This week’s roundup covers Vrbo’s top Southern beach spots, major rental crackdowns in Maui and B.C., Marriott’s new rain guarantee, and the rise of AI in vacation rentals.
According to Vrbo, 30A (FL), Wilmington (NC), Hilton Head (SC), and Gulf Shores (AL) are this summer’s most in-demand beach destinations in the U.S. South. 30A offers picturesque coastal towns and family-friendly activities, Wilmington is celebrated for its scenic beaches and vibrant local culture, Hilton Head combines golf and outdoor recreation with relaxation, and Gulf Shores draws visitors with its sugar-white sands and water sports. Vrbo recommends booking vacation homes at least two months in advance, though last-minute deals are still available.
Maui County’s Housing and Land Use Committee debated Bill 9, Mayor Richard Bissen’s proposal to phase out about 6,000 vacation rentals in apartment zones to address the local housing crisis, on June 9th. Emotional testimony from supporters emphasized housing shortages for residents, while opponents warned of severe economic impacts and legal issues. The hearing will resume on June 18.
Airbnb is canceling thousands of bookings in British Columbia, citing issues with the province’s new short-term rental registration system. The company blames technical glitches and is urging the government to delay the June 23 deadline, while officials insist the system is working and accuse Airbnb of political tactics.
Marriott Homes & Villas partnered with WeatherPromise to offer guests a unique “rain protection” guarantee on vacation rentals. Travelers selecting coverage receive automatic compensation if rainfall exceeds preset thresholds during their stay, without needing to file claims.
AI is quietly transforming the vacation rental industry, with tools like chatbots, smart pricing, and automated guest messaging improving efficiency. Though less than a third of property managers currently use AI, adoption is growing as more explore its potential for operations, personalization, and revenue management. We'll be sharing information about our AI assistant, Rezzy, next month and are thrilled to get it into the hands of as many OwnerRez users as possible!
As peak season unfolds, expect more shifts in regulation, technology, and traveler behavior. Check back next week for the latest in the evolving vacation rental landscape.
