You’ve chosen your perfect vacation rental with Arrivls—now what? Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a week-long escape, or something in between, a vacation rental gives you the space and flexibility to truly unwind.
La Quinta is known for its sunny skies, stunning mountain views, and relaxed desert energy—and staying in a vacation rental lets you experience all of that like a local. From slow mornings on the patio to evenings grilling under the stars, your home away from home is part of the trip.
As local hosts who have welcomed thousands of guests, here are our top five tips to help you maximize your stay and create unforgettable memories.
1. Know what’s included and Communicate Your Needs
Before your arrival, don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, special requests, or trip details. Whether you’re traveling with young kids, celebrating a special occasion, or just want to know the best place to grab dinner after a late flight, we’re here to help. Our team is local and hands-on, and we genuinely want you to feel at home the moment you walk through the door.
Many of our homes are stocked with family-friendly items like high chairs and pack ’n plays, but it helps to know in advance if you’ll need them set out and ready. Likewise, if you’re planning to arrive late or want early check-in, it’s best to let us know as early as possible—we’ll always try to accommodate when the calendar allows.
2. Explore Your Neighborhood
Arrivls properties are thoughtfully located in vibrant neighborhoods that give you easy access to some of the best that La Quinta has to offer. One of the simplest (and most rewarding) ways to enjoy your stay is to take a leisurely stroll through the area. You’ll often find quiet streets lined with palm trees, mountain views around every corner, and neighbors out walking dogs on the Bear Creek path. Experiencing the community firsthand will enrich your stay and give you an authentic feel for your destination.
We always recommend guests spend at least one morning exploring Old Town La Quinta. It’s just a few minutes away and packed with charm—think cobblestone walkways, boutique shops, great restaurants, and a laid-back vibe that perfectly captures the desert lifestyle. Grab a coffee at Old Town Coffee Company, browse the La Quinta Olive Oil Company, or check out the Sunday Certified Farmers Market (seasonal) for fresh produce, flowers, and local goods.
If you’re up for a bit more adventure, head to the nearby La Quinta Cove trails. The Cove to Lake Trail is a guest favorite, offering easy-to-moderate terrain with beautiful desert views. Whether you’re walking, biking, or just soaking in the surroundings, exploring your neighborhood is one of the best ways to experience La Quinta like a local.
For more local favorites and a full itinerary of how to spend a day in town, be sure to check out our blog post on how to spend the perfect day in La Quinta.
3. Enjoy Home-Cooked Meals
One of the biggest perks of staying in a vacation rental is having a full kitchen at your fingertips. Whether you love to cook or just want to keep things simple between outings, taking advantage of your rental’s kitchen can make your trip feel more relaxed, more personal, and more budget-friendly.
All Arrivls homes come with fully equipped kitchens—including cookware, utensils, dishes, and basics like salt, pepper, and cooking oil. We also stock a starter supply of coffee and creamer, and many of our homes include extras like blenders and slow cookers. If you’re looking for something specific, don’t hesitate to ask, but we’ll have the essentials!
If you’d like to cook during your stay, you’ll find several convenient grocery options nearby. Trader Joe’s and Ralphs are both just a short drive away, and Costco in Palm Desert is a great option for stocking up if you’re traveling with a group or staying for more than a few days. We’re also big fans of the meat counter at El Toro Loco! Want to skip the store altogether? Many guests opt for an Instacart or Walmart delivery straight to the house.
While guests do rave about our restaurant recommendations (and we’ve got plenty), we know from personal experience that some of the most memorable meals are the ones enjoyed at home—grilling by the pool, or having a slow morning in pajamas with a big family breakfast. Making use of the kitchen is a great way to settle in and enjoy the comfort of your home away from home.
4. Plan Downtime
It can be tempting to pack your itinerary with activities, especially when visiting somewhere new—but some of the best moments on vacation happen when you slow down and enjoy the space around you.
Our homes are designed with comfort in mind, from cozy living rooms and spacious kitchens to peaceful outdoor areas where you can relax between outings. Whether it’s an afternoon nap in the AC, a quiet evening on the patio, or a board game night with family, planning for a little unstructured time lets you recharge and enjoy the home itself.
Guests often tell us they didn’t realize how much they’d appreciate the simple things – like drinking coffee while watching the sunrise over the mountains, curling up for a movie night after a long day, or just having the option to lounge by the pool without needing to be anywhere else.
If you’re staying for several days, we recommend building in one “nothing day” – no reservations, no timeline, just time to enjoy the house and reset. Not in the mood to cook? We’ve rounded up some of our favorite takeout spots in La Quinta so you can kick back and enjoy a great meal with zero effort.
5. Capture Memories
One of the best parts about staying in a vacation rental is how personal and relaxed the experience feels, and those small, everyday moments are worth remembering! While we know you’ll take photos while you’re out exploring, don’t forget to capture memories at the house, too. Think early mornings with coffee on the patio, poolside afternoons, and sunset dinners with the mountains in the background.
Many of our homes have unique design touches and scenic backdrops that make for great photo ops—without the crowds or awkward angles you’d get at a tourist spot. And yes, golden hour really is that good here.
We also love seeing our guests’ memories—if you share on social, feel free to tag us (@arrivls) so we can see your favorite moments, too!
Enjoy Your Stay with Arrivls
If you’ve already booked your La Quinta vacation rental – welcome! We can’t wait to host you. From the moment you arrive, we hope you’ll settle in, slow down, and enjoy all the little moments that make a vacation truly memorable. If there’s anything you need before or during your stay, don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re local, and we’re here to help.
Haven’t booked your stay yet?
Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat, a spacious home for the whole family, or a relaxing spot with a private pool, we’ve got you covered. Check out some of our favorite vacation rentals in La Quinta to find the perfect fit for your getaway.
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