Which Outdoor Fire Pit is Right for Your STR? A Host’s Complete Breakdown

The Complete Guide to Fire Pit Types for Airbnb and Vacation Rental Owners

Few features transform a backyard or patio quite like a fire pit. Whether it’s for roasting marshmallows, sipping wine under the stars, or simply creating a cozy glow, a fire pit adds undeniable charm to any short-term rental. But not all fire pits are created equal—and if you're an Airbnb, VRBO, or STR host, choosing the right type can make all the difference in terms of maintenance, safety, aesthetics, and guest appeal.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the most popular types of fire pits, the pros and cons of each, use-case scenarios, design considerations, and host-specific tips to help you choose the best fire pit for your property.

🔥 1. Wood-Burning Fire Pits

Classic, rustic, and beloved by many

A wood-burning fire pit is the traditional choice that offers the authentic crackling sound and smoky scent of a real campfire. It's perfect for listings that want to evoke a cabin, cottage, or nature-escape feel. Many guests, especially families and outdoorsy travelers, seek out listings with real wood fire pits as part of their ideal vacation experience.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly and easy to find
• Strong nostalgic appeal for guests
• Great for roasting food (hot dogs, s'mores, etc.)
• Doesn’t require a gas line or fuel tank

Cons:

• Requires a constant supply of dry firewood
• Smoke can be bothersome or trigger allergies
• Needs more cleaning (ash, soot)
• Can be prohibited by HOAs or local fire codes

Best For:

• Cabins, mountain retreats, and rustic outdoor themes
• Listings that promote outdoor adventure and campfire experiences
• Hosts with enough outdoor space and ventilation

Host Tip:

Leave a starter pack of firewood, kindling, and matches to enhance guest experience—and make sure to include a fire safety guide in your welcome book.

🔥 2. Propane Fire Pits

Clean-burning, convenient, and easy to use

Propane fire pits offer instant flame at the push of a button. These are ideal for urban or upscale vacation rentals where guests want ambiance without the hassle of lighting logs or dealing with smoke. They come in various modern designs that blend seamlessly into stylish patios and rooftops.

Pros:

• No smoke, sparks, or ash
• Low-maintenance and fast ignition
• Works well in smaller or semi-covered spaces
• Attractive modern styles available

Cons:

• Requires propane refills (keep a backup tank!)
• Less “authentic” campfire feel
• Some models may produce a low flame

Best For:

• Upscale listings or city rentals
• Hosts who want low-maintenance operation
• Guests unfamiliar with starting fires
• Properties with restrictions on wood burning

Host Tip:

Label propane tanks clearly and include simple instructions on how to operate the fire pit safely. Bonus points for providing a spare tank.

🏡 3. Natural Gas Fire Pits

Permanent, luxurious, and high-end

Connected directly to your property’s gas line, natural gas fire pits are built-in, permanent fixtures. These are a long-term investment that can increase property value while offering convenience and consistent flame performance.

Pros:

• No need to replace fuel tanks
• Continuous, adjustable flame
• Adds to your property’s real estate value
• Often more elegant and integrated into landscaping

Cons:

• Higher upfront installation cost
• Requires professional plumbing and permits
• Permanent location limits layout flexibility

Best For:

• Hosts who want a high-end, polished backyard design
• Permanent rental homes with established landscaping
• Listings targeting high-income travelers or long stays

Host Tip:

Pair a built-in gas fire pit with a pergola or outdoor kitchen for maximum guest wow-factor. Promote it as a luxury amenity in your listing photos.

🔥 4. Smokeless Fire Pits

Modern innovation meets traditional experience

Smokeless fire pits, like those by Solo Stove or Breeo, are engineered to reduce smoke output while still using real wood. They offer a cleaner, more comfortable experience with less odor and ash—and are growing in popularity among eco-conscious and family-oriented hosts.

Pros:

• Minimal smoke and eye irritation
• Safer and more pleasant for guests
• Real wood-burning with efficient airflow
• Often portable and lightweight

Cons:

• Higher price tag than basic wood fire pits
• Smaller flame size on some models
• Limited cooking space if guests want to roast

Best For:

• Family-friendly rentals
• Properties in suburban areas with close neighbors
• Design-conscious hosts who want form and function

Host Tip:

Highlight the “smokeless” feature in your listing—it’s a unique selling point that can set your Airbnb apart from others.

🌳 5. Fire Tables

Stylish, dual-purpose, and guest-friendly

Fire tables combine a fire feature with a table surface, making them both functional and elegant. They often run on propane or natural gas and are perfect for cocktail hours, group dining, or quiet evenings under the stars. Fire tables blend seamlessly into upscale patios and are frequently featured in luxury STR listings.

Pros:

• Stylish and modern centerpiece
• Offers space for drinks, snacks, and decor
• Safe for small groups and family setups
• Comes in round, rectangular, and square shapes

Cons:

• Tabletop surface can limit flame height
• Usually more expensive than standard pits
• Not ideal for cooking or large flames

Best For:

• Urban rentals, rooftop terraces, and designer patios
• Hosts targeting adult guests, couples, or small groups
• STRs aiming for high-end aesthetics

Host Tip:

Decorate the fire table with seasonal centerpieces, lanterns, or coasters. It adds a polished touch that photographs beautifully.

🎮 Bonus: Portable Fire Pits

Flexible, budget-friendly, and easy to store

Don’t want a permanent setup? Portable fire pits are great for hosts who want flexibility. You can move them as needed, store them in off-season, or bring them out for special occasions. Many are lightweight, compact, and surprisingly stylish.

Pros:

• Lightweight and affordable
• Easy to store and transport
• Works for patios, decks, and even travel rentals
• Great entry point for first-time hosts

Cons:

• Less durable long-term
• Not as visually impactful as built-in options
• May require frequent cleaning or repositioning

Best For:

• Budget-conscious hosts or new Airbnb owners
• Small spaces or multi-use yards
• Part-time STRs or hosts who want seasonal flexibility

Host Tip:

Use portable fire pits to create themed guest experiences—such as “S’mores Night Kits” or “Wine by the Fire” welcome baskets.

🔥 Safety Tips for Hosting with Fire Pits

Regardless of which fire pit you choose, fire safety is non-negotiable. Make sure you:

• Keep a fire extinguisher or water source nearby
• Post clear fire pit instructions
• Use screens or guards for wood-burning models
• Place seating at a safe distance
• Follow local fire ordinances and HOA rules

Also, include fire pit usage in your house rules or welcome guide to protect yourself from liability and ensure a safe guest experience.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Fire Pit for Your Rental

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to fire pits for Airbnb and vacation rental properties. Your choice should reflect your brand, your location, your guests’ expectations, and your willingness to maintain it.

• Want that rustic, outdoorsy vibe? Go wood-burning or smokeless.
• Prefer convenience and style? Try propane or fire tables.
• Upgrading your luxury listing? Natural gas is a long-term win.

Whatever your choice, adding a fire pit to your outdoor setup instantly boosts your rental's visual appeal, increases time spent outdoors, and creates the kind of magical moments that earn glowing reviews.

Need help finding the right fit? Explore curated, host-friendly fire pits at Optimal Outdoor Oasis — built for beauty, built for bookings.