Five Small Towns to Buy a Vacation Home in 2022

Just in time for our 2022 inaugural Second Shelters column, Travel + Leisure published its list of best small towns in America to buy a vacation home. Though they span the nation coast to coast, all have one thing in common —understated luxury in a serene, peaceful environment.

“Since the pandemic, we have seen a boom of interest in suburbs, secondary cities, and vacation markets in the U.S. and around the world,” said Philip White, president and CEO of Sotheby’s International Realty. “That trend has endured, and I envision buyers will continue to seek out locations that offer space, natural beauty, relaxed lifestyles, and larger properties.”

The No. 1 draw: Lake and mountain views.

“Depending on their lifestyle interests, buyers are also opting to look for homes that are situated in communities that offer activities, such as skiing or golf.” White added.

Here, T+L’s recommendations for the best small towns to buy a vacation house right now.

Seaside, Florida

This Emerald Coast destination broke the record for 2021’s lowest days on market and highest price per square foot of all Florida’s 30A properties — 20 miles of cozy, waterfront property located along the Panhandle Coastline between Destin and Panama City. The attraction? Scenic beaches and perfectly-preserved coastal architecture in close proximity to world-class shopping and restaurants.

Our favorite property is currently on the market: 20 Seaside Avenue C & D, Santa Rosa Beach. Priced at $6.5 million, this exceptional home spans two full-size condominium units offering more than 3,300-square-feet of ultra-luxe living space. Highlights include an open concept living/dining/culinary space and a huge terrace complete with an outdoor kitchen and panoramic views.

Bend, Oregon

This popular vacation town is just a three-hour drive south of Portland. Adventure seekers love it for its 300 miles of biking trails, climbing routes, and thousands of miles of skiing and snowboarding trails. Less outdoorsy types will appreciate Bend’s 15 craft breweries and five wineries.

Luxury doesn’t come cheap. Listed at $4,495 million, this contemporary home sports an unparalleled setting overlooking the Cascade Mountains and High Desert landscape. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the spacious Great Room open up to a covered back deck, perfect for entertaining al fresco.

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

The quintessential family vacation spot, this lakeside town was ranked as having 2021’s fastest-rising home prices. What’s to love? For starters, top-ranking golf courses and an abundance of water sports.

This 6,296-square-foot penthouse features raised ceilings, transom windows, and tons of natural light. The $6.995 million price also includes a Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Club membership and private slip in the on-site marina.

Wailea, Hawaii

If you want to buy in this uber-hot Maui town, be prepared to act fast — not to mention, offer above the asking price. The average cost of homes sold was $3,691,505, up 55 percent from 2020, according to MauiRealEstate.com.

A 420-square-foot studio goes for $349,000. But on the other end of the spectrum, $26 million will buy you a 1.5-acre oceanfront estate with spectacular 180-degree views. Other standout features include a Pietra Gialla di Vicenza stone exterior and Crema Europa Stone slab flooring.

Grand Lake, Colorado

“The Grand Lake market is incredibly popular right now and is near the entrance to the Rocky Mountain National Park, ideal for those looking for a vacation home that offers adventure and hiking,” said White.

Just how popular? The numbers are staggering. Sales rose 1,400 percent (and no, that’s not a typo) during the first half of 2021, according to Sotheby’s Residential Luxury Report.

Why wait to start enjoying the majestic mountain and lake views? This fully-furnished Western Stick Style sustainably-sourced log cabin is move-in ready. Asking price: $3.29 million.