The amenities you choose for a vacation rental home can make a measurable difference in
booking frequency, guest reviews, and achievable nightly rates. That’s especially true in
coastal and seasonal markets like Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket—but the same
principles apply to beach towns and summer destinations across the country.
In coastal markets with weekly summer rentals, guests tend to prioritize outdoor space, easy sand cleanup, and features that make longer stays comfortable and convenient.
Guests often compare homes quickly and make decisions based on comfort, convenience, and “vacation feel.” The goal
is to cover the must-have basics travelers expect, then add a few standout features that help your
property feel effortless, relaxing, and worth a premium.
Must-have vacation rental basics (the “expectations checklist”)
Before investing in high-end upgrades, make sure the essentials are covered. These are the features guests commonly
look for and notice immediately:
- Reliable, fast Wi-Fi throughout the home
-
Comfortable sleeping setup
(quality mattresses, adequate pillows, window coverings)
- Cooling and heating appropriate to your season
- Washer and dryer (especially for beach weeks and longer stays)
- Parking that fits your occupancy
- Easy check-in (clear instructions, ideally keyless entry)
- Streaming-friendly TV setup (simple, modern, easy to use)
- Outdoor basics: a grill and a place to sit and eat outside
Once those are in place, the amenities below are where many owners see real differentiation.
Air Conditioning (and humidity control)
An increasing number of vacationers request—and often expect—air conditioning, and many are willing
to pay a premium for homes that offer it. While coastal New England may not have extreme heat every day,
summer humidity can be high.
In a vacation rental, AC also supports the property itself:
- Helps keep indoor spaces comfortable during humid spells
- Reduces the risk of musty odors between turnovers
-
Supports moisture control, which can help lower the risk of mold issues
If whole-home AC isn’t realistic, targeted upgrades (like ductless systems in main living areas and top-floor
bedrooms) can still meaningfully improve guest comfort.
A well-equipped, updated kitchen
One of the biggest advantages of renting a home rather than staying in a hotel or inn is the ability to
prepare meals and spend time together. A well-equipped kitchen with modern appliances is highly
appealing to vacationers and can reduce friction during a stay—especially for families and multi-generational
groups.
For families and multi-generational groups, kitchen layout and dining capacity often influence booking decisions, particularly for weeklong stays where shared meals become part of the vacation experience.
High-impact kitchen details guests appreciate:
- Enough plates, glasses, and utensils for your maximum occupancy
- Matching cookware and bakeware that’s actually usable
- Sharp knives and basic tools (cutting boards, can opener, blender)
- A coffee setup that feels intentional (not random pieces)
- Clean, uncluttered storage so guests can settle in quickly
- Don’t overlook dining (indoors and out)
Also important is a comfortable dining area—both indoors and out—that seats the same number of
guests your home accommodates. If a home sleeps 8 but only seats 4 for dinner, that mismatch shows up in reviews.
Smart home features and easy check-in
Smart amenities can improve the guest experience while making it easier to manage your rental remotely.
Top features that help both owners and guests:
- Keyless entry (simplifies arrival, improves security, reduces lost-key issues)
- Smart thermostat (comfort + energy control)
- Smart TVs (easy streaming and fewer “how do I log in?” problems)
- Exterior lighting or entry sensors for safer nighttime arrivals
The best smart home setups are the ones guests barely have to think about—simple, reliable, and clearly explained
in your house guide.
Outdoor living space (a major booking driver in coastal markets)
Vacationers want to spend as much time outdoors as possible, and private outdoor space is a major
draw. Decks, patios, porches, and yards all add value and can positively influence rental rates.
Outdoor features that consistently elevate the guest experience:
- Comfortable seating (not just a basic plastic set)
- Outdoor dining table sized to your occupancy
- Grill and basic grilling tools
- Fire pit area (where appropriate and permitted)
- Lawn games for family groups
Since the pandemic, outdoor kitchens have become increasingly popular. These range from beautifully
designed stone patios complete with ceiling fans and TVs to simpler setups with a grill, countertop, and beverage
refrigerator—all of which appeal to today’s vacationers.
Add “sand-friendly” functionality
Coastal homes benefit from small design choices that prevent sand from taking over:
- A hose or foot rinse near an entry
- Hooks for wet towels and suits
- A defined “drop zone” for beach bags
These details reduce wear-and-tear and make turnovers easier.
Beach gear (small investment, big perceived value)
Providing beach gear is an easy way to make a home feel guest-ready—especially for families flying in or traveling
with kids.
Popular items include:
- Beach chairs and umbrellas
- Sand toys
- Coolers
- A wagon/cart (if storage allows)
Organize gear in one clearly labeled area so guests can find it quickly—and so it’s easier for your team to
inventory during turnovers.
Outdoor shower
An outdoor shower is a classic Cape and Islands feature that many vacationers view as a special treat. Guests often
describe it as a refreshing daily ritual—and it’s also practical for keeping sand out of the house.
Ideal outdoor shower features:
- Enclosure for privacy
- Hot water
- Plenty of hooks for wet bathing suits and towels
- Shelf space for toiletries
This is also an amenity guests love to mention in reviews because it feels both memorable and “vacation-specific.”
Final takeaway: choose amenities that match your guests and protect your asset
Thoughtfully chosen amenities not only make a vacation home more comfortable and enjoyable, but they can also set
your property apart in a competitive rental market. By investing in features that enhance everyday living—both
indoors and out—you meet vacationers’ expectations, encourage repeat bookings, and often justify higher rental
rates.
Ultimately, the most successful rentals are those that make guests feel relaxed, well cared for, and eager to
return year after year.
FAQ: Vacation rental amenities (for investors)
Q: What amenities increase vacation rental bookings the most?
A: Start with the basics guests expect (Wi-Fi, comfortable sleeping setup, climate control, easy
check-in), then prioritize upgrades that enhance outdoor living and convenience.
- Start with: Wi-Fi, sleep comfort, climate control, easy check-in
- Then add: outdoor living upgrades + convenience features
Q: Is air conditioning worth it for coastal vacation rentals?
A: In many markets, yes—especially during humid stretches when comfort and sleep quality become
major factors in reviews and repeat bookings.
- Best for: humid weeks and peak summer demand
- Why it helps: comfort + better sleep can improve reviews
Q: What outdoor features do guests care about most?
A: Outdoor dining, comfortable seating, and a simple, functional grilling setup typically deliver
strong guest satisfaction without adding excessive complexity.
- Highest impact: dining table + comfortable seating
- Low-friction add: grill + basic grilling tools
Q: Are smart locks worth it for rental homes?
A: Yes—keyless entry improves guest convenience, supports smoother check-ins, and simplifies
operations for owners and property managers.
- Guest win: easier arrivals, fewer key issues
- Owner win: simpler access management + better security
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