When investing in a beach short-term rental (STR), the right amenities can make or break your revenue potential. While location and pricing play a role, offering high-performing amenities can significantly increase occupancy rates, nightly rates, and overall return on investment (ROI).
Using Rabbu’s Market Data Tool, we analyzed top-performing amenities across high-demand beach markets, including Pensacola, Myrtle Beach, Miami Beach, Carolina Beach, and Freeport, TX.
Here are the 10 best amenities that drive higher revenue in beach vacation rentals—and a few that don’t perform as well.
Top 10 Amenities That Boost Beach STR ROI
1. Waterfront Location
🏖 Revenue Impact: +$35,722 (Miami Beach, FL)
It’s no surprise that waterfront properties dominate in beach markets. Listings with direct ocean views and private beach access consistently outperform other properties.
✅ Markets Where It Performs Best: Miami Beach, Pensacola, Freeport
❗ Pro Tip: Even if your property isn’t beachfront, properties near water with easy access still see revenue gains. Use Rabbu’s Market Data Tool to analyze gross yield by proximity to water before investing.
2. Swimming Pool
💦 Revenue Impact: +$31,533 (Miami Beach, FL)
A private pool is one of the most sought-after amenities in warmer coastal markets, where year-round usability drives bookings.
✅ Markets Where It Performs Best: Miami Beach, Freeport, Myrtle Beach
❗ Pro Tip: Heated pools extend seasonal demand, increasing bookings outside of peak summer months.
3. Hot Tub
🔥 Revenue Impact: +$16,682 (Pensacola, FL)
Guests crave relaxation, and a hot tub makes a property stand out—especially in cooler beach markets where pools aren’t as effective year-round.
✅ Markets Where It Performs Best: Pensacola, Freeport
❗ Pro Tip: Consider adding a hot tub over a pool in markets with cooler seasons to maintain strong revenue in off-peak months.
4. Washer & Dryer
🧺 Revenue Impact: +$22,276 (Freeport, TX)
For longer stays and family-friendly rentals, a washer and dryer increases booking conversions and guest satisfaction.
✅ Markets Where It Performs Best: Freeport, Pensacola, Myrtle Beach
❗ Pro Tip: Laundry access is especially important for multi-bedroom rentals that attract groups or families.
5. Gym & Fitness Equipment
💪 Revenue Impact: +$43,241 (Miami Beach, FL)
A surprising top performer in high-end markets, fitness spaces are a premium feature for luxury travelers, remote workers, and extended stays.
✅ Markets Where It Performs Best: Miami Beach, Pensacola
❗ Pro Tip: Treadmills, yoga spaces, and Peloton bikes are great additions for fitness-conscious travelers.
6. High-Speed Wi-Fi & Workspaces
💻 Revenue Impact: +$13,868 (Carolina Beach, NC)
With remote work and “workcations” on the rise, fast Wi-Fi and dedicated workspaces attract longer stays and business travelers.
✅ Markets Where It Performs Best: Carolina Beach, Miami Beach
❗ Pro Tip: Upgrade your Wi-Fi speed and add a simple, ergonomic desk setup for digital nomads.
7. Outdoor Entertainment & BBQ Grill
🔥 Revenue Impact: +$13,763 (Carolina Beach, NC)
A patio, firepit, or BBQ grill creates an inviting outdoor space for family gatherings and group travelers.
✅ Markets Where It Performs Best: Carolina Beach, Freeport
❗ Pro Tip: Beachside fire pits and covered outdoor dining areas boost the guest experience and increase occupancy.
8. EV Charger
⚡ Revenue Impact: +$29,794 (Freeport, TX)
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, having a charging station is an easy way to differentiate your rental in high-income and eco-conscious markets.
✅ Markets Where It Performs Best: Freeport, Miami Beach
❗ Pro Tip: Check Rabbu’s Market Data Tool to see if EV chargers impact revenue in your area before investing.
9. Balcony & Ocean Views
🌅 Revenue Impact: +$14,842 (Freeport, TX)
A private balcony with ocean views enhances the vacation experience, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenery.
✅ Markets Where It Performs Best: Freeport, Pensacola
❗ Pro Tip: Even small balcony spaces can boost nightly rates if they offer sunset or ocean views.
10. Self-Check-In & Smart Locks
🔑 Revenue Impact: +$11,288 (Freeport, TX)
Seamless self-check-in improves convenience, reducing guest complaints about key pickups or late arrivals.
✅ Markets Where It Performs Best: Freeport, Myrtle Beach
❗ Pro Tip: Smart locks with automated codes help streamline turnovers and guest access.
Amenities That Don’t Perform as Well in Every Market
Not all amenities provide strong ROI in every market. Based on Rabbu’s Market Data, here are some amenities with lower returns that vary by location:
🚫 Parking: Some beach cities don’t benefit from dedicated parking, especially in urban locations where public transport or rideshare is common.
🚫 Sauna: While popular in ski markets, saunas performed poorly in beach destinations, often delivering negative ROI.
🚫 Backyard Spaces: Not all markets favor large yard spaces, particularly in high-rise condo-heavy areas.
Key Takeaway: Every Market is Different
Not every high-performing amenity in one beach market will translate into success in another. Before making any upgrades, use Rabbu’s Market Data Tool to see what works best in your specific market.
Final Thoughts: Data-Driven Amenities for Maximum ROI
Investing in the right beach STR amenities can significantly increase revenue, but data should guide your decisions. Based on Rabbu’s Airbnb Market Data, the most profitable amenities balance luxury, convenience, and guest expectations.
✅ Use Rabbu’s Market Data to:
✔ Analyze real Airbnb revenue trends by market
✔ Compare top-performing amenities by region
✔ Make smart investment decisions that increase your Airbnb's earning potential
Start maximizing your beach rental’s ROI today. Explore Rabbu’s Market Data Tool here: https://rabbu.com/airbnb-data 🚀
