1. Maui, Hawai’i
Median home price: $1,400,000Over 3 million people visit the Hawaiian island of Maui each year, so if you’re among them, why not make it official? The Valley Isle offers many types of vacation homes: resort-style condominiums, golf course properties and waterfront villas. When you feel like playing tourist, there’s plenty to do on your first trip to Maui, including a volcanic park hike, catamaran snorkeling tours, breathtaking scenic drives, whale watching, golfing and evening luaus. If you want to escape the crowds, there are plenty of stretches of idyllic beach. With temperatures rarely fluctuating outside the 70s to 90s range, there’s rarely a bad time to visit the island.2. Lake Tahoe, California
Median home price: $744,000Lake Tahoe attracts outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers all year long. Whether you love to ski, hike, boat or simply sit back and take in breathtaking alpine views, Lake Tahoe is a dream vacation home location.Luxury second homes in Lake Tahoe
3. Napa Valley, California
Median home price: $1,200,000Calling all wine lovers! America’s most famous wine region, Napa Valley, is home to nearly 500 wineries, making it a future sommelier’s dream and one of the best places for vacation homes. The region’s Mediterranean-like climate makes it an ideal year-round destination for perfect weather and outdoor wine tastings. Of course, there are also plenty of non-wine-related activities to enjoy: You can sample world-class cuisine, cycle the Napa Valley Vine Trail and go up in a hot air balloon to see views of vineyards and valleys. Residents and visitors also enjoy local art festivals and championship golf courses.4. Malibu, California
Median home price: $6,500,000Channel your inner Hollywood celebrity in Malibu, a popular getaway for the rich and famous. Malibu offers 27 miles of coastline along the famed Pacific Coast Highway. Surfing, sunbathing and beachcombing are popular ways to spend your day, but you’ll also find plenty of ways to soak up the sun in the surrounding Santa Monica Mountains. Hiking, horseback riding and nature walks are popular with locals and visitors. For those who want something a little less physical, hit up the Malibu Farmers Market, plan a visit to the historic Getty Villa Museum or taste wine at an amazing mountaintop estate. If California vibes, stunning beaches and outdoor activities call to you, consider making Malibu your second home.5. Newport Beach, California
Median home price: $4,500,000Southern California is simply brimming with sunny beach towns, and each one is a great vacation home destination. Newport Beach in Orange County stands out for its luxurious feel, making it one of the best places to buy vacation homes.
6. Palm Springs, California
Median home price: $849,000Why should you buy a second home in Palm Springs? There’s something special about this California desert town, known for its Mid-Century Modern architecture, sweeping views of the mountains that surround the Coachella Valley and thriving arts community.
7. Park City, Utah
Median home price: $2,200,000Once a silver mining town and today a world-class mountain getaway that hosts the famous Sundance Film Festival, Utah’s Park City is brimming with things to do.
8. Vail, Colorado
Median home price: $2,000,000If you’re more interested in snow than sand, Vail might be your ideal second home location. While Colorado’s Rocky Mountains offer some 30 different ski areas, Vail Ski Resort is the largest, with 5,317 skiable acres.
9. Finger Lakes, New York
Median home price: $197,200From picturesque hills to luxury vineyards and small-town charm, Finger Lakes is one of the best places to own a vacation home for wine connoisseurs and nature lovers alike. This getaway is centrally located in Upstate New York and composed of 11 lakes. It’s also within easy travel of major urban hubs, including New York City and Toronto.Nearby, Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery offers premier wine tastings and educational workshops for those who want to learn about and sample regional libations. Take a hike in Taughannock Falls State Park for a family-friendly excursion and enjoy breathtaking waterfall views.10. Lake Anna, Virginia
Median home price: $524,900 The centerpiece of the community is its expansive freshwater inland reservoir, which spans over 13,000 acres and offers more than 200 miles of picturesque shoreline. The pristine waters of Lake Anna create a haven for water enthusiasts, with boating, fishing and water sports opportunities. It’s never a bad time to visit Lake Anna — the town comes alive in every season, making it a perfect year-round vacation destination.The region's relative proximity to major cities like Richmond, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., adds to its appeal, offering convenience without sacrificing the tranquility that comes with a vacation home.11. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Median home price: $625,000Is there any place quite as charming as Hilton Head Island? With a laid-back feel and welcoming vibe, there’s plenty to love about Lowcountry living. This South Carolina escape boasts a mild, subtropical climate year-round, award-winning beaches and many can’t-miss activities. The island is known as a great destination for families, thanks to activities like bike riding, fishing and kayaking. And although the island is only 69 square miles, it’s packed with an incredible 33 golf courses. Is it time to tee off yet?12. West Palm Beach, Florida
Median home price: $490,000Still searching for where to buy a vacation home? There’s a reason many residents of the Northeast flock to Florida in the winter. West Palm Beach offers the perfect year-round combination of beautiful beaches and exciting entertainment and activities. West Palm Beach is home to SunFest, Florida’s largest waterfront music festival. The city’s four distinct retail and entertainment districts feature casual bars, vibrant nightclubs and great shopping. For the artistically inclined, the town has a dynamic performing arts center and a wonderful art museum. Oh, and balmy temperatures fluctuate from a low of 75 degrees in January to a high of 90 in July and August.13. Okaloosa Island, Florida
Median home price: $417,000Looking for a dreamy Florida vacation destination? One of the primary draws of Okaloosa Island is its sugar-white sand beaches and emerald-green waters. The island is near popular attractions like Destin and Fort Walton, which offer various entertainment options and amenities. Stroll along The Boardwalk to get a bite to eat or do some boutique shopping. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is an opportunity to enjoy water shows and encounter local marine life. With plenty of beachside condos and waterfront vacation homes available, Okaloosa Island is one of the best places to buy a beach house built for families.
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Best place to buy a vacation home FAQ
Is a vacation home considered an investment?
Yes, a vacation home can be an investment if you purchase it with the expectation of generating rental income or potential appreciation in value over time.
Is it hard to finance a vacation home?
Financing a vacation home can be more challenging than financing a primary residence because lenders often have stricter requirements and higher down payment expectations. Lenders may also charge higher interest rates for second homes.
Should I buy or rent a vacation home?
Buying or renting a vacation home depends on factors such as your financial situation, frequency of use and long-term goals. Buying offers potential investment benefits, while renting provides flexibility and avoids property ownership responsibilities.
