10 Underrated Areas to Buy a Vacation Home

While it’s a blessing to be able to tour the world – go anywhere, anytime – it’s also nice to have a vacation home with roots. You’ll have the reassurance of an ever-present haven whenever you need to escape the rigors of everyday life.  

If your idea of a haven is somewhere with quiet shorelines, friendly locals, and a wonderful selection of restaurants and shops, we have the only list you’ll need. In each of the areas below, you’ll enjoy easy access to a variety of nature’s wonders and an affordable housing market – relatively speaking, that is. Ready to start dreaming? 

Encinitas, California

Located in Southern California, just about 25 miles north of San Diego, you have this little jewel by the Pacific. With its beautiful beaches, like Moonlight and Swami, you don’t have to go far to meet kindred sun-seekers, surfers, or lovers of the sea. 

Given its location, the weather is almost perfect year-round. Picture beachside yoga, endless trails of wonder, and people biking home with flowers in their baskets. Best of all, you’ll find a strong sense of community every time you visit. Encinitas is known for its art festivals, local farmers’ markets, and a bustling downtown filled with delightful shops, cafes, and restaurants. 

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine isn’t underrated, per se. Plenty of people love to visit this city, as part of one of the nation’s prettiest states. But, when we tend to think of buying a vacation home on the East Coast, places further south often spring to mind, like the Carolinas or Florida. Meanwhile, if you put Portland on the list for consideration, you’re looking at the perfect mix of coastal beauty, small-town charm, and big-city amenities. 

With a fresh lobster roll in hand, it will only enhance those stunning ocean views. Old Port, in particular, will be one of your favorite spots for date night, with its cobblestone streets, unique boutiques, and top-shelf restaurants. Then, of course, all your outdoor desires will be met when you consider the bevy of opportunities to hike, kayak, sail, and absorb all of nature’s wonders. 

Bend, Oregon

Let’s move to the other coastline, with its own brand of beauty. Nestled at the edge of the Cascade Mountains, it truly has it all. The natural beauty here is enough to take your breath away. To no surprise, you can stay active here, as well, with beautiful hiking, biking, and ski trails. You’ll also look forward to taking your kayak out on the water in the spring and summer, as well. 

Although we often associate this corner of the country with those beautiful, misty days, Bend actually sees about 300 days of sunshine each year. That means, after you’ve enjoyed your time out on the trails or out on the water, you can head into town to walk around, enjoy the atmosphere, and order a pint from your favorite craft brewery. 

Taos, New Mexico

Taos couldn’t be better positioned. It’s warmly embraced on either side by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Here, too, you’ll enjoy that beautiful downtown feel as you explore the local shops and cafes. But, it’s particularly special in Taos because it’s infused with the spiritual echoes of the Native American and Spanish cultures. 

The moment you arrive, you’ll sense the community’s welcoming and diverse nature. You’ll also admire its respect for local traditions and sustainability. Even though you can partake in all the lovely outdoor activities we’ve already mentioned, Taos has a special desert charm you can’t find anywhere else.