View from Outer Banks
Come summer time it seems almost EVERYONE is looking for a summer getaway. Many people wonder where the best vacation rental spots are in the country.
The good news is, there are places for everyone! Whether you prefer being on the east coast, west coast, the gulf, or simply anywhere other then home! The question lies though, “Where do I go? How much will it cost me? How do I get there?”
We will answer those questions….
Those looking to be on the beach will save considerable dollars by going at off-peak times. Early in the seasons (May, June) or after the busy season. (September, October) We will start first with the best destinations on the East Coast. While some of these destinations will be for beach lookers, we will also add some other great vacation home destinations throughout the country.
The Outer Banks, North Carolina
East Coasters from Maine down to Florida retreat to the Outer Banks for an awesome beach getaway. While the beaches and the scenery are beautiful, a trip to the Outer Banks is NEVER convenient.
Even fellow North Carolina residents have to drive hour after hour to get here because of it’s geographical location. The closest airport is Norfolk, Virginia and even that is a couple hour drive for most parts of the Banks. If you are looking to stay in a more convenient area for shopping and restaurants, stay in the North. (Nags Head and towns north) If you prefer serene and quiet stay in the South. (Anything south of Rodanthe)
While the Outer Banks is not convenient, it is a beautiful drive! And it has some of the best beaches and vacation houses in the country. Plus the prices cannot be topped for what you are getting. The best sites for Outer Banks rentals are Hatteras Realty and Surf or Sound.
The Florida Keys
One of the most beautiful drives in the country is the drive from Miami to Key West. While the Florida Keys can be a bit more costly then the Outer Banks, it also presents more opportunities. From snorkeling to great fishing to world-class shopping.
It is also more convenient then the Outer Banks as well. While flights to Key West are super convenient, they are generally super costly as well. But a flight to Ft.Lauderdale or Miami ain’t too shabby. Rent a convertible and take the drive down the coast! You won’t regret it. Check out Vacation Homes of Key West.
Hilton Head/Myrtle Beach/Charleston
Since they are all so close in proximity I will include them all together. All 3 of these South Carolina beach retreats present great opportunities for those looking to get a beach getaway. Some of the best golfing in the country, in addition to affordable home rentals.
Charleston certainly has the edge on things to do and places to eat, since it is such a great city! Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach might have a leg up as far as beaches, and relaxation. All 3 are great family destinations with lots to do for the whole family. Myrtle Beach is the furtherest north, followed by Charleston, and then Hilton Head.
Check out Home Away for rentals all over the 3.
The Jersey Shore
Despite the negative connotations the Jersey Shore continues to attract visitors. For those looking to do it reasonably affordably, I recommend the Cape May/Wildwood area. The beaches are comparable throughout New Jersey, but the prices are vastly cheaper then Long Beach Island, or Lavallette.
Check out Home Away or Shore Vacations for the best deals on the Jersey Shore.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Although this might not be a beach getaway, it can be a beautiful scenic escape. You might be asking, “What is in Gatlinburg, Tennessee?”
The most beautiful views of the Great Smoky Mountains! Gatlinburg is a small, touristy town with some other fun things to do and see throughout. You can be situated around the mountains in a scenic log cabin with unbelievable views. Check out this site to learn more about it, and see the cabins you can rent.
Kissimmee, Florida
This is the home for time shares, vacation rental homes, and theme parks! Whether you want to go to Disney, Sea World, or Universal you are just a short drive away! This is a wonderful access point if you would like to do and see all the Central Florida has to offer.
Kissimmee offers magnificent rates on beautiful homes throughout the area. Check out Homes4UU to see all the different possibilities. They’ll help you book your vacation as well.
Lake Tahoe, Nevada
Stay at a beautiful home next to or around the breathtaking Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe is viewed by many as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, situated with a backdrop of the snowcapped peaks of the Cascade-Sierra mountains.
Lake Tahoe is situated directly between Nevada and California. The easiest way to get here is driving from the Reno/Tahoe airport. For rentals on Lake Tahoe, check out Go Tahoe North or Rent By Owner.
Palm Springs, California
One of the most popular vacation rental destinations in the world! Palm Springs is located in the southeastern region of California in the desert.
If you love shopping, beautiful views, artwork, or gambling, Palm Springs is the place for you. Palm Springs is also the home of the beautiful Joshua Tree National Park. You can also take a ride on the world famous Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which is the world’s largest rotating tramcar.
A visit to Palm Springs will provide more then enough adventure and activity for the whole family. Plus it is very affordable for California standards. Check out Vacation Palm Springs, Palm Springs Rentals or Oasis Rentals for more info on renting a home in Palm Springs.
That is my list of best places to get a vacation rental in the United States. I know I am certainly missing some, but the question is ‘which ones?’ If you enjoy a rental home destination somewhere, tell me in the comments below.