A vacation can be many things - it can be as simple as booking time off work to do nothing more than relaxing and taking it easy wherever you live. Or it can involve an elaborate journey to a far away locale where the getting there is just as much a part of the vacation as the intended activity at the final destination point. More often than not, the word vacation instantly calls forth visions of white sand beaches, crystal blue waters and endless amounts of sunshine. Whichever your ideal version is, a vacation is something that is not only desired, but required by all of us at some point or another.

For those that do opt for the resort or tropical vacation option, there is the natural inclination to automatically look at luxury hotels, or all inclusive resorts since these are associated with the notion of getting away and relaxing - what better way to relax than knowing that your every whim will be catered to for the duration of your holiday? These types of vacations can be great stress reducers, being waited on hand and foot is a nice role reversal for anyone who leads a busy life and career in their day to day life. But suppose you want a bit more of a middle ground between your day to day lifestyle and the all inclusive luxury vacation idea?

When you're planning your next getaway, consider a beach rental property. Beach rental properties afford you the experience of living in your own "home" away from home. Renting a home or apartment or condo in an Oceanside community for your vacation will provide you with an entirely new experience - if you've ever wondered what it would be like to live in an oceanfront location, a beach rental property can help you realize this idea in a most luxurious manner. Live like a local in your new home away from home.

Many businesses that offer this type of vacation rental will have many different options for you to choose from. You can go for an ultra contemporary glass and steel type of condo to a palatial estate with sweeping views and multiple rooms to a simple beach apartment. The choice is yours according to what you prefer. Once you've decided on what type of rental property is best for you, you'll need to consider some other things like - proximity to whatever local attractions have piqued your interest, whether or not you'll need certain amenities (such as laundry, full kitchen facilities, etc), and of course, location.

When you're in the planning stages, you'll also have to remember that the dates you want to plan your vacation around may complicate your ability to get that perfect property and location. Plan to do some research and comparisons in order to align all your ideals into the vacation rental and time frame you desire.

Also, while in the planning and booking stages, be sure to have a good knowledge of the surrounding areas when it comes to your desired location - you might not want to rent a property that is located in a high traffic (foot traffic or otherwise) area if peace and quiet is your goal. Also check with the rental management company if there is other rental properties nearby that are being used for family reunions, corporate getaways or weddings as these types of functions will likely mean some disruption to your holiday in the form of noise or late night activity.

Rental property vacations are a great way to relax but still have autonomy. You can settle into your new beach front property and live like a local. You'll experience a wonderful vacation experience that offers all of the resort style amenities you want, but with the modicum of privacy that you enjoy in your everyday life. Your vacation awaits!