The Top 10 Travel Destinations For 2026
The Top Destinations to Visit in 2026, According to Vrbo
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With the spring season kicking into full gear, now's an opportune time to start securing your travel plans for the rest of the year. When coordinating trips in the US and beyond, I always start with lodging: Do I want to stay in a hotel or rental? How close (or far) do I want to be from a major city? And what amenities are on my must-have list? I tend to gravitate more toward rentals than hotels so I can take advantage of the creature comforts associated with home, from a fully stocked kitchen to a private pool I can enjoy at any time. So Vrbo's newly released list of the top vacation homes of the year is a go-to guide when I'm choosing the best rentals — and destinations — to have on my radar.
From a desert oasis in Palm Desert, California to a poolside paradise in Sag Harbor, New York, there's no shortage of places to explore in 2026. And about those previously mentioned amenities: infinity pools, private saunas, steam rooms, outdoor bathtubs, mini-golf courses, sunken jacuzzis, art studios, and movie theaters are only some of the luxuries you can indulge in at these destinations. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway in Park City, Utah, or a week in Big Sky, Montana, keep scrolling for the best places to travel this year, according to Vrbo.
Palm Desert, California
Perch Geo Dome ($1,511 per night)
Imagine staying in the middle of the desert in a glass Geo Dome with the mountains stretching out before you. Your only decision is choosing between a swim in the top-rated pool or a dip in the hot tub. The popular rental in the famed Palm Desert area boasts everything from a tennis court to a spa whirlpool, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, museum visits, horseback riding, and thrifting nearby.
Hamptons Sag Harbor, New York
Modern Barn House ($2,774 per night)
Sag Harbor is one of the most in-demand destinations in the Hamptons, and the Modern Barn House is an ideal home to stay in when you visit. From a private pool to a fireplace to a barbeque grill, it has all the trappings of a fun summer getaway with family and friends.
Hanalei, Hawaii
Tiki Home ($1,742 per night)
Hawaii is still one of my favorite places to travel to, and the Tiki Home truly captures the vibrant, earthy nature of the island. Hanalei specifically is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world which is just steps away from the property. But you don't even have to leave the rental to experience the beauty of nature: the wraparound windows, views of the waterfall, and Ohi'a and Tiki beams all work to bring the outside in. Add a fitness center, spa, and nearby ecotourism activities — and this home is a must visit.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Veranda Laguna ($1,397 per night)
Looking for a waterfront retreat in the rising travel destination of Gulf Shores? Veranda Laguna is the one. Enjoy floor-to-ceiling views of the Little Lagoon (a short five-minute walk away) plus a private pier, heated pool, and an elevator. With 6-bedrooms (all with private bathrooms), it's ideal for hosting celebrations from birthdays to weddings.
Wilmington, North Carolina
Historic Firehouse ($463 per night)
If you've ever dreamed of staying inside a firehouse, now's your chance. The Historic Firehouse in Wilmington, North Carolina is a once-in-a-lifetime treat for you and your guests, creating a core memory you'll remember for years to come. Though you do have to climb stairs to access the upstairs suite, you'll find yourself enamored with the high ceilings, exposed brick walls, reading nook, and spacious at-home dining area. It's also centrally located next to wine shops, art galleries, restaurants, and more.
Osage Beach, Missouri
The Lighthouse ($833 per night)
It's high time to plan a trip to the legendary Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri (yes, of Netflix fame) and The Lighthouse is the perfect place to stay. Some highlights? A movie theater, heated pool, sunken hot tub, gourmet kitchen, game room, two wet bars, and a private dock with a swim platform so you can enjoy the lake at your leisure. But my preferred amenity by far is the TV and soundbar setup that lets you watch your favorite shows from the pool.
Charleston, South Carolina
Wortham House ($400 per night)
Charleston, South Carolina is one of my favorite cities in the country, with its charming architecture, scenic views, and delicious restaurants. The popular Wortham House captures the city's one-of-a-kind culture with a private, romantic garden, dine-in kitchen, and a spacious lounge for coffee or cocktails.
Breckenridge, Colorado
Shock Hill Grand ($948 per night)
Colorado is top on my list of destinations to visit this year, for the breathtaking views and plethora of outdoor activities. My pick for lodging is the Shock Hill Grand with the surrounding mountainous landscape, hot tub, and front-row views of the Breckenridge ski area. What's more, the property is gondola in/gondola out which makes for an exciting, novel experience every time you step outside.
Big Sky, Montana
Happy Trails ($2,191)
Having my own ranch is a dream, and I can get close to it for a week or two in Big Sky, Montana at the Happy Trails rental. Transformed from a horse property, this gorgeous 22-acre property boasts all the features of a private ranch, including a wood-burning fireplace, wall-to-wall windows, and a party barn perfect for entertaining a large group.
Park City, Utah
Deer Valley Home ($1,583 per night)
If like me, you're curious about traveling to Utah after seeing its breathtaking landscape in the background of all your favorite reality shows, book a trip to Park City and stay at the beloved Deer Valley Home. The 5-bedroom house includes a private hot tub, fireplace, pool table, and floor-to-ceiling windows for a glimpse of those stunning mountain views — plus a free skier shuttle to Deer Valley Base if you want to hit the slopes.
Keep scrolling to see the Vrbo rentals of the year from 2025.
Folly Beach, South Carolina
The Folly River attracts guests all year long, thanks to its beautiful landscape and laidback, inviting culture. It's a striking backdrop for Deep Water Days, the sprawling 5-bedroom rental where you can see a view of the river from almost every room. Ranging from a private pool to a spa to a copper fire pit, every amenity is designed for guests to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Seagrove Beach, Florida
Watching the sunset while relaxing on a beach chair on this waterfront property? Don't mind if I do. "Domus Paci," which means house of peace in Latin, boasts 7 rooms, 2 pools, a game room, a fireplace, and the list goes on.
But you'll still want to venture away from home and explore the great outdoors in Seagrove Beach, a neighborhood becoming well-known for its crystal waters and white-sand beaches located on the Gulf of Mexico. The rental even comes with private beach access so guests can enjoy activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, or just walking along the water's edge.
Dripping Springs, Texas
Add Dripping Springs to your list of Texas destinations to visit, alongside Houston, Dallas, and Austin. From vineyards and breweries to live music, it's a popular hub for entertainment and experiences — a trend we're seeing among travelers in 2025. Fittingly, Dripping Springs Social has an entertainment barn with a projector; pool, poker, and shuffleboard tables; and a bar with a keg connection (guests must BYO). For those who want to balance their adventures with some relaxation, there's a heated swimming pool, hot tub, and a fire pit.
Paradise Valley, Arizona
If a getaway to a desert oasis is on your travel bucket list, consider Paradise Valley, Arizona. In close proximity to both Scottsdale and Phoenix, the celebrity-loved travel destination is known for its fine dining, luxury resorts, and a desert and mountainous landscape. "Designed with tranquility in mind," the Scottsdale Luxury Family Estate is one of the most popular local rentals, with a grotto-style pool, hot tub, private sports court, putting green, fire table, chef's style kitchen, and so much more.
Keep scrolling to see the Vrbo rentals of the year from 2024.
Sedona, Arizona
Planning a group vacation this year? Put the Palatial Paradise Estate at the top of your list. With sweeping views of the red rocks, an infinity pool, and telescopic doorways that create an outside-in environment, it's perfect for a group getaway to the desert. Its central location is ideal for popular Sedona activities like stargazing and winery-visiting, as well as hiking at the nearby Coconino National Forest trails.
St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
If a serene vacation surrounded by nature is more your speed, you'll want to book a trip to St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands — and stay at Villa Cin Cin. The idyllic island destination is only accessible by boat, and it boasts an endless stretch of lush greenery, crystal-clear ocean water, and a mountainous landscape. Take in the sights from the villa's infinity pool, balconies, or outdoor showers in each of its 5 bedrooms. Or, you can venture out mere steps away to a private sandy beach where you can swim with the sea turtles.
Big Sky, Montana
There's nothing quite like a cozy winter retreat and Fire Lookout Towers is the cabin of our cold-weather getaway dreams. The property, which sleeps 8 guests, features a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, a hot tub, and a wrap around balcony where you can take in panoramic views of the outdoors. What's more, it's just a 10-minute drive from the Big Sky resort, with its famed hiking trails and wildflower viewing spots.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
One of the hottest destinations across the globe, Cabo San Lucas is on every travel influencer's must-visit list for its white-sand beaches, desert landscapes, and vibrant nightlife. Casa Acantilado strikes the perfect balance; the villa is in the middle of the action in downtown Cabo San Lucas but far enough away that it feels peaceful and private. The amenities are endless: a sauna, hot tub, panoramic ocean view, and butler included.
Inlet Beach, Florida
For any group vacation — from a wedding to a family reunion — this Paradise Found oasis in Inlet Beach, Florida would be a dream to rent. With 7 bedrooms, catering to all ages from babies to seniors, the beachfront property is one of the most popular in the emerging vacation destination. The long list of amenities includes a salt-water, infinity-edge heated pool, a sun shelf, a hot tub, an outdoor kitchen, a 6-seater golf cart, 10 bikes, a beach wagon, and a Sonos sound system.
Winchendon, Massachusetts
Winchendon may not be top of mind when you think of all-year-round vacations, but it should be. Nestled on Lake Monomonac, between Massachusetts and New Hampshire, the town is ideal for all kinds of water activities from sailing to fishing. Copley's Lakefront Cottage is the perfect, charming lodging option with a private beach, floor-to-ceiling views of the lake, a sauna, an outdoor shower, and more.
Glen Ellen, California
Sonoma Valley needs no introduction; with its famed vineyards and rolling hills, it's a TikTok-friendly destination that welcomes an endless stream of tourists annually. But Villa Montebella takes the wine-country experience to a new level. The Italian-inspired, 5-bedroom rental feels plucked from a fairytale. Not only can guests enjoy a library, theater, steam room, sauna, game room, and a wine cave, they can also sip world-class Cabernet Sauvignon from the onsite vineyard and enjoy fresh produce from the farm.
Epworth, Georgia
Picture this: you're looking out over spectacular views of the river with a rushing creek below you and a lush forest surrounding you. That's an everyday occurrence at Epworth, Georgia's Miracle Creek Retreat, a 4-bedroom cabin in the town's Blue Ridge area. The aforementioned river views are complemented by spa-like showers, a decadent soaking tub, a game room, a wet bar, and so much more.
Sand Lake, Michigan
A basketball court, a hot tub, an outdoor shower, floor-to-ceiling windows: the Sandy Lakehouse in Sand Lake, Michigan has it all. Just a 30-minute drive from Grand Rapids, one of the top attractions in the country, this new hotspot has something for the adventure seeker, the relaxed traveler, and everyone in between.
Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas has a culture and personality all its own, and the tranquil Toro Canyon captures it brilliantly. Located right outside the city, it's a peaceful retreat with a secluded pool, hot tub, outdoor shower, and fire pit where guests can unwind. But the five-bedroom rental has some of Austin's signature quirk as well. Case in point? The in-ground trampoline just begging visitors to have a bit of playful fun right on the property.
Keep scrolling to see the Vrbo rentals of the year from 2023.
Rosemary Beach, FL
Add Rosemary Beach to your list of the best destinations for sand and sun. Alongside its idyllic, white-sand beaches, the quaint city offers delicious eateries and a lively town center. Consider staying at 30a My Way, a four-story beachfront chateau; it comes replete with a theater room, a game room, wet bars, an elevator, an outdoor pool, and a private beach boardwalk.
Victor, ID
Scroll through Travel TikTok, and the #CowboyCation hashtag will undoubtedly pop up on your feed. Vrbo reports that rustic vacations are enjoying a moment in the sun, as demand for homes in Western destinations increased more than 30 percent this year. Join the craze with a trip to Victor's Salmonfly Lodge, where you'll find a luxury cabin with floor-to-ceiling fireplaces and a fully stocked open kitchen — all surrounded by the stunning aspen trees in the Targhee National Forest valley.
Dripping Springs, TX
Dripping Springs is your new favorite travel destination. With a striking landscape, wineries galore, and natural wonders like the Hamilton Pool Preserve, there's so much to explore in the charming city, just 40 minutes outside of Austin. Stay at the Riverfront Hideaway, where you can see spectacular views of the countryside from the open-concept living space.
Manzanita, OR
Nature-lovers will enjoy every minute in Manzanita, a coastal city bordering the Pacific Ocean with breathtaking views of the Neahkahnie Mountain. For lodging, look no further than this modern architectural home with a spa whirlpool; a sun-drenched, open gourmet kitchen; and ocean views everywhere you turn.
Montauk, NY
Need a break from the city? Head over to Montauk for a luxurious beachside getaway, only two and a half hours outside of Manhattan. Take in the panoramic ocean views from inside this Nantucket-style home, with a heated infinity pool, a sunken hot tub, an art studio, and your own private movie theater.
Isle of Palms, SC
You'll fall in love with the sweeping coastline views in the Isle of Palms, a beach town located 30 minutes outside of Charleston. If you're planning a group trip, book Port of Call, an 11-bedroom oceanside mansion with every amenity you can dream of, from a fire pit and a private pool to a media room and an elevator.
Palm Springs
Just hours away from Los Angeles, Palm Springs is a desert oasis brimming with natural beauty. For a secluded getaway, travelers stay at this luxury estate just five minutes from the city's downtown area. Its top-of-the-line amenities include a heated pool, a jacuzzi, a private sauna and steam room, a waterfall tub, and a sunset-viewing (or star-gazing) pavilion. Adventure seekers can even go glamping in a vintage 1953 Silver Streak trailer located right on the property.
Phoenix, AZ
With its spectacular mountain views and serene desert landscape, Arizona continues to be one of the best travel destinations the country has to offer. Nestled in the base of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, the Happy Roadrunner private resort has a heated pool, a secluded spa, a mini-golf course, an outdoor pool table, and so much more.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
An ever-popular travel destination, Cabo San Lucas is celebrated for its idyllic beaches and lush tropical landscape. At Villa Nueva, you can experience it all in a stunning, secluded home with a private pool, a garden terrace, a chef, and in-house massages.
Winter Park, CO
If a ski trip is more your speed, plan a mountain getaway to Winter Park, lauded for its ski resorts and gorgeous alpine landscape. With a stay at the Instagram-famous Trestle House, you can enjoy breathtaking views from floor-to-ceiling windows, a luxury game room, a slope-side hot tub, and a gourmet kitchen. The best part? The home has ski-in, ski-out access that leads to the acclaimed Winter Park Resort.
Jessica C. Andrews (she/her) is the senior content director of shopping and UK at PS. With more than 15 years of experience, her areas of expertise include fashion, shopping, and travel. Prior to joining PS, Jessica held senior roles at Teen Vogue, Refinery29, and Bustle and contributed to The New York Times, Elle, Vanity Fair, and Essence. She's appeared on "Good Morning America," NBC, and Fox 5 New York and spoken on various panels about fashion, hair, and Black culture.
