When I plan a getaway with friends, I am all about the vibe: sun on the skin, laughter that lasts till the after-dance playlist, and a base that makes every day feel like a mini-holiday. Vacation rentals become the stage for our adventures, from sunrise swims to sunset strolls through markets, and a kitchen where we whip up easy meals after a day of exploring. If you’re hunting for the right place to stay, the search and stay mindset is simple: choose a destination, pick a home that fits the crew, and let the memories begin. This page dives into vacation rentals and holiday rentals destinations that spark the best kind of holiday experiences, with activities and local experiences that turn a trip into a story you’ll tell for years.
Destinations that shine for group getaways
Group trips thrive when the accommodation is more than a bed—when it’s a social hub, a private poolside perch, or a villa with a balcony big enough for a late-night movie session under the stars. Here are several holiday rentals destinations that consistently deliver on space, style, and scene, while staying wonderfully walkable to activities, dining, and day trips.
Algarve, Portugal: sunshine, sea, and villa life
Think terracotta rooftops peeking over sun-drenched terraces, white-washed walls framing turquoise pools, and evenings that drift from seaside tapas to clinking glasses on a rooftop bar. The Algarve is a coast-forward playground for friend groups who want days of beach hopping, cliff-top walks, and intimate dinners in seaside towns. Vacation rentals in Lagos, Albufeira, and Carvoeiro often offer spacious living areas, multiple bedrooms, and private gardens—perfect for mornings with coffee and plan-making, afternoons exploring hidden coves, and nights filled with laughter from a big dining table. For a true taste of the region, look for properties near Praia da Rocha or Praia do Amado for surf-ready days and dramatic Atlantic sunsets.
- Beach days at Praia do Rocha, Praia da Luz, and Benagil Cave boat trips
- Cliff-top hikes along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
- Tavernas and seafood nights in old-town districts
- Boat charters and coastal picnics with the crew
Costa del Sol, Spain: beaches, tapas, and vibrant nights
From glamorous Marbella to charming Nerja, the Costa del Sol is where beach glamour meets easygoing charm. Vacation rentals here range from modern beachfront apartments to hillside villas with panoramic sea views. The area’s natural parks, coastal promenades, and engaging nightlife create a balanced rhythm for a group that loves both activity and social evenings. Choose a property in Marbella’s Puerto Banús for chic energy, or inland towns like Mijas for white-washed lanes and affordable outdoor adventures. Holiday rentals destinations in this region often boast pools, balconies with sunset views, and kitchens ready for tapas nights and shared brunches after a morning of water sports.
- Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding along calm coves
- Day trips to Ronda or the Caminito del Rey for a dose of culture and adrenaline
- Mercado Central visits for fresh produce, cheeses, and wine tastings
- Sunset sailing along the Costa del Sol coast
Bali, Indonesia: rice terraces to beach clubs
Balinese villas and boutique villascluster around Ubud’s emerald rice fields or Seminyak’s chic beach culture, offering a mix of private pools, lush gardens, and open-plan living that invites conversation long after sunset. Holiday rentals destinations here are all about balance—quiet mornings with yoga and smoothie bowls, followed by day trips to waterfalls, temple visits, and late-night dinners by the sea. A well-chosen property in a central area makes it easy to bounce between markets, cafés, and calm spa days. Look for properties with multiple bedrooms, a spacious living area, and a private chef option if your group is craving a special night in without leaving the villa.
- Ubud sunrise treks and sacred monkey forest strolls
- Beach clubs in Seminyak and Canggu with daybeds and cocktails
- Rice terrace walks and temple tours in Tegalalang and Uluwatu
- Cooking classes featuring local flavors like sambal, sate, and nasi goreng
Dubrovnik, Croatia: ancient walls, crystal waters, and sunset sails
With marble streets, sea-facing balconies, and a coastline that gleams in the Adriatic light, Dubrovnik draws travelers who crave history, food, and easy island hopping. Vacation rentals in the Old Town or Lapad offer proximity to architectural wonders, markets, and ferries to nearby islands. A roomy apartment with a terrace is ideal for evening stories and post-adventure planning. The crystal-clear waters, boat tours to Lokrum, and cliff-diving spots near the coast provide adrenaline-pumped days, while a waterfront seafood dinner gives the group a taste of local life. Holiday rentals destinations here often blend classic design with modern amenities, ensuring every boho-chic moment is comfortable and social.
- City walls walk at sunrise, then a coffee on a quiet Kono staircase
- Boat trips to Lokrum Island and snorkeling in clear bays
- Fresh seafood dinners along the Old Town harbor
- Wine and olive oil tastings in nearby Pelješac or Konavle
Activities that shape the vacation rental experience
Choosing a vacation rental isn’t just about the bed count—it’s about the days you design around your crew. Look for properties with spaces that invite group cooking, board games, or late-night music, plus easy access to activities that create memories. Here are some activities that pair beautifully with a well-located holiday rental, turning a trip into a tapestry of shared moments.
Active days that feel effortless
Group hikes, bike rides along coastal paths, and water sports create a natural rhythm for the day. A vacation rental serves as a starting hub for early adventures and a post-activity rest stop where everyone can shower, refresh, and catch up on photos. If you’re near the coast, consider rental options with easy access to kayak or paddleboard rentals, then plan a sunset paddle to a hidden beach. Inland destinations pair outdoor adventures with hillside lunches and winery tours—two experiences that are easy to arrange from a comfortable, shared living space.
Culture and local flavor in bite-sized experiences
Food markets, cooking classes, and guided neighborhood walks reveal the heartbeat of a place. A well-situated vacation rental often means you can stroll to a farmers’ market, pick up fresh ingredients, and assemble a family-style feast back at the house. Add in a private cooking class or a guided tasting, and your group gets a balanced day of discovery and indulgence—without the hassle of a fixed dinner reservation for every meal.
Relaxation with a pinch of decadence
Pool days, spa afternoons, and sunset terraces transform a rental into a retreat. Look for homes with a private pool, shaded lounges, and outdoor dining areas where the wind wanders through the palms as you share stories from the day. A day is never wasted when it ends with a poolside cocktail or a roasting marshmallow session on the terrace as the sky shifts from pink to indigo.
Nightlife and social scenes without the stress
From rooftop bars to live-music districts, a well-chosen base keeps your group close to the action while still offering space to retreat when needed. A larger villa with a communal lounge and a dining table becomes the stage for pre-club meetups, playlist curation, and the occasional dance-off in the living room after a busy day exploring local nightlife.
Local experiences you can’t miss
Travel is about memory-making, and local experiences are the spark that makes memories stick. When you have a base in a vacation rental, you’re in the perfect position to book immersive experiences that feel intimate and special without breaking the budget. Here are some ideas that work well for groups and are easy to arrange through a trusted platform.
Market tours and culinary explorations
Guided market tours, followed by hands-on cooking sessions, let your group taste a place through its ingredients. You’ll chat with local vendors, learn about regional staples, and dine with your host or a local chef who helps you recreate classic dishes at the rental. It’s a cultural bridge that ends with shared plates and stories.
- Fruit markets, olive oil tastings, and regional cheeses
- Cooking classes featuring signature dishes of the destination
- Wine or craft-beer tastings with knowledgeable guides
Private tours and insider access
A flexible itinerary benefits from private or small-group tours that focus on hidden gems, offbeat neighborhoods, or sunset viewpoints. From exclusive museum hours to private boat charters or vineyard visits, limited-access experiences provide a sense of discovery without the crowds.
- Private boat trips to secluded coves or nearby islands
- Guided historical walks with local historians
- Sunset viewpoints and photo-sessions at iconic locations
Wellbeing and nature immersion
Wellbeing experiences, like morning yoga sessions in the garden, guided treks, or spa days, align perfectly with a vacation rental’s private spaces. If you’re near mountains or forests, plan a day of fresh-air exploration followed by a restorative afternoon in a tranquil garden or a poolside nap with a fruit-infused drink at hand.
What to look for in a vacation rental
Finding the right place means balancing space, location, and personality of the home. Here are the essentials to keep in mind as you browse vacation rentals and holiday rentals destinations with your friends.
- Capacity and sleeping arrangements: ensure there are enough bedrooms and bathrooms for comfort, plus flexible sleeping setups for couples, friends, and solo travelers.
- Common areas: a bright living room, dining space for the full crew, and a kitchen that invites shared cooking sessions.
- Outdoor space: a pool, terrace, or garden where everyone can mingle and unwind.
- Location and access: proximity to beaches, markets, nightlife, and transport links; walkability or easy ride access can shape the daily plan.
- Amenities and safety: strong Wi-Fi for remote work or streaming, reliable security, and convenient parking if needed.
- We’ll-stay-with friends factor: check for privacy in bedrooms, noise considerations, and a layout that allows both social time and downtime.
Planning with friends: practical tips that keep the mood high
Group trips benefit from clear communication and smart planning. A few practical practices help ensure everyone has a fantastic time, reduces friction, and protects the wallet for the full duration of the trip.
- Agree on a budget range for accommodations, meals, and activities so no one feels stretched or left out.
- Divide responsibilities: assign a trip lead, a dining captain, and a day-trip organizer to keep planning light and collaborative.
- Use a shared document or a planning app to track reservations, check-in times, and activity bookings.
- Plan a mix of group activities and free time to accommodate different energy levels and interests.
- Have a flexible backup plan for weather or last-minute changes so the group stays relaxed and adventurous.
How to find accommodations in the area with confidence
When you’re scouting for houses that fit a group and a vibe, a reliable platform makes all the difference. Look for clear photos, honest descriptions, and responsive hosts. A verified listing process helps ensure you’re not chasing phantoms, while filters save time by narrowing down results to your preferred location, dates, price range, and amenity requirements. For a smooth search and stay experience, start with a trusted site that aggregates vacation rentals and holiday rentals destinations across popular destinations, and then compare options side-by-side.
For travellers seeking options with straightforward booking, flexible cancellation policies, and user reviews from peers, consider using searchandstay.com. It’s designed to streamline the process of finding accommodations in the area, matching your group size to the right property, and surfacing details that matter most—like pool availability, private kitchens, and proximity to your planned activities. With searchandstay.com, you can filter by the number of bedrooms, beds, and bathrooms, ensuring the home you choose fits the crew and the itinerary.
Tips for optimizing your search:
- Use multi-bedroom listings with common spaces to maximize social time and privacy when needed.
- Filter for outdoor spaces and pools if you’re traveling with warm weather plans or late-night gatherings.
- Look for listings with parking or easy transport access if you’ll be moving between multiple day trips.
- Read guest reviews focusing on host responsiveness, cleanliness, and accuracy of the listing description.
A sample approach: 7 days in a dream destination
Here’s a flexible template you can adapt to your chosen locale. It’s designed to balance active days with downtime, while allowing room for spontaneous discoveries.
- Day 1: Arrival, settle in, welcome dinner at a local restaurant, and an evening stroll through a nearby neighborhood to soak up the first impressions of the area.
- Day 2: Beach morning, a casual lunch, and a guided sunset activity (sail, vantage point hike, or boat tour) followed by a relaxed night at the rental with a poolside playlist and a DIY dinner party.
- Day 3: Market visit and a cooking class; afternoon pool time; evening fusion dinner or a tasting tour in the city center.
- Day 4: Day trip to a nearby town or natural attraction; a late cafe stop and a small local craft shopping session.
- Day 5: Active day (hiking, water sports, or biking) with a relaxed recovery afternoon; sunset drinks on a terrace or beach club. <6>Day 6: Local experiences: a private tour or cultural workshop; group dinner at a renowned restaurant or a home-cooked feast in the rental. <7>Day 7: Free day for last-minute shopping, beach time, or a final stroll through a favorite neighborhood; pack and share memories over a farewell brunch.
Closing thoughts
Vacation rentals and holiday rentals destinations offer the flexibility, space, and atmosphere that make trips with friends unforgettable. When you pick a destination that suits your vibe and choose a home that doubles as a social hub, every day becomes a new chapter in your travel story. From poolside chats and shared meals to thrilling activities and cultural discoveries, the possibilities are wide open. If you’re ready to start planning, explore listings and book accommodations in the area on searchandstay.com to find the perfect match for your crew. Your next adventure is just a few clicks away—your best friends, your best memories, and your best stay all in one place.