Known for its undisturbed natural grandeur, classic whaling centers and tranquil island atmosphere, Martha’s Vineyard is a highly sought-after island getaway.
Getting to the Vineyard is a bit more complicated than a regular seaside break, but it is absolutely worth it. Martha’s Vineyard is situated six miles south of Cape Cod in Massachusetts and can only be reached by ferry or plane – there are no bridges or tunnels. There are a variety of ferry choices that vary based on the season and if you are taking a car with you. There are various ways to reach the island, including traveling by car, ferry, or plane.
But if you are traveling with a car, it’s very important to remember these travel tips!
Bringing a car to Martha’s Vineyard? Take note of this!
The Steamship Authority is the only ferry service that operates for cars throughout the year, departing from Woods Hole on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and it takes about an hour for a single journey.
You must make a reservation for your car in advance either by visiting their website or calling 508.477.8600.
Take note that due to being the only car-ferry provider, the Steamship Authority service sells out even earlier than the passenger-only ferries!
Traveling to Martha’s Vineyard without a car
The Steamship Authority, leaving Woods Hole, also transports people without vehicles and gives more than twelve voyages per day.
During the time period between the start of May and Labor Day, ferry service for passengers only is offered from New Bedford, Hyannis, Falmouth, and Nantucket in Massachusetts, as well as Quonset Point in Rhode Island, New York City, and Northern New Jersey.
The ports that offer service to Martha’s Vineyard and the ferry service providers include the following:
- Woods Hole, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven) via Steamship Authority – 45 minutes
- Hyannis, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Hy-Line Cruises – 1 hour
- New Bedford, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Seastreak – 45 minutes
- Falmouth, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Island Queen – 35 minutes
- Nantucket, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Hy-Line Cruises – 1 hour
- New York City, NY to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Seastreak – 5 hours 15 minutes
- New Jersey to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Seastreak – 6 hours
- Rhode Island to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Vineyard Fast Ferry – 1 hour 45 minutes
- Falmouth, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Edgartown) via Falmouth-Edgartown Ferry – 1 hour
Travel to Martha’s Vineyard by plane
Year-round flights to Martha’s Vineyard Airport from Logan International Airport in Boston (BOS) can be taken with Cape Air or Private Air Charters. During the summer months, travelers can get direct flights to this location from JetBlue at both Logan Airport in Boston and JFK in New York City, Delta Air Lines from LaGuardia Airport in New York City, and American Airlines from Washington, D.C.
When you arrive at Martha’s Vineyard Airport
When you arrive at the Martha’s Vineyard Airport, you can utilize various transport services such as renting a car from Avis, Budget, or Hertz, using a taxi, employing a private car, or taking the bus.
Booking a car rental ahead of time is particularly suggested if you plan to visit the Vineyard during summertime. The Vineyard Transit Authority provides seasonal and reliable bus routes between Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, Aquinnah, Chilmark, and West Tisbury; the frequency of service depends on when you visit. If you are a cyclist, touring the island by bicycle is an amazing choice, and the Martha’s Vineyard taxis are ready to transport your bike, so you don’t have to take your car.
When you’re booking a vacation rental in Martha’s Vineyard, it’s wise to think about whether you’ll need a car. Many of our properties are in Oak Bluffs and there are plenty of places to hire bikes. However, we usually suggest renting a car so that you can take advantage of the stunning beaches that the island is known for.
Martha’s Vineyard is a stunning island; it’s just off the coast of Cape Cod and has plenty to offer visitors. From its beautiful scenery to its charming villages, there are many reasons why people flock there every year. One way you can get more out of your trip is by staying at a vacation home rather than in a hotel.
The best time to visit Martha’s Vineyard is during summer months between June to September, but if you have school holidays then visiting this place at any time of the year will be great for your family and friends.
Martha’s Vineyard has many wonderful attractions like hiking along trails, visiting historical sites including a lighthouse on Edgartown beach that was built in 1798 by George Washington’s uncle Captain John Trevett, learning about whales and dolphins at a marine science center on Oak Bluffs harbor where you can even go swimming with them! There are also ferry rides that take you all around this island so you never have too much walking unless it is just too sunny out there!
Here are some options that will give your family or group plenty of room to spread out:
Cottage by the Lagoon
Grassy yard and mature plantings enhance the truly beautiful views of the Lagoon, Hines Point, and Vineyard Haven harbor beyond. Perfectly sited to take advantage of this unique setting. Direct access to the Lagoon waterfront beach by way of a sturdy, large timber staircase. Look no further – you’ve found Home Sweet Vineyard Home!
The main great room leads to water views, sliders & a deck across the entire grassy back, and generous space for parking. With an open-style kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms & superb amenities, treat your family/friends to a dreamy retreat & sunny adventure. The patio area comes with an outdoor dining area and BBQ grill. Perfect for celebrating little victories or enjoying homemade burgers!
The home has 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms and a fully equipped Kitchen 2 Miles away from Flying Horses Carousel and Ocean Park The home comes with high speed WiFI Smart TVs dishwasher dryer.
Burkshire Manor
Berkshire Manor sits on a spacious land with lots of outdoor space that offers exclusivity and calming ambiance. This 4 bedroom home can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests with a large master bedroom on the first floor and more rooms on the second floor. We especially love our entertainment room in the basement! There’s plenty of space for everyone to play cards or poker, ping pong, or watch movies together after dinner.
You can still stay fit and in shape even on vacay with your family and friends with the new Peloton Bike! With its state-of-the-art design, this bike will help you achieve your fitness goals at home whether you want to lose weight or build muscle mass. At the end of your day climb into any one of our memory foam mattress topped beds for a peaceful and comfortable night’s sleep before heading out again tomorrow!
Stewart Cottage
The quintessential waterfront property: a beautiful home with breathtaking views nestled in a quiet, serene cul-de-sac.
Located in Oak Bluffs, the newly renovated 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom has a cozy, modern charm that will make you feel at home in the Vineyard. From the kitchen or living room and along the surrounding patio areas, you can take in the panoramic views of Brush Pond, the Lagoon, and the Drawbridge and indulge in its picturesque sunsets.
The home has two bedrooms, 1 full bathroom, a fully stocked and equipped kitchen (includes butler’s pantry), dining area with table seating for four people; there is also free parking available for 2 cars within our premise on East Chop Drive. The additional amenities include laundry room/office space; spa quality and bathroom essential.
Fresh Pond Chateau
Unwind at this stunning newly renovated home with modern furnishing!
The home is on a quiet, well-maintained private road and a perfect location for those seeking peace. Just a short drive to beaches and downtown shopping in Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, and Edgartown. The home has a newly renovated 3 bedroom cottage and 2 full spa bathrooms. The spacious living room with a large window refreshes the outside view. There is also an outdoor deck that wraps around the home with outside furniture for outdoor dining or family BBQing while watching your children play in the yard below you.
InkWell Beach is just a 7 minute drive away as well as Martha’s Vineyard Camp (a summer camp), which offers programs for kids during school breaks throughout the year!
Conclusion
These are just a few of the amazing vacation homes that you can find on Martha’s Vineyard. If you’re planning your next trip, check out our website and see what we have available! We’ll help make sure you have an unforgettable vacation at one of these beautiful properties.
With its wild coastline and rolling hills, it’s easy to see why people flock to Martha’s Vineyard year after year. If you’re planning a trip to Martha’s Vineyard this summer, there are plenty of things to do that aren’t on any other island in the region. Here are 10 unique attractions on Martha’s Vineyard that will make your trip even more memorable:
1) Take a Ride on Flying Horses Carousel
If you’re looking for something a little more traditional than the other Martha’s Vineyard attractions, this carousel is the perfect choice. Originally built in 1884 and operated at Coney Island Amusement Park, it was moved to Oak Bluff in 1895 and has remained there ever since. Now over 100 years old and still going strong, this carousel is considered one of the longest running continuously operating carousels in existence today! Be sure to check out their schedule because it varies in the summer months.
2) Be closer to nature with Japanese Garden of Mytoi
Located on the island of Chappaquiddick, the Japanese Garden of Mytoi is a privately owned botanical garden featuring native flora and exotic plants. The garden has a peaceful atmosphere that allows visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.
While you’re there, be sure to check out nearby Polly Hill Arboretum as well! It’s another botanical reserve that contains rare trees and shrubs around the world.
If you’re not interested in visiting either one, don’t fret—there are plenty of other ways to get closer with nature on Martha’s Vineyard!
3) Discover your inner film buff at Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival
A film festival on an island in Massachusetts? Why not? In fact, Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival is celebrating its 23rd year this summer. It runs from March to September, and you can find out what’s showing on their website. The annual event includes screenings of independent films at the Island Cinema in Vineyard Haven (and sometimes off-island), as well as events such as the family-friendly Summer Film Series. This year’s lineup features several full length and short films that showcase the culture of many different countries—it’s a great opportunity to learn about other cultures while enjoying some movies!
The Martha’s Vineyard International Film Festival has been screened since 2001 and was founded by local residents who wanted to celebrate local talent and bring international cinema to their island home. It’s held every year in early spring through late fall, with selections ranging from documentaries about social issues like immigration to horror flicks centered around fear of technology taking over our lives.
4) Visit the 300-year fishing village of Menemsha
When you visit Martha’s Vineyard, you will notice that the island is home to many beautiful towns and villages. One of the lesser known yet equally beautiful places on Martha’s Vineyard is Menemsha.
Located just 15 minutes north of Oak Bluffs, Menemsha is a picturesque fishing village away from the bustling scenes of Oaks Bluff and Edgartown. This quaint hamlet has been honed into perfection over time by fishermen who call this place home and visitors who are drawn to its natural beauty. It is also a popular destination for kayakers as well as windsurfers, who come here to enjoy its strong tides, clean water teeming with tasty bonito, bluefish and monster striped bass; all while taking advantage of its naturally sheltered coves that offer protection from winds off Nantucket Sound or Vineyard Sound depending on their location within Menemsha Bay itself!
Menemsha has become synonymous with seafood thanks to its long history as one of the most famous fishing villages in New England – dating back over 300 years! Its rich heritage includes being home to some of America’s oldest families including those descended from Native Americans who lived here long before Europeans arrived aboard ships like the Mayflower.”
5) The five lighthouses of Martha’s Vineyard
You’ll often hear Martha’s Vineyard referred to as “the island that time forgot,” and there’s no better way to see firsthand how true this nickname is than by visiting the five lighthouses of Martha’s Vineyard. The town contains more lighthouses in one area than any other place,, so if you’re into maritime history or can appreciate stunning scenery, this is a great place for you to visit.
West Chop Lighthouse was built in 1817 as a wooden structure, but rebuilt as brick in 1838 after suffering fire damage. It sits at the entrance of Vineyard Haven Harbor and was one of America’s most important stations during its heyday; today it is still an active beacon for sailors.
East Chop Lighthouse was built in 1869 and burned down soon after construction due to faulty design; it was rebuilt again in iron form in 1878 (this one stands today). Located at Oak Bluffs that overlooks Nantucket Sound, this lighthouse still guides ships safely past dangerous shoals into Edgartown Harbor each night when lit with white light flashes every ten seconds.
Edgartown Lighthouse stands on an island within Martha’s Vineyard harbor near downtown Edgartown—it was built in 1828 and raised on man made island for more accessibility through footbridge access over time; now it sits at the edge of town (Edgartown Harbor).
Cape Poge Lighthouse (aka “Cape Pogue Light Station”) – also known as “Pogue Light”; located at north end Chappaquiddick Island with views east across Vineyard Sound toward Boston skyline area & Gay Head Cliffs where Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe lives today .
Aquinnah Lighthouse also known as “Gay Head Light” or “Gay Head Light Station” was built in 1799 on the westernmost point off Lighthouse Road.
6) Explore Farm stands
Martha’s Vineyard has a long history of farming and agricultural tradition going back to its earliest days. Today, the island is home to over 40 farms that provide scenery to the local community. These farms have been the source of the growth of so many farm-to-table restaurants and catering options on Martha’s Vineyard. Nearly all these farms operate a Farm Stand where the public can directly purchase fresh produce as well as value added items such as jams, jellies, honey and pickles made from their crops.
Farmers’ markets are a great place to meet local farmers and learn about the island’s food culture. Some of our favorites are Grey Barn Farm, Morning Glory Farm, Ghost Island Farm, Allen Sheep Farm, 7A Farm , Mermaid Farm , Bakehouse Farm .
7) Browse a gallery of hand blown art glasses at MV Glassworks
The art of glass blowing has been around since ancient times and is still used by modern artists to create remarkable pieces. MV Glassworks, located on State Road in West Tisbury, has been creating art glass for more than twenty years. Bring your friends or family with you to watch these masterful creators work their magic as they blow and shape glass into beautiful pieces that you can take home with you! You will have the opportunity to learn about a new craft while taking in an amazing vista from their studio windows.
8) Try the lobster ice cream at Ben and Bill’s Ice Cream Emporium
This ice cream shop on the west side of Martha’s Vineyard has a wide selection of flavors, with over 20 to choose from. If you’re looking for something new, try their lobster ice cream! The recipe is based on Ben and Bill’s homemade butter, which gives it a sweet flavor that pairs well with the creaminess of traditional vanilla ice cream. You can also order it in a cup or cone with chocolate or rainbow sprinkles added on top!
9) Hiking Trails or Biking tour
You can also try hiking or biking tours. Martha’s Vineyard is a weekend hiker’s dream with wildlife, beaches, forest, and relatively flat terrain. Another way to explore Martha’s Vineyard is through a bike tour! The north side of the island is sheltered and relatively flat. It is the perfect spot for a family bike ride between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown. If you are a serious bike rider, conquer the island by riding the whole 62-mile circumference (which takes most people 2-3 days).
10) Stay in a Vacation Home
If you are looking for a unique way to experience Martha’s Vineyard, consider staying in a vacation home. An Elevate Vacation Home is the best way to stay on the island. A vacation home lets you experience Martha’s Vineyard like a local and provides all of the comforts of home with breathtaking ocean views from every room. There are four beautiful houses available when visiting: Cottage by the Lagoon, Berkshire Manor, Stewart Cottage, and Fresh Pond Chateau
The most popular time of year to visit Martha’s Vineyard is during the summer months (June-August). You can search for homes that fit your needs by checking out their website or calling them directly!
Conclusion
It’s time to plan your trip to Martha’s Vineyard and escape from the daily grind. We have put together a list of 10 unique attractions that you can visit during your stay on this special island. There are plenty of things to do in Martha’s Vineyard, but there is nothing better than experiencing nature up close with all its natural beauty!
When you travel to a new place, it’s easy to fall into the trap of doing things only tourists do. While this can make for fun stories later on and help you remember your trip, it also keeps you from getting the full experience of what a location has to offer. If you want to truly immerse yourself in a city or town while on vacation, try staying in an apartment or home closer to its heart. You’ll be close enough that walking around is easy but far enough away that it doesn’t feel like there are too many other people around (while still providing amenities like Wi-Fi and cable TV).
Looking for a vacation property that is closer to the heart of its community helps travelers feel like locals.
A vacation property that is closer to the heart of its community helps travelers feel like locals.
- Stay in a vacation rental. If you’re looking for places where you can meet new people, start by picking out a vacation rental. There are plenty of online resources for finding rentals through local companies which can help you get to know your neighbors and make sure that everyone has a great time during your stay.
- Shop and eat at local businesses and restaurants. Choose to stay in communities with shops and restaurants within walking distance. This will also give you the opportunity to connect with owners and employees of these business and share their local culture, history and can even offer recommendations in the area.
Take advantage of your proximity to attractions by exploring local culture and activities on foot.
The best way to experience a new city is by exploring it like a local. By focusing on activities that are within walking distance of your hotel, you can immerse yourself in the community and learn more about what makes this place special.
You can also get a better sense of what life is like for the locals by walking around: you’ll see how they shop, eat and play while getting exercise at the same time!
Local businesses are often overlooked by tourists, giving people staying close to downtown a chance to try new places.
Local businesses are often overlooked by tourists, giving people staying close to downtown a chance to try new places. Local businesses have the advantage of being more affordable than chain stores, but they’re also more authentic and environmentally friendly.
For example, if you want to eat at one of those fancy steakhouses with a $50 entree that your friends back home are always raving about, you can probably find one nearby. But if you want something different from what everyone else is doing this summer? Try checking out some small-scale restaurants or cafes instead—they might not be as well-known around the world as big name restaurants, but they might also surprise you with their quality and value!
Community events are fun and educational ways for tourists staying in downtown areas to learn about local culture.
Community events are a great way to get involved in the local culture and meet new people. This is true even if you’re staying in downtown areas where the community center or other local venues are within walking distance. For example, if you’re staying in Oak Bluffs and want to learn more about Martha’s Vineyard’s history, check out one of the cheap Island tours offered by the locals. Learn from your guide about the island’s history and residents as you seel places such as the historic towns of Edgartown, Menemsha and Aquinnah.
You can also take part in community events that are related to your interests. For example, if you love sports but aren’t into professional sports teams because you don’t live close enough or have other reasons for not supporting them—you can still attend community sporting events like softball games or pick-up basketball games at parks located near your hotel or apartment building!
Community events will give tourists staying in downtown areas an opportunity to meet locals who share their interest area(s) so they can learn more about each other’s background knowledge/experiences/etc. It’s an excellent opportunity for tourists looking forward to making new friends while also having fun doing something different during their vacation time!
Vacation rentals can make it easier for people to feel like locals because they provide home-like accommodations
Vacation rentals are a great way to get the local experience. They often come cheaper than hotels, and they can be found in residential areas or downtown areas.
Staying close to the heart of a community makes it easier for travelers to immerse themselves in local culture.
Staying close to the heart of a community makes it easier for travelers to immerse themselves in local culture. Renting an apartment or house is important for this, as it allows you to live in the neighborhood and develop relationships with locals. You’ll be able to access public transportation easily if your home is near town or close to a bus stop that can take you anywhere you need to go.
Guests can ask host personalized recommendations on restaurants, places to go and other activities
You can ask your host to recommend a restaurant, museum or activity. They know the area well and will be able to tell you about local food, culture, and activities that tourists might miss. He or she may also be able to steer you clear of tourist traps—like restaurants with bad food or overpriced souvenirs—and offer advice on how to avoid crowds during high season.
Avoid touristy places and spend your time with how the locals do.
When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
When you visit a place, there is no reason to avoid touristy places. In fact, they can be a lot of fun. But when you are trying to learn about the local culture and experience what life is like for those who live in that area, it is best to spend time with people who do not work for tour agencies.
There are two ways that we would recommend:
- Ask around and see if there are any locals who would be willing to show you around town or take you on an outing of some kind (a picnic in the park, a walking tour of their neighborhood). This will give an authentic experience while still being safe and enjoyable!
- If neither of these options works out well enough then maybe consider going alone; just don’t forget your phone charger because nothing ruins vacation time like having no way to contact anyone in case something goes wrong!
Conclusion
We hope that these tips will help you enjoy your vacation like a local. If you need more information on how to find the perfect place to stay in New York, Martha’s Vineyard, or the Hamptons, we’re happy to help! Contact us at our website or give us a call at (516) 266-2700 We can answer any questions about local activities and transportation options for people who want to feel like locals when visiting New York!
Guests are looking for more than a place to sleep when they rent their next vacation home. They want the latest and greatest in amenities, including high speed wifi, smart TVs, and access to Netflix. But beyond those basics, what else do guests look for?
Here’s a list of the top 5 things that guests look for in their next vacation rental:
High speed wifi
WiFi is a must for vacation rentals. It’s a standard that guests expect, and it’s something they want to feel connected to even if they are on vacation. Guests want to be able to connect multiple devices at once, especially in the kitchen and living area of your rental home—this way you can have dinner parties or game nights with friends and family!
There is nothing worse than slow internet when you’re trying to catch up on work or keep up with your favorite shows.
Smart TV, Netflix
Guests love to watch TV. It’s a top amenity for vacation rentals and when guest are on vacation, they want to unwind in front of the TV with their family or friends.
Netflix is available on most smart TVs, so it can be one of the best options for your guests who want to watch movies and shows while they stay at your rental property.
Full size kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and many renters want to be able to cook their own meals while they’re staying in your property. A full-size kitchen is a must for most guests. If you have an apartment or condo with a small kitchen, consider adding a microwave and mini-fridge so that your tenants can prepare simple meals and snacks without having to eat out every night.
Pool/ Hot tub
The pool or hot tub is always an attractive amenity for guests. Pool owners enjoy the fun, carefree atmosphere that a pool creates. Hot tub owners love to relax in their hot tubs while they unwind from work and enjoy the quiet sounds of nature.
Pool owners often host family parties with their friends so they can cool off, play games and have fun with others in the same age group. Hot tubs are great for entertaining adults because they allow you to relax after a long day at work while taking in the outdoors or watching television by yourself.
Porch or balcony
For guests, the porch or balcony is often a second living room, great for relaxing and enjoying a drink or meal. If you have pets, it’s also the perfect place to let them roam free without worrying about them getting into trouble. And if you’re smoking cigarettes, the porch or balcony is where you can do just that (assuming your host has given you permission).
Washer and Dryer
If you like to travel for extended periods of time, washers and dryers are something you can’t do without. They are perfect for those who would like to pack light, or who spend more than a few days in one location.
For families staying in vacation homes, this can be very useful for them as they will not have to worry about carrying their dirty clothes with them or having their children wear the same outfit every day. A property manager can also offer laundry service for guests at their request; this is especially helpful if you need someone else to do it instead of doing it yourself or having your child do it by themselves.
Pet friendly amenities
Pet friendly amenities are a great way to attract a larger audience and make sure you’re in line with the lifestyle of many of your guests. With this in mind, it’s important to understand what pet-related amenities might be right for your property.
The first step is deciding whether or not having pets across the board is something that would work with your vision as an owner. You then need to have rules in place when guests bring their pets along on vacation with them so that everyone can enjoy their stay together.
The next step is whether or not there will be any kind of cleaning fee charged for small pets that aren’t allowed inside the home (such as cats). Many owners choose not to charge anything more than a modest fee for this type of oversight because it’s so easy for pet owners who travel with their animals on vacation to clean up after them (allowing them access into certain areas without paying extra fees)
Conclusion
Whether you’re a guest or a host, it’s important to know what amenities your guests are looking for when they come to stay. They may not always be able to find them and therefore, will be forced to look elsewhere. With all that being said, it is up to us as hosts to make sure we keep up with the trends and provide our guests with what they want so that we can continue having a successful business!
Are you looking for a new way to travel? Why not consider staying in a vacation home instead of a hotel? You’ll get more space, be able to cook your own meals, and save money on all the extras. Plus, with so many people living in cities these days, it’s nice when you can travel like a local and take advantage of all that suburban life has to offer!
More space for you and your family
Let’s face it: hotel rooms are small. And when you’re staying in one for an extended period of time, you’ll want space to stretch out and relax. You also want a place where your kids can play—a hotel room isn’t exactly the best place for that.
A vacation home offers much more space than a traditional hotel room, so you can spread out and get some peace from each other (and maybe even from yourself). It also means there are more options if you want to cook or entertain friends at home rather than going out every night like so many people do on vacation
Travel with a bigger group
One of the biggest advantages of staying in a vacation home is that you can bring more people with you.
When it comes to traveling with friends, couples, or families, it’s important to have enough space. Some hotels may not be able to accommodate everyone in your party and this could lead to uncomfortable situations down the road. A vacation home provides more privacy than a hotel room because there is no one else living above or below you so there are no worries about noise levels affecting your stay! Another great reason why traveling together as a group can be beneficial is because they allow all members of your party to spend quality time together while on vacation which creates memories worth making for years to come!
Cook at home with a full size kitchen
Let’s start with the obvious: When you cook your own meals, you save money. Especially in New York City, eating out is expensive! The average family or group spends about $100 per day on food when they’re away from home, which adds up quickly if you’re paying for multiple people and eating at restaurants every night.
Live more like the locals do
When in Rome, do as the Romans do!
When you stay in a hotel, you’re living in their world, not your own. You rarely get to know the local community because there is no incentive for them to share it with you. But when you stay in a vacation home, you can live as if you were really a resident of a city or the community. You can learn about what’s important from the people who actually live there – not just from some concierge who works for the hotel.
Save more money
When it comes to traveling, you always want to save as much money as possible. And the best way to save money on your vacation rental is by booking it early, so that you have the best selection available. In addition, the longer you stay in a vacation home, the more money you can save!
More amenities
Vacation rentals have access to amenities that hotels simply can’t provide. A common feature of vacation homes is a pool and/or hot tub, which are great places to relax after a day of sightseeing or playing on the beach. Many vacation homeowners also provide games rooms with pool tables, arcade games and even football tables.
Vacation homes also come with private balconies where guests can enjoy their morning coffee or evening wine without disturbing anyone else in the house; many even offer outdoor amenities such as grills and a heated pool!!
Easier to travel with pets
One of the biggest perks of staying in a vacation home is that you can bring your pets. Most hotels have strict rules about pets, but if you’re staying in a vacation home, there’s usually no issue with bringing them along (with the exception of some timeshare properties).
Pet owners know how difficult it can be to travel without their furry friends by their side. Fortunately, most vacation homes will permit dogs and cats (and sometimes other pets) as long as they are well-behaved and don’t damage property or cause problems for other guests. You should always check with your host about their specific pet policy before booking your stay!
If traveling with a dog or cat sounds like something you’re interested in doing on your next trip, consider bringing along one of these:
Parking access
Parking access is a convenient feature of many vacation homes. You can park your car in front of the house so that you don’t have to carry luggage through the city or up flights of stairs. Or, if there is ample space, you can park your car in a garage or parking lot. Some properties also offer driveways and curb cuts for easy access to and from the street.
Conclusion
When you stay at a vacation home, there are more things to do than just lie on a beach or go swimming in the pool. You can cook meals for your family, play games together and even save money by cooking in the kitchen. With so many benefits to staying at a vacation home instead of a hotel, it’s no wonder why so many people choose them!
There is a lot of money to be made in the short-term vacation rental market. In fact, according to a research done by Airbnb, an average host can earn $30,000 a year by listing their property in vacation marketplace platforms such as Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, or a property manager’s direct booking site like Elevate Properties.
While it has huge potential, it’s important for homeowners to understand what they’re getting themselves into before jumping into the industry. As anyone who has ever rented out their home knows, there are many factors that need to be considered before investing in this type of venture (and many more after).
Not every home is a fit for the vacation rental market, and you need to make sure that yours meets the criteria before you take the leap and try it out. Here are five things you should know before deciding if this route is right for you:
Identify if your home is suitable as a vacation rental property.
Before turning your home into a vacation rental property, consider the following:
Ask yourself. If it was listed as a vacation rental property, would you stay in it? If the answer is no, then chances are that someone else won’t either. Ask yourself why you wouldn’t stay there. Is the room too small? Do you have all the necessary amenities that make guests feel at home? Answers to these questions will help determine if your home has potential as a successful short-term rental property.
Check if there is demand in your area for vacation rentals. If you live in New York City, Florida, or Martha’s Vineyard and have been thinking about taking advantage of this growing trend by converting your home into a vacation rental listing, then chances are good that there will be demand for such properties within driving distance from these destinations. Even more so if you live near restaurants and places of interest that attract tourists from around the world!
Be prepared for the investment needed
A vacation rental property is an investment. And there are typical investments expected in maintaining your home but it’s another when you list it as a vacation rental.
Invest in high quality furniture that can stand wear and tear, home automation technology that lets guests automatically check in or control lights, and home security systems that protect guests and hosts from theft.
Additionally, maintaining a vacation rental property can also require additional investments throughout the year. Fixing any property damages that may arise during guests’ stay (such as spills or broken windows), fixing appliances if it breaks down, cleaning carpets, changing bulbs and other unforeseen costs along the way.
Comply with the legal requirements
Before you start renting out your home, it’s crucial to check the legal requirements that may apply to your city and state where your property is located.
If you live in a community association or condominium complex for example, a homeowners association could have rules about vacation rentals or other short-term rentals. Your city may also have some regulations about such issues as noise levels, parking spaces and garbage disposal that affect guests staying at your property during their stay.
Also, keep in mind that many cities have enacted ordinances requiring potential rental properties to obtain business licenses, which means paying taxes on income generated from short-term rentals. In addition, most cities require businesses offering short term accommodations through web platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO (Vacation Rental By Owner) provide proof of insurance coverage when they register with local municipalities before listing their properties online
Understand the business you’re going into
As a homeowner, you need to make sure you have an understanding of the vacation rental business before jumping in. It’s a market that’s constantly changing. Keep in mind that there are ups and downs in the market, off peak and peak seasons, and guests that may cause issues along the way.
While there are property management companies like Elevate Properties that can help manage and market the listing for you, this doesn’t mean they will be able to cover all aspects of the process. Homeowners have to secure the proper legalities, insurance and documents before they can list it.
Lastly, homeowners should acknowledge that listing their home will affect their ability to use it when they want to. And this may mean booking their property as a guest themselves!
Have a property management partner
Having a reliable property management partner is crucial for making sure your guests have a pleasant and memorable stay, managing daily upkeep – and not to mention helping you address potential property damages.
A good property management partner will guide you through everything from marketing your property to ensuring it will be priced competitively. They can help you set up the necessary licenses, requirements and additional documents before you can list your home.
Technical expertise and local market knowledge of your property management partner can also help you make the most of your vacation rental property. So this is why choosing an experienced property management company like Elevate Properties can help you manage your property on your behalf, unlocking the full value and potential of your home as a vacation rental property!
If you want to know more about how to list your home as a vacation rental property and the potential income it can make, book a call with one of our Elevate advisors!