If you are a landlord of a luxury vacation rental in prime location such as Oceanside, Encinitas, or other coastal location close to San Diego, you are probably aware how important the amenities you offer are. They are the defining factor whether your top-tier guests will stay at your property again or not. For elite guests, exclusive perks encourage them to return for their next vacation, which helps keep your occupancy rate stable, ensures a steady flow of income, and facilitates excellent reviews.
In order to meet high demands of luxury guests you have to personalize their experience and provide premium features they don’t have at home. Most guests are looking to ‘live like a local’, meaning they want to indulge in the authentic local culture and daily life while enjoying luxury accommodation with personalized services.
Guide to Essential Luxury Amenities to Impress High-End Vacation Rental Guests
The key is to understand your guests’ demands and identify their expectations even before they arrive. That way you will be able to accommodate their needs and offer them premium stay, tailored according to their unique preferences. To help you out, we have created a list of most sought-after luxury amenities that renters are looking for.
The list includes things like automated check-in, gaming area, office supplies, custom-stocked fridge, private pool, and many others. And while some of them require significant initial investments, others are easily affordable. If you follow the tips from this article you will be able to provide your upscale guests with the right amenities, thus boosting your rental business and earning more revenue.
Swell Property: Helping Landlords Delight Their Vacation Rental Clientele Since 2004
Swell Property is a full-service San Diego vacation rental property management company serving landlords and their guests in the coastal area, including Oceanside, Encinitas, Carlsbad, La Jolla, Del Mar, and other desirable locations. Since 2004, we have been assisting short-term rental owners in responding to their tenants’ unique needs and creating exclusive personalized experiences, making them feel valued and understood. By providing tailored support and bespoke service our devoted managers help landlords of luxury vacation rentals achieve the highest possible ROI on their real estate investment and build a strong reputation for excellence and reliability. With portfolio valued at over $100 million dollars, our boutique agency has experience in managing all types of high-end real estate, including luxury beach houses, stylish lofts, upscale penthouses, exclusive villas, lavish mansions, and similar deluxe short-term property types. Our comprehensive management services for luxury vacation rentals include all daily responsibilities of running an high-end property such as concierge services, superior customer support, professional housekeeping, advertising, maintenance, tenant placement, rent collection, and others. Contact us today on (760) 452-2345 and let us help you provide impeccable service and memorable stay for your guests.
The Importance of Positive Guest Experience
If you are running a luxury vacation rental business, positive guest experience is crucial because happy guests are your strongest advocates. 5-star reviews and personal recommendations to family and friends will encourage new clients to book your accommodation. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to improve guest experience. Think of exclusive perks, curated experiences, personalized touches, stellar customer service, smart technology integration, and other luxury amenities people love to indulge in.
Guest experience is important because it can help you set a precedent and impact your business in multiple ways:
- Stabilized occupancy is achieved by customer loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals.
- Positive brand reputation is facilitated by positive guest reviews.
- Increased revenue, as clients are inclined to pay more money for great experiences.
- Outperforming the competition by offering exclusive perks.
- Revenue growth is accomplished by increased demandfor your property.
What Do Luxury Guests Want: Most Wanted Luxury Amenities
Investing in luxury rental property in coastal San Diego has fantastic potential for growth, as desirable destinations along the stunning Pacific coastline appeal to clients looking for value and unique experiences. Ideal climate, pristine beaches, upscale shopping, high-end dining, world-class attractions, and top-rated golfing are all reasons why many travelers want to book a stay in this area. However, although huge potential is there, many landlords are struggling to find and retain clients because the competition is fierce.
If you are one of the owners who is looking for ways to attract and retain affluent and luxury travelers, you should start by offering premium amenities. They are an easy way to attract vacationers willing to pay more for special treatment and personalized services.
Below, we are listing most demanded luxury amenities, grouped into categories, which will wow your guests, help youearn positive reviews, and give you a competitive edge.
Self-check-in
Automated and keyless entry is so desired among guests that it is becoming standard. Travelers want flexibility, privacy and no interaction with people upon arrival, which is why you should provide automated check in option. As an extra layer of protection, keyless entry helps guests have peace of mind and feel at ease.
- Keyless entry systems – Install lockboxes or smart locks which allow for quick and simple access to the premises (one-touch locking).
- Smart lock types – There are various options on the market, from keypad, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, to RFID and voice controlled
- Integrate the lock into the security system
- Provide clear instructions for use – Either send them before arrival or include in welcome kit
- Have a backup plan in case of technical issues
Personalized welcome gift
Impress your guest right at their arrival by offering a complimentary gift suited to their preferences and interests. To better personalize welcome basket, ask your tenants who they are travelling with and what is the purpose of their stay. Adopt a habit to send out a questionnaire to the guests a few days before arrival to give you enough time to prepare a perfect welcome basket.
- For romantic gateway – Chocolates, fresh fruit, Champagne.
- For a group of friends – Local snacks and beverages.
- For families – Include fruit, fresh baked pastries and local produce.
- For business travelers – Personalized wine bottle, notebook, a calendar.
Luxury modern technology
Incorporating high technology into your rental property is something renters are already expecting. Vacationers want connectivity and convenience and things like complimentary Wi-Fi is expected. This is something every landlord is offering, so you have to distinguish yourself form others by making your guests feel special. And here are a few ways to do it:
- Electronic access to property and garage.
- USB outlets – Popular spots to install these hybrid outlets are above kitchen counter, bedsides, by the side tables in living room.
- Antennas for better cell reception – Having devices that amplify the cell phone signal will certainly improve your guests’ stay, especially if they are staying here for business and need to remain available for calls.
- Smart speakers and voice assistant –
- Install mesh routers – They enable strong and reliable Wi-Fi network all around the property, without dead spots.
- Smart lights – Use LED lights to save energy and reduce carbon footprint.
- Smart thermostats – Most models can be integrated with smart speakers.
Luxury entertainment amenities
Luxury entertainment amenity ideas for modern day guests include:
- Rooftop lounge – Rooftop deck with gorgeous views, lounge seating, or even rooftop pool.
- Home theater – A projector, surround sound system, reclined seating with cup holders, swivel trays, popcorn machine, and USB ports
- Universal remote controller – Use one device to control everything in the room (light, sound, projector, tv, other devices, etc. )
- Streaming sticks – Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+
- Game consoles and games – X-Box, Play Station, Nintendo, Wii, pinball, etc.
- Board games – Offer all-time popular games such as chess, checkers, Scrabble and Monopoly, but also new arrivals like Scythe, Small World, Catan, or Mysterium.
- Billiards area – If you have enough space, provide the guests with stylish room to play billiards with family and friends.
- Black out curtains – You can even install motorized curtains that can be controlled by a smart phone app.
- Bass seat shakers – You can go a step further by installing seat shakers that react to audio signals and bring the entertainment experience of a movie, game, or music to a whole new level.
Eco-friendly amenity ideas
Contribute to the wellbeing of your guests and the planet, by investing in eco-friendly products. When shopping for the supplies, choose items that are labeled as plastic-free, cruelty-free, non-toxic, recyclable, BPA free, biodegradable, sustainable, zero-waste, eco-friendly, environmentally-friendly, or renewable. According to recent studies, the largest age group staying in holiday short-term rentals are the travelers between 25 and 45 years old, also known as Millennials and younger Generation X. They make up over 50% of total US renters and are known to be very eco-conscious. These individuals have strong environmental values, and are always looking for ways to reduce their personal footprint by engaging in eco-friendly practices.
Eco-friendly amenity ideas
Contribute to the wellbeing of your guests and the planet, by investing in eco-friendly products. When shopping for the supplies, choose items that are labeled as plastic-free, cruelty-free, non-toxic, recyclable, BPA free, biodegradable, sustainable, zero-waste, eco-friendly, environmentally-friendly, or renewable. According to recent studies, the largest age group staying in holiday short-term rentals are the travelers between 25 and 45 years old, also known as Millennials and younger Generation X. They make up over 50% of total US renters and are known to be very eco-conscious. These individuals have strong environmental values, and are always looking for ways to reduce their personal footprint by engaging in eco-friendly practices.
- Energy star appliances – boilers, central A/C, washers, dryers, electric cooking,freezers, refrigerators, dishwashers, etc.
- Premium, biodegradable personal care products – Supply your home with natural, hypoallergenic products that are safe for your guests and the environment.
- Eco-friendly home care products – Use biodegradable cleaning products with non-toxic ingredients and natural laundry detergents that are safe for the environment
- Ethical & sustainable home decor – Furniture made from recycled materials, organic cotton home textiles, recycled stationery,solar power, eco-friendly paint or wallpapers, etc.
Upscale bedroom features
Bedroom is top priority for guests, as this is the place where they rest and recharge. In fact, a comfortable bedroom is the single most important factor that impacts the overall experience of the entire stay. For this reason, you should consider offering upscale bedroom amenities which will allow your tenants have good sleep and much needed privacy.
- Quality bedding and pillows – Supply extra comfortable pillows and bedding, high-thread-count sheets, extra pillows, etc.
- Sleeping accessories – Supplies such as blackout curtains, herbal tea, sleep masks, and earplugs will provide the guests with a hotel-like experience.
- Bedside outlets – Sockets or USB outlets near the beds are standard.
- Walk-in closet – Large mirrors, vanities, closet island, shoe shelving, a bench, jewelry table.
High-end kitchen amenities
Show your tenants that you go the extra mile by equipping the kitchen with upscale amenities. Kitchen is the heart of the house and a place where people prepare, eat, and socialize. As a host, you can ensure they have great memories of your kitchen space by providing the following:
- Fully stocked gourmet kitchen – Based on eating restrictions and preferences, stock up the fridge with ingredients and food that suit their taste buds.
- State–of-the-art appliances – High-end stovetop, Wi-Fi enabled dishwasher, or smart fridge.
- Premium small kitchen appliances – Espresso machine, Vitamix blender, air fryer, and ice maker.
- Top of the line design – Quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, durable flooring, and functional lighting.
- Quality dishes, utensils, and plates
- Premium, non-toxic cleaning supplies
5-star bathroom amenities
A bathroom is considered very important to travelers who rent holiday homes and apartments, because it can dramatically improve guest satisfaction and help you earn positive reviews. Bathroom is one of the key areas where landlords like you can use the opportunity to show how your rental stands out from the rest. Offering a lavish, spa-like retreat will make your guests feel special and well cared for.
- Luxury toiletries – Pick natural, green products free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and artificial colors. They are gentle on skin, hypoallergenic, and align with guests’ environmental beliefs. Provide eco-friendly soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, disposable razors, shaving cream, etc.
- High-end spa items – Take it up a notch by supplying the guests with luxe spa products like face masks, aromatherapy bath bombs, bubble bars, nail files, essential oil diffuser, candles, top-brand hairdryer, etc.
- Fluffy towels and bath mats – Guests expect an assortment of thick and soft towels of premium quality. Provide face towels, hand towels, bathrobes, and also slippers.
- Functioning upscale fixtures – first-class faucets, high-end standalone bathtub, whirlpool jacuzzi with waterfall and air jet massage functions and ambient lighting, double sinks, custom vanity, luxury light fixtures, grab rails, ceiling rainfall showerhead with integrated LED lights, etc.
- De luxe hair styling appliances – Choose top-brand hairdryer, flat iron hair straightener, and curler.
- Heated floors – if you are planning to remodel the bathroom, invest in heated floors for maximum comfort and relaxation.
- First-aid kit – Add a first-aid kit with all the essentials.
Sports & fitness extras
Providing designated places for sports and exercise that can be used at any time of day is part of upscale lifestyle and adds value to your clients’ stay. It will attract health-conscious renters who care about the wellbeing. Here are a few ideas for you to consider:
- Home gym – rubber flooring, sound system, storage, mirrors on walls, large screen TV, whiteboard for taking notes or writing the schedule, a fridge stocked with protein drinks, protein bars, water filtering systems.
- State-of-the-art fitness equipment – Workout mats, dumbbell set, kettlebells, pull up bar, resistance bands, treadmill, exercise bike.
- Dedicated space for yoga or Pilates – mats and props that promote peacefulness and mindfulness.
- Golf simulator
Premium concierge
With premium concierge services you are making your short-term rental even more luxurious and desirable because you are offering genuine guest experience. Concierge involves appointing a dedicated representative for your VIP customers who will recognize and address their needs.
- Organize airport transfers – Arrange airport transportation for your clients with local car service provider.
- Answer tenants’ inquiries – By being available and promptly responding to your customers’ questions you show the highest level of customer care.
- Provide vital information – Provide recommendations on local events, restaurants, entertainment venues, transportation, etc.
- Grocery delivery – Offer grocery shopping services to maximize your guests’ convenience. Pre-arrival grocery delivery is one of the top-requested amenities.
- Extra services – Your tenants will appreciate the fact that you can offer them extra services such as laundry, private chef, personal trainer, masseuse, party assistant, in-home bartender, or a private driver.
Kid-friendly amenities
If you are expecting a family with children, you should provide adequate child-friendly amenities which will make their stay at your place as pleasant and as convenient as possible. Whenever you can, opt for highest safety standards. Parents travelling with children will appreciate these amenities and will be inclined to book a stay with you again.
- Prep the inside and the outside of your unit – Provide baby-proof equipment and gates if necessary. Secure cleaning supplies and chemicals storage.
- Provide high quality baby gear – Offer things like portable crib, pack n play, high chair, a stroller, a changing table, diaper pail, stepstool, kid-friendly dinnerware.
- As a precaution, inform the guests to bring their own washing supplies – This way the risk of allergic reactions or asthma will be minimized. This type of information should be included in the check-in instructions booklet.
- Sleeping equipment – To help kids sleep, equip your place with the following: sound machine, cordless blackout curtains, night lights, baby reflux sleeper
- Toys & games – Toys, board games, puzzles, playing cards, books, gaming consoles.
Pets
Don’t forget that there is around 90 million households with pet in the US, and around 70 million pet owners travel with their favorite animal. This is a huge potential client pool, and any of these guests would appreciate luxe pet-friendly amenities which make their holiday easier and more convenient.
- Dedicated pet space – Create a designated nook for pets.
- Top-grade pet essentials – Purifying water fountains, food bowls made of safe materials, litter boxes, gated yards, built-in feeding system, or dog washing station.
- Play & activity – Scratching posts, safe toys, automatic ball launcher, cat running wheel, toys that foster good health and fitness of pets.
Lavish home office
Many of today’s luxury travelers are digital nomads. They are well earning professionals who want to travel while they work, which is why they are looking for homes with well-equipped office they can use for work. By giving them a dedicated space where they can be productive, you are increasing the chances of them coming back or recommending you to their acquaintances and friends.
- Top-quality, ergonomic furniture – Choose natural durable materials such as wood, leather, organic cotton, glass, ceramics, or stainless steel.
- Extra power outlets – They come in handy when your guests need to charge all their work devices (tablets, printers, smart phones, laptops, etc.)
- Office supplies – Choose responsibly sourced and ethical products that are stylish and eco-friendly.
Outdoor area
With moderate climate year-round, there’s no doubt the guests will not spend all day inside, which is why you should maintain outdoor amenities, too.
- Outdoor furniture – Furnish the deck, patio, porch, or lawn with stylish chairs, sofas, ottomans, tables, rugs, and similar patio pieces. You can even create an luxurious outdoor kitchen or outdoor living room.
- Sun protection – Install patio umbrellas, awnings, gazebos, or plant tall trees to keep your guests safe from rays.
- Swimming pool – Swimming pools (infinity, heated, saltwater) have always been a symbol of luxurious living, so appeal to your preferred type of tenants by offering these highly-sought-after relaxation amenity.
- Barbeque supplies – High-grade grill, outdoor kitchen, premium kitchen utensils, outdoor ovens.
- Beach or outdoor equipment – Various types of balls, game equipment, a cooler, a swing, a small slide for the youngest elite visitors, and chaise lounges.
Additional Luxury Holiday Rental Amenities
Finally, if you want to go the extra mile, consider additional upscale amenities your guests would genuinely appreciate, such as:
- In-home childcare
- On-demand house cleaning and daily turndown
- In-house spa and wellness – steam room, sauna, hot tub, indoor fireplace
- Unique décor, high-quality furnishings, and opulent architectural elements
- Fireplaces & firepits
Final Notes
In conclusion, offering luxury amenities helps your property stand out from the competition and helps you attract loyal, high-paying clientele who will rent your holiday home and keep your retention rates high and vacancies low. When you have these parameters under control, you are able to yield maximum revenues and ensure long-term success in the market. For professional advice and services about luxurious vacation rental amenities, contact boutique-style property management agency – Swell Property directly on (760) 452-2345.
Read Other Articles on Improving Guest Stay:
- Vacation Rental Amenities That Will Wow Your Guests & Boost Your Host Status in San Diego
- Vacation Rentals in San Diego: How to Enhance Guest Experience
- Unlock Success in San Diego’s Thriving Vacation Rental Market: Expert Tips from Rental Managers
- Short-Term Rental Tips for Owners in Carlsbad: Host Like a Pro
- Vacation Rental Security Tips For Owners
- Is Adding a Pool to Your Vacation Rental Worth It? Find Out!
About the Author
David Miller is Real Estate Advisor at Swell Property. Whether you’re eyeing a new home, an investment property, securing the best mortgage, or aiming to enhance your property’s value, my focus is on providing personalized guidance and strategy for your success. I listen to your needs attentively, ensuring that my expertise aligns perfectly with your real estate goals. My clients’ satisfaction and referrals are the true measure of my success in San Diego’s dynamic real estate market. If you’re searching for a real estate professional who’s deeply committed to your success, I’m eager to demonstrate my expertise and win your trust. Let’s connect and start this journey together.
