm Spring hotels.
Take the road less traveled this summer and stay at one of AvantStay’s cabinesque homes, guaranteed to satisfy that long-lost nostalgia you have for summer camp. Our collection of woodsy properties feature hot tubs under the stars, al fresco dining experiences, and rustic vibes that will take you back to the good ol’ days around the fire pit with your favorite people..
Tarly – Tahoe
Let’s start this round-up right. Meet Tarly, a cabin nestled deep in the pines of Lake Tahoe, CA. The best way to stay is with 7 of your favorite people hanging out in the jacuzzi under the pines. High wood beamed ceilings, a cozy fireplace, two large patios, and a grill with a view make it all even campier.
Chateau Syrah – Temecula
Meet Chateau Syrah. The whole crew gets to tag along to this cabin-shaped chateau, which sleeps up to 22 people. Spend days lounging by the pool, grilling out courtesy of the outdoor kitchen, or taking a short drive to Wilson Creek Winery. Finish the night off with a dip in the hot tub. Steamy!
Ute Lodge – Telluride
No cabin fever here. Meet Ute Lodge, a Colorado escape just minutes from the Telluride slopes that provides endless activities for you and your group no matter what sort of vacation you have in mind. Enjoy al fresco dinners on the expansive patio, stargazing from the fire pit, and soaking away any ski soreness in the jacuzzi.
Bighorn – Vail
Bighorn. Big house. Big views. Bighorn. You get the point. This secluded mountain home sleeps up to 12 guests and is ideally located for those looking to spend time at nearby attractions, including the Vail Ski Resort, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, and the Vail Farmers Market. A short drive from the resort, the abode’s bright and contemporary interior, along with two private units downstairs, create the perfect environment for a group who knows the beauty of spreading out after a long day on the slopes.
Klamath – Sunriver OR
Things just add up at Klamath.Come here for the unbeatable lakeside views, the best of outdoor living, and fire pit moments featuring aromatic pine. Find your bliss with a cocktail in the hot tub— an unbeatable combo. Whether you’re coming to Central Oregon for skiing, mountain biking, or hiking, this charming waterfront home provides the perfect (oversized) cabinesque retreat after a day of adventure in Bend.
Santo Cristo – Arch Cape, OR Coast
Start the group chat – you’re going to the Oregon Coast. Santo Cristo is a quiet retreat just 15 minutes south of Cannon Beach,where the old-growth forest meets the Pacific Ocean. This home gives all the cabin vibes with natural wood accents, contemporary furnishings, and encompassing views of the trees. If you’re lucky, you’ll spy whales migrating off-shore or witness massive storm waves rolling into Gull Rock.
Raven – Sullivans Island, Charleston, SC
The higher the decks, the better the stay. Reach new heights at Raven, an ultra unique property featuring a 4-level deck, each with its own balcony. Complete with a game room, pool, and hot tub, this Charleston retreat is ready to entertain all your fellow campers with its plentiful amenities and prime location. A short trip to the Sullivan’s Island Nature Trail, Station 18 Beach, and Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, Raven is here to entertain both in-home and out.
Red Hawk – Park City
Hellooo, Park City! Situated just a few blocks away from the historic Main Street, Red Hawk is a haven for those looking to explore the town center. Plush outdoor sofas cover the expansive deck, encouraging you to take full advantage of the outdoor grill—which, by the way, we make easy to do with fridge stocking service, easily booked through the AvantStay app. (this is a camp-inspired experience, after all). You can order a BBQ package at the touch of a button and skip the grocery store all together. Relax after dinner by vibing out in the hot tub, then head to the in-home theater to watch a movie on the 90′ screen. It doesn’t get much glamp-ier than this.
Haywood – Sevierville, Smokies
Hay is for horses, and Haywood is for relaxation. Enter, the ultimate decompression session. After a day hiking one of the many trails in the Great Smoky National Park, find yourself sprawled out on one of the three balconies this home has to offer. An indoor pool, hot tubs, rocking chairs, and picture-perfect views of the Smokies make this Sevierville cabin one of the best for those looking to disconnect to reconnect with Mother Nature.
Sugarland – Pigeon Forge, TN
Last but certainly not least is Sugarland.If you’re not in the mood for a hike but want to enjoy the scenery, this stay provides jaw-dropping panoramic views with its large windows and comes with a fireplace for extra coziness. Sugarland takes all those nostalgic camping activities you know and love, and gives them a full upgrade. Check out its two steamy hot tubs, an indoor pool, home theater, and game room. Add on its massive balcony and the fact that Dollywood is a mere 30-minute drive away, and you’ve got the ultimate cabin escape. Watch out fellow campers, this home’s bringing the competition.
Need more cabin inspo? Check out our full list of cabins that are perfect for your summer getaway.
Key West enjoys a privileged vacation in southwest Florida, claiming the title of the southernmost city in the continental United States. Although Key West is a mere four miles long and 1.5 miles wide, this tourist attraction packs a punch with activities to do.
Did you know that Key West is that it’s closer to Cuba than it is to Miami? Cuba is only 95 miles away at its nearest point, whereas Miami is 130 miles by flight, offering bragging rights when you return from your vacation or choose to call Key West home.
Before the 19th century, the Native American tribes Calusa and Tequesta lived in Key West. Once the Spanish transferred Florida from Spain to Great Britain in 1763, they moved these natives to Cuba. It wasn’t until 1822 when Lieutenant Commander Matthew C. Perry set a U.S. flag in the Florida Keys and declared it American territory.
Since then, Americans and foreigners alike have flocked to experience the historical and nature-based things to do in Key West. Some people even love it so much that they decide to make Key West their permanent home base. Regardless of your situation, we’ll share the must-dos in Key West. So, get ready and take notes of the best Key West attractions.
1. Make a Bee-line to Duval Street
Duval Street is the place to see in Key West if you’re short on time. The approximately one-mile street sits in the heart of Key West’s old town, between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
Many of the activities we’ll be discussing here call Duval Street home, as it boasts many famous Key West restaurants, attractions, and shops. You can expect crowds day and night along Duval Street, and the nightlife there is outstanding. Live music and street performers make the experience even more special.
2. Meander Around Mallory Square
Mallory Square is an iconic place in Key West, which sits south of Duval Street. The ample space sits on a historic waterfront area of Key West, and you’ll find countless dining and shopping options equipped with souvenirs.
Watching the sunset at Mallory Square is a must when you’re in Key West. Just be prepared to share the view with hundreds of others vying for a good viewpoint. Once the sun goes down, Mallory Square comes to life with free live street performances called the Sunset Celebration, some of which have adult content.
3. Explore Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Fort Zachary Taylor is a state park that predates the Civil War. It’s a budget-friendly thing to do in Key West, given that you pay per vehicle instead of per person. History lovers will appreciate the brick paths that lead you through cannons and gun ports. You can hire a tour guide for more historical context.
Fort Zachary also offers a wonderful respite for relaxing on the beach, swimming in crystal clear water, snorkeling, and several other water sports.
4. Walk Through Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is anything but dry—the only way to arrive at this 100-square-mile park is via boat or seaplane. The park comprises seven islands and is world-renown for the picturesque Fort Jefferson, a former prison during the civil war.
During your day trip to Dry Tortugas, you can take a guided tour of Fort Jefferson, walk pristine beaches, snorkel with colorful fish, and relax in the sun.
5. Stand at America’s Southernmost Point
No trip to Key West is complete without visiting the Southernmost Point, a buoy on the shore that represents the southernmost part of the continental United States. The buoy sits at the end of Old Town Key West surrounded by historic homes and architecture as well as several of Key West’s best bars and restaurants. If you’re hoping to snap a photo of yourself next to the buoy without eating into too much of your day, definitely plan on arriving there at dawn since it gets really crowded at sunset.
A common misconception of non-locals is that you can see Cuba from the Southernmost Point. Unfortunately, you’d need a really big set of binoculars to do that since it’s impossible to see farther than 16 miles on the water anywhere in the world due to the curvature of the earth.
6. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Ernest Hemingway is arguably Key West’s most famous resident and the museum that was once his home is one of Key West’s most popular places to visit. You also may not think of visiting a museum to see real-life six-toed cats, but it’s a great way to coax the non-history buff to go here. Legend has it that Hemingway received a six-toed cat from a captain of a ship, and today many of this cat’s six-toed descendants still wander the museum’s property.
Aside from cats, what makes the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum a must-visit is that you’ll get to explore the actual place where one of America’s greatest authors wrote 70% of his work.
7. Snorkel With Tropical Fish
Whether you bring your own gear or rent from one of the many dive and snorkel shops on the island, Key West is one of the best and only places in the continental U.S. to discover coral reefs and see colorful tropical fish. Some of the best locations to do so include:
You can also sign up for a boat tour that will take you to snorkeling spots away from mainland Key West and in particular out to the coral barrier reef 7-miles offshore which is the third longest in the world. If you love the water and have never been to the tropics before, take at least one snorkel boat trip since the reefs are in better shape offshore because they receive less human traffic.
8. Dive To See the Vandenberg
The Vandenberg is a scuttled former U.S. Navy ship that scientists intentionally sunk in 2009 to purposefully help to create an artificial coral reef to give fish and other marine life a place to thrive and new coral the opportunity to grow.
Nowadays, it’s a favorite spot for both experienced and novice scuba divers, as there are approximately ten stories of ship structure to explore. At its greatest depth, the Vandenberg sits 150 feet underwater off the coast of Key West and is considered one of the best wreck dives in the Florida Keys.
9. Tour the Harry S. Truman Little White House
The Harry S. Truman Little White House was the winter haven for former President Truman. Formerly, the house was part of the Key West Naval Station. But when Truman fell ill in 1946, his doctor prescribed him a warm vacation getaway.
He loved his time there so much that he started visiting more frequently, realizing that he could turn any place into the White House as long as he worked there. Nowadays, you can take a guided tour through Truman’s former home.
10. Take a Sunset Cruise
One of the most iconic things to do in Key West is to take a sunset cruise tour since there are 360-degree views of the sunset from almost everywhere on the water. There’s no shortage of tour agencies ready to book your trip, and you can choose from various sunset cruises, boat styles, and lengths of time to suit people of all ages, budgets, and interests.
Private charters, dinner cruises, and dolphin tours combined with watching the sunset are some of the many choices you’ll have. We encourage you to shop around to land the best price. And if you’re looking for an extra special trip, hiring an event planner is an excellent option.
11. Spend Time at the Key West Aquarium
The Key West Aquarium is one of the best things to do in Key West for families. Here you’ll learn about the hundreds of marine species native to the Key West area, the coral barrier reef, as well as marine conservation efforts to conserve it. When it opened its doors in 1935, the aquarium cost 15 cents for an adult ticket. Although you can’t snag such a deal there these days, the touch tank and educational programs make it well worth the visit, especially for young kids.
Some of the species you’ll encounter at the Key West Aquarium include sharks, stingrays, and dozens of different tropical fish. They even have animals such as iguanas and an American Alligator.
12. Kayak Through Mangroves
Mangroves play a vital role in Key West’s ecosystem, given that they offer shelter and food for marine and non-marine animals alike. They also help prevent coastal erosion.
By visiting Key West, you can enjoy exploring the mangroves in an eco-friendly way by renting kayaks. Because the mangroves protect you from wind and waves, you can expect a peaceful experience as you watch crabs climbing on the roots, fish swimming beside you, and birds flying overhead.
13. Admire the Audubon House and Tropical Gardens
Visiting the Audubon House and Tropical Gardens is a fantastic option if you want to travel back in time during your stay in Key West. You’ll get to wander through the rooms of this 1840s house, which was home to one of Key West’s most famous mariners, Captain John Huling Geiger.
You’ll feel the luxury the moment you step inside Geiger’s home since like many of Key West’s historic captains he earned a fortune from the shipwrecking industry. The tropical gardens are equally as jaw-dropping as the architecture, making you feel that you’re in a Caribbean oasis surrounded by orchids, palms, crotons, and colorful birds and butterflies.
14. Hop on a Bike
There are limited parking spots on Key West, and the fees are expensive, which makes exploring the island by bike an excellent option. Due to the island’s small size, a person of average fitness level can easily explore the entire island by bike.
You’ll encounter many racks around the town where you can store your bike—just be sure your bike rental company gives you a lock. If you’re traveling during the summer, bring lots of water, for the sun is strong.
15. Go on a Dolphin-watching Excursion
We’ll lead with this—seeing dolphins from the shore when walking along Key West’s coast is possible. But if you want a chance to see them closer, taking a dolphin boat tour is an excellent choice.
Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins are the most popular type of dolphin in Key West. Although no tour company can guarantee wild dolphin sightings, these mammals are accustomed to tourists, so it’s common for them to approach boats.
16. Observe Butterflies at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
The family-friendly Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is an exciting way to get up close to butterflies, many of which are native to Key West and the Florida Keys. If you get lucky, one of the hundreds of butterflies at the conservatory also might just land on you!
You’ll also get to admire tropical birds, including two flamingos. And don’t miss the opportunity to take home a real butterfly souvenir. If you drive, the left side of the building behind the garden has free parking.
17. Explore a Warship at the Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum
Visitors to Key West fascinated by maritime history will have an opportunity to geek out on the past by visiting the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham. The Ingham is the only ship today still afloat that’s received two U.S. Presidential Unit Citations for heroism.
You can tour the Ingham by heading to the Truman Waterfront near Truman’s winter White House. If you have young children that aren’t interested in visiting the ship, they can play at a multi-million dollar playground equipped with water slides.
18. Give Your Feet a Break on the Key West Trolley
Even though Key West is small, you can easily rack up 10,000 steps and more by crisscrossing the island as you visit all of the amazing places to see and visit. So buying a one or two-day pass on one of Key West’s hop-on-hop-off trolleys is one of the best things to do in the Conch Republic to spare your feet and save some time.
The trolley makes 13 stops at Key West’s most notable points of interest. You can get off at each stop or spend the day cruising around the trolley sightseeing. Best of all, the trolley has frequent departures, so you don’t have to crimp your sightseeing schedule around theirs.
19. Learn About the Florida Keys at the Eco-discovery Center
Depending on what you choose to do, a visit to Key West can do a number on your bank account, but it doesn’t have to. The Eco-Discovery Center is an excellent example of this. It’s an admission-free 6,000-square-foot facility that offers an in-depth way to learn about the plants and animals native to the Florida Keys and is great for both kids and adults.
During your visit to the Eco-Discovery Center, you can learn about coral reefs, shipwrecks, marine life, plants, endangered species, and the tracking tools scientists use to monitor the ocean’s health, and more. You can also observe live fish and other marine life in a 2,500-gallon reef tank and experience a mock version of Aquarius, the only underwater ocean laboratory in the world.
20. Gawk at the Buildings at Key West Bight Marina
Key West Bight is a place to wander the marina as your head swivels between admiring the architecture of old homes and looking at flashy modern boats docked at the port. It’s a place for tourists and locals alike to enjoy an afternoon stroll or a fine dining experience at one of the many restaurants.
Visiting the Key West Bight Marina is also an excellent place to go shopping or book the tour you’ve been meaning to arrange. It’s a bustling area and has been that way for almost 200 years, as the marina has been a central place for Key West’s economic survival.
21. Climb the Key West Lighthouse
The Key West Lighthouse formerly belonged to the U.S. Navy. Nowadays, visitors can climb up its 88-step staircase for stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, downtown Key West, and the rest of the Lower Florida Keys.
The Key West Lighthouse is open seven days a week. But don’t expect to climb to the top at sunset since the last admission is at 4:30 pm. You can also book discounted tickets online which will save you a little bit of money.
22. Partake in Water Sports
It should come as no surprise that visiting an island like Key West surrounded by the ocean offers the opportunity to experience water sports until you can’t take it anymore. In addition to booking a sunset boat tour or snorkeling or diving excursion, you can get your adrenaline pumping with dozens of other water sports including:
You can also rent a boat and spend a day on the water exploring Key West at your leisure on your own. Since there’s so much competition among water sports tour providers, you can often negotiate a good deal, especially if you want to book more than one tour.
23. Beach Yourself at Lagerheads
Lagerheads Beach is one of the best (and only) strips of sandy beach in Key West and Lagerheads Beach Bar is one of the best places on the island to find an excellent selection of food, drinks, snorkel gear, and more for a day of fun in the sun.
It’s common to encounter locals kicking back here with a drink under one of Lagerheads’ many shaded tables and chatting about island life. Best of all, since Lagerheads isn’t in the center of Key West’s most touristy attractions, it has relatively fewer crowds and it’s easier to get in.
24. Escape the Rain at Tropic Cinema
Rain keeps Key West the lush and tropical island oasis that visitors and locals love, so you should have some indoor backups during your time here. Tropic Cinema is an excellent option, as it’s an independent cinema that features a combination of Hollywood blockbusters as well as international indy films.
There’s no mistaking this cinema for the cineplex-style movie theater you’ve been to in the past; it has an Art Deco marquee flair. You’ll also encounter a Marilyn Monroe sculpture and Key West’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Don’t miss out on the chance to purchase popcorn at Tropic Cinema, which is famous on the island.
25. See Artifacts at the Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Key West is legendary for pirates, shipwrecks, and underwater treasure hunters so the Shipwreck Treasure Museum is a fun way to get your kids interested in maritime history and the ocean. In addition to exploring the museum with real artifacts collected from shipwrecks, you can climb up to the Captain’s Observatory and see how captains used to spot cargo ships.
The museum does an excellent job of narrating thrilling true stories about the mariners who risked their lives to collect treasure buried at the bottom of the ocean around Key West before advanced, modern scuba diving and underwater sonar equipment existed.
26. Partake in the Party at Fantasy Fest
If you’re looking for some adult fun, Fantasy Fest is a classic Key West festival that occurs for ten days every October. It was started in 1979 by “Conchs” (locals born in Key West) and is now one of the most anticipated annual events on the island. It’s also an excellent opportunity for locals to rent out their homes through a vacation rental management company.
Fantasy Fest is a bit like a week-long Halloween party for adults. People dress up in elaborate costumes and makeup, partaking in parades and parties that seem to run 24/7. One of the biggest highlights during Fantasy Fest is the Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade, which gives Superbowl ads a run for their money.
27. Learn About Cuban History at the San Carlos Institute
The San Carlos Institute is a looker from the outside with its tasteful architecture, and inside it holds a trove of Conch Republic history. Started in 1871 by Cubans exiled in Key West, it was once one of the foundations of Cuba’s independence movement.
Visitors to the San Carlos Institute can browse through a museum, art gallery, and library and there’s also a theater and school. The San Carlos Institute is an excellent place for people wanting to have a deeper understanding of Cuban history as it relates to Key West and the close connection between the two islands.
28. Visit the Oldest Eatery in the Florida Keys
Pepe’s Cafe is Key West’s local secret that’s no longer a secret. The restaurant opened its doors in 1909, making it the oldest restaurant operating in the Florida Keys. It’s hard not to fall in love with Pepe’s as you dine outside in an environment that will take you back in time to old Florida life.
One of the best things to do in Key West when your feet are tired from exploring is to eat—and Pepe is one of the best and most historic places on the island to do this. They bake their own bread, shuck their oysters in-house, and all of their salad dressings are handmade.
29. Learn About Sea Turtles at the Turtle Museum
The Turtle Museum is a small but charming opportunity for kids and adults to learn about the endangered sea turtles that are native to the Florida Keys. There’s no entrance fee to visit and you’ll learn the fascinating background of how sea turtles lay eggs, migrate, and survive in the ocean environment, as well as see some actual sea turtle bones up close.
The Turtle Museum also offers kid-friendly activities to keep younger visitors engaged. By the time you leave the Turtle Museum, you’ll be ready to protect these majestic sea creatures that have become so vulnerable in the Florida Keys and elsewhere around the globe.
30. Grab a Drink at Sloppy Joes
If you only have one chance to visit a taproom in Key West, make it Sloppy Joes. The beloved bar on Duval Street established itself on the day that the U.S. government repealed prohibition. At the time, it was a speakeasy. Now, it’s a favorite spot for tourists and locals to get their fill of alcohol.
And, yes, you can buy an infamous sloppy joe sandwich from Sloppy Joes. The no-frill ingredients of ground beef, tomato sauce, onions, and peppers might sound simple, but it’s the go-to order for many people visiting this bar. If sloppy joes aren’t your thing, Sloppy Joes offers an extensive menu of other food, including their famous key lime pie.
31. Go Back in Time to the Oldest House Museum
There’s no trick to this place’s name; the Oldest House Museum is the oldest house in Key West and claims the title of the oldest house in South Florida, built in 1829.
Some people prefer to admire the Oldest House Museum from the outside, as you’ll pass it walking down Duval Street. But if you love history, you’ll want to give this museum a tour. It contains the oldest Cook House remaining in South Florida and tells the amazing story of the many generations of people who have occupied the home over the years.
Conclusion
We’re confident you’ll have a fantastic vacation since there are so many fun things to do in Key West. However, as some departing advice, note that only one road leads to Key West from the continental U.S.
So, if you drive there, pack some snacks and a flexible mindset in case an accident on the road delays your arrival. We guarantee the activities in Key West will make it worth the wait.
It’s s’more season. What better way to satisfy that outdoors-itch than by glamping it up next to an oh-so-cozy fire pit with a view? Check out these toasty terrains you should consider booking for your next weekend getaway.
Moonshine – Coachella Valley, CA
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A real hole-in-one Coachella Valley getaway. This home in La Quinta, CA is a great getaway for those looking to unwind in style. Situated right in the heart of the PGA West Golf Course, Moonshine is ideal for those looking to make their vacay a true winner. Spend the day on the golf course, or trot down to Lake Cahuilla Equestrian & Group Camp. For a more relaxing day, find yourself perched up poolside. When the sun goes down, enjoy this beautiful fire pit, perfect for sipping cocktails as the sun sets.
Holly – Breckenridge, CO
For us, the best way to end a day of hitting the slopes is sitting with a hot toddy by a fireplace. But that’s just us. Take that experience to the next level by staying at Holly – a blissful Breckenridge stay situated right at the foot of the mountains, and just a short drive from the Breckenridge Ski Resort and Vail Pass Path. Keep the party going by bringing your toddies to the hot tub – and that’s what we call an elevated vacation night.
Jackrabbit Ridge – Joshua Tree, CA
One thing about Jackrabbit Ridge – it comes with plenty to do and plenty of room. When you’re not cozied up by the fire pit or soaking in the pool with the 9 other guests this stay can accommodate, feel free to adventure off to Joshua Tree National Park or Hawks Landing Golf Course. End the night with a night swim, and you’ve officially hit all your vacation must-haves.
Pioneer – Powell Butte, Central OR
Talk about a view.Pioneer is an exceptional ranch-style home located within the Brasada Ranch community. This home’s elegant fire pit is situated on an expansive patio, complete with plenty of space for you and 9 of your friends. When you’re ready to hit the road and explore, Bend is only a short drive away and is home to tons of famous breweries and bites. Adventure seekers: grab your skis and feel for yourself Oregon’s best powder on the infamous Mt. Bachelor.
Starting an Airbnb business can be a lucrative venture. According to Airbnb, the average income for US hosts recently rose to $13,800, an 85% increase from 2019. Not a bad chunk of change for an additional income stream. However, the money won’t be flooding in the moment you begin your new hosting gig; there are a lot of moving parts when managing a vacation rental, and the hosts that go above and beyond are the ones that outperform the rest. If you’re ready to take on the role of a vacation rental host, this guide will teach you how to start an Airbnb business and maximize your revenue.
Getting started — Airbnb business basics
Before starting your Airbnb business, there are a few crucial boxes to check, from complying with local short-term rental laws to budgeting for taxes and Airbnb fees.
Short-term rental permits
Before you attempt to start an Airbnb business, make sure your local government allows short-term rentals. Every state, county, and city has its own short-term rental laws. These often change, so make sure you’re fully up-to-date and understand the current rules and regulations in place for your market.
You’ll likely need a general business license or short-term rental permit. These ensure your vacation rental is compliant with zoning restrictions and meet the local health and safety requirements. You’ll also need to get permission from your landlord or homeowners association to rent your home on a short-term basis.
Short-term rental taxes
The IRS will recognize your Airbnb venture as a legitimate business, so you’ll need to keep track of your income and expenses for your federal tax return. You’ll likely be able to deduct expenses from running your Airbnb business, including utilities, property repairs, cleaning services, and more.
In most locations, Airbnb automatically collects and pays occupancy taxes on behalf of hosts. This isn’t the case in all jurisdictions, so check to see if your listing is eligible.
Also, consider working with a tax professional to make sure you’re always in good standing with the IRS.
Airbnb fees
While it’s free to list vacation rentals on Airbnb, most hosts pay a fee of 14-16% for each booking’s subtotal. This percentage can be higher depending on location, your cancellation policy, and if you’re an Airbnb Plus host. Keep the hosting fee in mind when setting your price.
How to start an Airbnb — next steps
Assuming you already have a home to rent on Airbnb, whether it’s your primary residence or an investment property, the following steps will help you kickstart your Airbnb business.
Prepare and furnish your space
A well-stocked thoughtfully designed and furnished Airbnb not only creates a positive guest experience but leads to better reviews and increased bookings. Make sure you tackle the following before welcoming your first guests:
Install keyless entry locks for contactless check-in and issue designated codes for your housekeeping team
Furnish your home with modern appliances and gadgets
Style your space with elevated, locally inspired furniture and decor
Create a welcome book/house manual (physical or digital) for your guests
Assemble a network of local support teams
From housekeeping to landscaping and maintenance, create a solid team of local contractors that you can trust to keep your Airbnb property in pristine condition. Build a strong relationship with these folks as they’ll be your right hand running a successful Airbnb business. Some team members to consider:
Housekeepers
Repairman
Plumber
Electrician
Landscapers
Accountant
Property Manager
Strategically price your Airbnb
Pricing your Airbnb property for market and seasonal trends is one of the trickiest parts of running a vacation rental. If traveler demand is high in your market, you could lose money by pricing your home too low. On the other hand, if your home is priced too high, you could lose potential bookings. Research your local market so you can accurately and competitively charge for bedroom count, amenities, views, proximity to local attractions, and other key features.
Create and optimize your listing
Your Airbnb listing is your first touchpoint with potential guests. Start with your title, description, and keywords. Your title should describe your vacation rental and leave potential guests compelled to click your listing. Then you can use your description to paint a picture of the guest experience at your home, including all the details that make your property unique.
When writing your headline and description, incorporate search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to further boost your reach. Research search terms (“keywords”) that are popular in your market and add those to your listing. Some examples include, “private beachfront home in Destin” or “dog-friendly Scottsdale vacation rental.”
Don’t just list amenities—describe how guests can make their own memories at your home! Do you have a private hot tub perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring? Or a patio with an ocean view paired well with morning coffee or evening cocktails? Use these in your Airbnb listing to encourage travelers to hit “Reserve.”
In addition, splurge on a professional photographer to take high-resolution photos of your vacation rental that accurately reflect the space, amenities, views, and what guests can expect when they walk into your Airbnb. Photos help guests imagine themselves in your space and create their own stories.
How to become a Superhost on Airbnb
Airbnb hosts that go above and beyond to create an exceptional guest experience are given a Superhost badge and additional promotions to reach more guests.
Every three months, Airbnb checks if you’ve met their requirements for the past year so you can earn or keep your Superhost status (no application needed!). To qualify for an Airbnb Superhost badge, you must:
Host at least 10 trips, or have 3 reservations that total at least 100 nights
Maintain a 90% response rate or higher
Maintain a 1% cancellation rate (1 cancellation per 100 reservations) or lower
Maintain a 4.8 overall rating
Partner with an expert vacation rental manager
Running a successful Airbnb business can be expensive, tedious, and time-consuming. So, why not partner with an expert who can do all the work for you?
AvantStay has been a top-rated Superhost for 22 consecutive quarters, so we know what it takes to take your home to the next level and maximize your revenue. We offer the first hands-off approach for vacation rental owners, using our proprietary tech suite to power bookings, operationalize in-field management, and activate an elevated guest experience.
In addition, guests can use our app to request upgrades and experiences like mid-stay cleans, fridge stocking, arrange private chef-catered dinners, wine tastings, in-home spa treatments, transportation, and more. A pristine home paired with our personalized guest services drives higher satisfaction, more five-star reviews, and repeat visitors.
If you’re looking for things to do on Hilton Head Island, look no further than this travel guide.
Hilton Head Island is one of the most popular destinations on the East Coast, with 2.5 million tourists visiting the best beaches, bike paths, and boutiques each year. It’s a top destination for families and couples alike—and it’s easy to see why.
The island was connected to the mainland by a bridge in 1956, making it easy to get there. The island is just 35 miles away from Savannah, Georgia, and 95 miles away from Charleston, South Carolina.
There are 12 miles of beautiful beaches that you can enjoy all year round, as well as protected wildlife preserves where you can learn about the natural environment of the island.
You’ll find dolphin tours and boat charters available at many locations around the island, and bike trails are great for exploring nature at your own pace or taking an afternoon ride with friends or family members (just be sure to bring your bikes!).
Restaurants abound throughout Hilton Head Island—from casual fare at places like Red Lobster or Olive Garden to more upscale options like Ruth’s Chris Steak House or Bonefish Grill—so you’ll never have trouble finding something delicious no matter what kind of meal you’re craving!
Hilton Head Island
Readers of Travel+Leisure Magazine selected Hilton Head Island as the #1 Island in the Continental United States and the #1 Island in the United States for multiple years. It ranked as the #2 Best Islands in the World in 2017. Hilton Head Island was chosen as the best island in the United States by Conde Nast Traveler readers.
1. Shelter Cove Towne Centre
Shelter Cove Towne Centre
Shelter Cove Towne Centre is an oceanfront shopping and dining area built around a marina. The waterfront walking village has 290,000 square feet of shopping, dining, and activities.
It’s a great place to go to get some fresh air and enjoy the views of boats and salt marshes. It’s also where you can find many resort-style stores and high-end attire.
Shelter Cove Towne Centre is also easy to get to via bike or car from Palmetto Dunes. Located mid-island, it’s the perfect spot for a day trip!
2. Daufuskie Island
The Island Packet
If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping to a secluded island, Daufuskie is your place. Located just off the coast of South Carolina, it’s accessible only by boat or ferry—so you’ll feel like you’re on your private island.
Daufuskie Island has a long history: Spanish moss oak trees, crowd-free beaches, and a rich Gullah culture all make this one of the most unique islands in the Carolinas.
It was first settled in the 1730s by English colonists who established several plantations on the island. After the Civil War, freed slaves found themselves on Daufuskie, forming the Gullah community; this allowed their culture and language to grow in an isolated place.
Today visitors can explore off-road biking trails, paddleboard or kayak waterways, ride horses at the farm, golf along the beach—or take a self-guided tour along Robert Kennedy History Trail.
Art studios and galleries abound, along with rum distilleries, breweries, and community farms that grow organic produce for the local farmers’ market.
If you’re looking for a place to get away from it all, grab a car rental and head over to Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge for a nature excursion. With no zoo and only limited access by foot or bike, this refuge has tons of wildlife and provides a great escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge came about in 1985 as part of an effort to protect the environment and wildlife of South Carolina. The refuge encompasses 4053 acres, including Pinckney Island (open for public use), Corn Island, Big Harry Island, Little Harry Island, Buzzard Island, and the surrounding waters.
There are 14 miles of hiking and biking trails through freshwater ponds, salt marshes, and maritime forests. You’ll see alligators, turtles, deer—even white ibis!
There are several ways to visit Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge: by boat, from the beach, or by kayak/canoe. You can park at Daufuskie Landing on Daufuskie Island and then take one of their tours for about $17 per person (including a boat ride).
4. Stoney-Baynard Plantation
Landmark Hunter
The Stoney-Baynard Ruins are a national historic site located on Hilton Head Island. Captain Jack Stoney built them in the 1790s, and they served as antebellum plantation houses overlooking Calibogue Sound.
Legend says that Captain Jack Stoney lost a poker game to William Baynard in 1840, and he lost the property to Baynard. Baynard’s family occupied it until Union forces invaded Hilton Head in 1861, and the Baynards left. It became the Union headquarters before being burned down.
Paranormal activity has been reported at the ruins—apparitions of a man have been seen walking through the ruins. Some think this is William Baynard, who died after being shot during the Civil War.
The plantation house museum holds many artifacts from early settlers of the island, including furniture and household goods like plates, bowls, and glasses. You can also see some of the original documents that were signed when Stoney Baynard Plantation was established as well as an old map of Hilton Head Island.
5. Harbour Town
The Crazy Crab
Whether you’re in Hilton Head for the first time or have been coming back year after year, there are plenty of things to do at Harbour Town.
If you’ve got a car, drive up to Harbour Town Golf Links and watch golfers hit the ball around the course. It’s one of the best golf courses in South Carolina, and it hosts the RBC Heritage tournament every spring. If you don’t have a car, there are always cabs waiting outside the gates of Sea Pines Resort.
If you’re feeling adventurous, climb up to the iconic candy cane-striped lighthouse for a fantastic view of Harbour Town’s yachts and rental properties. There are also many restaurants and shops in this area if you want to grab lunch or a souvenir before heading down the hill.
Harbour Town is also home to The Liberty Oak at The Harbour Town Yacht Basin—a live music venue where local bands play every night from April through October (free entry for everyone). If you’re looking for something different, try renting out one of their boats or taking a dolphin-watching excursion—both will get you closer than ever before!
6. Harbour Town Lighthouse
Harbour Town Lighthouse
The Harbour Town Lighthouse is the only museum on Hilton Head Island that tells the story of lighthouses and the people who operated them.
Located in the Yacht Basin, this 50-year-old museum has an extensive collection of lighthouses and how they used them for navigation, as well as a 16-foot hand-built model of the Eagle, a historic 295-foot cutter.
The Lighthouse Legends Tour features a climb up to the top of the lighthouse to learn about local history at each level. You’ll also learn about lighthouse keepers who spent their lives tending to these critical structures.
The Coast Guard Exhibit features equipment used by Coast Guard members domestically and abroad.
7. Folly Field Beach Park
Folly Field Beach Park
Folly Field Beach Park is an excellent place for a day of sun, fun, and food. Located in the heart of Hilton Head, Folly Field has something for everyone: playgrounds with slides, swings, and teeter-totters; picnic tables; volleyball courts; basketball courts; picnicking areas; a pier with benches overlooking the island’s incredibly blue waters.
If you’re looking for some exercise beyond swimming or playing on the beach there are also walking paths around the perimeter of this lovely park that lead through wooded areas where you may find deer grazing or birds nesting in trees.
8. Coligny Beach Park
Coligny Beach Park
Coligny Beach Park is the most popular beach in Hilton Head. It’s a vast, sandy shoreline with plenty of room for you and your family to spread out, and it offers amenities like restrooms and showers, changing rooms, benches, and gazebos. You’ll also find coffee shops, ice cream shops, seafood restaurants—and even rentals of umbrellas and beach chairs!
The best part? Free beach access is available 24 hours a day during the summer months (March through October). Lifeguards work between 6 am-9 pm from March to October, and 6 am to 6 pm from November through February.
There’s always something to do at Coligny Beach Park. Events have included sunrise yoga, a winter polar plunge, Sunday church services, and a bicycle obstacle course.
9. Coligny Plaza
Coligny Plaza
Coligny Plaza is the perfect place for a day of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The plaza boasts 60 stores, including clothing, jewelry, gifts, bicycles and rentals, toy stores, and a pharmacy. Dozens of restaurants include bakeries, sandwich shops, cafes, bars and grills, and ice cream shops.
There are also special events throughout the year, such as the annual Jazz Festival in May and the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in November.
Coligny Theatre or The Island Theater is an “art house” mostly showing films by independent producers. It is located on the second floor of Coligny Plaza.
10. Lowcountry Celebration Park
Carolina Parks and Play
Lowcountry Celebration Park has a lot to offer! Here are some of our favorite things to do.
Adventure Playground, named after Captain William Hilton’s ship, is the perfect place for your kids to let loose and run around. They’ll feel like they’re on a pirate ship with all this playground equipment!
If you want to spend some time in the sun, take a stroll through the Open Pavilion and relax on the lawn. The lighted perimeter walk will keep you safe as you enjoy this beautiful setting.
The Setting Sun Sculpture is one of Lowcountry Celebration Park’s most popular features—you can’t miss it! If you love art, you’ll love this piece.
Fitness stations are provided so that you can stay active while enjoying your time here in Hilton Head. Just bring your mat or towel if you want to take advantage of them!
If you need a break from all that activity, take some time out at The Sandbox Children’s Museum. They have tons of fun things to do and exhibits to learn from for kids of all ages.
11. Driessen Beach
Driessen Beach
If you’re looking for a change of pace from Coligny Beach Park, Driessen is for you. It’s tucked away in a wooded area, which means it’s less crowded than other beaches in the area.
Amenities include restrooms and outdoor showers, plus a picnic pavilion and playgrounds. Grills are available on-site, and bike racks are available nearby. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months.
The resort along Driessen Beach offers food options if you want to go off-site while visiting the beach, but there are also many restaurants nearby that offer food delivery services if you want to spend more time at the beach!
Driessen Beach is just as easy to access as Coligny Beach Park—just follow the long wooden boardwalk from your parking area down to the shoreline.
12. Islanders Beach Park
Islanders Beach Park
Islanders Beach Park is the perfect place for you to relax, unwind and make memories with your family and friends.
The park offers sweeping views of the water. The boardwalk through the dunes will lead you down to the beach matting that will help you navigate the sand safely. There’s also a playground where kids can burn off some energy before settling in for a picnic at one of our pavilions.
The park features amenities including restrooms and outdoor showers, a water fountain, and more.
13. Coastal Discovery Museum
Coastal Discovery Museum’s Facebook
Coastal Discovery Museum is a place to learn about the local area, interact with animals, and explore nature.
This 68-acre property features live oaks, a butterfly habitat, and trails. Some gardens host native plants used by early settlers for food and medicine. Guided kayak tours, jet ski rentals, and bottlenose dolphin cruises are offered at the museum’s marina.
The Museum barn houses rare Marsh Tacky horses. Honey Horn Slave Project archaeologists discovered slave cabins and artifacts here. The project is still ongoing, so discoveries are expected!
Coastal Discovery Museum is just 4 miles south of Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. A $5 suggested donation allows you access to this educational experience.
14. Sea Pines Forest Preserve
Living the Dream
Sea Pines Forest Preserve is a 600-acre protected land for alligators, snakes, deer, and more than 200 species of birds.
A guided boat tour or wagon is available at no cost. Fishing charters or horseback rides are also available for a nominal fee.
The Warner W Plahs Wildflower Field is a popular attraction during the spring and summer months when the flowers are in bloom.
The Fish Island or Vanishing Swamp is another popular attraction that allows visitors to explore an area where the water level is low enough to see many historic artifacts from Native Americans who lived there thousands of years ago.
The Sea Pines Shell Ring is an archaeological site dating back four thousand years that was used as a gathering place for early Native Americans. It was made up of clams and muscles as well as oysters.
Outside guests are charged a daily $9 visiting fee (cash only) to enter the gated enclave at Sea Pines Resort.
15. Bluffton
Visit Bluffton
Kayaking, biking, hiking, and fishing along the May River are all great ways to explore the area. If you’re looking for something a little more guided and educational, consider taking a tour through Old Town National Register Historic District with 80 historic structures.
Bluffton also has 120 cultural attractions and hosts three dozen festivals and events throughout the year.
Palmetto Axes ax throwing is a great place to get your adrenaline pumping while learning how to throw some axes! They will also teach you how to create your personalized wood handle.
Tanger Factory Outlet is a great place to find discounted designer clothes without having to leave town. You’ll find brands like Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Coach, and more here!
If you’re looking for art galleries, then look no further than the Art Gallery of Local Artisans, which has been showcasing local artists since the late 1980s. The gallery specializes in pottery, sculpture, and painting from various local artists from all over South Carolina.
The May River Golf Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus overlooking the river, has eco-friendly turf and white-sand bunkers – what more could you ask for?
The entire city is surrounded by water and greenery. The waterfront in Bluffton Beach is one of South Carolina’s most popular attractions for swimming and sunbathing—especially since there are so many public access points!
16. The Sandbox: An Interactive Children’s Museum
The Sandbox
The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a hands-on, interactive museum for early childhood up to age 12. Kids explore creativity through themed activities and exhibits. They offer free play and exploration in a museum environment with staff-guided programming, activities, and crafts.
In addition to their main museum, we have two additional locations: The Shrimp Boat Playground, located at DuBois Park in downtown Bluffton; and the Maker Space, located on Bluffton Parkway.
Exhibits are designed to engage children in a variety of ways—through creative play or hands-on explorations. They offer 11 different hands-on experiences for your little ones:
Kinetic sand table
Pirate ship
Two dress-up stations
Derby racetrack
Airplane flying experience
Café with a kitchen
Wind tunnel
Two arts and crafts spaces
Reading nook
Supermarket checkout line
Self-guided discovery stations allow them to explore their senses. They also offer special events like art workshops or story time with a local author.
Their goal is to provide an opportunity for children to engage with their world through an exciting atmosphere where they can explore new ideas while having fun!
17. Palmetto Dunes
Palmetto Dunes
Palmetto Dunes has a little something for everyone. For the golfers in your group, Palmetto Dunes is home to three championship golf courses. Travel and Leisure Family magazine named it the #1 family resort in the US, so you can be sure your game will be in good hands.
If you’re looking to relax on the beach, Palmetto Dunes offers 3 miles of beach access and vacation rental homes. You can also rent surfboards, umbrellas, and chairs if you want to feel like you’re really on vacation.
If you want to get out of town for a bit, there are 200 miles of bike trails, beaches, and local shops nearby to explore. If you’d rather just stick around the resort itself, there are plenty of things going on there too: an outdoor pool, beach pavilions, tennis courts, and day spa—not to mention all three golf courses!
18. Mitchelville Beach
Mitchelville Beach
Mitchelville Beach is a lesser-known beach on Hilton Head Island, but it’s a great spot for shelling and exploring.
The beach is located near the Hilton Head Island Airport, so it’s a bit secluded and rugged compared to Coligny and Folly Field. There are fewer crowds here, so if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience with fewer people around, this is the place for you!
Mitchelville Beach has restrooms and outdoor showers, as well as picnic tables where you can sit down with your friends or family and enjoy some fresh seafood.
The best part of Mitchelville Beach is that it’s better for shell collecting than swimming. The sand is coarser than what you’d find at other beaches on Hilton Head Island, which means fewer shells are being washed away by the tide. You’ll also find more salt marshes and wetlands here than other beaches on the island—and they’re beautiful in their own right.
If you visit during low tide when salt marshes and beach tide pools are visible, this is one of our favorite spots on Hilton Head Island!
19. Mitchelville Freedom Park
Mitchelville Freedom Park
Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park is the first self-governed community of former slaves in South Carolina. It was founded in 1862 when escaped slaves built a town for themselves on Hilton Head Island.
The town had roads, homes, churches, stores, and schools. The enslaved people elected officials who mandated that children between 6 and 15 receive an education—the first town in South Carolina to implement compulsory education laws.
Today Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park preserves the history and traditions of these ancestors through exhibits like replicas of Praise Houses and Homestead Houses, as well as a tool shed.
Celebrate Juneteenth and the Holiday Lights Show each year at the park. The Amenities include restrooms, free parking, walking trails, a picnic pavilion, and beach access.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a place to have some family fun, or are traveling alone and want to meet new people, HHI is the perfect destination. In addition to being an island getaway that welcomes tourists all year round, this area is also home to several attractions that will allow visitors and locals alike to enjoy themselves no matter what season they visit.
When it comes to activities while visiting Hilton Head Island, there’s no shortage of things that can be done! From walking along the beach in search of seashells and other treasures at low tide or going fishing off one of the piers on Folly Field Beach (which boasts some great views).
There are plenty of opportunities for people who enjoy sports such as swimming and surfing—plus all manner of water sports, including sailing lessons! In addition, there are many golf courses around town if golfing is your thing. Otherwise, there are also tennis courts available so both indoor/outdoor fun can be had by all!
If you’re traveling to the Oregon Coast to take advantage of the abundant and delicious clams, you’re in luck! The Northwest Zone of Oregon, which is where all of Starfish Vacation Rentals beautiful homes are, features some of the best opportunities for clamming in the state. Peak Oregon clam season in this region tends to be in May and June, though there are some great opportunities to grab these mollusks all year-round. Get the scoop on where to go clamming on the Oregon Coast, as well as how you can find the best rental homes in the region!
Take Advantage of the Peak Oregon Clam Season
First thing’s first: where to go clamming in Oregon? There are around 360 miles of coastline in Oregon. How do you find the best area to go clamming? If you’re staying in Cannon Beach, Arch Cape, Manzanita, or Rockaway Beach, you’re in luck! These towns are some of the best areas to get the delicious and sought-after razor clams. Rockaway Beach is one of our favorite spots to search for clams. In fact, if you book your home in one of our Rockaway Beach rentals, you’ll be able to clam right outside of your back door!
When is the Peak Season for Clamming
Many locals consider peak Oregon clam season to be May and June. May on the Oregon Coast offers plenty of great opportunities for both crabbing and clamming. Consider spending one day combing the beaches for clams and the next visiting Tillamook Bay, Netarts Bay, or Nehalem Bay for peak Oregon Coast crabbing. In June, bay clams is the most abundant species found along the beaches. Visitors can also enjoy the last razor clams of the season. The razor clam season in Oregon closes from July 15 to September 30 north of Tillamook Head. The limit for razor clams is the first 15 dug, meaning that diggers cannot sort or release the clams. These clams may be taken by hand, shovel, clam gun, or tube that meets the specifications of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Other species of clams available in the Northwest Zone include bay clams (which has a daily limit of 20) and purple varnish clams (which has a daily limit of 72). Any other species that you may come across are considered “other clams,” which have a daily limit of 36 in aggregate.
Source: Oregon’s Adventure Coast
Stay with AvantStay
Before you get your buckets, salt, and shovels, you need to book a gorgeous property from AvantStay. We have the best selection of homes on the Oregon Coast, perfect for families, girlfriends’ getaways, or work retreats. Whether you’re planning on booking your home early in the Oregon Coast clam season or you’d prefer to take advantage of those delicious bay clams, you can’t go wrong with our homes. When it’s time to cook those clams, take advantage of our amazing gourmet kitchens. You’ll be able to easily whip up a delicious feast for your family or traveling companions. If you’d prefer to let someone else do the work (after all, you’ve been finding clams all day!), utilize our guest services. We’ll arrange for our caterer to create a world-class feast in your own rental home. You won’t have to lift a finger to enjoy a delicious dinner!
Browse our full list of properties and book today. We look forward to having you.
There’s no shortage of great ski resorts in Colorado. But if you and your friends are looking for a mountain escape where the vibe is easy-going and the nightlife is just as plentiful as the outdoor activities, look no further than Breckenridge. Tucked away in the snow-capped Rocky Mountains, just 80 miles outside Denver, Breckinridge charms locals and tourists alike. Here is our list of the best 40 things to do in Breckenridge for the whole family.
This idyllic town holds a rustic appeal you won’t find in most ritzy destinations thanks to its storied history as a gold rush mining town. Since its modest beginnings, Breckenridge has emerged as both a world-class ski town and a four-season getaway for those whose interests gravitate toward an active lifestyle.
Aside from outdoorsy offerings, an active art scene bolsters Breckinridge’s bohemian appeal. Take a break from the slopes by moseying through the downtown art district and taking in all the public art, open studios, and galleries this seemingly sleepy little town has to offer.
Once the sun sets, trade your snowshoes for dancing shoes and hit the clubs. Between the town’s elegant lounges and unpretentious dives, there are plenty of opportunities to help you and your friends enjoy some cocktails.
How to get around Breckenridge
1. For a dramatic, “avoid-the-highway” approach to the town, those with motorcycles or Jeeps may choose Hoosier Pass to get to Breckenridge. The pass runs through the Mosquito Range of the Rockies at about 11,000 feet, with mesmerizing views above the tree line.
2. Take a stroll past colorful Victorian homes built between the 1880s and 1890s along the six blocks that comprise Main Street. A $10 walking tour with a guide is available, but not necessary, to see the shops and boutiques, restaurants, bars, galleries and more within the Breckenridge National Historic District. This district is the largest historic district in the state of Colorado.
3. Boreas Passis a stunning drive just south of Breckenridge, leading to the tiny town of Como. It climbs to 11,000 feet and down in one 22-mile stretch of paved dirt road.
4. Self-guided walking tours of the many public art installations around town provide art lovers with a cross-section of modern metal sculptures, statues of people and wildlife, installations that move with the wind, large-scale murals, and more. Get a map from the Breckenridge Welcome Center, or download a tour onto your mobile device.
Outdoor adventures to pump your adrenaline
5. Get hooked on ziplining! Unsurprisingly, there are more than half a dozen operators in the area. Top of the Rockies, a company located just north of Copper Mountain, has lines starting at 1,000 feet. Their two-hour adventures cost about $150 and run three times a day. Certain bodyweight restrictions apply.
6. Catch a thrill by spending a day dog sledding through spectacular spruce forests behind a pack of Siberian Huskies who love to run in both the summer and winter months. Good Times Adventures can set you up with this unique activity for about $140.
7. More than a dozen operators in and around Breckenridge offer White water rafting. Breckenridge Whitewater is a good choice for its friendly pricing and wide range of trips – from easy to downright scary. On the Blue River, the water flow depends on release from the Dillon Reservoir above it, so check ahead for accurate trip information.
8. Hiking is Breckenridge’s middle name. Depending on your fitness level and experience, you can take it relatively easy on trails near Spruce Creek, the Blue Lakes, and Aspen Alley, or you can challenge yourself on a five-hour hike to reach Conundrum Hot Springs. Once you arrive, you can soak in a hot, geothermal spring that’s free and revives sore muscles and feet.
9. Contact Breckenridge Snowmobiling to learn about guided tours of various ability levels, rent a machine and go solo, unguided, on trails as far afield as Silverthorne, Frisco, or Dillon. It’s a rush and worth every penny.
10. Consider a half-day trip to Preston, Colorado, just east of Breckenridge. Participate in a guided tour of a ghost town that was home to 150 residents from the 1880s to 1930. It’s a moderate three-mile hike where you’ll see Preston’s former school, shops, and post office, plus a few decaying log homes and iron mines. The cost is $30 in the summer and fall.
11. If you have energy left after a day on the slopes, you can amuse yourself in the evening with a 90-minute haunted-happenings walking tour through town. You’ll be thrilled to hear stories about kidnappings, disappearances, and other eerie stuff, many occurring between 1961 and today. Tickets cost $22 for adults.
12. One way to mix things up a bit during a multi-day stay is to head to the town’s state-of-the-art indoor ice arena for an hour or two of ice skating or ice hockey. Rates include equipment rentals.
13. Even more indoor fun can be found at the 88,000-square-foot Breckenridge Recreation Center on Airport Road. Amenities include a rock climbing wall, track, gym, weight room, cardio deck, cycling studio, indoor playground, pool and sauna, aerobics room, and alfresco hot tubs. It is open on weekdays from 5:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. A pass is $75 and is good for six visits.
Arts & culture in Breckenridge
14. Bicycling can be strenuous in this mountain town with its miles of uphill terrain, but Breckers embrace the exercise, and you should, too. Find countless shops for mountain or road bicycle rentals and equipment and paved rides 20-30 miles galore. Many places even offer bike valets to keep your two-wheeler safe, and there’s a drive-in movie night for folks on bikes.
15. The Arts District is a downtown campus of a dozen or so renovated structures that now serve as residences, artists’ studios, performance venues, and workshop spaces. Take a class in one of the numerous art mediums from watercolor and oils to Plein air, glasswork, and more. The district is a lively spot with occasional open studios and several adjacent places to dine and drink.
Relaxing activities for all
16. Contact Breckenridge Outfitters for fly fishing tours and land yourself a freshwater trout in one of the region’s numerous lakes and rivers. Two-hour, half-day, and full-day sessions are available, as well as river float tours. Prices range from $100-$500 with all the necessary equipment included in the fees.
17. Ambika Herbals on North Park Avenue is a calming spa with an all-female staff. It offers Reiki, Ayurvedic, and other types of massages and facials, all using natural and organic products created from locally grown hemp, herbs, and wildflowers. Treatments start at around $75. You’ll want to go home with one of their signature products – from luxurious facial serums and salves to body washes and scrubs.
18. Take your loved ones on a nostalgic sleigh ride, where a team of picturesque Belgian draft horses pulls you through the snow. It’s a brisk but beautiful, 35 to 45-minute adventure and many rides have themes around food, romance, or the old mining life.
Family-friendly activities
19. Highline Railroad Park is a huge hit with kids. This park explains how rail access, beginning in 1882, helped Breckenridge grow and flourish by bringing in goods and attracting settlers.
20. Edwin Carter House is a museum located in the home of a former New Yorker. Carter moved west for mining and became concerned about the effect the region’s growth was having on its flora and fauna. To expose the threat of extinction, he created a display of taxidermy (stuffed animal heads) that kids go wild over! There’s no admission fee for this museum, but be sure to check the website for entry dates and times.
21. Isak Heartstone is the town’s unofficial mascot. He’s a 15-foot smiling troll made entirely of recycled wood scraps by a Danish artist. Hearthstone was recently relocated to Illinois Gulch with a trail leading to his woodsy hideaway.
22. Stop in for a peek inside the Sawmill Museum which memorializes the sawmill used to make lumber out of the area’s countless trees. The lumber was used for building schools, churches, fraternal halls, and hotels. The exhibit is open to all and has no admission fee.
23. Pan for gold with Washington and Lomax Gulch Gold Mine Tours. Since Breckenridge was born from gold mining, it pays for visitors to learn how it’s done, and what the hard-scrabble life of a miner was like. Kids and adults pay $15 and can pan for gold themselves in a shallow stream – and keep whatever they might find.
24. Colorado is renowned for its dizzying variety of wildflowers, and you can spot many of them along the Burro Trail in the White River National Forest. The trail follows the course of a burbling stream and is considered intermediate. You can identify seasonal blooms around here based on their colors.
25. With all this beauty surrounding you, you may want to get closer to nature by camping, especially in the warmer months. It’s easy to find accommodations such as tent and RV sites, well-priced rental cabins in the woods, and more.
26. Visit the Barney Ford House to learn about one of the founders of Colorado. Barney was born into slavery but escaped, took the last name of Ford, and embarked on a successful career as an entrepreneur. He traveled widely but landed in Breckenridge, where he and his wife Julia built a grand home and remained active in civic affairs for his entire life. This free tour is best for those with an interest in civil rights or history.
27. The Alice Milne House is another well-preserved, in-town dwelling that illustrates the old practice of insulating one’s home from the area’s bitter cold. People used various types of available cloth and paper as wall coverings on the interior, pasted over the split logs these cabins were built from.
28. Three blocks from Main Street is Carter Park and Pavilion, bringing the town’s excellent array of summer activities full circle. The pavilion is great for groups and large families, complete with covered picnic tables and a gas fireplace. Beyond the park are softball fields, tennis and pickleball courts, a sledding hill, and a dog park.
Bars & nightlife
29. Breckenridge Distillery Tasting Room is open daily from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., so that you can taste their 13 locally made varieties of whiskey, plus spiced rum, gin, and aquavit. It’s the ideal Happy Hour destination!
30. The world’s highest-elevation winery is called Continental Divide. The in-town tasting room is open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Twenty-dollar tastings include four tastes in four categories of wine, and of course, if you like them, you can purchase a few to-go bottles on-site. Try CA Sparkling Rosé, Gold Rush Red, Blanc de Blanc, Storm Blend, and the Reserve Hillside Cabernet Sauvignon, all priced between $24-$70.
31. Sipping Victorian Tea at The William Briggle House is an excellent rainy day activity. It’s a great opportunity to learn about how the town’s most affluent women from the early 1900s lived. The actual Mrs. Briggles hosts the tour three days a week.
Cultural events in Breckenridge
32. What is Ullr? First and foremost, it’s the Norse god of winter. Secondly, it is a 10-day festival in early December that kicks off Breckenridge’s official snow season. For almost 60 years, this annual event has drawn locals and tourists alike in anticipation of a robust ski season, with parades, ice plunges, bonfires, and crowning of the King and Queen.
33. Breckenridge is chock full of summer activities. The July to September season kicks off with a huge town-wide party on the lawn of the Riverwalk Center, a 770-seat performance venue on the banks of the Blue River. It features food, music, merchants, beverages, and fun for the whole family.
Best Breckenridge ski spots
34. Breckenridge Ski Resort is the grand-daddy of them all, with five peaks over 3,000 acres and 187 trails for every skier level. It’s the most visited ski center in the western hemisphere, and has the highest chairlift in North America. You can visit it repeatedly without duplicating a single experience. There’s even an award-winning terrain park for freestyling or snowboarding.
35. Breckenridge Ski Resort has the same owners as resorts in the mountain towns of Vail, Beaver Creek, Park City, Keystone, and Crested Butte. Its EpicPass (sold online) offers a 20% discount on all rentals, lodging, instruction, activities, food, and drink for those who frequent the Rockies and are likely to visit all six resorts.
36. Breckenridge Nordic Center is the place for world-class cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with beautifully groomed trails for all fitness levels. Admission is $25 a day for adults, and you can enjoy a lunch of chowder and grilled Bratwurst in the Center’s rustic tavern. Later in the day, you might want to indulge in the Tavern’s signature cocktail, “Fire in the Mountain.”
Best Breckenridge dining options
37. Breckenridge Ski Resort has après ski covered as well. With 15 restaurants perched right on Peaks 7, 8, and 9, the BreckConnect gondola is there to whisk you from town to either of those three peaks in minutes.
39. Hand-crafted cocktails and artisanal wines are just a few delectable items at Blue River Bistro. Start with the Bang’s Island mussels in a coconut-lime-infused broth, and continue with a Shellfish Cioppino of sea scallop, shrimp, more Bang’s island mussels, fresh fish, and Israeli couscous in a spicy tomato broth.
40. Happy Hour at Aurum is a Brecker’s favorite, where restaurant go-ers dine inside of a heated yurt. Wear your winter’s best for this unique dinner experience and be ready for a special chef’s multi-course menu, including an amuse bouche and mignardise.
If you’re looking for a snowy destination with a rich history, one-of-a-kind dining experiences, breathtaking mountain-top views, and fun for the whole family, Breckinridge is the place for you. Enjoy beginner and advanced snow activities, guided tours, and more in this quaint yet exciting Colorado town. Book one of AvantStay’s Breckenridge properties to experience everything this idyllic town has to offer.
Your bridal journey is not a piece of cake, it isn’t just saying “I Do” but it will need lots of lots planning. And we mean LOTS. We can help you plan the ultimate bachelorette party too! Read why hosting your event with AvantStay is worth the penny!
Bachelorette Party vs. Bridal Shower
Alright party planners, let’s break down first the wild world of bridal celebrations! If you’re gearing up for a bachelorette party, it’s crucial to know the difference between a bridal shower—because these are two totally different vibes!
Bachelorette Party
Purpose: The bride-to-be is ready to cut loose and enjoy her last fling before the ring! A bachelorette party is all about celebrating her fabulous single status with lots of giggles and maybe some naughty shenanigans!
Attendees: This is a VIP event, so it’s typically just the bride’s closest gal pals! Think fun-loving friends who are ready to party it up, with no family members in sight (unless they’re super cool!).
Activities: From wild nights out dancing until dawn to a relaxing spa day—there’s so much you can do! Scavenger hunts, cocktail making, or just lounging by the pool with colorful drinks in hand, the sky’s the limit!
Tone: The vibe? Playful, hilarious, and a little cheeky! Get ready for inside jokes, wild stories, and maybe a few embarrassing moments that you’ll laugh about for years to come.
Bridal Shower
Purpose: Now, switch gears to a bridal shower! This day is all about showering the bride with love, gifts, and wonderful advice as she prepares for her happily ever after.
Attendees: This event has a broader guest list! We’re talking family, friends, and maybe even that neighbor who always brings over cookies (she better have a plate of cookies, just saying!).
Activities: Think of games like “Guess the Wedding Cake Flavor” or “How Well Do You Know the Couple?” Alongside some tasty treats, heartfelt gifts, and advice that’ll make you tear up a bit!
Tone: The atmosphere here is sweet and sentimental, but a sprinkle of laughter doesn’t hurt! It’s more about hugs and heartwarming speeches than party antics.
Whether it’s a wild night out or a heartfelt gathering, each celebration is a chance to make unforgettable memories with the bride-to-be! Join us as we count down the FIVE trendiest destinations to celebrate with your Bride’s Babes, with exciting themes to match if you haven’t planned that too yet.
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5. Austin, TX
Is it hot in here? Maybe, but that’s what makes Austin so lively. Pack your cowboy boots and get ready for a bachelorette bash like no other. With its laid-back charm and a hip, eclectic vibe, Austin is the perfect playground for a relaxed and playful celebration. From dancing the night away on 6th Street to savoring mouthwatering barbecue, Austin promises a weekend filled with good times, great tunes, and unforgettable memories for the bride-to-be and her crew.
Chances are after hours of enduring Wedding TikTok, you’ve heard of the theme, Disco Cowgirl: a fusion of boho-western fashion with a touch of that quintessential 70’s dance floor style. Saddle up your squad with cowgirl hats and fringe accessories, and encourage them to flaunt disco-worthy metallic outfits.
Giddyup girls, Ramsey’s got the cutest painted pool shed in an expansive backyard––ready for all your disco dance parties. It is your VIP pass to an intimate weekend of fun, food, and cherished memories. This contemporary home is a dreamy mix of relaxation and revelry—start your mornings sipping coffee at the breakfast bar, then lounge poolside before heading out for a wild night on Sixth Street. When you return, soothe your dancing feet in the jacuzzi, challenge the girls to a game of cornhole, and end the night cozied up around the fire pit.
Oh, and did we mention Austin’s legendary barbecue? Be prepared to eat like queens!
Western Themed
You don’t need to go over the top with this Western theme. Fine, you can grab a horseshoe cake topper, snag matching cowgirl hats for the crew, and get shot glasses with the words “giddy up,” but don’t be afraid to lean into the silly side of this theme. Check if anyone’s up for dressing with mustaches or cosplaying bounty hunters—it’s all about embracing the Old West.
For a secluded yet stylish escape, Maverick is a four-bedroom sanctuary just outside the city that can sleep 10 of your girlies. This home is Western-worthy because of its wooden-paneled exteriors and its private, woodsy location. With a private pool, hot tub, and firepit lounge, Maverick sets the stage for ultimate relaxation between all the bachelorette adventures.
The game room with foosball, shuffleboard, and a balcony is perfect for fun nights with the girls, while the sleek kitchen and spacious dining areas make for epic group dinners before a night out.
4. Palm Springs, CA
You haven’t done the desert till you’ve done Palm Springs. This sun-soaked oasis nestled in the heart of California’s desert landscape is filled with classic boutique hotels designed for stylish pool parties with unparalleled views of the San Jacinto mountains. From rejuvenating spa experiences to vibrant nightlife on Palm Canyon Drive, this destination promises a chic and laid-back atmosphere, creating the ideal backdrop for a bachelorette weekend filled with sun and style—yes, please!
One of the best parts of Palm Springs is the fact that there are multiple (yes, multiple) pink-themed hotels here. In our totally unbiased opinion, we happen to have two of the cutest—The Marley Hotel and The Wesley Hotel—just waiting for you and your crew of Barbie to post up by the pool. Book a few rooms or buy out the whole hotel. Pink stripes, palm trees, and poolside photoshoots are just a few clicks away!
Pink is kind of this hotel’s thing. Bring on all the Barbie vibes. Why settle for a house when you could have an entire hotel? The Marley Hotel is Palm Springs’ hottest property, and it’s all yours for the weekend! This full hotel buyout lets you and your crew enjoy ultimate seclusion and luxury in style. With 6 rooms that accommodate up to 22 guests, you’ll have plenty of space to spread out and relax.
The Marley is perfect for a group that wants total privacy—no strangers, just you and your crew living the dream. You can elevate your stay with massages, yoga, and even catered meals!
Retro Themed
Let’s go “bach” in time. Experience the vintage charm by encouraging your party to don flapper dresses, polka dots, or poodle skirts. Perfect your playlist with classic tunes, play nostalgic games like pinning the tail on the donkey, and indulge in retro treats and cocktails for a celebration that’s as timeless and unforgettable as your girls.
Meet the quintessential Palm Springs hotel. El Cid features pool cabanas and towering palm trees as far as the eye can see. For a laid-back yet luxurious bachelorette bash, chill by the pool, roast marshmallows around the fire pit, or sip cocktails under the cabanas.
The bungalow-style units exude a laid-back Cal-boho vibe; with 7 rooms that can accommodate up to 17 guests, you’ll have the whole place to yourselves and you’ll never have to worry about outsiders. From tacos to tasting menus, you’ll be well-fed and pampered too!
3. Fort Lauderdale, FL
White sand, turquoise waters, and all-night parties. Beach, please. Sun-soaked beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere—need we say more? A bachelorette party trip to Fort Lauderdale ensures days filled with seaside fun, from basking in the Florida sun to water activities along the Intracoastal. At night, energetic bars and clubs along Las Olas Boulevard come alive. And of course, be sure to take a day trip to Miami; it’s just a hop, skip, and jump away.
You’re next door to the club capital of the country, so obviously this theme deserves a moment. Take your “I Do” crew to a Miami pool party, drag show, or get bottle service at an exclusive club (like Club Space). Reserve your table ahead of time to make sure they’ve got space for you and all that energy you’ll be bringing.
We honestly can’t think of a better place to decompress from the club. This home is steps away from the iconic Fort Lauderdale Beach and has room for up to 10 guests. Spend your days lounging on the sand, or hanging by your own private pool in the backyard. With a variety of yard games (think cornhole and bocce ball), a fire pit, and a BBQ grill, Sea Breeze is perfect for unwinding or gathering your group for coastal fun.
Downtown Fort Lauderdale’s best dining, shopping, and entertainment options are just a short drive away too!
Y2K Themed
Hop in babes, we’re taking a trip down memory lane. Dress your squad in coordinated Juicy sweatsuits, adorn your hair with playful butterfly clips, and decorate everything (literally, everything) with vivid neon hues. Opt for Lisa Frank-esque decor to enhance the nostalgia—because if Lisa Frank decor was meant to be anywhere, it’s in Southern Florida.
Everything you could want for a laid-back yet luxurious bash is in Beach Haven. Just steps from the golden sands of the beach, wake up to the sound of the waves crashing and head straight to the shore. This stay comes with a private pool, hot tub, and a layout designed for groups.
With Hollywood and Miami just an hour away, the location is just perfect for a luxurious place to unwind with your besties while soaking in stunning beach views. Gather around the BBQ grill for a fun evening cookout, or sip cocktails on the sun-drenched patio as the day turns to night.
2. Scottsdale, AZ
Scottsdale is any trendy crew’s go-to spot for bridal-themed pool parties, rejuvenating spas, and a surprisingly vibrant arts scene. This destination sets the stage for laid-back celebrations under the AZ sun—think leisurely days by the pool, exploring trendy neighborhoods and embracing the city’s easygoing atmosphere. Pair that with an expansive vacation rental with a private pool, and you’re ready for your best bash yet.
As we said, Scottsdale is full of vibrancy and color. Match this town’s vibes by decking out your girlies in vibrant sombreros, matching tees, and festive accessories. From sipping margaritas by the pool to indulging in delicious tacos, a Final Fiesta-themed bachelorette ensures a tequila-filled weekend as you bid farewell to single life with a touch of spice and loads of fun.
It doesn’t get much more vibrant than this Southwestern stay! La Casona is your dream destination for fiesta-themed, Spanish-inspired architecture, featuring a private pool and patio for al fresco dining. This hidden hacienda is a colorful, vibrant home best not just for relaxation but for a celebration of the bride-to-be.
With Camelback Mountain views as your backdrop, as the sun sets over the Arizona desert, gather around the fire pit for an unforgettable evening of s’mores, toasts, and laughter.
Desert Oasis Themed
The desert isn’t all prickly pears and cacti—it’s got a plethora of spas and massages just calling your name, especially in Scottsdale. Celebrate the bride’s last single days with a Desert Oasis-themed party, where the crew takes turns getting massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures at one of this town’s many-day spas. Our favorite: Away Spa.
Poolside fun, BBQs, and a cozy fire pit for sunset toasts––mmm, now that’s zen. Element is the perfect house for your girlies’ fun under the Arizona sun. A private oasis in the backyard where you can take a refreshing dip in the pool, soak up the sun on the loungers, or dine al fresco near the water is the best thing to do in your bash.
Just 20 minutes from Downtown Phoenix, it is perfectly positioned to enjoy all of Scottsdale’s world-class attractions for a long night ahead.
1. Nashville, TN
We may have saved the best bachelorette destination for last—but can you blame us? You were probably wondering what took us so long to get here, but alas. Enter, Nashville: the Honky Tonk capital of the world, with bustling bars on Broadway, numerous clubs from your favorite country singers, pedal bikes galore, and booze crews ready for you and yours.
Giddyup! It’s your Bride’s Last Ride and you’ve gotta do it big in the big city. Set up for this theme with matching cowboy boots, daisy dukes, white tank tops, and customized cowboy hats (we love these LED ones here). Book a booze cruise and let your tour guide handle the rest!
Book a few rooms or buy out the whole space. This Midtown hotel is decked with trendy rooms with plenty of space to get ready and even have some in-suite photoshoots. The 121 Hotel is Nashville’s swankiest and most flexible venue for your bride’s bash. With 16 bedrooms, including the Penthouse Suite that sleeps 58 guests-yes, 58 people, need no more to spread out! There is also a banquet room that offers space for up to 32 guests perfect for a bash party venue, so you can host a glamorous dinner before hitting the nightlife scene.
Expect tons of BBQ, live music, and, of course, dancing! And if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a Pedal Tavern ride by, full of people having an absolute blast (maybe you’ll even join them!).
Dolly Parton Themed
“Let’s go girls” takes on a whole new meaning with this theme. Just 200 miles from Dollywood, Nashville is the proper place to center your bachelorette party around the queen of country. Dress up as a different Dolly from each one of her albums and videos, and get ready to sing at the top of your lungs all night long.
We couldn’t not call out our Dolly home here… you know? This stay has room for 12 and is right next to historic Germantown. Located just in the Buena Vista neighborhood, it puts your gals to Nashville’s best dining, shopping, and nightlife experience for your bride’s bash program. A night out with your best girls is something you will not want to miss as the famous Broadway street, lined with multi-level bars and live music, is just a stone’s throw away. Whether you’re dancing at the honky-tonks, sipping cocktails on a rooftop, or catching a show at the Ryman Auditorium, you’ll find yourself immersed in Nashville’s electric vibe.
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Popular Bachelorette Party Games and Icebreakers
Get ready to crank up the fun factor with these fabulous bachelorette party games and icebreakers you may want to add to your bachelorette plans!
These games and icebreakers will surely keep the party lively and make everyone engaged and gain lifetime memories. After all, who doesn’t want to leave the bachelorette party with a smile, a few giggles, and maybe a little blush from recalling those hilarious moments?
Bachelorette Scavenger Hunt: Grab your squad and get ready for some hilarious photo ops! Create a list of fun challenges and tasks, like snapping a selfie with a stranger who has the same hairstyle as the bride or finding the funniest souvenir. Let those giggles out!
Never Have I Ever: A classic for a reason! Share your wildest secrets with your besties. “Never have I ever eaten a whole pint of ice cream on a Friday night!” (Wait, is that just me?!) Sip your drinks accordingly—this game gets juicy!
Bridal Bingo: Turn gift-giving into a game! Create bingo cards with wedding-related items like “floral arrangements” or “kitchen appliances.” Every time a guest mentions one, mark it off! First to bingo gets to shout “I do!” and maybe win a fun prize!
Themed Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth with wacky props—think feather boas, giant sunglasses, and goofy hats! We all want you to capture some shameless selfies that will make for fab memories (and possibly some blackmail later)!
Advice for the Bride: Gather everyone’s gems of wisdom! Each guest writes down a piece of advice for the bride and shares it. The result? Heartwarming moments and a good laugh, plus the bride gets a keepsake to treasure forever!
Drink If…: Create a list of funny scenarios! “Drink if you’ve ever danced on a table!” We know everyone has been through this! This is a surefire way to get everyone laughing and sharing stories.
Who Knows the Bride Best?: Let’s put your knowledge of the bride to the test! Prepare quirky questions about her favorite movies or crushes. The winner gets bragging rights—and maybe even a prize!
Truth or Dare: A classic! Keep it light and playful, but be careful—things can get wild! Dares can be hilarious (or mildly embarrassing), so be prepared for some fun surprises!
Memory Sharing: Asking guests to share their favorite or funniest memories with the bride could lead to some tearful laughter or a story so outrageous it could be a movie plot!
Would You Rather: Bachelorette Edition: Think of crazy scenarios, like “Would you rather wear neon fuchsia on your wedding day or go to a public place in a matching tutu with the groom?” It’s all in good fun and guarantees some uproarious debates and lots of giggles!
Say ‘I Do’ to Fun on Your Bash!
Grab your glitter, get your squad together, and get ready to celebrate the bride’s one last rodeo! Cheers to the bride and all the fabulous adventures that await. We’re here to keep the laughs rolling and the drinks flowing.
Check out our rental homes, destination ideas, and more tips in our blog to make your bachelorette party a hit!
At the base of the Gore Range in the Colorado Rockies and 100 miles from Denver, lies the Vail Valley, a quaint European village full of alpine-style charm. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and soak in the views of the snow-capped peaks as the world’s weight melts away. While best known as one of the top ski areas in the world, there are also endless things to do in the summer. Year-round there is no shortage of world-class outdoor adventures. Here’s a rundown of all the fun things to do on your next trip to the town of Vail, no matter what season you choose to visit.
Tour Vail Village & Lionshead Village
Vail is a mountain town like no other. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped out of Colorado and into a European village. Many of the streets within Vail Village and Lionshead Village are pedestrian-only, so you can stroll down the cobblestone streets and along Gore Creek (or use the free in-town shuttle system) to explore Vail’s shops, restaurants, sports outfitters, and entertainment options. Glide on the ice skating rinks in Vail Square (Lionshead) and Solaris (Vail Village). The two villages blend seamlessly with the ski resort as the Eagle Bahn Gondola (Lionshead Village) and Gondola One (Vail Village) quickly whisk you up Vail Mountain to start your mountain adventure.
Source: Town and Country Magazine
Experience Vail Mountain Resort
Home to one of the most famous ski resorts in North America, Vail, Colorado, has something for skiers and snowboarders of every ability level. One gets a special feeling viewing the endless mountain peaks from the top ofVail Mountain Resort and the seven legendary back bowls. In the warmer months, summer activities like exploring the network of hiking trails and mountain biking trails are great ways to enjoy the wildflower-covered alpine landscape. Epic Discovery delivers a thrill with the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster, kids’ zipline, and Gore Creek mini golf. If you’re not in a playful mood, take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Vail Mountain for dining and 360-degree views of the White River National Forest that will take your breath away.
Dive into Vail’s Culinary Scene
It makes sense that Colorado’s largest ski resort also has a wide array of restaurant selections. From coffee to cocktails, breakfast to après-ski, there’s always an option to excite your taste buds. With so many experiences to choose from, from world-renowned gourmet restaurants likeSweet Basil in Vail Village to more casual family spots likeMoe’s BBQ in Lionshead, the Vail restaurant scene has a dining option for any culinary preference and budget.
Visit Vail Breweries & Distilleries
Looking to grab a craft beer or cocktail after a long day of skiing or hiking?Vail Brewing Company, located in Solaris Plaza of Vail Village, is “veteran and ski bum owned” and delivers fantastic craft beers.10th Mountain Whiskey and Spiritson Bridge Street in Vail Village is Vail’s premier distillery and is the perfect place to try bourbon, rye, moonshine, potato vodka, or the local Alpenglow cordial.
Source: Vail Daily
Visit the Colorado Snowsports Museum & Hall of Fame
Celebrate Colorado ski heritage and get a feel for the slopes without strapping on the skis at theColorado Snowsports Museum & Hall of Fame, chronicling Colorado’s skiing history. From the 10th Mountain Division’s WWII history to the more recent Hall of Fame inductees, this collection tells a fascinating story of the birth, rise, and explosion of skiing and snowboarding in Colorado.
Relax at the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Within Vail Village is the Ford Park complex, named for President Gerald Ford, who loved to vacation in Vail with his wife, Betty, lies theBetty Ford Alpine Gardens. Located just outside of Vail Village, it is one of the highest botanical gardens in the country. Take a break from the hustle and bustle and appreciate the beauty of the high-elevation plants surrounding you and the amazing view of the Gore Range in the distance.
Source: Condé Nast Traveler
Take in a Performance at Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
TheGerald R. Ford Amphitheater in Vail is a spectacular outdoor music venue along Gore Creek that seats 1,260 guests in covered seating and an additional 1,300 on its expansive grassy hillside with a breathtaking view of the Rocky Mountains. Each summer, the amphitheater hosts a wide array of talent, from dance and classical to a weekly concert series with headlining acts.
Stay in a Luxury Vacation Home
Book a luxurious vacation rental in Vail. If skiing is your main agenda,Cloud 9 is perfectly located less than 5 minutes from Vail Ski Resort. If mountain seclusion is more your style, Bighorn is tucked away in the trees, and Condor is a cabin-style home in an idyllic, natural setting. Or, unwind in style at Highline, a breathtaking mountain home surrounded by snow-capped hills and aromatic pine trees.
Experience the Best of Vail
Ready to experience the fresh mountain air, natural beauty, and European charm that awaits in Colorado? Find your next vacation home in Vail today!
Corporate retreats and company “offsites” have never been as important as they are today in the post-COVID era of remote teams who frequently work from home. In-person corporate retreats promote better collaboration among team members, clearer communication, sharper brainstorming, and faster problem-solving, while also reinforcing company culture and positive morale. They also allow co-workers and executives to create personal connections, which is ultimately better for your business.
But company offsites and retreat activities these days don’t have to be—nor should they be—the awkward, overly programmed, Vegas hotel conference room style events that many people envision when they think about traditional corporate events.
Today’s offsites and retreats—especially for start-ups and companies with Millennial, Gen Y, and Z employees—need to combine creative brainstorming and focused goals along with meaningful leisure and shared experiences in unique locations in order to make them worth the time and expense. Plus, all of these elements help team members to return to work reinvigorated.
For corporate executives and HR professionals doing the retreat planning, this means defining your objectives upfront, blending free-flowing games and activities with purposeful meetings and strategy sessions, and most importantly ensuring adequate free time for team bonding and relationship building.
It also means that in addition to where you’re going, it’s essential to think about how you’re staying. While mega hotels with sprawling meeting rooms can still be efficient and economical, private vacation rentals that offer more personalized accommodations, like open living and gathering spaces, full kitchens and bathrooms, and interconnected outdoor areas, can create a much more conducive retreat environment for a creative mix of corporate work and experiential play.
So, if you’re responsible for the planning process and looking for creative corporate retreat ideas for your next company getaway, here are 12 that will be sure to create a one-of-a-kind experience at any time of year that your employees will never forget—and will improve the performance of your entire team in the long term.
1. Take to the Water
Getting out on the water is soulfully exhilarating, mentally challenging, and physically stimulating. And doing certain activities on the water requires teams to work and perform tasks together, so it’s an ideal way to reinforce the relationships and responsibilities that team members need to be comfortable with in their everyday work.
Guided aquatic activities like a sailing charter, canoeing, kayaking, or standup paddle boarding with a professional tour company will also give you and your co-workers the opportunity to get out on the water and work together. That means great views, the wind freely blowing through your hair, experiencing unique ecosystems and wildlife, and unobstructed sunsets which will put your teams at ease and in a relaxed state of mind in addition to promoting camaraderie and a healthy company culture.
2. Play An Easy Team Sport
Team sports that are fun and easy to play, but also focus everyone on a shared goal—literally and metaphorically—are ideal to incorporate into your next company retreat or offsite.
Team sports encourage in-person physical activity, form stronger interpersonal relationships, and are also a great icebreaker for new employees or executives to get to know one another.
Pickleball, volleyball, kickball, capture the flag, scavenger hunts, and ultimate frisbee are all great corporate retreat team sports, particularly for large groups, since they’re low impact, don’t require a lot of expensive equipment or complicated facilities, and simple to pick up if someone hasn’t played them before. Plus, they’re fun—especially when you win!
3. Get Some Fresh Air
No matter where or when you’re planning your next retreat, sometimes nothing is easier or more rewarding for employees than the simple act of getting outside. Hiking, biking, spending time by the pool, relaxing by a fire pit, or having an al fresco dinner around an outdoor dining table can do miracles for team morale and emotional health. It can also promote better, more free-flowing communication between team members.
If your team is on the more adventurous side, activities like zip lining, rock climbing, or the challenge of a ropes course can also be great to add to your itinerary.
4. Plan a Late-Night Game Night
On the back of a long day of brainstorming about company strategy and participating in organized team-building activities, game night can be an amazing way to end the night. After a happy hour or dinner, gather around a large table for a little late-night competition and laughs. Some classic favorites include casino night, trivia, charades, and bingo.
If you have a larger group of people, breaking up into smaller teams for board games like Pictionary or Monopoly is also a great way to combine a little brain-stimulating fun and healthy competition with team building and creative collaboration.
5. Sing Together
Few things are able to unite an entire team better and faster than being in a situation that makes people feel vulnerable. So, unless co-workers have the voice of Mick Jagger or Taylor Swift nothing is more certain to produce heartier laughs and fun memories at a company retreat than an evening of open mic karaoke.
If you’re hosting your offsite at a vacation rental, karaoke is also an ideal activity to get everyone together in a private, central location without needing to rent separate meeting rooms or another venue altogether.
6. Explore a New Place
Discovering a new place or learning something new together stimulates curiosity and communication in addition to promoting interpersonal bonding and creativity. It’s also a simple and inexpensive way for co-workers and team members to discover their own common interests, especially if your company retreat is hosted in a town or new city that’s not where your business is based.
The act of “going local” together can be free-form and spontaneous, like taking a neighborhood tour of local artists’ murals and installation art. Or it can be more planned and structured, like doing a farm-to-table restaurant crawl.
Either way, getting familiar with a new town is one of the best—and simplest—in-person team bonding activities to schedule for your next retreat. Some companies even offer dedicated on-the-ground concierge services and specialize in booking local outings, which can help from the planning point of view.
7. Allow For Zen Moments
Work can be stressful—no matter how well your team problem-solves together. Add in the realities of raising a family and commuting to and from work (for those who still don’t work remotely), and it’s likely your employees haven’t had a minute to really “have a moment of zen” for months.
So, if you’re responsible for retreat planning, schedule time for wellness on your next offsite to allow team members to slow down and decompress with one another. Morning yoga, an afternoon meditation, or a bonfire and stargazing night are all great options that are sure to get everyone in a better zen-like frame of mind to be their best back at work.
8. Turn Up The Heat
In a cooking class, that is. Countless Hollywood romance movies have inspired and reminded us about the power of food and how it can bring people together. In this case what applies to love also works in business.
Breaking bread (and making it) with co-workers in a test kitchen or taking a cooking class with a professional chef is a great way to break down boundaries, learn to work better as a team, promote unexpected creativity, and most importantly, make sure everyone is well fed.
An all-hands-on-deck potluck or dinner party for your team at a vacation rental in a culinary destination like Napa Valley with a chef’s kitchen can also accomplish the same objectives without the formality and expense of a professional cooking class.
9. Give Back
Being able to help your co-workers or staff when they need it—whether that’s in the pursuit of a company objective, closing a sale, or solving a problem—is one of the most important parts of being a successful team member.
So, as part of your next company retreat or offsite, set aside some time for team members to volunteer together. If your company is in the real estate business, volunteer for Habitat for Humanity for a day. If you own a restaurant, have your team help plant vegetables at a local farmer’s market for underserved communities.
Few things strengthen the bonds between people faster and will make your corporate retreat experience more meaningful than sharing the pride that comes with helping out and supporting a worthy cause.
10. Get The Adrenaline Up
Of all the fun activities that you’re planning as part of your next company offsite, don’t forget to give your teams and co-workers the opportunity to get their adrenaline up before or after a day of meetings and brainstorming sessions.
Hitting the dopamine button with activities like go-cart racing, going to an amusement park, trying trapeze, flying high in a waterfront ferris wheel, or watching an experiential IMAX theater movie are proven to create better team building energy, develop deeper trust, and promote longer-term loyalty.
So, whether you host your next company offsite in a buzzing downtown business district or in a remote resort town in the middle of the mountains, make sure to plan team-building activities that will also stimulate your employees’ adrenal glands and funny bones as well as their problem solving and creative abilities.
11. Plan An Escape
No, unfortunately, we’re not talking about a spontaneous vacation to a private Caribbean island here (though that would probably be high on most people’s company retreat wish lists).
We’re talking escape rooms a.k.a. “exit games” where teams are challenged to work together to get themselves out of a theme-based room in an immersive adventure game using clues to accomplish incrementally harder tasks and tests while the clock is ticking.
Escape room themes run the gamut: nuclear reactor meltdowns, zombie apocalypses, prison breaks, and murder mysteries. Whichever you choose for your team, escape rooms literally and figuratively will have them problem-solving, communicating under pressure, and most of all, laughing all the way to safety.
12. Do Absolutely Nothing
While planned activities are great to keep everyone entertained, giving your team free time—and space—to do their own thing on a retreat is just as important. Whether that’s running, reading, napping, or a quick Netflix binge, downtime will help them feel “off the clock” even while onsite at a retreat.
All-in-all, small moments like a fire pit at sunset, a cold beer by the pool, and some good music can frequently do far more to help your team open clearer lines of communication, find common ground, and elevate corporate culture than a hundred overpriced corporate consultants.
Forget boring get-togethers, we’re taking you to a full-blown memory-making extravaganza! Family reunions that’ll go down in history, 50th birthday bashes that’ll make you feel like you’re 21 again, and bachelorette parties that’ll have everyone saying ‘YAS!’ And guess what? We’ve got the secret sauce: Our huge 8-bedroom vacation rentals that can fit your whole crew under one roof.
Think less ‘cramped quarters’ and more ‘epic adventure base.’ We have compiled our top 8 picks—these places aren’t just big, they’re bursting with fun! Private pools for splashing, hot tubs for chilling, yards that scream ‘let’s play!’, and enough space for everyone to unleash their inner party animal. Let’s find your dream getaway, shall we?
1. Hickory Ridge – Smoky Mountains, TN
Come here for a stay with a gorgeous wooden pavilion, hot tub, and sprawling multi-level decks — (yes, 3-floored deck) for all your gathering needs. Inside Hickory Ridge, revel in the high-ceiling space, a sleek kitchen, and eight bedrooms, each with its very own bathroom! End the day of fun by gathering in the spacious living areas by the wood-burning fireplace for cozy evenings with your family and loved ones.
River Rock is your cozy group-friendly ski retreat nestled among the pine trees. Just a quick bus ride from Peak 8 and a short walk to Breckenridge’s Main Street, coming back to this welcoming haven is truly an ease (and delight). After a day of adventure, unwind in the hot tub or sip a drink on the gazebo. You can also enjoy the home’s stone-walled fireplace, spacious kitchen, game room/home theater, and multiple living areas for groups to spread out.
Amenities:
Charming stone-walled fireplace
Expansive kitchen
Game room/home theater
Hot tub
Gazebo
Near to local attractions (restaurants, shopping, etc.)
Attention bachelorette groups—we’re looking at you. Starlight Estate in Coachella Valley has an exclusive indoor tennis court with air conditioning, guaranteeing endless fun regardless of the weather. When it’s time to cool off, a luxurious pool area with waterfalls and a jetted hot tub awaits. Dine with your “I Do Crew” with a view in the covered lounge area, sip cocktails at the bar and grilling area, or relax on the additional terrace. Let your crew’s desert adventure begin!
Hey beach lovers and fun seekers! Enjoy all the perks and space within this new Destin home, Four Suns, with a private, saltwater pool that’ll have you doing cannonballs all day, a hot tub for those chill evening vibes, and get this—six free bikes to pedal around like a local! Step inside and prepare to be wowed! Shiplap walls, comfy beds, and a living room that’s basically a giant hug. The kitchen and the dining table are perfect for those epic family feasts!
Welcome to La Barrique, where luxury meets serenity in the heart of Temecula’s vineyards and mountains. As the sun sets over the mountains, gather around the fire pit for marshmallow roasting or soak in the hot tub with a glass of local wine under the canopy of stars. This stunning property offers a range of activities that you can do, from picnics on the lawn to poolside ping pong, beach volleyball, and even poolside yoga.
Get ready to plant your flags at Pocono Pinnacle, the ultimate group hangout right by the shimmering shores of Towamensing Trails! We’re talking huge with eight bedrooms, enough space for 20 of your favorite people, and a vibe that screams “Let the good times roll!” Steps from the lake and beach? Yes, please! We’ve got eight passes for summer fun. You and your crew, chilling by the lake, this place is indeed designed for making memories.
Amenities:
8 lake and beach passes (summer months)
Spacious game room: pool table, foosball
Dry bar
Stone fireplace
Expansive deck with BBQ grill
Fishing allowed (pa fishing license required)
7. Sunset Shores Resort – The Grand House – Lake Norman, NC
From the moment you step through the beautiful glass double doors, you’ll be greeted by floor-to-ceiling windows that frame breathtaking Lake Norman views. Sunset Shores Resort – The Grand House (in Lake Norman, of course) is a stunning lakeside retreat with room for 22 guests. Imagine detailed millwork, 5″ maple flooring, and natural light pouring in from every angle. With 3 floors of living and entertaining space, plus expansive outdoor areas, you’ll have room to get used to the lake life.
Experience an incredible beach getaway right outside your door at Lighthouse. This fabulous Charleston beach house is a seaside escape where the waves are your soundtrack and the sun is your spotlight. You’ll find yourself in breezy spaces with comfy furnishings, soft linens, and that chic coastal vibe. Think mornings on the balcony, beach days, game room fun, al fresco dinners, and catching the sunset from the deck.
Experience the Best of Group Travel and Stay with AvantStay
If you’re searching for the perfect place to stay with a large group, our vacation rentals have just what you need. Spend the day indulging, then return to a peaceful home-away-from-home with all the amenities (and more) that you’re already used to.
Comfortable bedrooms, spacious backyards with pools, and spectacular views are just some of the things you’ll enjoy during your stay. Book your stay now as we are excited to see you soon!
You love to travel but you also finally got your routine down at home to stay active (we love a daily hot girl walk, too). We all want to keep our health in tip-top condition while we’re out adventuring, so here are a few tips we’ve pulled together from our experts to be active on vacation.
If you’re like us, you have probably been eager to jump back into traveling after a few years of missing out. We desperately want to get back to checking off our bucket list too, but we also know more than ever how important it is to stay healthy both physically and mentally. Remarkably, 42% of fitness-focused US travelers are ready to change their typical workout routines and adapt to the surroundings, trying some other types of exercise and travel workouts.
Let’s discuss how you can travel and stay active with a few helpful tips below.
How To Stay Active While Traveling
1. Try something new outdoors
First, let go of those sky-high expectations you’ve got about keeping up your exact exercise routine while you’re traveling. Remember that you’re on vacation—you’re in a new place and with that, comes really fun diverse ways to keep yourself active that you may not normally be able to do at home. Develop your strategy in advance by doing a little research into where you’re headed. Our favorite way to stay active is with outdoor activities: hiking, cycling, swimming, skiing, and so much more. Look into nearby trails, parks, or mountains to explore whatever piques your interest. Even if your version of getting outdoors is a walk around the neighborhood to the beloved local coffee shop, we call that a win.
Many AvantStay homes are located near national and state parks, golf courses, oceans and lakes, and other great opportunities to try a new activity.
You may enjoy Temecula, with its biking, horseback riding, and golfing, or you may go with a desert destination like Scottsdale to hike for a bit of cardio and a lot of spectacular sunset views. Scottsdale is also a well-known popular location for golfers, with around 200 area golf courses to enjoy. Here are a few more of our favorite outdoor activities to do on vacation:
Swimming If you love a refreshing dip, here are a couple vacation homes with the coolest pools to swim in. Spice up your swimming experience with one of our favorite pools with water slides and swim-up bars, perfect to cool off in and relax after your workout.
Tennis Tennis is another great recreational activity for you to enjoy on vacation. Take a peek at our list of vacation homes with private tennis courts and invite your favorite doubles partner for an active and enjoyable stay.
Volleyball Shore up your well-being in Malibu’s volleyball clubs, or right on the beach with a pickup game. This paradise on the Pacific encourages a little fun in the sun in any weather or season.
Snowboarding and skiing If you’re an avid skier, stay active and pump your adrenaline in Breckenridge. Or book a snowy escape to another one of the country’s best skiing and snowboarding hotspots – Park City, Utah.
Mountain biking Mountain biking is a popular activity in the mountains around Big Bear, and you’ll find a trail for any level nearby. Quite a few trails enjoy a view of the lake, so pack a lunch and make sure to plan time for a quick stop to enjoy the scenery.
Watersports In the mood for watersports? You can rent kayaks, powerboats, jet skis, etc. to really take advantage of all that Lake Tahoe has to offer during the summer.
2. Choose a vacation rental with built-in fitness facilities
By renting a vacation home or hotel with a home gym or fitness facility, you automatically guarantee yourself an easy place for a fun workout.
“Some vacation rentals can boast dedicated fitness centers, while others have gyms nearby. Use these opportunities to avoid interrupting your training schedule when traveling,” recommends Tim White, Founder of milepro.
“You may scroll through reviews and travel guides to see what other guests say about these facilities. What exercise machines do they have? Are they in a good condition? What about a swimming pool? Is there enough space? Also, there may be circumstances, when you’re not staying in the hotel but want to use their gym/pool. You should clarify whether non-guests can access it and on what conditions,” Tim adds.
In this case, you might need to have a membership to start your travel workout routine and enjoy the perks of a luxury resort without staying there.
If you would like to try some sports activities on your next getaway, check some recommendations below.
3. Bring your workout equipment along
Don’t worry, we’re not suggesting that you bring your entire collection of weights with you. There are great options out there for lightweight, travel-friendly, packable workout items that you can bring on vacation without having to check another bag. According to Matt Scarfo, NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Resident Training & Nutrition Expert at Lift Vault, “There should be sport-specific necessities and the basics on such a list. When I’m heading on a vacation abroad, the top five travel workout items on my packing list are sports clothing, sneakers, a jump rope, a resistance band, and a water bottle. Don’t forget about drinking enough water during the day, especially if you’re engaged in an intensive physical activity.” Travel workout equipment should be lightweight and on-the-go-friendly. Think about what types of activities you’ll enjoy doing the most, and pack only what works best for you. In addition to the recommendations above, we love wrist and ankle weights, push-up handles, or a swim cap and goggles. Don’t forget headphones—there’s nothing worse than working out in total silence.
4. Use an online fitness platform
Aside from helping you stay healthy and active during your vacation, online fitness tools or platforms are also a great way to travel smarter and cheaper. Create a travel workout plan customized to you with the P.volve training strategy. It combines resistance training and functional movement to activate your body and strengthen your muscles.
5. Breathe deeply with yoga
Whether or not you already have a yoga practice at home, yoga is such a great way to stay active while you’re traveling because it requires few accessories and it’s even better done outdoors with a great view, in our opinion. The advantages of yoga are backed by studies and you can enjoy them during your trip!
One of the great things about yoga is you can really do it anywhere that you have room to roll out a mat. Find a calm spot in a local park or at a local yoga studio—most studios offer drop-in spots for their classes.
Personally, we also enjoy when our vacation rental itself has a space to do yoga. Whether you’re rolling out a mat on the rooftop or backyard, or whether your vacation home even has a yoga studio like Scoot in Austin, TX, your next Are you thinking, “wait, a yoga mat takes up so much space in my luggage!” We’ve definitely wondered the same thing, but here’s a trick – you can do yoga off the mat! Our favorite place is with a great view, like one of our Lake Arrowhead cabins, for example, where you can try lakeside to energize your body, as well as meditation to soothe your mind. Fill yourself with positive thoughts and get an unforgettable experience at the beautiful Lake Arrowhead.
6. Opt to walk everywhere you can
Guided walking tours (or even a little random walking adventure) can enrich your travel experiences and boost your health. If you prefer a walk with a few opportunistic stops at local shops and wine bars, we highly recommend you take a happy hour walking tour in Paso Robles through downtown to sample local wines and olive oils along the way.
Or if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle and get out of town, choose a destination with a nearby national or state park to really enjoy the calmness and beauty of nature. For example, you might consider our travel guide to North Charleston, SC with its Park Circle, Riverfront Park, and Wescott Park.
We also love that Austin offers an opportunity to explore the city and get outside for a bit of hiking. It’s a great way to help you get rid of stress, improve your mood, and boost overall wellness, research says.
When you’re traveling, you probably end up spending more time than you’d like standing in lines, whether you’re in the airport security line or waiting to buy tickets for a museum.
Use these minutes to do mini workouts. In fact, John Gardner, Co-Founder & CEO of Kickoff, emphasizes that “Exercising in quick bites contributes greatly to your holistic wellness and the physical condition of your body, in particular.”
John also adds that “The best time for a mini travel workout is when you’re standing in the line at the biggest tourist attraction or waiting for a train, bus, plane, etc. As another option, you may try some in-car workouts for your neck, arms, chest, shoulders, and spine, if you’re stuck in a traffic jam, for instance.”
If you find yourself waiting outside with some free space around you, consider starting with a few moments of breathwork and then a few full-body movements and stretches.
Travel, Stay Active, and Healthy
Nowadays, we know to prioritize our health even when we’re on vacation. Use these tried-and-tested ways to keep up an active lifestyle while you’re out seeing the world, checking things off your bucket list. Use every single opportunity to move, make fun active plans with outdoor activities, look for fitness facilities, and pack the important workout items you need for a great workout.
Find a vacation home perfect for your active needs in over 100 destinations across the country with AvantStay. You can explore our properties here or download the app to compare vacation rentals.
Why did the golfer wear two pairs of pants? In case he got a hole in one!
Okay, we promise to not be that cheesy, but with a topic like golf, it’s kind of hard to steer clear of the dad jokes. Whether you’re living your cart girl fantasy (no judgment), or genuinely like to play golf, these vacation rentals on golf courses are here to set the par for your next getaway.
1. Greg Norman Estate – La Quinta, CA
Night swims are a must at this Coachella Valley home. Hop into the hot tub and cheers to views, brews, and a good day on the course. Located on the 2nd fairway of the prestigious Greg Norman Course in PGA West, this vacation home is the perfect retreat for the golfer in your life (and if you’re in this article, it’s safe to say you have one). Enjoy poolside days with a nice breeze provided by the misters and a huge built-in bar for your crew’s wannabe bartender. With views of the mountains, desert, and course, the Greg Norman Estate is a sight for sore eyes.
2. Fairway Ski and Golf Retreat – Park City, UT
Fairway Ski and Golf Retreatis a 4-bed stay with room for up to 10 guests. Conveniently positioned in between the golf course and ski lift, this retreat brings all you need for an active getaway. After a day filled with all Park City has to offer, enjoy a nice soak in the hot tub. Retreat indoors for a fireside sesh where you and the crew can get the game plan for whatever tomorrow brings – and if you check out our Park City guide, there’s a lot on that list.
3. Quinta Green – La Quinta, CA
This one’s a true winner. From its sleek interiors, to its hot tub and hammock, to an oh-so inviting pool, Quinta Green in Coachella Valleyis looking a lot like your next vacation home. This stay is stacked with 7 rooms, 11 beds, and room for up to 16 guests! Here you’ll be surrounded by golf courses, day spas, and dreamy mountain ranges. Looking for more to do during your stay? Check out our 25 Best Things to Do in Coachella Valley for an itinerary-style guide.
4. Clint at Brasada Ranch – Powell Butte, OR
Clint is located within the Brasada Ranch community in Central Oregon. Enjoy the community’s elevated golf range, indoor gym, day spa, basketball court, indoor pool, beach volleyball court, putting green, and TBH so much more but we really need to tell you about this house! This stay has a beautiful deck with a BBQ and fire pit overlooking the mountains. The interiors are warm, welcoming, and you’ve got room for you and up to 12 guests. When you’re done re-reading the list of amenities, maybe you’ll even have time to check out Mt. Bachelor for some skiing.
5. Moonshine – La Quinta, CA
Come to Moonshine for an unforgettable Coachella Valley vacation, with a pool that flows seamlessly into the PGA Golf Course so you can either watch the birds above or aim for birdies on the course. Filled with modern interiors, a cozy fireplace, and an outdoor kitchen, it’s no wonder Tyra Banks used to live in this decadent home. We’re assuming she was an entertainer, too, because this stay comes with all you need to host the gathering of your dreams with tons of indoor seating, a wet bar, foosball, and a lavish outdoor seating area.
About AvantStay: If you find yourself looking for a travel experience that values your privacy, safety, and cleanliness, AvantStay is the perfect fit. Apart from their top-of-the-line technology and innovation, AvantStay homes are in primo locations—places you’ve been dying to check out, with experiences you’re ready to check off your bucket list—like staying on a golf course.
Challenge: Help short-term rental stand out in a saturated market to drive more bookings and maximize owner revenue
Background
Dave is a short-term rental investor with several homes in the Pigeon Forge area. He reached out to AvantStay in 2021 for our vacation rental management services when he learned about our dedicated local support teams and elevated guest offerings.
Performance
Solution & Results
Vacation rentals in the Smoky Mountains tend to be similar, so Dave wanted to work with a company whose offerings would set his home apart from the competition. Leveraging our award-winning design and procurement teams, industry-leading distribution, and exclusive guest services like in-app upgrades and experiences, Dave’s home consistently outperforms his market cohorts.
After 15 months with AvantStay, Dave’s home has generated over $390,000 in gross revenue, drives steady bookings at high ADRs, and receives praise from guests on cleanliness, communication, and value.
“Josh, the area manager, went above and beyond to make sure every detail was perfect,” said AvantStay guest Theresa C. “We were welcomed with beautiful flowers in every room, new family board games, a s’mores kit, and wine. We requested to have a cooler brought over and one was delivered within hours, including ice! The level of service AvantStay provides is amazing!”
Interested in learning more about vacation rental management with AvantStay? Our experts are ready to help! Unlock your vacation rental’s full value and get started with our team today.
We all need a vacation, but sometimes it’s just not possible to fit one in your work schedule, which is why I’m a huge fan of working vacations, or, portmanteau-ed, “workcations.”
Big amongst the remote work set, workcations are a way to stay in a new location, spend your work hours doing your job, and explore a different city, state, or region in your offhours. Workcations gained popularity over the pandemic when the lines between home and office started to blur. After being cooped up at home, many felt that it would be better to work anywhere else—hence, the now popularity of workcations.
People with flexible work schedules might find it easier to take workcations, as they can work and play on their own time. However, regardless of the flexibility of your work schedule, if you are a remote worker, workcations are always an option.
Benefits of Workcations
There are quite a few benefits to workcations, including increased productivity and refreshed creativity from a change of scenery. Working from a beautiful vacation home, poolside, or coffee shop offers employees a great escape from the mundane, and is a great perk to offer for employee fulfillment. And of course, having a workcation somewhere you’ve always wanted to travel allows you to take the time to explore a new city without having to go fully out of office.
Follow These 4 Steps to Plan the Perfect Workcation:
Step 1: Map It Out
Planning ahead for a workcation involves a number of different moving parts, and it’s important to get all your ducks in a row for yourself and your team. So, in no particular order, you should:
Choose a destination
Find a work-ready home to stay in
Talk to your boss and team about your plans for what is necessary for you to work successfully (and happily) in a different location.
When choosing a destination, there are some considerations you’ll want to keep in mind. For example, if your job has strict hours and the rest of your team is in one timezone, you might want to search for a workcation rental in the same time zone. If you have a flexible work schedule, you’ll have more freedom to choose any destination your heart desires. As long as you show up for meetings and get your work done, you can go wherever you would like. You should also make sure your destination is somewhere you can enjoy given the constraints of your hours—if you plan on working during the day, a location where there isn’t much nightlife may be a less-than-optimal choice. Take a look at all of AvantStay’s destinations to figure out which works best for you.
Finding a home is the easy and fun part thanks to AvantStay’s Remote Work Collection. They considered the comfort of a workspace, productive lighting, and speed of wifi when putting it together, and it’s a great resource to discover homes that are genuinely conducive to the remote working environment. There are even options for people who wish to co-work in person!
Talking to your employer about your workcation will look different for everybody, but it’s key to remote working success. Discuss schedule demands, possible interruptions in workflow, and potentially get ahead on upcoming work so you can make the most of your workcation. If you’re a manager, you should also make sure to communicate with your team what your plan is. If there are assignments due while you’re gone, make sure to tell all stakeholders who those should go to. Ensure there will be times that you can answer questions, even if you’re out of the time zone you would typically be working in.
Step 2: Preparation, Preparation, Preparation
At home as remote workers, we have all the supplies we need, even the ones we don’t think we do. It’s easy to stay productive in an environment you have designed to encourage your own productivity. It’s important to also find a new environment that is designed for your productivity. Little things make a big difference here because it’s the little things that distract from big tasks.
Consider things like:
Climate: Will you be working outdoors or indoors? How hot/sunny will it be?
Noise level: Will there be kids and/or “adult kids” running around?
Physical comfort: Will you be wearing the same clothes to work as you do to explore?
Your sample workcation packing list:
Notepad or notebook
Pen
Laptop
Portable monitor, keyboard, & mouse (if you use them at home)
Surge protector or extension cord
Charging cords for everything
Noise-canceling headphones
Comfortable and work-ready clothing (especially if you are on Zoom calls often)
Lighting (depending on where you intend on working)
Step 3: Stay On Top Of It
Productivity may be the most important factor to consider when planning your workcation, but it is also the most logistically difficult to prepare for. Vacations are fun and distracting, and if you don’t think you’ll be able to work, don’t plan on having a workcation. Try to be as realistic as you can about how much time you will have to devote to work (full-time? part-time?) and plan accordingly, communicating with your boss throughout.
At the end of the day, you know what keeps you productive. If it’s a 15-minute break every two hours, go for it. If it’s a snack every so often, keep them nearby. If it’s good lighting, make sure you will be in a space that is conducive to that. Productivity is different for everyone, and while we recommend keeping a schedule and working in a comfortable environment, what those things look like will vary depending on the person. Ultimately, the more you stay true to yourself about these elements, the more personal and professional success you will have on your workcation.
Step 4: Experience the Local Culture
The “cation” part of workcation is important to remember. If your work allows, get out and experience the culture of where you are during the day. This could mean working from a local cafe for a few hours or jogging around the neighborhood you’re staying in at night.
If you’re finding it tough to get away from your computer even on your workcation, consider hiring a local chef to cook your dinner. Use the AvantStay app to book upgrades and experiences like a private chef or fridge stocking during your stay.
With the tips above, you’ll definitely be set to take on a workcation. Although it might feel intimidating the first time after you’ve done it once and found your groove it’ll feel just like working at home.
Not quite ready to take on a workcation yourself? A team offsite can have a similar impact on your work. Consider an AvantStay home for your next offsite or drop a hint to your boss – they’ll likely appreciate it!
Fort Lauderdale is a year-round oceanfront getaway in South Florida with endless activities for couples, families, and friends to enjoy year-round. In fact, whether you’re a local or just visiting for spring break or a weekend, there are so many cool things to experience in and around this beachside city that it can be hard to decide what to do first.
Twenty-five miles north of Miami, Fort Lauderdale is just a short drive from Miami’s lively nightlife, award-winning restaurant scene, and unparalleled shopping districts, but it has the benefit of fewer crowds.
That makes Fort Lauderdale an idyllic place to spend some time lounging in the Sunshine State’s perfect weather, exploring the many nearby attractions, or taking in its picturesque canals, while never feeling too far removed from Miami’s buzzing and diverse international energy.
So, if you’re planning a trip to South Florida or Fort Lauderdale, we’ve got you covered —from kayak adventures and airboat tours to the best shopping, entertainment, and outdoor experiences. With this list of the 30 best things to do in Fort Lauderdale, you’ll be perfectly prepared to experience all of the fun in the sun that you can handle in the “Venice of America.”
Let’s jump in!
1. Swim at Fort Lauderdale Beach
Fort Lauderdale Beach is a must-visit if you’re passing through South Florida. This seven-mile stretch of white sand and crystal blue ocean—famous for its reputation as a Spring Break Mecca—is within walking distance of Las Olas Boulevard (#3 on this list) and close to many of Fort Lauderdale’s top-rated restaurants like Gianni’s Table.
You can enjoy swimming, jet skiing, snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding, sunbathing, and more at Fort Lauderdale Beach without ever running out of things to do.
The Fort Lauderdale Beachfront promenade also has scenic walking and biking paths lined with palm trees and benches along the ocean, making it the perfect spot to stop for a little sightseeing or indulge in some ice cream.
2. Explore the Everglades
The Everglades are not technically in Fort Lauderdale. But this iconic National Park is located just west of the city and is absolutely worth visiting especially if you’re a nature lover or looking for adventure.
The Everglades wilderness comprises the largest area of contiguous wetlands in America and is the perfect place to get face-to-face with South Florida’s spectacular beauty, birdlife, and wildlife, or maybe even spot an alligator or a Florida Panther, among other fun things.
Everglades National Park protects 1.5-million hectares of wetlands from environmental harm and there are multiple interpretive centers and exhibits throughout the Park that explain to visitors the importance and rarity of this vital, tropical ecosystem. Families, couples, and friends looking for a little more of an adrenaline-boosting experience also can enjoy airboat tours, kayak rides, or an alligator safari through the Everglades.
3. Shop on Las Olas Boulevard
You can’t go to downtown Fort Lauderdale without taking a stroll down Las Olas Boulevard. Shopping along Las Olas—frequently referred to as the Rodeo Drive of South Florida—is one of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale because it has everything you need to shop until you drop.
Swanky stores, boutique shops, and iconic brands line this manicured street near the ocean. And when hunger or thirst strikes, there are dozens of nearby restaurants and bars to satiate your cravings and fuel your second wind. You also might just spot a celebrity or two.
4. Suntan at Hollywood Beach
Hollywood Beach is one of the popular Fort Lauderdale beaches. The soft sand makes Hollywood Beach an ideal spot to unfurl a blanket or towel and enjoy a picnic or tanning session. Be sure also to bring your bathing suit since the clear blue Atlantic Ocean will beckon you in especially if you visit in the middle of the day.
Hollywood Beach boasts a beautiful 2.5-mile boardwalk in addition to the beach itself which is a hub of activity, restaurants, and bars attracting both locals and visitors year-round.
5. Enjoy a Show at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is one of Fort Lauderdale’s cultural icons. This playhouse is one of the most visited in the world and hosts over 700 performances each year, making it an ideal place to spend an afternoon or evening if you ever want to get out of the sun.
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located on the scenic banks of the New River, so you can admire the spectacular view before and after you enjoy one of the shows. If the Broward Center is fully booked, check out the nearby Parker Playhouse, which is another Fort Lauderdale cultural hotspot where you and your travel companions can experience South Florida’s emerging arts scene and enjoy a show.
6. Visit the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
One of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale if you love the outdoors is a day trip to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. This state park spans 180 acres of preserved land where visitors and residents can picnic on the beach or grass, camp under the stars, hike along nature trails, witness spectacular wildlife, or go on a guided tour.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is open year-round from 8:00 a.m. until sunset, and the entrance fee to the park is under $10 per vehicle. Just be sure to book your tour tickets in advance to ensure you get the time slot of your preference, especially if you want to stay out of the sun in the middle of the day.
7. Dine at S3 (Sun Surf Sand)
S3 (Sun Surf Sand) is one of the top-rated restaurants in Fort Lauderdale that serves up award-winning seafood, steak, and sushi. The restaurant opened its doors in Fort Lauderdale in 2013 and has been a favorite spot for locals and visitors ever since.
S3 has gorgeous views of Fort Lauderdale Beach and the Atlantic Ocean while offering artfully crafted food that’s designed to be shared for a culinary experience that everyone at the table can be a part of.
Each plate served up at S3 includes delicious cuts of premium meat, freshly caught fish, and locally sourced ingredients so you’re guaranteed to never go home from here hungry.
8. See Animals at Flamingo Gardens
Flamingo Gardens in Fort Lauderdale is a family-friendly, exotic, and exciting thing to do. Why? Because there are few animals more photogenic or statuesque than the bright pink flamingo.
Flamingo Gardens is technically a botanical garden, but it’s also an aviary (a.k.a. bird) zoo that provides a peaceful escape and unique opportunity to experience South Florida’s wild nature without ever having to leave Fort Lauderdale.
Flamingo Gardens is home to dozens of native “Champion” trees (state record holders in size, width, and age) as well as hummingbird species and countless rare plants. Be sure to have your camera handy as you wander through the scenic pathways and mangrove forests.
9. Go Shopping at Sawgrass Mills
Sawgrass Mills in Fort Lauderdale is the largest single-story outlet mall in America, so remember to charge your Fitbit or Apple Watch before you go to get credit for all the steps you’ll take while shopping at the hundreds of stores.
Sawgrass Mills features dozens of famous retail brands like Balenciaga, Armani, Burberry, and many more, while also offering a vast selection of excellent food options throughout the mall. If you prefer to pay full price for luxury brands, you can also head to The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale for one of South Florida’s most famous, premium shopping experiences.
10. Explore Butterfly World
Butterfly World is exactly what it sounds like: a butterfly sanctuary with over 20,000 colorful butterflies and birds. Butterfly World is the perfect attraction to visit when you’re exploring Fort Lauderdale if you want to do more than just shop or lay on the beach.
Whether you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or family, Butterfly World offers guided educational tours or you can also wander around and explore at your own pace. The South Florida Adventure Pass includes entry to Butterfly World as well as three other top outdoor destinations to visit in Fort Lauderdale, including Flamingo Gardens, Sawgrass Recreation Park, and the Museum of Discovery and Science.
11. Learn To Surf
Make vacation memories and get your adrenaline pumping by taking a surfing lesson in Fort Lauderdale. Pompano Beach is one of the best spots to try this watersport because the waves are consistent and not too forceful. However, you can enjoy surfing along nearly any Fort Lauderdale beach.
If you’re not quite ready to ride the waves on a surfboard yet, try taking a paddleboarding lesson instead to get your feet wet. Paddleboarding lets you get out onto the water, but the large board is easier to stay upright on than a surfboard and there typically aren’t any waves involved.
12. Embark on a Seaplane Tour
If sightseeing is on your travel bucket list, then a seaplane tour is a must-do when visiting Fort Lauderdale. You can fly over Fort Lauderdale for 30 minutes and soak in the views as you soar through the sky, getting a unique vantage point of the crystal clear the Atlantic Ocean, white sand beaches, and towering palm trees of South Florida.
A seaplane tour of Fort Lauderdale is more expensive than your standard boat sightseeing tour, but it will be a memory that your entire travel group will remember for years to come.
13. Enjoy a Boat Cruise
Fort Lauderdale has endless boat cruise options that allow you to experience South Florida’s coastline, beaches, bays, and canals from the water. A sightseeing cruise is one of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale because it shows off this beach city from a new vantage point and allows you to get out on the water without actually getting in it.
Las Olas Gondola operates romantic boat tours in a fleet of Venetian-style gondolas, while the Jungle Queen Riverboat is a multi-deck ferry for large sightseeing tours along Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront.
Fort Lauderdale is also known as the yachting capital of the U.S. So, don’t miss the chance to hop onto one of the city’s luxury yachts if you’re looking for a fast-paced on-the-water experience.
14. Kayak Along the Venetian Isles
There’s no better way to explore the “Venice of America” and Fort Lauderdale’s intricate system of canals than in a single or tandem kayak.
You can rent a kayak or book a group kayaking tour depending on your comfort level. Whatever you choose, experiencing Fort Lauderdale by kayak lets you go at your own pace as you meander through the crystal-clear waterways and allows you to see some of South Florida’s most expensive waterfront mansions in a unique way.
15. Visit the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
The Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is a historic home museum in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. The house was built in 1920 and was formerly the home of two famous American artists, Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett.
The Bonnet House Museum shows off the artists’ furnished home and also includes many of their original works of art still decorating the walls.
The gardens are a space of tranquility amidst the city. The brightly colored flowers beg to be photographed, while the manicured gardens offer a calming place to relax and rejuvenate after a busy day at the beach canoeing, in a kayak, or on a seaplane tour.
16. Learn about South Florida History at the Historic Stranahan House Museum
The Historic Stranahan House Museum is the oldest standing house in Broward County, which includes Fort Lauderdale. This historic home was built in 1901 and was the residence of two of Fort Lauderdale’s first residents, Frank and Ivy Stranahan.
Enjoy a guided tour through the museum and Stranahan house, while hearing stories about one of Fort Lauderdale’s founding families and learning more about the history of this bustling, up-and-coming city.
17. Go Sightseeing on the Community Shuttle
Formerly known as the Sun Trolley, the Community Shuttle is an easy and effortless way to get around Fort Lauderdale. It’s free to ride and has links and stops throughout the city, so it’s perfect for visitors who want to self-guide themselves on a tour of Fort Lauderdale’s top sights and attractions.
Whether you use the Community Shuttle for sightseeing or as cheap transportation, it’s a convenient way to check off multiple items on this list of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale. Especially if you aren’t driving into town or don’t want to rent a car.
18. Try a Meal at Casa D’Angelo
Casa D’Angelo is one of Fort Lauderdale’s best restaurants where you can indulge in delicious Northern Italian cuisine and a large wine selection in an elegant, upscale atmosphere.
Casa D’Angelo’s food is award-winning, its service impeccable, and it’s the original location of the now famous brand started by chef Angelo Elia, which currently has other locations throughout the U.S. If you’re a foodie—or just spent all day working up an appetite being out and about around town—Casa D’Angelo is a can’t-miss Fort Lauderdale culinary icon.
19. Have Fun on a Floating Tiki Bar
Fort Lauderdale Cruisin’ Tikis proves that boat tours in the Venice of America come in all shapes and sizes. On this tiki bar boat cruise, you and your friends can enjoy drinks, live entertainment, and experience Fort Lauderdale’s scenic waterways all at the same time.
Cruisin’ Tikis has boat tours with jazz music under the stars as well as cruises that depart morning, afternoon, and at sunset. You can also custom charter a tiki bar boat for a private party which will make for a waterfront event that you and your traveling companions will remember for the rest of your lives.
20. Try Something Delicious at The Katherine
One of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale is to experience its world-class, up-and-coming culinary scene. The Katherine is a new restaurant in Fort Lauderdale that opened its doors in 2021 and has quickly established itself as one of the city’s most coveted reservations.
This Argentinian Steakhouse serves up premium cuts of meat in artfully plated dishes. The skilled chefs can also accommodate allergies and food intolerances as well as whip up something special for the kids. Don’t pass up the decadent dessert menu when you’ve finished dinner either.
21. See Art at the NSU Art Museum
The NSU Art Museum in Fort Lauderdale is one of the places to visit in the city if it rains or you need a few hours out of the sun. The exhibitions and art installations are inspiring and educational, and they are sure to keep everyone in your travel group entertained.
The art gallery has permanent and rotating exhibitions so that visitors who have explored the NSU before can always find something new.
After browsing the paintings, sculptures, and digital art, head to the onsite cafe and gift shop to pick up treats and souvenirs.
22. Win Big at the Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino
If you’re feeling lucky during your getaway to Fort Lauderdale, head to the Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino in nearby Hallandale Beach to experience the energy of a real-life horse race, a pulse-pounding casino night, or to catch some live entertainment or a show.
The Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino are also home to several excellent restaurants so you can easily spend an entire afternoon or evening here (or both) without running out of things to do.
23. Open Your Mind at the Museum of Discovery and Science
The Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale is an excellent activity for the entire family to enjoy. This interactive museum and science center has hands-on exhibits for kids and kids-at-heart to learn from.
The Museum of Discovery and Science includes an onsite IMAX 3D theater, a prehistoric Florida section, and interactive exhibits about Florida’s rare flora, fauna, and ecosystems. For outdoor lovers, the Museum of Discovery and Science is an excellent activity to pair with a visit to Flamingo Gardens or the Everglades.
24. Pretend to be a Pirate on a Bluefoot Pirate Adventure
Bluefoot Pirate Adventures is one of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale, especially if you are visiting with children. This exciting boat tour takes the whole family out to sea on a replica pirate ship, where you’ll take orders from your captain, learn pirate lingo, and even battle another pirate ship with water cannons.
This interactive tour gets you and your travel group out onto Fort Lauderdale’s beautiful crystal clear waters while making endless vacation and Instagram-worthy memories that your kids will love.
25. Have a Blast at Flippo’s Family Center
Flippos Family Center is an indoor playground that spans 9,000 square feet of interactive fun and offers families the perfect place to visit in Fort Lauderdale if it’s raining, too hot outside, or you’re just looking for something unique to do. At Flippo’s Family Center, you and your kids can slide down mega slides, play in the laser maze, cannonball into ball pits, climb, jump, and play.
Children ages one to 14 are welcome to run around and blow off some steam while parents can enjoy drinks and snacks in the comfortable seating areas.
26. See alligators at Sawgrass Recreation Park
Sawgrass Recreation Park is a beautiful destination near Fort Lauderdale that your entire family will enjoy. The Sawgrass Recreation Park is in the Florida Everglades and offers unique tours through miles of jaw-dropping scenery and wetland wilderness.
An airboat ride at Sawgrass Recreation Park is also one of the best ways to see an alligator because these flat-bottomed boats with a giant fan on the back instead of an engine are designed to explore shallow waters like the Everglades.
27. Have a Beer at Invasive Species Brewing
After a long day of exploring, head to Invasive Species Brewing and try one—or a few—of this craft brewery’s delicious beers.
You never know what to expect at Invasive Species Brewing because their beer selection constantly rotates based on the experiments they conduct in their taproom, and their menu adjusts weekly based on which seasonal ingredients are available.
The brewery and bar are also decorated with taxidermied native animals on nearly every free wall space for a unique and laid-back atmosphere that perfectly captures the South Florida outdoor vibe.
28. Play a round of golf
Fort Lauderdale is home to some of South Florida’s best golf courses, so you have unending options to choose from if you like to hit the greens on vacation. Enjoy a scenic spot to practice your shots as well as clubhouses with epic views.
The private Grand Oaks Golf Club is one of Fort Lauderdale’s most renowned courses, but golfers must have a membership or know someone who’s a member to play here. Other respected golf courses in Fort Lauderdale include:
29. Have a Drink at the Blue Martini
The Blue Martini is a sophisticated bar and nightclub in Fort Lauderdale on Sunrise Boulevard at the Galleria Mall. For anyone visiting Fort Lauderdale over the age of 21, this bar and nightclub is a must-visit spot.
The Blue Martini is open Wednesday to Sunday nights with Happy Hour between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. They also have live music almost around the clock, which will get you and your travel companions onto the dance floor. If you’re traveling in a large group, you can also host private events here.
30. Rent an epic vacation home
One of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale is to rent a vacation home with a pool, comfortable amenities, water views, and a space for your furry friends to run around. There are so many options of amazing rentals for families, friends, and couples that give you more privacy than a hotel room as well as the comfort of feeling like you’re at home.
Whether you’re looking for a vacation rental near your favorite beach or you want to rent a home that’s closer to one of your must-see attractions while you’re in town, Fort Lauderdale has rental options suited to any type of traveler.
Conclusion
Fort Lauderdale is chock-full of fun activities and things to do for couples, groups, and families. Travelers searching for history and culture will adore the Historic Stranahan House Museum and the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Meanwhile, adventure lovers will get a thrill out of jet skiing, an airboat tour, or exploring Fort Lauderdale’s canals by kayak or paddleboard.
If you prefer a slower pace, enjoy lounging on the many amazing Fort Lauderdale beaches or shopping at outlet malls and boutique shops. Whatever you choose, you’re in for a great time in the “Venice of America.”
Looking for an adventurous way to get out on the water? Our top five favorite jet ski rental Key West providers offer exclusive access to explore the turquoise waters that surround the island. Thrill-seekers visiting Key West will want to check a jet ski tour off their travel checklist.
Key West Water Tours
Key West Water Tours offers a two-hour guided tour that covers 26 miles in the waters that surround Key West. Coined as the “Ultimate Island Tour,” this jet ski excursion in Key West brings guests to all the most popular spots, including the Southernmost Point, the historic Key West Harbor, submarine pits, and more. Plus, those of age will get free beer after the tour.
Sunset Waverunner Tours and Rentals
Looking for the spot with the cheapest jet ski rentals Key West? Sunset Watersports markets itself as having the lowest price in town for its 1.5-hour, 28-mile tour. Go on a tour around the entire island, stopping at all the most popular viewpoints. You can also rent jet skis through Sunset by the hour.
Island Safari Tours
Get an expert local tour guide at Island Safari Tours. This jet ski rental company in Key West offers five tour times throughout the day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the spring and summer, and four tour times during fall and winter. Get a chance to see sea turtles, dolphins, coral reefs, and so much more in the waters around Key West.
Key West Jet Ski
Key West Jet Ski offers guided tours seven days a week from the Margaritaville Resort & Marina. The tour company has five time slots each day for 90-minute jet ski tours of Key West. Get a chance to visit the Southernmost Point, remote islands, backcountry, natural sandbars, and more.
Fury Cat
Fury’s Jet Ski tours take guests along a 28-mile journey to discover the beautiful waters of Key West. Catch a glimpse of dolphins, sea turtles, aquatic birds, and more. The 90-minute scenic tour is done on Sea-Doo jet skis, known for their smooth handling and high performance.
If you’re planning your trip to Key West, browse our activities and things to do for ideas. Key West may just be a little more than seven square miles, but there’s so much to do. Book your Key West vacation rentalwith us and start planning your trip today.
Breathe in, breathe out… Ski-in, ski-out! Nothing’s better than waking up, putting your gear on and heading directly outside to hit the slopes. After you spend the day getting your (ski) on, kick back at a vacation home where you can have apres ski moments you’ll never forget.
All vacation homes included here are within walking distance to the slopes of their respective towns. Other than being in the perfect location for powder days, these group friendly ski-town stays come with modern interior design, guest support at your fingertips (via our app), and add-on services like fridge stocking, private chefs, and at-home massages—all perfect for full relaxation after the slopes.
1. Bronson – Lake Tahoe, CA
Starting this round-up strong with one of our personal faves. Meet Bronson, a Lake Tahoe, CA stay located right on Olympic Valley. Less worrying, more skiing—this home comes with snowshoeing equipment for your stay. We provide two sets of snowshoes with two adult poles and one set of child poles. With room for up to 12 guests, everyone can come and enjoy this vacation home’s expansive deck with a fire pit, hot tub, and views of the ski lift above!
2. Snowdrift Cabin – Telluride, CO
Snowdrift Cabinis a secluded Telluride, CO vacation spot. Filled with traditional wood beams, this cabin vacation rental has prime ski access on Lift 10’s Galloping Goose trail, gorgeous sunset views of the San Sophia ridgeline, multiple expansive decks, a hot tub, and loft area. Downstairs, you’ll find a dedicated rec room with a gas fireplace and games for the whole crew. Be sure to take advantage of Mountain Village’s Dial-a-Ride service where you can enjoy a free ride to the Village Core and the Gondola connecting to the Town of Telluride.
3. Cimarron Lodge – Telluride, CO
Tell the crew you’re ready for a trip to Telluride, CO. This Cimarron Lodge unit is located right on the slopes. Enjoy days not spent waiting in line to ski with this ski-in/ski-out condo situated along the San Miguel River. Bring up to 8 guests and enjoy your apres ski with a hot tub happy hour. Looking for more to do on your trip? Check out our Top Things to Do in Telluride.
4. Twin Chutes – Breckenridge, CO
Breckenridge, CO is calling! Twin Chutesis a 4 bed stay with room for up to 12 guests. Conveniently located next to the ski lifts, this stay provides great ski access and even better Colorado mountain views. This condo comes with great amenities like a hot tub, billiards table, gym, and fireplace! We even give you a guitar—so for those who like songs around the campfire, you’re in luck.
5. Slopeside at Sundance – Telluride, CO
Looking for a traditional woodsy cabin? Slopeside at Sundance(not to be confused with Slopeside in Park City mentioned above) is a Telluride, CO vacation home located adjacent to the slopes and true ski access directly onto the popular Sundance ski run. Wake up to window views of the pine trees, and sip your morning coffee on the picturesque patio. After a long day of skiing, decompress in the sauna to let the heat melt away any and all soreness.
6. Rocker – Breckenridge, CO
Welcome to Rocker. Nestled right by the Quicksilver Chairlift, this ski-in/ski-out haven sets the perfect tone for your Breckenridge getaway. Step inside to a cozy vibe filled with chill furnishings, inviting bedrooms, and a kitchen that’ll get any foodie’s heart racing.
7. Etta Place – Telluride, CO
Step into Etta Place – a cozy one-bedroom Telluride condo nestled right against the ski hill, offering breathtaking views of the valley. When it comes to hitting the trails or shredding some snow, you’re just a few steps away from accessing it all—thanks to Lift #7 right at your doorstep.
8. Townhome on the Creek – Telluride, CO
Townhome on the Creek is a deluxe four-bedroom ski-in/ski-out home in Telluride’s Mountain Village. With easy ski access, private hot tub, and three decks with stunning views, your stay promises relaxation and convenience. Enjoy complimentary shuttle service, concierge service, and access to Trek bicycles for seamless travel in the area.
9. Silver Sun – Park City, UT
Welcome to Silver Sun in Park City’sDeer Valley’s Empire Pass, where stunning mountain views await from this custom home. With ski-in/ski-out access just 150 feet away, it’s a dream for avid skiers seeking convenience. This retreat offers two generous living spaces for gatherings, along with a private office featuring a workstation for those needing to stay connected while enjoying the mountain getaway.
Feeling motivated to get your ski on? We don’t blame you! If you’re looking for even more places to ski-in/ski-out, check out our collection of Ski-in/Ski-out Vacation Homes.
About AvantStay: If you find yourself looking for a travel experience that values your privacy, safety, and cleanliness, AvantStay is the perfect fit. Apart from their top-of-the-line technology and innovation, AvantStay homes are in primo locations—places you’ve been dying to check out, with experiences you’re ready to check off your bucket list—like staying at a ski-in/ski-out home!
One of the most crucial aspects of vacation rental marketing is taking high-quality, eye-catching photos. When creating a listing for your home, prioritize photography! These photos are some of the first things guests notice when looking to book a stay, and are often the deciding factor when choosing between similar homes. We went to a seasoned expert to get the inside scoop on the importance of vacation rental photography.
“Vacation rental photography is all about creating an emotional connection,” says Sasha Tivetsky, AvantStay’s Associate Director of Photography. “Photos are everything when it comes to creating vacation rental listings. When guests look through photos of a home, they begin to imagine their experience there and create a story.”
How do you create an emotional connection through photos to drive more bookings? Keep reading to discover Sasha’s six simple photography tips.
1. Style your space
Styling your home takes a photoshoot to the next level. Don’t leave tables bare and boring. Bring in floral arrangements and fruits for your table settings to add to the appeal of the home. This helps guests imagine themselves enjoying your space. You aren’t selling the home, you’re selling the guest experience.
2. Take straight-on shots
Symmetrical shots are the most pleasing in vacation rental photography. Avoid taking photos in a corner and use a grid on your camera to keep all lines as straight as possible.
3. Embrace natural lighting
Natural lighting, especially golden hour, is a photographer’s best friend. When taking photos of your home, pull back the curtains or open the blinds to let all the available light into the room. Golden hour (the period of daytime right after sunrise or before sunset when light appears warmer and softer) is the best time to shoot, especially if you want to capture a west-facing pool.
4. Showcase your surroundings
Another big selling point for potential guests is your location. Promote your view and local surroundings by opening any sliding doors and windows. This helps show guests the full experience your vacation rental has to offer.
5. Avoid objects too close to the frame
Be aware of objects too close to the frame, like a table or chair. They can distort the whole image and take up precious space in your vacation rental photos.
6. Leave it to the pros
Ditch your iPhone camera and hire a professional photographer. They’ll be able to capture your home’s unique features with stunning photographs and make your home shine on saturated listing sites like Airbnb and Vrbo. Luckily, when you partner with AvantStay, you get access to our in-house stylists and photographers that will take your vacation rental marketing to the next level.
What sets AvantStay apart from other vacation rental managers is our professional styling. Our stylists incorporate unique elements to your home inspired by local surroundings—from opulent table settings to relaxing pool-side setups. They also add indoor and outdoor games to amplify your home’s experiential elements and make it feel welcoming and fun.
Next, our Photography team schedules a professional photo shoot where our stylists and photographers collaborate to ensure we capture your home at its best. We use high-end professional photography equipment and drone footage to showcase every aspect of your home. This illustrates the full potential of the stay to our guests while highlighting your home’s key revenue drivers.
Finally, our in-house Listings and Distribution team manages your inventory across more than 65 leading distribution platforms known as Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), specifically curated for your home. This leads to maximized views of your home, more bookings, better reviews, and higher revenue.
Although there’s uncertainty in the broader market, there’s nothing uncertain about the exponential growth in the US short-term rental market. Demand is up 26.7% year-over-year, with travel continuing to grow coming out of the pandemic. Demand and bookings are predicted to see continued growth through the rest of 2022, in addition to supply which is expected to increase by 21%. This rise in available listings may be a stressor to short-term rental owners and investors, but with some simple marketing tricks, you can make your vacation rental shine among the competition. Check out these eight vacation rental marketing tips to improve visibility, drive more bookings, and increase your revenue!
8 tips to supercharge how you market your vacation rental
Optimize your vacation rental listing
The basis of vacation rental marketing begins with a well-optimized listing. That is your first touchpoint with potential guests and entices them to book a stay. Start with your title, description, and keywords. Your title should describe your vacation rental and leave potential guests compelled to click your listing. Then you can use your description to paint a picture of the guest experience at your home, including all the details that make your property stand out from the competition.
Don’t just list amenities. Describe how guests can make their own memories at your home! Do you have a private hot tub perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes? Or a game room for some friendly competition and family game nights? Use these in your listing to encourage travelers to hit that “Book Now” button.
When crafting your headline and description, incorporate search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to further boost your reach. Research search terms (“keywords”) that are popular in your market and add those to your listing. Some examples could be “private beachfront rental in Hilton Head” or “dog-friendlyJoshua Tree vacation rental.”
Use high-quality professional photographs
Capture guest attention on your listing with eye-catching photos. Hire a professional photographer to take high-resolution photos of your vacation rental that accurately reflect the space, amenities, views, and what guests can expect when they walk into your home. Take it one step further and add Matterport images so guests can take a virtual tour of your property. Update these photos and descriptions after making any changes to your home so guests can see the latest and greatest (and so they don’t leave negative reviews about an inaccurate listing).
Price strategically for year-round success
Pricing your short-term rental for market and seasonal trends is one of the trickiest parts of running a vacation rental. If traveler demand is high in your market, you could lose money by pricing your home too low. On the other hand, if your home is priced too high compared to similar homes in the area, you could lose potential bookings. Researching your local market is important so you can accurately and competitively charge for bedroom count, amenities, views, proximity to local attractions, and other key features.
List your property on multiple platforms
Promoting your vacation rental on multiple online travel agencies (OTAs) gets your home in front of more people and means more potential bookings. Airbnb, Vrbo, Expedia, and Booking.com are popular OTAs for vacation rental homes. Make sure you understand each site’s criteria and functionality for listing your property, and create a strategy for managing your listing across each. You’ll have to stay on top of guidelines, optimizing your listing, guest inquiries, reservations, and reviews for each platform to enhance your home’s performance.
Start a vacation rental blog
Flaunt your local expertise with a vacation rental blog on your website. A blog is an easy way to increase your visibility on search engines. With a thoughtful SEO strategy and the use of relevant keywords, you can drive more traffic to your website and increase bookings.
Travelers appreciate recommendations and tips from a local. Pair your expertise with your keyword research to write helpful content for potential guests. You can also repurpose your blog content to share on social media. Some articles that our AvantStay writers create for our blog include topics like:
With 4.6 billion social media users worldwide, it’d be a mistake not to incorporate these platforms into your vacation rental marketing strategy. Social media is a great (and free) way to tap into new audiences and keep your past guests engaged so they are inspired to come back. Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are popular among travelers looking to plan their next trip, so be sure to show off your home and its amenities across these sites.
Also, consider investing in social media ads to amplify your reach. Facebook and Pinterest make it easy to narrow your target audience. You can choose to show your ads to your ideal guest by using filters like location, age, interests, and more. This allows you to get the most out of your advertising budget while optimizing for bookings.
Build an email marketing strategy
Keep past guests and interested subscribers engaged and eager to book a stay at your vacation rental with marketing emails. Easy-to-use platforms like Mailchimp and Constant Contact offer newsletter templates and simple customization options so you can promote your home to travelers in just a few clicks. These platforms also allow you to keep track of your subscribers and measure email performance. Set a regular schedule, like once a month or every other week, so subscribers know when to expect your newsletter.
People receive dozens of emails a day, so keep your newsletter content to one or two ideas to keep your readers’ attention. You can use email marketing to promote reduced rates or specials, and even provide travel tips and recommendations.
Create an exceptional guest experience
While it may not be a traditional marketing strategy, going above and beyond for your guests can improve your vacation rental marketing efforts. Potential guests will look at your ratings and reviews when deciding to book a stay at your home, so don’t overlook this step in your marketing strategy. Happy guests leave positive reviews, which drives more bookings, repeat visitors, and more vacation rental income.
Providing thoughtful items like a welcome package and vacation rental guest book are little details that guests will appreciate. Is this a holiday celebration or a wedding anniversary? This personal touch goes a long way to give your guests the experience they are looking for. Non-negotiable services like quick communication, leaving the home well-stocked, and CDC-grade cleaning are all key to driving five-star ratings.
Don’t be afraid to ask your guests to leave a review after their stay, and always respond to negative reviews in a professional manner. Also, consider providing incentives for guests to refer friends and family to book a stay in the future.
Ramp up your vacation rental marketing with AvantStay
Creating a vacation rental marketing strategy (and sticking to it!) can be a lot of work. If you’d rather rely on a team of experts to market your vacation rental and maximize bookings for you, look no further. Partner with a vacation rental management company like AvantStay to earn more revenue and plug into a suite of services that will take your vacation rental to the next level.
Our dedicated teams at AvantStay will do all of the above—and more—on your behalf. We offer end-to-end, flexible management programs to give you peace of mind. From financials to design to maintenance, we take care of your home as if it were our own. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings operationalizes in-field management and activates an elevated guest experience. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and reap the rewards.
Interested in learning more about what it means to partner with AvantStay? Our team is ready to help. Get in touch with our vacation rental experts today!
We spoke to the owner of our Austin home, Dawson, and asked all about his experience owning a property with AvantStay. Let’s dive in!
Why did you choose AvantStay?
I loved the income potential for my property with short term rentals. I’d had a property manager before but they were still making it to where it was a lot of work for me—so I was very open to a new PM company. I loved how AvantStay has a design and experiential point of view and I own a unique property that fits their vision, so I felt we made great partners.
What was the onboarding process like?
Painless. I felt very at ease by their approach and felt my terms were market appropriate. They assigned a local property manager whom I met in person. We cleared out our personal effects, they did their design things—so I didn’t do much except get out of the way!
What upgrades did AvantStay make in your home?
I actually don’t know as I haven’t set foot in the place since I left, which should tell you how comfortable I am. But I believe it included painting, some fresh decor and new beds. Very appropriate and reasonable.
What’s the one thing that has stood out the most during your experience with us?
Everyone, to a person, has done what they said they were going to do. Every time. I’ve interacted with several people from corporate and two property managers—all of them have had high service mindsets and high integrity.
If you could own another rental anywhere in the country, where would you choose and why?
Santa Fe comes to mind immediately. It’s a destination that includes art, cuisine, culture, history and outdoor sports. There’s a lot packed in. Short flight, close enough to drive. Temperate climate. Great spot for a Texan to escape the heat. After that, it would be somewhere between Miami and Jupiter Florida—the coast is gorgeous. As you move north, it gets increasingly peaceful in terms of crowds.
What’s your favorite part about your own vacation home?
I love my house, and I actually love that I get to share it with more people. I feel like you get used to your own home in a way that makes you forget. This is a way where it’s fresh for everyone, including me.
I also love that I’m a part of a company that’s doing it a better way than the average PM company. There is a high standard. I admire that, and like the guests to have a great time.
Is there anything you’d like to say to other homeowners considering our platform?
AvantStay does what they say they’re going to do, so get started and see what happens. I’ve loved my experience and am adding another short term rental expressly for AvantStay because the experience is so great. I even had them weigh in on my personal remodeling and reno choices! They’re good people.
Challenge: Help a seasoned short-term rental owner receive more five-star reviews, become an Airbnb Superhost, and drive more bookings year-round.
Background
Robert purchased his Park City vacation property in 2019 and had been successfully managing it as a short-term rental. Despite bookings being steady, Robert couldn’t figure out how to encourage guests to leave reviews and become a Superhost on Airbnb.
During his time managing his vacation rental on his own, Robert found it difficult to devote more of his time to communicating with guests along with taking care of mid-stay requests. Robert doesn’t live in Park City full-time. Therefore, he would often have friends check in on his property or assist guests while out of town.
Robert soon realized he needed additional help to provide his guests with excellent service and around-the-clock support. He began looking for a vacation rental management company to partner with. Robert reached out to AvantStay when he learned about our in-app upgrades and experiences, on-the-ground local support teams, and Airbnb Superhost status.
Solution
During the onboarding process, Robert discussed his struggle with becoming an Airbnb Superhost and not always being able to go above and beyond for his guests. He was pleased to learn that AvantStay’s local support team in Park City is available 24/7. The team can take care of every guest issue and stock the home with personalized welcome packages before each stay. Robert was also excited about AvantStay’s in-app upgrades and experiences, allowing his guests to request in-home massages, fridge stockings, mid-stay cleanings, and more.
With the COVID-19 pandemic still present, cleaning also became difficult for Robert. His home now receives premium care from AvantStay’s housekeeping team. The team professionally cleans after every stay, adhering to CDC-grade cleaning standards and a premium 100-point checklist.
On the design front, AvantStay’s interior designers saw an opportunity to refresh Robert’s home. They purchased furnishings to create a cozy space for guests to warm up after a day of skiing or relax after hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, or exploring the town.
Property performance
Time with AvantStay: 13 months Occupancy rate: 67% Weekend occupancy rate: 77.5% Rental income: $96,850
Results
After a year of working with AvantStay, Robert is officially an Airbnb Superhost with a five-star rating overall, and five stars for both communication and cleanliness. His short-term rental now receives more positive reviews than ever, with guests frequently commenting on the welcome gifts, in-app upgrades, amenities, and design.
Overall, Robert’s Superhost status and positive reviews have helped Robert increase bookings, even during Park City’s off-season. Since partnering with AvantStay, Robert’s occupancy rate increased to 67%, surpassing the average rate of 47% for the market.
“10/10 would recommend AvantStay for any short-term rental owners,” said Robert. “Even being located in a seasonal destination, my property still has more bookings than ever. My neighbors keep asking me how I keep the place filled. I’m always excited to tell them about AvantStay.”
Interested in learning more about vacation rental management with AvantStay? Our team of experts is here to help. Unlock your vacation rental’s full value and get started with our team today.
