2026 Vacation Rentals of the Year

Vrbo’s Vacation Rentals of the Year represent the finest vacation rentals and hosts across the country and around the world. For the fifth year in a row, Vrbo has meticulously selected the most outstanding vacation rentals based on criteria that exemplify quality stays and give guests the confidence to book their next trip.

This year’s Vacation Rentals of the Year have earned the “Loved by Guest” badge, achieved high ratings and reviews, and many of them are managed by Premier Hosts – dedicated, reliable hosts who consistently delight their guests. These vacation rentals also feature the most-coveted amenities that families or groups of friends can enjoy on their next beach vacation or long weekend in the mountains.

The 2026 Vacation Rentals of the Year feature a variety of accommodation styles across the most popular U.S. vacation destinations. The collection spotlights stunning beachfront houses, cozy ski retreats, architectural standouts, and even a converted fire station — each offering the perfect space for quality time with loved ones.

Whether you’re planning a multi-generational family vacation, getaway with close friends, or a last-minute weekend escape – the 2026 Vacation Rentals of the Year will inspire you to book your next trip.

"The most important thing about making people feel special is giving them 100% of my attention, which is my goal every day. Their stay is completely my responsibility. I thoroughly enjoy meeting people and introducing those who have never been to Charleston to a town I know and love."

Elizabeth Johnson, Vrbo Premier Host

"I love the feeling of helping others have an enjoyable experience or event. Most [guests] are great to work with and have a common goal of having a great vacation and taking care of your property. I would predict that most owners who host for any length of time enjoy these relationships, even if temporary."

George Wakefield, Vrbo Premier Host

"I love the reviews where you can really tell that the guests ‘let it all go,’ truly relaxed, and had a good time. There is a special magic in Hanalei, and when guests tap into that magic and fully unwind, then we know we’ve done our job."

Greg Pronko, Vrbo Premier Host

"I absolutely love reading the reviews. I make memories for other families. That’s what I love the most. I want to create memories for others to cherish forever. Bringing joy and happiness to families is what I love."

Anthony Schoen

"We see hosting as a responsibility: to care for our guests like family, to be great stewards of the homes we manage, and to positively contribute to our local desert communities. Watching guests arrive, exhale, and immediately start ‘living’ in the house—cooking together, playing, laughing—that’s what keeps us inspired. For us, being a Premier Host isn’t just about great reviews—it’s about showing up for people when it matters most and ensuring every guest feels valued, supported, and genuinely cared for."

Jen and Spencer Wampole of TRAVLR Vacation Homes, Vrbo Premier Host

"Our journey into vacation rentals started with a love for this land and a desire to share it. Once we welcomed our first guests and saw how much joy and relaxation a getaway could bring, hosting became more than a business - it became something we genuinely love."

Tanya and Mike Brennan

"We believe travel and time with family and friends is fundamental to the well-being of the individual and essential to the greater good of society. We love being able to provide guests with accommodations in their favorite destinations where they can make new memories and start new traditions."

360Blue, Vrbo Premier Hosts

"Our family has a passion for the restoration of historic properties and bringing them back to life again. The Firehouse has always been a property that the Wilmington community loved but was previously occupied by an office user for 14 years. When we took the building over we felt a commitment to create a space where everyone could enjoy the property."

Terry Epsy, Vrbo Premier Host

"My guests know that if they book with me, I will help them travel, eat and play just like a local. I give them an agenda, ask about what they’d like to see as a part of their booking, and what their goals are for the trip."

Monica O’Neill, Vrbo Premier Host

FAQ

How are the 2026 Vacation Rentals of the Year chosen?

Selected from over 2 million Vrbo listings, these properties represent standout vacation rentals for travelers seeking space, privacy, and reliable hosts. Vrbo used the following criteria to determine this year’s list of Vacation Rentals of the Year:

1. Loved by Guests: This badge means the property is in the top 10% of vacation rentals in its destination.
2. Exceptional Guest Ratings and Reviews: Dozens of positive reviews from former guests and 10/10 ratings
3. Premier Host status: Vrbo hosts with a consistent track record of earning excellent reviews and providing outstanding experiences for their guests
4. Popular Amenities ideal for group travel: Features guests value most such as private pools, hot tubs, game rooms, ski-in/ski-out access, outdoor living spaces, and ample space for gathering.

What is the “Loved by Guests” badge?

The “Loved by Guests” badge indicates top-rated, quality listings on Vrbo. This badge is given to listings with 9.4+ ratings for cleanliness, location, listing accuracy, and ease of check-in. Travelers can use the “Loved by Guests” filter to find these properties in their searches.

What is a Premier Host?

Premier Hosts are experienced Vrbo hosts with a strong track record of earning excellent reviews and providing outstanding experiences for guests. To earn Premier Host status on Vrbo, properties must earn a 9.2+ overall review rating, have a booking acceptance rate of 99% or higher, zero host-initiated cancellations, at least 5 bookings or 60 booked nights, and at least 5 Vrbo reviews. Travelers can use the “Premier Host” filter to find these properties in their searches.

What do the Vacation Rentals of the Year have in common?

Though no two Vacation Rentals of the Year are alike and each has their own unique story and attributes, quality, consistency, and reliability are what earn guests’ trust and positive feedback. Every property enables groups to spend time together without giving up comfort. The standout rentals are located in Vrbo’s most popular leisure destinations and feature with ‘stay-here-all-day’ amenities like pools, hot tubs, and game rooms. Just as important: strong guest reviews and reliable hosting continue to be a big part of what helps people book with confidence.

How do I book a top-rated vacation rental on Vrbo?

The 2026 Vacation Rentals of the Year exemplify the best-of-the-best properties available to book on Vrbo. It’s incredibly easy to find other standout homes for your next group getaway with family or friends. Use the “Loved by Guests”, “Premier Host” and “Wonderful 9+” filters to narrow your search to the highest-quality, trusted stays. Then, consider the amenities most important to you and your family. Vrbo has dozens of filters where you can easily search for vacation rentals with private pools, ski-in/ski-out access, or beachfront or oceanfront locations, as well as homes that are pet-friendly or great for families.

Why should I book a vacation rental with Vrbo?

Vrbo provides travelers with one of the widest selections of vacation rental homes in the U.S. and around the world. With Vrbo, guests can expect quality stays, trusted reviews, transparent pricing, and booking protections. Additionally, Vrbo is the ideal accommodation choice when traveling with groups – whether you’re going on a multi-generational family vacation or a weekend getaway with friends. Vrbo vacation rentals offer the space and privacy for everyone to stay together and spend quality time. Vrbo vacation rentals also have convenient family-friendly and pet-friendly amenities you may not get during a hotel stay, like a full kitchen to cook and prepare meals or washers and dryers for doing laundry.