Vacation home destinations

Wondering about the best place to buy a vacation home? We’ve analyzed destinations based on factors like safety, walkability and weather to deliver 25 great places to buy a vacation home. Let’s dive into the top 10, plus we’ll share how to enjoy a luxurious vacation home without the hassles of solo ownership. 1. Hudson, New York Hudson, located in the Hudson Valley, offers a charming escape brimming with history and artistry. Rolling hills surround the town, providing a picturesque natural backdrop and making it a wonderful place for a second home. Beyond its natural beauty, Hudson boasts a rich history and an eclectic arts scene. Explore the historic architecture of Warren Street, a charming main street lined with 18th and 19th-century buildings. Visit Art galleries showcase the works of local and regional artists, while music venues and theaters host a variety of performances. Foodies will delight in the farm-to-table cuisine offered by the many restaurants that showcase fresh, seasonal ingredients from the surrounding Hudson Valley. Speaking of seasons, Hudson's high comfort index of 9.1 suggests a pleasant climate with mild temperatures that most people will find enjoyable year-round. 2. Portsmouth, New Hampshire Portsmouth is a gem for those seeking to Beyond its rich past, Portsmouth is a vacation destination for all seasons. Summer brings the This city has a 9.2 comfort index similar to that of nearby Hudson, New York. The safety score of 2 indicates that Portsmouth may be a safer — although more expensive — vacation home destination.  3. Sandusky, Ohio Located on one of the Great Lakes, Sandusky is a great destination for water enthusiasts. Multiple water parks options cater to all preferences. Sandusky has a bustling tourist season, so consider the 4. San Diego, California San Diego basks in sunshine, making it ideal for those who crave a warm-weather escape. This coastal city offers a plethora of outdoor activities and stunning beaches amidst a relaxed When considering a vacation home in San Diego, remember that neighborhoods offer distinct experiences. La Jolla boasts luxurious beachfront living, while Pacific Beach provides a lively atmosphere close to the beach. Mission Beach offers a classic boardwalk experience, and Coronado Island delivers a charming island getaway.  Don’t let the median home sale price scare you. A 9.22 cap rate in San Diego indicates that those looking to purchase real estate are likely to gain a good amount of equity in Southern California. 5. Cape Cod, Massachusetts Summer is peak season, bustling with activity and offering the warmest weather. Shoulder seasons provide comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Choose a village close to the beach if you crave a vibrant summer atmosphere. If tranquility is your priority, consider a more secluded spot. Cape Cod's safety score and comfort index tell us that it is a great place to bring the kids as the seasons change. 6. Harbor Springs, Michigan On the shore of Lake Michigan, Harbor Springs offers an escape that transforms throughout the year. When considering a vacation home in Harbor Springs, remember that the town offers a variety of settings. The core village, centered around Main Street, bustles with shops and restaurants, while the surrounding areas, like Wequetonsing and Bay Harbor, provide a more secluded atmosphere.  Lakefront property on Little Traverse Bay offers stunning views and water access, while tucked-away cabins near Hidden Lake offer peaceful retreats. With the highest safety score possible, Harbor Springs is a prime destination for 7. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin Wisconsin Dells, also known as the "Waterpark Capital of the World," is a Midwest Take a break from water slides to explore the Dells' breathtaking natural beauty. Kayak or canoe down the Wisconsin River, spelunk in scenic caves or hike through towering sandstone cliffs at The Dells also boasts a bustling downtown with shops, restaurants and family-friendly entertainment options like 8. Healdsburg, California Healdsburg offers a compelling blend of sophistication, world-class wineries and outdoor adventure — making it a romantic destination for wine lovers seeking a California retreat. Located in the middle of Explore rolling vineyards by bike, indulge in wine tastings at boutique wineries, or take a hot air balloon ride for breathtaking aerial views. The area also boasts plenty of A high comfort index lets you know that you can enjoy plenty of days outdoors if you buy a vacation home here. A higher safety score also indicates this is a family-friendly destination in the heart of Wine Country. 9. Ocean City, Maryland Ocean City is an attractive vacation home destination with its vibrant three-mile boardwalk and a family-friendly atmosphere. Beyond the iconic boardwalk with its amusement rides, arcades and delicious treats, Ocean City offers a variety of things to do. Thrill-seekers can tackle the waves at Nature lovers can explore the nearby Although it has a lower safety score, the relatively high comfort index indicates that Ocean City is a good place to own an off-season beach house for those looking to be further away from the boardwalk. 10. Bend, Oregon Bend is an outdoor paradise offering a great blend of adventure, craft beer culture and stunning natural beauty. Outdoor enthusiasts seeking more active vacations will love this vacation home destination. Surrounded by towering ponderosa pines and majestic mountains, Bend caters to all seasons. Hike or bike well-marked trails, explore cascading waterfalls like Deschutes Falls, or go whitewater rafting down the Deschutes River. Bend also boasts a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering tours and tastings. Foodies will delight in the town's innovative restaurants, many featuring locally sourced ingredients. Summer, spring and fall offer comfortable weather for exploring. With so many hikes and winter sports activities available, a car is necessary to enjoy all that Bend offers. A higher safety score means peace of mind while hitting the slopes or exploring the charming downtown. Top 25 best places to buy a vacation home Co-own a vacation home with Pacaso If you want to own a vacation home but are worried about the commitment and expense, Pacaso offers a revolutionary approach to second home ownership. Pacaso Pacaso takes care of everything: professional home design and furnishings, property management and, maintenance, and easy online scheduling. You spend your time relaxing and creating memories in your dream destination. Methodology Here are the factors we used to analyze 100 cities and find the 25 best places to buy a vacation home.

If you love the activities that make Vail, Colorado, a famous From golf and garden exploring to fly fishing and white water rafting, our guide offers 25 top activities to enjoy during your trip to Vail this summer. 1. Wander the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens Topping our list is one of the most popular things to do in Vail. As the world’s highest-altitude botanical garden at 8,200 feet, the 2. Visit the Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame The 3. Sample 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits 4. Try new sports at Vail Ski Resort 5. Sip some brews at Vail Brewing Company 6. Explore Lionshead Village Scenic 7. Enjoy outdoor concerts at The Amp Fittingly located next door to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the 8. Taste summer’s bounty at the Vail Farmers Market If you are looking for a fun and delicious way to hang out in Vail in the summer, you should check out the 9. Play outside at Piney River Ranch 10. Play a round of golf surrounded by mountains  The award-winning 11. Have an adventure at Epic Discovery A true mountain playground for daredevils of all ages, 12. Get your blood pumping at Vail Nordic Center 13. Ride the Eagle Bahn Gondola The 14. Take a self-guided art walk at Vail Village Vail Village is a charming Bavarian-style ski village, making it a lovely place to spend an afternoon. Discover the incredible 55 works of public art that are spread throughout town. To see them all, you’ll want to stop by the welcome center to pick up a free map. Guided tours are also available during the summer.  15. Catch a sunrise or sunset at Bighorn Park 16. Make friends with a llama Yes, really. 17. Explore the Vail Nature Center  The 18. Go whitewater rafting Cool off on a hot summer day with an exhilarating ride down the Colorado and Arkansas Rivers. Local outfitters offer a range of rafting options, from kid-friendly introductory trips to technical rafting experiences with rapids up to Class IV. Looking for something a little more relaxing? Opt for a low-key float trip through Browns Canyon, where your guide will do all the paddling.  19. Sample wines from around the world  20. Enjoy tubing in Vail Relish in the thrill of tubing in Vail while being surrounded by the greenery and beauty of the Colorado mountains. 21. Fly through the sky on a zip line Soar through the air and enjoy the scenic views of Colorado. If you are looking for a zip line adventure in Vail, you have plenty of options to choose from in the summer. You can zip line over the Colorado River, through the alpine forests or across the Rocky Mountains. Tours vary in length, difficulty and price, but they all guarantee a memorable and exciting experience. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can find a zip line tour that suits your level of adventure and budget. 22. Bike Vail’s trails Vail offers many trails and paths for cyclists of all levels and abilities. You can enjoy the fresh air and stunning views as you pedal along the paved and dirt roads or cruise through downtown Vail. Whether you want to challenge yourself with steep climbs and descents, or relax and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace, there is a route for you in Vail. 23. See Vail on horseback Horseback riding in Vail is a great way to enjoy the scenic beauty of summer in the Rocky Mountains. Whether you are a beginner or an expert rider, you can find a trail that suits your skill level and preferences. You can choose from half-day, full-day or overnight trips, and explore the alpine meadows, aspen forests and wildflower fields with your friendly steed. 24. Spend the day fly fishing Vail is a popular destination for fly fishing enthusiasts, as it offers a variety of rivers and streams to explore. Some of the best spots for fly fishing in Vail are Eagle River, Gore Creek and the Colorado River. You will need a fishing license, which you can buy online or at local shops. Enjoy the scenic views and the fresh mountain air that make Vail a perfect place for fly fishing.  25. See it all with a hot air balloon ride If you’re looking for one of the most thrilling things to do in Vail in summer, consider taking a hot air balloon ride. A hot air balloon ride is a great way to experience the stunning scenery of the Rocky Mountains from a bird's-eye view. You can soar over the lush green valleys and sparkling rivers, enjoying the peace and tranquility of the clear blue sky. Vail, Colorado, is a nature lover's dream. Although the town is famous for its winter sports scene, there are plenty of things to do in Vail in summer as well. If you could see yourself in this year-round paradise, skip the vacation rentals and consider investing in a

Whether you’re From gourmet seafood to classic California cuisine using fresh, local ingredients, we've rounded up 13 beachside restaurants that can take any Santa Barbara stay to the next level, and we've ordered them from most affordable to most expensive: 1. On The Alley Tucked away near the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, 2. Chad’s  With an enviable location adjacent to Santa Barbara Harbor, 3. Shoreline Beach Cafe   Grabbing a bite to eat before a day spent at the beach is easy when your restaurant of choice is literally on the beach. 4. Santa Barbara Shellfish Company You can’t get more waterfront than dining on a pier! 5. Boathouse at Hendry's Beach For sunset cocktails, a romantic dinner or a celebratory evening, book a table at the 6. Moby Dick 7. Brophy Bros Enjoy American cuisine overlooking the Santa Barbara Marina at 8. Bluewater Grill Specializing in seafood and local cuisine, 9. Tydes Enjoy indoor-outdoor fine dining at If you can see yourself enjoying all that Santa Barbara has to offer — including its rapidly growing food scene — consider owning your own 10. Padaro Beach Grill 11. Bella Vista 12. Toma Restaurant & Bar Open for dinner only, the award-winning 13. OKU Restaurant Savor the good life Want to turn Santa Barbara into your go-to vacation destination? Become a co-owner of a beautiful

No matter the season, the town of Bend in Central Oregon is simply bursting with 1. Discover Oregon WinterFest  Hosted in Bend every February, the three-day 2. Hit the slopes  Bend is a jumping-off point for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The town is just 30 minutes from 3. Go ice skating  Lace up your skates and choose from multiple ice rinks around town. 4. Take a dog sled ride Mush! Mush! Take a sled dog tour through snowy meadows with incredible mountain views. 5. Warm up at a family-friendly brewery  Bend regularly tops lists of cities with the most (and most delicious) breweries, and luckily for parents, many of them are family-friendly. Choose from close to two dozen breweries including the well known Find your family’s second home in Bend There’s no better place to make family memories than in a

Ideally located south of West Palm Beach and north of vibrant urban hubs like Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Delray Beach offers a melting pot of food cultures and styles.  Whether you’re looking for a casual spot to gather with friends, the perfect date night destination or you just want to sample something new, these six Delray Beach restaurants are yours for the taking.  City Oyster & Sushi Bar  Calling all seafood lovers. This downtown restaurant serves up an ever-changing menu of fresh oysters from both the East Coast and West Coast. It’s the perfect date night restaurant, thanks to a huge wine list, full sushi menu and plenty of ambience — the decor at Cabana El Ray  The greater Miami area is simply bursting with Cuban culture, and in Delray Beach, Dada Every visit to Papa’s Tapas  If you’re the kind of person who wants to try a little bit of everything instead of committing to one entree, head to El Camino  Satisfy your craving for flavorful Mexican fare at Lionfish  The Delray Beach outpost of the famous Lionfish Seafood restaurant in San Diego, Dine anytime in Delray Beach As the co-owner of a luxury

It’s only about 220 miles from San Diego to Santa Barbara — roughly a 3.5- to 4-hour trip, assuming L.A. traffic isn’t bad. But as you travel between these two sunny cities, give yourself ample time to explore. Choose one or two of the following destinations, or extend your adventure and check out all seven as you make your way north. Just pack your favorite road trip snacks, buckle up, and hit the road! Grab a Hodad’s burger in San Diego A San Diego institution for over 50 years, Catch some waves in Encinitas The quintessential SoCal beach town of Encinitas is just up the road from San Diego proper, along historic Highway 101. Nearby Embrace your inner child at Legoland  Just 10 miles north of Encinitas is Get back to nature at Crystal Cove  For an alternative to the Legoland crowds, continue driving an hour north to Laguna Beach, and discover one of Orange County’s largest open wilderness areas, Play tourist at Santa Monica Pier  Travel for another 60 or so miles to reach Santa Monica, just west of Los Angeles. As a National Historic Landmark and the western end of iconic Route 66, it’s no wonder Live the celebrity life in Malibu  From Santa Monica, a quick 30-minute drive along a southern stretch of coastline brings you to the chic enclave of Malibu. When you arrive, keep your eyes peeled — many Hollywood celebrities call this beach town home, so you never know who you’ll spot. And while you’re in Malibu, you can embrace the laid-back luxury, no matter your celebrity status. Sink your toes into the sand during low tide at Take a detour to the Channel Islands  Due west of Malibu in the Pacific Ocean, the five islands that make up Say cheers at a Santa Barbara winery  Back on the mainland, and a little over an hour from Malibu, you’ll reach Santa Barbara. The town has a great reputation among wine lovers, and it’s easy to see why. Right in town, you’ll find a whopping 28 tasting rooms along the Find your own California paradise  If you fall in love with one of these great destinations, why not become a regular?

Dreaming of a vacation home in Lake Tahoe? Who wouldn’t be, with its crystal-clear alpine waters, stunning vistas and endless year-round recreation opportunities. But before you take the plunge (the water’s cold!), here are five key questions to ask yourself.  1. What type of home fits my needs?  As a popular multi-season vacation and recreation destination, Tahoe offers all kinds of properties, from condos and timeshares to single-family homes and full-fledged mountain chalets. Vacation home owners in Tahoe tend to pick properties based on their personal interests — would you rather be close to one of Lake Tahoe’s 2. How much can I afford? Just like any real estate purchase, what you can afford comes down to your interest rate, down payment amount and your level of comfort with the monthly payment. When considering a Tahoe vacation home, however, there are a couple more factors you should keep in mind.  First, you may be considering using the home as a vacation rental, given the area’s popularity with tourists. If so, you’ll need to factor in property management fees, increased maintenance costs and potential tax intricacies. Second, Lake Tahoe gets an average of 200-plus inches of snow each year, so winter maintenance like snow removal is crucial to keeping your home in good condition, and it can be expensive — as well as tricky to manage from afar.  To maximize your vacation home budget, consider 3. Where should I buy in Tahoe? Believe it or not, there’s no actual city called “Lake Tahoe.” The famous lake is called Lake Tahoe, of course, but the name also refers to the entire area surrounding this recreation destination. The lake itself straddles the California-Nevada border, and the biggest towns are on the north and south ends of the lake, as well as along the Truckee River. Here’s a quick rundown:  4. How often will I use the home? According to our When you buy with Pacaso, you can co-own as much of a single-family home as you’ll use for just a fraction of the cost of full ownership — and you’ll never have to worry about it sitting unused.  5. Would renting it out cover my ownership costs? When you’re buying a second home in a popular destination like Lake Tahoe, it can be tempting to try to recoup some of your ownership costs by turning it into a vacation rental. However, the vacation rental market in Lake Tahoe is highly seasonal, with the bulk of rentals taking place during the relatively short winter and summer recreation seasons. And, when you factor in property management fees, it can be hard to make short-term rentals pencil out. In addition, short-term rental regulations in some municipalities can restrict owners from offering nightly rentals of their properties. One benefit of Pacaso is that homes are occupied only by owners and their guests, and they are never rented. This means you are free to enjoy your second home without the stress and hassle of managing a rental property.  Discover your Lake Tahoe second home with Pacaso If snowy winters, sun-kissed summers and incredible natural beauty are your top criteria for a second home destination, Lake Tahoe might be just the right place for you. Take the first step by

Traveling solo has so many advantages. You can tailor your adventures for you and you alone. Want to splurge on a destination resort or a fine meal? Prefer to relax in a spa or go for a hike? The decisions are all yours.  To help you narrow your choices, we’ve conducted a city study of 20+ places ideal for solo travel. Since We analyzed four key solo travel factors:  Whether you’re a retired 1. Atlanta, Georgia Topping our list is Atlanta, one of the best places to travel alone. Solo travelers can stroll or bike along the vibrant Dive into the underwater wonders at the 2. Tampa, Florida Ready to Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Southeast coast? Head to 3. Santa Fe, New Mexico 4. Scottsdale, Arizona Calling all Hike the trails in the 5. Jackson Hole, Wyoming With the second highest safety score, Slither down the Snake River for an unforgettable rafting trip. As far as indoor activities are concerned, the 6. Las Vegas, Nevada Is the famous Las Vegas Strip calling your name? Marvel at iconic landmarks like the 7. Boise, Idaho Boise is known as the “City of Trees” due to the 4.7 million acres of forest surrounding the urban scene. The blend of amenities and nature makes Boise one of the best places to solo travel. Stroll along the 8. Virginia Beach, Virginia At the 9. Napa Valley, California Take a hot air balloon ride for a breathtaking view of the valley's rolling hills from above. Visit charming towns like 10. Sedona, Arizona Visitors often describe 11. Austin, Texas Welcome to Austin, the live music capital of the world. Immerse yourself in the live music scene by visiting iconic venues like 12. San Diego, California If the sunshine of 13. Portland, Maine Solo travelers can visit Portland’s historic Old Port district, known for its cobblestone streets and local shops. Explore the 14. Nantucket, Massachusetts Nantucket is a quaint island destination with a lot to offer solo travelers. Explore the island's beautiful beaches, such as 15. Ann Arbor, Michigan Ann Arbor is a vibrant college town with a variety of activities for solo travelers. Consider catching a performance or exhibition at the 16. Miami, Florida Begin your solo beach vacation to Take a walk along the 17. Chicago, Illinois Chicago is a bustling metropolis with a wealth of solo traveler-friendly activities. Explore 18. New York City, New York New York City — where solo travel dreams come true. Blend into the crowd at 19. Lake Tahoe, California Visit 20. Bend, Oregon Capping our list of the top 20 destinations for solo travelers is Top 50 solo travel destinations Here are the 50 top destinations for solo travelers — and all places to potentially Solo traveler checklist Solo travel can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it also requires careful planning to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here's a checklist to help you prepare for your solo adventure. While traveling When traveling solo, remember to stay flexible, be open to new experiences and prioritize your safety throughout your journey.  Methodology This study was conducted in September 2023. To determine the best destinations for solo travelers in the United States, we compared four ranking factors across 50 cities. The following ranking factors were used to determine how suitable a city is for solo travelers and assigned out of a weight of 100: Each solo travel destination was given a score based on these factors and assigned an overall ranking. The destinations with the highest scores were deemed the best destinations for solo travelers in the United States. Our data was sourced from City-Data.com, Salary.com, Tripadvisor and Speedtest.net Since safety, affordability, connectivity and the number of attractions were determining factors, the best destinations for solo travelers could also be the best places to find your Thanks to 

For some, there’s nothing better than a laid back holiday at the shore — sun, waves and miles of beach to explore. Others want their time off to be bursting with city charms — bustling shopping streets, new restaurants and museums to discover.  Here’s our take on what makes both great destinations — plus, an option for creating your very own home away from home. Why cities are the best 1. Food for all Great cities mean great restaurants — from high-end fine dining establishments to cozy neighbourhood cafes. Avoid touristy hot-spot areas and spend some time scoping out restaurants that really deliver the goods. 2. Soak up the culture  The rhythm and energy of a city are almost palpable, especially in a capital like London. The hustle and bustle of throngs of people going about their daily life mixes with a rich history and fascinating architecture. Even a short visit gives you a real sense of place. 3. See the sites  Every city is home to must-see sites, and London is no exception, with Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, The London Eye, just to name a few. Check those off your to-do list if you’d like, but try exploring off the beaten path. Lesser-known pockets of any city may surprise and delight you. 4. Move like a local Tube, bus, electric bike or scooter? With a wide selection of public transport on offer in most cities, exploring has never been easier. Moving like a local is also a great way to see the city in a different light. Whether you’re squeezing onto an overpacked tube at rush hour or cruising down a street with the wind on your face — there’s no wrong way to get around. 5. Ticket for one A city break is the ideal trip if you want to spend some time on your own. Linger at an outdoor cafe with a new book, watch people in a city park or snag a ticket for a hot show. There’s plenty of entertainment on offer, and London — home to approximately 250 theatres — is a great place to watch productions such as “Les Misérables,” “The Phantom of the Opera” or edgy new work from an up-and-coming playwright.  Why beach holidays are the best 1. More time to relax  In our fast-paced lives, having dedicated time to switch off and do nothing is a true luxury. Life seems to slow down by the water, with nowhere to be but the beach. It’s much easier to fully relax and unwind with the sound of waves in the background. 2. Fun in the sun The best beach holidays happen under sunny skies — and starry nights. With an average of 320 sunny days every year, Spain’s Costa del Sol or “sunshine coast” is an ideal year-round destination.  3. Make a splash Swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, surfing or simply walking along the shore line —  a beach holiday is the perfect time to get active. In the summer months, the sea temperature in Marbella reaches the mid to high 20s, whilst over the winter it drops to a manageable 15 degrees. Spain, here we come! 4. Catch of the day A beach holiday needn’t mean you forgo eating great local food. Many of Marbella´s beach restaurants serve right to sunbed, offering a wide variety of fresh seafood and delicious Spanish delights. A beach holiday is the perfect time to dine on the local catch of the day.   5. Feeling beachy  There’s nothing quite like spending an entire day at the beach to leave you feeling relaxed and recharged. The potent mix of the sun’s vitamin D, alluring waves and warm sand  offers the perfect cure for a stressful lifestyle.  Find your perfect escape Pacaso offers amazing holiday homes in more than 40 destinations worldwide, so we have you covered whether you love escaping to the beach or the city. Find a

There’s so much to love about Sarasota and Naples, two sunny cities on the southwestern coast of Florida. When you’re looking for warm Gulf of Mexico waters, white-sand beaches and incredible sunsets, both offer them in spades. But how do you decide where to visit or even buy a second home? Here’s our quick comparison of these two Florida dream destinations.  Beaches  Both cities have incredible stretches of public beaches and world-class sunsets, but if you’re a classic beachcomber, looking for wide stretches of sand on which to relax, play and wander, Sarasota is the clear winner. The area is home to Siesta Key Beach, which is a regular winner on best beaches list from TripAdvisor, the Travel Channel and Dr. Beach, who lauds Siesta Key’s fine sand, clear water and outdoor recreational options.   Outdoor activities  Naples and Sarasota offer a range of recreational activities, thanks to ample days of sunshine and waterfront locations. However, Naples has the edge in outdoor recreation, starting with its huge sportfishing scene — the 1,000-foot-long Luxury living  It’s no surprise that these two waterfront cities appeal to those looking to live in luxury. Both cities have gorgeous waterfront homes, chic condos and yacht clubs, but Naples is the clear winner in luxury living, with a higher median home price. The city has a stylish vibe and is simply brimming with designer boutiques, upscale eateries, art galleries and impeccably groomed pedestrian paths.  Family activities  For a beach-loving family, either destination fits the bill. But overall, Sarasota offers more family-friendly activities than Naples, which tends to cater more to a retiree crowd. On any given day in Sarasota, families can discover native and exotic plants and animals at the Cultural activities  With almost triple the population of Naples, Sarasota is simply a bigger city, and with that comes more opportunities for cultural enrichment. Sarasota boasts a vibrant bayfront downtown, which serves as the area’s civic and cultural hub. A day spent exploring downtown will uncover the Dining Fresh seafood is always on the menu in Southwest Florida, with catches coming in around the clock from the Gulf of Mexico. But Naples has the edge as far as the dining scene goes, with an incredible 700 restaurants. Naples has an awesome selection of epic brunch restaurants, plus everything from food trucks to fine dining later in the day. Best of all, many of the city’s best dining establishments also boast incredible water views.  Nightlife Naples offers a quieter scene, with restaurants and entertainment venues closing earlier. That makes Sarasota the winner as far as nightlife goes. Throughout town, you’ll find great happy hours, live music, bars, dance clubs and comedy venues. Did we mention the tiki bars? There’s nothing like ending your day with your toes in the sand and an umbrella in your drink.  You can’t go wrong in Naples or Sarasota  No matter which city you choose, there’s so much to explore — much more than you can do in just a weekend. Become a Florida local when you

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

Picture a classic California boardwalk: A towering wooden roller coaster, brightly colored amusement park rides and a humming arcade — all set against a backdrop of palm trees and the blue ocean. You’ve just conjured up the Getting there  The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is just 10 minutes from downtown Santa Cruz, a beach town of 62,000 located 70 miles south of San Francisco and 35 miles north of Monterey that's known for sandy beaches, redwood forests and great surfing.  But the boardwalk is an anchor of waterfront fun. Especially in the summer months and on weekends, the boardwalk area can get crowded and finding parking can be a challenge, so plan to arrive early in the day.   Attractions  The boardwalk is home to two National Historic Landmarks: the 1911 Looff Carousel and the 1924 Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster. These two attractions are a great place to start your day of fun. After you’ve crossed those two classic rides off your list, you’ll find a wide range of rides for everyone from little kids to serious thrill-seekers. Favorites include the Sea Swings, Sky Glider, bumper cards, Wave Rider slide and the Cyclone.  The rides are just the beginning, though. There are two on-site arcades, miniature golf, laser tag, bowling and a spooky Fright Walk, which takes brave visitors under the Boardwalk for some haunting fun.  Be sure to save time to test your luck on a few classic carnival games on the Midway. Try long-shot basketball, knock down some clowns, bust some balloons or knock over a stack of milk bottles in pursuit of stuffed animal prizes.  Admission to the boardwalk itself is free, but you’ll have to pay for the rides and other attractions. Savvy visitors and those who enjoy the attractions regularly may want to opt for the unlimited wristbands or even a season pass. The food It’s always best to arrive at the boardwalk hungry, as the classic carnival fare is almost impossible to resist. Treat yourself to corn dogs, garlic fries, turkey legs or pizza. Ready to indulge your sweet tooth? Choose from saltwater taffy, churros, funnel cakes, deep-fried Twinkies, ice cream in freshly made waffle cones, and more. You’ll also find espresso, fresh-squeezed lemonade and local craft beers.  Special events  No matter the time of year you visit, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers plenty of special events. Choose from fun runs, cultural events, outdoor concerts, movie nights, food and drink-related events, and holiday celebrations. Visiting during non-peak times can mean great discounts and perks, such as discounted arcade games on weekdays and Monday night football specials. In the winter months, you can reserve a private fire pit so you can stay warm while enjoying your favorite snacks and treats.  The beach Despite its proximity to the action-packed boardwalk, the beach here is delightfully clean and primed for family fun. Enjoy a wide sandy shoreline, warmer-than-expected water and ample space for recreation like boogie boarding and beach volleyball. If you’re traveling with young kids, head for the area where the San Lorenzo River meets Monterey Bay. It’s a great place for the youngest of beach lovers to splash around in small pools of calm water. Beach facilities include public restrooms and lifeguards in the busy summer months.  Enjoy life on the California coast  Santa Cruz makes the perfect home base for enjoying everything Central California has to offer. With a luxury