You know the saying — home is wherever you’re on vacation.
Wait, are you sure that’s not it? We are pretty sure that when you go away for a much-needed vacation, the hotel or rental can make or break the trip, and so that’s why many, ourselves included, love a rental home instead of a traditional hotel.
Vrbo also knows this all too well, and has been curating the perfect rental homes all over the world. To honor the best of the best, the vacation rental site has announced the 2023 Vacation Homes of the Year. Spanning the United States and Mexico, the picks are perfect for all types of travelers, from the hikers and skiers to the beach bums and family friendly fun-havers.
“There are more than two million private vacations rentals on Vrbo, so there are many amazing choices. This year’s Vacation Homes of the Year range from an urban oasis and a cozy ranch home under $400 a night to a beachfront estate that can sleep the whole family and more,” said Jon Gieselman, president of Expedia Brands. “Every single Vacation Home of the Year has a beautiful view, and combined boast seven private pools and fire pits, eight hot tubs and even five putting greens.”
The properties are located in California, Arizona, North Carolina, Oregon, New York, Texas, Florida, South Carolina, Idaho, Colorado and Mexico, each outlined more in-depth below. While these may not be for your typical two-person weekend trip, the homes are truly stunning and definitely deserving of your PTO. Think upcoming bachelorette trips, wedding weekends, honeymoons, reunions or holiday celebrations and then take a look at the availability for booking — with this announcement dates could get booked up quickly.
Read on for details on each of the winners of the 2023 Vacation Homes of the Year, including how to book now.
This is what they mean by California King. The massive guest house is a perfect reprieve from the heat, as it comes with more pools and hot tubs than we know what to do with. It is located right in Palm Springs, about five minutes from the downtown area.
“This expansive desert escape is perfect for large groups and families, located only a couple hours by car from Los Angeles,” reads the press release. “The stunning outdoor space includes a private pool, mini golf course and sunset-viewing pavilion. The home also has a spa lounge with a sauna and steam room, and an exquisitely furnished and stocked chef’s kitchen.”
- Average price per night: $3,078
- Sleeps 16 — 9 bed, 9 bath
- Key features include: pool, sauna and spa, fire pit, mini golf course, hot tub, grill, vintage restored trailer
Don’t worry, book happy.
“The Happy Roadrunner is an impeccable, private retreat with a resort-style backyard and gorgeous, panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Centrally located in the city, the home is only minutes from the best activities Phoenix has to offer,” reads the press release.
We couldn’t think of a better name for this property, as all of the amenities make us smile. We recommend this for both nature lovers and not, as you are located near hiking trails as well as casinos and restaurants for some night life.
- Average price per night: $1,188
- Sleeps 16 — 6 bed, 5 bath
- Key features include: pool and waterfall, spa, putting green, fire place, game room/arcade, grill
What could be more picturesque than a private rental on the blue water’s edge? This rental home is located outside Charlotte, making it easy get to, but still private enough for relaxation in nature.
“The Chasestone is situated on a private peninsula with over 600 feet of lakefront views, less than an hour’s drive from the heart of Charlotte,” reads the press release. “The Nantucket-inspired home comes with a theater room, gourmet open-concept kitchen, and living area with direct access to the deck for al fresco dining.”
- Average price per night: $3,431
- Sleeps 18 — 4 bed, 7 bath
- Key features include: game room, Peloton, hot tub, pool, kayaks and canoes, optional boat rental
This is actually a breath of fresh air. The home in Manzanita is surrounded by trees, making you feel as if you are in the world’s biggest tree house with all the amenities. Aside from trees, you also get the sea, as the property is located right by the beach as well.
“This contemporary gem is a modern architectural masterpiece that feels like it’s floating among the trees. Walls of floor-to-ceiling windows welcome an abundance of natural light and offer impressive views of nearby Neahkahnie Beach,” reads the press release.
- Average price per night: $1,250
- Sleeps 12 — 5 bed, 4 bath
- Key features include: ocean views, hot tub, floor-to-ceiling windows
Thank goodness New York made the list, so we can head up after work. Only partially kidding, as you really could make the easy commute from the city to the Hamptons, where Montauk is located.
“This home is the ultimate secluded getaway offering proximity to the beach, spectacular ocean views and a newly expanded deck space — all within less than 2.5 hours driving from the Big Apple,” reads the press release. “A heated infinity pool and sunken hot tub outside and an art studio and movie theater inside mean there’s something for everyone.”
- Average price per night: $3,665
- Sleeps 10 — 5 bed, 5 bath
- Key features include: pool, hot tub, fire pit, movie theater, art studio, outdoor shower
Everything is bigger in Texas. This stunning home is a top-rated pick for those near Austin, as it provides a retreat far enough away from the hustle and bustle, but is close enough to swing in and out of the city. Plus, the price on this home is substantially less than others of it’s kind.
“The Riverfront Hideaway sits on five acres of land with direct river access and breathtaking views of the rolling Hill Country landscape. A huge wrap-around terrace seamlessly connects the open-concept living space with outdoor dining and gathering areas. The home is also less than an hour from Austin by car for a quick jaunt into the city,” reads the press release.
- Average price per night: $486
- Sleeps 6 — 2 bed, 3 bath
- Key features include: floor-to-ceiling windows, fire pit, grill, amazing views
This is the moment to call all your friends you’ve ever known and see if they’d like to come to Florida. The massive property can sleep a whopping 35 guests comfortably, as the property has four floors of space, not to mention the beach below and the yard with a pool and put-put.
“30A My Way is a beachfront paradise with four floors of outdoor gathering spaces between the lower deck and upper balconies, offering views of the turquoise waters and white-sand beach just steps away on the private boardwalk,” reads the press release. “The home is also cozily furnished and fully stocked with a gourmet kitchen and several wet bars.”
- Average price per night: $3,957
- Sleeps 35 — 10 bed, 13 bath
- Key features include: wet bars, private beach boardwalk, pool, outdoor shower, putting green, fireplace, elevator, grill, game room, beachfront
Is South Carolina calling to you? If so, answer fast, as this luxurious property is sure to be booked up soon. Head to Charleston for an easy drive to the property, with is removed enough from the city and right on the beach for those that need some relaxation.
“Port of Call is a grand, oceanfront home boasting phenomenal views of the water and located only half an hour from Charleston, making it a perfect spot for exploring the best of South Carolina’s coast. Inside, spacious living areas with large windows offer a relaxing place to rest after a day in the sun,” reads the press release.
- Average price per night: $5,456
- Sleeps 28 — 11 bed, 12 bath
- Key features include: pool, fire pit, elevator, gazebo, boardwalk, ocean-front, putting green, media room,
If your ideal escape is the nature of Idaho, this is for you. The stunning property shows off the landscape well, with views of both water and forrest. Then, spend some time inside the property enjoying the fire place and cozy amenities.
“Nestled along the Targhee National Forest and offering unfettered views of the Teton Valley landscape, Salmonfly Lodge offers an unforgettable, very much on trend, cowboy-cation experience. The home is also one of the best-appointed luxury log cabins in the area, complete with soaring ceilings, floor-to-ceiling fireplaces and designer touches throughout,” reads the press release.
- Average price per night: $1,353
- Sleeps 14 — 5 bed, 6 bath
- Key features include: forrest and lake views, fireplace, grill
Whether you ski, snowboard or just love the stunning views that Colorado boasts, this home is a must-see. The Winter Park home is a ski-in/ski-out property with plenty of space to set up your own apres-ski, too.
“Trestle House is a jaw-dropping ski-in/ski-out home just steps from the slopes in Winter Park Resort and only 1.5 hours from Denver,” reads the press release. “The brilliant mountain views, high-end amenities and elegant furnishings make for a perfectly luxurious ski vacation.”
- Average price per night: $1,689
- Sleeps 12 — 5 bed, 5 bath
- Key features include: hot tub, ski-in/ski-out, game room, fireplace
Did someone say bonus? This eleventh property is an extra gift from Vrbo, rounding out our list and expanding it beyond America.
“Villa Luna Nueva is this year’s bonus property located in the ever-popular Cabo San Lucas,” reads the press release. “The striking home combines traditional and modern elements to create a warm and inviting atmosphere indoors and has a lush and tropical outdoor area featuring an expansive patio, private pool and secluded garden terrace.”
- Average price per night: $1,163
- Sleeps 12 — 5 bed, 4 bath
- Key features include: grill, pool, hot tub, fire pit, daily maid service, concierge available
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