📝 usncan Note: Which Vacation Is Right for You?
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A beach or lake vacation comes down to personal preference.
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The “Great Debate” rages on. Which is better, a beach or a lake vacation? It’s a classic vacation dilemma. Could it simply come down to a matter of personal preference? Regardless, one thing is clear. Both beach enthusiasts and lake lovers are fiercely loyal to their preferred body of water.
Differences Between a Beach Trip and a Lake Trip
- Beaches offer dynamic energy, ocean activities and a vast horizon. Lakes provide a tranquil, nature-oriented escape with calmer waters for water sports, diverse inland scenery and fewer crowds.
- Beaches offer an active social atmosphere with crowds, while lakes offer a more secluded and peaceful environment for relaxation and connecting with nature.
- Beaches are ideal for surfing, kite boarding and parasailing, while lake activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing and water skiing.
- Beaches feature an energizing sea breeze and the rhythm of ocean waves create a distinct and unique atmosphere. Lakes generally have lower humidity than coastal beaches, creating a more comfortable environment for activities.
Lake vacations offer such activities as kayaking and waterskiing.
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Expert Travel Tips for Beach and Lake Getaways
Sara Wilcox, Fora Travel advisor, says, “If you’re at the beach and up for something really active, you can surf since ocean waves are required. At a lake, you’ll need a boat for options like water skiing. Then, there’s fishing. Lakes are home to freshwater fish like trout and bass while oceans offer deep sea fishing to catch things like tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi. Whale and dolphin watching are beach vacation exclusive.”
When her beach clients want to stick within the US, she typically suggests Florida (especially the Gulf Coast). San Diego and Hawaii, if they’re willing to travel a bit further. “I also love Cabo San Lucas, but always advise my clients that there are very few swimmable beaches in that region, so it depends on what you’re looking to do while you’re away,” she says. “If you’re considering Europe, remember that many beaches there are rocky, pebbly or cliff-side. So if you’re envisioning your feet in the sand, do your research first.”
Lake Tahoe offers discerning travelers stunning scenery.
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For a lake getaway, Lake Tahoe really has it all, including the sheer beauty of its surrounding mountains. Discerning travelers can rent a $15,000 per-night lake house on Lake Tahoe, or you can opt for a much simpler rental. Lake Michigan is a popular summer destination for families. Wilcox adds, “If you’re up for more of a cultural excursion, I suggest Lake Atitlán in Guatemala, a beautiful volcanic lake dotted with local villages.”
Family Vacations: Beach Resorts vs. Lake Rentals
Both beaches and lakes are great for families, couples or solo travelers. If you want to be completely pampered and not lift a finger, you are more likely to find a 5-star luxury property at the beach (think: Rosewood Las Ventanas in Cabo, Cheval Blanc St-Barth, Zannier Bai San Ho in Vietnam). If you have a large family with small children and want to be able to make your own lunches and do laundry, you may have more house rental options near a lake.
Alice Lancini, Director of Sales & Marketing at Grand Hotel Fasano, says, “At the beaches, people typically enjoy long stretches of sand, surfing or ocean sailing. Lakes offer a different rhythm — more serene but just as active. Here at Lake Garda, guests of Grand Hotel Fasano can indulge in water skiing, windsurfing or paddleboarding on calm waters, while also hiking or biking through the mountains that surround the lake. The combination of water sports and land adventures makes a lake setting uniquely versatile.”
Katie Johnson, Hyatt Vice President & Global Brand Leader, Luxury and Collection Brands, adds, “At The Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa in Oceanside, California, guests can enjoy the classic coastal fun with surf lessons, whale watching or even beach concierge service to enjoy the majestic views of Pacific Ocean without worrying about bringing umbrellas, towels and more. Lake stays offer something a bit more nostalgic – almost like summer camp. At Cheyenne Mountain Resort in Colorado Springs or Everline Resort & Spa, Lake Tahoe guests can enjoy calmer waters with activities like paddleboarding or enjoy the mountains through hiking and other adventures that comes with the versatile terrain.”
Lake vacations are normally more friendly on your wallet.
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Cost Comparison: Which Vacation Is More Affordable?
A lake vacation is generally more budget-friendly than a beach vacation because lake destinations often have more affordable accommodations, activities and dining options. While beach vacations can offer unique ocean experiences and vibrant social scenes, lakeside locations often provide a more cost-effective way to enjoy family-friendly fun and relaxation within a set budget.
A beach house can offer direct access to the ocean.
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Real Estate: Buying a Beach House vs. a Lake House
For those looking to own their own little piece of paradise, Bill Gassett, owner and founder of Maximum Real Estate Exposure, explains the pros of buying either a beach or lake house.
Pros for buying a lake house
- Serene environment: Lake houses typically offer a tranquil setting, making them ideal for those seeking peace away from city noise.
- Freshwater activities: Residents can enjoy freshwater activities like fishing, kayaking and swimming without the harshness of salt water.
- Year-round appeal: Unlike some beach locations, lake houses can be attractive year-round, offering scenic autumn leaves and winter sports opportunities.
- Community feel: Many lake communities are tightly-knit, offering a sense of belonging and security that is appealing to many homeowners.
- Wildlife and nature: Surrounded by nature, lake houses provide a habitat for wildlife and opportunities for bird watching and hiking.
Pros for buying a beach house
- Ocean access: Direct access to the sea is ideal for those who enjoy beach activities, boating and sea fishing.
- Vacation rental potential: Beach houses typically have high rental demand. They offer owners a potential income source.
- Health benefits: The beach environment promotes physical activity and has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental health. I know this from owning a beach house!
- Vibrant social scene: Beach areas often have a lively social scene with numerous restaurants, shops and entertainment options.
- Spectacular views: Owners of beach houses enjoy spectacular ocean views. This enhances their property’s aesthetic value.
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