Are you looking to plan a vacation this November? You’re in luck! With a mild climate and plenty of fun things to do, the Oregon Coast is perfect for a fall getaway. The coast range blocks cold air dynamics from the east and helps to keep temperatures moderate at the beach. Temps usually range from the low 40s to the mid-50s, giving visitors a chance to enjoy outdoor activities like whale watching, crabbing, festivals, and more. Before you book your trip, check out some of our favorite things to do on the Oregon Coast in November.
Call one of our Vacation Specialists at (833)HI-AVANT for personalized assistance. We’ll help you find seasonal activities, attractions, and events to enjoy during your stay with AvantStay on the Oregon Coast.
How to Experience the Oregon Coast in November
1. Attend the Stormy Weather Arts Festival
Cannon Beach is home to over a dozen art galleries and hosts the annual Stormy Weather Arts Festival each November. One of the most popular events of the year, the festival features everything from artist demonstrations to gallery receptions over the course of one weekend. You can purchase work from local artists during a silent auction, enjoy live music at the spotlight concert, or admire stormy weather apparel at a fashion show.
2. Go Crabbing
Fall is a great time of year for sport crabbing on the Oregon Coast and almost always yields a successful trip. We suggest visiting Kelly’s Brighton Marina in Rockaway Beach where you can rent all the gear you’ll need, including crab pots and a boat. Kelly and his amazing crew are a lot of fun and provide first-timers with instructions and tips. They’ll show you how to properly cook and clean your catch, or clean your crab for you! Visit the marina store for crab pots, supplies, and snacks, then fish off the dock or from a boat on Nehalem Bay.
3. Whale Watching
Whale watching is popular year-round on the Oregon Coast, but there are about 200 gray whales that stay along the coast between June and November. That means you’ll have plenty of chances to see them! There are some wonderful places to spot whales in the area, including Ecola State Park and Cape Meares. When you visit us in November, grab your binoculars and head to Ecola State Park, Neahkahnie Mountain lookout or Cape Mears for the best chance to spy these awesome creatures!
Source: Embarcadero Resort
4. Storm Watching
November at the Oregon Coast almost certainly brings dramatic storms and rainy days. It’s the perfect time to hunker down with a good book, a crackling fire in the fireplace, and a view of crashing waves. When the winds have died down, bundle up for a walk on the beach and look for treasures brought ashore by the winter storms. Book a stay in one of our gorgeous oceanfront homes for the ideal storm-watching destination.
Purcell House by AvantStay
5. Get in the Holiday Spirit
If you’re planning to visit the Oregon Coast in late November, you’ll arrive just in time to experience various holiday parades, tree lighting ceremonies, and craft fairs. For starters, you won’t want to miss Haystack Holidays in Cannon Beach. Watch live performances of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, shop local on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, and make time to experience Cannon Beach’s charming downtown at night. The town of Seaside also hosts an annual Holiday Gift Fair as well as a festive Parade of Lights, both of which are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
Book Your Stay with AvantStay
Whether it’s a romantic fall getaway or a fun vacation with the whole family, Starfish Vacation Rentals offers unparalleled lodging on the Oregon Coast in November. Our properties in Cannon Beach, Rockaway Beach, Arch Cape, and Manzanita have everything you need to unwind. Book a stay of three nights or longer and you’ll receive our complimentary Welcome Package filled with coastal goodies plus access to our convenient concierge services.
So what are you waiting for? Check our availability and book your stay today! We look forward to having you.
Working from home is so last year! Going forward, we vow to Work from Vacation Home. Whether you’re looking for a Zoom background to make your coworkers jealous, or need a clear space for a clear mind, this round-up includes some of our favorite WF(V)H spots where you can disconnect to reconnect, and hit that mental refresh button.
1. Edendale – Los Angeles, CA
Looking for inspiration? Search no further than Edendale in this Hollywood Hills WFH space – where you’ll have access to a comfortable bedroom desk set-up, lightning fast WiFi, and plenty of lounging areas to take that well-deserved Siesta. When the work day’s all said and done, head to the must-see Hollywood sign for a sunset to remember.
2. Edgewater – Destin, FL
Where work meets water. This home is bringing nostalgia back! As a summer-camp worthy lake house with an extended dock for all those summertime hangs, Edgewater is the home you always dreamed of as a kid. Spend nights toasting s’mores with your crew, then engage in friendly competition with a healthy selection of games in the dedicated game room.
3. Bay Breeze – Newport Beach, CA
Breathe in, breathe out, and say hello to a cleansed mental palette, perfect for tackling work tasks – true to its name, Bay Breeze is great for fresh air and cool bayside breezes. This home comes with its own dock, paddleboards, fire pit, and gaming area, making it ideal for a decompression session after your 9-5.
4. Crystalline – Smoky Mountains, TN
Work from comfort in this quintessential mountain home, Crystalline, surrounded by the Great Smoky National Park. This stay comes with a desk right by the expansive wraparound patio, so you can get all of those Zoom calls out of the way with a view before you regroup with the crew for a drink or too. In Tennessee, it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere!
5. Juniper – Lake Tahoe, CA
This Taho(m)e is the perfect retreat from bustling city life. Our favorite part about Juniper is how the decor mimics the beauty of the surrounding forest. At the end of the workday, sip on wine and watch the sun grace the horizon as you cheers to a work day well done!
6. Encore – Park City, UT
ISO a laid-back mountain town home to work from? Meet Encore in Park City, UT. This is the home for those who are looking for a change of pace, and a new Zoom background. With relaxed dwellings and the smell of the mountain air, this stay makes for the perfect getaway to get through your to-do list with a clear, stress-free mind.
7. Moonshine – Coachella Valley, CA
This majestic home has the best for both work and play. Let Moonshine’s natural beauty put you in the right headspace for getting work done, then enjoy a nice cocktail after a great WFH day – we suggest working from the pool. Nestled in the natural desert setting of Southern California, you’ll also enjoy being a stone’s throw away from any of the many fests you may find yourself at while staying in Coachella Valley.
8. Barton – Austin, TX
Tackle your mountain-high inbox at this hilltop home, situated in the Austin, TX hill country. With a shaded outdoor desk and poolside chairs, you’ll find countless ways to work outside and soak in fresh air. Our personal favorite spot in Barton is on the upstairs deck, pictured above, where you’re guaranteed the best natural lighting for all those Google Meets you have.
9. Matador – Malibu, CA
The ultimate sanctuary to escape the bustling energy of the city and focus on those long-term projects. Matador is a bright and energetic space with multiple areas to lounge in. Head outside and take in the smells of the ocean. This work from home space doesn’t come with a desk per se, but you just can’t beat working on an oceanfront patio.
Work hard, play hard. We understand the basic, human need for a mental refresh – and we get that that usually comes with a change of your surroundings (a little vacation never hurt anyone, right?). In true AvantStay fashion, we’ve created a special Work-Friendly Space tag for all homes that support fast WiFi and remote workspaces. Download our app here and look for the tag to find your ideal WF(V)H space.
Hurricanes are a part of life for those who live near the water, and if you’re planning a vacation in one of the many areas that are prone to hurricane weather, it is important to be prepared. Here are some helpful tips to know before you travel to Key West or any other major hurricane hotspot.
When is Hurricane Season?
Hurricane Season begins in June and lasts through November. Peak season is mid-August to late October. There is an average of 6 hurricanes a year, approximately 3 are considered “major” in Hurricane Season.
Travel Insurance
As we all know, plans can change so we strongly advise guests to purchase travel insurance. Lucky for our customers, after completing a booking on the AvantStay website, guests will be given the option to add Allianz Insurance protection to their stay.
Vacation Hurricane Safety Tips & Preparation
Purchase Travel Insurance – Normally the insurance policy needs to be purchased prior to a storm being named. Travel insurance doesn’t ALWAYS protect you so ensure to ask as many questions as possible so that there is a clear understanding of the policy. (Also check the refund policies).
Hurricane Policies – Contact the establishment in which you are staying during a vacation to request details on their hurricane policies.
Download Health and Safety Apps – There are some apps such as “The Red Cross Hurricane App” that will allow you to track hurricanes and weather conditions in specific areas. Some apps will also give Storm Warning Alerts.
Keep a copy of all important documents – i.e. Itineraries, Driver’s Licenses, credit cards, and passport ID page in case the originals are lost or damaged.
Have an emergency plan in place – Ensure everyone in your travel party and maybe someone back home knows of it.
Have storm supplies handy – Of course, you do not want to pack a huge amount of things but if possible find a way to pack a few supplies that may come in handy if a storm arrives. Here are some items which are helpful to have:
First aid kit
Bottled water
Mini flashlights
Batteries
Rain gear
Blankets
Canned foods
Can opener
It is important to have “all of your ducks in a row” when traveling during such an unpredictable time. Although storms cannot be prevented, we can prepare ourselves as much as possible.
Remember safety for yourself, family and friends are most important.
The beautiful beach town of Manzanita offers a variety of fantastic restaurants to satisfy any palate. Enjoy dinner for two at a romantic bistro, pop into a coffee shop for a morning latte and scone on the way to the beach, or relax in the evening with a glass of pinot noir at a local winery.
We all know how tiring it can be to cook a meal every night of the week. If you don’t feel like doing a pile of dishes while you’re visiting the Oregon Coast, you’re in luck!
Whatever you’re craving, these Manzanita restaurants will have you coming back for more! Here are some of AvantStay’s favorites.
A Local’s Guide to the Best Dining in Manzanita
The Pacific Northwest dining culture is truly a foodie’s playground. Throughout our region, you’ll find creative chefs using the excellent local ingredients we have available here, with bountiful farm-to-table options to choose from. Many of the restaurants in Manzanita and other small beach towns along the Oregon Coast support this culture. In fact, did you know that there are practically no chain restaurants in Manzanita?
With such a wide variety of excellent options to choose from, we know it can be difficult to decide where to dig in first. To help you make the most of your visit, we asked some of our local team members for their tips on the best new restaurants in Manzanita. Check out their recommendations below!
Salmonberry Saloon
If you’re looking for dining with a view, head to Salmonberry Saloon. While technically not in Manzanita, it’s worth the 10 minute drive to Wheeler to enjoy the beautiful setting. When you visit Salmonberry Saloon, you’ll find outdoor seating on the deck that overlooks the water and, if you prefer indoor seating, a view from every table! It’s the perfect place to go to watch the activity in the bay like kayaks, paddleboarders, and fishing and crabbing boats going out to sea. Salmonberry Saloon offers a full bar with happy hour and appetizer menu. You’ll also find a lot of seafood options. Best of all, Salmonberry Saloon sources their ingredients locally and buys all produce, fish, and wine from local producers.
Source: Portland Monthly
Yolk
Located in the famed Blackbird location on Laneda Avenue that sadly closed down in recent years, Yolk has ushered in something new to the Manzanita breakfast scene. Perfect for a casual breakfast or lunch, Yolk offers excellent service, a friendly atmosphere, and a laidback setting. When you visit, you’ll have your choice of seating. For a quick trip before heading off to explore, sit at the convenient counter. Or, if you’d like to stay and linger over a cup of coffee, you may also sit down at a table.
When you visit, we recommend the egg scramble with fresh veggies and cheese. It is excellent and comes with a choice of housemade potatoes or salad greens. And, you won’t want to leave without trying a sweet treat. Yolk makes their own breads, muffins, pastries! In addition to their breakfast offerings, Yolk also has a lunch menu and is open until 2 pm.
Bread and Ocean
Bread and Ocean is another great staple of Manzanita dining. Traditionally, it’s best known as a bakery and deli that offers lunch options like salads, sandwiches, baked goods, and desserts. But, now it is offering something new! Bread and Ocean is also open on Friday and Saturday nights for dinner, serving freshly made comfort food. Yum!
In addition, Bread and Ocean recently expanded their seating options, so there’s more room to bring your whole crew. As in the past, Bread and Ocean is still a delicious and fresh deli counter for breakfast and lunch orders. You’ll find to-die-for fresh bread made onsite. Insider tip – fresh gluten-free bread and treats are available, too.
When you visit, know that it can be a long wait to order and it may take a while to get your food. So, come when you aren’t rushed and can enjoy a leisurely experience and a bit of people watching. Perfect for a lazy vacationer’s day!
Left Coast Siesta
In the mood for Mexican? Look no further than Left Coast Siesta. The relaxed atmosphere, large portions, and one-of-a-kind hot sauce bar make this place one of the best Manzanita restaurants. Enjoy a gourmet twist on Mexican comfort food like burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas, and tacos. Or, kick back and munch on chips with salsa and guacamole. Left Coast Siesta is open every day of the week except Monday.
The Mighty Thai
Get your Thai food fix at this authentic spot tucked away in an inconspicuous location on the outskirts of Manzanita. Enjoy traditional Thai offerings including pad Thai, pad basil, three varieties of curry, and even some Vietnamese options like the Mighty Pho. Vegetarians will love the veggie-forward menu including pad spicy eggplant and avocado fried rice.
Neah-Kah-Nie Bistro
Perfect for date night, Neah-Kah-Nie Bistro offers a romantic atmosphere that makes dinner on the Coast even more special. The Bistro menu features everything from appetizers and small plates to rotating dinner specials. If available, order the fresh Cajun-spiced Dover Sole with creamy goat cheese polenta and Oregon Bay shrimp. It’s absolutely delicious!
Insider tip: if you’re planning to visit this popular Manzanita restaurant, we recommend making reservations in advance.
San Dune Pub
Recently named one of the top 10 best bars outside of Portland by Thrillist, this bare-bones pub doesn’t rely on overstated decor or complex cocktails. Order one of their 17 beers on draft and get cozy around the stone fireplaces while listening to some of Oregon’s best live music. Sports fans can enjoy their favorite game on one of the five big-screen TVs, or check out the charming back patio. Offering an eclectic food menu, San Dune Pub is famous for their Tuesday night baby back rib special. You can also try the smoked salmon chowder or the oyster burger for a delicious taste of something different.
The Winery at Manzanita
Spend your evening sipping a locally-made wine in the romantic courtyard of this newly established winery. The Winery at Manzanita offers a fantastic ambiance and it’s a great place to sit outside and sip a glass of wine. At the Winery at Manzanita, guests are encouraged to roast s’mores over outdoor fire pits or enjoy turkey and avocado sandwiches, yam and kale wraps, and grass-fed burgers for dinner. (If the weather is less than ideal, try different wine varietals in the cedar-shingled tasting room.) Stop by in the morning to take in the ocean view from the second-floor patio over an Oregon-roasted cup of coffee and a pastry or breakfast sandwich.
MacGregors Whiskey Bar
Located just three blocks from the beach, MacGregor’s Whiskey Bar offers an exceptional selection of whiskeys from around the world and an incredible food and cocktail menu to match! Highlights include the charcuterie boards, of which they have five, and their delicious desserts. MacGregor’s offers outdoor seating with a fire pit, and they are open a bit later than most restaurants in town. It’s the perfect place to visit for a late-night drink!
Searching for Local Goods to Use in Cooking at Home?
Our area is also rich with options for locally sourced produce, meats, and more. If you’d like to cook a fresh meal at home, or in one of our Oregon Coast vacation rentals during your Manzanita vacation, consider visiting The Little Apple Grocery and Deli or the Summer Farmer’s Market on Friday nights, 5-8 pm. Both places offer great local coastal products, food, and a true taste of the Oregon Coast.
Experience the Best of Oregon Coast Dining and Stay with AvantStay
If you’re searching for a secluded hideaway on the Oregon Coast, our Manzanita vacation rentals have just what you need. You can spend the day indulging, then return to a peaceful home-away-from-home with all the amenities you’re used to. Comfortable bedrooms, spacious living areas, and spectacular views are just some of the things you’ll enjoy during your stay. We look forward to having you!
If you can believe it, these items truly were left at our homes. We’re happy to report that most of them were claimed and returned to their owners – even the family dog that we absolutely got emotionally attached to.
Here’s all the tea on these (un)forgettable items, straight from the source (our area managers).
Tesla
Yeah, this one surprised us too. These vacationers left their Tessie in the garage of one of our vacation homes for over two weeks because they lost their keys. Unfortunately, they actually did come back for it.
Single Sock
No, the washing machine didn’t eat the other one. Places we’ve found them: the drawer, in between the mattress, on the stairs. We’ve found so many socks in so many places we could honestly rebrand as a clothing accessory store.
The Family Dog
For what it’s worth, he was a very good boy. When a family vacation came to an end, they packed up their two cars to hit the road. The guests in the first car thought the guests in the second car had the dog—and vice versa. The poor pup was left behind. Our team quickly notified the guests and reunited them with their furry family member.
Pull Up Bar Station
Because the grind doesn’t stop on vacay. This item was literally left in the front yard of one of our homes. We don’t know the full story, but we’re oh-so curious as to how they could forget such a large item behind and hope they’re enjoying swoll season wherever they are now.
Phone Charger
One of the most commonly left behind items: the phone charger. Honestly, if your group doesn’t leave at least one of these behind we’ll be shocked. From iPhones to Androids and even flip phones, our area managers rescue enough chargers to power a small city.
MacBook Pro
Personally, we wish they’d left the new AirPods instead. One guest left their MacBook Pro in a desk drawer at one of our homes and didn’t even realize they had left it behind. We ended up overnighting it to them when we found it so that they could clock in for work the next day.
“Back Massager“
It definitely massages…something. This item (amongst others of its kind) was found in a shoebox under the bed. We should also mention there was a bonus pregnancy test included in the box.
Wedding Ring
Trouble in paradise, huh? Jewelry is one of the most commonly left behind items. Whether you’re taking it off to wash your hands or taking it off before bed, be sure to grab your ring to avoid any awkward conversations with your partner when you get home.
Family Portrait
Who leaves a family portrait behind? Especially a family this familiar. We’re not really sure why someone would travel with a framed copy of this, but the back is signed by “Jim.” So if you’re looking for a nice family photo to add to your office, as we all are, take a bet on this one.
Let this be a cautionary tale to always double-check that you’ve grabbed your belongings before you check out of one of our vacation homes! We’ll always reach out if we find your things, but we have a feeling you want to avoid being the main character in a story like the Tesla’s.
Step into the world of snowbird rentals for a cozy winter escape. Our guide reveals the best seasonal vacation homes and offers handy snowbird travel tips. Get ready for affordable snowbird getaways and a stress-free winter retreat.
Key West, FL
Key West’s unique charm and mild winter climate make it an ideal destination for snowbird monthly vacation rentals. With a laid-back atmosphere and a variety of cozy accommodations, this island paradise beckons snowbirds seeking a warm escape. Embrace the vibrant culture, water sports, and delightful dining options that make Key West a standout choice for extended stays.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Fort Lauderdale’s sunny shores and cultural attractions offer a perfect blend for snowbird getaways. The city boasts a variety of monthly vacation rentals, from beachfront condos to upscale apartments, accommodating a range of preferences and budgets. Snowbirds can revel in the warm weather and explore the city’s artistic and recreational offerings while enjoying the comforts of their seasonal home.
Palm Springs, CA
Nestled in the California desert, Palm Springs is a haven for snowbird monthly vacation rentals. Its winter climate is second to none, and the region features a wide array of seasonal homes, perfect for a relaxing retreat. Snowbirds can enjoy stunning mountain vistas, golf courses, and explore the area’s mid-century modern architecture, creating an ideal backdrop for an extended winter stay.
Coachella Valley, CA
Adjacent to Palm Springs, Coachella Valley draws snowbirds with its proximity to the famed Coachella Music Festival, while also offering a peaceful desert lifestyle. Monthly rentals in this region provide the perfect balance between joining the festival excitement and enjoying the tranquil desert surroundings, making it a unique and appealing option for seasonal stays.
Destin, FL
Destin, along with the neighboring Emerald Coast/30A, is a prime destination for snowbird monthly vacation rentals. Its stunning white-sand beaches and emerald waters create a serene backdrop for extended stays. Snowbirds can find a variety of accommodations, from beachfront condos to cozy cottages, allowing them to fully embrace the Gulf Coast lifestyle and its plethora of water activities.
Joshua Tree, CA
Snowbirds looking for a unique desert experience will find Joshua Tree to be an enchanting choice for monthly vacation rentals. The region’s distinctive landscape, known for its striking rock formations and desert flora, provides an extraordinary backdrop for a peaceful winter retreat. With a range of cozy desert homes available for rent, snowbirds can explore the area’s national park, go stargazing, and soak in the artistic inspiration that this desert gem offers.
Maui, HI
Maui, one of Hawaii’s most popular islands, offers an enticing mix of natural beauty and luxury vacation rentals, making it an excellent choice for snowbirds. From upscale condos to beachfront villas, the island caters to various tastes and budgets. Snowbirds can savor the tropical paradise, indulge in water sports, and immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture, ensuring a memorable and comfortable winter stay.
Oahu, HI
Oahu, the heart of Hawaii, is a bustling yet picturesque island with a wide range of snowbird monthly vacation rentals. Snowbirds can enjoy the best of both worlds by exploring the vibrant city life of Honolulu and relaxing on the island’s serene beaches, all within easy reach of their extended stay accommodations. The island’s rich culture, diverse landscapes, and inviting atmosphere make Oahu an attractive destination for winter getaways.
San Diego, CA
With its year-round pleasant climate, San Diego is a top choice for snowbird rentals. The city boasts an array of comfortable monthly accommodations, including apartments, condos, and beachfront properties. Snowbirds can revel in the diverse neighborhoods, coastal beauty, cultural attractions, and an abundance of outdoor activities, ensuring a rewarding and rejuvenating winter escape.
Scottsdale, AZ
Scottsdale, in the heart of the Arizona desert, offers an oasis of warmth and luxury for snowbird monthly vacation rentals. The city’s winter climate is inviting, and it features numerous golf courses and upscale accommodations, making it a haven for those seeking a relaxing escape. Snowbirds can explore the city’s art scene, indulge in outdoor pursuits, and embrace the desert lifestyle while enjoying a comfortable and well-appointed seasonal home.
There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a company to help manage your vacation rental. A great vacation rental property manager will act as your trusted partner and go above and beyond to care for your home and maximize your income. These five signs ensure you’re dealing with a top property management company that will prioritize you and your home’s best interests.
1. They have a good reputation
Researching vacation rental property managers online should be your first step in finding your perfect match. Read reviews on Google, Better Business Bureau, Yelp, and Trustpilot to get a sense of a company’s brand reputation and how they respond to any negative feedback.
You can even go straight to the source and ask management companies for referrals from current homeowners. Also, do some digging into Net Promoter Scores (NPS) which measure how likely customers are to recommend a brand or service. The average NPS score for the hospitality industry is 53, and AvantStay outperforms with a guest NPS of 73 and an owner NPS of 64.
2. They’re an expert in your local market
A great vacation rental manager should be an expert in all aspects of your local market. Be sure to ask about other vacation rentals they manage in your area and how they fare against competition, how they optimize for seasonal trends, and how they comply with local regulations.
With AvantStay, our team of analysts identifies the unique characteristics of your home mapped against expected performance and the overall market, and reviews pricing daily to ensure your home is priced to book.
We combine our home-specific approach based on size, location, amenities, and everything in between with a data-driven process and dynamic pricing model that leverages market intel, real-time competitive pricing, and forward-looking demand models.
In addition, our fully dedicated permitting and tax professionals maintain good relationships with local jurisdictions so your home is always compliant.
3. They offer a wide range of management services
A vacation rental property management company shouldn’t be just another platform to list your home, they should act as a partner that takes the lead on all aspects of managing and caring for your property. A great vacation rental property manager should provide all of the following services (don’t settle for anything less!):
Revenue management: Our dynamic pricing model uses 70+ “seasons” segmented by day of the week, seasonal fluctuations, holidays, and events, and adjusts pricing daily, optimizing your revenue and occupancy.
Listings and distribution: We professionally photograph your home and craft a listing that optimizes search and conversion, driving reach across 65+ OTAs.
Policy and compliance support: Our Policy and Risk team handles all administrative duties related to initial permitting and renewals of short-term rental permits, home inspections, HOA and government relations, and occupancy taxes.
Premium home care: Our local operations teams manage maintenance, upkeep, surveillance, and CDC-grade housekeeping. We also perform inspections between each guest stay to check for cleanliness and guest readiness.
First-class guest care: AvantStay guests have access to 24/7 live support via SMS, email, or phone, and we troubleshoot every issue to ensure they are well-cared for. Guests can also take advantage of our in-app upgrades and experiences to book a private chef, request fridge stocking, schedule mid-stay cleans, and more!
4. They’re always transparent
Before you sign a contract with a vacation rental manager, you should have a complete understanding of the services included in your agreement and any owner expenses. Be sure to ask about the terms and conditions of your contract. Can you end your contract early if the company isn’t performing well or isn’t delivering on the promised services? Know your outs and any opportunities for negotiation.
When it comes to finances, you should always know what to expect in your owner statement. If you ever find a surprise or random fees, it might be time to find a new vacation rental manager.
5. They make communication easy
It should never be a struggle to get in touch with your vacation rental property manager. A great management company should be easy to communicate with during all stages of your journey, from discovery to onboarding and ongoing home management.
With AvantStay, you’ll always have three points of contact: an Owner Experience Manager, a local Area Manager, and a Regional Manager. That way, there’s always someone to go to and quick response times. Our local teams are also available 24/7 for dispatch to your home, should any issues arise.
In addition, our tech-enabled platform gives you full visibility and puts you in control. Our proprietary tech suite provides property insights, work order management visibility, and better guest management and home protection. We’re continuing to innovate with more on the way!
Partner with the premier vacation rental manager
Your search for a great vacation rental property manager stops here. Why not partner with the fastest-growing and top-rated hospitality brand in the industry?
AvantStay offers end-to-end, flexible management programs to give you peace of mind. From financials to design to maintenance, we take care of your home as if it were our own. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management, and activates an elevated guest experience. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and relax—it’s that simple.
The winter months have officially arrived, and quickly transitioning your home from trick-or-treat friendly to family feast ready can be stressful. Given that this is the time of year when you should be winding down, opening up your doors to host an event can be overwhelming. So why not open up ours?
Elevate your holidays by hosting your plans in an AvantStay vacation home – where you can leave the prep and cleanup to us, so you can focus on the personal touches that make entertaining your guests worth it! Whether you’re hosting Friendsgiving, Christmas dinner, or ringing in the New Year with your loved ones, we’ve got you covered with 15 tips that are sure to crown you the hostess with the mostest.
1. Co-host with a friend or close family member
You don’t have to do it all! Take a breather knowing that you have help from a trusted co-host who can help split and delegate tasks with you. Is one of you a better baker than the other? One has a better eye for design and decoration? There are no hard rules here, but simply knowing that someone has your back can relieve the pressure of tackling a holiday party on your own.
2. Lean on the AvantStay app
Our app was designed to cater to all your vacation needs. With upgrades and experiences from stocking your fridge before your arrival, mid-stay cleans, itinerary planning, and even coordinating a private bartender or private chef for you, we’ve got you covered.
3. Stay organized and plan ahead
This one may seem obvious, but being proactive and maintaining a checklist minimizes surprises and helps to ensure that nothing gets forgotten. If you’re hosting a potluck, keep a running list of what everyone is bringing to avoid duplicates and/or missing pieces. Be sure to confirm your guests, reinforce dates and times, and keep a cooking schedule on hand. This is particularly true for Friendsgiving since there’s no official date for this “holiday.”
4. Designate rooms for each guest
When planning for an overnight stay, bypass the last-minute scrambling by assigning everyone rooms before check-in. Fortunately, we have a “choose your room” feature in our app where you and your added guests can effortlessly see all rooms and beds and reserve your pick. From the bookings tab, simply locate your reservation, select “choose rooms” under the Guests and Rooms section, and then swipe through each room while adding a name to each room.
5. Curate your music just right
Once you’ve happily arrived, it’s time to personalize your vacation home to your ideal vibe. One of the most important ways to set the mood is with the perfect album or playlist. Select AvantStay homes, like Chicory, are vinyl-ready with record players waiting for you. If you prefer more of a mix, create a collaborative playlist on your favorite streaming platform. And if you’re feeling especially adventurous, there are plenty of premade playlists out there eager to be set on shuffle.
6. Ambience is everything
Musical stimulation is only one piece of the puzzle which is ambience. Think of a cozily lit fireplace, perfectly dimmed mood lighting, or diversifying each and every space for a different activity. You can make your guests feel welcome by ensuring that they feel right at home. This is extremely easy to do at all of our vacation homes because they are designed by professional (award-winning!) interior designers rather than just anyone.
7. Entertainment for all
What’s your preference? Playing a game, watching a movie in a home theater, or cozying up by an outdoor firepit? No need to choose just one! Our homes are set up with all the amenities to ensure that there will never be a moment of boredom between the feast and festivities.
8. Have a signature something
Think signature party favor, activity, centerpieces, or even themes! Having an on-brand something that your guests associate with your events (and therefore get excited for) is always a win.
9. All the libations for a memorable celebration
What celebration is complete without a cocktail or mocktail station? Our homes allow you to easily create your own self-serve bar with features like wine coolers, beverage stations, and wet bars like Chateau Syrah’s. Take it a step further by providing a menu of go-to recipes for your guests! Put a spin on classic cocktails by creating a naming convention around the holiday theme such as ‘Cold Turkey’ or ‘Bloody Merry.’ We’ve even compiled some of our favorite tequila recipes for you.
10. Snacks, Snacks, Snacks!
As everyone gathers and mingles, it’s always a great idea to have finger foods ready to go. From a charcuterie board to the all-time favorite chip bowl, we’ve got gourmet kitchens (that can be fully stocked upon request) ready to handle whatever gets your guests’ mouths watering.
11. Clean as you cook
One of the best pieces of advice any host or home cook has passed down is “clean as you cook.” In a home like Castle Rock, with not one, but two dishwashers at your disposal, we make it easy to tackle the cleanup after a feast of any kind.
12. Create new traditions
Here’s your chance to get really creative. Is there an activity that brings you overwhelming joy? Maybe it’s taking an annual road trip, doing a white elephant gift exchange, or baking a holiday treat together. Choose something that not only sounds fun to you but will keep your guests looking forward to your hosted events in the future – the power is in your hands. Your tradition could even become experiencing the holidays in a different AvantStay home every year!
13. Document all the moments
It’s easy to get so caught up in the holiday hustle and bustle that you don’t take a minute to be present and capture the moments. Whether you provide disposable cameras to your guests, set up a photo station, or take advantage of the photo booth we already have at The Monkey Tree Hotel, don’t be afraid to pause and pose. Let the memories serve as a reminder of what an amazing time you had on your group trip.
14. Treat yourself to some self-care
Once it’s all said and done, take a pause. Don’t get so caught up in catering to your guests that you end up neglecting yourself. Use our app to book an in-home massage, or you can take a moment to de-stress in an in-home sauna like Nightstar’s. Some other ways to relax in our homes include sleeping in extra late, taking a bubble bath, or curling up on the couch to binge-watch your favorite holiday sitcom episodes. Tend to your needs, because at the end of the day, it’s meant to be a vacation for you as well.
When it comes to visiting the American South it doesn’t get any better or more authentic than Charleston, South Carolina. Flanked by barrier islands, beaches, palmetto palms, and ancient live oaks, Charleston is one of the most historic cities in America while also serving up thriving modern art, culture, foodie, music, and festival scene.
For visitors and residents alike there’s a constant and endlessly evolving list of fun things to do year-round. Architecture connoisseurs will marvel at the impeccably-preserved historic homes along King Street and “Rainbow Row”. History buffs can travel back in time at The Charleston Museum and house museums like Boone Hall Plantation to learn about America’s Antebellum era or visit historic sites like Fort Sumter National Monument where America’s Civil War began. Culinary aficionados will relish in the city’s famous Southern cuisine dished out by some of the most acclaimed chefs in the USA feasting on grouper, grits, fried green tomatoes, and hush puppies.
Outside of downtown, the Charleston area is also an oasis of adventure and natural history. Nearby Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island are two of the best places on America’s East Coast to surf and swim in the Atlantic Ocean, fly a kite, or work on your tan. Watersports enthusiasts can deep-sea fish, jet ski, paddleboard, charter a sailboat, or birdwatch from a kayak. And if golf or tennis are your things, South Carolina’s “Holy City” never runs short on options with 17 championship golf courses within a short drive of downtown, several of which are right on the ocean rivaling Pebble Beach.
There’s no ideal time to visit Charleston SC. It’s a little hot and humid in the summer; a little cool in the winter. But the city’s consistently temperate climate makes it the perfect place to visit year-round. So, whenever you’re planning on passing through here are 32 of the best things to do while you’re in town to make sure that you savor everything that one of America’s most historic and vibrant cities has to offer.
1. The Battery
The Battery is historic Charleston’s southernmost point and one of the city’s most iconic and photographed spots adjacent to White Point Garden near the end of King Street that runs through the center of the city. Originally built as a defensive seawall, it’s now a pedestrian promenade with the ocean on one side and some of the city’s most stunning and historic homes on the other.
Whenever you’re in Charleston, it’s the perfect location to watch the sunrise or sunset, read a book, take an after dinner walking tour, or just feel the Charleston Harbor breezes on your face.
2. French Quarter
Originally settled by French Huguenots in the 1680s, the French Quarter is Charleston’s most historic and romantic neighborhood, wedged into the southeast corner of the city. The dozens of churches dating back to the Huguenots’ arrival are interspersed with many of Charleston’s top galleries and restaurants, making it the center of the city’s arts and foodie scene.
With local attractions and landmarks like Waterfront Park, The Doc Street Theater, the Charleston City Market, the South Carolina Historical Society, and the Old Slave Mart Museum, you could easily spend an entire day here and not run out of things to see or do.
3. Joe Riley Waterfront Park
12-acre Waterfront Park is Charleston’s largest open space and one of the most visited parks in South Carolina. It’s also its most photographed—with breathtaking views of the Lowcountry sunrises and sunsets over the Cooper River, a waterfront esplanade, and the iconic Pineapple Fountain, an elaborate, multi-tiered water feature in the shape of its namesake fruit.
Waterfront Park also has walking trails, public gardens, and two public piers perfect for fishing or relaxing that offer stunning views of the Ravenel Bridge, Fort Sumter National Monument, and Charleston Harbor. For families traveling with kids, Waterfront Park’s two fountains are the perfect spot to cool off on hot summer days. If you’re into urban green space don’t miss Marion Square and White Point Garden parks while you’re in town either.
4. Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon
Charleston’s Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon has had more lives than most cats, having served originally as a prison during the American Revolution and eventually also as a customs house, public market, and meeting house over the past 250 years.
Architecturally and historically it’s an iconic Charleston landmark steeped in South Carolina’s past and is an essential part of almost every walking tour and carriage tour of the city. The top two floors feature exhibits where you can take a self-guided tour, and make sure not to miss the guided tour of the dungeon in the cellar.
5. Old Slave Mart Museum
Charleston is at once both a powerful and painful symbol of America’s history. The city played a key role in the country’s settlement, the American Revolution, and the writing of the Constitution. But it was also one of the epicenters of America’s slave trade.
The Old Slave Mart Museum in Charleston’s French Quarter is an emotional and thought-provoking reminder of that history both good and bad, featuring exhibits, informative displays, and staff who can trace their own histories back to Charleston’s original slave population.
6. Explore Gullah-Geechee Culture
During South Carolina’s Colonial era, many enslaved Africans were isolated on islands and coastal plantations and as a result developed their own customs and culture, many of which still exist today.
One of the most celebrated of these is the Gullah-Geechee, who over time developed their own art, traditions, recipes, and even their own language. Learning about Gullah-Geechee culture is essential to understanding Charleston’s place in American history so don’t miss out on one of the many Gullah tours in Charleston that will take you back in time to explore their roots through some of Charleston’s most historic landmarks like the Old Jail, the Philip Simmons House, and the Slave & Free Blacks Cemetery at Bethel United Church.
7. Charleston City Market
The cultural heart of Charleston and one of the oldest public markets in America, the Charleston City Market is home to more than 300 pop-up vendors serving up arts and crafts, jewelry, local food, and fresh farm-to-table fruits, vegetables, and meat after first opening its doors in the 1790s.
The market spans four downtown Charleston city blocks in the French Quarter and is nestled inside several architecturally significant brick buildings that are a sight to behold in their own right. There’s zero chance you’ll leave here with your stomach empty or something memorable to bring back home, and definitely don’t miss checking out the sweetgrass baskets which Charleston’s Gullah-Geechee artisans have been weaving for more than 300 years.
8. Hit The Beach
One of the best parts about historic Charleston is that you can get in your car and drive in any direction south or east of the city and have your toes in the sand of some of the best Atlantic Coast beaches in the Southeast in less than an hour.
Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island are two of the most scenic and popular with both locals and visitors. But don’t miss out on Bull Island, Kiawah Island, and the Isle of Palms either which are a little further away but worth every minute of the drive since you’ll have more of the sun and sand to yourself and endless fun things to do.
9. Angel Oak
Live oaks are to South Carolina what redwoods are to California—ancient, iconic, and awe-inspiring. And Angel Oak on John’s Island is the granddaddy of them all, estimated to be more than 400 years old, and one of the largest live oaks in the South at 67’ high and 28’ wide at the base.
Angel Oak Tree Park where this magnificent tree is located is a scenic 25-minute drive from downtown Charleston across the Ashley River and also offers a picnic area and a gift shop and there’s no admission charge. If you’re a photographer of any level Angel Oak is a must-shoot.
10. Nathaniel Russell House
Charleston’s colorful and ornate Antebellum (pre-Civil War) architecture has always been one of the city’s main draws for visitors and residents alike. So, if you’re into history, architecture, design, or photography, it doesn’t get more iconic than the Nathaniel Russell House.
Russell was a successful slave trader and merchant who came to Charleston in the late 1700s and with his fortune built one of the city’s most magnificent homes at the time along Meeting Street in 1808. Today, his house is considered to be one of the finest examples of Neoclassical architecture in the South. Along with a tour here don’t miss the Aiken-Rhett House Museum nearby.
11. Rainbow Row
Every city has one street that every visitor wants to photograph. In Charleston that street is Rainbow Row, just a few blocks from Waterfront Park. Originally built in 1740 by merchants who ran stores on the ground floor and lived above them, this cluster of 13 pastel pink, yellow, purple, and blue houses along East Bay Street is today a Mecca for historic architecture lovers.
The origin of Rainbow Row is still debated. Some believe that the homes were painted brightly for drunk sailors to find their way home at night. Another theory is that each color served as a calling card for what each store was selling. Either way, you can’t come to Charleston without stopping at Rainbow Row for some photographs or a selfie.
12. The Charleston Museum
South Carolina’s Lowcountry around Charleston has been at the center of American history since the nation’s earliest roots and epitomizes the melting pot of cultures, customs, religions, and backgrounds that makes the United States the diverse democracy it is.
The Charleston Museum, the oldest museum in the U.S. founded in 1773, pays tribute to South Carolina’s eclectic and influential past through rotating and permanent exhibits, collections, educational programs, and events housed in several historic buildings including Lowcountry History Hall, The Armory, and the Bunting Natural History Gallery.
13. Gibbes Museum of Art
If you talk to any Charleston local, one of the first things they’ll tell you about their city is that it’s had one of America’s best under-the-radar, up-and-coming arts scenes for decades—despite being better known for its historic sites, beaches, and sightseeing.
In addition to the dozens of downtown boutique galleries, the Gibbes Museum of Art is where Charleston’s art scene begins and ends. The Museum houses several permanent collections that feature 18th and 19th-century American paintings as well as the Charleston Renaissance along with regularly rotating exhibits showcasing the city’s vibrant contemporary art.
14. Take A Carriage Tour Of Downtown Charleston
Like touring New York City’s Central Park in a horse and buggy, stepping back in time and taking an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage ride around historic Charleston’s 30-block downtown is one of the most relaxing ways to experience everything the city has to offer. Carriage tours are offered all day as well as at night with knowledgeable guides who can tell you all about the history of Charleston’s most important historic and colorful landmarks, historic homes, parks, gardens, streets, and museums. For couples or honeymooners, it’s also hard to beat a moonlight carriage ride when it comes to romance. Charleston’s central intersection of King Street and Market Street is a great place to start.
15. Downtown Charleston On Foot
If you prefer hoofing it on your own for exercise and taking things at your own pace instead of a horse-drawn carriage tour, one of Charleston’s most beloved pastimes is simply walking around. At any time of year, you’ll always see people meandering around downtown Charleston’s historic streets or just standing on the corner taking in the historic homes and the views up and down King Street, Market Street, and Meeting Street.
There are several self-guided walking tours that are available online if you search for “Charleston self-guided walking tours” as well as various organized, guided walking tours that will take you to all of downtown Charleston’s top historic sites and points of interest.
16. Restaurant Walk
You can’t visit Charleston without an appetite. The city’s long been one of the South’s epicenters for BBQ and Lowcountry cuisine and has also recently put itself on the map as one of America’s up-and-coming foodie hotspots with dozens of acclaimed chefs from New York and Chicago making the dash for warmer weather and Southern hospitality.
So, after a long day on the water or for no other reason than tantalizing your tastebuds, take the time to savor Charleston’s wide array of restaurants on foot which range from food trucks to fancy French bistros serving everything from fresh fish and Southern fried chicken to shrimp and grits and fried oysters. Your taste buds will thank you.
17. Ravenel Bridge
Once you’ve sampled Charleston’s tantalizing culinary range if you’re tempted to work off any of those extra calories the Ravenel Bridge over the Cooper River from downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant is one of the best places in the city to take a long walk, run, or bike ride.
With a dedicated 6-mile roundtrip pedestrian and bike section offering unparalleled views of downtown Charleston and the surrounding Lowcountry and barrier islands, Ravenel Bridge is also an architectural and engineering marvel to behold and the third longest cable-stayed bridge in the Western Hemisphere.
18. Haunted Charleston
Second to being one of America’s most romantic and charming cities, Charleston is also renowned for being one of the country’s most haunted and mysterious—given its tumultuous 300-year history through the American Revolution, the Civil War, and as an epicenter of America’s slave trade.
So, if you fancy the paranormal don’t miss out on one of Charleston’s famous hair-raising ghost tours where you can learn about the Charleston area’s darker side including ghost pirates, poltergeists, and spooky, supernatural landmarks. To get your hair really standing up on your neck, take one of these tours at night under a full moon.
19. Get Out On The Water
No visit to Charleston and Lowcountry South Carolina would be complete without getting out on the water if watersports are your passion. There’s literally nothing you can’t do here when it comes to the ocean, rivers, and aquatic adventure and it’s impossible to run out of fun things to do.
Charter a deep-sea fishing boat and head out into the open ocean to try your luck catching a trophy marlin or mahi mahi. Or stay closer to shore to jig for triggerfish and red snapper. For those who prefer self-locomotion to power boats, you’ll also find endless opportunities to paddleboard, kayak, sail, or kite surf in the hundreds of miles of rivers, creeks, and wetlands in every direction outside of downtown Charleston.
20. Charleston Harbor Sightseeing Tour
It’s hard for most visitors to decide what’s more impressive about Charleston’s Harbor: its scale and size, its historical significance, or its sheer beauty hemmed in by beaches and barrier islands leading out to the Atlantic Ocean.
A harbor sightseeing tour on a boat like the Carolina Belle Ferry is the best way for you to decide for yourself, while also taking in some of the best views of downtown Charleston from the water. Usually lasting 1 ½ hours, you’ll also get up-front-and-personal views of some of Charleston’s other iconic landmarks like Fort Sumter National Monument, the USS Yorktown, and the Ravenel Bridge.
21. H.L. Hunley Submarine
Charleston’s place in America’s Civil War is as embedded in the city’s history as its arts, culture, and food. So, for U.S. and history aficionados, a visit to see the H.L Hunley Submarine should be on every Charleston bucket list.
A former confederate submarine turned exhibit and educational experience, the Hunley has the distinction of being the first submarine to ever successfully sink an enemy (Union) ship during wartime. Today, it’s one of the best places in the South for families and kids to learn about South Carolina’s role in the Civil War as well as explore nautical history. Located in North Charleston, it’s a short trip from the peninsula.
22. Caw Caw Interpretive Center
It’s impossible to visit Charleston and South Carolina’s Lowcountry without being captivated by its birds and wildlife. So, if you’re looking to get some time outdoors and immerse yourself in nature, the Caw Caw Interpretive Center in Ravenel 10 minutes from downtown Charleston is a must-visit.
Managed as a low-impact wildlife preserve, Caw Caw was once home to rice plantations carved from cypress swamps and is now an interpretive park featuring six miles of nature trails with exhibits, elevated boardwalks through wetlands, birding lookout spots, and environmental and cultural programs for kids.
23. Magnolia Plantation And Gardens
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is Charleston’s most historic and visited plantation in addition to Drayton Hall and Boone Hall Plantation—nearly 400 years old and the oldest public garden in the USA, having opened its doors to visitors back in 1870.
Though Southern plantations are rightly known for their connection with slavery, they also played an outsized role in America’s economic development and helped shape the U.S. into the global power it is today. Magnolia Plantation’s 464 acres and buildings give visitors a rare opportunity to experience what plantation life was like, the impact plantations had on American politics and the economy, and also includes a maze, a small zoo, a conservatory, a cafe, and a theatre where visitors can watch a 30-minute film about the plantation’s history.
24. The Charleston Tea Garden
There are hundreds of tea gardens in the world—mostly in Asia, Africa, and South America. But there’s only one in America like the Charleston Tea Garden. So, if you’re a tea lover or simply want to spend some time outside while visiting the Charleston area and immersing yourself in the Lowcountry, spend a few hours wandering through Charleston Tea Garden’s hundreds of thousands of tea plants surrounded by ancient live oaks and cypress swamps.
Located on Wadmalaw Islands 20 minutes from downtown Charleston, the Charleston Tea Garden also offers educational programs to learn about the tea-making process, a gift shop, a trolley tour—and, of course, tea.
25. Charleston Fossil Adventures
If you’re still looking for more things to do outside—especially if you’re coming to visit the Charleston area with kids and need something fun and unique to keep them occupied—check out Charleston Fossil Adventures.
Regularly voted the top outdoor activity in Charleston, kids are immersed in Lowcountry paleontology through a variety of fossil hunts and interactive programs and have the chance to discover ancient shark teeth, bones, and hunt for other hidden natural treasures that they can take home with them all while learning about South Carolina’s pre-historic past.
26. Charleston Fun Park
Speaking of kids, if they need more exhilaration during the day while you gear up for your Charleston Harbor sunset tour and a night out restaurant hopping, don’t pass up the chance to tire them out at Charleston Fun Park.
Featuring a high-speed go-kart track, 36 holes of mini-golf, an outdoor axe throwing arena, bumper cars, a full arcade, and a virtual reality roller coaster—plus classic boardwalk, theme park food like hot dogs, soft pretzels, and ice cream (and adult beverages for parents)—Charleston Fun Park definitely lives up to its reputation as one of the city’s most exciting tourist attractions and its motto that “The Party Starts Here”.
27. Sullivan’s Island
Historic Charleston is revered as one of the USA’s most romantic cities surrounded by islands. And arguably the most beautiful and pristine of them all is Sullivan’s Island located 20 minutes east of downtown Charleston since the locals in this small oceanfront town have vowed to keep it that way.
Sullivan’s Island doesn’t have any major hotel chains or resorts and is governed by a strict preservation plan so development is limited, the beaches are pristine, and the vibe is distinctly local. For all its effort to remain low key, however, Sullivan’s Island boasts a thriving restaurant scene with everything from pubs to fine dining as well as all the watersports offerings like kayaking and jet skiing that you can handle.
28. Cypress Gardens
Ancient cypress swamps are synonymous with South Carolina’s Lowcountry outside of downtown Charleston. And there’s no better place to immerse yourself in what these magnificent wetlands look and feel like than Cypress Gardens.
Visitors can spend the day exploring the historic gardens, kayaking, visiting the Butterfly House, or taking a swamp boat ride through miles of tall bald cypress and tupelo trees mirrored in the dark, black water looking for birds and turtles—and avoiding the alligators!
29. Fort Sumter National Monument
Few places hold a more important place in American history than Fort Sumter National Monument, an island fort in Charleston Harbor. On April 12, 1861, Confederate forces attacked Fort Sumter which was controlled by the U.S. (Union) Army, and two days later, the fort surrendered marking the beginning of America’s 5-year Civil War.
Today, Fort Sumter National Monument is run by the National Park Service and open to the public who can visit by ferry from Liberty Square or Patriot’s Point and learn all about the Fort’s place in American history, see the original cannons on site, and tour the nearly 200-year old fort all while taking in breathtaking views of downtown Charleston, Sullivans Island, and the main harbor channel out to the Atlantic Ocean.
30. Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
There’s no place that better symbolizes South Carolina and the Charleston area’s place in the history of the USA than Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, where British settlers first landed on American soil back in 1670.
Now a protected site with over 80 acres of manicured gardens, Charleston’s only zoo, an Instagram-worthy alley of towering live oaks, and more than 6 miles of walking trails, Charles Towne is the perfect place to step back into America’s Colonial past while immersing yourself in Lowcountry nature in an impeccably-preserved centuries-old village.
31. South Carolina Aquarium
South Carolina’s Atlantic coastline is synonymous with sea life so no visit to downtown Charleston would be complete without a trip to the South Carolina Aquarium.
Home to more than 5,000 different aquatic animals ranging from sharks and stingrays to sea turtles and horseshoe crabs, it’s the perfect place for families and kids to learn about South Carolina’s diverse underwater ecosystem and its inhabitants through interactive touch tanks and educational programs. If you’re visiting the Charleston area in the summer it’s also the ideal location to beat the heat during the day when it gets a little hot and humid and you’ve already got a sunburn from the beach.
32. Patriot’s Point Naval And Maritime Museum
Patriot’s Point Naval And Maritime Museum is one of the only places in America where visitors can board and experience an actual U.S. Navy aircraft carrier and get a hands-on history lesson about the Navy’s history, traditions, and core values.
Centered around the USS Yorktown which was one of America’s first aircraft carriers built during World War II, Patriot’s Point Museum in Mount Pleasant is also home to a fleet of National Historic Landmark ships, a Cold War Memorial, and the only Vietnam Experience Exhibit in the U.S., along with hosting one of the largest education and overnight camping programs in the country for kids.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida is known for its beaches, culture, and events. Whether you’re ISO a trip here for sunny days, a girls’ getaway, or simply to be in close proximity to Miami, we’ve come up with the best AvantStay Airbnbs in Fort Lauderdale – all complete with private pools so you get a top-of-the-line vacay.
If you find yourself looking for a travel experience that values your privacy, safety, and cleanliness, maybe it’s time to try that site everyone’s been talking about. Maybe it’s time to try AvantStay.
AvantStay is a gem in the short-term vacation rental world. We display our signature style via hundreds of homes with award-winning interior design, seamless group travel experiences, and a plentiful selection of in-app upgrades and experiences. While all AvantStay properties can be booked through Airbnb, they can also be booked directly through our website.
Apart from its top-of-the-line technology and innovation, AvantStay homes are in primo locations – places you’ve been dying to check out, and places you’re ready to check off your bucket list – like Fort Lauderdale! Let’s dive in.
1. Tidal – For the Outdoorsy Type
We’re starting this roundup strong. Tidal is a Ft. Lauderdale vacation home with an oasis of a backyard. Walk out back to find yourself immersed in a tropical jungle, complete with a private pool with a volleyball net, cozy seating and plenty of opportunities for that al fresco dining moment you’ve been yearning for. Enjoy short drives to the sand – this stay is only a 10-minute drive to Las Olas Beach!
2. Capri – For the Water Sign
No, it’s not Italy, but it’s pretty close. Capri is a lovely vacation home located right on the canal in Pompano Beach. While it doesn’t come with a fresh Italian wood-fired pizza, it does have a pool, hot tub, and a private dock on the water – and honestly, that’s just as good in our book.
If you find yourself still wanting that pizza, try adding on a private chef in our app when you book. They’ll make you (almost) whatever you want…
3. Sea Breeze – For the Salty One
If you want the best of both worlds, stay at Sea Breeze. This stay is located just steps away from the Fort Lauderdale Beach and comes with a private pool with a waterfall. Enjoy long morning walks on the beach then come back to this spacious pad for lunch around the large dining table. At night when the temps drop, cozy up around the electric firepit and cheers to finding the perfect vacation spot. If you’re the type to get chilly, request a heated pool for your stay. You’ll thank us later.
4. Summerfin – For the Photographer
Looking to spruce up your IG feed or TikTok? Head to this Pompano Beach stay. Summerfin is one for those who enjoy the colorful things in life. With a palm tree printed wallpaper seating area, sunny al fresco dining, teal colored pool table, and bright art throughout, this Ft. Lauderdale Airbnb shines bright on our list.
5. Turtle Nest – For the Socialite
Came for the prime location, stayed for the hot tub. Meet Turtle Nest, a vacation home conveniently located near both the beach and downtown. We love this Florida stay for its chic interiors and gorgeous pool/hot tub combo. Add on the fact that there’s room for up to 10 guests, and you just found the ideal place for detoxing before you retox in Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife.
The party doesn’t stop here. While these Airbnbs in Fort Lauderdale are here to impress, we understand that your travel itinerary is too. If you’re looking for more activities for the whole crew, check out our perfectly curated list of 30 Best Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale!
Austin’s legendary live music, bountiful outdoor activities, breakfast tacos, and eclectic arts, culture & food scenes make it one of the best places to visit in Texas year-round.
It’s often said there’s “No Place Like Texas”. There’s also no place in Texas like Austin. The Lone Star State’s capitol is renowned for almost everything that the rest of Texas is not: street art, food trucks, clothing-optional swimming holes, sightseeing, murals, and a funky individualism that’s earned the city the slogan “Keep Austin Weird”.
Lying at the western axis of the state’s big city triangle (the other two being Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth), Austin’s never been fueled by the big oil, cattle ranch stereotypes most people think of when they envision “Texas”. Being an Austinite means embracing contradictions: honky tonks next to skyscrapers, bats under bridges, old-timers drinking with tech CEOs, BBQ and French bistros, and tacos served all day.
At Austin’s heart is its legendary live music and nightlife scene. There are more music venues per capita in Austin than anywhere else in the country, giving it the reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World”. Austin City Limits is one of the longest-running music TV shows in the U.S., and the annual festival of the same name along with South by Southwest (SXSW) are two of the preeminent multi-day music events in America.
Austin’s also world-famous for its museums, state parks, and endless outdoor activities including the Bullock Texas State History Museum, the Texas Memorial Museum, Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum, Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake, Mount Bonnell, the LBJ (Lyndon B. Johnson) Presidential Library and Museum, and the Blanton Art Museum at the University of Texas. Austin’s funky vibe and buzzing downtown are also energized by the university’s 51,000 year-round students.
So, whatever brings you to Longhorn country for a weekend or if you already live here full-time, here are 31 top fun things to do in Austin to rock out, eat big, drink deep, savor a little Texas culture and history, and most importantly—stay weird.
1. Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol building is the largest capitol building in the U.S. and visiting it is one of the top fun things to do when you visit Austin. Architecturally, it’s a masterpiece of workmanship, reflecting the attention to detail in its Italian Renaissance dome, tiled rotunda, stone carvings, and red granite facade that was characteristic of the era when it was built back in 1888 before Austin’s skyline bloomed with gleaming glass high rises. Visitors can take a free 30-minute guided tour seven days a week or explore on their own, dive into Texas history at the Visitors Center next door, or discover more than 22 acres of magnificently manicured grounds outside.
2. Cool Off At Barton Springs Pool
Austin’s hot in summer (temperatures hover in the mid-90s). The good news is that there’s no lack of natural and manmade swimming holes to cool off. Barton Springs Pool is one of Austin’s most famous, located just east of downtown across the Colorado River in 358-acre Zilker Park. Barton’s pool spans three acres and is fed by the fourth largest spring in Texas delivering a constant in-flow of 67-70 degree water. The pool is open from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm daily and entrance fees are $2 – $4 for children (resident and non-resident respectively) and $5 – $9 for adults. Note for families: women may swim topless at the pool so be forewarned.
3. Feast On BBQ
Few things scream Texas more than barbeque—and Austin is home to some of the best BBQ joints in America. One of the most famous is The Salt Lick, which has three locations in the city. Their brisket, ribs, sausage, and pulled pork are slow-cooked in pits in Austin’s Hill Country and are award-winning. Austin’s other iconic BBQ joint is Franklin Barbeque, which frequently has lines extending all the way down the street. In the ten years since it opened, Franklin’s has been featured on Anthony Bourdain’s show “No Reservations”, served lunch to Barak Obama, and received a James Beard Foundation Award.
4. Tour A Local Distillery
Texas isn’t quite as famous for its whiskies, bourbons, vodkas, and gins as Kentucky. But over the past decade, Austin has put itself on the map for its up-and-coming, grain-to-glass spirits scene. Between downtown Austin and Hill Country just east of the city, there are more than two dozen distilleries that utilize local grains, botanicals, and other ingredients to stay true to their Texan roots, while also offering tours and tastings that are almost as enjoyable as the old-fashioned cocktails they serve up. Many also feature food trucks and live music. Still, Austin Whiskey Co., Dripping Springs Distillery, and Treaty Oak Distilling are local favorites.
5. Quench Your Thirst At A Craft Brewery
Austin’s legendary music combined with its recent influx of newcomers, hipsters, and Millennials has inspired an upstart craft brewery scene that’s quickly becoming one of America’s most prolific, rivaling places like Boston, Portland, and Philadelphia. Most of Austin’s local breweries are located in some of the city’s coolest buildings and also boast top-notch kitchens since food and beer naturally go hand in hand. A few of Austin’s best-known, can’t-miss breweries include Austin Beer Garden Brewing, Austin Beerworks, Hold Out Brewing, Jester King Brewery, Live Oak Brewing, and Meanwhile Brewing.
6. Sneak Into A Speakeasy
Chic-shady is the phrase many locals use to describe Austin’s infamous hidden bar scene centered downtown and around East Austin. Some speakeasies require memberships and door codes. Some only allow walk-ins when the red light is on over the door. And even if you can get a reservation at the others, most will kick you out after your allotted time (typically 2 hours). What you will find behind all of the speakeasies’ non-descript doors, however, are the best bartenders and cocktails in Austin. Midnight Cowboy, Small Victory, Here Nor There, and the Milonga Room are a few of the local favorites.
7. Watch The Congress Bridge Bats
Bat-watching probably wouldn’t rank on most people’s “best things to do” lists when visiting Austin. But it’s become one of the city’s most popular pastimes. For reasons only a chiropterologist (a person who studies bats) would understand, the Congress Avenue Bridge over Lady Bird Lake is home to the largest urban bat colony (Mexican Free-Tailed bats specifically) in North America. And every night at dusk from spring through early fall up to 1.5 million of them take to the air in swirling swarms against the sky eating up to nine tons of mosquitos, flies, wasps, and moths in a few hours. You can watch the bats from the Butler Hike & Bike Trail, the bridge itself, or from a boat, kayak, or paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake below. Just make sure you arrive early.
8. Stay At The Driskill
Manhattan has The Plaza. North Carolina has The Biltmore. And when it comes to historic hotels in Austin there’s no place more regal and architecturally significant than The Driskill at the corner of Sixth Street and Brazos Street. A Romanesque Revival masterpiece dating back to 1886, it’s the oldest hotel in the city and is steeped in Texas history and lore (LBJ and Lady Bird went on their first date here back in 1934). Today, with its original marble floors, gilded columns, and stained glass, the Driskill is still one of Austin’s best places to stay. The Driskill Bar is not to be missed either.
9. Play Chicken Shit Bingo
A little bit further down the cultural food chain but no less uniquely Austin (and definitively “weird”) is Chicken Shit Bingo, hosted at The Little Longhorn Saloon in North Austin every Sunday afternoon over a cold beer and live music. While its origins are still debated, this iconic Austin pastime draws visitors and locals alike who, for a small donation for entry, can spend a few hours watching chickens’ rear-ends as they do their business on a giant, caged-in bingo board. The cheering crowd can get raucous when the beer and cider start flowing and the chickens get going, so this is definitely one of Austin’s most Instagram-worthy experiences.
10. Visit The Umlauf Sculpture Garden And Museum
To say that Charles Umlauf’s (1911-1994) home and sculpture studio is a paradise in the city would be an understatement for Austin. Just blocks from downtown, Umlauf’s six-acre property on the south bank of Blanton Creek, which he gifted to the city along with more than 60 of his sculptures back in 1984, is today one of Austin’s open space crown jewels. Now known as the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum Umlauf’s former home is set among landscaped ponds, native plants, fern gardens, and moss-covered live oaks where adults can explore Umlauf’s works in wood, terracotta, bronze, and marble while kids go on guided “safari” tours.
11. Take In Some Street Art At HOPE Outdoor Gallery
Austin’s HOPE Outdoor Gallery is a temple to Austin’s street art (“I Love You So Much” made the city famous). Since 2010, every inch of this abandoned construction site has been spray-painted with everything from cartoon characters to cats in space. Today, visitors and locals gather here to see the new art or add some of their own, while also taking part in the classes, dinner parties, and different events the Gallery puts on. The original HOPE Outdoor Gallery downtown closed in 2019. A new, bigger, better 18-acre HOPE community art park and cultural events center is slated to open later this year which will include a rooftop bar, art supply store, event space, community walls, local vendors, and food trucks.
12. Get Thrifty On Guadalupe Street
The last neighborhood where I lived in Philadelphia was famous for its vintage thrifting and antique shopping for everything from furniture and tuxedos to Homer Simpson statues. I’d often meet people coming from as far away as Brooklyn. Austin’s strip of stores around W. 29th Street and Guadalupe Street is equally legendary and quickly becoming a destination in itself. You can thrift here, bargain hunt, and shop for vintage clothes at the half-dozen shops that carry mostly used threads. When the weather’s nice most of the stores also usually spill over onto the sidewalks so Guadalupe quickly becomes way more social than just the shopping until you drop.
13. Catch A Flick (and an Old-Fashioned) At Alamo Drafthouse
Every city has “institutions”. And if there’s one in Austin that almost everyone would agree on it’s the Alamo Drafthouse. Started by two Rice University grads back in 1997 in the Warehouse District in an old parking garage, this place is part cinema house, part restaurant, and bar and was one of the first places in the country to popularize the watch-eat-drink hybrid model. Renowned for its inventive festivals, and the balance of blockbusters and indy films, while also hosting other events year-round, the Alamo Drafthouse has since expanded in and outside of Austin. But its roots will always be here.
14. Take A Dip At Hamilton Pool
If there’s one thing Austin and its surrounding Hill Country is known for, it’s swimming holes—and Hamilton Pool is one of the finest, most picturesque places in the great State of Texas to cool off and while away an afternoon. Located on a 234-acre nature preserve and the result of the collapse of an underground river a thousand years ago, Hamilton Pool has geography all its own with a waterfall, a massive overhanging roof, deep green jade water, and a beach. Just remember to plan ahead. If you’re visiting between April and September you’ll need to reserve a 4-hour time slot.
15. Stay Cool At Deep Eddy Pool
Deep Eddy Pool was built in 1915 by a man named A.J. Eilers, Sr. who bought the land surrounding the swimming hole and envisioned building a natural, spring-fed swimming pool just minutes from downtown. Eponymously named for a distinct eddy that forms by a large boulder in the pool, Deep Eddy is the oldest swimming pool in Texas and is one of the most popular swimming areas in the city where kids can wade, parents can swim laps, and there are also events like poolside movies in summer. The pool is open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm daily and adult passes are $5 – $9/day for a resident and non-resident respectively (kids under 12 are $2 and $4).
16. Go On A Taco Crawl
Few activities pay homage to Austin’s illustrious Tex-Mex culinary history better than a city-wide taco tour, whether you’re a long-time local or just in town for the weekend. Somehow, some time ago Austin also got famous for its breakfast tacos—since just feasting on them for lunch and dinner isn’t enough. Veracruz All Natural which has several locations is a longtime Austinites’ favorite, along with Tacodeli and Torchy’s Tacos, which started as a food truck and now has over 50 locations. Bring your patience to your taco crawl as well as your appetite though—the lines at some of these joints are as famous as the tacos.
17. Rock Out At The White Horse
Every great southern city seems to have a legendary honky tonk or live music venue called the White Horse. And Austin doesn’t disappoint on this front (take that Nashville . . .). The White Horse in East Austin is one of the city’s coolest live music venues and hosts live music and bands every day of the week pretty much non-stop. It’s also one of Austin’s top taco spots including an excellent breakfast taco menu for some of the best late-night/early-morning eating in the city. There’s also whiskey on tap and free dance lessons Tuesday through Saturday. Any questions?
18. Get Aquatic On Lady Bird Lake
One of the city’s top destinations for outdoor and watersports activities, Lady Bird Lake is actually a dammed-up section of the Colorado River just east of downtown Austin adjacent to the Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park. It’s the ideal place especially in summer to beat the heat, chill with your friends and family, pack up a picnic, go canoeing, paddleboarding, or kayaking, or take a sunset river cruise since the views of Austin’s skyline are second to none. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail also runs over 10 miles around the lake so you’ve got picture-perfect urban terrain for a long walk, run, or ride.
19. Visit Hill Country
Unless you’re a hunter, many visitors don’t think of Texas for its nature and the outdoors. The Hill Country west of Austin will very quickly convince you otherwise. Hill Country’s undulating landscape, big skies, stunning sunsets, and technicolor spring flower blooms will take your breath away. There are also many fun things to do on the more culinary and cultural side of things. Dripping Springs, Texas is a picture-perfect Texas frontier throw-back town and Fredericksburg is home to more than 45 wineries and vineyards as well as several state parks, historic sites, bed & breakfasts, and swimming holes.
20. Boat (And Catch A Sunset) On Lake Travis
Lake Travis is to Austin what Lake Mead is to Las Vegas—an original flood-control reservoir on the Colorado River that’s now one of the best places for locals and visitors to boat, fish, waterski, wakeboard, and engage in dozens of other watersports and outdoor activities just 15 miles from downtown. There are several boat rental operations on both sides of the lake that can get you out on the water or take you out on a Texas-sized sunset cruise, and also don’t miss the Oasis with its multi-patio deck overlooking the lake, unparalleled views, a massive restaurant, and multiple bars and breweries. (Note: Lake Austin is pretty great for boating also).
21. Hike Up Mount Bonnell
If Lake Travis hasn’t satisfied your thirst for Austin’s outdoors, put on your hiking shoes and hoof it up the roughly 600’ to the top of Mount Bonnell in 5.1-acre Covert Park just northwest of downtown. This limestone escarpment over the Colorado River faces both east and west, offering spectacular sunrise and sunset views as well as one of the best panoramas of downtown Austin’s skyline in the city. If you’re driving park at the north end of Covert Park and a trail will lead you south along the top of the cliff. This is one of Austin’s top spots for a romantic picnic or an outdoor date.
22. Circuit of The Americas
The Circuit of The Americas opened in 2012 to great fanfare and remains one of the top attractions in Austin. Home to the Formula One United States Grand Prix, the Motorcycle Grand Prix of the Americas, and the IndyCar Classic among several other racing events, this 5.5 kilometers, serpentine race track is a marvel of engineering and geometry, specifically built to offer spectators clear lines of sight from almost every viewing angle. It’s also one of the only Formula One tracks that you can drive or see artists like Metallic or Kayne West at the Austin 360 Amphitheater when there’s not a race going on.
23. Attend A Longhorn’s Football Game
With its 51,000+ students and 1,438-acre campus, the University of Texas is a destination in itself when you’re visiting Austin. And its Division I NCAA football team, the Longhorns—who have won four NCAA football championships over the years—is a powerhouse. So, if you’re a sports fan it doesn’t get any better than tailgating and watching a game during football season. U of T’s Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium can house more than 100,000+ crazed hometown fans and is one of the ten largest stadiums in the world in any sport. Just learn how to do the “Hook ’em Horns” hand signal beforehand before you go.
24. Take A Stroll Along South Congress Avenue
If you want to shop, stroll, or saunter while you’re visiting Austin, South Congress Avenue—a.k.a. “SoCo”—is the place to do it. This six-lane boulevard consists of five, funky walkable blocks southwest of downtown that is home to some of Austin’s best locally-grown boutiques, galleries, bars, restaurants, and live music. Allens Boots, one of Austin’s iconic purveyors of Texas western wear and boots is here, where caiman belly boots can go for $2,000, along with famous costume stores like Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds. SoCo since 2010 has also been at the epicenter of Austin’s famed food truck scene so it’s one of the best places in the city for foodies.
25. Rainey Street
On the subject of funky, keep-it-weird neighborhoods, Rainey Street is another one of Austin’s most unique and eccentric. Rooted in historic craftsman architecture from the 1930s and re-invigorated by a thriving bar, live music, and entertainment scene, Rainey Street is a pageantry of food trucks, patio lights, boutique-chic restaurants, speakeasies, and buzzing bars. It gets crowded here and on the weekends it’s definitely more touristy than local. But if you want to get a slice of Austin’s ultra-hip, up-and-coming nightlife scene this is the spot.
26. Jam Out At Austin City Limits
There’s nothing quite as legendary in Austin when it comes to live music than PBS’s Austin City Limits (ACL). The longest-running music television show dating back to 1974, ACL has hosted the likes of Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and Neil Young at the peak of their careers and introduced a new artist to America every week for the past fifty years. The 2,750-person, new venue, ACL Live At Moody Theater built in 2011 as part of a $300 million mixed-use downtown development, is also reputed to have some of the best acoustics of any stage between Austin and Nashville.
27. South By Southwest (SXSW)
Hands down South By Southwest a.k.a. SXSW is one of the grandest and most celebrated live music festivals in the world. It’s also an art, cultural, and culinary celebration of Austin and its off-beat vibe which now attracts hundreds of thousands of people to the city every March. First started in 1987, the event frequently features more than 2,000 musical acts from over 40 countries at venues around the city but also includes panel discussions, talks by venture capitalists, workshops with tech leaders, and exhibits showcasing emerging start-ups and technologies—for which Austin is becoming well known.
28. Bullock Texas State History Museum
If you want to learn about Texas’s history as well as the state’s contributions to America and the world this is the place to start. Located behind a big Texas star a few blocks south of the Texas State Capitol Building, the Bullock Texas State History Museum is one of Austin’s top destinations for families, locals, and visitors featuring exhibits on the area’s pre-history 16,000 years ago all the way up to rodeos, ranching, oil and gas drilling, and space exploration today. Exhibits include a real-life NASA Mission Control console from the 1960s as well as the largest IMAX theatre in the state.
29. Blanton Museum of Art
The University of Texas’s Blanton Museum of Art is the envy of almost every other American city. It’s one of the city’s most renowned cultural attractions, one of the largest university art museums in the U.S., and an architectural icon unto itself. The museum houses more than 18,000 works of European, contemporary American, and Latin American art along with rare pieces by Veronese, Rubens, Parmigianino, Simon Vouet, Yayoi Kusama, Natalie Frank, and Nina Katchadourian. It’s also wrapped in limestone panels from Alicante, Spain, 33 stained glass windows mouth-blown in Germany, and Carrera tiles from around the world. If you’re an art or architectural lover, this is an Austin can’t-miss.
30. Zilker Park
Zilker Park is Austin’s pre-eminent oasis in the city with more than 350 acres of open space, gardens, events (it hosts Austin City Limits), outdoor activities, and fun things to do year-round. Anchored by the confluence of Barton Creek and the Colorado River, the park was given to the city by politician and philanthropist Andrew Jackson Zilker in 1918 and now includes volleyball and disc golf areas, the Hillside Theater for summer plays, the Austin Science and Nature Center, the Zilker Botanical Garden, and the Lady Bird Lake Trail. The views of Austin’s skyline from here are also jaw-dropping.
31. LBJ Presidential Library and Museum
Before George H.W. and George W. Bush, it was Lyndon B. Johnson who made Texas famous for breeding American Presidents. So for American history aficionados or anyone interested in learning more about the pivotal years in the U.S. between 1963 – 1969 when landmark legislation like the Voting Rights and Civil Rights Acts were passed when Johnson was President, there is no more sacred shrine. The museum has exhibits about the JFK assassination and delves into complicated issues like social justice as well as international conflicts like the Vietnam War. The museum also includes the original presidential limousine and a replica of LBJ’s Oval Office.
Tucked deep between the snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Mountains, humbled by scenic views and serene lakes, is Bend, a small city on the Deschutes River in Oregon with views like no other. The city has the best of both worlds – ice-wrapped mountain tops to its north, high desert plateaus to its south, and lots of greenery in between – making it one of the best tourist attractions in the USA.
There are hundreds of best things to do in Bend, Oregon. From observing the pristine beauty of meters of exciting Bend trails and picturesque views to living through history at the national parks and museums.
So, whether its solo adventurers looking to get a kick of their lives hiking, trekking and biking through the dangerous trails of Bend, or it’s a big family looking for an active and healthy weekend getaway with children cozying around the fire pit, there is something for everyone at Bend Oregon. You could say that the city is a mecca for all fun things.
To make it easier for you to find and partake in what you love, we have narrowed down 30 of the best things to do in Bend, Oregon. Not only this, but we have categorized these activities into four groups so that you can make the most out of your trip. Let’s dive in!
Outdoor Activities and Recreation: Where Adventure Awaits!
From hiking and biking to floating down the Deschutes River and waterskiing, Bend is a paradise for those on the lookout for seeking to indulge in some outdoor fun. Before we proceed, it is worth mentioning that booking a stay at the Big Pine will ensure that you remain close to most of these attractions for utmost convenience.
The following are some of the best recreational activities Bend, Oregon has to offer:
1. Stroll to Explore the Drake Park
Set along the Deschutes National Forest, besides the Deschutes River is Drake Park, a lush green outdoor stage stretching 13 acres across the historic area of Bend. It is a delightful space full of walking and running tracks, benches, and picnic tables.
The best part? It has direct public river access known as the Mirror Pond so that you can never fall short of the rich views. You can find a restored old Bend neighborhood just behind the park, making it a great place to start exploring the city.
2. Trek to See the Famous Tumalo Falls
If you’re from the state of Oregon, or quite frankly anywhere in the USA, you’ve probably already heard of the famous 97-foot Tumalo waterfall. The falls are a few miles west of Bend, where they plunge off the rocky wall and into the roaring river beneath.
A short trekking trail takes enthusiasts to the edge of the waterfall, where they can look down at the falls and snap pictures of the fenced area. Don’t worry! It is perfectly safe. However, if trekking too close to the waterfall isn’t your cup of tea, an observation area near the parking lot can easily house you while you get the best views of the falls.
3. Hit the Many Hiking Trails of Bend, Oregon
Known for having hundreds of beautiful hiking trails, offering exuberant views, and challenging bases, Bend never disappoints, especially for hikers. If you’re a hiker on a time crunch and want to visit the best hiking trails, we recommend starting from either the bend ale trail or the Smith Rock State Park trailhead. It is the most accessible trail to master as the level of difficulty slowly builds and increases. Next, you will be trekking beside the Crooked River up the Misery Ridge.
Once you’ve got a kick for hiking, be a good hiker and go for the 11-mile challenging trail leading to South Sister. It starts at the Devil’s Lake Campground and goes up the third tallest mountain in Oregon. The views of the Three Fingered Jack, Broken Top, and Mt. Bachelor make the difficult trailhead worth the experience.
4. Climb Some Rocks at the Smith Rock State Park
If you’ve got a knack for rock climbing, especially for sports climbing, multi-pitch climbing, and bouldering, the Smith Rock State Park is the place to be!
With 650 acres of sheer rock carved naturally yet perfectly for climbing, you’re guaranteed to have a good time finding versatile climbing routes.
5. Grab Your Mountain Bike to Conquer Bend
There are fourteen major biking regions with over 300 miles of mountain biking trails in Bend, Oregon. Each of these biking regions have its own unique offerings; however, it is best to consider the level of difficulty and terrain when choosing between them.
Mt. Bachelor is north of bend and has one of the most famous mountain biking trails in the area. It is known for its sightseeing, especially when tourists find otters and porcupines. In fact, it even houses a gorgeous ski hill, snowboarding, and snowshoeing opportunities during the wintertime. The Cascade National Scenic Byway falls second in popularity for mountain biking trails, especially those at the Cascade Lakes.
6. Surfing Along the Deschutes River
The Deschutes River located at the Deschutes National Forest isn’t just for the views when you want to visit Bend, Oregon. Instead, people take full advantage of the many recreational activities the river has to offer.
Once at the riverside, you’ll find many little stalls and tourism stores that offer tubing, float boats, paddleboarding, Deschutes River trail, surfing, and swimming. If you’re a tourist, you might want to negotiate the pricing a bit before booking!
Many even make their way to the Deschutes brewery post-water activities to cool down even more. After all, the Deschutes brewery is known for keeping everyone cool and calm.
7. Find Your Zen at the Pilot Butte Scenic Viewpoint
Pilot Butte is a popular tourist attraction as it looks down upon the city while absorbing dynamic, lush views from all four sides.
If you’re looking to cool down after your many adventures so far, join a yoga group class at the Pilot Butte Scenic Viewpoint.
8. Drive Around the Cascade Byway
To clear your best things to do in Bend, Oregon list, you must drive around the 60-mile Cascade Range Byway. Throughout your scenic drive up the mountain, from views of pine-covered hills to snow-covered peaks and curved roads around Mt. Bachelor, Sparks Lake, Cascade Lakes, and Todd Lake trail, you’re guaranteed to experience beauty like no other.
In fact, there are plenty of activities to partake in at each of these pitstops, especially at the Todd Lake trail, where tourists mainly go biking, fishing, and kayaking.
9. Bring Your Snow Gear Out at the Mt. Bachelor
During wintertime, Mount Bachelor ski resort houses thousands of adventurers traveling from around the States. The 4,300 acres of skiable terrain built over an extinct volcano is open for skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and dogsledding.
10. Try a Different Kind of Adventure at the Bend Scavenger Hunt
Some of the best things to do in Bend, Oregon, aren’t just limited to adrenaline-pumping sports and outdoor activities; instead, they include super upbeat and unusual things too. The Bend Scavenger Hunt is just that.
The Hunt is an opportunity to make the team with friends and family to explore the city’s historical intricacies, including facts and figures about some of the oldest log cabins, cornerstone buildings, and tribal frontiers.
11. Keep it Simple and Go Golfing
Contrary to popular belief, Bend, Oregon, is also known for its excellent golfing spaces. There are tens of gold clubs built in the heart of Bend to assist golfers from across the states. The city holds national golf tournaments every once in a while as well.
Picture this: You have a match against your best bud in the lush Tetherow golf course in Bend, surrounded by unmatchable views of the Cascade ranges. Does that sound like something you would enjoy? Don’t forget to pre-book the golf course and reserve a teatime early on as well!
12. Unwind at the Soaking Pool
Throughout your hiking, trekking, and biking fun, don’t forget to rest your body! We recommend taking a day off to spend soaking in the heated pool or hot tub in Tetherow, Bend. It is undeniably one of the best places to unwind at.
If you’re not near Tetherow, you can always opt for McMenamins Old St. Francis School. The school offers both indoor and outdoor heated pools and hot tubs and even has a Greek bathhouse for 5 USD per person.
13. Ever Heard of Spelunking? Go for it!
Spelunking defines the hobby of exploring caves. If you feel like you resonate with such an adventure, Bend has some extinct volcanoes you can climb, trek, and even explore from the inside out.
There are some popular lava tubes in the vicinity of Bend, such as Boyd Cave and Skeleton Cave. If you haven’t gone spelunking before, you can go exploring with a guided tour as well. However, you will need specialized equipment, including headlamps, traction-supported ankle-high shoes, and a warm jacket.
14. Spend the Day Indulging in the Lava Rush Off-Road Adventure
If you can’t get enough of the lava tubes and the lava flows, go down to the Newberry National Volcanic Monument to visit the Lava River Cave as well. These 1000-year-old lava tubes can be explored with the Lava Rush Off-Road Adventure sponsored by Wanderlust Tours.
Throughout the tour, you’re going to drive a four-wheel Polaris XP1000 across the lava fields. We recommend this short adventure for families and friends alike.
15. Drive to the Lava Butte
We understand that some adventures can stay limited to exploration from within the haven of your car – a safe comfort many enjoy! For such subtle escapades full of excitement, drive to the top of Lava Butte.
While there is limited parking available at the Lava Butte parking lot, each visiting car gets a 30-minute pass where you can soak up the scenic views of the 500-foot-high lava cinder cone and the lava flows.
There is a visiting center too, so be sure to grab a souvenir or two to remember your spree!
Historical Museums and Monuments: Make Unforgettable Memories
While Bend may be known more for its outdoor pursuits and stunning beauty, your trip is not complete without a visit to some of its best-known museums and national monuments, especially if you are a history lover. They are as follows:
16. Visiting the High Desert Museum
One of the best things to do in Bend, Oregon, is to visit Bend’s High Desert Museum. Unlike many other museums across the USA, High Desert spans 135 acres of forest land. It is full of nature trails and outdoor exhibits, which are informative and engaging to partake in.
There are frequent new limited-time exhibits, animal shows, and workshops offered at the Museum, ensuring that the land is full of innovative things to do.
17. Exploring Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Another historic Bend, Oregon treat is the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. The monument has two main access points, each of which transports you into a new world full of fun things to indulge in.
On top of the monument is the Lava Butte and Lava River Cave, with Lava Lands Visitor Center just off the ascend. The Visitor Center is the hub of information, especially for those interested in getting the geological details of the area.
18. Observing the Paulina Peak Monument
A few miles beyond the Lava Lands Visitor Center are Paulina Lake and East Lake. To access them, you get right off Highway 97 and onto Paulina Lake Road. This alpine area is incredibly lush, offering a sudden change of atmosphere. In fact, once on an incline, you’re going to see breathtaking views of Paulina Peak!
Mouthwatering Food and Endless Shopping!
Bend is home to delectable dining experiences and offers unique shopping experiences. Here are some of our best picks that are a must-visit on your trip:
19. A Visit to the Old Mill Food District
The Old Mill District is built upon the remnants of the Brooks-Scanlon lumber mill. However, do not be mistaken; the rejuvenated area houses some of the best restaurants in the area!
There are tens of restaurants offering a luxe indoor experience and outdoor dining if you’re one to enjoy the view of the Deschutes River. Some of the most popular restaurants include:
Flatbread Neapolitan Pizzeria: a lively pizza restaurant with specialized bread and a wine bar.
Va Piano Vineyards: a premier winery with wine-tasting rooms and snacks.
Rapa Nui Tiki Lounge: a traditional tropical island-themed tiki bar with fresh cocktails and Asian fusion food.
20. Grab Some BBQ for a Memorable Picnic
Amongst some of the best things to do in Bend, Oregon, is to grab some great BBQ from the Old Mill District and drive up to a beautiful picnic spot to make some unforgettable memories.
Not quite sure how to get all this done? We’ve got your back!
Grab sesame-crusted tuna bowls, house-smoked lox, and BBQ roast from Boxwood Kitchen, Old Mill District, and drive up to the Newberry Caldera, which has excellent campgrounds and pleasant lakeside areas to have a memorable picnic.
21. Drink the Best Craft Beer!
There are twenty-two breweries in Bend, all of which are immensely popular and for all the right reasons. Some of the best ones include Crux Fermentation Project, Deschutes Brewery Bend Public House, and Boneyard Beer Pub. You can find the rest in the bend ale trail guide.
Each offers hundreds of specialized beers with upbeat tasting rooms, super-friendly staff, and brilliant events to ensure their guests have a blast. Plus, they all give a free little souvenir to tourists! Something to surely remember Bend in good words, right?
22. Shop at Downtown Bend
Bend, Oregon, has a super cute downtown with a shopping experience like none other on all of Oregon coast and north of bend. The streets are full of unique little boutiques, handmade crafts, and local jewelry stores. Head to some local stores, such as Savory Spice and Avalon Salon & Spa, to support Bend, Oregon’s local community!
Not only this, but the city has some trendy nationwide stores with no taxes, including American Eagle, making them much cheaper than anywhere else in the country.
23. Indulge in the No-Tax Shopping Lifestyle
Have you been saving up for that new MacBook? Perhaps the latest iPhone was slightly out of reach due to the unbearably high taxes? At Central Oregon, you can splurge without any hidden charges and taxes added to your bill.
Yes, you read that right! Everyone in Bend, Oregon, is living the no-tax shopping lifestyle, and you should too. Be sure to take some extra cash with you so that you can update all your electronics and even your wardrobe for much less than anywhere else.
For your comfort, we recommend booking a vacation rental in Central Oregon so that all the tourist hotspots are easy to reach and to experience its vibrancy and multiculturalism to the fullest.
Deschutes in Bend is located about 10 minutes from downtown Oregon, offering exciting amenities like bikes, board games, and a foosball table.
Exploring Town & Local Events: The Very Best of Bend, Oregon
Bend has plenty of exciting activities going on all year long. Spice up your vacation to Bend by attending some of the local events happening around you. Head to a local spa at the end of the day to relax your mind, body, and spirit.
24. Attending Special Events Around the Town
Some of the best things to do in Bend, Oregon include attending their special local events across town. Given that the city is so lively, there is something fun happening at all times. Popular events in Bend, Oregon, around the year include Downtown Bend First Friday Art Walk, Pole Pedal Paddle, and Bend Brewfest.
The Les Schwab Amphitheater in Bend, Oregon, is a great outdoor amphitheater perched at the Deschutes River Bank. Owing to the city’s love for nature, the amphitheater is nothing big and fancy; instead, the seating is relatively low-profile. You can either opt for seating on the grass or bring your own small and foldable chairs and blankets.
The amphitheater houses ticketed and free events, concerts, and theatrics, all of which are extremely fun to participate in and visit.
26. Catch a Show at the Tower Theatre
Much like the Les Schwab Amphitheater, the Tower Theatre is a historical landmark for the locals at Bend, Oregon. It was opened in the 1940s when the theatre was the city’s biggest attraction.
At the current, the Tower Theatre is sponsored by the city’s council to cater to modern audiences as well. Since the theatre features different shows each month, it is best to check their website and pre-book.
27. Enjoy the Bend Summer Festival
Local events in Central Oregon, especially Bend, Oregon, are full of fun and adventure, paired with delicious food and an exuberant display of culture. One such event that blows everyone away is the Bend Summer Festival. This family-friendly event is three days long and full of entertainment like none other.
From art walks, craft makers, and fine-art displays to beer fests, wine-tasting, marathons, and outdoor concerts, there is something for everyone and certainly nothing you would want to miss out on!
If you’re planning to visit this festival, you may have to alter your trip dates around the summer months and pre-book your hotels, as Bend can get pretty stuffy during July.
28. Staying at the Riverhouse Resort
The Riverhouse on the Deschutes is Bend’s largest and most popular resort. It is designed with sophistication to ensure that the visitors have an unparalleled experience, inside and outside the hotel.
Outside, the hotel is nestled between the lush views of the snow-covered peaks, surrounded by green fields and the Deschutes Riverbed. And on the inside, there is heavy use of contemporary design to make the resort extravagant.
Not only are the location and amenities relaxing, but there are also many fun activities offered by the resort for its guests, including indoor and outdoor heated pools, specialized spas, and the Deschutes River Trail.
29. Staying at the Oxford Hotel and Resort
Another great resort to spend your days in Bend, Oregon, is the Oxford Hotel and Resort. The resort reflects all the natural elements of the region blended with a luxurious ambiance that warrants an unforgettable stay.
It is located in the Old Bend, which is in the vicinity of downtown, and is the best place to stay if you’re looking to enjoy spending time in the Old Mill District.
30. Relaxing and Unwinding at the Local Spas
Whether you’re a local or a tourist looking for some of the best things to do in Bend, Oregon, everyone benefits the same from a short visit to the spa. Unlike other places, the spas at Bend, Oregon, not only offer the perfect solution to your beauty needs but come with a gorgeous, jaw-dropping view.
If you want to end your trip to Bend at the spa, we recommend visiting Drift Spa, which has sustainable treatments and an exceptional service superior to all else. Plus, it has breathtaking views of the Deschutes River. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can book with Radiant Day Spa, a luxurious yet affordable self-care experience in the heart of Old Mills District.
Final Words
If you have not decided on your next vacation destination yet, Bend, Oregon is the place to be. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature lover, a history buff, or perhaps the average tourist simply seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of hectic daily life, there are plenty of fun things to do in Bend, Oregon throughout the year. Book your stay at one of our Bend vacation rentals today!
Delivering a consistent, first-class vacation experience for every guest is the standard at which we operate. We give guests all the amenities of a hotel, paired with the comfort of a private home to create a top-notch guest experience. By going above and beyond for our guests, we receive more five-star ratings than the competition, drive more bookings, and increase our homeowners’ revenue.
Guest-ready homes
A fantastic guest stay starts with a well-stocked home. We ensure that each home is stocked with anything guests might need during their stay, including an array of high-quality consumables and thoughtful localized welcome packages. If guests need additional supplies or want to begin their stay with a fully-stocked fridge, they can easily request that upgrade via our app.
Upgrades and experiences via the AvantStay app
In addition to fridge stocking, guests can request mid-stay cleans, book a private chef or in-home massage, and arrange at-home or local outdoor activities through our app. In addition, our local partnerships offer guests an opportunity to experience any destination like a true local with personalized recommendations and exclusive discounts.
Some fan-favorite activities we’ve planned for our guests include:
At-home spas
Wine tours
Snorkeling cruises
Paint parties
Casino nights
Snowmobile adventures
Dog sledding
Deep sea fishing
Yoga and sound baths
And more!
Interactive spaces designed for the way people travel
We believe the best accommodations are designed to enhance every aspect of a guest’s travels, which is why we transform beautiful homes into incredible experiences that foster unforgettable memories. We style and equip homes with high-quality features to attract top-tier guests who trust our brand and treat your property with respect.
All AvantStay homeowners have access to our design and procurement services. Our interior designers create custom, locally inspired spaces that guests love. We also help procure high-quality, durable furniture and upscale amenities, and coordinate delivery and installation on your behalf so you don’t have to lift a finger. Our thoughtfully designed spaces encourage gathering and allow guests to make the most of their time at your home—leaving them recharged and ready to write a glowing review!
Around-the-clock guest support
AvantStay guests have access to 24/7 live support via SMS, email, or phone, and we troubleshoot every issue to ensure they are well cared for so you can sit back and relax. By resolving 90% of guest issues on the first call, we receive higher ratings and better guest satisfaction scores than any other manager in the space.
Earn more with an optimized home and top-notch guest experience
A high-quality guest experience is the backbone of a successful vacation rental business. Why not partner with the leading hospitality platform to bring that to your vacation rental?
AvantStay offers end-to-end, flexible management programs to give you peace of mind. From financials to design to maintenance, we take care of your home as if it were our own. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management and provides premium guest care. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and relax—it’s that simple.
Telluride’s peak season may be winter thanks to its incredible skiing, but we’ve found plenty of reasons why the warmer months are a great time to visit Colorado’s favorite mountain town. From June through September, the sun shines brighter over the San Juan Mountains, the wildflowers bloom in the basins, and the town’s gondola reopens to take you dining and shopping in Mountain Village. With average daily temperatures in the 70s, Telluride’s idyllic summer weather, hiking, and biking are just a couple reasons to be outside. Here are 6 more to get you inspired:
Planet Bluegrass invites you to attend an eco-friendly mountain experience at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. Dance to live music across various genres, nibble on Sister’s Pantry’s famous dumplings, and leave happily knowing you participated in “Sustainable Festivation” aka “the act of creating a conscious community around a love of music and respect for the planet.”
Come thirsty and leave a little tipsy. The Telluride Wine Festival is a weekend-long celebration of wine and food courtesy of renowned vintners and top chefs from around the world. As you sample a variety of flavors, attend seminars, and enjoy pairing dinners, you’ll also support local culinary & hospitality businesses, as well as regional farmers. Plus, between sips, you get to take in backdrop views of Telluride’s box canyon—cheers!
Every summer, for one week, The Sheridan Arts Foundation hosts 20-25 nationally recognized plein air artists to capture Telluride’s incredible mountain landscapes on canvas. Passerbys, locals, and tourists can observe as they paint “en plein air” (in the open air). At the end of the festival, you can buy one of their paintings and take a piece of Telluride home with you.
Rock ‘n’ roll sounds even better when it’s played against sweeping mountains vistas and forest landscapes. Since its debut in 2012, the RIDE Festival has showcased up-and-coming (at the time) artists like Tyler Childers, The Lumineers, and Nathaiel Rateliff, as well as performances from all time greats, such as Pearl Jam and Widespread Panic.
Nestled against the San Juan Mountains, Telluride’s legendary Town Park venue hosts one of the country’s most scenic music events. Since 1977, the Telluride Jazz Festival delivers three days of world-class concerts, interactive performances, children’s activities, late night club shows, historical walking tours, and all things Jazz within a mesmerizing outdoor setting.
Sometimes, the best summer activity is an AC-infused trip to the movie theater. Sometimes it’s 4 days of that, straight, plus really interesting people to discuss the experience with. Fans of cinema flock to Telluride during film festival week, “embarking on a viewing odyssey, blissfully spending entire days in flickering dark rooms.” Between screenings, filmmakers engage with their viewers for spontaneous conversation about what they just watched—no awards or prizes, just movies and discussions about them!
Our list of reasons to head to Telluride for a summer getaway is just the tip of a (really fun, cool, adventurous, scenic, au naturally beautiful) iceberg. To get the full experience, you’ll have to head there yourself. Book a Telluride AvantStay home to do it right—aka an award-winning house with enough space for all your favorite people, upscale amenities, and 24/7 service.
At AvantStay, we believe that every property has a story—whether those are stories already written or yet to be told. Sometimes, we even find stories in progress, like that of one of our hotels, The Monkey Tree.
History
Located in Palm Springs, The Monkey Tree Hotel was originally designed in 1960 by the father of desert modernism, Albert Frey, to accommodate overflow from the famed nearby Racquet Club of Palm Springs. As the Racquet Club was a haven for the Old Hollywood set, The Monkey Tree naturally became a place celebrities like Lucille Ball and Katharine Hepburn looked to when staying in the area to escape the limelight. It’s even the subject of speculation regarding a night in 1962 where Marilyn Monroe and President John F. Kennedy stayed there together.
Eventually, the hotel passed hands and was reopened by an Orange County doctor as a clothing-optional gay resort under the name Legacy. In fact, you can still see the faint lettering of the name at the bottom of the pool near a submerged bench. After Legacy came and went, it was the Terra Cotta Inn for a while, which was once called “the most mainstream nudist resort in America” by CBS. The Terra Cotta Inn closed in 2015, at which point the resort changed hands again to become The Monkey Tree. Six years later, in June of 2021, The Monkey Tree became a part of the AvantStay portfolio. We’re proud and excited to take on this history-rich property and continue its legacy.
What to Expect
Whether you’re at the pool under one of our retro umbrellas or on your private patio, the Monkey Tree is a perfect place to relax and unwind. One of the reasons Monroe and Kennedy would have chosen the Monkey Tree is its privacy—a feature that remains to this day. So if it’s an intimate location you’re after, look no further.
Sixteen suites dot the property, each with colorful, personality-filled furnishings. Five suites contain a kitchenette and bar, while two contain a larger patio. It’s the perfect place to catch up with some friends, play some ping pong and board games, and enjoy your vacation.
Ways You Can Stay
The Monkey Tree’s privacy, along with its size, makes it perfect for a hotel buyout—something you can easily book here. We also have individual rooms or sets of rooms, so The Monkey Tree is an ideal getaway no matter the size of your group.
California is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, and what better way to experience them than by staying in one of the best lakeside cabins the state has to offer? Whether you’re looking for a group getaway with friends or a fun-filled family vacation, AvantStay’s California lakeside vacation homes provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Among the top destinations for lakefront cabins are Lake Tahoe, Big Bear, and Lake Arrowhead, where visitors can soak up the stunning scenery, indulge in various outdoor activities, and unwind in the peacefulness of nature.
In this article, we will take you through the 11 best lakeside cabins in California, showcasing each cabin’s unique features and amenities to help you plan your next unforgettable vacation.
1. Lake View Lodge — Big Bear, California
Experience a sensational cabin stay at Lake View Lodge, a pristine property located in the prestigious Castle Glen Estates of Big Bear Lake. This 2-story home offers 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, and a wrap-around deck with stunning 180-degree views of the lake, mountains, and ski slopes. Unwind in the 6-person hot tub on the oversized deck and admire the sunset as it reflects across the lake. The home provides an expansive view of the entire 7-mile lake from the deck, living room, and primary bedroom. The first floor has a 3-car garage, great room, fireplace, dining area, and one bedroom, while the second floor offers 3 more bedrooms and a large living room perfect for kids to enjoy.
2. Lakeview — Lake Tahoe, California
Welcome to Lakeview! Take in breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Tahoe at this exceptional lakefront home. Enjoy the rustic yet modern interior with high-ceilings and large windows (perfect for stargazing from your couch), along with entertainment options like pool, shuffleboard, and foosball. Outside, take in stunning sunrises and sunsets from the hot tub out on the wrap-around patio. Nearby activities include kayaking, paddle boarding, horseback riding, dining at Jax At The Tracks, beer tasting at Fiftyfifty Brewing Company, and skiing at Northstar Resort.
3. Lakefront Lodge — Big Bear, California
Lakefront Lodge is a luxurious cabin in Big Bear with direct access to Big Bear Lake and beautiful mountain views. It’s just a quick walk to Holloway’s Marina and a few minutes drive to skiing, shopping, and entertainment. The upper entry-level features a dining area, cozy living room, and pool table with incredible lake and mountain views, along with a large deck and hot tub. The spacious gourmet kitchen is fully equipped for cooking, and there’s a dining table, BBQ, and hot tub on the first-floor deck.
4. Cedar Pointe — Lake Arrowhead, California
Step out to Lake Arrowhead from your own backyard at Cedar Pointe by AvantStay. This cabin-style waterfront vacation rental includes a stone fireplace, foosball table, dart board, board games, and plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. Guests can enjoy sunset views from Adirondack chairs or dine alfresco by utilizing the outdoor grill. The Lake Arrowhead Brewery and Village are within walking distance for additional entertainment and dining options.
5. Lagunita Shores — Big Bear, California
BYOB (Bring your own boat)! The backyard at Lagunita Shores boasts a wind-protected deck with unobstructed lake views and a dock for boats and watercraft. It also features a large hot tub, gas fire pit, BBQ area, and lounge chairs for relaxation. Inside, the two-story family room and adjacent dining room have easy access to outside decks. The first floor has a media room, separate bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, and a small office nook perfect for remote workers. Upstairs, the primary bedroom has access to a second-floor deck and a triple-sized master bath, plus four additional bedrooms.
6. Water’s Edge Estate — Big Bear, California
Water’s Edge Estate is a luxurious 6-bedroom cabin located near Big Bear Lake, with direct access to the water and a new custom dock that can accommodate up to two boats and three jet skis. Guests can enjoy various activities such as relaxing on the water, in the spacious backyard, or in the extra-large hot tub. The upper level features three bedrooms with beautiful views of the trees and lake, while the lower level includes a living room, kitchen, and movie room. The spacious outdoor deck offers dining and a natural gas BBQ, and the fully-equipped gourmet kitchen includes high-end appliances, cookware, and breakfast bar seating.
7. Tahoe Edge — Lake Tahoe, California
Tahoe Edge is a modern retreat located just steps away from the northern beaches of Lake Tahoe. It features a large patio with a grill, a fire pit, and a dining table, allowing for al fresco meals and beautiful views of the lake. The common area has huge windows offering plenty of natural light and a great water view. The house has three comfortable bedrooms, a fireplace, and is located near convenient grocery stores. Tahoe Edge is the perfect place to enjoy an incredible waterfront view and an unforgettable experience.
8. Shoreline Lakehouse — Big Bear, California
Enjoy a tranquil stay at Shoreline Lakehouse—this well-equipped 4-bedroom lakefront cabin with direct access to Big Bear Lake. Spend your days fishing, playing beach volleyball, or soaking in the hot tub, and your evenings curled up by the fireplace or toasting s’mores by the fire pit. With five bedrooms, including a private master suite and a bunk bedroom, this cabin can accommodate up to 9 people and is perfect for large families and groups. The living room boasts a river rock fireplace and stunning lake views, while the downstairs game room offers a bar and a poker table. Ideal for year-round mountain getaways.
9. Waterfront Breeze — Big Bear, California
Waterfront Breeze is a lakefront property located at Boulder Bay in Big Bear, offering a relaxing getaway and various outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing. The property features a cozy living room with a wood-burning fireplace, a well-equipped kitchen, and three bedrooms with TVs, including a primary bedroom with an ensuite bathroom. Outdoor amenities include a private dock, gas fire pit, gas BBQ, and SmartTV on the back deck. Garage parking for an SUV and two driveway parking spots are available.
10. Atkinson — Lake Tahoe, California
Check in to Atkinson and experience the breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and surrounding mountains. This large vacation home is perfect for groups and welcomes up to 10 guests. Spend your days on the water and evenings grilling on the balcony while watching an epic sunset. Add some friendly competition with a game of shuffleboard and jam out to music from the record player.
11. Classic Lake House — Big Bear, California
Classic Lake House is one of the original lakefront homes on Big Bear Lake. Located on a double-wide lot that offers a cozy and comfortable retreat for families, the home has four bedrooms, including a bunk room for 4-6 kids. The property is perfect for fishing, skiing, and exploring. The expansive backyard features a new hot tub, swing set, horseshoe pit, and deep water dock for water toys, making it an ideal place for relaxation and fun.
It’s Bach SZN. Time to bring the babes, booze, and bachelorette on over to these oh-so-exclusive boutique hotels in Palm Springs, CA. May we add, you can do full hotel buyouts at all of these stays – meaning you and the bride’s babes get a whole place to yourself, day and night. Do with this information what you will, but first, grab your flamingo float and let’s dive into what each of these desert oases brings to the table.
The Marley Hotel
6 Rooms, 20 Guests
Pretty in pink.
She said “yes” to the dress; now it’s your turn to say “yes” to the west! Pack all your pink, because regardless if it’s Wednesday or not, The Marley Hotel is a sweet, pink, bachelorette dream machine. Lounge by the pool with mountain views. Book group massages for your bridal bash via the AvantStay app. Bounce around town and soak in all that Palm Springs has to offer. Whatever floats your flamingo when you’re at the Marley.
Hotel El Cid
5 Rooms, 16 Guests
Meet you under the cabanas.
It’s quirky, it’s bold, it’s got five bungalows! Meet Hotel El Cid – a newly renovated stay, fully equipped for you and all 15 members of the Bride Squad. Featuring poolside cabanas, a dining tent, firepit, BBQ, outside shower, and more, this buyout promises to turn your bride’s dream bach trip into reality.
The Monkey Tree Hotel
16 Rooms, 34 Guests
It’s all fun and games, especially when your games are outside with picture-perfect views of the San Jacinto Mountains.
This colorful hotel has a historical, fun and frenzied past – rumor has it that JFK and Marilyn Monroe had a tryst here during their stay! Bring all 34 of your Bride’s Babes and get ready to pawty at the Monkey Tree Hotel – because both friends and Fidos are allowed at this hotel, too.
The Wesley Hotel
10 Rooms, 30 Guests
It’s your Final Flamingle and everyone’s invited.
Good times are calling,and you can call up to 30 of your BFFs to join you on a journey to this exclusive Palm Springs hotel, The Wesley Hotel. Lax the day away with a private mixologist sesh, booked directly through the AvantStay app. Have a spa day at Desert Healthcare Wellness Park, or book poolside massages and facials with via the AvantStay app. Spread out and enjoy privacy with over ten flats. When it’s happy hour, reconvene in the common space, which features a large pool, views of the mountains, and bikes ready whenever you are!
Oahu is one of eight islands in the Hawaiian archipelago. It is home to some of the world’s finest beaches, Hawaii’s largest city Honolulu, and the majority of Hawaiian residents.
Oahu translates to “the gathering place,” and the number of people on the island, combined with its breathtaking natural beauty, means there are near limitless activities for people of any age.
Before you head to Oahu, be sure to brush up on the local rules and regulations regarding tourists. Hawaii embraces sustainable tourism to maintain and protect the natural beauty, so they ask guests to leave no trace and support local nonprofit organizations that promote these initiatives.
Whether you’re traveling with your family, partner, or a group of friends, we’ve put together a list of the 51 best things to do in Oahu to make your vacation planning as easy as possible.
1. Diamond Head State Monument
If you want the perfect Instagram photo from Oahu, Diamond Head State Monument is your best bet. It has some of the most scenic hiking and stunning overlooks on the island. When you get to the top of your hike, you’ll have panoramic views of the lush green on Oahu, the Honolulu skyline, and the Pacific Ocean.
If you aren’t a Hawaii resident, you will need to make a reservation and pay a $10 vehicle entry fee, along with a $5 fee per visitor over three years old.
2. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
No matter whom you’re traveling with, Pearl Harbor is worth a stop if you stay in Oahu. The memorial is steeped in devastating but powerful history, and includes the USS Arizona Memorial, The USS Utah Memorial, and the USS Oklahoma Memorial.
The best way to make the most of Pearl Harbor is to book a Ford Island Bus Tour, where you can see the Oklahoma and Utah memorials. The memorial for the USS Arizona is separate from this tour.
3. Kualoa Ranch
Kualoa Ranch is located on the North Shore of Oahu Island. Kualoa Ranch has hosted many incredible TV shows and movies, including Lost and Hawaii Five-0. It is also called the Jurassic Valley because part of the Jurassic Park movie franchise was filmed there.
You can book horseback riding, e-bike tours, Jurassic ATV tours, Hollywood Tours, visits to secluded beaches, and an incredible zipline experience.
4. Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center is the best way to experience the rich heritage of Hawaiian culture on any of the Hawaiian Islands. At the evening shows, you will be able to experience a traditional luau that includes hula dancing and incredible fire displays.
The Polynesia Cultural Center also offers an authentic Hawaiian dining experience and gorgeous handmade souvenirs.
5. Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach is one of the best beaches in Oahu. Located in the town of Kailua, Lanikai is on the island’s windward side and offers stunning views of the bluest ocean you’ll ever see.
Getting to Lanikai can be difficult as there is no public access except for boardwalks between people’s homes. Parking can be difficult, especially on the weekend, so it’s best to visit during the week if you can. There are also no lifeguards on duty for this beach.
While Lanikai may be difficult to reach, it makes this beach one of a few hidden gems less crowded than other parts of the island. Our home Hale Oahu Cottage is only a couple of miles away from this beach.
6. Sunset Beach Park
Sunset Beach along Oahu’s north shore is one of the most incredible beaches in the world. In the winter, the giant waves make it a famous beach for surfers. If you’re unfamiliar with beaches and surfing, staying out of the water on good surfing days is a good idea.
Sunset Beach is the perfect place to go snorkeling during the summer when the winds and surfing waves have calmed. Of course, the beach also lives up to its reputation—it’s the perfect place to catch a sunset no matter the time of year.
7. Dole Plantation
Visiting the Dole Plantation isn’t like seeing any other farm. It has many unique experiences that are perfect for the whole family. Since 1898, the Dole Plantation has been the place for tourists to explore a Pineapple Express Train Tour, a pineapple garden maze, and an incredible guided tour of the gardens.
While the plantation can be a fun place to visit with your family, it is also rich in history. The plantation has been used for centuries, and the foods grown there are a mainstay of Hawaiian culture.
The Dole Plantation is also known for its incredible treats, such as Dole Soft Serve, freshly picked pineapples, and estate-grown Waialua chocolate.
8. Byodo-In Temple
Nestled in the foothills of the Ko-olau Mountains, the Byodo-In Temple is a temple built to honor Japanese immigrants in Hawaii. Dappled with luscious flora, quiet waterfalls, and iconic Japanese Koi, it’s no wonder that the temple is a popular wedding destination for couples from Japan and the US alike.
9. Iolani Palace
The Iolani Palace is one of Hawaii’s finest historic sites. For years it was home to Hawaii’s King Kalakaua and then his successor and sister, Queen Liliuokalani. When the monarchy was overthrown, the palace served as the capital for more than 70 years.
In the 70s, the palace was restored to look like its original royal home. They offer tours where you can learn about Hawaii’s connections with Japan, the traditional attire of Hawaiian royalty, and more.
10. Ala Moana
Ala Moana is a shopping district in Honolulu jam-packed with local cuisine, incredible stores, hula dancers, ukulele players, and activities for children. With hundreds of stores, Ala Moana is easily a full-day activity all on its own.
11. Kailua Beach Park
Kailua Beach is the best beach for active travelers. Located on the windward half of Oahu, you can canoe, kayak, snorkel, or try your hand on a stand-up paddleboard.
There are plenty of amenities available as well, including BBQ pits, picnic shelters, bathrooms with showers, and lifeguards. If you’re staying in a vacation rental on Lanikai or Kailua Beach, you can even get free gear delivered to this picturesque beach.
12. Hanauma Bay Tours
Hanauma Bay Tours offers an incredible experience for the whole family with their Turtle Canyon tours. You and your family will be able to see wonderful marine life up close and its native habitat, including green sea turtles and Hawaii’s state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua’a.
If you’re visiting from December to April, you may even get lucky and see a humpback whale.
13. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens
This iconic garden includes 400 acres of peaceful land for you to explore. You will be able to see native Hawaiian plant life, of course, but you will also be able to explore botanical collections from the Philippines, Malaysia, Africa, and more.
The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens are a great place to learn about nature, wildlife, and the fragile ecosystems of the Hawaiian islands while enjoying gorgeous scenery unlike anywhere else.
14. Ko Olina lagoons
Ko Olina includes four lagoons that spread across 642 acres of land. This beach is one of the more accessible beaches in Oahu, as daily public parking is available.
Ko Olina beaches are best for those that want a quiet beach where they can sit in the sun. Because it is privately owned, Ko Olina has banned alcohol, cigarettes, pets, loud music, and most active beach activities.
If you’re an adult looking for the best place to sunbathe in peace and enjoy the sounds of the waves off of one of Oahu’s finest beaches—Ko Olina is your best bet.
15. Oahu shark diving tour
If you want to ditch the relaxing beaches for a day and have a thrill instead, you can go diving with sharks with North Shore Shark Adventures. They guarantee you will see sharks on their tour, so your time and money are insured with this adventure.
You and your family will be able to observe the true majesty of sharks up close and personal in a cage dive. If you’re planning on visiting Oahu and you can find the time, a shark diving tour is not something you want to miss.
16. Pillboxes
The United States military had to endure intense onslaughts during WWII in Oahu. They built concrete structures called pillboxes around the island to serve as lookouts for the enemy.
Because they were important lookouts, these pillboxes often come with astonishingly beautiful views. Though soldiers built many around Oahu, two of the most popular pillboxes are in Diamond Head Lookout and along the Lanikai Pillbox Trial.
17. Matsumoto Shave Ice
Shave ice is one of Oahu’s most iconic treats, and Matsumoto Shave Ice is one of the most iconic places to get it. Located in Waialua on the island’s north side, Matsumoto has been open since 1951.
This little shop has regular flavors like watermelon, strawberry, and lemon, as well as unique flavors like guava, lychee, and ume. If you want to try something really different, you can even add adzuki beans for a little extra protein.
18. Makapu’u Lighthouse
As a chain of islands, it’s no surprise that Hawaii is home to many different lighthouses. No lighthouse in Hawaii is more iconic than Makapu’u Lighthouse.
To see this lighthouse on the eastern point of Oahu Island, you’ll have to hike 2 miles round trip on Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline. The trail difficulty is moderate, so it’s suitable for most families.
If you decide to make the trek out, bring binoculars to see as much wildlife as possible- whales, seabirds, dolphins, and much more are all often visible from the lighthouse.
19. Halona Blowhole Lookout
The Halona Blowhole Lookout is located near Hanauma Bay off Kalanianaole Highway and is worth a stop. Waters from the Pacific Ocean violently crash against the shore, and an old volcanic tube throws the sea waves high into the air.
Aside from the blowhole itself, the lookout offers spectacular views of the water and a great place to pull over and stretch your legs.
20. Tantalus Lookout
There is perhaps no better way to see the skyline of Honolulu than from Tantalus Lookout. Originally named Pu’u Ualaka’a, Tantalus Lookout is perched atop an extinct cinder cone volcano.
The lookout also offers a fantastic view of the island’s craters—- including Diamond Head Crater—- which formed after large volcanic explosions thousands of years ago. While on the lookout, be sure to explore the Ualaka’a Trail, a short 1-mile loop that offers a unique view of the Hawaiian jungle.
21. Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
The Nu’uanu Pali Lookout is a beautiful and historically significant site in Oahu. This lookout is a must-see just five miles from Honolulu if you’re staying in or near the city.
This lookout is the location where the battle of Nu’uanu took place in 1795. During the fighting, hundreds of soldiers died, many by being pushed off the rocky cliff. It was during this battle that King Kamehameha I united Oahu for the first time.
22. Oahu helicopter tours
There are a few different helicopter tours in Oahu that launch from different locations. Wherever you’re staying, planning to experience Oahu via a helicopter tour couldn’t be more worth it. From the sky, you’ll be able to see Hawaii as the birds do.
From incredible waterfalls and lush green forests to the Honolulu skyline and the cerulean ocean, there is no better way of experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Oahu than from the sky.
23. Waikiki Beach
Located near Honolulu, Waikiki Beach is one of the most iconic beaches that Hawaii has to offer. This world-renowned beach is lined with a half-dozen surfing schools for those looking to learn. The smaller waves on this side of the island are perfect for those getting onto a surfboard for the first time.
If only part of your group is interested in getting on a board, the rest can spend their day shopping or enjoying entertainment just steps away from the beach.
24. Skydiving
Skydiving isn’t for everyone, but if you’re ready for the freefall, this activity is one of the best things to do in Oahu. A few different businesses offer skydiving along the island’s North Shore.
Starting from as high as 14,000 feet, most tours offer freefalls that last as long as 20 seconds. If you’re ready for the thrill of a lifetime, you can check out Pacific Skydiving or Skydive Hawaii to make a reservation.
25. Waimea Bay
The waves at Waimea Bay are not for the faint of heart. This bay is on the windward side of Oahu, and it shows. In winter (roughly November to April), the waves on this beach can be more than 20 feet tall.
The water at this beach is best traversed only by expert surfers and lifeguards. Waimea Bay is the place to be if you want to see expert surfers in action, not if you’re looking to ride your first wave.
In the summer, the waters of the bay calm, and this area becomes a popular spot to relax, snorkel, and dive.
26. Ka’ena Point Trail
The Ka’ena Point Trail is located in Ka’ena Point State Park on the northwestern point of Oahu Island.
On hotter days, hikers should keep in mind that Ka’ena Point Trail is a longer hike that doesn’t offer much shade and has no drinking water available along the trail. Still, if you’re willing to make the 2.7-mile one-way trek, it’s worth it for what you will see along the way.
This trail offers views of the Kaneana, a sea cave that is said to be the home of the Nanaue Shark Man of ancient Hawaiian mythology. If you hit this trail early, you might also be lucky enough to see dolphins swimming in the nearby waters.
27. The ‘Aiea Loop Trail
Located in Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area, the ‘Aiea Loop Trail stretches 4.8 miles of easy and moderate terrain. On average, this trail takes 2 to 3 hours to complete.
The ‘Aiea Loop Trail offers some of the most memorable beauty in Oahu. Lined with lemon eucalyptus trees that leave a lingering citrus smell in the air, this trail offers spectacular views of the southern Oahu coast. You will likely see incredible wildlife along with your views, making this trail a must-see for anyone in the area.
28. Camping in Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area
Campsites in Oahu aren’t easy to come by, but if you get a chance to camp in Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area, take it. With just ten campsites open only from Friday through Wednesday, the State Recreation Area offers the finest way to spend a night outdoors.
The campsites in the recreation area have showers, water fountains, and bathrooms available, though alcohol is not permitted anywhere in the park. You should come prepared for bugs—especially mosquitos. However, it’s well worth it as camping in Hawaii is a truly memorable experience.
29. Wahiawa Freshwater State Recreation Area
Freshwater fishing may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Hawaii, but Wahiawa Freshwater State Recreation Area offers an area to do that. You can fish right off the shore of the Wahiawa Reservoir, or you can fish off a boat.
This recreation area has water fountains, bathrooms, picnic tables, and a boat ramp for your convenience.
30. Kayak to the Mokes
Looking out from Lanikai Beach, you can see two small islands in the distance—the Mokes. Kailua Beach Adventures offers kayaking tours to these secluded islands, from the beach to these islands, where you’ll experience some of the best beaches in Hawaii and spectacular views from the water.
Once you kayak the 30 minutes to the islands, you can hop out of your kayak, swim in the shallow waters, and explore the land. Whether renting a kayak and visiting the islands alone or following a guided tour, The Mokes are a must for anyone visiting Oahu.
31. Koko Crater Trail
The Koko Crater Trail—more commonly called the Koko Head Stairs–is one of the most iconic hikes in Oahu. As Oahu’s most difficult hike with more than 1,000 stairs, this trail is best left to more experienced hikers and groups without small children.
Remember that you will have to descend any stairs you climb up on your way back down. As with all hikes, it’s best to turn around if you feel you’re becoming depleted of your energy or have used half of your water supply.
To do this hike, you can park in the Koko Head District Park parking lot and follow trail signs. The higher you go, the better the views get until you reach the top. There may be no better view of Oahu than from the top of the Koko Crater Trail.
32. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is home to many legendary Pearl Harbor and WWII planes. Located on Ford Island in the middle of Pearl Harbor, this museum is the perfect stop for any group with a history buff.
In this museum, you can walk around an old plane hangar packed with dive bombers, flight simulators, and tons of history.
33. The Manoa Falls Trail
The Manoa Falls Trail is a good choice for those with less experience to get some hiking in on Oahu. The trail has only a gentle slope and is a short 1.6 miles long. It’s also just a 15-minute drive from Honolulu—perfect for families with restless children.
The size of the waterfall at the end of this trail may vary depending on the season and weather. Water from this waterfall depends on rainwater, so if you visit in the dry season, don’t be surprised when the water is a smaller trickle.
Regardless of Manoa Falls waterfall, the trail will take you through a luscious green jungle under a gorgeous canopy of trees. This hike is absolutely worth the effort for the views along the way.
34. Hawaii State Art Museum
The Hawaii State Art Museum is the perfect activity for anyone that wants to learn more about the local culture while getting some time out of the sun. There’s always something new to see with an ever-changing array of exhibits that feature local artists.
The sculpture garden is a permanent exhibit at the art museum. Designed to evoke the image of an urban oasis, the sculpture garden has free admission.
35. Waikiki Submarine Tour
Atlantis Adventures offers a submarine tour of the clear waters of Waikiki. A submarine tour is not for those with claustrophobia, as you’ll dive 100 feet underwater in a tight space to see the marine life below the water.
This tour is one of the best ways to observe fish in their natural habitats. The trip lasts over an hour, during which you will see coral, a sunken shipwreck, and even a crashed airplane.
If you have children on the trip, it should be noted that there is a minimum of 36-inch (3-foot) height for safety reasons.
36. Kaniakapupu Ruins
The Kaniakapupu Ruins are an important historic site on the island of Oahu. Just a short hike off Old Pali Road, nestled in a bamboo forest, is the broken-down walls of the Kaniakapupu Ruins.
These broken walls represent what was once King Kamehameha III’s summer home, originally built in 1847. It was in this summer home that King Kamehameha III would consult with his people and his chiefs, away from the prying eyes of Westerners.
37. Waikiki Aquarium
The Waikiki Aquarium is part of the University of Hawaii. Originally built in 1904, the Waikiki Aquarium is the second oldest in the United States and sees more than 300,000 visitors annually.
While visiting, you’ll see incredible marine life up close and personal—from sea horses to jellyfish, the aquarium has more than 3,000 animals in its care.
If you add the Waikiki Aquarium to your itinerary, do not miss the aquarium’s two most popular attractions, the Hawaiian Monk Seal Exhibit and the Living Reef Exhibit.
38. The Honolulu Zoo
The Honolulu Zoo is home to many unique animals you won’t have the chance to see elsewhere. From mammals and birds to reptiles and amphibians, the zoo is the perfect way to get close to wildlife without endangering it or yourself.
Pythons, tortoises, giraffes, and flamingos can all be found in the zoo. You’ll want to dedicate a full day to the zoo and its activities with dozens of exhibits.
If you’re looking for an extra memorable experience, you can stay in the park after the gates close on Saturday nights for Twilight Tours.
These tours are two hours long and will take you throughout the zoo to observe the animals at a unique time of day. Animals’ behavior changes as the sun sets, and you’ll get extra time to ask questions on the guided tour.
39. Queen Emma Summer Palace
The Queen Emma Summer Palace is another important historical site that will take your breath away. In Hawaiian, it’s called Hanaiakamalama.
This palace was home to Queen Emma of Hawaii and her husband, King Kamehameha, for nearly forty years. They raised their son, Prince Albert, in the Nu’uanu Valley.
The palace spans more than 22 thousand square feet and was saved from demolition in 1915. The Daughters of Hawaii stopped this historical site from being destroyed, and they still run it to this day.
40. The Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum is one of the best ways to learn about Polynesian culture and the history of the Hawaiian islands. The museum hosts information about native wildlife, local culture, and the history of the building itself.
The Bishop Museum has more than 25 million treasures from Hawaii and Polynesia. These items paint a picture of the Pacific islands’ history, making the museum the perfect stop for history buffs.
The Bishop Museum is also home to a planetarium, where you can see a show to learn more about the night sky overhead.
You can walk the same halls as Queen Emma alone or follow a guided tour. Whatever you decide, if you’re going to the Nu’uanu Valley, this palace is worth a stop.
41. Washington Palace
Washington Palace, completed in 1847, is an important historical landmark in Oahu history. It originally housed Mary Dominis, who named it after George Washington with permission from King Kamehameha III.
While the house was originally Mary’s, it is most known for being the home of Queen Liliuokalani, who married Mary’s son John Dominis. Queen Liliuokalani lived in the home from the time she was married until she ascended to the throne in 1891.
At Washington Palace, you can walk amongst this history and learn about the life, career, and death of Queen Liliuokalani—the last monarch of the Hawaiian islands.
42. Honolulu’s Chinatown
The Hawaiian Islands’ proximity to Asia has meant that China and Japan have significantly impacted Hawaiian culture. Honolulu is even home to its own iconic Chinatown.
Chinatown in Honolulu stretches from North Beretania to Honolulu Harbor. You’ll find a bustling and vibrant art scene within Chinatown, restaurants that blend Hawaiian and Chinese cuisine, and incredible nightlife.
43. Sea Life Park
The Sea Life Park is a perfect experience for families staying in Oahu. It is a great place to see a luau, watch marine life play and swim, and eat unique local cuisine. Sea Life Park is one of the few places where you can interact up close with dolphins and monk seals.
You’ll also get up close and personal with whitetip reef sharks, small sharks native to the waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
Whether you go to the Sea Life Park for a dolphin encounter, a seal encounter, or just to get a closer look at the penguin habitat, make sure to pre-book your tickets and passes online, as they tend to sell out during peak seasons.
44. Segway tours
One of the best ways to get a full view of Honolulu (without being in a car) is to take a Segway tour. Many companies offer Segway tours around the city, and you can bring your entire family along.
In recent years, some places have even begun to offer tours riding hoverboards- the cool older sibling of the Segway. Segways are all-terrain vehicles, and with the right tires, you can smoothly transition from the city streets to the beach and back again.
45. Golfing
There are 40 golf courses on the Island of Oahu, and each offers a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. There are options for every budget, from those who want a luxury PGA-golfing experience to those just looking to hit the course while they travel.
The Ko Olina Golf Club course offers a quintessential Hawaiian golf experience. Boasting roughly 35,000 square feet of land, waterfalls, and breathtaking views, it’s not a surprise that Ko Olina was chosen for Golf Digest’s ‘Top 75 Resort Courses in The United States.’
46. Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing, also called windsurfing, is a sport where you use a board and a small sail to glide across the water at high speeds. The best kitesurfing on Oahu is in Kailua Bay.
If you have never done this kind of surfing before, it’s best to start with an instructor who can help you learn how to navigate safely. Fortunately, Honolulu is home to plenty of kitesurfing schools that can help you get started.
Once you get going, kitesurfing can offer you the experience of a lifetime. From breathtaking views of the island from the water to the thrill of feeling like a low-flying, there is nothing like zipping across the water with only the wind to pull you along.
47. Biking
There are tons of bike trails around the island of Oahu. Whether you’re looking to experience some unique island mountain biking or you want to navigate the city’s streets, bike rental companies can get you started so you don’t have to bring your bike from home.
48. Distillery tours
Whatever your alcohol preference, you will likely find an Oahu distillery to match it. Around the island, you’ll find distilleries that produce rum, whiskey, scotch, and more. Because of the Japanese influence on the island, you can even visit a shochu (Japanese rice alcohol) or sake distillery.
49. Leonard’s Bakery
Leonard’s Bakery has been a staple of Oahu since 1952. It was opened by Leonard and Margaret DoRego, descendants of Portuguese immigrants. When they first opened the bakery, they stuck to traditional American desserts but quickly decided to include traditional Portuguese baked goods as well.
When the owners of Leonard’s included malasadas on the menu for the first time, they were reluctant. They weren’t sure if the food would take off with white Americans or natives of the island, but it was a hit with both. To this day, Leonard’s Bakery represents the blend of cultures that makes Oahu and the surrounding islands unique.
Today, the bakery serves traditional Hawaiian baked goods like Pao Doce, Portuguese foods like malasadas, and traditional American desserts like pies and cupcakes.
50. Koko Crater Botanical Garden
The Koko Crater Botanical Garden is located on the eastern side of Oahu near Honolulu. It includes sixty acres of gorgeous gardens in the basin of the 200-acre Koko Crater.
The botanical garden includes plants from Hawaii, Africa, and Madagascar. There are tropical plants as well as plants native to arid climates.
Due to the garden’s size, it is recommended that you wear good shoes and come prepared to walk. Guided tours are available, but you can also stroll through the garden alone or with your group. Most people spend about an hour and a half walking around the park.
51. Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design
The Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design offers a unique way to learn about Islamic art and design. Exhibitions are always changing, so there is always something new to explore, even if you’ve been there before.
While exhibits are always changing, the museum is home to more than 4,000 permanent objects of cultural importance from Spain, Morocco, Egypt, Syria, Iran, and more. The collection was put together over sixty years by Doris Duke.
Final thoughts
While there are many things to do on all of the Hawaiian islands, including Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii itself, Oahu offers the most diverse array of activities in the archipelago. These 51 things to do in Oahu will keep you busy whether you’re staying just for a weekend or a week.
Are you a foodie searching for the best Fort Myers restaurants? We’ve created a list of the top places to eat in the Fort Myers area just for you.
Fort Myers is a city filled with delicious restaurants and the food scene is fresh, authentic, and totally tasty. Make your trip memorable by sampling the best dishes from the Gulf Coast, from spicy Cajun fried shrimp to decadent po’boy sandwiches.
This list isn’t just for tourists—locals will enjoy it too! We’ll reveal Fort Myers restaurants that are hidden gems throughout the city. Wherever you decide to stop and grab a bite, you’ll love the hearty seafood and regional recipes.
Farmer’s Market
Farmer’s Market is a casual restaurant with Southern cuisine. It’s a great place to go for a hearty Florida-style lunch or to stop by and enjoy a quick dessert and coffee.
The restaurant is in the Southward Village neighborhood, near Dunbar Park, and the spot is just slightly south of the downtown area. It has an authentic southwest Florida feel. This restaurant is a local institution you won’t want to miss.
Farmer’s Market is the oldest restaurant in the county and the menu is tried and true. You can try a fried green tomato and bacon club sandwich or go for a fried chicken plate with homemade bread.
Bonefish Grill
Bonefish Grill is among the best restaurants in the Fort Myers area. It’s a seafood joint with a casual atmosphere, and you’ll feel right at home in this cozy space.
The restaurant is in South Fort Myers, near Cape Coral. It has a perfect location if you’re touring Lakes Park or visiting the Fort Myers beach on a sunny day.
Cool off with a chilled housemade cocktail or try a house wine during happy hour. The entrees are fun and innovative, ranging from calamari with Asian sauce to shrimp tacos with lime cream. The restaurant also offers daily specials, so check their online specials menu to see what’s on for that day.
The Lodge
The Lodge is a funky dining experience with a rustic atmosphere. The space feels like a ski lodge in the mountains even though it’s a Fort Myers restaurant! You can relax with cozy furniture, fake views of the mountains, and hearty food. The ambiance will make you forget the heat outside when you escape for some sports TV.
Their primary cuisine is BBQ with bar food bites. You can order bottomless mac and cheese, pulled pork sandwiches, and Texas-style beef brisket. Pour beers yourself from the restaurant’s taps, or have the staff whip up a fancy cocktail like the Dark and Stormy rum. There’s no better way to beat the heat!
Capone’s Coal-Fired Pizza
Capone’s Coal Fired Pizza is a jazz-themed Italian restaurant in the heart of downtown Fort Myers. It has a prohibition-era vibe, making you feel as though you’ve stepped into 1920s Chicago.
The restaurant has historical treasures decorating the walls, from authentic 1920s and 1930s clothing to newspaper clippings. The immersive pizzeria is quite popular, so you might consider booking a reservation ahead of time.
Coal-fired pizza isn’t the only thing on the menu. Try classy Italian eats like a meatball sub or fettuccine alfredo. If you want something with a southern influence, consider the Cajun chicken pasta with scallions and cream sauce.
KJ’s Steakhouse
KJ’s Steakhouse is a cheerful restaurant in the Page Park area. It has burgers, beer, steaks, and more, and the spot is ideal for a fun night out.
The restaurant has a secret spice blend and a unique cooking process that makes their steaks one-of-a-kind. Some dishes have a southern touch, like the chicken and waffles plate and the pecan chicken salad, and others draw inspiration from Asian and coastal flavors.
You can check out the western burger with BBQ sauce, bacon, and cheddar, or try an ahi tuna salad. Don’t forget a triple chocolate brownie for dessert!
CIBO
Head to Cape Coral and check out CIBO, an upscale Italian restaurant with modern cuisine. It’s on Camelot Dr, near the golf club, and you can sit down with a plate of contemporary Italian eats after a day at the Cape Coral beach.
If you’re staying at one of our waterfront locations in Cape Coral, this restaurant is just across the bridge. You can order Italian classics like traditional ravioli or penne sausage with chicken. Try angel hair pasta with mushrooms for a vegan option.
CIBO isn’t just an Italian eatery. It’s also one of the best seafood restaurants in the area. Try charred octopus, local little neck clams, and buttery scallops with basil oil.
The Veranda
The Veranda is an upscale restaurant with a refined Southern flair. It has an intimate, dimly-lit atmosphere, and the spot is ideal for couples or small groups of friends.
This Fort Myers staple has been in the city for decades, and locals and tourists love it. The restaurant is in a historic 1900s-era building and the decor is vintage and cozy. There’s a piano bar, a courtyard garden, and an outstanding wine menu. Most people dress in formal attire, and we recommend calling in a reservation.
Appetizers include southern grit cakes, grilled mushrooms, and pan-seared scallops. Try a New York strip steak off the entrée menu or sample seafood choices like sea bass and salmon.
Clam Bake
If you’re looking for New England seafood in Fort Myers, The Clam Bake might be perfect for you. It’s a laidback seafood house with a welcoming atmosphere and the recipes are all authentic New England coastal foods.
This spot is popular with tourists but locals love it too, and the restaurant is fun for a quick bite after a long day touring the city or hanging out at the beach. It’s close to many of our properties, including the Seahorse and the White Tiger.
The lobster roll is a favorite and you can’t go wrong with fried shrimp. The food and welcoming staff create a fantastic atmosphere, and if you’re a New England Patriots fan, you can watch the games on TV.
Izzy’s Fish and Oyster
Head downtown to Izzy’s Fish and Oyster for a fine dining seafood experience. It’s one of the only spots in town with a raw bar and you can sample oysters, scallops, grouper, and more at this laidback spot.
The restaurant has a modern environment and trendy global menu items, like Spanish octopus, Caribbean coconut rice with pineapple, and Greek Mahi Mahi. Or, go for a Southern classic and try a shrimp po’boy. Don’t forget to add a side of garlic-whipped potatoes!
The Krab Hut
The Krab Hut is a trendy little restaurant with casual vibes. It serves fried southern seafood, chicken, and salads. There are plenty of vegetarian options and kid-friendly meals, so everyone in your group will be satisfied.
The restaurant is in the southern area of Fort Myers, and it’s great for a quick takeout pickup. It has all the best dishes from the Gulf Coast, and you can try spicy Cajun or creamy southern menu items.
Order chicken wings by the piece or get a big crab boil to share. Try a dinner basket and you can choose your favorite meats and seafood, including scallops, flounder, and catfish.
McGregor Cafe
McGregor Cafe is a cute little bistro south of the Fort Myers Country Club. It’s on McGregor Blvd and serves tasty American food with a southern flair.
The restaurant lets you enjoy the beautiful Florida weather with an outdoor patio and you can have a draft beer underneath the shady trees. The brunch menu is a local favorite—we recommend the quiche of the day with a side of grits. Also, try a French dip sandwich with roast beef and truffle fries.
Bruno’s of Brooklyn
Bruno’s of Brooklyn brings a New York City vibe to Fort Myers. It’s an Italian restaurant that focuses on the cuisine of Sicily, and the menu ranges from vodka penne to eggplant parmesan. The meatball lasagna comes from a 70-year-old family recipe, and the dish has a hearty serving of mozzarella.
The small space has a cozy atmosphere and welcoming staff, making Bruno’s of Brooklyn an intimate and formal dining experience. If you have any gluten-free members of your group, ask the team and they’ll be happy to help.
Coya’s Artisanal Ice Cream
A day in sunny Fort Myers wouldn’t be complete without going out for ice cream! Coya’s Artisanal Ice Cream is the best in the city, with trendy flavors, unique toppings, and original recipes. It has Mexican cuisine desserts and this family-owned spot brings an authentic touch to the space.
The fresh ingredients at Coya’s include strawberries, kiwi, mangos, and coconut, and you can make your ice cream any way you like it. Try their housemade cookies if you’re not a fan of ice cream.
Mud Bugs Cajun Kitchen
Mud Bugs Cajun Kitchen is a fun restaurant with cheerful energy. It’s on Sanibel Island, not far from Estero, and the little eatery is a quick drive from our Coco Mango property.
The restaurant is a great place to enjoy live music. Head up to the top level to listen to local bands, or stay below for a quieter environment.
The outdoor bar features Cajun Bloody Marys, domestic beers, and mojitos. The baked scallops with garlic butter are fantastic, and we also recommend the blackened grouper fish.
Osteria Celli
If you like traditional Italian food, Osteria Celli might be for you. It’s a rustic spot with an open kitchen, and you can watch the chefs cook your food while you sit at the bar.
Osteria Celli uses classic Italian recipes that go back generations. Try a cozy pasta dish, potato gnocchi, or a light chicken pate. We recommend finishing your evening with a fluffy tiramisu and an Italian espresso.
King’s Kitchen and Bar
King’s Kitchen and Bar is a casual lunch restaurant in the heart of downtown Fort Myers. It’s funky and modern, and you’ll find Central American influences on classic dishes.
The Caribbean-inspired fried green plantains are delicious, and so are the hearty empanadas. For a light, refreshing dish, consider trying the Baja fish wrap or Cuban bowl with pico de gallo.
Oasis
Oasis is a no-frills American restaurant in downtown Fort Myers near Bennett Hart Park. The spot serves homey breakfast dishes, burgers, and seafood entrees.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, and pets are welcome on the outdoor patio. Order a fish and chips basket, a grilled cheeseburger, or a chicken tenders plate with coleslaw. There’s a fantastic kids’ menu for the little ones in your group, and they can choose from pancakes, chicken nuggets, and peanut butter sandwiches.
Ford’s Garage
Ford’s Garage is in the city’s bustling heart, near the Caloosahatchee riverfront. It specializes in drinks and you can choose from over 180 varieties of craft beer.
The restaurant is cozy and friendly with a real southern vibe. You can watch sports on the TV with friends, enjoy a drink, and admire the fun Ford car-themed decor.
Burgers are the main star at this relaxed eatery, and you’ll see nearly a dozen car-themed burgers on the menu. Try a High-Octane Burger with guacamole or a Model A Burger with applewood smoked bacon.
Check out the bar food menu for small bites like soft pretzels, firestone shrimp, pulled pork nachos, and more. Additionally, you can sample southern comfort food like homemade meatloaf or hand-battered chicken tenders.
Three Fishermen
For a casual spot right on the waterfront, check out Three Fishermen. It’s on the ground floor of the Best Western hotel, and it’s great for locals or anyone staying at our rental locations.
Enjoy a walk in beautiful North Shore Park before enjoying a seafood comfort meal at this cozy spot. It’s an open-air restaurant, so you can watch the waves and listen to gulls caw as you eat your meal.
The hush puppies are a southern classic you can’t miss, and we also recommend the crabmeat salad sandwich. Visit during happy hour to take advantage of the all-you-can-eat shrimp special.
Colleoni’s Italian Ristorante
Colleoni’s Italian Ristorante is a regional Italian restaurant near the McGregor area. It has a bistro feel with cafe menu items ranging from ciabatta sandwiches to smoked tomato bisque. The restaurant is inside a quaint little shopping area, and you can check out the local boutiques while waiting for a table.
Pair an Italian wine with your meal, or try a draft beer. We recommend a red wine with a plate of veal cutlets and a side of arugula salad.
Colleoni’s is famous for its excellent dessert menu. Try a Crema de Cogne, a decadent chocolate dish with almond biscuits and light, fluffy cream. Black bread pudding is another popular dish with notes of cream and chocolate.
Blanc
Blanc is an upscale restaurant in the McGregor neighborhood of Fort Myers. The global menu draws from French, Latin, and Asian cuisines, and you can sample everything from Waygu beef sliders to roasted garlic lamb.
The trendy restaurant won the Golden Spoon award in 2019, and the spot has been a staple for Fort Myers locals and tourists. You can order an Almost Entree plate to share with the whole table or get an assortment of shareable dishes.
Conclusion
Whether you’re visiting or local to Fort Myers, we guarantee you’ll enjoy these fantastic restaurants. The city is great for finding delicious dishes and there’s something for everyone, from classic Italian to casual crab boils.
If you’re staying at one of our top-rated Fort Myers properties, these restaurants are just a hop and a skip away. You can spend a day at the beach, tour historical sites downtown, or see one of the city’s iconic parks and finish at one of the best Fort Myers restaurants.
There’s no bad time to visit the Oregon Coast. From the beautiful summers to the quiet winters, it’s no wonder that we welcome so many visitors to our gorgeous region. If you’re planning your mid-year vacation, why not visit the Oregon Coast in May? With so many great events, mild weather, and beautiful homes from AvantStay, there are plenty of great reasons to start planning!
We’ve listed our favorite events on the Oregon Coast in May, but there’s plenty more to be discovered.
Visiting the Oregon Coast in May
The Oregon Coast weather in May tends to stay in the upper-50s to low-60s. Nighttime temperatures drop to the mid-to-upper-40s. Days can alternate between clear skies and Northwest liquid sunshine (otherwise known as rain showers). If you’re worried about being stuck inside, don’t be – there are normally enough sun breaks to get out to play on the beach and enjoy some sightseeing. Aside from the beautiful weather, May also brings an exciting lineup of festivals and activities so there’s no shortage of things to do. From tasting some of Oregon’s renowned wines to meet and greets with local authors, you’ll definitely want to set aside a weekend or two to visit Cannon Beach in May. Of course, don’t forget about Mother’s Day! Your mom is sure to feel extra special with a trip to the beach.
Spring Unveiling Arts Festival
Every year, the members of the Cannon Beach Gallery Group host the Spring Unveiling Arts Festival. During the weekend, typically the first in May, galleries around Cannon Beach display new works as well as host demonstrations and talks with their top artists. One of the highlights of the event is the receptions, where visitors can speak with the artists. You’ll also get to sample some delicious cuisine made by local restaurants – with menu items being inspired by the works of art from the festival. You may even get to hear some live music in the galleries. If you’re an art-lover, you won’t want to miss this great event!
Get Lit at the Beach
From wine to art to literature: there truly is an event for everyone along the Oregon Coast in May! Get Lit at the Beach is known as a gathering for readers. This festival also takes place in Cannon Beach, during the second-to-last weekend of May. The festival features author talks, book signings, and moderated q&a sessions. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or a voracious reader, you’ll love attending the events at Get Lit at the Beach!
Month-Wide Events
Enjoy Peak Oregon Coast Clamming
May is the start of clam season in Oregon, so it’s an excellent time to partake in one of the region’s most iconic traditions! Keep an eye on the tide charts. It looks like in 2019, there are going to be two weekends with minus tides. This is the best time for clamming, so guests staying with us for those weekends will have an easy time of it! Guests in our Rockaway Beach rental homes won’t have to search far for prime clamming spots. You’ll find plenty to enjoy right out the back door!
Oregon Wine Month
May is Oregon’s official state-wide Wine Month! There’s no better time for wine aficionados to visit. Many wineries hold special events during the month. These can range from classes in wine tasting to concerts. You may even find an art class or a movie night. Oregon’s wine scene is impressive, with over 500 wineries in the Willamette Valley. If you’re in town for Mother’s Day, swing by The Wine Shack in Cannon Beach for a special tasting! For more information about local wineries, including vineyards near the Coast, check out our blog detailing everything you need to know about wine country in Oregon!
Source: The Wine Shack
Stay with AvantStay
The first step to planning your trip to the Oregon Coast in May is to book a home with Starfish Vacation Rentals! We have an incredible selection of upscale homes along the Coast, from ocean view properties boasting beautiful views to pet-friendly rentals where the whole family can stay. Be sure to look at our guest services to further enhance your stay with us. From onsite massages to a dinner cooked by your own personal chef, we are happy to arrange extra touches to elevate your vacation to extraordinary. Check the full list of our rentals and book today! We look forward to having you.
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.
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.”
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.
Just like that, tax season is here. This not-so-festive time of year can be stressful for short-term rental owners, but it doesn’t have to be. Preparation is key when it comes to filing your taxes. Our guide will make this often tedious process a breeze. We’ll cover unique vacation rental tax rules, deductions, and everything in between.
The filing deadline to submit 2024 tax returns is on April 15, 2025.
The 14-day rule
One of the most important vacation rental tax rules is the 14-day rule. According to the IRS, if a property is used as a home and you rent it out for less than 14 days in the tax year, you do not have to report income generated. On the other hand, if you rent your property for 14 days or more, you have to report your income and are subject to taxes. Luckily, you can deduct expenses that come from running your short-term rental, but more on that later.
If you stayed at your vacation rental home for more than 14 days, or more than 10% of the total time rented, things get a little tricky. When reporting your expenses, you’ll have to categorize them by rental use and personal use. The IRS considers personal use as any time you or someone in your family occupies your vacation rental. It’s also considered personal use if you rent your home to anyone for “less than a fair rental price.” If you need to stay at your property to work on home maintenance projects, those stays don’t count toward your personal use days. Just be sure to document the time and reason for your stay.
1031 Exchanges
Short-term rental investors should leverage the tax benefits of a 1031 exchange. In short, a 1031 exchange is the act of “swapping” one investment property for another like-kind property. If you meet the requirements of 1031, you’re able to defer capital gains tax on the sale. Investors can use a 1031 exchange to purchase a vacation rental property, as long as the home is rented for more than 14 days in the tax year. The rules and requirements of 1031 exchanges can be complicated, so short-term rental investors should work with a tax professional before making any moves.
Short-term rental tax deductions
If you rent your home out for more than 14 days, you’re able to deduct the expenses of running your short-term rental business from your income. Common short-term rental tax deductions include:
One thing to keep in mind is the difference between repairs and improvements. Most repair costs can be considered tax write-offs, while home improvement costs can be a little more complicated. A repair is when you fix something that is damaged or broken, while an improvement adds value to your vacation rental. Examples of improvements include room additions, installing a pool, upgrading your appliances, and more. Divvy up these expenses and keep detailed, accurate records and receipts.
We also suggest using IRS Publication 527 as your go-to resource for all vacation rental tax questions and consider working with a tax professional to help with the nuances of these deductions.
Schedule C vs. Schedule E
When filing your vacation rental taxes, you’ll have to choose the right 1040 form. The two main options for short-term rentals are Schedule C and Schedule E. With Schedule C, you’re subject to a self-employment tax which is used to fund Medicare and Social Security. With Schedule E, your rental income is considered passive and you’re not subject to the self-employment tax.
For both forms, you’ll need to provide documented expenses, 1099s for contractor payments, property usage schedule, and gross rental income. Here’s how to determine which form you should file:
Schedule C
Use the Schedule C form if managing your short-term rental is your primary business and you provide guests with substantial services during their stay. Examples of substantial services include:
Substantial services don’t include the cleaning of public areas, paying utilities, repairs and maintenance, providing WiFi, etc.
Schedule E
Use the Schedule E form if your short-term rental is a way to generate additional income and you don’t provide substantial services or enough involvement for the IRS to consider you a self-employed vacation rental manager.
Local laws for vacation rental taxes
Vacation rental tax laws vary by state and local governments. Some jurisdictions require hosts to collect occupancy taxes directly from guests. These taxes are also known as lodging, hotel, or transient taxes depending on the location. Several online travel agencies (OTAs), like Airbnb, collect occupancy taxes on behalf of vacation rental hosts, but this also varies by location. In most cases, you will be responsible for collecting and remitting any taxes. For this reason, it’s essential that you understand your local vacation rental tax laws and payment schedules.
Partner with an expert
Ditch the operational headache of running a short-term rental on your own (and avoid self-employment taxes) by hiring a vacation rental management company. When you partner with AvantStay, you get access to our Policy & Compliance team which ensures your home is compliant and operating within all regulations governed by HOAs and other local authorities. We collect all required taxes from guests directly and report and remit taxes on your behalf in compliance with local regulations. We also provide a detailed year-end statement that includes all expenses categorized according to Schedule E. Another perk? Your management fee could be tax deductible!
Looking for the best restaurants in ATX? Let’s taco ‘bout it (breakfast tacos, specifically).
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or just want to spice up your dining experience at home, you’re entering a foodie’s heaven here. From someone who used to be an Austin local (expat if you will), this lineup is filled with all you need from breakfast tacos to ramen, sushi to specialty pizza, and Tex Mex to BBQ. Even if you’re not hungry right now, you definitely will be after reading this. Bon appétit!
Source: DoorDash
Koriente
Located in downtown Austin is a hidden gem known as Koriente – a pan-Asian restaurant and tea house managed by owner Jay Lee and his mother. They treat customers to a diverse array of balanced and delicious dishes, catering to every dietary preference from vegan to gluten-free. Some of our favorite dishes include miso-honey-glazed mahi mahi, curries with rice medallions, and japchae. You can order takeout, but we recommend dining in for the full experience.
Ramen Tatsu-ya
Ramen Tatsu-ya is a collaboration between local chefs and DJs, Tatsu Aikawa and Takuya Matsumoto. The duo met when they were hip-hop DJs in the Austin scene and the rest is history. From their legendary broth to the best backyard in all of ATX, this spot is a must-see.
Bufalina Pizza
Craving pizza? Head to Bufalina. Owner Steven Dilley and team are here to wow with Neapolitan-style pizzas. The margherita pizza here is always a winner, but don’t miss out on specials like their potato and Parmesan pie. As far as salads go, we recommend the stracciatella and Caesar salads. And wine connoisseurs, you’re in luck with two wine managers and a director on staff – the selection here is everything.
Source: Austin Chronicle
Birdie’s
If there’s one thing I miss most about living in Austin, it’s a trip to Birdie’s. This is one of the best laid-back wine bars in East Austin. It won Austin’s Best Neighborhood Wine Bar back in 2021, has an adorable patio, and features an ever-evolving menu with gorgeous dishes. A trip here ensures delicious handmade pastas, steak and vegetables, and seasonal appetizers that go perfect with their wine collection. Make sure to save room for dessert!
Nixta Taqueria
Chef Edgar Rico and Sara Mardanbigi co-own this charming and quirky taqueria with multiple patios and a carefully curated natural wine list. Nixta Taqueria’s culinary skills shine through with modern, flavorful takes on tacos and tostadas, making it one of our favorite spots in East Austin.
Lin Asian Bar + Dim Sum
Chef Ling Qi Wu oversees several restaurants across Austin. But it is here at Lin, her first restaurant, where you can truly experience her forte—simple yet refined Chinese and pan-Asian delicacies, ranging from her treasured soup dumplings to delectable Hakka eggplants and admirable salt-and-pepper lobster tails. Hungry yet? Same.
Source: The House
Buzz Mill
Two words: breakfast tacos. This trendy 24-hour hangout, tucked away in the unassuming heart of Riverside, serves up some of our favorite brekky tacos. Paired with their honey lavender latte, you’ve scored a perfect morning. Come to Buzz Mill later for happy hour or a comedy show where you can enjoy their homemade infused vodkas and a wide range of eats from one of the many food trucks outside.
Stubb’s
Stubb’s is a legendary must-have for all BBQ enthusiasts. With its rich history and delectable smoked meats, Stubb’s has earned a reputation as a local favorite and a go-to spot for visitors alike. On summer nights, you can step outside for live music at Stubb’s Amphitheater—the best place to dance off that pulled pork sandwich you just devoured in 5 seconds.
Kitty Cohen’s
Kitty Cohen’s is a trendy restaurant and cocktail bar just oozing with retro charm and laid-back vibes. Known for its chic and stylish poolside setting, this hotspot is the place for cooling off on hot Texas days while sipping on creative and refreshing cocktails and snacking on light bites.
Mour Cafe
Mour Cafe is a farm-to-table gem with a dreamy patio and cozy seating. This charming cafe is beloved for its delectable menu, offering a healthy range of comfort foods, artisanal coffee, and charming baked goods.
Source: Conde Naste Traveler
June’s All Day
June’s All Day is giving us all that Parisian bistro charm with a modern twist. This trendy spot is renowned for its delectable all-day dining options. If you’re brunching and feel a little rough from last night, we recommend their chicken sandwich—it’s everything.
Bar 508
This wouldn’t be a proper Austin blog without including our favorite mezcal bar. Bar 508 is one of the most vibrant buildings found in the cultural district with a variety of sweet and spicy mezcal cocktails. Order the El Diablo, a delicious concoction of mezcal, blackberry, cassis, lime and ginger beer. When you’re nice and hungry, go next door to Pelóns for world-class Tex Mex.
1618 Asian Fusion
1618 Asian Fusionis home to exactly that, a fusion of Asian dishes. From Vietnamese to Thai, Chinese and Singaporean food this spot caters to every taste bud. We recommend going for Dim Sum Brunch on Sunday and getting their shrimp and chive dumplings or liu sha bao (salted egg yolk lava steamed bun) – and a bottle of champagne, of course.
Source: ABA
ABA
Bringing Middle Eastern influences with a Texan flair, ABA’s menu features a wide array of mouthwatering mezze plates, grilled meats, and flavorful seafood dishes. Our dream day at ABA includes dining outside on the charming patio and ordering the spicy lamb ragu.
Two Hands
Come to Two Hands for an unforgettable brunch. Known for their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant boasts a menu with the freshest flavors of Texas. We recommend ordering the coconut yoghurt, the Two Hands crispy chili fries, and the chicken schnitzel roll.
Paperboy
Ok now we’re in the brunch mood. Head to Paperboy for obsession-worthy Migas and Texas hash. After you’re nice and Paloma’d up, take a walk around East 11th street for cute local shops, like Vintage Bookstore and Wine Bar.
Source: Open Table
Group Therapy
Group Therapy, located in Hotel Zaza, is favorite amongst locals for its eclectic dining area and diverse menu with a Texan twist on global flavors. Whether you’re meeting up with friends for drinks and small bites or indulging in a full meal, Group Therapy is definitely worth a visit.
Iron Cactus
More Tex Mex! Iron Cactus is a beloved Tex-Mex restaurant that has been serving up delicious dishes since 1996. From sizzling fajitas to refreshing margaritas, this spot offers a delightful dining experience that we think perfectly captures the spirit of Austin’s culinary scene.
Cenote
Your dream breakfast restaurant patio? Oh, that’s Cenote. This quirky and charming cafe is a total treat for your taste buds…and your IG feed. With awe-inspiring breakfast bites, fabulous lattes, and a whimsical ambiance, Cenote is a must-see.
Source: Lou’s
Lou’s
Lou is a true foodie’s paradise, where every dish is crafted with passion and creativity. This restaurant has gained a loyal following for its inventive and flavorful menu (and mainly its chicken) that deserves a huge thumbs up.
Rosita’s Al Pastor
You know the tacos are about to change your life when there’s no website. Rosita’s Al Pastoris a food truck, drive-thru, and dine-in restaurant located in Riverside. It’s in the name, so you know what to do—order the al pastor tacos. Make sure to get one of each of their salsas, too.
Barton by AvantStay
Experience the Best of Austin Dining and Stay with AvantStay
If you’re searching for the perfect places to stay in ATX, our Austin vacation rentals have just what you need. Spend the day indulging, then return to a peaceful home-away-from-home with all the amenities you’re used to. Comfortable bedrooms, spacious backyards with pools and spectacular views are just some of the things you’ll enjoy during your stay. We look forward to having you!
Want more tips for your trip to Austin? See our ATX blogs here:
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 ☺).
Allowing pets in your vacation rental can be a rewarding decision. It’s no surprise that Americans love their furry friends and loyal travel companions—66% of US households own a pet and since November 2022, over 3 million pets have stayed at an Airbnb. So, why not tap into this large market to fill up your booking calendar and increase your rental income? If you’re on the fence about making your vacation rental pet-friendly, we’ll cover the perks, how to protect your home, and how to drive more bookings from pet owners.
Why you should allow pets
There are many benefits that come from allowing pets in vacation rentals. When you partner with AvantStay, your pet-friendly rental will shine on our platform. Only 37% of AvantStay homes allow pets, and we showcase these properties with a dedicated filter and “pet-friendly” icons (check out our pet-friendly vacation rentals collection that makes it easy for travelers to find the perfect pad for their pooch). In addition, owners with pet-friendly homes often enjoy:
Increased earning potential
Not all vacation rentals allow pets, so you can charge higher ADRs for this special accommodation. You can also charge guests non-refundable pet fees—for example, AvantStay charges $150 per pet
Guests booking longer stays
Because guests won’t have to leave Fido at home, they’ll likely book longer stays without the stress of boarding or finding a pet sitter.
More repeat guests
Finding the perfect pet-friendly vacation rental can be tough, so guests will likely be eager to book again after having a positive experience at your home.
How to make your vacation rental pet-friendly
While you may be dwelling on the cons and what-ifs of allowing pets in your vacation home, there are simple measures you can take to protect your rental property and create an exceptional experience for guests and pets alike.
Keep it clean
Hire a reliable housekeeping team who will thoroughly clean between each stay. Add extra steps to your cleaning checklist for pet-friendly vacation rentals, like deep cleaning the floors and furniture.
Prepare your space
Pet-proof your home as much as possible so your vacation rental can go the distance. Invest in HEPA air purifiers to reduce odor and dander, opt for tile or laminate flooring over carpet, purchase washable area rugs, and choose furniture with easy-to-remove (and wash) coverings. In addition, make sure your backyard is secured so pets can enjoy themselves off-leash.
Update your house rules
Update your house rules to reflect your pet policy. Be sure to include the number of pets allowed, any weight or breed restrictions, and off-limit areas for animals. If you have any fees or security deposits that cover pet accidents or damages, list those here as well.
Provide pet-friendly amenities
Impress your guests and reel in five-star ratings by supplying pup-approved amenities. Make sure you include these on your listing page or pre-check-in communications so guests don’t waste time packing them themselves. Consider providing:
Water and food bowls
Dog bed
Waste bags
Chew toys
Leash
Grooming supplies
Treats
Stain and odor removers
How to boost bookings from pet owners
Once your vacation rental is equipped to welcome pets, showcase it to the world. These simple tips can help you reach more pet owners and increase bookings.
Update and optimize your listing
When updating your headline and description, incorporate search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to further boost your reach to pet owners. Research search terms (“keywords”) that are popular in your market and add those to your listing. Some examples could be “dog-friendly Joshua Tree vacation rental” or “private beachfront cottage – pets allowed.”
In addition, entice potential guests to click “book now” by showcasing your pet amenities and listing nearby dog-friendly activities and attractions. Include these in your welcome book and pre-check-in communications so guests can easily access them.
Market to pet owners
Give your marketing strategy a revamp to make your pet-friendly rental shine; these tactics can help you target more pet owners.
Leverage niche listing sites
While you should list your home on all of the top distribution platforms, you can reach more pet owners by using pet-friendly listing sites. A popular option is BringFido, a pet travel and lifestyle brand that connects pet owners with more than 500,000 pet-friendly places, including vacation rental homes.
Tap into social media
Social media is a great way to reach new audiences and keep your past guests engaged. Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are popular among travelers looking to plan their next trip, so be sure to show off your home and its pet-approved amenities across these sites. Also, ask guests to capture photos of their pets enjoying your vacation rental so you can share them across your accounts.
Use paid advertising
Social media ads can amplify your reach to pet owners. 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.
Pet-friendly vacation rentals by AvantStay
Making your property pet-friendly can be rewarding, but can also take a lot of work and is not without its risks. We set the new standard for vacation rentals by delivering a consistent, high-quality vacation experience for both homeowners and guests. One of the ways we’re able to do this is with our experiences and upgrades. Guests can use our app to schedule mid-stay cleans, request amenities like treats, toys, and dog beds, ask for custom pet-friendly itineraries and local recommendations, and much more. This level of service drives some of the highest ratings in the industry, repeat guests, and allows us to charge premium daily rates.
For homeowners, you have the choice to allow pets in your vacation rental or not, but you’ll always receive best-in-class care with AvantStay. At your home, our local operations teams manage maintenance, upkeep, and surveillance, while our housekeeping team professionally cleans after every stay in adherence with CDC cleaning standards and our 100-point cleaning checklist—say goodbye to unwanted pet hair!
Although guests are responsible for treating your property respectfully, there may be instances in which damages or pet accidents occur. We ensure any issues are fixed promptly and work with guests to determine what happened and collect the necessary payment.
Employing a combination of our best-in-class care, streamlined back-end operations, and elevated hospitality brand, AvantStay helps you earn more revenue than any other property management company. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s returns—it’s that simple.
Thanksgiving, and therefore, Friendsgiving is right around the corner. Time to spend time with your chosen family! But don’t settle for your run-of-the-mill potluck this year. You’ve got a great friend group and you all deserve a pre-holiday celebration just as special as you are. Listed below are our 9 favorite ways to elevate your Friendsgiving at an AvantStay vacation rental.
1. Room for the whole crew
Delmont – Smoky Mountains, TN
Easily turn one meal into one weekend with plenty of space for your group to spread out and let the food coma settle in. Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, Delmont is a 20-guest stay with four floors, a hot tub, pool, game room, yard space, two spacious living rooms, and two dining tables – perfect for a proper feasting sesh.
2. Pump up the vibe with pre-feast activities
Clove – Hudson Valley, NY
Get everyone excited with festive pre-feast activities at one of our homes in Hudson Valley! Clove is just a short drive away from all the great fall activities like visiting pumpkin patches, leaf peeping, and roasting marshmallows. Hot tip: get ready to make cider or apple pie from fresh apples – this home is close to multiple local apple orchards.
3. You don’t have to cook
Pyramid – Sedona, AZ
Not interested in cooking? No problem. Have us coordinate a private chef for you and yours directly from our app! We recommend a stay at Pyramid in Sedona where you can soak up the views while you soak in the hot tub. With ample seating for everyone, you can easily watch a culinary artist in their element without ever having to worry about being in the way.
4. Enjoy plenty of activities for the group
Bay Breeze – Newport Beach
It doesn’t have to be all about the food. Our homes have tons to do for those in your group that just can’t sit still. For a fun-filled stay, try Friendsgiving weekend at Bay Breeze in Newport Beach, CA. This 10-guest bayside home has multiple dining areas, a fully-stocked kitchen, a basketball court, paddleboards, a fire pit, and a stocked game area.
5. Say “au revoir” to post-meal cleaning
Homewood – Lake Tahoe, CA
Take the pressure out of hosting (and cleaning) with a stay at Homewood in Lake Tahoe – the ideal stay for a nature lover who just can’t get enough of that fresh mountain air. We’ve got you covered pre- and mid-stay – with fully-stocked kitchens and the option to book a mid-stay cleaning, we’re here to make your Friendsgiving as worry-free as can be.
6. Experience a change in scenery
Belmont – San Diego, CA
Soak in new views surrounded by your favorite company. Located right on the water, Belmont is a San Diego stay with all the ocean views you can handle. Experience the perfect blend of indoor/outdoor living with an extra spacious dining and living room, a grill on the balcony, and a chance to show off your mixologist skills with a cocktail and “cheers” to this extra-dreamy view.
7. Cook like a proper chef in our gourmet kitchens
Take advantage of an array of spacious, gourmet kitchens in Coachella Valley. This sprawling estate comes complete with an outdoor kitchen, pool, hot tub, ping pong table, equestrian barn, wet bar, paddle boards, kayaks, paddle boat, and a private lake surrounding the property.
8. Try Friendsgiving al fresco
Burgundy – Temecula, CA
Why not try an outdoor kitchen this year? Come to Burgundy where you can blend an indoor chef’s kitchen with the outdoor kitchen and a tasteful, locally sourced Temecula wine. After your meal, enjoy sunset cocktails under the gazebo or around the fireplace and toast to special moments shared with your favorite people. With this undeniably winning combo, you’ve just landed the Friendsgiving dream of the century.
9. Get an excuse to escape the city
Fiano – Sonoma, CA
We’re all looking for a reason, right? Try a stay at Fiano in Sonoma where you’ll enjoy large outdoor dining areas and a proper escape from the city hustle and bustle. Gather inside or out around these spacious dining areas with vineyard-esque decor. Keep the journey going with a short trip out into wine country for a new type of Friendsgiving adventure that your friends will talk about for years.
Tired of the same old routine for your corporate retreats? Ready to shake things up and take your team to new levels of productivity and relaxation? Look no further than AvantStay’s Polo Villas. Nestled in a serene neighborhood, our villas offer the perfect blend of luxury and functionality, ensuring your corporate retreat is a resounding success.
Elevate Your Experience
At the Polo Villas, we understand the importance of balancing work and play. That’s why we offer spacious accommodations equipped with everything you need for a productive and rejuvenating retreat. Say goodbye to cramped meeting rooms and hello to expansive living areas with ample space for brainstorming sessions and team-building exercises.
For Tight-Knit Teams
If your team thrives on intimacy and privacy, our Polo Villas homes are the perfect choice. Each villa features 5+ bedrooms, complete with en-suites and office spaces for maximum comfort and productivity. Whether you’re hashing out big ideas or simply unwinding after a long day of work, our villas provide the ideal environment for fostering team cohesion.
For Full-Suite Teams
For larger groups looking to make a statement, why not book the entire Polo Villas neighborhood? With 18 homes accommodating up to 100 guests, you’ll have exclusive access to pools, manicured backyards, and all the amenities you need for an unforgettable retreat. It’s the ultimate way to show your team how much you value their hard work and dedication.
For the Team That Deserves It
Experience ultimate luxury with our newest Polo Villas homes: The Reserve. Open to bookings as of April 1st, these modern marvels are designed to impress. Featuring bocce and pickleball courts, private pools, and more, The Reserve offers the perfect blend of sophistication and relaxation. Treat your team to an unforgettable experience they’ll be talking about for years to come.
Seize the Retreat
Ready to take your corporate retreat to the next level? Contact us today to book your retreat at thePolo Villas. With our expertly crafted accommodations and unparalleled amenities, your team is sure to leave feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead. Your ultimate corporate retreat awaits.
Even More to Offer
We have so much more to offer when it comes to extraordinary experiences. Check out these other blog posts where we dive into more of what makes AvantStay a cut above the rest:
Apart from its seamless group travel experience and a plentiful selection of luxury in-app upgrades, AvantStay homes are in primo locations—even more than just Coachella Valley. Click here to see all our destinations and we’ll see you soon!
Whether you’re on vacation and cooking for everyone, hosting a potluck, or hiring a private chef, we have a gourmet kitchen equipped with all the tools you’ll need for a great meal. From baking enthusiasts to full-time foodies – we promise to bring a culinary experience so good you’ll never have to worry about leaving your hobbies at home again.
The Rejuvenator, Temecula
Get your R&R on by the pool while your private chef prepares the perfect meal inside this luxurious kitchen. With room for up to 13 guests, Pinot Point’s farmhouse kitchen comes with a Butler’s Pantry, two dishwashers, warming drawers, a pot filler, and an open layout perfect for cooks. Store your leftovers in the built-in fridge and freezer, and cheers to a meal well done by the firepit at this Temecula, CAoasis.
The Photographer, Coachella
Phone eats first at Villa Verbena – a Coachella Valley paradise. This stay comes complete with all the photogenic places to snap your food in multiple dining areas. Snap a pic of your paella on the island cooktop with thecanopy hood in the background, for extra drama. Head outside for a nature-filled shot with views of the San Jacinto mountains around you. Finish it off with a group shot – this home can fit up to 26 guests, so everyone’s invited!
The Jetsetter, Park City
Want to feel like you’re in Europe without the cross-Atlantic flight? Yes, chef! Feel like you’re cooking in Italy in this Mediterranean-style kitchen with a Viking stove, Viking refrigerator/ freezer, granite countertops, and all high-end appliances. Once you’re nice and stuffed, head to downtownPark City Mountain and get your ski on. Come back to Telemark Luxury Retreat and hit the hot tub after a day on the slopes.
The Nature Lover, Destin
Taste the rainbow at Monarch. Soak up some Vitamin D while ingesting the rest of your vitamins at this 20-person stay in Destin, FL. When you’re not basking in the glory of the two majestic kitchen islands, or using the outdoor kitchen, try serving up snacks at the swim-up bar.
The Home Body, Oregon Coast
Sugar, spice, and everything nice. Welcome to the oh-so-cozy Neahkahnie Hideaway, nestled along the Oregon Coast. What could be better than cozying up to the fireplace after baking your favorite banana bread and sipping on your favorite perfectly chilled sauvignon blanc? Oh wait, we know. Enjoying all of those things in this home’s secluded barrel hot tub, *chefs kiss.*
The Adventurer, Paso Robles
Mermaid’s one for those who like to stay active even on vacay. Spend days bouncing around from the themed pool to the volleyball court ‘til it’s time to come inside and play Dance Dance Revolution (where you’ll really work up a feast.) Whether you’re cooking with wine, or just drinking it, this 14-guest vacation home in Paso Robles has a kitchen for the whole crew: with an oversized main dining table, additional food prep sink, and lovely pastel-colored kitchen.
The Techie, Berkshires
Chester comes with a smart fridge because every group has that person who always has to have a screen in front of them. Located in the Berkshires, MA, this stay can fit up to 12 guests and has views so good, you won’t want to miss a second of them for a chef-sesh. Good thing you don’t have to – this kitchen comes with panoramic windows giving you all those mountain views around the clock.
The Organizer, Austin
Start your ovens. Ramsey is a potluck dreamspace in Austin, TX with room for up to 8 guests. Spread out in this large kitchen with granite countertops ideal for creating the ultimate feast after a day of activities. Not sure what to do in ATX? Check out our guide here.
The Thrill Seeker, Smoky Mountains
For two many cooks in the kitchen. This space has two kitchens (one on each floor), double appliances, a dual-level breakfast bar, and dining seating for 18 people. Like trying new things? Come to Pine Rise in the Smokies where you can cook in a different kitchen every day! Experience a little bit of everything on your National Park vacation and a little bit of everything in the kitchen.
The Sight-Seer, Austin
If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen! And we don’t just mean the Texas heat. Not only is this 11,000+ sq ft. home a sight to see on its own, but it’s right in the middle of downtown Austin, where you’ll easily experience all you want to while you’re crossing ATX off your bucket list. Paramount Place comes with a full kitchen, two partial kitchens, and so much more you’ll just have to see for yourself. Everything’s bigger in TX, right?
Still hungry? We don’t blame ya. Check out even more Gourmet Kitchensyou can treat yourself to on your next vacation.
