A couple of weeks ago we rounded up a handful of our best friends (ok, 20 of our friends) and headed to a little (ok, it was pretty big) seaside getaway in Oceanside, CA. We were celebrating our friend Jessie’s 30th birthday, and we knew it HAD to be special. We wanted somewhere relatively close to home where we could feel like we “got away” and could easily relax, unwind, and unplug. We found a place called the “Mermaid By The Sea" on VRBO, and it couldn’t have been more perfect!
This was our first time doing a house rental on VRBO… and it definitely won’t be our last. While we’re big fans of fancy hotels, room service, and over-all hotel hospitality, there’s something to be said for renting a home. It’s efficient, the homes are surprisingly luxurious, and it is SO cost effective. (Especially when you’re traveling with friends!)
The Mermaid By The Sea is located on the best street in Oceanside, with pristine ocean views and hotel-worthy amenities that you have ALL to yourself. That’s right. We’re talking a sparkling heated pool, jacuzzi, surround sound, outdoor barbecue and fireplace, all of the lawn games and beach cruisers you and your friends could ever need, and SO MUCH MORE. We could not believe how well-stocked this home was… From the kitchen utensils and serving plates to the board games to the cozy blankets and soft pillows - we could go on and on!
One morning we all took a walk down the beach, and it was absolutely heavenly. The Oceanside beach is quiet, secluded, and peaceful. We laid out, played spike ball, and even snuck some fun drone shots in. Hours passed before we realized it was definitely time for lunch! (If you’ve been following us for awhile, you know that our travels revolve around food!)
Speaking of food… One of our favorite memories at the Mermaid By The Sea was every morning having our cup of coffee (or mimosa - or BOTH!) on the rooftop patio. We’d watch the waves roll in, have deep conversations with friends, and breath in the fresh, salty air. At night we’d make a round of margaritas and take them to the rooftop to watch the sunset. C’mon… what more could you want?!!
We really could go on and on about how amazing and restful and life-giving this weekend was… How it was the perfect spot to celebrate a birthday, how we bring up “The Mermaid By The Sea” on the reg (if only we lived there), how the weekend went too fast, and how we need to plan our next trip ASAP. It was the perfect weekend at the perfect beach rental. Whether you’re celebrating a family member or friend’s birthday, a family reunion, or just in need of some time to unwind… we highly recommend this spot. And let us know if you decide to book - we’ll meet you for a dip in the pool. ;)