Labor Day is fast approaching, with many Americans looking to pack up for the long weekend and soak up the final days of summer. But, as travelers aim to squeeze in one last trip, destinations are filling up fast—and not just for the three-day weekend. This year, Vacasa bookings for four or more nights over the holiday are pacing up compared to 2019.
How are people planning to pass the days during these extended stays? Clearly, with a dip in the water. The most popular spots for Labor Day weekend all have waterfront appeal, with the Outer Banks, North Carolina; Lake Anna, Virginia; Bethany Beach, Delaware; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina topping the list for this year’s most booked-up destinations.
It’s clear people were planning ahead, too. As of early August, Vacasa’s median booking window—or how far in advance guests are making reservations—for Labor Day weekend increased more than 30% compared to 2019.
But, enough about the guests who did book early—you’re here to find a last-minute getaway with swoon-worthy vacation rentals, right? Look no further. We saved you the labor (wink, wink) and combed through Vacasa reservation data to uncover four destinations that still have ample availability for a holiday stay. Plus, all four spots are accessible by car from major metro areas and perfect for a long weekend enjoying the great outdoors—two features the CDC recommends for safer travel.
Whether you’re traveling with kids or reuniting with old friends, these prime mountain, beach and desert vacation destinations are ready for your Labor Day escape.
Note: When traveling or booking vacation rentals in any destination, Vacasa recommends checking local regulations due to COVID-19.
Featured Vacasa vacation rental: Shasta at Twin Palms
Located in Southern California, the Coachella Valley encompasses the desert cities of Palm Springs, Indio, Cathedral City, Palm City, and other quaint towns with eye-catching architecture. Its year-round warmth makes Coachella Valley a go-to destination with average temps between 70 and 100 degrees in September. Guests have their choice of unspoiled desert beauty within driving distance, including the famous Joshua Tree National Park to the north, the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains to the south, and the diverse Snow-to-Sand National Monument to the west.
Featured Vacasa vacation rental: Snowstorm
You may think “mountain getaway” when considering Summit County, but if you’re looking to spend your long weekend by fresh water, this is the perfect spot to do so. With its surplus of alpine lakes, Summit County—which includes the towns of Breckenridge, Frisco, Dillon, and SIlverthorne, among others—is the place to try one of the season’s most popular sports: fly fishing. Licensed anglers can reel in rainbow, brown, and lake trout in many of the region’s picturesque lakes and rivers. Plus, you can bring your fresh catch back to your vacation rental to grill up a delicious and well-deserved Labor Day feast.
Featured Vacasa vacation rental: Alarka's Lure
Surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had while staying in one of our Western North Carolina cabin rentals at the base of the Smoky Mountains. The area’s small towns like Sylva, Bryson City, and Whittier offer charming attractions and easy access to the area’s national parks. Also home to the historic Appalachian Trail, Western North Carolina is the long weekend getaway for guests looking to unwind in nature and take in epic views from a vacation rental deck.
Explore Western North Carolina Vacation Rentals
Featured Vacasa vacation rental: Little House on the Bay
The Gulf of Mexico is known for its family-friendly vibe, seemingly endless sunshine, and calm emerald waters perfect for summer swimming. Need we say more? From Galveston down to Corpus Christi, the Texas Gulf Coast is a sprawling playground, with 350 miles of white sandy beaches to spread out and relax for the holiday weekend. The coastline is dotted with beautiful beach towns and wildlife preserves, including South Padre Island’s Sea Turtle, Inc., a rehabilitation center for sea turtles.