Many parents are already planning their family’s summer trip as children across the country make the most of their seasonal break from school. But, for those families who are still browsing for summer vacation ideas in 2024, you’ve come to the right place! AvantStay offers vacation homes designed for families in over 30 destinations across the country, from the Hawaiian Islands to the Smoky Mountains. Imagine exploring the great American national parks together in California or soaking up the summer sunshine on Florida beaches. Whatever your vacation dreams may be, AvantStay is here to help you discover the best summer getaway for you and your family!
Breckenridge, CO
Breckenridge, Colorado, is one of our favorite summer vacation spots for families who love the great outdoors and taking in the natural beauty of America. There are dozens of family-friendly nature activities such as hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, and even summer dog sledding! You will also find plenty of kid-centric activities along historic Main Street, from playgrounds to arcades and escape rooms. Read AvantStay’s 40 Best Things To Do in Breckenridge and browse our Breckenridge rentals for the perfect vacation home for your family.
Palm Springs, CA
You may be surprised to see Palm Springs on this list, but when the spring breakers head home, this California city offers a little something for everyone. Curious youngsters can spend their summer learning new things at the dozens of Palm Springs museums. And adventurous families are a short road trip away from endless outdoor activities at Joshua Tree National Park. Parents can take a day trip to one of the wineries nearby. If a trip to Palm Springs is on your bucket list, then make sure to check out our 33 Things To Do in Palm Springs article so you see all the good spots! Discover our Palm Springs properties to find the best rental for your family.
Destin, FL
If your family is searching for summer vacation ideas at the beach on the East coast, look no further than Destin, Florida! The pristine white sand contrastedIf your family is searching for summer vacation ideas on the East Coast, look no further than Destin, Florida! The pristine white sand contrasted with the Gulf’s emerald invites travelers of all ages to snorkel, paddleboard, boat, and fish all summer long. Stay directly on the beach with our Weekender three-bedroom vacation home in Destin, and make the most of your seaside vacation.
Austin, TX
Spend your summer in the world’s live music capital and discover endless family-friendly fun in Austin, Texas. There’s something for all ages to enjoy, from hands-on museums and aquariums to biking trails at the Stephen F. Austin State Park and natural springs to cool off from the summertime Texas heat. Our vacation homes, Paramount and Emos, are in the heart of downtown Austin so your family can easily explore the city’s art and culture, as well as soak up the #keepaustin weird vibes!
Cannon Beach, OR
If you’ve been dreaming of a summer vacation on the rocky coastline of the Pacific Northwest, consider Cannon Beach, Oregon. Located just 90 minutes west of Portland, this charming coastal town is home to beautiful beaches, historic lighthouses, scenic hiking trails, and unique wildlife. AvantStay offers several oceanfront homes in Cannon Beach, including Driftaway and Chapman Cove.
Discover Your Summer Vacation Destination with AvantStay®
Still, looking for more summer vacation ideas? Discover AvantStay’s collection of over 900 vacation homes in 35+ destinations across the US. No matter where you decide to spend your summer, you’ll have everything you need at our properties, fully equipped with upscale amenities. Discover your home away from home with AvantStay this summer!
If you’ve ever watched a movie set in LA and thought of living like a celebrity, now you can too! Private pools, sweeping city views, fancy kitchens, and backyards that basically demand an afternoon spritz.
With these Los Angeles Airbnbs, whether you’re heading to town for sunshine, sushi, or stargazing from the sky and the sidewalk, these homes are your backstage pass to everything iconic about Los Angeles.
From the hills of Hollywood to the beaches of Venice, we’ve rounded up the 10 top-rated LA homes that make you feel like you’re starring in your own show. You deserve a setting worthy of the spotlight, and these homes are more than places to crash.
Hollywood Overlook
If you’ve ever dreamed of living like a star, Hollywood Overlook is your golden ticket. Perched in the Hollywood Hills West, this ultra-modern stunner delivers stunning city views that make you feel like the star of the show. Imagine golden hour cocktails on the patio with the skyline sparkling below—chef’s kiss. Soak in the private pool solo, this place is giving “main character energy” from every angle.
Why this one’s a total scene-stealer:
Breathtaking panoramic views of the LA skyline
Private pool, hot tub, fire pit, and luxe outdoor lounge setup
Chic interiors with floor-to-ceiling windows and ultra-modern design
Chef’s kitchen, spa-like bathrooms, and dreamy bedrooms
Located minutes from the Sunset Strip, Runyon Canyon & the Walk of Fame
Calling all vintage lovers and design dreamers, Art Deco is where Gatsby meets Hollywood in the hills. This show-stopping estate in the San Fernando Valley channels 1920s glam with bold architecture, geometric flair, and just the right amount of drama. From the moody velvet finishes to the pop of colors in the house, every inch feels like it belongs in a classic film scene or on the cover of a magazine.
Why this one’s a total scene-stealer:
Iconic interior design with bold, cinematic interiors
Fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances
Sleek living area with an open concept
Brand new Casper mattresses and a 55” TV in the living room
Close to boutiques, theater, studios, shopping & nightlife
If luxury had a zip code, it’d be Dos Palos. A modern Ranch-style home located in the hills of Los Angeles with jaw-dropping city views, sleek architecture, and a cozy backyard. Experience the full Hollywood dream mode and feel the glam as you sip something bubbly as the sun sets over the skyline. Plus, a spa-level serenity with lush greenery and trees surrounding the house, nothing beats relaxation to a whole new level.
Why this one’s a total scene-stealer:
Iconic hilltop location with panoramic city views
Serene garden, trees, shade, a large landscaped yard, and an outdoor patio
Unique house features such as a covered meditation “yurt” and a hidden bedroom!
Chic and modern open concept house interior
Near Beverly Hills, Runyon Canyon, and the Sunset Strip
Cue the cinematic ocean views—Pacific View is your A-list escape perched high in the Pacific Palisades, where the mountains meet the sea and every sunrise feels like a paparazzi moment. This luxurious cliffside villa channels coastal-cool energy for a morning coffee or champagne toast. It’s the kind of home where you could live your next rom-com, host a post-Oscar brunch, or simply vibe out to the sound of the waves.
Why this home steals the spotlight:
Show-stopping views of the LA Skyline from every room
Designer interiors and open-concept living, perfect for entertaining
Hot tub, fire pit, BBQ grill, and outdoor lounge space
Luxe bedrooms with gym equipment, pool table, and mini bar
Private and serene, yet just minutes from Malibu and Santa Monica
Tucked just a block off LA’s beloved Montana Avenue, 2111 Montana is a cool celebrity hideaway. This ultra-modern duplex home serves up sleek style and laid-back luxury in equal measure, with polished concrete floors, dramatic lighting, and open living spaces. Better yet? It’s part of a chic pair. Book 2111 for your own private and extended getaway, or combine it with 2113 Montana just above if you are coming with another group for the ultimate entourage stay.
Why this one’s a total scene-stealer:
Just a stroll from Montana Ave’s shops, cafes & buzz
Backyard with beautiful lavender bushes
Outdoor patio for ocean breeze and twinkle lights
Can be booked with 2113 Montana for large groups or dual families
Close to Sunset Junction, Grand Central Market, and the Silverlake Reservoir
*Please note that both houses are only available for stays of 30 nights or longer.
Oak Hills is your private, palm-lined escape from the LA scene without being too far from the action. This villa is tucked on top of the rolling hills of Sherman Oaks, which has a sprawling layout, luxe finishes, and a backyard built for poolside hangs and champagne clinks. Whether you’re planning a girls’ getaway, a family trip, or a long weekend with your inner circle, Oak Hills brings the star power.
Why this one’s a total scene-stealer:
Overlooking views of LA with viewing spots by the house
Resort-style pool and spa surrounded by palms and loungers
Huge layout with musical instruments and spa beds
Gorgeous open kitchen perfect for catered dinners or DIY brunches
Just a short drive to Malibu, Topanga, and Studio City
Roll credits and start the jazz, because Shenandoah is a timeless glam with a splash of LA cool. Nestled in the iconic Mid-City neighborhood, this Spanish-style villa brings vintage Hollywood vibes to life, with a twist of modern luxury. Think tiled archways, a sunny courtyard, and a dreamy blend of classic and contemporary. From the moment you step inside, the ambiance is pure golden-age Tinseltown.
Why this one’s a total scene-stealer:
Classic yet modern Spanish-style villa with gorgeous archways & details
Lush outdoor courtyard with seating & BBQ grill
Spacious interiors with a dedicated workspace desk
Located near museums, cafes, and iconic LA attractions
Say hello to West Valley, where resort-style living brings major private estate energy— the kind of place where you picture sipping iced lattes by the pool and flipping through your beloved book in the shade. This home is your own personal slice of SoCal paradise with lush palms, a sparkling pool, a bubbling hot tub, and sun loungers that rival an influencer’s rooftop party. Indeed, a space of golden-hour glow, glam, and comfy.
Why this one’s a total scene-stealer:
Resort-style backyard with fenced pool, hot tub, and outdoor lounge space
Outdoor patio with dining setup, BBQ grill, and ping pong table
Spacious open layout perfect for hosting the crew
Just a quick drive to Malibu beaches, hiking trails, & Topanga hotspots
Ideal for groups, family stays, or a getaway with your glam squad
The architectural icon you didn’t know you needed on your Hollywood mood board, welcome to Dona Teresa. Draped in curves, arches, and star-quality details, this gem is in the celeb-studded hills of Los Feliz with soaring ceilings and arched windows framing the natural light that makes everything look like a movie. Cozy up in the sunken living room or set the scene for a glam dinner party on the terrace; every corner here is a photo op waiting to happen.
Why this one’s a total scene-stealer:
Modern estate with iconic architecture and curated design
Balconies with stunning views of the Los Angeles Valley
Luxe deck with hot tub, outdoor lounging, and secret nooks
Modern luxe interiors and open concept layout
Private, peaceful, and tucked in one of LA’s most sought-after neighborhoods
For morning matcha or sunset selfies, you know that Venice View is your effortlessly cool house with the best views of the ocean. Perched just a few blocks from the sand, this coastal cutie is giving laid-back beach vibes with high-style finishes worthy of a magazine spread. When you’re not catching waves or cruising the Venice Boardwalk, head up to the rooftop deck for sunset views that’ll have you humming.
Why this one’s a total scene-stealer:
Rooftop deck with bath, outdoor seating, and wooden sauna.
Sleek, modern interiors with updated kitchen appliances
Cafe-style coffee machine, wine fridge, BBQ grill
Dedicated nook for working and relaxing
Walkable to the beach and iconic Abbot Kinney shops, cafes & nightlife
Let’s be honest—everyone’s thought about what it’d be like to live in Los Angeles. Maybe it’s walking past movie sets, seeing palm trees everywhere, or catching that perfect sunset over the hills. Maybe it’s spotting a celebrity at your favorite smoothie shop (hey, it happens). Or maybe it’s just that feeling of being somewhere exciting, fun, and full of energy.
Staying at one of these amazing Los Angeles Airbnbs is like getting your own little slice of the Hollywood lifestyle. Big views, stylish rooms, backyard pools, cozy fireplaces—it’s all here. Whether you’re visiting with family, planning a friend trip, or just need a break, these homes give you space to chill, play, and live it up.
So, if you’re ready to treat yourself and your group to an unforgettable stay, this list is your red carpet. Let the LA magic begin and cue the glam!
Don’t Miss Your Cue!
The truth is, there’s something really special about LA. It’s not just where stars live—it’s where people come to relax, explore, and enjoy life in full color. And the best part? You don’t have to live here full-time to feel like you belong.
The best homes in Los Angeles go fast—especially during peak season. Book today!
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.
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Laguna Mountains on the southern California coast, San Diego is the Golden State’s second-largest city and home to postcard-perfect beaches, rich Spanish colonial history, chic eateries and breweries, and vibrant, locally inspired arts and culture scene.
It’s also frequently overshadowed by nearby Los Angeles and San Francisco, which makes it one of California’s best-kept secrets and the perfect place to visit year-round. It’s never too crowded, the weather is idyllic, the locals are welcoming, and you’ll never run out of fun things to do.
If you love fun in the sun, San Diego is an outdoor paradise with over 70 miles of palm-lined beaches like Mission and Pacific Beach, dozens of mountain parks and protected areas, desert hikes, oceanfront boardwalks, biking trails, and endless opportunities for watersports like surfing, kayaking, kiteboarding, boating, and sailing.
For culture aficionados, San Diego is California’s creative hub. Balboa Park is the city’s cultural epicenter featuring 17 museums and performing arts venues. It’s also home to two Tony Award-winning theaters as well as countless historic sites, art galleries, and gardens while also hosting dance performances, film festivals, and other cultural events year-round.
For families, San Diego is California’s Orlando, including the world-famous San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, SeaWorld San Diego, Sesame Place San Diego, LEGOLAND California, and the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. There are also dozens of museums for all ages, including the Maritime Museum of San Diego, the San Diego Air and Space Museum, and the USS Midway Museum.
So, whatever brings you to “SoCal”, piques your interests, satisfies your cravings, or gets your heart racing, here are 33 top fun things for locals and visitors to do in the San Diego area to savor everything this picture-perfect city has to offer.
1. Balboa Park
No destination is more iconically San Diego than Balboa Park. Established in 1884 and sprawling across 1,200 acres of impeccably manicured grounds, gardens, and trails just northeast of downtown, this National Historic Landmark fuses nature, culture, sports, history, and the arts into something for everyone. It’s home to 17 museums, an aerial tram, sports complexes, concert stages, dog parks, playgrounds, a puppet theater, Japanese gardens, several award-winning restaurants, and of course, the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Balboa Park should be your first San Diego stop if you are looking for stunning scenery, rich history, and an endless array of things to do.
2. San Diego Zoo
Set in the middle of Balboa Park on 100 acres, the San Diego Zoo is one of the largest, most visited, and most famous zoos in the world. Featuring more than 3,500 animals, 700,000 plants, 650 rare and endangered species, and dozens of “bioclimatic” exhibits like the Gorilla Tropics, Lost Forest, and Sun Bear Forest, it’s also one of the most diverse. Visitors (and locals) can explore the zoo on a three-mile guided bus tour, the aerial tramway, or stroll through the zoo’s endless maze of interconnected paths and trails. Families also shouldn’t miss the Wildlife Explorers Basecamp, where kids can interact with hundreds of live animals.
3. San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Spread across 1,800 acres thirty miles northeast of San Diego, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers visitors the rare opportunity to experience wild nature face to face and witness some of the rarest African and Asian “mega” animals roam free as if they were living in their natural habitats—all without needing a passport. Perfect for families, kids can watch a cheetah run at full speed, see endangered birds like the Andean condor, take the African Tram Safari, come face to face with lions, tigers, gorillas, giraffes, and elephants, and learn about rare wildlife and habitat conservation efforts.
4. SeaWorld San Diego
If you want to create the memories of a lifetime, SeaWorld San Diego is a can’t-miss destination for adults and kids alike. Located in the middle of shimmering Mission Bay on over 2,000 acres north of downtown, SeaWorld is one of the largest marine parks in the world, offering jaw-dropping live animal shows with dolphins and whales along with dozens of massive aquariums and habitat exhibits that feature some of the rarest marine mammals in the world—including Emperor penguins, sea turtles, beluga whales, and walruses. SeaWorld also offers several rides and rollercoasters on the water to double up the fun.
5. LEGOLAND California
A short drive north up Interstate 5 (or a little longer up scenic coastal Route 1) from San Diego past the beach towns of Encinitas and Del Mar is LEGOLAND California. This 128-acre theme park can literally keep your kids entertained for an entire weekend, which is why in addition to sixty different attractions, rides, and shows, it also includes its own LEGO-themed, 250-room hotel—the first in the country. The SEA LIFE Aquarium and LEGOLAND Water Park next door, featuring seven slides, also ensure that when you’ve had enough LEGOS, you’ll still never run out of things to do.
6. La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove and its adjacent offshore Marine Reserve and underwater park is without exaggeration one of the most scenic spots in America for watersports and beach lovers to put their toes in the sand for a day. Not far from tony La Jolla Shores, which is a local Mecca of fine dining, boutiques, and surf shops, visitors can enjoy a kayak or paddleboard rentals, charter a boat, scuba dive in the kelp forests, pack a picnic, listen to sea lions bark, or photograph the sun dropping into the Pacific Ocean. Just remember to pack your sneakers in addition to your flip-flops—parking, especially on the weekends, is a challenge.
7. Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave
Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave is one of La Jolla Cove’s top things to do and one of the coolest places to visit in the San Diego area. Dating back to 1902 when a local German settler first dug out the cave from the underlying rock from the surface—and named by Frank Baun who wrote The Wizard of Oz—the cave offers one of the most unique and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and the sunset through a wide rock window at sea level. To get there visitors need to navigate down (and back up) 145 stairs through the eerily lit cave itself which is half of the fun.
8. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve just north of La Jolla Cove (and adjacent to the famed Torrey Pines Golf Course) is 2,000 acres of coastal state park and one of the most stunning, protected stretches of the Pacific Ocean front wilderness remaining along the Southern California coast. If you love hiking, wildlife, quiet, and feeling the sunshine on your face, the 2.3 Torrey Pines Beach Trail Loop traverses across a high plateau above a saw tooth landscape between rugged cliffs, canyons, and tide pools and is one of the best places to see the sunset over the Pacific in the San Diego area.
9. Point Loma
One of the West Coast’s first lighthouses built in 1855 and demarcating the western entrance to San Diego Bay, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse is one of the most iconic symbols of San Diego’s seafaring and maritime history. When it was built on top of a cliff at what is now Cabrillo National Monument it was the tallest lighthouse in the U.S. Today, the lighthouse offers multiple oceanfront hiking trails and one of the most stunning 360-degree views of downtown San Diego and on a clear day, visitors can see all the way to Mexico.
10. Cabrillo National Monument
San Diego’s rich place in Spanish Colonial history and the settlement of North America is one of its most underrated attractions, especially for those with a penchant for understanding how we all got where we are today. Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo led the first European expedition that explored what is now the West Coast of the U.S., and in September 1592, he landed at what is now San Diego Bay. Cabrillo National Monument was built in 1949 in his honor and today it’s one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in San Diego with views both east overlooking the city and west over the Pacific Ocean.
11. Embarcadero
The Embarcadero (a.k.a. the “landing place”) is the beating heart of downtown San Diego’s bustling waterfront, home to some of the city’s most famous maritime visitor attractions and museums including the USS Midway Museum, the Maritime Museum of San Diego, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. It’s also home to over 50 chic eateries and boutiques, playgrounds, splash fountains, and waterfront parks and piers making it the ideal place to spend an afternoon or evening on the water or watch the sunset over Coronado Island.
12. USS Midway Museum
Docked on Navy Pier along the Embarcadero, the USS Midway Museum is one of San Diego’s most jaw-dropping attractions and the most visible symbol of the city’s rich naval heritage. The now-retired U.S. Navy aircraft carrier was part of America’s active fleet from the end of WWII all the way until 1992, making it the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century. Visitors to the museum can explore deep into the bowels of the ship including the engine room, officers’ sleeping quarters, the galley, and the brig while reliving six decades of naval and world history through a guided audio tour. The 4-acre flight deck also houses more than 20 historic aircraft.
13. Seaport Village
After an afternoon exploring the USS Midway, Seaport Village just south along San Diego’s Embarcadero is the perfect next stop if you’ve built up an appetite or just want to spend a few more hours discovering the city’s world-famous downtown waterfront. This quaint village modeled after a traditional West Coast seaport features over 70 shops and chic boutiques as well as dozens of restaurants ranging from fine dining to American fare to Mexican food. If you’re looking for a waterfront stroll at any time of day or one of the city’s best views of San Diego Bay, Seaport Village is a must-visit.
14. Maritime Museum of San Diego
In the other direction north of the USS Midway Museum is the Embarcadero’s next best place to visit—the Maritime Museum of San Diego. Showcasing one of the world’s finest collections of historic sea vessels, this floating museum pays homage to the history of nautical architecture and maritime exploration through many of the actual ships that plied the world’s oceans over the past 300 years. The museum’s Holy Grail and not to be missed is the Star of India built in 1863 and the world’s oldest active sailing ship. If you’re a maritime or seafaring buff this is definitely bucket list stuff.
15. Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach is San Diego’s longest and most famous city beach, stretching for over a mile on Point Loma just minutes from downtown. It’s also one of the city’s most vibrant, bohemian beach towns where surfers, sunbathers, volleyball players, and weightlifters gather year-round on the boardwalk, and fishermen while away the hours on Ocean Beach Pier—the longest concrete pier on the West Coast at almost half a mile. A few blocks inland Newport Ave, Bacon St, and Abbott St bustle with local taco shops, surf boutiques, farmer’s markets, and craft beer pubs. If you want a true taste of the “SoCal” lifestyle Ocean Beach is it.
16. Waterhorse Charters
San Diego is surrounded by and historically rooted in the ocean, and there’s no better way to see and experience the city than from the water. So, if you’re looking to get out on San Diego Bay, cruise around Coronado Island, deep sea fish offshore, go snorkeling through kelp forests, scuba diving into sunken wrecks, whale watching, or simply enjoy the sunset over the Pacific Ocean on a slow, champagne cruise, Waterhorse Charters can make that happen.
17. Compass Balloons
It’s impossible to go to San Diego without wanting to see America’s Finest City from the water. But what about getting a sweeping bird’s eye view of the San Diego skyline, its picture-perfect beaches, Balboa Park, the desert mountains, and the California coast from a few thousand feet in the air? Compass Balloons, an award-winning hot air balloon company with decades of experience can make that unforgettable trip possible. Compass offers group tours as well as private rides for anniversaries, weddings, and birthdays. All you need to do is pop the champagne and let the hot air do the rest.
18. iFly San Diego
If you’ve always wanted to skydive or feel what it’s like to defy gravity, but aren’t so keen on jumping out of a real plane from 15,000 or landing in a parachute, iFLY San Diego in Mission Valley is the perfect way to get the whole family’s adrenaline pulsing—especially on the rare day that it rains in San Diego and you need to find family-friendly activities indoors. This heart-racing virtual skydiving experience lasts for an hour in an enclosed wind tunnel and offers training programs if you’re eventually interested in doing the real thing. No prior experience is necessary.
19. San Diego Air and Space Museum
The San Diego Air and Space Museum located in Balboa Park celebrates the evolution of aviation, space flight, and aerospace technology while paying homage to the place San Diego has played in that history including the Coronado Naval Air Station where scenes from the original “Top Gun” movie as well as the recent sequel were shot. The museum’s exhibits feature models, pictures, and video galleries of astronauts and pilots who pioneered air and space exploration and also include actual historic aircraft including a Spitfire Mk. XVI, and an A-4 Skyhawk jet. If your kids want to grow up to be “Maverick” (a.k.a. Tom Cruise) this is the place to start.
20. Fleet Science Center
Located along the famed El Prado in the center of Balboa Park and named for aviation pioneer Reuben H. Fleet who founded the U.S. Air Mail service, the Fleet Science Center is one of the crown jewels of San Diego’s museums. It pioneered the first IMAX dome theater in the world and set new standards for planetarium projection technology (and still does). Today, the Fleet remains one of the top places in San Diego for families and kids to spend a day with more than 100 interactive and hands-on exhibits ranging from outer to inside the human body.
21. San Diego Museum Of Art
Just down Balboa Park’s El Prado from the Fleet Science Museum and housed in a jaw-dropping Spanish Colonial building is the San Diego Museum of Art, one of the largest and oldest art museums in the western U.S. founded in 1926. For art aficionados visiting the San Diego area, there is no better place to immerse yourself in the works of Italian, German, and other European artists—and specifically Spanish art. The museum includes dozens of permanent collections featuring rare, one-of-a-kind pieces as well as historical memorabilia, documents, artifacts, sculptures, and paintings dating back to 5000 B.C.
22. California Tower
The California Building and adjoining California Tower are among the most recognizable and architecturally significant landmarks in San Diego, built as the grand entrance to the 1915–16 Panama-California Exposition. Today, the California Building houses the Museum of Us and the eight-story, 198’ California Tower offers some of the most stunning 360-degree views of San Diego, the Pacific Ocean coastline, and the surrounding mountain landscapes from the top. Combining elements of Baroque and Gothic architecture in its ornate façade, blue-and-gold dome, and multi-colored tiles and carvings the California Building and Tower are also breathtaking in themselves to behold. This is definitely one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in San Diego, especially in the morning and late afternoon light.
23. Coronado Island
Built in 1969, the bridge from downtown San Diego to Coronado Island curves and arcs more than two miles over 180’ in the air, and is one of the city’s most visible architectural landmarks with views from the top stretching all the way to Tijuana. On the other side, Coronado Island itself is one of the city’s toniest spots to eat, shop, people watch, and dig your toes in the sand whether it’s for a day or a weekend. There are five postcard-perfect beaches on the island’s Pacific Coast side (one is dog friendly). Just make sure you bring your earplugs if you’re going to Coronado Beach proper. The “Top Gun” pilots taking off from the North Island Naval Air Station might blow your ear drums out.
24. Hotel Del Coronado
The Hotel del Coronado on Coronado Island is a San Diego icon and living architectural legend. Built in 1888 and infused with the memories of guests across two centuries, the now 4-star Hilton hotel is a Victorian gem and one of the last surviving grandiose hotels on the West Coast from that era (most of the others burned down). Over its more than 140 years in operation, “The Del” as it’s otherwise known has hosted Marilyn Monroe, Madonna, Brad Pitt, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Oprah Winfrey among dozens of other celebrities so don’t be surprised if you rub some A-list elbows when you stay or dine here.
25. Mission Basilica San Diego
Founded in 1769 and known as the “Mother of the Missions”, Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá was the first Roman Catholic mission built in California by Spanish friar Junípero Serra, marking the beginning of Christianity in the American West. Today, it’s one of the most historic and picturesque must-see landmarks in San Diego if you want to get an understanding of Spanish Colonial influence on the settlement of Southern California and the arc of San Diego’s history. The Mission is open to the public daily from 9:00 am to 4:45 pm for self-guided tours.
26. Old Town San Diego
No trip to “America’s Finest City” would be complete without visiting Old Town San Diego, the earliest European settlement in California and San Diego’s oldest neighborhood. Sprawling across 230 acres roughly halfway between Mission and San Diego Bays, Old Town features over 32 interpretive historic sites, 75 boutiques, 30 different restaurants ranging from fish tacos and brunch to Italian and sushi, gift shops, as well as ten hotels all within walking distance of one another. There is no better place in San Diego to get a feel for the city’s rich Spanish and Mexican history while enjoying an endless array of fun things to do.
27. Little Italy
San Diego is a city of neighborhoods and one of its most historic and famous is Little Italy which got its name from the Italian tuna fishermen who settled here back in the 1920s. Today San Diego’s Little Italy is the largest in the U.S. at more than 48 square blocks and for visitors a veritable feast of patio cafés, restaurants, brew pubs, boutique art galleries, chic shops, upscale hotels, urban wineries, and beautiful Amici Park. The Little Italy Mercato is also the largest farmer’s market in the San Diego area with over 200 vendors open Saturday and Wednesday.
28. Gaslamp Quarter
The 16-square block Gaslamp Quarter is the heart and soul of downtown San Diego and the city’s most famous neighborhood for nightlife, live music, and entertainment. Originally called “New Town” (as contrast to Old Town), the streets were the first in the city to be lit with gas lamps—hence the neighborhood’s name. Today, the Gaslamp Quarter bustles with nightclubs, cocktail lounges, bars, and restaurants drawing locals and visitors alike. The Spreckels and Balboa theaters host music, comedy, and drama shows, while high-end nightclubs like the Oxford Social Club are famous for A-list sightings—like Snoop Dogg.
29. Catch A Padres Game at Petco Park
Most major league baseball stadiums, especially the newer, more modern ones, tend to be located outside of downtown in more industrial or fringe areas where there’s still space to build. Not so with San Diego’s Petco Park. Built in 2004 and located just a few blocks east of the Gaslamp Quarter, it’s one of the best places to visit if you love sports and live events. Home to the San Diego Padres, Petco Park also hosts concerts, rugby, soccer games, and other special events. If you’re spending a few hours in the Gaslamp Quarter you can also get into the park just to explore when no other events are scheduled.
30. Mission Trails Regional Park
Along with Balboa and Mission Bay parks, Mission Trails Regional Park is often called the “third jewel” of the city of San Diego’s park system. Started in 1974 and located eight miles from downtown, the park encompasses more than 8,000 acres of natural and developed recreational areas, rugged hills, valleys, and open areas as well as over 60 miles of hiking trails, offering visitors and locals a quick way to escape San Diego’s hustle and bustle. Visitors can also enjoy boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Lake Murray, camping in Kumeyaay Lake, and learning about San Diego’s history at the state-of-the-art Visitor and Interpretive Center.
31. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
There’s no better place in San Diego to watch the sunset after a day of sightseeing than the eponymously named Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. Just south of Ocean Beach on Point Loma, it features one of the most beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean on the West Coast along with 68 acres of protected land, bluffs, canyons, and trails to walk, hike, meditate, or do yoga. If you’re lucky you also might just catch a glimpse of the cliff divers who frequently congregate here at sunset.
32. Belmont Park
Belmont Park on Mission Bay is one of the oldest amusement parks on the West Coast built in 1925 and a must-visit if you are coming to San Diego with kids. Located right on the water, Belmont Park’s slides, carousels, zipline courses, plunge, and other rides attract millions of visitors every year. The centerpiece of the park is the Giant Dipper roller coaster—one of only two wooden roller coasters remaining on the West Coast featuring views of the San Diego skyline and mountains in the background that might just take your breath away faster than the roller coaster itself.
Port Aransas, Texas is a coastal gem that thrives year-round with its beautiful beaches, charming small-island vibe, and wide range of activities for visitors. While summer is the high season, winter offers a milder, quieter escape perfect for those looking to enjoy outdoor adventures, wildlife, and local culture without the crowds. Many of these activities are particularly popular with Winter Texans—those visitors who escape the cold northern winters by spending the season in the warm Gulf Coast region. Here are the top 25 things to do in Port Aransas during the winter:
1. Bird Watching at the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center
Winter brings a variety of migratory birds to Port Aransas, and the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center is the perfect spot for bird watching. The boardwalk offers stunning views of wetland birds, including roseate spoonbills, egrets, herons, and more. It’s a favorite stop for Winter Texans who enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.
2. Dolphin Watching Tours
Winter is a great time to book a dolphin-watching cruise. These playful marine mammals are active year-round, and many local tour companies offer close-up encounters with these majestic creatures. Watching dolphins frolic in the cool Gulf waters is an experience Winter Texans often rave about.
Source: PortAransas-Texas.com
3. Fishing
Whether you’re into deep-sea fishing or prefer casting a line from a pier, Port Aransas is an angler’s paradise. Winter is prime season for redfish and trout, making it a fantastic time to explore the Gulf’s bounty. Many Winter Texans take full advantage of the quieter season to enjoy relaxed fishing trips.
4. Beachcombing Along Mustang Island
Mustang Island’s serene winter shoreline is perfect for beachcombing. You’ll find beautiful shells, sea glass, and other treasures washed up by the Gulf’s gentle waves without the hustle of summer crowds. This peaceful activity is especially popular among Winter Texans who spend the colder months soaking up the sunshine.
5. Explore the Port Aransas Nature Preserve
The Port Aransas Nature Preserve offers trails for hiking, birding, and wildlife viewing. In winter, the cool weather makes it ideal for a relaxed stroll while enjoying the coastal scenery. Weekly guided tours available as well.
6. Winter Sunsets at Roberts Point Park
Roberts Point Park is a prime location for catching the stunning sunsets Port Aransas is known for. Pack a picnic and watch the sun dip below the horizon while enjoying cooler temps and quiet surroundings.
7. Kayaking Through the Lighthouse Lakes Paddling Trails
Winter brings calm waters, perfect for kayaking. Paddle through the Lighthouse Lakes Paddling Trails, and take in views of the historic Lydia Ann Lighthouse while spotting birds and marine life along the way.
Source: Texas Monthly
8. Attend the Whooping Crane Festival
Held annually in February, the Whooping Crane Festival celebrates one of North America’s rarest birds. The nearby Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a key wintering spot for these endangered creatures, and the festival offers tours, workshops, and plenty of birding.
9. Sandcastle Building
With cooler weather and fewer people, winter is a wonderful time to practice your sandcastle-building skills on the beach. Some local companies even offer lessons!
Source: Port Aransas Explorer
10. Visit the Port Aransas Museum
Dive into the town’s history with a visit to the Port Aransas Museum. Learn about its origins as a fishing village, the local maritime culture, and its evolution into a vibrant coastal destination.
11. Go Shelling at San José Island
Accessible by ferry, San José Island is a private island where you can spend a quiet day collecting shells and exploring untouched natural beauty. Winter’s cooler temperatures make it ideal for an unhurried adventure.
12. Take a Guided Nature Walk
Various parks and preserves in the area offer guided nature walks during the winter months. These walks are perfect for learning about the unique ecosystems and wildlife that call Port Aransas home.
13. Explore Mustang Island State Park
Mustang Island State Park boasts miles of undeveloped coastline perfect for beach walks, fishing, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Winter offers a chance to experience the park’s natural beauty without the summer crowds.
14. Port Aransas Art Center
Support local artists and immerse yourself in the coastal culture at the Port Aransas Art Center. The center features rotating exhibits and offers workshops, so you can get creative during your winter stay.
15. Take a Sunset Cruise
Winter sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico are nothing short of magical. Book a sunset cruise for a scenic evening on the water, complete with breathtaking views and cool breezes.
Source: PortAransas.org
16. Hit the Links at Palmilla Beach Golf Club
For golf enthusiasts, winter is an ideal time to tee off at Palmilla Beach Golf Club. The cooler weather makes for an enjoyable round at this premier course with its stunning coastal views. Golfing here is a favorite winter pastime for many Winter Texans.
17. Enjoy Fresh Seafood
Port Aransas is home to numerous seafood restaurants, serving up fresh Gulf catches like shrimp, redfish, and oysters. Winter is a great time to sample local flavors without the wait.
18. Watch the Ships from Horace Caldwell Pier
The Horace Caldwell Pier extends over 1,200 feet into the Gulf and is a great spot for fishing or just watching the ships go by. It’s also a favorite spot for stargazing on clear winter nights.
19. Attend Winter Texan Events
Port Aransas hosts several special events for Winter Texans, seasonal visitors who migrate south to escape the cold. These events include potlucks, dances, and other community gatherings, giving you a taste of local hospitality and a chance to meet other winter visitors.
20. Go Crabbing
Winter is a fantastic time to try your hand at crabbing in the shallow waters of the bay. With the right gear, you can catch blue crabs and enjoy a fresh, home-cooked seafood feast.
Source: PortAransas.org
21. Take a Scenic Drive on the Beach
With fewer vehicles on the sand in winter, you can enjoy a peaceful scenic drive along Mustang Island’s 18 miles of beachfront. Just be sure to check beach driving conditions beforehand!
22. Deep-Sea Fishing
For those seeking a bigger adventure, winter is a great time for deep-sea fishing trips to catch grouper, amberjack, and other species. Local charters operate year-round, offering guided fishing experiences.
23. Check out the Chapel on the Dunes
This tiny, historic chapel is the oldest consecrated church in Port Aransas and offers stunning views from its location atop a dune. Its unique architecture and serene surroundings make it a hidden gem worth visiting.
Source: PortAransas.org
24. Explore the Texas State Aquarium (Nearby in Corpus Christi)
A short drive away, the Texas State Aquarium is perfect for a day trip. See marine life up close, including sharks, sea turtles, and dolphins, while learning about Gulf conservation efforts.
25. Fire It! Ceramics Studio
Looking for a creative way to spend your time? Visit Fire It! Ceramics Studio, where you can paint your own pottery or create your own masterpiece. This hands-on experience is great for Winter Texans looking for something unique to do during their stay.
26. Spa Services at Balinese Wellness Spa
Relax and rejuvenate with a massage or spa treatment at Balinese Wellness Spa. Their wide range of services makes it a great stop for anyone looking to unwind, especially after a day of exploring.
27. Volunteer Opportunities
For Winter Texans looking to give back and meet others in the community, there are plenty of local volunteer opportunities. From helping with beach cleanups to supporting local charities, volunteering is a great way to connect with other winter visitors and residents.
28. Yoga on the Beach
Start your day with a peaceful yoga session right on the beach. Many local instructors offer outdoor classes that let you stretch and relax to the sound of the waves.
Source: Namaste Port A
29. Port A Community Theatre
If you’re interested in the arts, the Port Aransas Community Theatre welcomes anyone looking to get involved in productions, whether it’s acting, set-building, or helping backstage. It’s a wonderful way to meet locals and immerse yourself in the creative community.
30. Learn About Farley Boats
Farley Boats, integral to the history of Port Aransas, were once considered the best boats for tarpon fishing. Visit local museums or historical spots to learn about their significance and craftsmanship, and why they’re a beloved part of the town’s heritage.
31. Stay in a Vacation Rental
Lastly, if you’re visiting Port Aransas in winter, consider staying in a vacation rental with Sway by AvantStay. These rentals offer the comforts of home with more space, privacy, and amenities than hotels, making them perfect for families or long-term stays. For Winter Texans, vacation rentals provide a great way to settle in for a month or more and really enjoy the laid-back winter lifestyle of Port A.
Local Services for Winter Texans Staying Long-Term
For Winter Texans planning extended stays, Port Aransas offers essential services to make your winter as comfortable as possible:
Local Doctors & Pharmacies: Ensure your health needs are met with several local healthcare providers and pharmacies, including Island Medicine and the Family Pharmacy.
Veterinary & Pet Services: Traveling with a pet? Visit Island Animal Clinic or Port A Pet Resort for pet boarding, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your furry friends happy and healthy during your stay.
Port Aransas in the winter is a tranquil and charming destination with plenty to offer visitors looking for a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re exploring nature, enjoying local culture, or simply unwinding by the shore, the town has something to make your winter escape memorable, especially for Winter Texans looking to enjoy a warm, relaxed lifestyle away from the cold.
The town of Telluride is a scenic historic landmark, and it has come a long way since being founded in 1878. Once a Victorian mining town, modern Telluride is more than 8,000 feet above sea level, set in a box canyon amidst the world-famous Rocky Mountains. Its historic architecture and wonderful landscapes make it a top destination in Colorado. During the winter, it’s also one of the go-to spots to practice skiing.
Telluride neighbors the town of Mountain Village to the west. This world-class getaway is a little over an hour from the mountainside towns of Ouray and Silverton, and about four hours away from iconic Aspen and the state capital of Denver.
You can rent a cozy place right next to the river like the Riverside Condos, or a luxury cabin right near a ski center like Slopeside at Sundance. You can also go for something close to the town center but equally beautiful, such as Mountain House East.
From spectacular views to outdoor activities that adventure enthusiasts will never forget, there is no shortage of fun things to do in Telluride year-round. Read on to discover the top things to do in Telluride so you can start planning your dream vacation with unmatched confidence.
Experience picturesque downtown Telluride
Telluride may have started as an old mining camp, but today it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the USA.
The beating heart of Telluride runs through the town east to west: Main Street or Colorado Avenue.
Mainstreet represents the epicenter of downtown Telluride. Here, you can find a variety of shops, bars, cafes, boutiques, bakeries, and more. There are dozens of dining options available to visitors, like the fabulous Cosmopolitan Telluride or the cozy Baked in Telluride bakery.
You can enjoy all sorts of mouth-watering cuisine downtown, like French pastries, Italian food, bison, African fusion, and even some unusual delicacies like rattlesnakes. After you eat, pay a visit to the Telluride Gallery of Fine Art to take in the paintings, sculptures, photography, and local artwork. Then, relax in a comfy stay like AvantStay’s Spruce and recharge your batteries for your next adventure.
Conquer the San Juan Mountains
Millions of years ago, two massive continental tectonic plates crashed into each other to create a fault – a rupture between rock blocks. That fateful crash is how the San Juan Mountains were born.
Ancient glaciers carved steep mountainsides into the rock and created distinct U-shaped canyons like the box canyon surrounding Telluride.Here you can explore the tallest, most spectacular peaks in North America. There are more than 20 peaks that soar above 9,000 feet in the San Juan mountains.
The San Juan mountains were home to native Ute tribes for centuries before the arrival of European settlers in search of a fortune during the Goldrush. In recent years the mountain range has become a go-to destination for millions of tourists and outdoor adventure enthusiasts. With so many beautiful mountains and slopes available to enjoy, it is no wonder that Telluride is considered a paradise for skiers from near and far.The Telluride Ski Resort is home to some of the steepest, most challenging mountainous terrain. You could also try snowboarding or snow skiing down the scenic mountain slopes instead.
Traverse breathtaking hiking trails
There is much more to the San Juan mountains than just winter activities.
You will find some of the most legendary Colorado hiking trails in the mountains surrounding Telluride, ranging from single-day hikes to epic adventures spent scaling 14,000-foot summits. Hikers from everywhere come to experience the tranquil mountain views of the beautiful Telluride mountains. In the fall, the trails burst into bright explosions of yellow and gold that brighten up the mid to late-October landscape.
Bridal Veil Falls
The San Juan mountains are home to the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado, Bridal Veil Falls. The falls are 365 feet high, and every year millions of visitors flock to Telluride to explore the beautiful wilderness surrounding them.
Whether you bike, hike, swim, or ice climb, you will never be bored at Bridal Veil Falls. The trailhead also leads to Lewis Lake, Blue Lake, and other points of interest in the gorgeous Bridal Veil basin.
This hike follows a jeep road that grants gorgeous views of Bridal Veil Falls, as well as the historic power plant at the top of the falls and the entire Telluride valley. The road will also take you to Lewis Lake, Blue Lake, and other locations in the Bridal Veil basin.
If you want a good view of the falls from further away, you can try your hand at the Telluride Via Ferrata. This hybrid hiking and climbing experience is not for the faint of heart. At some points, the trail gives way to sheer cliffs, where you climb across steel rungs anchored into the rock. To take on the Via Ferrata, you will need the services of a trained guide.
Bear Creek Falls
About 6 hours up Bear Creek Canyon, you will find Bear Creek Falls. Bear Creek Trail leads you through a lovely route full of rugged cliffs that end with a stunning waterfall view.
The San Miguel Conservation Foundation works with Telluride to preserve more than 320 acres of land in Bear Creek Canyon as public open space. Here you will find an easy hike that the whole family will love.
Jud Wiebe Trail
When springtime comes to Telluride, the Jud Wiebe Trail is one of the first hiking trails to thaw out, though some avid hikers still traverse Jud Wiebe in the wintertime. The popular trail stretches for more than 3 miles and can take about 2 hours to complete. Dogs are welcome to join you on this trail as long as they have leashes on.
From May to October, this trail is also great for mountain biking and horseback riding.
Sneffels Highline Trail
If you want a more challenging hiking route, then give the Sneffels Highline Trail a shot. Explore every inch of this 13-mile loop named after the massive Mount Sneffels to the north.
The trail doesn’t take you up the mountain, but you can experience the dramatic cliffs between Mount Dallas and Mount Gilpin. On average, this trail takes just over 9 hours to complete.
Don’t be surprised if you run into fellow hikers, campers, and backpackers up there, but this is certainly an experience where you can find some peace on the trail.
Imogene Pass
The San Juan Mountains aren’t just for hiking. You can also enjoy plenty of off-road adventures and scenic driving routes along the way.
The Imogene pass is a very popular spot for high-adrenaline driving thrills, and it’s no surprise. The high mountain pass is more than 13 thousand feet tall and crosses a ridge that connects Telluride with Ouray. It is the highest pass in the San Juan Mountains and the second-tallest drivable mountain crossing in the state.
Explore the Imogen pass at your own risk, as there are lots of extremely steep areas that can be very dangerous. The risk is well worth the reward for experienced drivers who are rewarded with magnificent, panoramic views of San Miguel county.
Another famous drivable mountain pass is Black Bear Pass. Found on Black Bear Road, the pass extends more than 12 thousand feet upwards to provide an epic view of Telluride below.
Explore the San Miguel River
Located in the pastoral sprawl of the famous Telluride valley floor, the San Miguel River is just east of the Telluride canyon.
The river runs through acres of wildflowers and noble evergreens in the winter. Wildlife is abundant here, and you will often see coyotes, elk, birds, rabbits, and even prairie dogs.
You can find some of the best cold-water trout fly fishing on the San Miguel River just about 45 miles northwest of Telluride. You can also cut through twisting canyons and churning rapids if you enjoy whitewater rafting. The rafting season is rather short, mostly spanning the summer months. The San Miguel rapids are not an overly technical course. They are mostly Class II, with a few Class III along the way.
Feel awestruck at Alta Lakes
Just south of Telluride you’ll find a series of enchanting alpine lakes.
The Alta Lakes are over 11 thousand feet up, and they are named after the nearby ghost town of Alta. Alta was once a tiny, prosperous mining town, but it has been abandoned since the 1940s.
When you visit Alta Lakes, you’ll find priceless views of the Telluride Ski Resort, Silver Mountain, and Bald Mountain.
Go back in time at the Telluride Historical Museum
The Telluride Historical Museum has an impressive permanent collection of artifacts to peruse, as well as annual historical exhibitions that provide a glimpse back in time to old Telluride.
You can dive right into the region’s Ute Native heritage or brush up on its legendary mining history. Walk through ten themed rooms, each showcasing a different aspect of the town’s dramatic history.
There are a lot of interactive displays to engage with, and visitors of all ages can find something to fascinate them or tickle their fancy.
No matter how much Telluride grows and changes, this museum ensures no one will forget the legacy that created the town and shaped its present iteration.
Fall in love with Telluride Town Park
If Telluride had a beating heart, chances are you would find it at Telluride Town Park.
No matter the season, you can find locals and tourists enjoying the lovely scenery of the town park.
During the summer the park hosts music festivals, camping trips, softball games, swimming lessons, tennis matches, kid’s fishing, and so much more. In the winter, you must visit Hanley Ice Rink, Telluride’s winter ice skatingpavilion.
There is also a natural outdoor rink that is open from the middle of December until the middle of February. There are also outdoor warming huts for when you come off the ice.
Take a dip at Uncompahgre National Park
There are more than 1 million acres of Colorado land inside the Uncompahgre National Forest, including parts of the San Juan Mountains around Telluride. This remote national park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Colorado, and the land is protected by the United State National Forest Service.
Unlike some of the trails and vistas in the San Juan range, Uncompahgre National Forest is usually much less crowded and has plenty of campgrounds, hiking trails, and backcountry terrain.
There are popular fishing spots here, notably Priest Lake and Trout Lake that you can enjoy for free. Both lakes offer lots of birdwatching and plenty of wildlife activity. You can also find them surrounded by colorful wildflowers in warmer months, a view that will surely bring a smile to your face.
Brace yourself for off-road mountain biking
You can travel between Telluride and nearby Mountain Village on a 13-minute free gondola ride.
This biking gondola is the first and only public transport system of its kind in the continental US and allows bikers to access some of Colorado’s best biking trails.
You can access the gondola from either town, and there is a midway point between them located at San Sophia Overlook. The ride takes you more than 10 thousand feet in the air.
The gondola runs every day from 6:30 am to midnight, and during certain events and holidays, you may find the gondola offers extended hours. Please note that every spring and fall the gondolas are closed down for regular maintenance.
Find all the best festivals
When you think of Telluride you might think of snow and winter sports, but it’s a great summer vacation destination as well. During the warmer months, the town is host to some of the best entertainment festivals in the world.
There’s the famous Telluride Film Festival, which is one of the most celebrated film festivals in the world. Every Labor Day weekend, Telluride is full to the brim with film buffs, superstars, and everyone in between.
You can also experience the legendary Blues & Brews music festival. Every fall Telluride enjoys this multi-stage festival celebrating blues, indie, funk, gospel, and soul music. Then they wash all that good music down with some of the best craft beer in the western hemisphere.
Relax and unwind in luxurious hot springs
You can find a lot of adrenaline-fueled thrills in Telluride, but sometimes you just want a tranquil place to relax and let go of all your worries. If you need a luxurious rest day, where better to find it than one of the region’s many hot springs?
These natural mineral hot springs provide relaxation and relief all year long, and many are equipped with spa services like facials, body scrubs, and massages. You’ll find Orvis Hot springs about 45 minutes away from Telluride. Locals love to frequent this hot spring. Or you could try Ouray Hot Springs, which is just over an hour’s drive away.
Final thoughts
Telluride looks like a magical land from a childhood fairytale. Surrounded by tall mountains and bursting with wildlife and natural beauty, it’s no wonder the town has become one of the country’s most legendary vacation destinations.
Founded during America’s rugged wild west era, Telluride has never lost its unpretentious charm and never adopted the ritzier reputation of neighboring ski resort towns in the Rockies.
The town has something for everyone to enjoy – no matter your age or what you want out of your trip. Though it is only eight blocks wide and 12 blocks long, Telluride is far from being a mundane mountain town.
You can ease into the small-town mountain lifestyle for sure, but you can also experience larger-than-life thrills on the slopes or trails. It’s all up to you. There’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Telluride. Whatever you decide, you’ll never forget the time spent here, and you’ll want to start planning your return to a Telluride cabinas soon as possible.
Is there an Isle of Palms getaway in your future? We have your guide to the top things to do for your Isle of Palms itinerary! From enjoying time on the beach, kayaking, and other outdoor activities to sightseeing and exploring the history of the area, there are plenty of fun things to keep your group entertained. Check out our list of the best Isle of Palms attractions and things to do during your next beach vacation.
Spend the Day at Isle of Palms Beach
The beach is a must during any Isle of Palms vacation. The Isle of Palms County Park features a public beach park with all of the amenities needed for relaxation and family fun. Head to this centrally located beach park on the island to stroll the boardwalks, take a swim in the warm Atlantic Ocean, and even join a game of sand volleyball! For those looking to sit back and relax with their beach read, umbrella and chair rentals are available to ensure a perfect setup for you and your family. You can even stay beachfront at an AvantStay vacation home like High Tide or Derby.
Source: Conde Naste Traveler
Hit a Hole-in-One at the Wild Dunes Links Golf Course
Whether you are an expert on the greens or a novice looking to practice your swing, you’ll enjoy a round of golf on the Wild Dunes Links Golf Course. The oceanfront, 18-hole golf course is one of the best in all of South Carolina and was designed by renowned architect, Tom Fazio. Book a tee time or lesson at this oceanfront golf course for a morning of outdoor fun during your Isle of Palms vacation!
Source: Charleston & Resort Islands Golf
Reel in a Catch on a Fishing Charter
Get out on the water with an Isle of Palms fishing charter. Trust a local captain to be your guide to navigate either inshore waterways or offshore waters and assist you in casting fishing lines to reel in prized catches of redfish, tarpon, spotter trout, flounder, and even the occasional shark! Experienced anglers or first-time fishermen will enjoy an expedition led by a knowledgeable local angler.
Source: Charleston Charter Fishing
See the Island by Kayak, Paddleboard, or Boat
And if you want to get out on the water without casting a fishing line, jump in a kayak or on a paddleboard. Watersports enthusiasts can find plenty of ways to explore Isle of Palms whether they are out on a kayaking expedition, paddleboarding, or experiencing a wildlife tour with Barrier Island Eco-Tours.
Source: Coastal Expeditions
Admire the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse
Known locally as the “Charleston Light,” Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse has been a staple of the South Carolina shoreline since 1962. Today, the lighthouse continues to shine nightly to guide passing ships while during the day the lighthouse is a popular sightseeing destination. The lighthouse is not open to the public, but the nearby beach access is a popular spot to pose for photos and to view the iconic structure. The nearby Sullivan’s Island Life Saving Station is a historic site that provides further architectural interest and charming grounds to explore.
Source: Visit Historic Charleston
Explore Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park
Experience the history of Charleston Harbor at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historic Park. The park consists of a series of fortifications along Charleston Harbor and Sullivan’s Island. Fort Moultrie has a history stretching back to before the Revolutionary War when the forts were utilized as a quarantine station checking every passenger coming into the harbor including Africans who were enslaved. In 1776 the fort was attacked by the Royal Navy. Fort Sumter marks the location of the first shots of the Civil War on April 12th, 1861 and became a significant factor in the Siege of Charleston. Today, guests are able to visit these historical sites and learn the history from rangers of the park.
Source: Fort Sumter Tours
Enjoy Oceanfront Cuisine
IOP is a hub for delicious coastal and low country cuisine. Enjoy an ocean breeze and delicious seafood dishes at a local beachfront eatery. Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill which offers ocean views, casual beachside eats, and a rooftop bar. During peak season, live music can often be enjoyed at this popular beach grill. For a romantic setting with a menu filled with southern specialties, head to The Boathouse! Sit down to enjoy dishes such as raw oysters, surf & turf, and pan roasted scallops that can be paired with a seasonal cocktail or a glass of wine. Delight your taste buds during a stay in an Island of Palms vacation home like Crawdad or Orchard.
Source: Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill
Stroll Through Charleston
Known for its cuisine, history, nightlife, shopping, and more, Charleston sits a ~40-minute drive away from IOP, making it an ideal day trip during your vacation. Plan a day to head inland to explore Charleston’s landmarks like Rainbow Row, The Battery, Charleston City Market, King Street and so much more. Downtown Charleston is a hub for foodies, shopping, and stunning parks filled with oak trees. Take a walking tour to get the most out of your day in Charleston and really learn the history of this unique coastal city!
Source: Our Escape Clause
Dance the Night Away at The Windjammer
After the sun goes down, dance the night away at The Windjammer. A live music venue located on IOP’s Front Beach, The Windjammer invites visitors to enjoy performances from local bands, tribute bands, and more. The Windjammer also offers a menu of casual beach cuisine, so you can combine dancing with snacking on shrimp baskets. Check the event schedule to see what live performance you want to jam along with during your next beach vacation.
Source: Post and Courier
Experience the Best of Isle of Palms
Ready to experience the beauty, history, and fun that awaits on Isle of Palms? Make your own itinerary of Isle of Palms must-dos to prepare for your beach vacation.
Looking for a top-tier Hilton Head retreat but you’re overwhelmed by the options on Airbnb or Vrbo? We’ve got you covered!
AvantStay offers a large selection of upscale escapes, complete with inspiring design and plenty of available upgrades via the app. With consistent experiences, group-friendly amenities, and incredible interiors, there’s no guesswork needed here.
Hilton Head offers 12 miles of gorgeous shoreline, tons of outdoor areas and preserves, and a luxe culinary and golf scene. There are plenty of beaches, nature, entertainment, and shopping to explore on the island, while the mainland remains easily accessible just over the bridge. Something as simple as a scenic drive is enough to take your breath away as you pass East-coast woods and babbling rivers. If you’re looking for something more exciting, there’s plenty of fresh seafood, live music, and rich history to explore.
With homes near the beach, surrounded by golf courses, and with incredible ocean views, AvantStay’s options are endless. No matter what’s on your “must-haves” wishlist, these seven vacation rentals have you covered.
1. Lido – I want the beach in my backyard.
A quick stroll down your private boardwalk puts you on the shores of Singleton Beach. At Lido, sandy shores are literally in your backyard. When you’re done lounging near the waves, a beach-facing pool and hot tub, unique indoor putting green, and a game room with billiards and shuffleboard are all waiting back at home.
2. Beachwalk – I need lots of space.
With three stories and seven bedrooms, Beachwalk has enough style and space for your entire group. The beach is minutes away, and you’ll even have a private pool and pier overlooking open space right outside. Bonus! This stunning home has a deck and/or balcony on each level, so everyone has room to take in the fresh air and Hilton Head sunsets.
3. Dory –Put me near the eats!
If you’re looking to experience the best of Hilton Head’s food scene, Dory lands you near some of our favorites. From fine seafood to casual bites, there’s something here for any palate. At home, you’ll find a private pool and hot tub, game room and yoga studio, and rustic yet contemporary beachy decor.
4. Hilton Lagoon –I’m ready to hit the green.
Surrounded by lush courses, Hilton Lagoonputs the best of the area’s golfing at your fingertips. Choose from multiple championship and luxury golf courses, all nearby. Back at home, your backyard features a private pool surrounded by greenery, giving you a luxe sense of privacy after a day of perfecting your swing.
5. Sandpiper –I want to fall asleep to the sound of waves.
Modern design with crashing waves right outside. At Sandpiper, chic details like a spiral staircase, wide hammock, and interior fireplace combine with unbeatable backyard beach access to give you a Hilton Head experience like never before. Throw open the windows. There’s no shortage of fresh, salty air here.
6. Birdie- Give me chic neutrals and coastal-inspired design.
Birdie boasts a contemporary aesthetic like no other. From al fresco meals at the gorgeous outdoor dining table to music sessions near the guitar and record player, every corner of this home feels like a photo op. Chill out among the bright neutrals in the front living room and sunny dining area, or get moody with the darker decor in the second family area.
After lounging by your private pool, head out to explore Harbour Town, where you can enjoy restaurants, shopping, watersports, live music, and the famed cane-striped lighthouse.
7. Sea Pine – I love tons of outdoor space.
With three massive deck areas, Sea Pine gives you space to spread out. Gather around the fire pit, dine under open skies at the outdoor table, or grab a lounger under an umbrella. Huge sliding glass doors and floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room bring the outside in, where you’ll find stone finishes, modern decor, and four bright bedrooms. Late-night hangouts are a breeze in the airy game room featuring billiards, a wet bar, and a double-sided fireplace.
Destin, commonly known as the world’s “luckiest fishing village,” is a sunny southern locale in the Florida Panhandle. It’s one of the most popular stops for visitors in Okaloosa County, which welcomed a record-breaking 7.5 million tourists in 2021.
Situated alongside Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island, Destin makes up a large part of Florida’s Emerald Coast.
This 100-mile stretch of wind-swept white sand coasts and clear, jewel-toned Gulf waters boasts a cornucopia of activities for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
Destin has a little bit of everything, from thrilling watersports and jaw-dropping amusement parks to quiet seaside cabins and quirky local shops.
It’s also a short drive away from other gorgeous locations, like Miramar Beach and Sandestin Beach Resort, where you’ll find the quaint Village of Baytowne Wharf.
As you plan your upcoming beach vacation, this guide of 35 things to do in Destin, Florida will help you hunt down some of the Sunshine State’s best hotspots.
1. Henderson Beach State Park
There is no shortage of beach parks in this quaint coastal town.
Henderson Beach State Park is one of the most popular beach access points in Destin, Florida, and features more than a mile of white, sandy shorelines along the Gulf of Mexico.
Henderson does have a small entry fee because it’s a protected site, but the vast majority of beach access sites are open to the public.
2. See the city from the air on a zipline
Ziplining is a must if you’re bringing an adrenaline junkie on your Florida vacation.
HarborWalk Adventures will send you on a 1,000-foot zipline trip, traveling100-feet above the ground! This zip line is the tallest in Destin and offers a stunning view of the coast, the waves, and the city beyond. Try an evening ride for an incredible sunset view.
Baytowne Adventure Zone is another family-friendly zipline adventure location that includes golf, a tower climb, a tugboat adventure, and a ropes course.
3. Shelling on the beach
Seashells are in massive abundance on the shores of nearly every beach, appearing in a vast range of sizes and colors.
Shelling can offer tourists souvenirs without a high price tag and open the door to some hands-on scientific learning as you explore the tide pools and wind-swept dunes.
John C. Beasley Park houses an artificial reef brimming with sea life, making it a fan-favorite Destin tourist spot for avid snorkelers.
Beneath the crystalline waters close to shore, you can see schools of colorful wrasse, spadefish, and grouper swimming through the repurposed concrete ecosystem.
If you’re fortunate, you might catch a glimpse of the Gulf’s more elusive species, including dolphins, stingrays, manatees, and sea turtles.
5. Destin Harbor Boardwalk
The Destin Harbor Boardwalk, which opened in 2012, spans a quarter-mile across the ocean and is a perfect place to capture stunning views, family vacation pics, or a summertime selfie.
You’ll find a hub of activity with restaurants, souvenir shops, and local watersports rentals, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the majestic wonders of the waterfront.
6. Destin History & Fishing Museum
For folks interested in the history and fishing industry of this once-quiet little village, the Destin History & Fishing Museum has a lot to offer.
Be prepared to take in 4,000 square feet of antique tackles, catch mounts, and artifacts showcasing the lives of the earliest pioneers who settled in the area around 1830.
One of the most exciting exhibits is the history of The Destin Fishing Rodeo, a world-renowned 31-day fishing tournament that attracts avid anglers from across the globe.
7. Camping
Destin offers plenty of camping options, from primitive sites to full-amenity RV hookups.
Henderson Beach State Park, for example, has 60 tent and RV campsites that you can reserve up to 11 months in advance. It’s a popular choice for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and beach bums who still want the convenience of modern amenities within walking distance.
If sleeping outdoors isn’t your idea of a good time, consider a beachfront home or cabin rental for a cozy stay near the coast.
8. Off-Shore reefs and wrecks
Experienced SCUBA divers and enthusiastic anglers won’t want to miss Destin’s rich array of artificial reef and wreck sites, including the impressive 380-foot Thomas Hayward Liberty Ship.
These off-shore dives are more likely to host octopi, eel, nudibranch, shovelnose lobster, and the behemoth whale shark, a gentle giant that can reach an average length of up to 33 feet!
Destin’s Tourist Development Department recently outlined its 5-year plan to invest in making Destin the dive capital of Florida, with particular emphasis on deep sites for scuba diving.
They have a budget of $8 million to invest in large, seafaring vessels that the team will sink to create high-interest, challenging dives.
9. The Track
There are many go-karting destinations in Destin, Florida, but nothing beats a day spent on The Track.
With five raceways, including the three-story Wild Woody, even the most experienced kart racer will be delighted by the challenging tracks and breakneck speeds.
Kiddie Karts are ideal for first-time drivers, while the Rookie Track offers a more independent experience for bigger kids.
The Destin location is also one of only two locations where drivers can test their skills on the Slick Track. It has a specially-finished surface that will leave you on the edge of your seat as you slip through the curves.
10. Urban Air Adventure Park
Urban Air Adventure Park is the perfect place for families to test their athleticism in a massive complex built for competition.
High-flyers can take a shot at conquering the wall-to-wall APEX trampolines or practice their aerial acrobatics in the DropZone.
Other attractions include a ropes course, laser tag, virtual reality experiences, climbing walls, and more!
11. Banana Bart’s
Is it a vacation if you don’t have souvenirs and gifts to bring home?
Banana Bart’s is a locally-owned gift shop housed in a bright yellow building.
Rather than your standard tourist fare of magnets and shot glasses, you’ll find a curated, eclectic mix of tropical decor, unique knick-knacks, and gorgeous jewelry.
It’s been a staple on Harbor Boulevard for nearly four decades, enticing returning tourists with a new selection of wares each time they visit Destin.
12. Jet skiing
In Destin, one of the best things to do is to get out on the open ocean with a jet ski and let the land become just a dot on the horizon.
There are plenty of jet ski rental locations dotted throughout the village, but all have the same basic legal requirements before they let you drive away on their wave-skippers:
A temporary boat course certificate, unless you were born before January 1, 1988, or are a resident of Florida with a permanent Boating Safety card
This watersport may be too much for small children, but older teens, adults, and solo adventurers will likely have a thrilling time on the ocean. Not to mention, seeing Destin from the water will offer an entirely new perspective on this beautiful city.
13. Wet-N-Wild
With a location close to the famous Crab Island, Wet-N-Wild Watersports is your go-to destination for parasailing, pontoon boat rentals, and dolphin tours.
One of their best services is the guided jet ski tours, where you’ll be treated to a 1.5-hour exploration of Crab Island’s natural marine habitats.
Your guide will lead you to the areas where dolphin pods, sea turtles, and stingrays are most often spotted, giving you an awe-inspiring glimpse into the bounty of Destin’s marine ecosystems.
14. Escape Zone 60
Escape Zone 60 is a fun and immersive experience for puzzle lovers of all ages.
You and your team will race the clock as you search for the clues you’ll need to escape thrilling themed rooms, like a zombie apocalypse and a cabin crime scene.
With a success rate of only 30%, you know you’re in for a challenge and plenty of family fun!
15. Big Kahuna’s Water Park
Big Kahuna’s Water Park is a wonderland of aquatic fun, including water slides, tubing adventures, and attractions to keep you cool in the Florida heat.
Test your courage as you face the five-story Jumanji slide or enjoy the waves and currents of the not-so-lazy Humunga river. For the little ones, Buccaneer Cove, Pleasure Island, and Fun Fountains offer plenty of splashing action in low-depth pools.
Once you’ve had your fill of water, head to Adventure Park, where you’ll find a 54-hole putt golf course with massive animatronics and entertaining auditory commands.
16. Clear kayaking
Ready for a new perspective? Try your hand at coasting over the emerald-green waters in a transparent kayak.
As you slice your paddle through the cool, clear water, you’ll watch the seabed come alive with ocean inhabitants and tropical plants.
It’s one of Destin’s best activities for outdoorsy types who want to level up their kayaking experience and get a rare glimpse of nature at its finest.
This hidden gem of Destin has one of the best ratings for country clubs in the state, thanks to their top-of-line amenities and stunning greens.
Morning tee times start at 7:40, so get there early to beat the afternoon heat. Once you’ve wrapped up your game, unwind with a light lunch at the on-site restaurant.
18. Deep-sea fishing
Are you an avid angler to snag a red snapper, reel in a red drum, or conquer a king mackerel?
Of all the things to do in Destin, deep-sea fishing is an absolute must. It offers some of the best year-round, off-shore access along the Gulf Coast and is also home to the most extensive fleet of fishing charter boats in Florida!
Before settling on a vacation date, check out what’s biting so you can visit during your preferred species’ peak season.
19. HarborWalk Marina
HarborWalk Marina provides some of the most stunning views of the Destin waterfront alongside shopping locations, watersports rentals, fishing docks, and nightlife hotspots.
You’ll want to keep an eye on the event calendar because there’s always something happening in HarborWalk Village, located at the heart of the Marina.
Visit on Thursday from 6:30-9:00 pm for the All-American fireworks display or catch a movie under the stars during a Dive-In Movie at the Pool Deck.
Settle in for a fiery pile of Volcano Nachos or hand-dipped Landshark Lager Fish & Chips in a tropical-colored paradise adorned in tikis.
You can’t visit Margaritaville without partaking in its salty-rimmed namesake, and with a menu of eighteen different flavors, you’re sure to find one that’s too good to share.
21. Bike rentals
Cruising over the sparkling sand on a beach bike will put your weekend treks around your hometown trail to shame.
A beach bike has larger, waterproof tires that can traverse the salty shoreline without damaging the hardware. Some even come with an electronic pedal assist that takes the work out of your relaxing two-wheel cruise.
Check with the bike rental shop for two or three-seater bikes so that you can bring the kids along for the ride.
22. Two-Bit Stable beach horse riding
Seahorses aren’t the only horses that call Destin home!
At Two-Bit Stable, you’ll meet a cadre of well-trained and sure-footed equine adventurers known as the “Beach Bums.” These gorgeous animals receive special training from the time they are still little colts and fillies to work with guests.
If you have any reservations about whether or not these horses are well taken care of, you’ll be glad to know that they are loved and thoroughly pampered when they’re not escorting visitors along the shoreline.
For a truly breathtaking experience, head out at sunrise to watch the watercolored sky come alive over the crystalline waters.
23. East Pass Jetties
Combine rock-climbing and near-shore fishing into one at the East Pass Jetty, a popular fishing honeypot accessible from Osteen Beach Access.
After you make your way over the treacherous rocks, some with straight drops surpassing 20′ onto the sandbar below, you’ll find a rich reward in the form of trout, flounder, mackerel, bluefish, and more.
Be aware of the weather before you head out– Storm conditions cause waves that crest well above the jetty and have swept people out to sea.
24. The Island Pier
The Island Pier, previously known as the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier, stretches out 1,262 feet over the water. It’s a favorite haunt for pelicans, eager to snatch your catch if you’re not being vigilant.
Whether you want to catch a glimpse of sea turtles or spend your day putting your angling skills to the test, The Island Pier is the place for unforgettable memories.
25. Destin Sandcastle Lessons
Sandcastle building is an art and a science, at least in Destin!
Book a class with Destin Sandcastle Lessons, and you will learn how to create incredible sand structures from experts who have grown up on the coast and spent years perfecting their craft.
Your teachers will show you the secret formula for achieving the perfect sand consistency, walk you through the tools of the trade, and mentor you as you practice your burgeoning building skills.
You won’t have to worry about a rainy day spoiling the fun, either, as Destin Sandcastle Lessons offers full refunds in the event of bad weather.
26. Timberview helicopter rides
For vacationers who want a bird’s eye view of the Destin area, there’s no better way than skimming through the clouds on a Timberview helicopter tour.
Your whirlybird pilot will cruise over Destin Commons as you take in the picturesque village below before heading further off-shore.
As you glide over the crystal-clear waters, you’ll have an incredible top-down perspective of the flora and fauna below.
Timberview offers several tour packages and has a 4-guest capacity.
As you stroll across the boardwalk, keep an eye on the sky to see herons, osprey, and native Floridian bird species.
Keep in mind that there are no restrooms, so you won’t have to interrupt your sightseeing for an emergency trip back to town.
28. Crab Island
Just beyond Marler Bridge is Crab Island, one of the most popular things to do in Destin. More than 1,000 locals and visitors congregate here during peak months when it’s packed to the gills with lounging sunbathers sporting a cold beverage and a smile.
One of the most beloved aspects of Crab Island is the boat vendors and mini-shops, where you can buy tasty snacks, inflatables, and sunny-day essentials like sunscreen without ever leaving the water.
Crab Island sometimes hosts marine life; you may spot the occasional stingray or dolphin. However, this area has been more populated in recent years, meaning critters tend to stay far from what was once familiar waters.
29. Destin Dinner Cruise
Why eat on land when you could do it on a luxurious yacht instead?
Aboard the Solaris, you’ll enjoy a three-course fine dining experience, live music, a full bar, and a dance floor as you drift lazily through the Choctawhatchee Bay.
For a truly panoramic view of your surroundings, head to the observation deck and watch the sky transform from fiery orange to the inky black of twilight as the sun sets below the waves.
30. Surfing
Surfers of all skill levels can catch some of the most radical waves on the Gulf Coast at Crystal Beach.
It’s the perfect setting for newbies to try bodyboarding. Get ready for hours of giggles as the waves carry you across the water before planting you safely in the soft sugar sand.
More advanced surfers will find a nice balance of big Kahuna crests and ankle-slappers, but those looking for more juice will want to head to the East Jetty. During the winter, waves can tower up to 10 feet tall!
31. Dolphin Sunset Cruise
Book a ticket for the Southern Star Dolphin Cruise, a glass-bottom ship with an awe-inspiring view of the seafloor.
As you make your way through Destin Harbor and East Pass, watch the horizon as dolphins perform aerial acrobats against a sunset backdrop.
The friendly, sociable marine mammals are known to come right up to the boat and say hello to the visitors onboard!
32. Gator Beach
Gator Beach is your all-access pass to safely interact with the closest thing to a living dinosaur on this side of the Mesozoic Era.
The waters of Gator Beach are stocked with hundreds of alligators, which you can feed from a safe distance. There are also live shows where professional gator guides will teach you about this incredible creature.
Don’t forget to visit Pearl, an incredibly rare albino alligator. Due to her condition, every part of her body is pure white, including her eyes.
The best part, though, is the Crocodilia Discovery Zone. Every year, a new clutch of hatchlings takes up residence in the exhibit until they are old enough to join their scaly-skinned kin in the water.
33. Parasailing
Parasailing involves strapping into a harness with an attached parachute while a boat pulls you through the water.
Once the wind catches your chute, you move from the sea to the sky, floating high above the water as the salty wind whips around you.
While it’s not for the faint of heart, thrillseekers will enjoy this adrenaline-pumping joyride.
34. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is perfect for animal-obsessed youngsters to learn about animals and have once-in-a-lifetime encounters under the watchful eye of experts.
For only $25 per person, you and your family can touch dolphins, swim with stingrays, feed harbor seals, pet penguins, and beyond.
If you’re brave enough, you can get up close and personal with the swamp’s most vicious predator– the American alligator– while they’re still in their small, cute stage.
35. Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone
Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone contains many attractions for the whole family, including a trampoline zone, go-karting tracks, and a hologram area that can give you and your family interactive thrills.
Heat things up with a game of mini-golf or laser tag, then cool off with a cup of Mogo Yogo’s frozen yogurt, complete with all your favorite toppings.
Bumper boats are available, as well, and are a perfect in-between for those who want to enjoy the water but don’t want to get wet.
Final thoughts
With so many things to do in Destin, it’s hard to squeeze all the fun into a single vacation!
Tourists return year after year to while away lazy summer days on white beaches and enjoy all the beauty the Emerald Coast offers.
When you’re ready for your Destin, Florida getaway, don’t forget to book accommodations at one of AvantStay’s Destin seaside properties for a clean, cozy space to recharge for the next day’s adventure.
Vacations are perfect for relaxing, enjoying happy hours, reading a good thriller, and catching up with old friends… until you’ve gotta bring the kids. While they can be harder to entertain, the kids will absolutely love these vacation homes with arcade rooms so you can just do you. Whether you’re looking for a vacation rental with a hot tub, pool, sauna, or just a good TV, these homes are sure to check all the boxes on your dream vacation checklist (because who doesn’t have one of those).
Fin in Inlet Beach, FL
1. Fin – Inlet Beach, FL
Nostalgia is in, boring vacations are out. Bring the game to your vacay at Fin in Inlet Beach – the ideal stay for bringing out the friendly competition in your group. This home comes with an arcade, foosball, air hockey, and ping pong table to keep the kiddos entertained – and a pool and hot tub for your delightful decompression.
Enchanted Forest in Lake Arrowhead, CA
2. Enchanted Forest – Lake Arrowhead, CA
Tucked away in the woods you’ll find Enchanted Forest. With a pool table, ping pong table, foosball, poker table, and six vintage arcade game systems, this game room came to impress. When you’re craving a moment with Mother Nature, head outside where you’ll find plenty of outdoor seating options and a front-row seat to the beauty that is Lake Arrowhead.
Indio Escape in Coachella Valley
3. Indio Escape – Coachella Valley, CA
Indio Escapeis a Coachella Valley home with a modern fire pit, pool, hot tub, and dining table perfect for those al fresco moments. It shines its brightest in the movie room, complete with a mini-arcade – so you get maximum game time.
Sugarland in The Smoky Mountains, TN
4. Sugarland – Smoky Mountains, TN
Sugarland is a Smoky Mountain stay with an entertainer’s dream of a deck. Keep the fun going inside with a car racing arcade game, pool table, home theater, and foosball. Chill out at night with a nice soak in the indoor pool. Make sure to get a good night’s rest, then head out on a hike through the Smokies in the AM.
Monarch in Destin, F
5. Monarch – Destin, FL
Next stop, Destin. Monarch is a resort-level vacation home just a short walk from Henderson Park State Beach. Its bottom floor has a game room with a pool table, foosball, and a vintage Pac-Man arcade game. After some games well done, head outside to the outdoor kitchen and enjoy a swim in the luxury pool with its swim-up bar.
Cliffridge in Malibu, CA
6. Cliffridge – Malibu, CA
Come to Cliffridge for the views. This hillside Malibu stay features a pool table conveniently placed so you get panoramic views of the ocean while you show off your skills. Enjoy luxury amenities like the in-ground spa, fireplace, and for the gamers in your group: a Pac-Man arcade game.
Edgewater in Destin, FL
7. Edgewater – Destin, FL
We solemnly swear we saved the best for last. Edgewater is a Destin vacation home featuring an extra special Harry Potter-themed game room with foosball, Pac-Man, and plenty of board games. Outside you’ll find a hot tub, a private dock, a fire pit, and large sliding doors for incredible indoor/outdoor living.
8. Slice of Heaven – Temecula, CA
Slice of Heaven is a Temeculahome with a game room equipped with a full-size pool table, arcade games like Pacman and NBA, a large 110″ screen with a projector, and a selfie photo station. The stunner home offers stunning views of Lake Skinner, rolling hills, and mesmerizing sunsets.
9. Ever After – Davenport, FL
Welcome to Ever After, a Davenport vacation home where pop culture meets paradise. The highlight of this home is the futuristic game room, equipped with foosball, air hockey, and a vibrant bar, perfect for group hangouts. A Star Wars theater on the second floor promises an immersive movie night experience. Outside, a private screened-in pool, covered patio, and access to community amenities like a pool, basketball court, and mini golf ensure endless entertainment for all guests.
If arcade games aren’t your thing, hundreds of our vacation rentals come equipped with classic games like billiards, shuffleboard, ping pong, and more. Start exploring our destinations to find your perfect stay…
Here at AvantStay, we don’t think the good views should stop after your hike. We’re firm believers in staying at a vacation home that makes you feel on top of the world, day and night. In this roundup, you’ll get to see 10 of our favorite vacation homes with mountain views. Whether you’re looking for a getaway in wine country, Tahoe, or the Smokies, we’ve got you covered.
Bronson – Lake Tahoe, CA
Choosing a favorite mountain-view stay in Lake Tahoe was no easy task. After much debate, we landed on Bronson—and for good reason. Featured on the Emmy award-winning show Staycation, this slopeside retreat in Olympic Valley delivers unbeatable ski-in, ski-out access and jaw-dropping views.
Inside, wood beam ceilings, expansive windows, multiple fireplaces, and a sleek wet bar create a cozy yet contemporary vibe. Outside, an oversized deck with a hot tub invites you to soak it all in—literally. Plus, there’s a table tennis table for when the competition moves indoors.
If you decide to swap the views for some more adventure, Palisades Tahoe, Burton Creek State Park, and Lake Tahoe are just minutes away. You may also check out our curated list of 47 things to do in Lake Tahoe.
Sugarland – Smoky Mountains, TN
A stay in The Smokies is always a good idea. Bring the whole crew to Sugarland where the views are plentiful and the activities are too. Enjoy swims in the indoor pool and movie nights in the home theater. With room for up to 28 guests, there’s room for everyone (even your in-laws).
Nestled among rolling hills and lush forestry, wake up to panoramic mountain views, then spend your days lounging in the indoor pool, catching a movie in the home theater, or perfecting your billiards game in the game room. There’s plenty of space for everyone, making this the best getaway for large groups and families.
You can explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, ride roller coasters at Dollywood, or zip line through the treetops. You may also read our curated list of 35 things to do in the Smoky Mountains.
Camila – Temecula, CA
It’s wine country wonderful here at Camila. This Temecula oasis has plenty of outdoor seating so you and your group get max mountain views while you enjoy your new fav local wine. Inside, you’ll enjoy a koi pond, foosball, billiards, and lovely architecture. Cheers with a hot tub sesh as the sun sets and you’re reminded you just booked your best vacation rental yet.
A modern architectural masterpiece perched high above Temecula’s rolling vineyards with al fresco dining areas, a private pool and hot tub, and a balcony lounge perfect for sipping your new favorite local wine. Inside, the fun continues with a dedicated billiards and recreation room, a chic chef’s kitchen, and spacious, stylish bedrooms designed for pure relaxation.
Whether you’re vineyard-hopping, floating over the valley in a hot air balloon, or indulging in a private chef experience at home, there are a lot of things to do in Temecula!
The Purcell House – Oregon Coast
Welcome to your dream Oregon Coast escape. Soak in the panoramic views on this home’s wraparound deck. Cozy up with your book of the moment in the yard. Take a turn on the tire swing. Walk five minutes down to Manzanita Beach. Where the mountains meet the ocean is where you, too, will experience the perfect harmony that is The Purcell House.
Perched on a secluded bluff at the foot of Neahkahnie Mountain, this timeless retreat has been a haven for those seeking privacy, tranquility, and a touch of nostalgia—even legendary actress Carol Channing once called it home for an extended stay. Outside, manicured half-acre grounds, multiple patios, and a cozy tire swing create the perfect setting for relaxation.
ISO your next WFH destination? Meet Belleza – a Sonoma stay with gorgeous architecture, design, and even better balcony views (ideal for making coworkers jealous of your Zoom background). Spend days lounging by the infinity pool or prove who’s grill master under the shaded grill and chill area. In the spirit of showing off, take your shot at pouring shots and making delicious cocktails at the chic wet bar.
Perched high in the rolling hills of Sonoma, this modern architectural masterpiece has an infinity pool that steals the show, offering a front-row seat to the region’s stunning landscapes. Inside, floor-to-ceiling windows, a chef’s kitchen, a rec room with pool and shuffleboard, and four en-suite bedrooms make it easy and fun for your group.
There are a lot of best things to do in Sonoma County. You can spend your days touring wineries, floating in a hot air balloon, or indulging in farm-to-table dining, where the experiences are nothing short of spectacular.
Cherry Ridge – Breckenridge, CO
Can you believe we made it this far into the list without mentioning our Colorado stays? Neither can we. While we have many gems in the Rockies, Cherry Ridge has to be our dream stay in Breckenridge. This vacation home has massive windows and a spacious deck – ideal for taking in the views around. Enjoy a hot tub soak after a day of skiing or head inside to cozy up by the fireplace for some après-ski drinks.
Big mountains call for an even bigger stay, as this grand alpine escape is designed for epic group getaways. Inside, a stunning grand staircase, opulent bedrooms, and an expansive game room set the stage for fun.
Whether you’re hitting the slopes, exploring Main Street, or simply taking in the breathtaking mountain views, there are a lot of fun things to do in Breckenridge!
Mountain Lover – Park City, UT
If jaw-dropping views and luxury living are your thing, Mountain Lover is calling your name. Perched on a bluff overlooking Jordanelle Reservoir, this sleek Park City retreat has expansive windows that flood the home with natural light, while vaulted ceilings and an airy deck set the stage for unforgettable moments.
Inside, warm up by the fireplace, challenge your group to a game of pool or foosball, or kick back in the private home theater. If you need to recharge, the dual primary suites with fireplaces and spa-like ensuites will do the trick.
Whether you’re hitting the slopes at Deer Valley, exploring Park City’s vibrant Main Street, or soaking in the hot tub under the stars, Mountain Lover makes every moment feel like the perfect getaway.
Snowdrift Cabin – Telluride, CO
First, we want to thank the photographer who ventured out in what appears to be a snowstorm to get these pics. If you had any doubt in your mind, this should confirm that it does in fact snow here. Aptly named, Snowdrift Cabin is a Telluride vacation home with grade A prime ski access on Lift 10’s Galloping Goose trail, an extra large deck, hot tub with views, and a toasty fireplace inside – basically, this house is all you need when you’re looking to have a ski trip.
For skiers, snowboarders, and mountain lovers alike, this classic log home is a dream come true. Nestled right on grade A ski access and unbeatable sunset views over the San Sophia ridgeline, with expansive decks, two spacious living areas, and a loft perfect for the kids, this 3,400-square-foot alpine escape is designed for making winter memories.
The most properly named stay? Right here. Views at Wolf Lodge is a Big Bear vacation rental featuring a hot tub and fire pit on the deck, a sauna, and a ping pong table for those who enjoy a little friendly competition. While there is plenty to do on your trip to Big Bear, we don’t blame you if you stick around at home all day to really take in the views around you.
Located high above Big Bear, panoramic mountain vistas will leave you breathless, and it is just minutes away from Bear Mountain & Snow Summit ski resorts! Indeed, a perfect escape for outdoor lovers. You can sip your morning coffee on the expansive deck, step into the sauna for a well-earned recharge, or unwind in the 7-person hot tub; every moment here is wrapped in nature’s beauty.
Real mountain lovers know all aboutAsheville and its wonders. Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll find the cozy cabin we call Juliet. This stay comes with two decks (so double the views), large windows, a movie room, and a covered hot tub. Vacation like a true Southerner with happy hours spent on the porch sittin’ on your rocking chair, deciding which trail of the mountains you’ll conquer tomorrow.
For those who crave mountain magic with a side of Southern charm, this three-story retreat will let you experience panoramic views you won’t find anywhere else and breathtaking mountain sunsets. A luxurious hot tub is the ultimate way to unwind after a day of adventure, and with multiple BBQ grills and a fully equipped kitchen, keeping the crew well-fed is a breeze.
If you’re hiking through Chimney Rock State Park or just exploring the area, we have a list to guide you through your itinerary! Here’s our list of the top 21 things to do in Asheville.
Tips for High-Altitude Activities
Your mountain trip will surely include outdoor adventures at higher elevations, so it’s important to take some precautions to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
Consider packing altitude sickness remedies like ibuprofen or ginger.
Pack sun protection – sunscreen, hats, sunglasses
Dress in layers for changing conditions
Wear proper hiking footwear with traction
Be aware of local wildlife and food storage
Monitor for altitude sickness symptoms
Know emergency contacts and have a plan
Bring backup power and essential supplies
Take it easy on your first day to allow your body to acclimate, and don’t overexert yourself. Many of these vacation homes also provide access to ski resorts or hiking trails, so be sure to research the terrain and pack appropriate gear and layers to stay comfortable.
Stay at Your Dream Mountain Getaway
Ready to book your next mountain adventure? Explore our curated collection of the best vacation homes with stunning views and start planning your ultimate escape!
Key Takeaways
Whether you’re searching for ski-in/ski-out access, panoramic vineyard vistas, or a serene oceanside retreat, these homes offer the perfect balance of breathtaking scenery and luxurious amenities to elevate your next getaway.
Property
Best For
Key Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Sugarland
Large groups and families
Indoor pool, home theater, billiards room, and panoramic mountain views
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dollywood
Camila
Wine enthusiasts
Private pool and hot tub, koi pond, billiards room, al fresco dining areas
Temecula vineyards, hot air balloon rides, private chef experiences
The Purcell House
Beach lovers and nostalgia seekers
Wraparound deck with ocean and mountain views, tire swing, and manicured grounds
Managing a vacation rental home is no easy feat. From day-to-day operational tasks to competitively pricing your home and STR compliance, there are a lot of moving parts. If managing your vacation rental is keeping you from getting a good night’s sleep, it might be time to partner with a vacation rental management company. As an AvantStay homeowner, you’ll always have peace of mind knowing our dedicated teams are taking care of all the work to maximize your home’s returns. Keep reading to discover how AvantStay acts as your true partner that always has you covered.
Dynamic revenue management
When you partner with AvantStay, you’ll never have to worry about strategically pricing your vacation rental to optimize for bookings. Our team of analysts identifies the unique characteristics of each home, maps 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 that leverages market intel, real-time competitive pricing, and forward-looking demand models. This allows us to optimize ADRs, occupancy, and length of stay for maximum revenue.
We also pair our expert knowledge with the power of our dynamic pricing model that segments each year into 75+ pricing “seasons.” These seasons capture and optimize revenue based on occupancy, day of the week, travel patterns, holidays, market events, and more.
Policy and compliance support
Short-term rental laws are ever-changing, and keeping up with your state, county, and city regulations can be a challenge. Unlike other vacation rental managers, AvantStay has fully dedicated and experienced accounting, permitting, and tax professionals to cover all your compliance needs. 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 so your home is always in good standing. Leave the tedious regulatory work to us!
Tech-enabled platform
Our tech-enabled platform puts you in complete control. AvantStay homeowners stay in the know with our proprietary tech suite that provides property insights, work order management visibility, and better guest management and home protection.
Lighthouse
With Lighthouse, our digital owner portal, you can easily access reservations, work orders, and statement details, view your home’s performance dashboard, check calendar availability, or even book a stay!
Butler
The Butler app makes managing bookings for our guests simple. Guests can view entry instructions, book upgrades and experiences, read house manuals, find local recommendations, or contact our 24/7 support team all from their phone. You’ll never have to deal with another late-night guest request again!
Fresh
We’re able to keep a pulse on quality control with our dedicated vendor management app, Fresh. The app is integrated into our operational processes and systems, and serves as a hub for all Field Operations ticketing, scheduling, and dispatching—the enhanced level of quality and service for your home that AvantStay is known for.
Smart technology package
Our monitoring and prevention (IoT) technology package is added to each home during the onboarding process and installed at no cost to homeowners. This includes a keyless entry system, Ring video camera, and NoiseAware and Party Squasher devices. We monitor noise levels and ensure our guests don’t engage in any excessive partying that could disturb your neighbors or disrupt your community.
Our technology package is also integrated into our operational dashboard, giving our Guest Experience team real-time insight into what’s happening at each property. Our team is alerted anytime someone calls the customer service line about your home. We monitor any neighbor complaints coming through so we can watch security trends both at your home and in the market to decide if additional measures need to be taken. You can sit back and relax knowing that our team is always at the ready.
Best-in-class care (for you and your home)
One of our top priorities is to simplify the short-term rental process for our homeowners while creating lasting memories for our guests. As an AvantStay homeowner, you’ll receive unmatched personalized service and best-in-class care for your vacation rental home.
Proactive home care
We like to be proactive, not reactive. We perform inspections between each guest stay to check for cleanliness and guest readiness. Moreover, every quarter we conduct a full inspection and audit with seasonal considerations to prevent issues before they arise, ensuring your home is cared for and maintained.
To ensure that every AvantStay property is meticulously cared for year-round, we employ a highly trained staff with the highest standards of professionalism and care. At your home, our local operations teams manage maintenance, upkeep, and surveillance, while our housekeeping team professionally cleans after every stay in adherence with CDC cleaning standards and our 100-point cleaning checklist. We also have pre-negotiated rates with top local vendors that we know and trust, saving you money on maintenance costs.
Industry-leading team-to-home ratio
We have a best-in-class ratio of local support to homes with 24/7 dispatching. Each AvantStay home is assigned three main points of contact: an Owner Experience Manager, a local Area Manager, and a Regional Manager, so you always have 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.
Around-the-clock guest support
You can rest assured that anyone staying in your home will have everything they need for a relaxing and memorable vacation. AvantStay guests have access to 24/7 live support via SMS, email, or phone, and we troubleshoot every issue to ensure they are well-cared for so homeowners can sit back and relax without any interruptions.
We take care of stocking the home with guest-ready supplies and provide personalized, thoughtful welcome packages ahead of every stay. Guests can also take advantage of our app and request to book a private chef or in-home massages, request fridge stocking, schedule mid-stay cleans, and more. Our first-class guest care leads to higher satisfaction, more positive reviews, repeat bookings, and increased income for you.
Vacation rental management for your peace of mind
Ditch the stress of managing your vacation rental and partner with a full-service management company like AvantStay. We offer end-to-end, flexible management programs to give you peace of mind. From financials to design to maintenance, we take care of your home as if it were our own. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management, and activates an elevated guest experience. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and reap the rewards—it’s that simple.
We’re getting oh-so-close to the Big Game! Whether you’re just interested in The Puppy Bowl or actually can’t wait to see your team win, we’ve created a roundup with the best Airbnbs with private movie theaters for you to watch this year’s Super Bowl. Bring your best guac, and we’ll bring the stays – these homes are sure to be a winner in your book.
Game On: Celebrating the Super Bowl
The Super Bowl is more than just a game—it’s an American tradition, a cultural phenomenon, and an excuse to gather with friends and family. Since its inception in 1967, the Super Bowl has grown into one of the most-watched sporting events in the world, with memorable moments both on and off the field.
From the Green Bay Packers’ victory in Super Bowl I to Patrick Mahomes leading the Kansas City Chiefs to multiple championships in recent years, each game has its own unique story. Iconic halftime shows, unforgettable commercials, and nail-biting finishes have all contributed to its legendary status.
Now imagine experiencing next year’s Super Bowl in one of our 12 luxurious Airbnbs. Our homes are tailored for the ultimate viewing experience, featuring private movie theaters that bring the excitement of the game right into your living space. Whether you’re cheering for your team or enjoying the halftime show with friends, our properties offer:
State-of-the-art theaters for immersive viewing.
Spacious layouts are perfect for hosting Super Bowl parties.
Premium amenities like pools, gourmet kitchens, and game rooms.
Privacy and comfort, far from crowded bars or stadiums.
Our Airbnbs are not just places to stay—they’re destinations for creating unforgettable Super Bowl memories with your family, friends, and loved ones!
1. Oak and Luna – Big Bear, CA
4 Bedrooms | 10 Guests
You’re scoring big, and it’s not just in the game. Come to Oak and Luna for idyllic views of the great outdoors of Big Bear. Kick your feet back and relax while you watch the Super Bowl in this 6-person indoor theater. After a game is well done, chill out in the hot tub, and cheers to the good life.
With four spacious bedrooms, a pool table, and table tennis, there’s plenty of room for your crew to relax and play. The fully equipped kitchen and spacious dining area make hosting your crew a breeze. Prefer dining al fresco? Take advantage of the outdoor spaces, perfect for grilling and enjoying meals surrounded by nature.
Super Bowl Sunday just found its perfect hideout at Charcoal Chalet. This moody-meets-modern retreat in the Hudson Valley is built for game-day hype. Post up in the cozy living room with a big-screen TV and foosball table, where every play feels like a front-row seat.
Halftime? Fire up the BBQ on the deck for a classic tailgate feast, or take the celebration to the firepit, where the crisp night air keeps things cool while the flames keep you warm. With four spacious bedrooms and plenty of lounge space, there’s room for the whole crew to kick back. Whether you’re here for the game, the commercials, or just the snacks, Charcoal Chalet is your spot for an unforgettable Super Bowl weekend.
Casa Palmera is bringing the heat for Super Bowl weekend—literally. This 6,510-square-foot Palm Springs escape is stacked with everything you need for the ultimate watch party. Think private movie theater, swim-up bar, hot tub, and a sunken outdoor kitchen made for tailgating in style.
With indoor and outdoor dining tables, a wet bar for mixing up cocktails, and a poolside lounge for halftime hangs, there’s no shortage of spots to kick back with your crew. Whether you’re catching every play on the big screen, taking a victory lap in the pool, or closing out the night by the firepit, Casa Palmera is here to make your Super Bowl weekend legendary.
New to Palm Springs? Explore our guide to the best local attractions and activities! Here are 33 things to do in Palm Springs.
4. Among the Clouds – Asheville, NC
3 Bedrooms | 6 Guests
You’re calling the plays, and Among the Clouds is delivering the ultimate game-day setup. Watch every play unfold from the cozy living room, where the gas fireplace keeps things warm and the satellite TV keeps you locked in.
Need a break from the action? Step outside to Asheville, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and sink into the hot tub with a view. Fire up the grill at the fire pit for a next-level halftime feast, then gather around the spacious dining table to celebrate every touchdown. When the game’s over, kick back in one of three comfy bedrooms and wake up to Mt. Pisgah glowing in the morning light. Super Bowl Sunday just leveled up.
Gear up for the ultimate Super Bowl weekend as Ridley Retreat is the perfect spot to host it. This North Padre Island, Corpus Christi getaway comes stacked with everything you need—a cozy living room with a big-screen TV, a foosball table for some halftime competition, and plenty of space to kick back with your crew.
If you need a game-day snack, the fully equipped kitchen is ready for all your favorite eats, from seafood feasts to classic chips and dip. When it’s time to celebrate (or recover from a tough loss), take the party outside to the community pool or hit the nearby beach for a sunset stroll. With three spacious bedrooms, in-home laundry, and all the coastal vibes, Ridley Retreat is where football, fun, and relaxation come together.
Game day just got an upgrade, and it’s happening at Sunny Pond. This Berkshires escape is serving up Super Bowl Sunday with a side of scenic views. Post up in the movie room, where a massive sectional and flat-screen TV ensure you don’t miss a single play.
Hit the game room for darts, board games, or a little friendly competition. When halftime rolls around, fire up the gourmet kitchen or take the party outside for some grill time by the fire pit. And if you’re really playing to win, soak in the pond views from the dock or hop on a pedal boat for a mid-game cruise. With multiple living spaces, seven bedrooms, and endless ways to celebrate, Sunny Pond is your ticket to a legendary Super Bowl weekend.
Bring your A game to this Lake Tahoe A-frame. Timberline is the perfect place to lounge while you’re waiting for Rihanna to come on stage. A trip here entails hot tub seshes, plenty of deck hangs, s’mores by the fire pit, a game or two of billiards, and IG-worthy interior design. This home theater comes with 9 seats that recline, so we hope you’re ready to get cozy.
With a pool table, fire pit for s’mores, and a spacious deck surrounded by trees, there’s no shortage of ways to relax and entertain. Five chic bedrooms and six sleek bathrooms mean plenty of room for your crew to spread out.
Drop a message in the group chat—it’s time for a Super Bowl weekend at Crest One. If the big-screen TV and plush seating don’t seal the deal, the rooftop terrace with panoramic Gulf views of Santa Rosa Beach definitely will. Fire up the outdoor grill for a halftime BBQ, then challenge your crew to Foosball or Ping Pong before taking a victory lap in the heated community pool.
Cruise down to Blue Mountain Beach in the golf cart, soak in the salty air, and grab fresh seafood at one of 30A’s best coastal spots. Whether you’re here for the game, the beach, or the unbeatable sunsets, Crest One is where game-day energy meets laid-back luxury.
Colorado is calling. Text the group chat and tell them you’re headed to River Rock. If it weren’t for this Airbnb’s extra cozy movie theater, let it be for that lovely hot tub on the deck where you can sit and watch the snow fall. Extend your stay past the game day weekend and head to the nearby Breckenridge Ski Resort, where you can spend days soaking up all Breckenridge has to offer.
This cozy ski home in Breckenridge is your ultimate Super Bowl getaway, complete with a stone-walled fireplace, a game room/home theater, and a hot tub on the deck where you can watch the snow fall.
Is it game time yet? That’s what you’ll be saying while you’re soaking up everything Bear Creek Bliss has to offer. This 3600 sq ft Poconos retreat is packed with amenities to keep the fun going long after the final whistle. The game room is an entertainment hub, featuring billiards, foosball, shuffleboard, and a stocked bar—perfect for friendly competition and celebratory drinks.
Step onto the expansive wrap-around deck, where you can take in serene forest views or warm up by the outdoor gas firepit under a starlit sky. With six comfortable bedrooms, this home accommodates up to 16 guests, ensuring everyone has a spot to unwind. The fully equipped kitchen and thoughtful touches like linens, towels, and fluffy pillows make your stay effortless.
Make unforgettable memories surrounded by nature and fun! Discover more of our Poconos cabins here!
11. Black Bear Cabin – Bend, OR
4 Bedrooms | 10 Guests
Black Bear Cabin is your Bend retreat with mountain views, fresh air, and laid-back luxury. This Airbnb is all about modern comfort and outdoor adventure, with a hot tub, firepit, and spacious patio perfect for taking in those famous high-desert sunsets. Inside, the cozy living room with a fireplace sets the stage for movie nights and game-day gatherings. When you’re not watching the action, hit the Deschutes River Trail or grab a pint on the Bend Ale Trail—this spot is just minutes from the best of Central Oregon.
Watch the game by the fireplace in the cozy living room, then take things outside to the hot tub and patio lounge for post-game relaxation. Fire up the BBQ for an al fresco meal, or head downtown to explore Bend’s breweries and cocktail bars.
Pinot?! This wine pairs well with pretending to know what’s happening in the game. Pinot Point is a 5-bedroom home with an infinity pool that pours off into views of the rolling Temecula hills. Make sure you’re stocked up on beer – there’s more than enough seating for everyone to have a “cheers” outside after you’ve spent the game day in this Airbnb’s private theater.
The backyard oasis also offers plenty of space to relax, with a hot tub for unwinding and a chic firepit area for cozy evenings under the stars. Dine al fresco at the large outdoor table as the sun sets behind the hills, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Excited to sip and explore Temecula? Here are 22 best things to do while you are in the area.
Key Takeaway
Experience the Super Bowl like never before by booking one of AvantStay’s luxurious Airbnbs featuring private movie theaters. Here are our standout properties perfect for hosting game-day parties:
Oak and Luna – Big Bear, CA
Charcoal Chalet – Hudson Valley, NY
Casa Palmera – Coachella Valley, CA
Among the Clouds – Asheville, NC
Ridley Retreat – Corpus Christi, TX
Sunny Pond – Berkshires, NY
Timberline – Lake Tahoe, CA
Crest One – Santa Rosa Beach, FL
River Rock – Breckenridge, CO
Bear Creek Bliss – Poconos, PA
Black Bear Cabin – Bend, OR
Pinot Point – Temecula, CA
There’s a lot more where that came from! Click here for our full collection of homes with movie theaters – and may the best team win.
Score Big on Your Ultimate Super Bowl Getaway
Experience a great Super Bowl match with our handpicked selection of luxurious Airbnbs featuring private movie theaters. Whether you’re cheering for your team, enjoying the halftime show, or indulging in delicious game-day snacks, our stunning homes offer the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories with friends and family. Explore top-notch amenities and beautiful locations that make your game day a true celebration with AvantStay!
If you’re ISO of the ultimate decompression session, there’s nothing quite like a vacation rental complete with your very own infinity pool. Whether you’re looking to escape your everyday life or just want to spruce up your IG feed, we rounded up our favorite homes with private infinity pools that do the most.
So grab your floaties, pack your “out of office” energy, and scroll on—because these homes were made for main character moments. Let’s dive in!
Belleza – Glen Ellen, CA
10 guests | 4 bedrooms
Bellissima? No, we said, Belleza. Say hello to Sonoma at this hilltop home with a plentiful selection of outdoor seating, an outdoor grilling lounge, and ping pong. Oh, and we almost forgot to say, soak the day away in the infinity pool! It’s sleek, sunlit, and packed with features that make it way more than just a place to crash after wine tasting.
This one’s for the design lovers as you’ll get to enjoy multiple balconies, an inner courtyard, floor-to-ceiling windows, a chef’s kitchen inside, and a stone oven outside. Hit a few games of ping pong or shuffleboard, or stretch out poolside by the infinity edge that disappears into the landscape. And yes, every bedroom has its own en-suite.
You know you’re in for something good when the driveway alone feels like an entrance to a vineyard estate. Say your hello’s to Rancho Notso Grande, where your crew can spread out across a luxury hilltop retreat with sweeping views, vineyard vibes, and an infinity pool that steals the show. The outside scene is a chef’s kiss! There’s a sun-soaked patio, a hot tub, and twin dining tables made for golden hour hangs.
You’ll get curved with the sun-filled layout, a chef-worthy kitchen, and a living room that makes you want to light a candle and stay awhile. Four dreamy bedrooms, including a primary suite with a soaking tub and a balcony, round out the cozy, wine-country experience.
A stay at Pinot Point calls for a glass of Pinot. Experience Temecula the way it was meant to be – infinity poolside at a sprawling estate with luxe amenities like an outdoor bar and grill, ping pong table, and a hot tub with views for days.
If Temecula had a crown jewel, Pinot Point would be wearing it. This hilltop hideaway brings together vineyard views and wide-open skies, creating a stay that feels like your own private resort. Sunset swims, wine around the firepit, and al fresco dinners with views that go on forever, celebrating something big or just life itself, Pinot Point has nailed the assignment.
Two homes. One epic stay. The Bradley Circle Buyout combines two side-by-side beachfront estates into one unforgettable getaway. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, wedding weekend, or big group getaway, this setup delivers in a major way—with not one, but two infinity pools, direct beach access via private boardwalks, and room for everyone to spread out.
This house comes with game rooms, home bars, multiple balconies with ocean views, and massive kitchens made for feeding a crowd. Plus, you’ll find a pool table, ping pong, foosball, and plenty of chill zones for post-beach relaxation. There’s even a home office if anyone actually needs to work (but like…why?).
Sunshine, vineyard vibes, and a private infinity pool—what more could you ask for? Syrah is your go-to for a wine country escape that’s as stylish as it is relaxing. This bright, modern bungalow is nestled in the heart of Sonoma and comes with all the right ingredients: an open floor plan, plush furnishings, and plenty of natural light pouring through French doors and big windows.
Out back, the infinity pool and deck are where you’ll want to spend most of your time—lounging, sipping, and soaking up that Sonoma sun. It’s quiet, comfy, and just minutes from all the best wineries. Bring your favorite people and your best pool floaties. You’re gonna love it here.
Massive home with endless ocean views, plus a dreamy infinity pool. Welcome to Isola Palma or 114 Ocean Blvd, a 7-bedroom beachside escape that’s perfect for big family trips, milestone celebrations, or just a much-needed girls’ getaway. With four oceanfront decks, a screened porch, and a rooftop sunbathing deck, you’ll have no shortage of spots to sip your morning coffee or your favorite sunset spritz.
Bringing in the wow-factor, the ocean-facing infinity pool, private wet bar, full-size basketball court, a playground, and even an outdoor locker room are here for your post-beach rinse-offs. Inside? It’s all warm wood tones, big comfy couches, a game room for the kids, an elevator, and just plenty of space.
Tuscany meets Temecula at Casa del Arbol, this star-studded stay is located in the rolling hills of our favorite part of wine country. It’s one of our faves for its pool, terrace, private hiking trail, and basketball court. We’re not the only ones that have a soft spot for this stay – Casa del Arbol was featured on the Emmy award-winning TV show, Staycation! Click here to see the video.
A warm, elegant, and full of natural light, with hardwood floors, French doors, and comfy living spaces, greets you after a long day of wine tasting. There’s plenty to keep you busy too: a basketball court, tons of lounge space, and dreamy golden hour lighting for your next photo dump.
This one’s for the crew that wants their beach trip with a splash of luxury. Set just a short stroll from Singleton Beach, Coastal Marsh is the ultimate multi-level, marsh-front mansion moment. With bedrooms spread across three breezy stories and views that stretch across the serene tidal waters, this stay is a straight-up vibe.
The infinity pool is doing the most, giving you postcard-worthy views from your float. While firing up the grill for a group dinner, soaking in the hot tub, or challenging someone to a game of cornhole between dips. And don’t even get us started on the ping pong table and pool table—game on!
Looking to cross Scottsdale off your bucket list? Why not do so via the infinity poolside at Sunbeam? This Mediterranean hilltop oasis features panoramic views of its AZ surroundings, stunning interior design, and a hot tub perfect for cooling off after a long day of hiking at any of the nearby parks.
Whether you’re starting your day with a sunrise espresso on the upstairs patio or ending it with a cocktail by the wet bar, this home brings the energy. The infinity pool and spa combo is a total showstopper too—perfect for mid-day dips or golden hour lounging.
Ever float in a whiskey barrel infinity pool while looking out over the Smokies? Yeah, didn’t think so. Whiskey Ridge brings you that “wow, is this real life?” kind of energy with epic 180° views, a cozy-modern mountain vibe, and a setup made for groups who want to relax and have a little fun. Start the morning with coffee on the deck, then chill in the hot tub that includes mountain views and fire up the grill.
Throw down at the foosball table, or settle in for movie night in the game room lounge. Between the spa-like bathrooms, massive kitchen, and crackling fireplace, you’ve got everything you need to live your best Smoky Mountain life.
Ok, last time we’ll flex it, but here’s another stay that made it to Staycation. Sumit Ranch is a Temecula vacation home tucked into the hills with your own vineyard as the backdrop. This estate is serving serious “sip, soak, and stay awhile” energy as the infinity pool melts right into the valley views, and with a hot tub, fire pit, and outdoor dining setup, you’ll never want to head back inside.
But when you do? You’ll find a light-filled space with an interior design that’s as laid-back as it is luxe. The primary suite is a stunner, the foosball table’s ready for game night, and the whole place is single-level, so no hauling wine bottles upstairs. It’s private, peaceful, and perfect for your next unplugged getaway or birthday weekend with the girls.
Infinity pool with a beach view? Go ahead and add this one to your dream board. Beach Haven is your group’s ticket to beachfront living done right—sun, sand, and serious comfort, just steps from Fort Lauderdale’s golden shore. Grab a morning coffee and walk across the street to the beach, or stay poolside where the ocean is your backdrop. Either way, you win.
The setup’s built for groups, with a unique layout; multiple suites and private patios that give everyone space to do their own thing. The hot tub, BBQ grill, and al fresco dining setup make it easy to turn every evening into a full-on sunset dinner party with rosé and rooftop selfies.
Some beach houses just feel like the main event— and 3108 Palm is one of them. With a private boardwalk to the sand and an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, this place is made for slow mornings, breezy evenings, and golden hour everything. Start your mornings with barefoot walks straight to the shore, then spend your afternoons lounging poolside or firing up one of the two grills for a laid-back lunch.
The backyard setup is next-level: a shaded outdoor lounge, al fresco dining with ocean views, a built-in grill station, and a hot tub to cap off the night. The outdoor setup with the fire pit lounge is a vibe all on its own. For a long weekend or a much-needed break with friends, 3108 Palm is that “we’re never leaving and self-care” kind of stay.
Not too far from the buzz of downtown, but just far enough to feel like a true escape—Barton is where tranquility and Texas views meet the poolside. Perched above a small lake just off the Colorado River, this hilltop retreat is perfect for groups looking to chill, grill, and soak it all in. Your crew can kick back on the Baja shelf in the infinity pool, unwind in the hot tub, or cheer on your team from the outdoor patio TV setup.
Got a competitive side? There’s ping pong, a fire pit for late-night hangs, and a built-in grill for next-level BBQ nights. Inside, it’s warm, modern, and built for downtime. It’s your own little slice of Austin, with extra calm and a killer view.
So you have a lot of friends? Take them to Warhol. This Temecula vacation rental can fit up to 20 people! We’re not even sure if a group text can sustain that many people, but if you’ve got that many friends, cheers to you. This stay boasts an infinity pool, hot tub, pool table, ski ball table, shuffleboard, ping pong table, fire pit, balcony, and tons of board games.
This mega-mansion comes stacked for lounging, grilling, and full-on champagne toasts. With multiple living areas, a full kitchen, there’s enough space to avoid your cousins when the Monopoly game gets intense.
Even More Amenities
The inspo doesn’t stop here. When it comes to extraordinary amenities, we have so much more to offer, too! Check out our other homes with other house amenities you’d like to have this summer!
Let’s be real—any vacation is a good vacation. But one with a private infinity pool, incredible views, and zero shared loungers with strangers? Now we’re talking.
Every home on this list brings its own flavor: some are perched on cliffs, others tucked into vineyards, and a few drop you right on the beach—but what they all have in common is the luxurious vibe.
Whether you’re gathering your crew for a birthday weekend, planning the ultimate group retreat, or just need an “I deserve this” kind of moment, these homes have it covered:
📸 Insta-worthy backdrops (sunsets included)
💦 Private pools + hot tubs with unbeatable views
🎯 Game rooms, putting greens, and all the toys
🍽️ Chef’s kitchens and outdoor dining setups are made for celebrations
🛏️ Space for everyone to spread out, sleep well, and stay awhile
The Dates Are Filling Fast—Book Before Your Favorite Home Is Gone
Apart from the seamless group travel experience and a plentiful selection of luxury in-app upgrades, AvantStay homes are in primo locations, even more than what we just covered. Plus, these homes aren’t just stays—they’re experiences, and they’re booking up fast.
So don’t wait around. Browse available dates, rally the group chat, and get ready to float your worries away this summer. Find your dream stay now at AvantStay.com before someone else grabs your perfect weekend!
Challenge: Give real estate investor peace of mind and maximize revenue so she can focus on growing her portfolio.
Background
Mariah owns several short-term rental properties in Temecula and Sonoma. While she loves getting her properties up and running, her true passion is searching for investment properties to use as short-term rentals. Last year, Mariah started researching vacation rental management companies to partner with. Her goal is to focus her time on finding new additions for her short-term rental portfolio.
Mariah researches everything, which is why she excels at finding new homes to purchase. She understands the ROI when a property is maintained properly. Finding a company to take proper care of her homes, bring in the right revenue, and not list them for bottom-dollar were her top priorities. However, during her search, Mariah found that most management companies’ revenue projections were less than what she was already making on her own.
Mariah finally reached out to AvantStay for a free revenue projection for one of her Temecula homes. She was pleased to learn that our projection perfectly aligned with her revenue goals.
Solution
Mariah always thought of AvantStay as the “high-end” option but was even more interested when she learned about our interior design offerings and in-app upgrades and experiences for guests.
“I like to think that I have an eye for design, so I appreciated AvantStay’s consultation. They showed me how they would rearrange some of the main living spaces and the back patio to increase functionality and occupancy,” said Mariah. “Not only is their design aesthetic beautiful, but the new, complementary furniture has seen a ton of guests and looks as good as it did on day one.”
The guest experience and positive reviews are also important to Mariah. Taking care of guests during their stay was one of the most time-consuming parts of managing her own homes. She was thrilled to leverage AvantStay’s upgrades and experiences. Mariah’s guests can now easily arrange everything from local chefs to local tours, mid-stay cleanings, in-home spa treatments, transportation services, and more.
Property performance
Time with AvantStay: 12 months Occupancy rate: 71% Weekend occupancy rate: 78.8% 2021 realized revenue: $96,600
Results
After one year of partnering with AvantStay, Mariah knows she made the right decision. Her Temecula home has more bookings and is generating more income than she saw while managing the home on her own.
“This past July, we had over $33,000 in bookings which is my best month out of all my homes to date,” said Mariah. “I’m blown away by the performance and the positive feedback from guests.”
Mariah has now been consistently getting five-star reviews on both Airbnb and HomeAway. A common sentiment from guests is that they appreciate the “excellent customer service” and amenities.
Now that Mariah has more money and time, she is excited to reinvest in her short-term rental business. She even has plans to list three more properties with AvantStay.
Interested in learning more about vacation rental management with AvantStay? Our team of experts is here to help. Unlock your vacation rental’s full value and get started with our team today.
The Smoky Mountains have plenty to offer – from gorgeous hikes in Gatlinburg to sightseeing in Pigeon Forge, from sampling Tennessee moonshine to, of course, experiencing Dollywood. In this article, we’ll cover the best vacation homes to book for an IG-worthy photoshoot without even leaving the house. We do understand that you’ve got lots to explore while you’re there, too, so we also included cute local spots and hikes to check out when you’re looking for a change of scenery.
Pine Rise
Pine Rise is a four-story tall cabin in Sevierville complete with 10 rooms, two kitchens, two hot tubs, and decks on each level. This home also has its own movie theater, but when you’re looking to explore more of the outdoors, we recommend making the short drive to Anakeesta. This outdoor theme park has activities for the whole crew: including a rollercoaster, treetop skywalk, restaurants, ziplining, and plenty of photo ops along the way.
Sugarland
Hello, Sugarland. With 12 beds, 12.5 baths, and room for up to 28 guests, this home is an absolute beast – not only for its ability to fit the entire group chat but also for its photogenicity. Strike a pose on the spacious deck with panoramic views of the Smokies, chill out on the hanging chairs, take a dip in the indoor pool, or cheers to the sunset in the side-by-side hot tubs. For a “phone eats first” moment, head for good ole’ country cooking at Five Oaks Farm Kitchen.
Duval
Came for Duval’s outdoor seating, and stayed for the heated indoor pool with beach entry. We recommend posing under the pool’s waterfall – dim the lights to let the pool’s LEDs really shine for an ambiance like no other. For a different angle, check out the Gatlinburg Space Needle located in the downtown strip.
Chestnut
Going nuts for the views at Chestnut. Our favorite photo-op in this house has to be in the living room. Post up on the cozy couch where the panoramic views of the mountains behind you are sure to shine on your IG feed. Reach new heights in your photo game with a trip to the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, where you’ll experience the world’s longest pedestrian bridge (on top of great shots)!
Little Sparrow
Come to Little Sparrow for a traditional cabin charm with a modern twist. This stay has all you need for a shoot with its pool, hot tub, and elevated views that make for a great backdrop. Fancy a shot in the standing tub? Go off. For a daytime adventure, head to NC to hike the (half-mile) highest point along the Appalachian Trail, Clingman’s Dome.
Wilder
This Smoky Mountain retreat is a winner with its indoor pool, hot tub overlooking the Smokies, and large deck perfect for finding the ideal lighting. Wilderis a home that not only delivers in amenities but also puts you in a prime location for a trip to Pigeon Forge, where you can visit The Old Mill for pics by the waterfall and grist mill.
Foxview
Become one with nature at Foxview – a Sevierville stay where the photo-ops are endless. Post up by the deck with stunning views of the forest around you. Put your comfiest clothes on and get a shot sipping hot cocoa by the indoor fireplace. If you’re looking for a new backdrop, head to Crave Golf Cluband pose by their candy-infused mural.
Tennessee Blue
Make sure to grab some Tennessee moonshine from Ole Smoky in order to have a proper cheers at Tennessee Blue. Set your tripod up in front of the picturesque hanging swing on the first floor, or grab the group and pose while you dine al fresco under the open skies. Take in the fresh air and soak away a day well done in the hot tub.
Copperhead
Say hello to your new favorite getaway home. Copperheadis a modern Smoky Mountain stay complete with this incredible pool, hot tub, and great natural light for all the pics you’re about to take. Cozy up by the fireplace, or have an amusement-filled day at Dollywood.
Hickory Ridge
Here’s where to stay in the Smokies if you’ve got a drone. Hickory Ridge is nestled in the trees of Gatlinburg and comes with three large balconies, incomparable views, two hot tubs, and all the porch-sitting you can handle. When you’re ready to put your hiking boots on, head to Porters Creek Trail for beautiful waterfalls, a historic cemetery (if that’s your vibe), and a historic farm site.
One of the easiest ways to make your vacation rental stand out is by providing top-of-the-line amenities. Vacation rental amenities are additional features that provide comfort, convenience, and enjoyment for your guests. Amenities help create an exceptional guest experience, drive more positive reviews and repeat visitors, and ultimately increase your rental income. Below are our top picks for amenities that will set your vacation rental apart from the competition.
Popular vacation rental amenities
Because vacation rental homes compete with hotels, it’s important to provide amenities that make your home stand out and entice guests to book with you. Potential guests can filter their searches on top OTAs, like Airbnb and Vrbo, for preferred amenities like pools, BBQs, and games. To drive bookings, it’s important to promote everything your home has to offer across listings (especially the intangible perks like location!). Let your beachfront cottage or ski-in/ski-out cabin shine.
There are some amenities that guests now view as a need rather than a nice-to-have. These can make or break a good review, so invest in the following if you can:
In addition, use your vacation rental’s location for inspiration. Is your home on the water? Have kayaks, paddle boards, and other water toys ready for guests to enjoy. Outdoor fire pit? Don’t forget the roasting sticks and supplies for s’mores. Dreamy desert oasis? Designate a space for a “yoga studio” so guests can find their zen. These little luxuries won’t go unnoticed and can lead to more bookings and higher ratings.
AvantStay’s top picks for vacation rental amenities
Part of what defines an AvantStay home are experiential elements and spaces designed for gathering. We help owners supercharge their home with premium amenities, allowing them to charge higher ADRs and still optimize for occupancy. That means more income for you! Check out these fan-favorite amenities that go into nearly every AvantStay home.
Well-stocked modern kitchen
One of the main draws to booking a short-term rental home over a hotel is the ability to cook your own meals. Every AvantStay home has an upgraded kitchen furnished with new appliances so guests can whip up their own meals and make memories over family dinners.
Upgrades and experiences via the AvantStay app
One amenity that sets AvantStay apart from other vacation rental management companies is our app. Guests can take advantage of our in-app upgrades and experiences to schedule mid-stay cleans, request fridge stocking, book a private chef or in-home massages, and more. All just a click or text away!
Games and activities
From ping pong, billiards, and foosball, to putting greens, pickleball, and bocce ball, there’s no shortage of games and activities at AvantStay homes. Our in-house design team incorporates unique elements into each home that are inspired by local surroundings. They add indoor and outdoor games to improve the experiential elements of the home and make it both welcoming and fun for guests.
Outdoor space
Private outdoor spaces where guests can entertain and relax are another top differentiator from hotels. While our amenities vary by location and climate, most of our homes have pools, hot tubs, BBQ setups, and outdoor fire pits.
How to make your vacation rental stand out
Vacation rental amenities can be the difference maker between a good and bad vacation, and ultimately determine the reviews your guests leave. When you partner with AvantStay, we do all the work to make your vacation rental stand out and drive more bookings. We leverage our unique combination of powerful technology, best-in-class operations, and award-winning design to create an unparalleled guest experience. Our brand resonates with travelers everywhere and our responsive, guest-centric customer service delivers a consistent, premium experience that brings our guests back time and time again.
Our brand is defined and recognized by a consistent aesthetic across our homes. This includes new furnishings, stylish decor, and top-of-the-line amenities. We help procure and install high-quality, durable furniture and amenities, and take care of the professional photoshoot—for free!
If you’re interested in learning more about AvantStay’s amenities packages and vacation rental management programs, our team of experts is ready to help. Get started today!
The thrill of a perfect three-pointer on the basketball court and the cheers echoing under the sun. End the day by grilling on the BBQ and enjoy dinner al fresco with your family or loved ones, guaranteed to get your head in the game – vacation and all.
One thing about us: we’re firm believers that you should never have to leave your hobbies at home. That’s why we created this MVP roundup of vacation homes with private basketball courts – perfect for players who like to consider themselves sharpshooters, fanatics, and everything in between even during a trip.
From spacious estates perfect for large groups to cozy getaways ideal for family fun, in this blog, we have compiled a list of our vacation homes with basketball courts. Explore your options and book your stay today!
1. Malvasia – Sonoma
From the pool to the hot tub, the basketball court to the billiards, Malvasia got it going. Lucky for you, this stay’s located in sunny Sonoma, CA, where sunshine graces the valley. When you’ve soaked up all the sun you can handle, hang out by the rooftop that overlooks the surrounding countryside. This unique 5-bedroom retreat offers a luxurious escape just 20 minutes from Sonoma Valley’s finest wineries and vineyards, making it the perfect base for wine enthusiasts.
Aside from the wineries in Sonoma, there are still a lot of activities to do while you’re around. Check out our guide on the best things to do in Sonoma County.
2. Desert Splash – Scottsdale
He shoots, and he scores (with this home). Desert Splash is a 5-bedroom stay in Scottsdale, AZ with room for up to 14 guests. Get your head in the game with all this outdoor oasis has to offer: a newly painted basketball court, fire pit, and an oh-so-inviting pool. Challenge your friends to a ping pong match, fire up the built-in BBQ for a championship feast, and gather around the fire pit to recount the day’s victories.
Swish you were here! Located in Cloverdale, Sonoma, Chianti is this retreat-ready estate with its own basketball court, swimming pool, hot tub, and pickleball court. The game doesn’t stop once you step off the court – thanks to the converted garage, you can have a foosball and billard sesh. At night, relax under the stars decked out with the pool to enjoy a dreamy night swim. Accessed only via a private, winding road, this hidden gem provides a serene and grand experience.
If you are in Sonoma for “wine hopping,” read the 5 scenic Sonoma County Wineries that you may want to visit and add to your list of places to go!
4. Villa Verdot – Temecula
Game on. Villa Verdot is a 6-bedroom Temecula stay complete with a basketball court, spacious lawn, patio, wet bar, swimming pool, hot tub, and tennis court. Relax the hammock after a game or two then make your way to the outdoor kitchen where you can show everyone who the grill master is around here. Enjoy a meal al fresco or head inside to the expansive dining table and cheers to a vacay well done.
Odds are, if you’re taking a trip to Central Oregon, you’ve got a thing for it. Next time you find yourself in, stay at Pioneer, a vacation home we have at Brasada Ranch Resort, enjoy a round of golf, engage in friendly competition on the volleyball or basketball courts, explore scenic trails on horseback, or try out the indoor gym. This expansive 4-bedroom estate has room for up to 10 guests and has all the amenities you would need, thanks to the Brasada Ranch community.
Embrace the pure life at this inviting ground-floor condo in Port Aransas, nestled within the Island Retreat complex. With direct boardwalk access to the beach and stunning sand dune views, Pura Vida is just steps away from the Gulf’s soothing waves. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom retreat comes with a community pool, basketball hoop, tennis court, and pickleball court.
Staying with a big group? You can rent our other Island Retreat homes through a buyout!
Welcome to Hygge Home! This Poconos paradise awaits within Brier Crest Woods, where you can gather around, enjoy the warmth of a fire pit, and have fun in the community park by the lake. This 3-bedroom home offers a perfect base for exploring the Poconos, with easy access to skiing, waterparks, hiking, boating, fishing, and dining. During summer months, you get to enjoy lake/beach access with provided wristbands
Coachella Valley is home to this stunner of a stay complete with a pool for lounging during the day, a fire pit for gathering around with friends, and string lights overhead for when the sun sets and the party comes alive. For extraordinary experiences, perfect for work retreats, wellness getaways, brand activations, and any event where you want to create lasting memories, Villa Verbena scores as the winner of your next vacation home.
Other Coachella Valley homes with a basketball ring:
Skylight is the game-winning buzzer-beater, an Oregon mountain pad that’s basically a pass to awesome. Designed for your squad to run the floor and drop dimes of unforgettable memories, this 7-bedroom house can cater to 16 guests where you and your crew can chill in sprawling lounge zones, laugh till your sides hurt over an alfresco meal, and generally have the kind of good time in the hot tub under the stars.
If you are interested in venturing to more places aside from having indoor fun, here are our best suggestions on what to do in Central Oregon.
10. Victorian Manor – Paso Robles
We hope you’re a team player – Victorian Manor has room for the whole crew, up to 28 guests. Sprawl out in this 12-bedroom Paso Robles oasis filled with all the vacation activities you could ever need: a private basketball court, fire pit, pool, kid’s playroom, and plenty of outdoor lounge areas for an al fresco dining moment. When you’re ready for a change of scenery, try out a wine-tasting experience at one of the renowned East Paso wineries.
We have so much more to offer when it comes to extraordinary amenities. Check out these other posts where we dive into more of what makes AvantStay a cut above the rest:
Ideas for Organizing Epic-Friendly Tournaments or Competitions
Bracket-Style Tournament: Participants are organized into a bracket, typically resembling a tree diagram. Participants are paired off, and the winner of each match advances to the next round, while the loser is eliminated. This continues until only one winner remains. It’s a single-elimination system, creating a clear path to the championship.
How It Works:
Draw up a visual bracket (whiteboard, poster, or even a digital bracket on a shared screen).
Teams are randomly seeded or pre-seeded based on skill (if you know your group).
Single-elimination: One loss, and you’re out! This creates high-stakes and intense matches.
Consider a “consolation bracket” for teams eliminated early, giving them more playing time.
Round Robin Tournament: Each participant plays every other participant a predetermined number of times. Everyone competes against each other and the winner is typically determined by the participant with the most wins or the best overall record.
How it Works:
Every team plays every other team once. This ensures maximum playing time and fairness.
Track wins, losses, and point differentials to determine the final standings.
Perfect for groups where everyone wants to play a lot.
Themed Tournaments: Incorporate a specific theme to enhance the experience beyond just the standard gameplay. This could involve costumes, music, decorations, or specific rules, all tied to the chosen theme. The purpose is to create a more immersive, entertaining, and memorable event, adding a layer of fun and creativity to the competition.
Theme Examples:
“90s NBA Night”: Dress in retro jerseys, play 90s hip-hop, and try to replicate classic NBA moves.
“Trick Shot Challenge”: Focus on creative and ridiculous shots.
“Around the World Championship”: See who can master every shooting spot.
“Celebrity Look-Alike”: Each player acts like a famous basketball player.
If you’re looking to get into the Halloween spirit then haunted hayrides, corn mazes, and graveyards are probably already on your agenda every October. But if you’re really looking for the true spooky season experience, why not visit the locations of some horror movie classics that will be sure to send chills down your spine? We gathered up a list of scary movie locations you can actually visit because there’s no better Halloween scare than an authentic one.
Halloween (2018) — Charleston, SC
You can spot many glimpses of Charleston throughout this continuation of a classic franchise. You can even follow the path that Michael Myers took in the most recent installment of the famous slasher saga. While you’re there, be sure to visit local favorite restaurantsBurton’s Grill and Bon Bahn Mi. The local Military Magnet High School also features those infamous checkered floors.
Check out our homes in Charleston that provide the perfect home base while you retrace the steps for Michael Myers.
Evil Dead — Morristown, TN
Evil Dead tells a classic 80s-style horror story of five college students whose remote vacation takes a nasty turn. The eerie charred remains of the 1981 film’s cabin still exist in the woods of the Smoky Mountains, left over from a fire a few years ago.
We have tons of Smoky Mountain homes perfect for a rusticly spooky escape. Some — like Duval and Smoky Cove Lane 2 — even have private indoor pools so you can take a midnight dip no matter the season.
Texas Chainsaw Massacre — Austin, TX
This influential horror film intrigued the minds of many to travel to its Austin-area sites. You can even visit the gas station in the movie—it’s now a barbecue restaurant called Texas Gas Station! If you wonder whether the restaurant has nods to the film, it does! You can buy horror merchandise inside, and the outside has a “We Slaughter Barbecue” sign.
Our Austin retreats are ready to help you celebrate the fall season. For something dramatic and moody to match the Halloween atmosphere, Barton is a top choice.
Scream — Sonoma, CA
Come to Sonoma if you want a glimpse of the town that produced the meta-slasher saga starring Ghostface. Fun fact: The school they wanted to shoot the film in didn’t allow them to do so, so in the final credits of the movie, the production team put a “No Thanks Whatsoever To” category in, thus resulting in the essential blacklisting of Sonoma County for the film industry.
Nothing says “Blockbuster thriller” like a massive house on a hill. Need plenty of rooms, hallways, and open space to explore and sneak through? Belleza or any of our Sonoma homes you covered.
Although the 1997 film is set in North Carolina, the scenic views of Sonoma County can be seen in the film’s opening scenes. Starring Jennifer Love-Hewitt, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Freddy Prinze, Jr., it was based on a novel of the same name and is considered to have revitalized the slasher genre for a new generation.
Relive your own last summer at one of our Sonoma retreats. Many of these homes have outdoor pools so you can watch the colors change around you on balmier autumn days!
Cape Fear — Fort Lauderdale, FL
Starring Robert DeNiro and Jessica Lange, Martin Scorcese’s remake of the 1962 film turns Broward College into the film’s “New Essex High School.” Many of the water scenes, too, were shot in Everglades National Park.
Our Fort Lauderdale collection puts you scary close to the beach. From homes like Sea Breeze and Casa Bermuda, a quick walk across the street will land you on the shore.
A Quiet Place — Hudson Valley, NY
Parts of John Krasinski’s screenwriting debut, as well as the sequel, were filmed throughout Hudson Valley.Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the film’s minimal dialogue meant viewers had to pay all the more attention to the natural visuals and scenery. The movie was mostly filmed in Pawling and New Paltz, two towns in Hudson Valley, so it should be no surprise that the film’s primary house is located in Pawling. The film’s first tragic moments even take place on Springtown Truss Bridge!
For a classic spooky atmosphere bolstered by natural beauty, Hudson Valley homes like Clove and River House deliver secluded estate vibes and unbeatable privacy.
Whether you’re West Coast or East Coast, you’ll be able to get your Halloween on this year at one of many AvantStay vacation homes nationwide.
They say don’t judge a book by its cover, but that couldn’t be less true when it comes to a vacation rental home. Your vacation rental’s interior design (and how it’s displayed in photos across listing sites) is one of the first things potential guests notice when deciding to book a stay.
Luckily, when you partner with AvantStay you get full access to our award-winning vacation rental interior design and procurement services that instantly add value to your home while increasing occupancy. Our talented interior designers build a free, custom design strategy for your home that inspires both you and our guests to feel their most comfortable—creating lasting memories while saving you thousands. Keep reading to find out why vacation rental interior design is critical to your success and how AvantStay can increase your home’s equity, drive more positive reviews, and maximize your revenue.
The benefits of investing in vacation rental interior design
Only AvantStay homeowners have access to our award-winning professional Design and Photography teams who elevate homes in under nine days, instantly increasing your home’s equity and maximizing your ROI. We help you procure high-quality, durable furniture and upscale amenities. We also take care of the professional photoshoot—for free!
Attract more guests
Our brand is defined and recognized by a consistent aesthetic across our homes. This includes new furnishings, stylish decor, and top-of-the-line amenities. Professionally designed properties attract guests who appreciate and respect the elements that make your home special. After all, that’s why they booked it!
Earn higher ratings
Homes with branded, thoughtfully designed interiors are directly linked to higher ratings and referrals from guests. An appealing and comfortable home where guests can gather and entertain has a proven positive effect on the guest experience. Homes that look their best make guests feel their best.
Increase your revenue
When AvantStay refurbishes your home, you maximize your property’s value and increase profit by up to 20-30%. You’ll notice a surge in bookings as guests prefer to stay at properties with professionally designed interiors and experiential amenities for the whole group to enjoy. An increase in revenue is the ultimate goal, right?
Save time and money
Renovating and designing a home is a pricey and time-consuming project to take on alone. When we do the heavy lifting to refurbish your property with our discounted rates, you’ll save time and money that would have been spent doing it yourself or with an independent designer.
How does AvantStay’s vacation rental interior design program work?
Our in-house Design team helps homeowners redesign and curate experiential spaces for gathering. When you partner with AvantStay, we provide general design upgrades ranging from light renovations (reflooring, repainting, switching out light fixtures, maximizing space by adding bedrooms, etc.) to completely refurbishing the home to fit within our brand standards, aesthetically and functionally.
We help you procure high-quality, durable furniture, equipment, and amenities to elevate the guest experience and drive premium daily rates. We pass along our discounted rates to you so you capture those savings, and coordinate delivery and installation on your behalf so you don’t have to lift a finger!
The turnaround period from when we start working on a home’s design (including purchasing, installation, and photography) to going live on our website takes an average of 30 to 45 days. To begin, we do a virtual scan and walkthrough of your home using Matterport. This shows our interior designers everything they need to fully design and transform a space, including detailed floor plans.
Once we have the 3D scan, we begin creating a design deck that shows recommendations in line with your budget and potential increased revenue projections. We recommend changes that will have the most impact on driving guest satisfaction, higher occupancy, and ultimately revenue performance. Once you agree to our recommendations, we procure the items with our suppliers at 20-60% discounts and coordinate the necessary delivery and installation.
“Our goal for the design transformation is to appeal to travelers looking for a quick getaway, wanting to explore a new town, and experience the local flare,” says Candace Rein, AvantStay’s Associate Creative Director of Standards and Innovation. “Our design is elevated, thoughtful, and aspirational. We want our guests to feel inspired by the space.”
Our stylists then incorporate unique elements to your home inspired by local surroundings. They add indoor and outdoor games to improve the experiential elements of the home as well as make it feel welcoming and fun.
“What differentiates us from our competitors is that while all of our homes are different, we consistently approach design with group experiences in mind,” says Candace. “We look at these single-family STRs with a hotel approach by utilizing every square foot with some kind of experiential aspect. Whether it’s a game table, a beautifully curated gallery wall, or providing extra seating by extending the dining table double the standard size, it’s about highlighting the home’s amenities and designing around that.”
Next, our in-house Photography team schedules a professional photoshoot where our stylists and photographers collaborate to ensure our detailed guidelines are met. We use high-end professional photography equipment and drone footage to showcase every aspect of your home. This illustrates the full potential of the stay to our guests while highlighting your home’s key revenue drivers.
Finally, our in-house Listings and Distribution team manages your inventory across more than 60 leading distribution platforms known as Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), specifically curated for your home. This leads to maximized views of your home, more bookings, better reviews, and higher revenue.
Design and capital improvements increase your home’s equity, maximizing your ROI. Let us do the heavy lifting and work with you to create the perfect vacation rental interior design plan for your home.
If you’re interested in learning more about AvantStay’s vacation rental management and interior design services, our team of experts is ready to help. Get started today!
The moment guests arrive at your short-term vacation rental, they should have everything they need to relax and fully enjoy their vacation. First impressions are key when welcoming guests into your home. While cleanliness, furnishings, decor, and amenities are all essential to a great first impression, a simple but impactful way to impress your guests is by providing a vacation rental welcome book.
A vacation rental guest book is a great way to ease any stress from traveling, answer questions, create a relaxing environment, and make your guests feel at home. Contactless check-ins are the new normal, so provide guests with all the information they’ll need to settle in and make the most out of their stay.
Taking the time to create a vacation rental guidebook will show guests that you care. Laying out everything guests need to know about your home, listing amenities with how-to instructions, and providing information about things to do and places to explore in the area will help create an exceptional guest experience. Happy guests lead to positive reviews, more bookings, repeat visits, and more short-term rental income for you. Keep reading to learn how you can create the ultimate vacation rental welcome book.
What to include in your vacation rental guest book:
Welcome information and personal note
Local contact information
Check-in and check-out instructions
Rental property rules and local ordinances
Amenities list
How-to instructions
Things to do
How to get around
Welcome information and personal note
Help your short-term vacation rental guests feel right at home by starting off with welcome information and a personal note. Show your guests that you care about their experience and that you’re a real person, with a personalized “hello.” Tell them about yourself and what makes your home unique. In this section, you can also include a summary of cleaning protocols, trash and recycling locations and schedules, parking information, entry instructions or access codes, how to connect to the WiFi, and your contact information.
Local contact information
Give your guests peace of mind and help them feel at ease by including at least one local contact in your welcome book. This can be yourself, a property manager, a neighbor, or a friend who is familiar with your short-term rental. Be sure to provide their phone number and email address. Also include any contacts specific for maintenance issues, along with the nearest medical clinic or hospital, fire department, and police department in case of an emergency.
Check-in and check-out instructions
You’ll likely send your guests instructions for check-in before their arrival, but also add them to your vacation rental welcome book for easy reference. This can be information like your rental’s full address, access codes, directions to your property from the nearest airport or main roads, and check-in and check-out times.
For the check-out procedure, let guests know if the time is flexible or strict, and how they should leave your home before departure. Should they turn off all the lights, place trash and recycling in bins, load and start the dishwasher, sign out of streaming devices, and return the keys to a lockbox? Create a simple checklist for your guests so check-out is as easy as possible.
Rental property rules and local ordinances
Limit any chances for confusion or misunderstanding by laying out all of the house rules and local ordinances. Use this section in your vacation rental guest book to list your short-term rental policies for pets, smoking, and parties, along with any quiet hours for your home. If your short-term rental is in a complex, subdivision, or gated community, be sure to include those rules as well. This section can influence how guests treat and leave your property so you’ll never have to worry about its condition.
Amenities list
Don’t be afraid to show off all the great amenities your short-term vacation rental has to offer. Let your guests know exactly what is available to them in your home, outdoor space, or surrounding property. While pools, hot tubs, and game rooms are usually the stars of the show, don’t forget to highlight any hidden amenities like bikes in the garage, washer and dryer, or community fire pit and grills.
How-to instructions
Leave no room for frustration and negative reviews from guests who can’t figure out how to turn on a tricky hot tub. Include detailed instructions for all amenities and appliances so guests don’t have to waste their precious vacation time. Consider including how-to instructions for:
Property access (lockbox code, garage code, gate)
Wireless internet access
Thermostat
Fireplace or outdoor fire pit
Barbecue
Swimming pool
Hot tub
Washer and dryer
Kitchen appliances
TV, remote control, and DVD player
Streaming devices like Roku
Things to do
Showcase your local expertise with a “things to do” section in your guidebook. Recommendations from a true local are a great way to make your guests feel comfortable and welcome. Create a list of your favorite spots and activities, along with popular local attractions that everyone seems to love. Include a variety of options for different groups of travelers like families, friends, or couples. Some good recommendations to include:
Restaurants with price ranges
Coffee shops
Shopping
Nightlife
Beaches, hikes, golf courses, and parks
Museums and monuments
Grocery stores
How to get around
Help your short-term rental guests navigate the area with a section about local transportation. Provide contact information, schedules, and any other helpful details for the following:
Car rentals
Taxi and shuttle services
Bus routes
Train stations
Local area maps
Impress your guests with a vacation rental welcome book
A vacation rental guest book might seem like a minor detail in the grand scheme of short-term rental management. However, this simple gesture will enhance your guests’ experience from beginning to end. A welcome book will show your guests that you care about their vacation and time at your home, and lead to positive reviews, more bookings, and ultimately more revenue.
If you’re interested in partnering with a vacation rental management company to remove the guesswork from the guest work, AvantStay is here to help. From design to maintenance to rental management, 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 for you—it’s that simple.
Have questions about AvantStay’s vacation rental management? Our team of experts is ready to help–get started today!
Temecula Valley is a popular day-trip destination for Southern California wine enthusiasts. The area’s gentle, rolling hills, lush greenery, and rich wine culture are better appreciated during a long weekend or extended getaway. There’s a lot to enjoy in this hidden Inland Empire gem, so round up your closest pals and discover the 22 best things to do in Temecula.
Award-winning, small-batch vintages from over 50 nearby wineries are waiting for you and your crew to sample them. Given SoCal’s year-round perfect weather, there’s no bad time to sip on Malbec or Petite Sirah Rose while watching hot air balloons drift overhead and dot the horizon.
Of course, you don’t need to drink to enjoy Temecula. Quaint antique shops and offbeat boutiques line the streets, waiting for you and your crew to browse inside or just pose for photos for the ‘gram outside the historic, Western-style buildings. Plus, once you’ve done enough exploring, there’s no shortage of soaking tubs in the area’s numerous spas. After a day of touring vineyards and trekking across hiking trails, a massage table or hot tub is the perfect end-of-day destination.
Munch Your Way Through A Smorgasbord of Dining Options
1. Indulge in Spanish Flavors at Bolero at Europa Village
Located on more than 45 acres of rolling hills in the Temecula Valley, Bolero at Europa Village is the first of three distinct stops within Europa Village. Complete with a boutique, a Spanish-inspired restaurant, and a beautiful wine cave and tasting room, it’s the perfect place to engulf yourself in local culture. Bolero Restaurante serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with menus to celebrate the centuries-old tradition of tapas. Shareable plates include seafood, steak, roasted vegetables, olives, European cheeses, and charcuterie.
For the perfect home base near Europa Village, consider a stay at Bordeaux by AvantStay.
2. Enjoy Casual Bites and Drinks at The Cantina at Bolero
On the more casual side, The Cantina at Bolero is a rustic bar offering tapas, house wines, private-label beer, and cocktails. Best of all are the options, totaling 13 indoor and outdoor venues within the resort’s 15,315 square feet.
After enjoying the tapas and drinks at The Cantina, unwind at Merlot by AvantStay, a comfortable retreat located just a short drive away.
3. Savor Gourmet Cuisine with a View at Altisima Winery’s Gaspar’s Restaurant
Altisima Winery‘s tasting room offers magnificent, must-see views, courtesy of its hillside site. This legacy winery is in partnership with eight local families. Wine isn’t the only thing on the menu, though. Gaspar’s Restaurant, named after Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portola, is part of the winery, featuring a gourmet menu for dining indoors and outdoors.
For a charming and comfortable retreat with easy access to Altisima Winery and its stunning vistas, consider booking Chardonnay Charm by AvantStay.
4. Dine Bistro-Style in Old Town at Small Barn
In Old Town Temecula, Small Barn restaurant serves bistro-style menu selections in The Antique Cottage’s former home on Old Town Front Street. The owners hired former Top Chef contestant Angelo Sosa as culinary director to create charcuterie, salads, and soups.
Enjoying the bistro-style delights at Small Barn in Old Town Temecula? Retreat to the nearby tranquility of De Luz!
5. Experience Authentic Italian Cuisine at Bottega Italia
Bottega Italia offers a touch of Italy without international travel. The Prestifilippo family prides itself on authentic and quality products and five-star service. Using fresh and sustainable ingredients in classic recipes, perhaps the most valued item on the menu is Chef Gimmy Piperku’s pizza.
For a welcoming and comfortable stay near the authentic Italian flavors of Bottega Italia, consider a stay at Casa del Arbol.
6. Share Delicious Plates at Oscars Brewing Company
The menu at Oscars Brewing Company (OBC) is designed for foodies who love sharing. Executive Chef Nick Tall takes pride in creating a balance of healthy and decadent menu options. OBC is a scratch kitchen and bakery that supports local farms, non-GMO produce, humane agriculture, and sustainable food sources while reducing the carbon footprint by using biodegradable and compostable materials. This eatery is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, as well as indoor and outdoor dining.
Extend your Temecula experience beyond the delicious offerings of Oscars Brewing Company with a stay at the conveniently located Grand Contento.
7. Excite Your Palate with Charcuterie at Grazing Theory
If you love quality charcuterie and nosh time with a cheese board front and center, Grazing Theory is for you. Owner Gina LaMora elevates the experience in presentations meant to wow. If you’re seeking to entertain a group, you can schedule a Wine & Cheese Pairing Charcuterie Workshop. Several wineries in Temecula offer mini charcuterie boxes and pre-ordered boards for wine tasting, including Doffo Winery, Akash Winery, Danza del Sol Winery, Peltzer Winery, Vitagliano Winery, and Batch Mead.
Order to-go delivery to picnic at a winery or wherever you’re staying, such as the AvantStay Palazzo Del Sol, where you can enjoy dinner on the upstairs veranda deck while gazing out at the home’s beautiful mountain views.
8. Taste Local Brews at Temecula Brewing Company
Temecula Brewing Company, located in Vail Headquarters, began in a garage. Today, the brand has grown, and its logo pays homage to Temecula Valley’s ranching history with the traditional cattle skull. The arrows represent the Luiseño people of the Temecula Valley region, and the wheat ends of the arrows speak to the craft of brewing, as does the hop head symbol on the skull.
Looking for a charming place to stay after enjoying the history and brews at Temecula Brewing Company? Wine Country Retreat by AvantStay offers a wonderful option in the heart of wine country.
Get Your Thrills at the Outdoor Activities in Temecula
9. Explore Temecula Wine Country by E-Bike
Temecula Wine Country E-Bike Rentals allows you to pedal at your own pace to enjoy the trails and explore the region. These state-of-the-art electric bikes are designed for a smooth and easy biking experience along paved and dirt roads. Bring a water bottle and your cell phone to place in the bike’s appointed cage storage. You’ll get your own bike lock, helmet, and maps with your rental, and you have the option to rent a picnic bag.
For a fantastic home base while you pedal your way through Temecula’s vineyards with an e-bike rental, why not book a stay at Villa Verdot?
10. Experience Local Culture at the Starlight Bazaar
Starlight Bazaar at the Vail Headquarters is held on the last Friday of every month from 6-10 p.m. This nighttime festival showcases local music, art, food, and culture.
11. Saddle Up for a Horseback Riding Adventure
Saddle up and channel your inner equestrian at one of these spots to take a horseback ride tour or attend a spectator event:
Temecula Carriage Co. is the place to reserve a horse-drawn carriage ride or a private dining carriage for dinner.
Galway Downs, a race-horse training facility, is also where you’ll want to take in a dressage show. Be sure to check out the upcoming events.
Wine Country Trails by Horseback offers riding experiences through the beautiful vineyards of the Temecula Wine Country. Take a 90-minute guided tour along with breathtaking views of the Maurice Car’rie Winery vineyards on docile and gentle horses led by seasoned tour guides.
Book your Fine Wine and Horses adventure at Vin Hesten Trail Rides to take a professional horseback riding lesson before an hour-long trail ride with a stop for wine tasting at a partner winery.
12. Try Your Luck at Pechanga Resort and Casino
Feeling lucky? The Pechanga Resort and Casino has the largest casino floor in California and features over 5,000 slot machines, 158 table games, a non-smoking poker room with 38 tables, and an ultra-modern, 700-seat bingo facility. You can also purchase tickets to concerts such as “The Go Go’s,” or grab a seat inside the Comedy Club. Treat your friends to dinner with your big win and enjoy Italian-inspired culinary plates at Paisano’s or slurp a dozen oysters at Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar. Meat eaters will want to book a reservation at The Great Oak Steakhouse before heading back to the roulette table.
Looking for a peaceful escape after a night of fun at Pechanga Resort and Casino? Grapevine is a wonderful option for your Temecula getaway.
13. Discover Local History at the Temecula Valley Museum
Step back in time at the Temecula Valley Museum and experience the rich history of Temecula Valley’s old town from its discovery to today. After stepping back in time, enjoy a comfortable and convenient stay at Cleveland Vista, located just a short drive from Old Town.
14. Tee Off at Temecula Creek Golf Club
Temecula Creek Golf Club is the place to strut your put. Awarded a Four-Star rating from Golf Digest, these three Temecula golf courses offer challenging play in a one-of-a-kind, scenic setting. For golfers seeking a relaxing and convenient stay after a round of golf, consider booking Via del Sur by AvantStay.
15. Take a Breathtaking Hot Air Balloon Ride
Be sure to rise up, up, and away in a hot air balloon ride for a mix of peace and adventure. A gentle sunrise floats above the picturesque rolling hills, and vineyards are available year-round.
California Dreamin’ offers a post-landing light European breakfast served in a private rose garden, complete with mimosas and local fare.
Magical Adventure balloon rides include a flute of premium champagne, juice, or mimosa to make a toast to the start of a glorious day. Continental breakfast is also part of the package. Nobody leaves without their commemorative flight certificate, complimentary souvenir photo taken by a professional photographer, two-for-one wine-tasting tickets, and more discounts to six local wineries.
A Grape Escape adventure begins at sunrise. You’ll be invited to help inflate your beautiful hot air balloon or simply observe others. Once in the basket and in the air, your pilot, a.k.a. “tour guide,” will point out areas of interest and take questions about the region. Once grounded, toast to a successful flight with a mimosa and light breakfast served picnic style in the gardens at Europa Village Winery, and leave with a souvenir certificate of flight.
Sip the Finest at the Best Wineries in Temecula
16. Explore the Calle Contento Wine Trail
Hit the Calle Contento Wine Trail for vino tastings “off the beaten road,” or at least located along a less busy trail off Rancho California Road. Wineries worth the turn off the road include:
The Patel family’s Akash Winery, if only for a taste of Dreamville Brosé.
Briar Rose Winery, a land of enchantment said to be the first cult winery of Temecula.
Turn into Falkner Winery for a taste sure to please your palate, especially considering that 80 percent of the wines on their tasting menu are award-winning.
Lumiere Winery is where you can taste a 2017 white merlot, a rare offering in the wine world.
Peltzer Family Cellars offers more than a winery, but its wine options are worthy of a stop alone. From Prosecco to Malvasia Bianca, Barbera, and more, the wines aren’t all you’ll find here. This property is land to a pumpkin farm, and there are train rides and live music events to enjoy. Oh, and they also have an ice skating rink open during the winter months, featuring 8,400 square feet of skating space, complimentary gliders, picnic benches, hot cocoa, snacks, local food truck eats, and a bar serving Peltzer wines, of course.
Vindemia Vineyard & Estate Winery offers varieties, including a popular “More Cowbell” label with a blend of zinfandel, cabernet, viognier, and syrah. The backdrop to this winery is its 100 olive trees, which they harvest and press for fresh, delicious olive oil, available at certain times of the year.
If you’d like to experience living by a winery, book Wilson Creek Manor for a truly immersive Temecula wine country experience, just a stone’s throw from many of these fantastic vineyards.
Shop ‘Til You Drop in Downtown Temecula
17. Shop for Handmade Bath & Body Products at Downtown Apothecary
In the Vail Headquarters historic district, its Downtown Apothecary is the place to purchase small-batch handmade bath and body products. Essential oil blends and sea sponges are among its popular products.
18. Find Unique Treasures at Big Horse Feed & Mercantile
Big Horse Feed & Mercantile began with a few horse-related items and feed for sale, but today, it offers much more than feed. You can find unique items for pets, humans, and your home, and come October, there’s a festival that’s complete with a corn maze.
19. Design Your Dream Furniture at Bucket of Nails
At Vail Headquarters, Bucket of Nails is the go-to place for custom-built furniture and home décor. Want to design your dream table? This is a good place to start!
20. Purchase Alpaca Goods at Temecula Valley Alpacas
Temecula Valley Alpacas is the perfect place to purchase hats, wraps, and more, all handmade from fabric shed by the animals you’ll greet upon entrance.
21. Explore Old Town’s Specialty Shops
Old Town specialty shops worthy of a visit include:
Farmers’ Markets are held on Saturdays in Old Town, Tuesdays in Vail Headquarters, and Wednesdays in Promenade. Shop here for local produce, artisan, and handcrafted goods.
A visit to Temecula guarantees an authentic, memorable experience, especially if you hit a few items on our list. From locally sourced cuisine and Alpaca-oriented boutiques to vineyard tours and hot air balloon rides overlooking the city, Temecula has it all. Explore Temecula firsthand at one of AvantStay’s Temecula properties.
Welcome to AvantStay! We believe you deserve so much more than an ordinary short-term vacation rental experience. But what makes AvantStay different? We’re all about what you can dream. Every travel experience should be one-of-a-kind, delightful, and stress-free. We shine with our attention to detail, commitment to customer service, hotel-quality amenities, and upgrades and experiences that help ensure every stay with us is more memorable than the last. In choosing us, you’re not just choosing another short-term rental company—you’re choosing an elevated experience.
Homes Catered To Groups
We have homes of all types, but most of our homes are best experienced with friends and family. Large We have homes of all types, but most of our homes are best experienced with friends and family. Large dining areas, state-of-the-art kitchens, and yards great for gatherings make getting together with all your loved ones a breeze. Plus, plenty of bedrooms (many with their own bathrooms) means no one’s sleeping on the couch this time.
An Elevated Experience
With luxurious upgrades and experiences available at the touch of a button, you can let your imagination run wild when it comes to trip activities. To start, our app gives you front-row access to services you would expect at a five-star hotel — in-room massages, mid-stay cleanings, and private transportation. But, when you stay with us, the sky’s the limit! From booking a private chef to prepare dinner for the family, to pre-stocking your fridge with groceries before you arrive, the AvantStay app makes it easier than ever to make your vacation dreams a reality.
Award-Winning Design
As travelers ourselves, we know how crucial the interior design of a home can be when planning the vacation of your dreams. We’ve actually built an in-house interior design team. And it’s not just any interior design team—they’ve actually won awards for it, including best design from Marriott Homes & Villas in 2021. We make sure our homes match the vibe of your trip, whether it be on the coast or in the woods, so you’re fully immersed in the magic of your vacation.
Our homes are also decked out with amenities, so you’ll never be sitting around wondering what to do next. From cornhole to board games, from billiards to the hot tub, we believe fun comes in all shapes and sizes and is best experienced with your loved ones. The amenities for each home are different (our estates collection has some truly awe-inspiring ones), but we can promise that you will never be bored.
Customer Service By Humans, For Humans
Our dedicated area managers are here to make sure your experience is delightful. We also have team members available 24/7, so even if you need something in the middle of the night, we’re there to help. That way, you aren’t at the whim of the homeowner’s availability and you won’t get a computer trying to help you in a crisis. We want every aspect of your experience to be as relaxing as possible, because that’s why you go on vacation in the first place.
Happy Homeowners
On top of the personal relationship we keep with our guests, we also take deep care and thoughtful steps to ensure our homeowners feel proud and reassured when their property is in our hands.
We pride ourselves on:
Best-in-class in-field operations
Smart-home technology to keep our homes and guests safe
Complimentary updated interior design
A proprietary software platform that manages it all and keeps homeowners informed
We care for these homes as though they were our own (some are even employee-owned), and we continue to build and grow sustainably to build value for our homeowners. If you’re interested in partnering with us, you can learn more about our Vacation Rental Management.
While most of our properties are homes designed for group travel as mentioned above, we also have cozier rentals and even boutique hotels, because sometimes you just want to get away without the crowd. Most importantly, we’re ever-growing to fit the needs of the modern-day traveler, meaning we’re adding new properties in new destinations all the time.
When traveling to the beautiful Hilton Head Island, relaxation and fun are on the menu. This lovely seaside town has something for everyone, including restaurants for every palate. While seafood is prevalent here since you’re right by the ocean, they have plenty of other options too.
We love planning ahead and researching the best restaurants before your trip, so you can get right to eating when your group is hungry. Here are some of the best restaurants in Hilton Head, South Carolina.
The Crazy Crab
The Crazy Crab is such a popular restaurant in Hilton Head that there are two locations for you to dine at: one is in Harbor Town and the other is in Jarvis Creek. Both offer the same fun casual atmosphere and delicious food.
The huge menu of options at The Crazy Crab is one thing people love about the place. You’re certain to find something for everyone in your group and end the meal full and happy. As for our favorites, their shrimp and crab boils, as well as their steamed seafood, are some of the best in the area.
Skull Creek Boathouse
Skull Creek Boathouse is an award-winning bistro in Hilton Head. It offers excellent indoor seating, but its outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset. You’ll love the shaded outdoor seating where you can sip refreshing tropical cocktails and local beer while the sun sets.
It’s no surprise that a waterfront restaurant has plenty of seafood dishes. They’re known for their ceviche, where you can choose your seafood and sauce. If you want a little change of pace, they also have steak, pasta, and more. Most notably, their shrimp and grits are some of the best around.
WiseGuys
WiseGuys is a popular steakhouse when your crew has something to celebrate or simply want an elegant dining experience. They serve classic American dishes with an elevated twist. You can’t go wrong with their veal chop or lobster tail.
For those who love a cocktail or beverage with their meal, you have to try their house cocktail, The Ultimate Wise Guy. They also have a great selection of wine, craft beer, and classic mixed drinks.
Sage Room
There are plenty of casual dining restaurants in Hilton Head, but if you’re looking to treat yourself or celebrate a special occasion, the Sage Room is the fine dining experience you need with mood lighting, white tablecloths, and an extensive wine list that will impress anyone you invite to join you.
The menu has a little bit of everything. Enjoy their salads, soups, steaks, lamb, and a restaurant favorite, their champagne-poached scallops. If you want international cuisine done with elegance that you can see, the Sage Room is the optimal choice.
Sea Shack
Sea Shack features bright blue walls and a counter where you’ll place your order. Despite being very busy, their service is fast and the food is consistently high-quality. They offer indoor seating and have large picnic tables for outdoor seating. They also accept take-out orders and, conveniently, there are quite a few great vacation rentals near Sea Shack.
The menu features everything from catfish and flounder to alligator. And while everything is tasty, they’re most famous for their lobster rolls. In addition, they always have Blackboard Specials with the catch of the day, so it’s worth keeping an eye on those.
Pomodori Italian Eatery
Sometimes, pasta is the only thing that will hit the spot. For some of the best pasta in town, head to Pomodori Italian Eatery. It has a fairly casual atmosphere and is family-friendly for travelers of all ages. They have plenty of kid-approved options for those traveling with little ones.
They have all your Italian favorites like spaghetti and meatballs, fettuccine alfredo, bruschetta, and seafood linguine. Whatever you order, save room for one of their mouthwatering desserts. The espresso brownie is a hit with everyone.
Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks
Restaurants with waterfront views in Hilton Head aren’t uncommon, but Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks is unique. It sits on the Port Royal Sound, and you’ll have a great view regardless of where you’re seated in the restaurant.
You’re getting some of the freshest seafood here since one of the two fishing fleets in town operates on their dock. You can enjoy local shrimp, shrimp po-boys, and other fresh catches at any time of the day. Their brunch service is top-rated on weekends, and all their dishes pair great with a bloody Mary or mimosa.
Santa Fe Cafe
Hilton Head doesn’t only have southern and seafood restaurants. You’ll find Santa Fe Cafe nestled near some of the best golf courses on the island. Walking inside, you’ll feel like you’ve teleported to New Mexico in this stunning space. It’s beautifully decorated with bright colors and cacti.
People love the rooftop terrace where you can enjoy a great drink with lovely views. The menu here features a broad range of dishes, from grill to seafood and Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, fajitas, and more. They also serve an ample selection of beverages catering to different tastes.
A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant
You can’t visit Hilton Head without stopping at A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant. This charming American restaurant features a quaint little garden with outdoor seating when the weather’s nice. It’s heated in the winter and has a casual atmosphere.
The menu here features classic American dishes and, of course, southern cuisine. You’ll love trying their fried green tomatoes and burgers and finishing your meal with the best banana pudding in town. Don’t forget to try the local moonshine if you’re over 21!
Skillets Cafe & Grill
They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and there’s no better breakfast on Hilton Head Island than Skillets Cafe and Grill. Even if breakfast isn’t your favorite, they’re open for lunch and dinner too.
You’ll be able to feast on French toast, a variety of omelets, and other breakfast favorites until three pm every day. If you’re popping in for lunch or dinner, their fried seafood, crab cakes, pimento cheese dip, and other mouthwatering southern items will satisfy you.
Salty Dog Cafe
Salty Dog Cafe is an excellent choice for those looking for a great waterfront restaurant but a casual vibe. They’re known for their classic beach and nautical decor, amazing atmosphere, and delicious food.
This seafood restaurant offers excellent views while you dine on some of the tastiest foods Hilton Head offers. The Salty Dog Cafe is the perfect way to experience authentic southern cuisine. You can’t miss trying their gator bites, crab cakes, pimento cheese dip, and local spirits from the Hilton Head Distillery.
Old Oyster Factory Restaurant
The Old Oyster Factory Restaurant is the epitome of a waterfront fine dining experience. For more than 30 years, it’s been a favorite for locals and tourists who want a nice meal on the water. If you’re craving oysters, you’ll have plenty to choose from here.
This restaurant is known for fresh seafood and its charcuterie board. It’s a great dining experience for people of all ages with a menu that has something everyone will enjoy. Even if you’re not in the mood for seafood, they have salads, steak, and chicken entrees.
Bullies BBQ
You can’t miss trying Bullies BBQ when all you want is traditional southern barbeque. This old-school joint isn’t one you’ll get all dressed up for, but after a long day on the beach or golfing, it hits the spot.
Bullies BBQ has everything you could want in a barbecue joint. There’s a variety of smoked and grilled meats and excellent side dishes, and you get to choose which sauce you want on your meat. The Carolina vinegar BBQ sauce is a must-try!
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.
Ready to create a five-star guest experience and increase the return on your vacation rental investment? A great starting point is by adding experiential elements and sought-after amenities to your home. Vacation rental amenities help create an exceptional guest experience, drive more positive reviews, and ultimately increase your rental income. This article is the first of a series breaking down popular amenities and the advantages they create, by market type. Keep reading to discover our top amenity picks for desert vacation rentals.
The importance of vacation rental amenities
In competitive markets, like Joshua Tree and Coachella Valley, the vacation rentals that are going to get more bookings and drive strong returns are the one-of-a-kind and exciting homes that stand out from the rest. If you have unique amenities, like a yoga deck or bocce ball court, showcase these in some of the first photos on your listing page to grab guests’ attention. Before we reveal what the top desert vacation rental amenities are, let’s cover the benefits of investing in interior design and luxury amenities.
Attract more guests
58% of millennials make their booking decision based on the first five photos of the home. Professionally designed properties with new furnishings, stylish decor, and top-of-the-line amenities attract guests who appreciate and respect the elements that make your home unique.
Earn higher ratings
Homes with thoughtfully designed interiors and amenities are directly linked to higher ratings and referrals from guests. An appealing and comfortable home where guests can gather and entertain has a proven positive effect on the guest experience.
Increase your revenue
Helping homeowners choose and install the right amenities is just one part of how AvantStay maximizes your property’s value and increases your profit by up to 20-30%. You’ll notice a surge in bookings as guests prefer to stay at properties with professionally designed interiors and experiential amenities for the whole group to enjoy.
Best vacation rental amenities for desert homes
Vacation rental amenities can make the difference between a four and five-star review. But which amenities are guests looking for? We dove into our data to discover what amenities drive the greatest returns in our desert vacation rentals.
Pools & spas
Allow guests to soak up the sun or comfortably stargaze on chilly desert nights with a pool and hot tub. Adding a pool and hot tub to your property is the #1 investment you can make. While cowboy tubs are great for Instagram pics, new build pool and spa assets drive greater returns for our Joshua Tree homeowners. Below are our findings for Joshua Tree homes over a 12-month period:
New build pool and spa assets generate 30% higher RevPAU (revenue per available unit) compared to standard pool and spa assets and cowboy tubs
Homes with both a pool and spa see 112% higher ADRs and 179% higher RevPAU than homes with neither
Homes with both a pool and spa see 12% higher ADRs and 17% higher RevPAU than homes with just a pool
Outdoor sport courts
Guests will love to engage in some friendly competition with an outdoor sport court. Bocce ball, horseshoes, shuffleboard, cornhole, and pickleball courts are great options for desert vacation rentals. According to our research, Joshua Tree vacation rentals with an outdoor sport court drive 14% higher ADRs and 15% greater RevPAU than homes without.
Fire pits, yoga decks, and outdoor sculptures
Commit to the zen but funky vibe of Joshua Tree with outdoor elements like a fire pit, yoga deck, and “Instagrammable” sculptures. These amenities are typically a low-lift to install and offer a minor impact on ADRs. However, according to market research, homes with some of these experiential elements (in addition to a pool and spa), see higher RevPAU than homes with more bedrooms and only a pool and spa.
Indoor game room
Joshua Tree homes in our portfolio with an indoor game room only see 12% higher RevPAU than homes without. Guests visiting desert markets are usually looking to spend time outside. If you’re thinking about adding a game room to your short-term rental, consider investing in a pool and hot tub, or one of the other outdoor amenities listed above instead.
Level up your vacation rental with AvantStay
Only AvantStay homeowners have access to our award-winning Interior Design team that elevates homes in under nine days, instantly increasing your home’s equity and maximizing your ROI. We believe the best accommodations are designed to enhance every aspect of a guest’s travels, which is why we transform beautiful homes into incredible experiences that foster unforgettable memories.
We help procure high-quality, durable furniture and upscale amenities, and coordinate delivery and installation on your behalf so you don’t have to lift a finger. Our thoughtfully designed spaces encourage gathering and allow guests to make the most of their time at your home—leaving them recharged and ready to write a five-star review!
Are you looking to upgrade your vacation rental design and amenities? Our interior designers can create a custom, locally inspired space that guests will love. If you’re interested in learning more about AvantStay’s design, procurement, and vacation rental management services, our team of experts is ready to help. Get started today!
1. Sonoma, California – Sonoma County is a renowned wine region in California, known for its vineyards, wineries, and picturesque landscapes. In July, you can enjoy the Sonoma County Fair, featuring carnival rides, live music, agricultural exhibits, and delicious food. Don’t forget to sample some of the region’s exceptional wines while you’re there.
July is the perfect month for summer group getaways, and there are plenty of fantastic destinations to consider all across the USA. From beachside paradises to cultural hotspots, we’re rounded up ten amazing places to visit in July—plus events & festivals to enjoy and the top vacation rental accommodations for your stay. Let’s dive in!
2. San Diego, California – San Diego is a vibrant coastal city with beautiful beaches, lively neighborhoods, and a wealth of attractions. The San Diego County Fair is held in July, which features concerts, rides, and delicious fair food. The Big Bay Boom fireworks show on the 4th of July is another highlight, with fireworks launched from multiple locations around the bay.
3. Berkshires, Massachusetts – The Berkshires is a picturesque region in western Massachusetts known for its natural beauty, cultural institutions, and charming towns. In July, you can experience the Tanglewood Music Festival, a renowned summer concert series held in Lenox. Enjoy live performances by the Boston Symphony Orchestra and other acclaimed musicians in an outdoor setting.
4. Isle of Palms, South Carolina – The Isle of Palms is a stunning barrier island near Charleston, South Carolina. With pristine beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s an ideal place to unwind. In July, you can attend the Isle of Palms Beach Run, an annual 5K and 10K race. Additionally, you can celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display on the beach.
5. Temecula, California – Temecula is a charming city located in Southern California’s wine country. It’s known for its vineyards, wine tasting rooms, and beautiful landscapes. If visiting in July, you cannot miss the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival, featuring hot air balloon rides, wine tastings, live music, and food vendors.
Newport Beach is a picturesque coastal city in Southern California known for its stunning harbor, beautiful beaches, and upscale shopping. If you’re visiting during the holiday, the Newport Beach Independence Day on the Bay event is one you should attend. Experience live music, food trucks, and a dazzling fireworks display over the water.
7. Key West, Florida – Key West is an idyllic island city in the Florida Keys, known for its vibrant nightlife, historic sites, and colorful atmosphere. July is a wonderful time to visit because of the famous Key Lime Festival, a celebration of the tangy key lime pie that the island is known for. Enjoy pie-eating contests, cooking demonstrations, and live music during this lively event.
8. 30A, Florida – 30A is a scenic coastal highway in Florida that stretches along the Gulf of Mexico, passing through charming beach communities. If visiting in July, you’ll want to attend the South Walton Fourth of July Parade, which features creative floats, live music, and family-friendly activities. The celebration culminates with a fireworks show at Alys Beach.
No matter where you choose to go in July, these destinations offer a wonderful combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and exciting events. Make sure to check the specific dates and details of the festivals or events mentioned to plan your trip accordingly.
Few things are more rejuvenating than a deep breath of pristine mountain air. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of fresh air, majestic mountains, or placid lake views in Big Bear Lake, which is nestled just 93 miles east of Los Angeles. There’s also no shortage of things to do in Big Bear Lake – no matter the time of year.
You and your group will have endless opportunities to explore the frontier – whether it’s on foot, mountain bike, kayak, or skis. Although Big Bear Lake is best known for its skiing, this outdoorsy oasis, tucked away in San Bernardino National Forest, holds year-round appeal with its extensive hiking and mountain biking trails, water sports, and golf. Fishing is another popular pastime here, but if you’re not the gotta-catch-your-dinner type – no worries. You’ll find comfort food in rustic lodges, casual bars and grills, barbecue joints, and cantinas. Or you can simply relax in the comfort of your cabin and let a private chef come to you. There’s no need to miss a minute enjoying beers with your crew by a fire pit in your private home.
This serene mountain lake getaway is worth the escape from LA – or from anywhere else. Here’s why:
Say hello to stunning views at our Big Bear homes
Things to do in Big Bear during the winter
1.Big Bear Mountain Resort is considered by many to be the best ski resort in Southern California. Lessons and rentals are always available for your skiing pleasure. Grizzly Ridge Tube Park is part of this resort and caters to all ages who want to ride the magic snow carpet in a high-speed tube. In addition to snow tubing, skiers and snowboarders will want to go to Snow Summit – one of two mountains at this resort with over 240 acres of skiable terrain. Within this terrain are 27 trails and over 18 skiable miles for people at any skill level. No snow? No worries. They’ve got a state-of-the-art snowmaking system.
2. Bobsledding doesn’t get any better than Alpine Slide on Magic Mountain. Give yourself a moment to take in the beautiful scenery from the chair lift ride at the top of the mountain, and then take control of your slide. You can adjust your speed and maneuver your twists down the quarter-mile track. Once you’ve mastered the Alpine Slide, you’ll want to try the Mineshaft Coaster – the only mountain coaster in California that allows you to control the speed through hairpin turns and dips, tunnels, and bridges along this mile-long track.
3. Catch the thrill of Night Glow tubing at Big Bear Snow Play featuring the longest inner tube ride in Southern California. It’s open Friday, Saturday, and holiday evenings from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. During spring break, the schedule changes, and is open every evening.
4. At Big Bear City Airport Terminal, year-round tours are available with Helicopter Big Bear to take you to new heights and offer a unique perspective of the mountain. Up to three passengers can lift off in one aircraft (two passengers minimum). You’ll want to bring your camera with you to prove you did this before you scratch this activity off your bucket list. All ages are welcome!
Source: Big Bear Cabins
Things to do in Big Bear during the Summer
5. Magic Mountain’s double waterslide is the perfect place to take the entire family to cool off in the summer. There’s also a Soaring Eagle ride to help you take in the spectacular mountain lake views. Let the fun continue with more rides, or take this opportunity to do some go-karting.
6. Big Bear Alpine Zoo is a rehabilitation facility for injured, orphaned, and imprinted wild animals. These animals are offered a temporary or permanent safe haven, depending on their needs and ability to survive independently. The facility first opened in 1959, following a wildfire that left wild animals in need of evacuation to a safe shelter. In 1961, a bear was a victim of another wildfire in the area – this bear became the new facility’s first resident. Since then, American Badgers, Arctic Foxes, a Bald Eagle, and Fallow Deer have joined the various black and grizzly bears, bobcats, Canadian geese, and more wild orphans. Summer and winter schedules vary, so be sure to check online before you go.
Source: The Nay Foundation
7. Horseback riding is another option during your Big Bear Lake getaway. Seven miles east of Big Bear Village in Big Bear City is Baldwin Lake Stables and Petting Zoo, where you can sign up for a sunset ride or hourly rides. If you prefer a private lift, you can schedule one and tailor the trail ride to your desire.
8. Big Bear Marina offers tons of water sporting fun. Sign up for a water school class with skiing options, wakeboarding, wakeskating, or tubing. Boating is fun on the lake and rentals are available, including pontoon boats, fishing boats, wave runners, kayaks, and paddleboards. The choice is yours!
9. Roll with the lake and enjoy a Paddlewheel Tour Boat ride on Miss Liberty. Pine Knot Marina offers a fully-narrated 90-minute guided tour with a discussion on Big Bear’s history. If a boat tour isn’t your thing, there are jet skis available to rent, or you can check out the kayak and boat rentals to enjoy some lake time on your own time. You can also rent fishing gear!
10. Take a lake cruise on a Big Bear Pirate Ship. Considered a must-visit attraction, these daily tours feature live entertainment – complete with authentic pirates. Each captain offers their version of entertainment, so if you want to return a few times, you’re always in for something new.
11. Boulder Bay Park is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking on a beautiful summer day. Water levels will determine whether or not you can launch a kayak from the shore, but if you can, you’ll want to head to one of the boulder islands to walk around and enjoy the scenery. There are picnic tables available, so be sure to box your favorite lunch items so you can dine and watch the sunlight sparkle on the lake. Walking paths are everywhere at the park and beckon you to take a stroll to the floating dock where you can walk to the end and meditate among the surrounding beauty. Fishing is also an option at the port, so why not cast a line.
Source: City of Big Bear Lake
12. The Big Bear Jeep Experience is an off-road adventure you’ll be sure to remember. Tours vary from sightseeing to advanced, off-road, and rock-crawling adventures.
13. If you need to rent a kayak, standup paddleboard, or bicycle, GetBoards Ride Shop is the place to go. If you’re settled in at your vacation spot already, they’ll deliver to you anywhere in Big Bear Lake.
14. Plan ahead before hitting the trailhead for a hike by getting maps and information on the local ranger’s trail conditions. It’s best to be safe to enjoy some of the best hiking trails for experiences best suited to your comfort level. A handful of trails you’ll want to explore include Barton Flats Area Non-Wilderness, San Gorgonio Wilderness, Lake Arrowhead Area Hiking, and Big Bear Valley Trails. Castle Rock Trail, in particular, has an elevation gain of 500 feet, and it’s worth the sweat equity for the lake views at the top.
15. Action Tours California offers three-hour zipline adventures for a fly through the forest. You won’t believe the views as you glide over Johnson Valley and the highest peak in Southern California, Mt. San Gorgonio. Muster up the courage to trek across a teetering suspension bridge after your first zipline. If ziplining isn’t for you, take it down a notch and sign up for a Segway or snowshoe tour.
Source: R&R Big Bear
Events
16. The 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular is an annual event to celebrate Independence Day. The fireworks display is highly rated and can be viewed within 22 miles of the shoreline and the highest peaks overlooking Big Bear Lake. At Meadow Park, a 4th of July Fun Run event for the entire family offers a choice of three-course distances: 5K, 10K, or 15K. Prizes are awarded for the fastest runner – and best costume! Proceeds support the Bear Valley Search and Rescue.
17. Memorial Day Weekend Grill & Chill BBQ Festival is held throughout Memorial Day weekend at the Bartlett Events Area in The Village on Big Bear Blvd. The KC BBQ State Championship features over 30 cooks in competition for a $10,000 prize and the title of People’s Choice. Best of all, anyone attending can enjoy the samples from the BBQ competition while hanging out in the Chill Garden with an excellent brew or mixed cocktail. Bring plenty of cash because there are vendors on-hand in the Artisan Marketplace. Shop to the sounds of live music, and be sure to send the kids to the Kids Zone so they can expend some energy and get their chill on once they join you again.
18. Fishin’ For $50K Trout Derby is an event for both residents and visitors alike that’s held each September. Head to Big Bear Lake for a chance to win big! Try to tag one of five trout (previously released), each worth $10,000, or any 25 non-grand prize-tagged trout worth $200 each. Awards are distributed for men, women, boys, and girls who enter the Derby.
19. The Chili Cook-Off is an annual event held in July that’s meant to add a little spice to your vacation. More than 40 cooks from all over the southwest compete in the Top Chef title for a prize. Your duty is to taste, relax, groove to the music, and peruse the vendor’s tables for some unique purchases.
20. Attend the Tour de Big Bear at the “Cycling Capital of Southern California” road riding event. Choose your course from options that include 10K, 25K, 50K, 70K, 106K, and 109K mile courses meant to provide something for everyone who wants to participate. This four-day sell-out event includes a Poker Ride and a nighttime Glow Ride for family and friends before the Tour de Big Bear weekend.
Source: Big Bear Cycling Association
21. Be thankful there’s a Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, walk, or jog. Open Air Big Bear presents this annual event. Starting at Meadow Park on Thanksgiving morning, you can earn your turkey dinner by burning off calories by taking part in a 3, 6, or 9-mile race. Kids in strollers are welcome, and everyone is encouraged to have fun and dress up in their best turkey, bear, or fall costume for prizes. Three-mile runners are even treated to a yoga warmup routine with Colin Schour before the race.
22. The MTB Gran Fondo & Grizzly 100 is for all levels of mountain bike riders. Take the 20K Skyview up the Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair or take the 50K Skyline course. Need more of a challenge? Take the Grizzly 100 and get your adrenaline pumping.
23. Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest at the Convention Center at Big Bear Lake is a quintessential autumn event that attracts thousands of visitors annually. Authentic German food, imported brews, Bavarian bands, traditional dances, and competitions are held during Oktoberfest, including the Queen Stein Carrying Contest.
Source: Hello Jetlag
24. Every summer, Big Bear Discovery Center hosts Music in the Mountains. This live, outdoor concert series benefits its education and conservation programs. The music is a mix of rock, bluegrass, blues, Western, and Celtic and is held in the theater under the stars.
25. More than 500 vintage autos, dragsters, and custom coupes congregate up the mountain for a two-day Antique Car Club Fun Run at Big Bear Village in August. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Best spots to eat in Big Bear
26. Nottinghams Restaurant-Tavern is the place to dine for some classic California cuisine. Order the steak in King Richard’s Room, where a tableside fireplace will warm you up, or outside in Camelot’s Courtyard where you can bring your fur baby, no problem. You’ll want to head upstairs to Friar Tuck’s Tavern for happy hour, some live music, entertainment, and dancing.
27. Barbeque chicken flatbread is one delicacy offered at Big Bear Lake Brewing Company. Order a salt pretzel, fish tacos, a widow-maker burger, or a Kielbasa sandwich, and wash it down with homebrew made on-site.
28. Take dining to the next level and order a chef to cook for you! Simply make a call to Personal Chef Allen. All you need is a kitchen inside your vacation rental, such as the Gambler rental, available through AvantStay. In the mood for fish, Italian, or a vegan dinner? No problem! Whatever you want, it’s on the menu.
29. Spice things up at the Himalayan Restaurant, the ideal place for lunch or dinner plates full of lamb vindaloo, butter chicken, tofu saag, and more Nepal and Indian dishes.
Source: Visit California
30. North Pole Fudge and Ice Cream Company on Pine Knot Avenue is a dream come true for sweet tooths seeking a sugary ending to a day spent skiing, hiking, or biking. You’ve burned the calories, so go for it!
31. Sonora Cantina is known for having mouth-watering Mexican food, especially the shared parrilladas. More menu items include taquitos, carne asada, arroz con pollo, and tequila lime poppers.
32. Comfort food is unmatched at Teddy Bear Restaurant. Order the homemade chicken or turkey pot pies, or stop by for breakfast specials, and be sure to add a side of cinnamon cornbread.
34. A stop in Stupidiotic will keep you giggling as you browse through a gallery of quirky items such as a squirrel picnic table, face meme stickers for face masks, shower beer holders, and shower memo pads.
35. Bearly Used Books in the Village Faire Upstairs Mall sells books of all genres and for all ages.
Source: Bearly Used Books
36. O Koo Ran on the corner of Village Drive and Bartlett Road is full of unique finds, including accessories, bath and body products, housewares, souvenir gifts, and every type of casual comfort wear you can imagine for women and babies.
37. Interlaken Shopping Center has just about everything you need, right down to a laundromat. There are two Starbucks here and a post office, a DIY center, and an Italian restaurant – Maggio’s.
38. Big Bear Superstore will make t-shirts on request. It’s also where you can purchase some souvenirs to remind you of this mountain lake wonderland and share them with those who couldn’t join you for this getaway. You can also buy seasonal clothing here in case you forgot to pack your warmest socks.
Unwind
39. All that mountain activity is sure to cause some muscle soreness. Treat your tired body at Altitudes Massage. The Spa Day Hooray package has it all: a 1.5-hour treatment time with 60 minutes dedicated entirely to your specified needs, aromatherapy, hot stones, head, and foot massage, and a choice of mini-facial, foot treatment, or back facial. After the massage, enjoy a selection of tea or champagne, included with the package.
40. Get some “me” time at Elevations Day Spa. Waxing, makeup, hair, nails, body wraps, skincare, and massages are all available with an appointment in advance. Specialty treatments include an hour of foot massage, beginning with a Chinese herbal scrub. From there, the hour continues with a hydrating treatment and half an hour of reflexology.
Source: MapQuest
41. Spatique by Margo is an excellent stop for some CranioSacral therapy, which is a gentle approach (barely a touch) to release tensions deep in the body. It’s known to relieve pain and dysfunction and allows the body to self-correct. Swedish massages, lymphatic drainage, Lomi Lomi, myofascial release, deep tissue massage, pregnancy/prenatal massage, reflexology, and chemical peels are also offered here.
42. Mountain Mobile Massage & Spa brings the massage to you no matter where you are on Big Bear Lake, be it a rental home, hotel, or party location. Or you can schedule a visit to the on-site location. It’s up to you, but know there’s an upcharge for off-site massages that include deep tissue and trigger point therapy, the basic Swedish massage, or a sports massage, reflexology, or Shiatsu bodywork.
Explore Fawnskin
43. The small township of Fawnskin was once an artists’ colony full of artisans, musicians, composers, and actors from the Los Angeles area who craved an escape. The town got its name as an urban legend, referencing hunters who once discovered deer (fawn) skins stretched out to dry in the sun. This tiny North Shore village was once a passthrough for stagecoaches during the 19th century. Today, it’s a prime place for getaways to unwind from city life. Within Fawnskin is Holcomb Valley, where gold miners, loggers, and hunters thrived during the 19th century.
Whether you’re looking to relax, drink, eat, shop, or adventure until you can’t adventure anymore, Big Bear is the place for you! Explore this exciting man-made landmark for all its glory during any season of the year. Book one of AvantStay’s Big Bear properties to experience this magical, mountainous paradise yourself.
If you’re seeking things to do on Sullivan’s Island, explore this guide for inspiration as you plan your next getaway.
Sullivan’s Island is a 2.5-mile long island located near the entrance of the Charleston Harbor and near Isle of Palms and just minutes from Charleston, South Carolina.
This barrier island is a favorite destination for East Coast beach lovers. You’ll find that this small town is filled with a plethora of historic sites, civil war history, sightseeing attractions, and outdoor activities to enjoy.
Check out our list of the best things to do in Sullivan’s Island to add to your itinerary for the perfect getaway.
Soak Up Sunshine Along the South Carolina Coast
Explore the beaches of The Barrier Islands just past the city limits of Charleston, South Carolina for a relaxing getaway filled with all these great beaches have to offer. You’ll find some of the most famous beaches like Sullivan’s Island, Folly, and Isle of Palms. You can’t go wrong with one of these beautiful beaches for your getaway.
Sullivan’s Island Beach
Wake up early and take a morning beach stroll to experience the spectacular sunrise on Sullivan’s Island beach. This beach is only about 20 minutes from downtown Charleston offering smooth white sand, calm waters perfect for plenty of fun activities and watersports including kayaking, charter fishing, kiteboarding, paddleboarding and more.
Arrive early before the beach begins to get busy in the summer months as there’s limited parking available. Or, book a Sullivan’s Island vacation home to enjoy the beach within easy access of your home-away-from-home.
Isle of Palms Beach
Located Northeast of Sullivan’s Island, this charming small beach community offers many water sports like surfing, kayaking, and fishing charters. Isle of Palms beach is perfect for families offering convenient amenities to guests like umbrellas, showers, and lifeguards. Stay just a block away from the beach at the Pelican vacation rental perfect for your next beach getaway.
Folly Beach
Folly Beach is a popular beach spot for locals looking for a daytrip from Charleston. Come early to beat traffic and find a parking spot. Enjoy the day stretched out on the sand, surfing or take a sunrise stroll along the beach. Stay just minutes from the Folly Park at Live Oak or explore more vacation rentals in Sullivan’s Island to create the perfect getaway.
Explore Sullivan’s Island by Bike
Sullivan’s Island has a 32 mile bike path connecting all three beaches to downtown Charleston making it an excellent way to explore. The path connects Isle of Palms with Folly Beach and goes through Sullivan’s Island, Old Mount Pleasant, and over the Ravenel Bridge. You can take an adventure over the Ravenel Bridge to Sullivan’s Island while staying in the biking lane. Summer in South Carolina can be quite hot. The best time to take this 2 hour bike trip will be during the fall, winter, or spring months.
Source: Canva
Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse
Standing at 140 feet, Sulivan’s Island Lighthouse is one of the last lighthouses to be built in the United States. While this black and white lighthouse is closed to the public, it is still fully operational and a great place to take a photo with friends or family on your vacation.
Source: Canva
Sullivan’s Island Restaurants
Gather your friends and family and enjoy a fresh local meal while dining al fresco at one of Sullivan’s Island’s outdoor restaurants. Our favorites are Poe’s Tavern, named after Edgar Allen Poe, Home Team BBQ and The Obstinate Daughter. These restaurants are popular among foodies, so prepare for longer wait times or be sure to call ahead to reserve a table.
Source: Canva
Enjoy the Best of Sullivan’s Island
Ready to experience all of the history, fun, and beauty Sullivan’s Island has to offer? Create your list of fun things to do and see on Sullivan’s Island to prepare for your next getaway.
If you’re looking for other recommendations in the area, be sure to check out our other resources:
Welcome to Whidbey Island, a captivating destination nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. This idyllic island, located in Washington State, is a haven for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful escape. With its pristine beaches, lush forests, and charming coastal towns, Whidbey Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From the iconic Deception Pass State Park to the quaint streets of Coupeville Historic Waterfront, this island is brimming with opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and exploration. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the enchantment of Whidbey Island, where breathtaking vistas and unforgettable experiences await at every turn.
And when it comes to accommodations, don’t forget that AvantStay vacation homes provide the perfect retreat for an exceptional stay on the island, especially when traveling with groups.
1. Explore Deception Pass State Park
Prepare to be awestruck by the beauty of Deception Pass State Park. Lace up your hiking boots and venture along the park’s trails, leading you through lush forests and offering breathtaking views of the swirling waters below. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife encounters and don’t forget to capture some Insta-worthy photos.
Source: Washington is For Adventure
2. Visit Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve
Immerse yourself in history as you step foot in Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve. Wander through time as you stroll past historic farmhouses and gaze upon sweeping vistas that haven’t changed much since settlers arrived. The reserve’s walking and biking trails are a delightful way to soak up the scenic beauty of this preserved treasure.
3. Go whale watching
Calling all nature enthusiasts! Embark on a whale watching adventure and witness the grace and grandeur of these majestic creatures. Local tour operators provide fantastic opportunities to spot whales, so be prepared for an awe-inspiring experience. Keep your camera ready, as you never know when a tail flip or a breach will leave you speechless.
Source: Whidbey News-Times
4. Enjoy water sports at Penn Cove
For those seeking a splash of adventure, Penn Cove is your playground. Grab a kayak or a paddleboard and glide across the tranquil waters, taking in the picturesque surroundings. If you’re up for a tasty challenge, try your hand at mussel and clam digging – a fun and rewarding experience for seafood lovers.
5. Tour Fort Casey State Park
History buffs, unite! Fort Casey State Park offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved fort and impressive artillery. Explore the fort’s passages, climb up to the lookout points, and feel like a time traveler as you imagine life as a soldier stationed here. Pack a picnic and savor a meal with panoramic views as your backdrop.
Source: Alan Majchrowicz Photography
6. Visit Coupeville Historic Waterfront
Step into a storybook as you wander through the charming streets of Coupeville Historic Waterfront. Browse through unique shops, admire local art galleries, and indulge in delicious fare at the waterfront restaurants. The rich history and undeniable charm of this quaint town will leave you spellbound.
7. Attend the Whidbey Island Center for the Arts
Let your cultural senses thrive at the Whidbey Island Center for the Arts. Catch a captivating theater performance, sway to the rhythm of live concerts, or lose yourself in the beauty of art exhibits. This vibrant hub showcases the immense talent and creativity that thrives on the island.
Source: Coupeville Chamber of Commerce
8. Explore the Greenbank Farm
Escape to a world of artistic inspiration and natural beauty at the Greenbank Farm. Meander through art galleries, discover unique shops, and recharge with a cup of coffee or a tasty treat at one of the charming cafes. The open spaces invite you to spread out a picnic blanket and revel in the tranquility of this idyllic setting.
9. Taste Local Brews at Penn Cove Brewing Company
Indulge in the craft beer scene on Whidbey Island by visiting Penn Cove Brewing Company. Located in Coupeville, this local brewery offers a range of delicious and unique brews crafted with care. Sample their selection of handcrafted beers, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, and enjoy the inviting atmosphere of their taproom. Engage with the friendly staff and fellow beer enthusiasts while savoring the flavors of Whidbey Island in a pint glass.
Source: Whidbey News-Times
10. Sample fresh seafood
Whidbey Island is a haven for seafood lovers, and you don’t want to miss the chance to delight your taste buds. From succulent Dungeness crab to buttery scallops, the island’s restaurants serve up a variety of mouthwatering dishes that showcase the bounty of the sea. So, dive in and treat yourself to a culinary adventure.
11. Discover the Bayview Farmers Market
Support local artisans, farmers, and craftsmen at the Bayview Farmers Market. Stroll through the bustling market and peruse the vibrant displays of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal products. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, live music, and perhaps even find the perfect souvenir to take home.
Source: South Whidbey Record
12. Explore Langley Village
Prepare for a shopping spree in the charming village of Langley. This idyllic town is a treasure trove of boutique stores, antique shops, and unique finds. Whether you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry or a vintage collectible, Langley will captivate you with its eclectic offerings.
13. Unwind at Double Bluff Beach
Feel the sand between your toes and the gentle breeze in your hair at Double Bluff Beach. This serene beach is a paradise for relaxation and rejuvenation. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, explore the tidal pools, or simply bask in the tranquility of the stunning coastal scenery.
Source: Must Hike Must Eat
14. Indulge in a spa day
Pamper yourself with a day of blissful relaxation at one of Whidbey Island’s wellness centers. Treat your body and mind to a massage, rejuvenating facial, or holistic treatment. Let the stress melt away as skilled professionals work their magic, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
15. Visit the Pacific Northwest Art School
Unlock your inner artist at the Pacific Northwest Art School. Take part in art classes taught by talented instructors, or marvel at the inspiring exhibitions that grace the gallery walls. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner with a passion for creativity, this artistic sanctuary will ignite your imagination.
Source: Pacific Northwest Art School
16. Discover the Island County Historical Museum
Delve into the captivating history and culture of Whidbey Island at the Island County Historical Museum. Engage with exhibits that showcase the island’s fascinating past, from its Native American heritage to its naval history. Gain a deeper understanding of the island’s roots and the people who have shaped its identity.
17. Play golf at one of the island’s golf courses
Calling all golf enthusiasts! Whidbey Island offers a golfer’s paradise with its scenic and well-maintained golf courses. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, these courses provide an opportunity to perfect your swing while immersing yourself in the island’s natural splendor.
Useless Bay Golf & Country Club is located in Langley and offers an exceptional golfing experience. This 18-hole course boasts stunning views of the Puget Sound, lush fairways, and challenging greens. Tee off surrounded by majestic evergreens, navigate strategically placed hazards, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this picturesque course.
Additionally, Whidbey Golf Club in Oak Harbor is another gem for golf enthusiasts. This scenic 18-hole course combines challenging holes with breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound. With its well-manicured fairways, pristine greens, and friendly atmosphere, Whidbey Golf Club is a delightful destination for golfers of all levels.
So, grab your clubs, embrace the natural beauty of Whidbey Island, and enjoy a memorable round of golf on these stunning courses. Whether you’re seeking a friendly game or a competitive challenge, these golfing destinations will provide an unforgettable experience in a serene setting.
Source: Useless Bay Golf & Country Club
18. Go birdwatching
Calling all bird lovers! Whidbey Island is a haven for avian enthusiasts, with its diverse habitats attracting a wide variety of bird species. Whidbey Island has two fantastic locations that should be on your radar.
Start your birdwatching adventure at Crockett Lake Preserve, near Coupeville. This expansive 357-acre preserve boasts a diverse range of habitats, including marshes, wetlands, and forests, attracting a wide variety of bird species. As you explore the trails and boardwalks, keep your eyes peeled for magnificent bald eagles, vibrant waterfowl, and migratory shorebirds.
Another excellent spot is Ebey’s Landing, renowned for its historical significance but also offering great birdwatching opportunities. The combination of farmlands, open prairies, and coastal areas creates an ideal habitat for various bird species. Take a leisurely stroll along the bluff trail and you might catch a glimpse of peregrine falcons, graceful great blue herons, or fascinating shorebirds. Don’t forget your binoculars as you immerse yourself in the beauty of Whidbey Island’s avian residents.
Whidbey Island truly offers a paradise of experiences for every type of traveler. From breathtaking natural landscapes to intriguing historical sites, there’s something for everyone on this enchanting island.
And when it comes to accommodations, AvantStay vacation homes provide the perfect base for your adventures, especially when traveling with groups. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to create unforgettable memories on Whidbey Island. The adventure awaits!
