As a vacation rental host, you know that first impressions count – and a lackluster entryway can leave a lasting negative impression on your guests (no pressure, right?).
Let’s take a look at some vacation rental entryway ideas that are both welcoming and functional and will communicate to your guests that you’re a Premier host right from the start.
Note: All content is our own (that is, not sponsored), but if you buy something through our links we may earn a commission.
An exceptional vacation rental entryway features (at least some) of these things:
A well-lit path
Chances are, your guests are arriving at your vacation rental tired and a little bit stressed out, don’t add “lost” to the list. Guide them with landscape lighting that illuminates their path to the door. It doesn’t have to be complicated, solar lights have come a long way and can add enough illumination for late arrivals and safe returns back from margarita-fueled evenings (they are on vacation, after all).
Entryway lights on a timer
Make sure no one arrives at a dark house by putting your entryway lights on a timer that turns on at sunset. Not only will it ensure that your guests can find their way in, but it also will prevent bad guys from knowing when the house is empty.
Doormats or outdoor rug
A doormat or outdoor rug is a great way to add some personality to your entryway while preventing your guests from traipsing dirt and grime into your rental. Choose one that vibes with your brand personality with a funny saying or welcoming message. It will make your guests smile when they get to your door and your housekeepers curse less when they see the state of the floors at checkout.
Keyless entry system
A keyless entry system adds convenience for your guests as they don’t need to worry about delays in getting access to the property, having to meet a property manager during business hours, or losing the keys. No more rushing to meet guests or worrying that they haven’t returned keys to a lockbox. Most keyless systems will allow you to assign multiple codes, and Wi-Fi-enabled alerts can tell you exactly who is going into your rental and when.
- Round Mirror. This acacia wood framed mirror looks great hanging over a console table and gives your guests a chance to check their lipstick before they head out.
- Coat Rack. Available in three finishes, this modern coat rack looks way more expensive than it actually is.
- Printable Poster. A cheeky, cheery way to greet your guests.
- Programmable Switch. Schedule your porch lights to come on at sunset without having to make your rental smart.
- Wicker Baskets (set of 2) that are a nice size to be used as a gift basket. Buying two at once will give you a backup if your guests decide to take the basket home, too (it happens).
- Mid-Mod Doormat. Proclaim the stylishness of your rental before they even walk in the door.
- Seagrass Basket. Makes a great planter and it’s well-priced.
- Faux Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree. Realistic faux plants used to be so expensive, but this guy looks great and it’s well under $100.
Welcome Message
A welcome message is a simple way to show your guests that you appreciate their visit. And if this is the first thing they see when they enter your vacation rental, you bet it will leave a lasting impression. Whether you choose to be humorous, inspiring, or just plain friendly, this small gesture will make your guests feel welcome.
Consider a framed message welcoming all, or personalize it with a chalkboard or letterboard designed to be part of your entryway decor.
Bench or Chair and Coat Rack
While making your entryway welcoming is essential, it’s equally important to make it functional. Be sure to think about what your guests will need when they first arrive. A bench or chair is ideal for guests to relax, remove their shoes, or set down their bags. They’ll also need a spot to hang their coats or hats, so adding a coat rack with a shelf above or even a few hooks will do the trick.
Umbrella Holder
While we’re at functionality, an umbrella holder is an essential addition to any vacation rental entryway, especially if it’s located where rain showers are frequent. On days when your guests venture out and get caught in the rain, they’ll be thankful for having a place to store their umbrellas at the entrance. Also, no more soggy umbrellas dripping on your carpets or furniture – cleaning mud stains off those things is no joy!
So, your guests have found your property, taken off their shoes, hung their jackets, and read the welcoming message written by a caring host – you. You’ve taken care of the essentials, but I want to share a few more vacation rental entryway accessories that will let your guests know they’re in for a treat.
Welcome Basket
Consider welcoming your guests with a beautifully arranged basket of goodies. It’s nice if it’s the first thing they see, but if there’s no room in your entryway, you can place it on a kitchen counter or dining table.
A welcome basket will let your guests know you care about their comfort and convenience, whether it’s snacks, local treats, or other practical amenities.
Mirror
Adding a mirror next to the door is practical for guests as they can check their appearance before heading out, but it also makes the space appear larger and brighter, reflecting all the vacation vibes you’re going for. Mirrors are one of our favorite interior design hacks for small vacation rentals!
Poop bags
Yes, you’ve read that right – poop bags. Not for your guests, obviously, but for their furry friends if you own a pet-friendly vacation rental. They’re a thoughtful gesture for the pet owners and a not-so-subtle reminder of the rules for dogs.
Greenery and flowers
Greenery and flowers are a low-maintenance way to add a pop of color and natural beauty to any room – especially if they’re fake. A potted plant, branches, or a vase of flowers add a sense of arrival to your entry, as well as some life and vitality.
Subtle scents
A minimal, fresh fragrance is an excellent way to create a pleasant ambiance inside the rental property and give it that just-cleaned effect. Consider adding essential oil diffusers with calming scents or woody fragrances for a fresh first impression, or lightly spraying drapes with linen spray the morning of check in.
Decor
Imagine your entryway is like the trailer for the vacation movie that your guests are about to watch. Give them a glimpse of what’s in store with a few decor pieces that reflect your style and give the place a character. Hang art, accessorize with unique pieces, or add some seasonal decor to your entryway. These are small but effective touches that can really make a difference for your guests.
Need some seasonal decor ideas? Check out this post for cozy fall decor ideas, or this one to add some winter charm to your vacation rental.
Tourist Information
Help your guests by providing a basket or binder with essential tourist information such as maps, brochures, or contact details for local attractions and restaurants. Leaving the map at home is just as inconvenient as forgetting poop bags, so placing those items in your vacation rental entryway will let your guests know you’re truly thinking about them.
Now that you have some fantastic ideas for your vacation rental entryway, it’s time to put them into action. Remember, your entryway is the first impression your guests will have of your property, so make it count!
