They are different approaches and different destinations.

Market Selection - Prioritize proximity to national parks, tourism destinations, mountain markets and markets that are less seasonal.

I went true short term rental because of the cashflow, equity paydown and appreciation I was expecting over time being in a more expensive area that is a vacation destination, as @Andrew Street mentioned.

If not, I can refer you to someone who can.David J Dachtera"Success is not a destination.

The vacation rental market has been boosted during the pandemic because people opt not to travel traditionally (cruises, Mexico, Hawaii, etc) so the west coast discovered Southen Utah.

With other travel shut down, (Disney, cruises, Mexico, etc...) the entire west coast came to St.George this summer & it's on EVERYONE'S radar now! 

We are finding the market in Destin very high and are having a hard time finding anything that would mostly pay for itself w/rental income.

Proximity to Sand Hollow, Zion, and other destinations makes this a well-traveled and popular area.

I would start cruising MLS sooner than later to get a feel for RE value in the areas your interested in so you know when a deal comes your way.

Port A much more touristy and established as a tourist destination in Texas for the beach atmosphere.