Top 10 Vacation Rental Spots in the United States for 2011

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, taken by ZereshkWith year-round potential, vacation season has found a home in TripAdvisor's top 10 vacation rental picks in the United States, based on TripAdvisor search data and site editor. Among our favorites are Gatlinburg, Tenn., and Cape Cod, Mass.

Kissimmee, Florida

Out of Florida's amusement park kingdom, Kissimee features the state's trademark tropical weather, as well as easy access to the neighboring Orlando. We love the area's mine of hot air balloon rides and bass fishing.

Big Bear Lake, California

North east of Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake in the Sunshine State has all the trimmings of an outdoor paradise. Decide upon skiing or snowboarding in the winter. In the summer, explore the area's hiking and fishing.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a mountain resort town. Connecting to Cherokee, NC, with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the town offers horseback riding and whitewater rafting, alongside hiking and fishing throughout the area.

Kihei, Hawaii

On Maui, six miles of beach are just the tip of Kihei's appeal. Take advantage of the area's vast opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, surfing and kayaking—as well as, of course, sunbathing.

Destin, Florida

On Florida's panhandle, take in the full range of beach and weather that Destin has to offer. Family fare includes experiencing some of the area's top-rated golf courses first-hand to checking out the alligators at Gator Beach's exhibit, numbering 100.

Palm Springs, California

Located at the base of the Mount San Jacinto Mountains, Palm Springs is a desert city and resort town in Riverside County. We hear the aerial tramway is a great way to see the city. Also, wander the hiking trails and head downtown to the area's shopping and spas.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Right off the Atlantic Coast, the Outer Banks bring North Carolina's fruits to full fruition. Besides miles of beaches, this prime strip of land includes herds of wild horses that populate the beaches in the island's north.

Lahaina, Hawaii

Once Hawaii's capital, Lahaina has cultivated its reputation in beaches and the wide array of activities on hand throughout the Maui town. We like the whale watching tours and hiking through West Maui Forest Reserve, nearby.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

A resort town, Hilton Head include 12 miles of beachfront and 24 prime golf courses on the island in South Carolina. We like the town's shopping and outdoor culture.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

New England at its finest, Cape Cod is ranks among the cream of the crop for summer destinations. Alongside its beaches, historic lighthouses, we recommend exploring the area's bike trails and shopping and dining selections.

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