Florida’s vacation rental market remains one of the hottest in the U.S., and few Orlando short-term rental communities are more in demand than Solara Resort and Paradise Palms.
Whether you're searching for the best vacation home near Disney for your family or considering a long-term vacation home investment in Orlando, both communities offer strong potential but very different vibes.
Let’s break down what makes each one unique so you can choose the right fit for your lifestyle, rental strategy, or second home in Kissimmee.
Location & Accessibility
In Orlando short-term rental communities, location drives both lifestyle and returns. Here’s how Solara and Paradise Palms stack up:
Solara Resort
Located off Westside Blvd, near US-192
Under 15 minutes to Disney World’s main gate
Close to Margaritaville’s Sunset Walk and Island H2O Water Park
About 30 minutes to Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Surrounded by shopping, restaurants, and entertainment
Paradise Palms
Situated off W Irlo Bronson Hwy (US-192) in Kissimmee
Minutes to Disney, Old Town, and Fun Spot America
Gated entrance with quick access to I-4
Central to Kissimmee attractions and retail hubs
Established roads and guest-friendly navigation
Community Vibe & Lifestyle: Which One Feels Like Home?
The energy of a vacation home community can make or break your rental experience—and your ROI. Whether you're focused on strong guest turnover or looking for a more laid-back second home in Kissimmee, here’s how each resort feels from the inside.
Solara Resort: Built for Buzz
Solara is vibrant, high-energy, and purpose-built for short-term rentals. It’s a newer community designed with vacationers in mind, think modern amenities, Instagram-worthy aesthetics, and a clubhouse that rivals some hotels.
With high guest turnover, Solara is ideal for investors who want strong nightly rates and consistent bookings. It’s also popular with younger families and groups looking for full-home experiences over hotels.
Paradise Palms: Your Tropical Escape
Paradise Palms delivers a quieter, more relaxed environment. With lush landscaping and a tropical resort feel, it’s favored by snowbirds, repeat guests, and vacationers who enjoy longer stays.
The neighborhood feels more established and residential, offering a softer, more peaceful rhythm that’s great for families and retirees. For those prioritizing comfort and calm over constant turnover, this is a win.
Who Should Buy Where?
Choose Solara Resort if:
You’re looking for newer construction with modern features and stylish finishes
Your goal is to maximize nightly rental rates with larger homes and resort-style appeal
You want to offer guests bold amenities like the FlowRider surf simulator, updated clubhouses, and kid-friendly water zones
You’re targeting families who prioritize Instagrammable, amenity-rich vacation homes
Choose Paradise Palms if:
You value established occupancy, loyal repeat guests, and consistent rental income
You prefer a quieter, more relaxed resort atmosphere with lush landscaping and a community feel
You’re looking for a ready-to-rent property that already has furnishings, reviews, and operational history
You want a lower entry price point with fewer upfront renovation needs
Rental Income Potential: Solara vs. Paradise Palms
Both Solara Resort and Paradise Palms are STR-approved (short-term rental zoned), which means you can legally operate nightly vacation rentals, critical for income-focused investors. But beyond zoning, the two communities offer different strengths when it comes to maximizing revenue.
Solara Resort: High Rates, High Demand
Newer Construction: Solara’s modern builds, sleek interiors, and upgraded amenities allow owners to command higher nightly rates, often $275–$500+, depending on size and season.
STR-Optimized Homes: Most properties are built with renters in mind, with open layouts, multiple en-suite bedrooms, themed kid rooms, and screened pools.
Higher Booking Premiums: The FlowRider®, splash zone, and vibrant clubhouse give hosts a marketing edge on Airbnb and Vrbo listings.
Nightly Rates:
Peak Season (Holidays, Summer): $350–$500+
Low Season: $200–$300
Occupancy Rate (estimated): ~70–80% annual average for 5–9 bedroom homes
Strengths: Turnkey appeal, premium pricing, strong family draw
Consideration: Being newer, Solara has fewer long-time repeat guests, which means more reliance on digital marketing and competitive pricing.
Paradise Palms: Steady Bookings, Lower Turnover
Well-Established in the Market: Paradise Palms has been attracting renters for over a decade. Many homes are well-reviewed with a history of loyal, repeat guests who return annually.
Slightly Lower Nightly Rates due to older construction (pre-2015), but consistent demand due to location, amenities, and name recognition.
Nightly Rates:
Peak Season: $250–$400
Low Season: $150–$250
Occupancy Rate (estimated): ~65–75% annually
Strengths: Repeat bookings, trusted reputation on OTA platforms, and reliable maintenance history
Consideration: You may need to invest in updates or modern furnishings to compete with newer resorts like Solara, especially to maximize high-season earnings.
Amenities Face-Off: Solara Resort vs. Paradise Palms
Both Solara Resort and Paradise Palms are built for guest enjoyment, but the way they deliver fun, relaxation, and convenience varies. Whether you're buying a second home in Kissimmee or exploring a vacation home investment in Orlando, amenities can be a major booking driver.
Here’s how the two communities stack up side-by-side:
Feature | Solara Resort | Paradise Palms |
Clubhouse | Yes – Grand-scale clubhouse with open-air design and expansive lounge areas | Yes – Full-service clubhouse with tropical decor and concierge services |
Resort Pool | Heated, zero-entry pool with a FlowRider® surf simulator and splash zone | Lagoon-style pool with grotto-style waterfall, splash pad, and spa |
Dining Options | Full-service restaurant, café, and bar near the clubhouse | Poolside tiki bar, grill, and Starbucks café inside clubhouse |
Sports Facilities | Full soccer field, half-court basketball, sand volleyball | Tennis courts, basketball, and pickleball courts |
Kids Zone | Splash pad, shaded playground, and teen game room | Large arcade room, splash zone, and an onsite cinema theater |
Fitness Center | Modern gym with cardio, weights, and open workout space | Fully equipped fitness center with machines and free weights |
Unique Extras | FlowRider® surf simulator, sundry shop, shaded cabanas | Cinema room, gift shop, cabanas, and event lounge |
What Stands Out?
Homes & Floorplans
Solara Resort
Offers 3 to 9-bedroom homes, ideal for hosting large families or maximizing short-term rental income
Features both townhomes and single-family pool homes, giving buyers flexible options based on their goals
Most properties were built after 2018 by Mattamy Homes and other respected builders
Modern floor plans include open-concept kitchens, loft spaces, and indoor-outdoor layouts designed for Florida living
Nearly all homes come with private screened-in pools, stylish furnishings, and contemporary interiors with smart home features
A popular pick for investors who want newer construction, less maintenance, and higher visual appeal for online bookings
Paradise Palms
Primarily features 4 to 6-bedroom townhomes and single-family homes, many with private pools
Built around 2010–2015, the community is well-maintained with tropical curb appeal and mature landscaping
Homes often come fully furnished with themed rooms and turnkey setups—perfect for immediate rentals or move-in readiness
Traditional floor plans focus on comfort and practicality, often with dual master suites, game rooms, or home theaters
A great option for buyers who want a proven rental performer in a quiet, resort-style environment with consistent guest flow
Still Can’t Decide?
Both Solara Resort and Paradise Palms offer incredible value whether you're buying your first vacation home, adding to your rental portfolio, or looking for a sunny second home near Disney.
But the right choice? It depends on you, your goals, your guests, your lifestyle.
Find your vacation home or maybe even your forever home with someone who knows this market inside and out.
I’m Mike Chen, a trusted Realtor across Central Florida and an active property manager with over 100 Airbnb homes under my wing. I don’t just sell homes, I help clients make smart, profitable decisions.
Tell me your goals, and I’ll guide you every step of the way from touring homes to running the numbers.
Reach out today—your perfect Orlando vacation home is waiting.
