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By Kristi Palma
Two of the nation’s most outstanding rental homes are located beachside and lakeside in New England, according to Vrbo.
For the fifth year in a row, the online vacation rental marketplace has named its vacation rentals of the year, and this year’s 15 properties represent a variety of styles and are found in some of the most popular vacation destinations in the country.
The rentals on the list are in desirable locations, are great for groups, and have high ratings, according to Vrbo. What’s more, they have a “wow factor” — unique amenities and architectural features — and are managed by dedicated, reliable Premier Hosts who “consistently delight their guests,” noted the company.
“The Vacation Rentals of the Year showcase the finest vacation rentals on Vrbo,” said Larry Plawsky, senior vice president and general manager at Vrbo, in a statement. “New this year, every property on the list has earned the ‘Loved by Guests’ badge — a recognition reserved only for the top 10% of homes in a destination based on real guest reviews.”
On this year’s list is a Cape Cod family-owned property in Yarmouth named “Our Oceanview.” The 2,800 square-foot property near the beach with four bedrooms and four bathrooms is an “upside down house,” which means guests enter through the lower floor. It has three ocean-view decks, an outdoor shower, and a nostalgic 1960s in-law suite. Guests enjoy views of the water, where they can watch seals and passing boats.

“Premier Host Monica O’Neill goes above and beyond for every family, from crafting handmade welcome baskets to urgently mailing back a forgotten stuffed animal,” wrote Vrbo. “Her thoughtful touches ensure guests always feel welcome, cared for, and right at home.”

Tucked within a wooded cove on Squam Lake in Center Harbor, N.H., the other New England standout property on the list, Modern Squam Lake Retreat, has floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing gorgeous lake and mountain views, a spacious deck, lake-view hot tub, and private dock. The 3,000 square-foot four-bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom home was designed by Vrbo Premier Host David Rose as a peaceful escape for his family, according to Vrbo.

“With upscale amenities, serene surroundings, and easy access to Center Harbor and Meredith, this property defines tranquil, high-end, lakefront living,” wrote Vrbo.

The other rentals on the list are located in Breckenridge, Colo.; Big Sky, Montana; Charleston, S.C.; Gulf Shores, Ala.; Hanalei, Hawaii; Osage Beach, Mo.; and Palm Desert, Calif.; Park City, Utah; Rockbridge, Ohio; Sag Harbor, N.Y.; Savannah, Ga.; Seacrest Beach, Fla.; and Wilmington, N.C.
Check out Vrbo’s list of 2026 vacation rentals of the year.
Kristi Palma is the travel writer for Boston.com, focusing on the six New England states. She covers airlines, hotels, and things to do across Boston and New England. She is the author of the award-winning Scenic Six, a weekly travel newsletter.
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