Beach vacations are the stuff of dreams and beautiful memories. Whether you’re planning an extravagant beach wedding, a special family getaway, or just a romantic weekend for two, one thing you need to make it all possible is a great vacation rental.
But with so many options available, how do you find the perfect place?
In this article, we’ll share my methods for finding a vacation rental that hits all the checkmarks – from being close to the beach to having all the amenities and luxuries you crave.
Beachfront and beach view aren’t the same
Beachfront and beach view are two different things when it comes to renting a vacation home. Beachfront, of course, means you’re right on the beach with no other property between you and the sand.
Beach view meanwhile, is where you can still see the ocean and hear the waves but there is usually another property in-between you and the beach. Though beach views are still awesome for taking in those stunning sights!
It all depends on what type of experience you’re looking for. If it’s important to have direct access to the beach then making sure your rental is truly beachfront is paramount.
Meanwhile, if direct access isn’t as necessary then a beach view may give you that little bit extra privacy – it’s really all down to personal preference.
Check the cancellation policy
When you start looking for the perfect vacation rental, be sure to check the cancellation policy. This is because it’s important to know if and under what circumstances you can get a refund if something comes up and you need to cancel your trip.
Be aware that not all rental companies have the same cancellation policy, so make sure to read through the fine print before making your reservation.
For example, some policies might allow early cancellations but require proof of an unavoidable emergency. Others could have a strict no-refund policy with no option for any type of reimbursement in case of cancellation.
You should also check each insurer’s fees too, as they add up quickly and have a major impact on your overall costs. Taking the time to do this research will help ensure that you find a great vacation rental while protecting yourself against surprise charges or canceled trips.
Ask for the exact address
It’s always a good idea to ask for the exact address before you rent a vacation rental. That way, you can find out all the important details like location and safety in your destination, so you can make an informed decision.
The Internet has made booking your perfect vacation rental easier, but it does have its downfalls. For example, many adverts refuse to disclose the exact address until after you have paid, which makes it difficult to check the area or research potential safety issues.
Therefore, be sure to check everything before making a commitment – even if that means asking for the exact physical address of your rental property before signing on the dotted line. It could save you a lot of headaches down the line!
Sand management matters
When it comes to beach rentals, sand management matters! That’s because no one wants several tons of sand in the vacation rental after they leave.
It’s a tedious chore that leaves everyone feeling exhausted. Fortunately, there are some tips you can follow to make sand management easier.
For starters, always ask for quick access to an outside shower or a self-cleaning mudroom when renting a beach property. Provide cover-up clothing for kids so they don’t track the sand into the house.
Make sure that you and your family wear flip-flops or other shoes that are easy to takeoff at the door before entering the property. Finally, use furniture throws or plastic covers on chairs and sofas that kids might sit on with their sandy feet and clothes.
Sand management may seem like a nuisance but it’s important to maintain cleanliness in your rental properties!
Consider a pool
Having access to a pool may be essential for your beach vacation. Families especially can benefit from having a pool since the kids can enjoy it and provide another level of entertainment for the adults in tow.
Plus, think about how exciting and convenient it’ll be if you have your own pool to enjoy after an exhausting day at the beach. You won’t even have to worry about making a reservation elsewhere!
When looking for that perfect rental property, make sure you check if they offer a pool or not. If you’re willing to pay extra, you can find quite a few high-end places with luxury amenities like their own private pools or hot tubs.
Lastly, often times when you look deeper into what’s included in the rental, hotels will provide access to larger communal pools with waterslides and other exciting attractions that are sure to please the entire family!
Be wary of the sunset photo
When you’re looking at vacation rentals online, one of the first photos you’ll see is a pictureque photo of a sunset. It’s a great image to use because it’s aesthetically pleasing and evokes a feeling of relaxation.
Be aware though, that this photo didn’t need to be taken from the rental! Many property owners post pictures from other nearby beach locations.
In order to make sure that you’re actually booking the rental that promises such amazing views, be sure to contact the owner for more details about the specific location.
A trusted way to ensure that your view will match what was promised is to request google earth or map images of the exact location where your rental will be located. That way there won’t be any surprises when it comes time for your vacation!
Final Words
Finding the perfect vacation rental can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With careful planning and research, you can easily find the right spot for your next beach vacation.
Whether you’re looking for luxury or seclusion, don’t forget to inquire about available amenities, check reviews, and ensure that you choose a rental with all of your desired features. By taking each factor into consideration, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect spot that ensures an unforgettable experience.
