Imaging $1 Uber rides, then tipping the driver based on the actual distance.

We like the short-term rental idea because we could stay at the property ourselves when we want - summer break, spring/winter breaks, etc.Our budget will be right around $1M or less ideally, and we would like a short distance to the ocean.How likely is it that we could find a property as described above and have it cover or come close to covering the mortgage? 

It is not walking distance to much but a short drive to a lot and generally a touristy area. 

We consistently produce over $70k in net income and I distribute this to support my family.Long-Distance REI: I am looking to invest in long-distance cash-flowing SFH in growing C-Class neighborhoods.

It works great for many people -- not me -- but it might be your best option considering your distance. 

I don't think being a long distance landlord is as easy as some tout but full disclosure I've stayed with 80 miles of my primary residences. 

Bigger Pockets is a great place to learn and connect with fellow investors.If you’re looking to invest long distance, I definitely recommend building your core-4 team.

this is very, very difficult to do at a distance. 

I think they contain solid information and will help lay a good foundation as a beginner (Haha, I'm completely new to real estate as well, btw)I'm also going to be reading the following books, and hopefully I can finish all by the end of this month:1) The ABCs of Property Management2) The Advanced Guide to Real Estate Investing3) Long-Distance Real Estate Investing How to Buy, Rehab, and Manage Out-of-State Rental Properties (this might be the most important one to me personally)4) The Book on Investing in Real Estate with No (and Low) Money DownIn addition to reading, I'm consuming crazy amounts of youtube videos, and I'recommend you do this as well.

It will likely be a “commuter” community and will still attract plenty of great tenants.