If you’re reading this, chances are high that you’re going to be a wedding guest this year, you’re an honorary member of the bride and groom’s entourage, or excitingly enough — you’re starting the decade right by planning your very own special day with that special someone!
Before the bride and groom turn heads at the end of the aisle and exchange tear-jerking vows, it’s time to celebrate with an all-star lineup of bachelors or bachelorettes. Why not consider a low-key getaway with your closest comrades? While Hollywood romanticizes wild bachelor and bachelorette parties in Vegas, we’re here to remind you that there are many other options that offer more privacy, exclusivity, and bang for your buck. Not to mention, you can use it as an excuse to travel somewhere you and your friends have never been before.
For starters, check out these four gorgeous Californian cities, perfect for a bachelor or bachelorette trip during any time of year. All four destinations offer a handful of things to do, and we even picked out one spacious vacation rental in each city where you can squeeze in a few more epic memories before the bride and groom tie the knot.
Palm Springs
Located in the Coachella Valley desert region, Palm Springs is a wonderful destination for a low-key vacation with your groomsmen or bridesmaids. You can attend a pool party at the Ace Hotel and Swim Club, reserve a poolside cabana at The Saguaro, or treat yourselves to a relaxing spa day at one of the many resorts throughout Palm Springs.
One of the best things about Palm Springs is that the weather stays around the 70’s even in the winter, so you can take a dip in your vacation rental’s private pool all year-round. Take a peek at this delightful option for a desert getaway with your favorite wedding guests.
Where to Stay in Palm Springs: The Butterfly Home
Just a mile away from the center of the city, The Butterfly Home is a modern gem that sleeps up to eight people. It’s within walking distance from the Avalon Hotel, where you will find the lovely Estrella Spa.
The property is gated and walled for privacy, with a hardwood deck to sunbathe on, an infinity edge pool, and a jacuzzi.
Newly built in 2009, the home’s interior is stylish, clean, and very Instagram-worthy. The common area offers dining table seating and bar seating to accommodate everyone.
This four bedroom home includes a detached casita with its own private entrance and bathroom, designed as a second master bedroom.
Ready to send off the bride or groom in Palm Springs? Find the right vacation rental for your trip.
Santa Barbara
Known as both a beach town and a college town, Santa Barbara is optimal for groups who want to spend all day at the beach, then get a taste of nightlife after sunset. Speaking of sunsets, the best place to watch the daylight fade into the ocean is Butterfly Beach. Other great beaches in the area include the dog-friendly Summerland Beach and Refugio State Beach, where you can camp under the stars.
Close to the beaches is the Funk Zone, where you’ll find a handful of tasting rooms, galleries, and restaurants. Bachelor(ette) bar crawl, anyone? Stop by Casa Blanca to enjoy tacos and margaritas on the outdoor patio during happy hour. Outpost also offers a special craft cocktail selection to quench your thirst. Then, plan a few festive DIY games to play inside this luxurious vacation rental.
Where to Stay in Santa Barbara: Beach Front View Home
If you’re looking for a coastal escape with incredible views, look no further. You’ll find this home in a quaint little neighborhood along the beach. It sleeps ten people comfortably with three spacious bedrooms.
As you walk into the living room, you’ll notice that the space gives off major 1950’s vibes. Check out that incredible chimney!
This Santa Barbara rental is propped right along Butterfly Beach, so catching sunset from the home’s wrap-around balcony gives you the best VIP seats in the house.
With the entire property occupying almost half an acre, there’s plenty of space for activities!
Celebrate the single life in Santa Barbara with an extraordinary property from VacationRenter.
Napa Valley
Onto our next destination for the bride and groom squad: the world renowned Napa Valley. It’s no secret that Napa has an extensive list of tasting rooms to try, including the grand property known as Opus One and Hollywood mogul Francis Ford Coppola’s very own vineyard, so once you’ve found the right winery for your party, it’s time to plan the rest of your trip to Wine Country. Take your bachelor or bachelorette celebration to the next level — literally — with a private hot air balloon ride over the vineyards.
You’ll also want to make sure you have all your bases covered, meaning you’re going to need a designated driver. Consider renting a party bus with a professional chauffeur, or check out the Napa Valley Wine Train. At the end of the day, you can take home some bottles of wine and unwind in a palatial estate like this one below.
Where to Stay in Napa Valley: Opulent 7-Acre Estate
To get the complete Wine Country experience, check out this seven-acre property, surrounded by a private vineyard that supplies grapes for Scribe Winery less than ten minutes away. This home is also within close distance to the majestic Domaine Carneros, a winery inspired by Château de la Marquetterie in Champagne, France.
This estate accommodates up to 14 guests, with a 60-foot private pool, an outdoor BBQ, and a sub zero refrigerator to keep your drinks at an optimal refreshing temperature.
Inside, you’ll find plenty of space to lounge around, a pool table, and a fully equipped kitchen.
The property also features outdoor seating, which would be perfect for a themed lunch or dinner to celebrate the bride or groom.
South Lake Tahoe
Last, but certainly not least, we’re headed all the way up north to the border of California and Nevada to find the perfect cabin in South Lake Tahoe. No matter what time of year you visit this region, you won’t fall short of activities that your whole party will enjoy. It is good to note, though, that Lake Tahoe in the summertime versus the winter months seem like two completely different, yet equally breathtaking places!
In the summer, you can buy matching swimming attire for all the bachelors or bachelorettes and enjoy a booze cruise on the lake, or take advantage of all the water sports activities under the sun. In the winter, everyone will love a ski trip to one of Tahoe’s many resorts, including Heavenly Ski Resort and Sierra-At-Tahoe. But during any time of year, you can always hit up the South Shore Brewery Tour or test your luck at the casinos. Above all, the most important part is to find a cabin with incredible amenities, and we’ve got you covered.
Where to Stay in South Lake Tahoe: 5 Bedroom with Indoor Heated Pool
This mountain retreat is about 10 minutes away from Heavenly Ski Resort and the big blue lake itself. 14 guests can get cozy in this spacious cabin, with five bedrooms and five bathrooms.
There’s plenty of space to gather around, sip on the bride or groom’s favorite cocktails, and just hang out.
No matter what season it is, you can enjoy the privacy of an indoor heated pool and an outdoor hot tub.
The loft leads to a pool table up top, for some friendly competition and fun.
Find more affordable South Lake Tahoe rentals that can accommodate all your whole crew!