Top 10 Places to Buy a Vacation Rental Right Now

Embark on a journey to discover the top destinations for purchasing a vacation rental in 2024. Whether you’re seeking a bustling urban retreat, a serene coastal escape, or a picturesque mountain hideaway, the best places to buy a vacation rental right now offer a diverse range of investment opportunities. From tried-and-true hotspots to emerging up-and-comers, these destinations cater to a variety of preferences and investment goals.

As the vacation rental market continues to evolve, these top locations provide valuable insights into potential investment opportunities, preferred local real estate agents, and expert property management services. Whether you’re drawn to established vacation destinations with a rich history of hospitality or emerging locales with untapped potential, the top places to buy a vacation rental right now offer a wealth of possibilities for investors seeking to capitalize on the thriving vacation rental market.

Best Places to Buy a Vacation Rental Homes

That’s exactly what our real estate experts did; they crunched the numbers to help you narrow down your search for the best chance to make money. These are the 10 best places to buy a holiday rental right now. They range from hidden gems on the East Coast to interesting Southern towns.

1. Coastal Destinations

Coastal areas are perennial favorites for vacation rentals due to their irresistible combination of sun, sand, and sea. Florida’s Gulf Coast, for instance, offers miles of pristine beaches, warm waters perfect for swimming, and an abundance of water sports activities like snorkeling and kayaking. California’s Big Sur captivates with its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque sunsets, drawing travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Similarly, the Outer Banks in North Carolina boasts charming beach towns, historic lighthouses, and opportunities for fishing and dolphin watching. Investing in beachfront properties in these locations can be lucrative, as they attract a steady stream of tourists throughout the year, especially during peak vacation seasons and holidays.

2. Mountain Retreats

Mountainous regions offer a serene escape amidst breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures. Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, for example, lure visitors with world-class skiing in the winter and hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing in the summer. The Smoky Mountains in Tennessee provide a haven for nature lovers with their lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Similarly, the Swiss Alps offer unparalleled skiing and snowboarding opportunities, as well as charming alpine villages and cultural experiences. Vacation rentals in these mountain retreats can attract tourists seeking adventure, relaxation, and a connection with nature, making them desirable investment options with potential for high occupancy rates and rental income.

3. Urban Hotspots

Metropolitan cities continue to be popular destinations for vacation rentals, offering a diverse array of cultural experiences, culinary delights, and vibrant nightlife. New York City, for instance, entices visitors with its iconic landmarks like Times Square, Broadway theaters, and world-class museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Paris charms with its romantic ambiance, historic architecture, and renowned landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum. Tokyo captivates with its futuristic skyline, traditional temples, and bustling street markets. Investing in vacation rentals in these urban hotspots can be lucrative, as they attract tourists year-round for business, leisure, and special events, ensuring a steady stream of rental income and high occupancy rates.

Quick Read: 9 Best Vacation Rentals With Private Pools For Families In California

4. Lakeside Getaways

Tranquil lakeside retreats offer a peaceful respite surrounded by natural beauty and recreational activities. Lake Tahoe, nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, provides opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and skiing, attracting outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. Lake Como in Italy enchants with its crystal-clear waters, charming lakeside villages, and elegant villas, making it a favorite destination for romantic getaways and luxury travel.

The Lake District in England boasts picturesque landscapes, historic sites like Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top farm, and outdoor adventures such as hiking, cycling, and boat cruises. Vacation rentals near lakeshores can cater to families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking relaxation, adventure, and a connection with nature, making them desirable investment properties with potential for high rental demand and returns.

5. Cultural Capitals

Cities steeped in history, art, and culture attract travelers seeking enriching experiences and immersive adventures. Rome, for example, beckons with its ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and delectable cuisine, offering visitors a glimpse into the glory of the Roman Empire and the Vatican City. Florence captivates with its magnificent cathedrals, world-class museums, and Renaissance masterpieces by artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Barcelona charms with its vibrant street life, modernist architecture, and Catalan culture, inviting visitors to explore the works of Antoni Gaudí and sample delicious tapas. Investing in vacation rentals in cultural capitals can be rewarding, as they attract tourists year-round for sightseeing, cultural events, and culinary experiences, ensuring consistent rental income and high occupancy rates.

6. Island Paradises

Tropical islands offer an idyllic setting for vacation rentals, boasting palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. Hawaii’s diverse islands, from the volcanic landscapes of Big Island to the lush greenery of Kauai, provide a paradise for beachgoers, surfers, and nature enthusiasts alike. The Maldives entices with its overwater bungalows, vibrant coral reefs, and unparalleled diving and snorkeling opportunities in the Indian Ocean.

Meanwhile, the Caribbean islands offer a rich tapestry of cultures, from the reggae rhythms of Jamaica to the colonial charm of Barbados, along with pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Vacation rentals in these island paradises can command premium rates, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays, making them attractive investment options for those seeking to capitalize on the allure of tropical getaways.

7. Wine Country

Vineyard regions are sought-after destinations for wine enthusiasts and epicureans, offering a blend of gourmet cuisine, scenic landscapes, and world-class wineries. Napa Valley in California is renowned for its award-winning wines, picturesque vineyards, and Michelin-starred restaurants, making it a haven for food and wine lovers. Bordeaux, France, boasts centuries-old châteaux, vine-covered hillsides, and prestigious wine estates producing some of the world’s finest vintages. Tuscany’s rolling hills, medieval villages, and olive groves create a picturesque backdrop for wine tasting and culinary adventures. Vacation rentals in wine country settings can cater to travelers seeking a luxurious and immersive experience amidst vineyards, ensuring a steady stream of rental income, particularly during wine festivals and harvest seasons.

8. Adventure Destinations

For thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, adventure destinations offer adrenaline-pumping activities and breathtaking natural landscapes. Queenstown in New Zealand is a mecca for adventure sports, with opportunities for bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and hiking amidst the stunning scenery of the Southern Alps and Lake Wakatipu. Interlaken in Switzerland is famed for its alpine adventures, including paragliding, canyoning, and skiing against the backdrop of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.

Moab in Utah attracts outdoor adventurers with its red rock formations, world-class mountain biking trails, and exhilarating whitewater rafting on the Colorado River. Vacation rentals in these adventure hubs can cater to adrenaline junkies and nature lovers seeking an active and memorable getaway, ensuring high occupancy rates and repeat bookings throughout the year.

9. Historic Towns

Quaint historic towns offer a charming glimpse into the past with their cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and rich heritage. Charleston in South Carolina exudes Southern hospitality with its antebellum mansions, historic plantations, and picturesque waterfront, inviting visitors to explore its storied past. Savannah, Georgia, enchants with its well-preserved squares, moss-draped oaks, and ghostly tales of the Old South, creating a romantic and nostalgic atmosphere. Bath in England delights with its Georgian architecture, Roman baths, and Jane Austen connections, providing a cultural and architectural feast for history buffs and literature lovers. Vacation rentals in historic towns offer a unique opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in local culture and history, ensuring memorable experiences and repeat visits to these charming destinations.

10. Ecotourism Destinations

With a growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental conservation, ecotourism destinations appeal to travelers seeking immersive experiences in nature and responsible tourism practices. Costa Rica is a leader in ecotourism, boasting diverse ecosystems, from rainforests and volcanoes to beaches and coral reefs, along with eco-friendly accommodations and adventure activities like zip-lining and wildlife watching. Iceland offers breathtaking landscapes of glaciers, waterfalls, and geothermal hot springs, as well as opportunities for hiking, whale watching, and Northern Lights viewing in a pristine and unspoiled environment.

Bhutan, known for its commitment to Gross National Happiness, offers travelers a chance to explore ancient monasteries, traditional culture, and stunning Himalayan landscapes while supporting sustainable tourism initiatives. Vacation rentals in ecotourism destinations provide travelers with an opportunity to connect with nature, support local communities, and minimize their environmental footprint, ensuring a fulfilling and responsible travel experience.

Conclusion

The quest for the perfect vacation rental investment leads to a myriad of enticing destinations that cater to diverse investment preferences and goals. From established hotspots with a history of acclaimed hospitality to emerging locales brimming with untapped potential, the top places to buy a vacation rental right now offer a wealth of opportunities for investors.

As the vacation rental market continues to flourish, these destinations provide valuable resources, including data-driven insights, preferred local real estate agents, and expert property management services, to guide investors in making informed decisions.

Whether it’s the allure of coastal retreats, urban havens, or scenic mountain getaways, the best places to buy a vacation rental right now serve as a gateway to a world of investment possibilities, promising lucrative returns and a rewarding venture into the thriving vacation rental industry.

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