Sedona is a fantastic place to bring a crowd: there's hiking for the adventurers, spas and galleries for the relaxers, and stargazing and hot tubs for everyone. Here's what we've learned from hosting reunions, retreats and milestone celebrations.
1. Pick one home (or homes right next to each other)
Hotels split a group across hallways and floors. A vacation home keeps everyone together around one kitchen table and one hot tub. Look closely at the bedroom and bathroom count, not just the guest maximum, and at where people will actually sleep. Some of our properties can be booked as a whole (main house plus guest suite) so a big group gets privacy and togetherness.
2. Book earlier than you think
Large homes are the first to go, especially for spring, fall and holiday weekends. For those dates, aim to book three to six months ahead. Winter and midsummer offer more flexibility and better rates.
3. Plan a few anchor activities, then leave room
- A Jeep tour: an easy way to get everyone, of every fitness level, out into the red rocks.
- A group hike: Bell Rock or Airport Mesa work for mixed abilities.
- Slide Rock State Park: a natural water slide in Oak Creek Canyon, best in summer.
- Wine country: the Verde Valley's tasting rooms in Cottonwood, Jerome and Page Springs are a short drive away. Book a driver.
- Stargazing: Sedona is a designated International Dark Sky Community. Turn off the porch lights, get in the hot tub and look up.
4. Make meals easy
Do one big grocery run in West Sedona on arrival, assign each family or couple one dinner, and plan one night out at a restaurant that takes large-group reservations. A home with a well-stocked kitchen and a big table pays for itself.
5. Book direct
When you book directly with us, you skip the booking-site service fees, which add up fast on a multi-night group stay. You can also talk to a real local about which home fits your group.