Vacation home destinations

The golf scene in Palm Springs may be on par with the world’s best, but this California gem offers so much more. Discover our favorite activities in Palm Springs and the surrounding areas, where relaxation and adventure meet. Nature and scenery Among the more popular things to do in Palm Springs, the aerial tramway gives you a chance to beat the heat. Take a scenic 10-minute ride in a rotating tram car up to Mt. San Jacinto State Park and enjoy the cooler mountain air and stunning views from over 8,000 feet above Coachella Valley. At only one acre, it may be small, but the Moorten Botanical Garden is mighty. This private arboretum and popular Palm Springs event venue boasts an ever-changing landscape with over 3,000 different plants native to the desert. Located on the Cahuilla Indian Reservation, Tahquitz Canyon and Indian Canyons have beautifully maintained hiking trails, including a two-mile loop that leads to a magical 60-foot waterfall. Fifteen acres of public gardens await you at Sunnylands Estate, the site of several presidential summits. Tour the lush gardens, sprawling mansion and seasonal exhibits for a tranquil and enriching experience. With rare wildlife, native plants and several palm oases, Coachella Valley Preserve is a pristine 20,000-acre wilderness ideal for hiking, horseback riding and birdwatching. About an hour outside of Palm Springs is Joshua Tree with its unique desert ecosystems, massive rock formations, vast desert landscapes and its quirky namesake trees. Spend the day hiking, rock climbing, or simply strolling through scenic desert gardens. Art, architecture and fashion Designed as a gas station in 1965, this space-age building has been repurposed as the landmark Palm Springs Visitors Center, and it’s worth visiting for the architecture alone. If you’re in the market for something unique or couture, the shops and galleries along the palm-lined Palm Canyon Drive provide a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. Stop by on a Thursday to enjoy VillageFest, a lively outdoor street fair. The Palm Springs Art Museum features contemporary artwork, paintings and sculpture centered around the many layers of desert culture, including Indigenous Americans and the American West. Home to several Mid-Century Modern architectural gems, the Historic Tennis Club and Old Las Palmas neighborhoods of Palm Springs are rich in design history. Plan your own tour to check out the Palm Springs Tennis Club, the Del Marcos Hotel and Elvis’s Honeymoon Hideaway, or schedule a guided tour to hit all the Palm Springs architecture highlights. With a focus on conservation and ecological responsibility, the nonprofit Living Desert Zoo & Gardens is home to over 500 animals representing more than 150 species. Be sure to stop by the giraffe enclosure to hand feed these magnificent animals. Rated as one of the best in the world, the Palm Springs Air Museum not only offers visitors an up-close look at decommissioned aircraft, but also wheels-up flights in several historic planes, including the T-33 Shooting Star jet trainer and PT-17 Stearman. If you’ve ever spotted those giant white turbines towering above the desert and wondered how they work, you’ll find the answer at a Palm Springs Windmill Tour. The private wind farms in Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley offer both self-driving tours and bring-your-own-bike tours. Be sure to add the iconic roadside Cabazon Dinosaurs to your list of things to do in Palm Springs. Dinny, a brontosaurus replica, and Mr. Rex, a tyrannosaurus rex, can be seen from Interstate 10, and their prehistoric attractions include a gift shop, fossil dig and a museum with a unique take on Earth’s natural history. Brought in from Africa and the Middle East in the 1800s, dates have since become the main crop of this desert region. The sweet, dried fruit is blended with ice cream and made into a milkshake. You can find these sweet treats at almost every ice cream shop in the area. You’ll feel like you’ve crossed the state border when you enter the Las Vegas-esque 24-hour Agua Caliente Casino. When you need a break from flirting with Lady Luck, enjoy live entertainment and cocktails at the Cascade Lounge. If you have an adventurous spirit and a penchant for puzzles, Escape Room Palm Springs has six escape room experiences for you to try. Be transported back to Palm Springs’ golden era when Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin crooned onstage at the Purple Room and Supper Club at the Club Trinidad Hotel. The club continues the tradition of live entertainment ranging from comedy shows to jazz. Tiki culture in Palm Springs dates back to 1953 with the opening of the region’s first Tiki Bar. Today, there are four well-known establishments that pay homage to Polynesian culture through iconic tiki drinks, food and island décor – Bootleggers, Tonga Hut, The Reef and Toucans which offers a wide range of entertainment and performances. This 26-foot-high metal statue of Marilyn Monroe makes her truly larger than life. Inspired by the emblematic photograph from the filming of With a vibrant array of colors adorning the exterior and a majestic mountain backdrop, this lively hotel is one of the most photographed in Palm Springs. Add in a sparkling pool and a cocktail in hand, and you have one picture-perfect day in the desert. Take a pic with some of the most famous names of years past – Ginger Rogers, Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley and more – at the Palm Springs Walk of Stars as it winds its way through downtown. This beloved resort features stunning mountain views, towering palms and native plants across its 450 acres. Take a sunset boat ride on the man-made lake or snap a selfie with the flock of Chilean flamingos that grace the entrance of the resort. Perched on the edge of a fountain in beautiful downtown Palm Springs, Sonny Bono’s statue will have you singing, “I got you, babe,” as you snap a selfie at this memorial to the music icon and former Palm Springs mayor. If you love Lucy, be sure to stop by and grab a selfie with her likeness cast in bronze on Palm Canyon Drive. Say, “cheese” – or better yet, “Vitameatavegamin!” If the charm of Palm Springs has you itching for more of its sunshine and intrigue, check out Pacaso’s Palm Springs listings and learn how Pacaso’s co-ownership model can help you own a luxury hideaway in this desert oasis.

Discover the freedom of global travel as a Pacaso owner in this webinar. Take an exclusive look at Pacaso’s exciting new owner swap benefits. Senior Director of Product, Lish Davis, will reveal how you can now exchange stays with fellow owners, opening doors to luxurious properties around the world.

February is an often-overlooked travel month, nestled between the busy holiday season and the excitement of spring break. Yet, its quieter crowds and milder temperatures make it an ideal time for a more laid-back getaway to popular destinations. Whether you’re looking to connect with nature, explore cultural hubs or feel the rush of adrenaline, these top February destinations promise to make your vacation one for the books. Scottsdale Escape the winter chill with a visit to La Jolla A beach town might not be the first place that comes to mind when considering places to travel at the tail end of winter, but New Orleans If a festive atmosphere and rich cultural experiences are what you seek, then look no further than New Orleans. February in The Big Easy offers a vibrant array of cultural events, from the world-renowned Mardi Gras to the Tet Fest, which celebrates Vietnamese New Year through food, music, and dance. February is also Black History Month, and the city hosts a series of performances and showcases in tribute. While it is peak season in New Orleans, the energy and excitement make it well worth the visit. Mardi Gras, in particular, is an experience everyone should witness at least once in their lifetime. In the days leading up to the big event, the city is filled with parades, lively street celebrations, music and, of course, beads. Plus, you can enjoy the city’s famous Creole cuisine without the sweltering summer heat. Savor traditional dishes like crawfish, gumbo, and the iconic king cake. Breckenridge February may be the best time to visit Paris Valentine’s Day in the City of Love may sound cliché, but there’s no denying that Looking for the perfect February getaway?

San Diego is a year-round destination with beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and action-packed sports. To help you make the most of your time in sunny SoCal, we've put together a list of some of our favorite seasonal events and activities to ensure there's always something exciting to do during your visit. Winter (December - February) Winter in San Diego provides a welcome escape from the snow and cold that blankets much of the nation. While temperatures may be cool by California standards, the mild weather allows the city's outdoor activities and attractions to be enjoyed throughout the season. From festive holiday celebrations to exciting spectator sports, San Diego’s winter months offer a perfect blend of relaxation and activity. Top events: Spring (March - May) Spring is one of the best times to visit San Diego, with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and a colorful display of flowers in bloom. San Diego’s event calendar kicks it up a notch this season as the days get longer and the sunshine gets warmer. Whether you’re dressing up for a sophisticated soirée or heading outdoors to soak in the scenery, spring in San Diego promises to be unforgettable. Top events: Honorable mention: Summer (June - August) Sun-drenched days and evenings under the stars await during the summer months, when San Diego truly comes alive. With an energetic beach scene and an equally as lively social scene, there is no shortage of activities or events to partake in. From enjoying the surf to the vibrant nightlife, San Diego’s hottest season is impossible to resist. Top events: Honorable mention: Fall (September - November) Autumn in San Diego is like golden hour, with clear skies and breathtaking sunsets over the ocean. The warm sea temperatures extend beach days into the fall months, while seasonal festivals usher in the excitement of the upcoming holidays. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the city’s natural beauty and festive atmosphere. Top events: Honorable mention: Make the most of San Diego’s idyllic weather and rich culture with the purchase of a second home. Explore Pacaso’s luxury vacation homes in La Jolla and the greater San Diego area and start living the life you’ve always dreamed of with those you cherish most.

With warm weather, ocean breezes and an impossibly beautiful coastline, it’s hard to go wrong with a trip to Cabo San Lucas. But with sunshine seemingly year-round, determining the best time to visit Cabo depends on what kind of experience you crave. Here’s our breakdown of the best time to travel to Cabo based on the seasons, costs, avoiding tourists and more.  Best months to visit Cabo While Cabo enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, certain months offer more ideal weather conditions. Here’s the best time to visit Cabo San Lucas based on weather preferences:  Cabo in December through April  This period is considered the peak season in Cabo due to consistently dry, sunny weather and comfortable temperatures. The ocean is typically calm, making it great for swimming, snorkeling and diving. While you may encounter larger crowds and higher prices during this time, the stunning weather and vibrant atmosphere make it well worth it. For those looking for a unique experience, Cabo in May and June  May and June mark the transition from the dry season to the rainy season. While temperatures remain warm, humidity starts to rise. This period offers a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds and lower prices. It's a great time to experience local culture, indulge in outdoor activities and enjoy the lush greenery. Cabo in July through September July, August and September fall within the rainy season in Cabo. While you can find lower prices on flights and accommodations, be prepared for higher humidity, occasional rain showers and potential tropical storms. While hurricanes are rare, tropical storms can bring heavy rainfall and strong winds. That said, the off-peak season also offers a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds. Cabo in October and November  October and November are shoulder months in Cabo, with a mix of good weather and great deals. While the weather can be hot and humid, the ocean remains calm, and the crowds are significantly smaller compared to the peak season. This period is ideal if you want a balance between affordability and pleasant weather. Cheapest time to visit Cabo If you're looking to score the best deals on flights and accommodations, consider visiting Cabo during the off-peak seasons. The shoulder months offer more affordable rates for Best time to avoid tourists in Cabo If you want to escape the crowds, the best time to go to Cabo is during the shoulder seasons. While you may encounter some crowds, especially during weekends and holidays, the overall atmosphere is significantly more relaxed than in the peak season. Key events in Cabo to plan around Cabo hosts a variety of exciting events throughout the year. If you want a taste of the local culture and festivities, consider planning your trip around these special occasions: Make Cabo your second home with Pacaso Once you know the best time to visit Cabo, you can tailor your trip to the experience you’re looking for.  And if you’re ready to make Cabo your personal paradise, consider a Hassle-free Pacaso vacation home. For just one-eighth of the cost, find your luxury vacation home in the

Both Aspen and Breckenridge are known for epic peaks and alpine atmospheres, but which is a better choice for your ski vacation this winter? To help you decide, we’ve dug into what each of these Colorado towns has to offer and how they differ.   Location, location, location First, let’s talk logistics. How easy is it to get to Aspen vs. Breckenridge?  Breckenridge is about a 90-minute drive from Denver, making it easily accessible whether you live in the city or you’re flying into the Denver airport. But Breckenridge’s proximity to a big city means its slopes can get pretty crowded during peak season. Aspen, about four hours from Denver, has its own small airport serviced by a limited number of major airlines. You might pay more for the convenience of flying in, but it’s nice to land right in the middle of the action. Ski space When it comes to skiable acres, Aspen comes out the clear winner. Aspen’s core village consists of three ski resorts — Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain and Buttermilk — which comprise 2,185 skiable acres across 238 runs. Add in Aspen Snowmass, just 30 minutes away, and you have another 3,132 acres and 94 runs, giving you a total of 5,317 skiable acres across 332 runs within a 10-mile radius. Breckenridge comes in at 2,908 skiable acres across 155 runs, but it’s all contained within a single ski resort, so you have more options than you might have at a single Aspen resort. Breckenridge also has five peaks, while Aspen has four. Aspen has a total of 37 lifts vs. 34 at Breckenridge, but Breckenridge also boasts the tallest chairlift in North America, the Bang for your buck Skiers and their money are soon parted, but if you’d like to postpone the sad farewell, Breckenridge will keep you and your cash together longer. For the 2021-22 ski season, a Breckenridge lift pass will cost you $80-$150 a day, while at Aspen you’ll spend $120-$180.  According to Alpine atmosphere and fun for non-skiers Not everyone is a fan of shredding the slopes, and fortunately both Aspen and Breckenridge have loads of fun winter activities for any non-skiers in your group. Check out opportunities for fat biking, ice skating, snowmobiling, dog sledding, fly fishing and more in and around both towns.  Breckenridge and Aspen are also walkable, with downtown shopping, galleries and museums when you need a break from the slopes. Aspen is a favorite ski destination among celebrities, so it has a more upscale, posh feel. Breckenridge is more laid-back, but still well-maintained and charming.  Mountain munchies When it comes to food, Breckenridge and Aspen offer a multitude of dining options, though Aspen leans toward fine dining while Breckenridge has a variety of casual eateries. If you’re looking for slopeside service, keep in mind that Breckenridge has only one full-service restaurant on the mountain, while Aspen has several. Winter events and festivities Finding a great During the winter months, Breckenridge is best known for its tree lighting and Race of the Santas to kick off the holiday season. December also brings Aspen takes its Ullr appreciation to a whole new level with family-friendly The bottom line When it comes to Aspen vs. Breckenridge, where should you go skiing this winter?  It depends on what you’re looking for.  You’ll spend a little more on travel, food, lodging and skiing at Aspen, and you might have fewer crowds to contend with. Breckenridge doesn’t have quite as many acres to ski and fewer dining options than Aspen, but it’s also less expensive, easier to access and has a more laid-back vibe.  The good news is that no matter which town you pick, both have plenty of slopes, runs and lifts to keep you busy, and both have enough festivals, eateries and fun activities to make Learn more If you’re dreaming of a second home in either of these ski destinations, check out Pacaso listings in

Florida has a lot to offer vacationers: year-round sunshine, gorgeous beaches, fun-filled attractions and more. According to Sun-worshiping vacationers flock to Florida during every month of the year, but if you’re hoping to ensure a great travel experience — and avoid crowds, hurricanes and high prices — here are a few things to consider.  What to expect each season in Florida Winter December, January and February are great months to visit Florida. While much of the country is battling cold weather and winter storms, the Sunshine State boasts temperatures in the 60s and low 70s in the northern region, and 70s and low 80s in South Florida. Rainy days are rare this time of year, making it a great time to explore.  You’ll enjoy fewer crowds than other times of the year, but keep in mind that Florida has roughly one million seasonal residents (aptly named “snowbirds” who flock to Florida during the colder months) so you’re not likely to have the beach all to yourself.  Spring Weather-wise, March, April and May are some of the best months in Florida. Sunny days abound and rain levels are minimal. Unsurprisingly, it’s also a busy time of year for tourists, so be prepared for higher-than-average hotel costs and plenty of people in and around popular tourist attractions.  If you plan to visit beach towns like Panama Beach and Daytona Beach but don’t want to relive your college years, avoid March and April. These towns, and a few others on the Florida Panhandle, turn into spring break hotspots for young revelers from around the country.   Summer Some like it hot, and if that’s you, visit Florida in June, July and August. Temperatures are regularly in the 80s and 90s, with high humidity and frequent afternoon storms. Temperatures can be even hotter inland, where you won’t have ocean breezes to cool you off.  Speaking of storms, it’s important to note that the Atlantic hurricane season traditionally begins in June, so be sure to pay attention to the weather forecast before and during your trip. Despite the soaring temperatures and hurricane risk, summer is still a popular time for visitors, especially families.  Fall Autumn brings slightly lower temperatures and smaller crowds, making it a great time to visit. Across the state, you’ll find fall festivals, from the Hotel rates start to drop after Labor Day, making the fall a more affordable time to visit. It’s important to remember that the Atlantic hurricane season runs through the end of October, with the most activity occurring between August and October. If you’re traveling to Florida during any part of hurricane season, it’s smart to buy travel insurance.   The best time to visit Florida theme parks  The Orlando area, the epicenter of American theme parks, is home to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort and LEGOLAND Florida, among others. You’ll also find no fewer than seven water parks to cool off on hot days. Any Disney aficionado will tell you there is no crowd-free day at Disney World or other area parks. However, you will find Florida theme parks to be less crowded right after the holiday season (January and February) and in September, once schools are back in session. Regardless of the season, your best bet is always a weekday trip.  The best time to visit Miami Miami is an action-packed South Florida destination every month of the year, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Winter offers the mildest weather, without the sky-high temperatures or sticky humidity. Yet you’ll have to contend with crowds and high hotel prices.  In summer, the temperature is hot but the deals are next level. The best time to visit the Florida Keys A 125-mile-long archipelago off the coast of South Florida, the Florida Keys are a unique destination. With island vibes and incredible natural beauty, the Keys are a bucket-list destination for many. But The Keys have distinct rainy and dry seasons. The rainy season runs from May to October, during which time the islands get the majority of their yearly rainfall — not to mention hurricane risk. The dry season is the most popular time to visit, as you’ll enjoy average temperatures in the 70s with very little rain. As with much of the state, prices and crowds are lower in the summer, but the weather can be unpredictable.  Find your year-round Florida getaway with Pacaso  If Florida is your favorite vacation destination, perhaps it’s time to make it official! As a second home owner in the Sunshine State, you’ll enjoy a place to call home, without the unpredictability of hotel costs. Pacaso has luxury vacation homes Have a property in mind?

Whether you’re looking for flower-filled meadows, roaring waterfalls or mountain vistas, hiking in Easy Telluride hikes Moderate Telluride hikes Challenging Telluride hikes

Fort Lauderdale revels in its natural setting, offering visitors enticing beaches, exotic botanical gardens and exciting boat tours. We did some digging beyond The Yard in Wilton Manors  This lush and serene village-like area of Fort Lauderdale is a cluster of quirky boutique shops and restaurants tucked away from the bustling downtown. Local favorites in The Yard include Anglins Fishing Pier If you’re looking for a bit of “vitamin sea” minus the sand, Broward County Main Library If an afternoon thunderstorm has you seeking shelter or you just need a break from the Florida sun, consider visiting the Yellow Green Farmers Market Local vendors offer fresh produce, handmade goods, craft beer and more at the Secret Woods Nature Center Like its name suggests, the 15th Street Fisheries Part restaurant, part entertainment, Coconuts Restaurant For fine dining with a lovely water view, Marando Farms and Ranch Milk Money Bar & Kitchen If you’re not into the seafood scene, Art walks For a dose of culture, you can stroll through Fort Lauderdale Beach Lastly, we include If you’re looking for other beach options, check out our list of the Looking for a second home? Now that you know where to find  hidden gems in Fort Lauderdale, you’ll need a home base. Pacaso can help you find your dream second home in the Fort Lauderdale area. Start today by checking out our

Depending on how you count, there are somewhere around 100,000 lakes in the United States, from tiny spots to the iconic Great Lakes, and everything in between. With so many bodies of water, it’s no wonder so many of us dream of lakefront living.  The lakes offer a myriad of charms: indescribable natural beauty, endless water sports and sandy beaches. Check out 10 of our favorite American lakes, then learn how you can discover your lakeside home away from home with Pacaso.  1. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada Surrounded by the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. Known for its crystal-clear waters, in some places the visibility is more than 70 feet. In the summer months, When snow falls and Tahoe’s many ski resorts open up, the beauty of Lake Tahoe is best seen from the side of a mountain. Take in gorgeous lake views from high atop ski runs at 2. Lake Arrowhead, California Lake Arrowhead is less than two hours from Los Angeles, but it’s a world away. Sitting among the San Bernardino Mountains in what’s affectionately known as the “Alps of Southern California,” this lake is the On the southwest side of the lake, 3. Flathead Lake, Montana As the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, Montana’s For a truly memorable experience, take a boat or ferry to Wild Horse Island. The largest island in the lake, this pristine natural area is home to wild horses, bighorn sheep, mule deer and bald eagles. Many visitors to Flathead Lake leave time to visit another famous Montana destination: 4. Lake Coeur d’Alene, Idaho When the last glaciers receded from the Pacific Northwest almost 15,000 years ago, Lake Coeur d’Alene was born. A crown jewel of the Pacific Northwest, the lake is at the center of all the action in this area. Beautiful beaches and an award-winning resort line the shore, and the In the summer months, explore the 25-mile body of water on your choice of watercraft, from relaxing chartered boat cruises to the adrenaline-pumping fun of a jet ski excursion. Stand-up paddleboards and kayaks are also popular. Want a birds-eye view of the beauty of Idaho? Take a scenic flight on a seaplane.  5. The Finger Lakes, New York As the name suggests, this vacation destination isn’t a single lake, but rather, a collection of eleven long, narrow lakes in picturesque upstate New York. Within driving distance from New York City, Toronto, Boston and Philadelphia, the While the Finger Lakes put on a beautiful show every month of the year, the fall is an idyllic time for a visit. Think warm days, cool nights and a rainbow of fall colors on the hillsides that surround the lakes. Still need convincing? The Finger Lakes area is also New York’s premier wine region, with more than 100 different vineyards and wineries and a reputation for a great riesling.  6. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire You may very well have to ask a local how to pronounce its name when you arrive, but Every summer, vacationers from the Eastern Seaboard flock to this 72-square-mile lake for boating, fishing, beachcombing, hiking and generally enjoying life at a slower pace. Return in the winter for ice fishing, snowmobiling, dogsledding and more.   7. Crater Lake, Oregon  Perhaps the most unique lake on our list, Unlike other lakes on the list, accessing the water in Oregon’s only national park is part of the adventure. It features steep cliffs on all sides, so you’ll need to take a two-mile hike down the Cleetwood Cove Trail, descending 700 feet of switchbacks to the shoreline. From there, you can board a boat tour that tells you all about the lake’s history and stops on storied Wizard Island, a volcanic cinder cone.  8. Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah Sure, Lake Powell may be a human-made creation —  it’s the second-largest reservoir in the United States, created by the damming of the Colorado River at Rent a houseboat or a speedboat and spend long summer days exploring the twists and turns of some 90 side canyons that make up this massive lake. Be sure to find your way to 9. Lake Lanier, Georgia  Also the result of the damming of a river — the Chattahoochee River, in this case — Georgia’s Despite the large number of visitors, there’s plenty of space, thanks to 700-plus miles of shoreline. Stop by a local marina to rent a pontoon boat, houseboat or jet ski. Book a fishing excursion in search of bass and walleye. Or enjoy food truck fare and live music every Friday at 10. Lake Champlain, New York and Vermont It’s not every day that you can splash around in a lake that has played a pivotal role in not one, not two, but three American wars. But you can do it on Lake Champlain, located on the border of New York and Vermont. Pop into the In the warm weather months, enjoy a kayak excursion, cast a line for largemouth bass or swim from the shore of a sandy beach. Intrepid winter travelers return for ice fishing, snowmobiling and even a classic game of pond hockey.  Discover lakefront luxury Pacaso makes it easy to become a second home owner in a l

Cape Cod National Golf Club in Brewster Named one of the top 20 courses in Massachusetts by Golf Digest, the Farm Neck Golf Club in Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard Take the ferry to the island of Martha’s Vineyard and play a round at the Miacomet Golf Course on Nantucket The Captains in Brewster  In the self-proclaimed “golf capital of the Lower Cape,” Highland Links in Truro Established in 1892, the 9-hole Cape Cod Country Club in East Falmouth Billed as the classic Cape Cod golf experience, Tee it high and let it fly on Cape Cod How long would it take you to golf all 40+ courses on Cape Cod and the surrounding areas? There’s only one way to find out! Make a

Sit back, close your eyes and picture your dream vacation destination. Are you envisioning warm tropical breezes, swaying palm trees and tropical drinks with little umbrellas? Or are you thinking of white-capped mountain peaks, falling snow and a crackling fire?  When it comes to the eternal beach vs. mountains debate, both are clear winners for differing reasons. Check out our list of five things to love about each option.  Why beaches are best  1. Year-round warm weather  Especially for travelers looking to escape harsh winters, most beach destinations offer sunny skies, balmy weather and warm breezes much of the year. Did you know Miami’s average high temperature in February is 75 degrees? Even Southern California beach communities like 2. Wonderful watersports  While many beachgoers simply want a lounge chair and a good book, beach getaways are also great for the more active set. Depending on the beach you choose, you’ll find all kinds of great on-the-water (and in-the-water) activities. Spend sunny days sailing, fishing, kayaking, swimming, paddle boarding, surfing or even parasailing.  3. A sunny social scene You’re not the only one who loves the beach — a vibrant social scene usually emerges as people flock to the shore. Whether you prefer casual beachside restaurants, al fresco fine dining, or clubs and nightlife, you can find it all in many beach towns. 4. Ample opportunities to relax  There’s something about the sound of crashing waves that washes away all your worries. Go ahead: Tie up that hammock between two palm trees, climb in and start to unwind!  5. Easy to access  Getting to a great beach doesn’t require lots of logistics and multiple modes of transportation. Jetsetters can easily access popular beach destinations on both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts with direct flights, even if you only have a few days to spend.  Why mountains are a must 1. Cozy time Is there anything more idyllic than a mountain home in winter? With snow falling outside and a warm fire inside, a mountain retreat is the perfect place for a winter getaway. Who needs to go outside, anyway?  2. Outdoor adventures When the mountains are calling, bundle up and head out to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling or even dogsledding! Plus, if you’re lucky enough to have a second home in a popular resort destination like 3. Apres-ski activities  After a long day on the slopes, there’s no better way to relax than with a craft cocktail and an award-winning meal. In popular ski destinations like Breckenridge and 4. Natural beauty  There’s something almost magical about life in the mountains. A mountain retreat encourages disconnecting from the hustle and bustle (set the smartphone down!) and reconnecting with the simpler pleasures of life. Gorgeous mountain vistas and incredible flora and fauna don’t hurt, either!  5. Superb solitude  Do you hear that? It’s the sound of … silence. People seeking peace and quiet often head to higher altitudes to escape the crowds, surround themselves with nature and enjoy the myriad benefits of a little time to themselves.  Beach vs. mountain: Find your ideal escape  No matter your choice, Pacaso offers a smarter way to buy and own a second home. As a co-owner of a Pacaso, you never have to worry about maintenance or management. Simply arrive, unpack and hit the beach — or the slopes. Check out our