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Toll Free: 877-624-6889
Intl: (407) 917-8432
Posted on March 15, 2022
The approval of legal recreational marijuana use has taken off over the past decade, as 18 states now allow pot to be consumed for personal use. Starting with the state of Colorado legalizing weed following voter approval of a 2012 ballot initiative, taking a toke has become more mainstream than ever.
This may seem strange to readers of this timeshare blog – talking about legalized weed – but the reality is that more and more vacationers are looking for a vacation destination where they can partake without the threat of a fine, or worse.
It is an interesting dynamic, as the Colorado legalization impacted Colorado timeshare resort operations, especially since state law did not allow for public marijuana consumption. Resorts adjusted policies, such as those affecting housekeeping staff, and shops popped up in towns where weed could be bought.
Because of existing smoking regulations, there are few places other than designated areas or balconies where it could be consumed.
For now, these 18 states, and Washington D.C., allow for legalized recreational marijuana use. Those states are:
According to a 2019 Gallup poll, 66 percent of U.S. adults think pot should be legal, including 62 percent of those aged between 50 and 64 – which happens to align with the primary age demographic of timeshare owners.
This is not meant to advocate for the use of marijuana, but simply to reflect the trend and allow for timeshare owners and vacationers to choose for themselves whether they plan their trips around policies regarding weed.
Florida stands out as the most popular state in the country for timeshare resorts, home to about a quarter of all timeshare properties in America. It is also not on the list above, so what’s the latest regarding Florida’s stance on pot?
According to the Marijuana Policy Project, several pot-related bills were introduced into this year’s Florida legislative session, which ended last week. Those backing full legalization beyond medical use, such as Senate bill 1884, were postponed and withdrawn from consideration. Supporters are now looking at a possible 2024 ballot initiative to take the issue to the voters.
As it stands now, Florida is one of 19 states that allow for jail time for simple possession of weed. However, certain counties and cities, such as Orlando, have passed rules giving police the ability to use citations, rather than arrests, for possession of under 20 grams.
Leaving Florida out of the conversation, we’ve taken a look at the most popular timeshare resorts in our system, as decided by buyer inquiries and offers. Then, we’ve ranked them according to whether these timeshare resorts are in weed-friendly states. Check them out.
Avila Beach is a wonderful community located between Los Angeles and San Jose, with the laid-back coastal feel which is perfect for a California beach getaway. Facing San Luis Obispo Bay and also close to Pismo Beach, you’re just 15 minutes from San Luis Obispo, nestled in the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains. Enjoy the restaurants, cafes, fishing and watersports.
Hit the Jersey Shore and take in the beach, boardwalk, casinos and everything this historic beach town provides. Easily accessible from Philadelphia or New York City, Wyndham Skyline Tower is in a great spot just a couple blocks from the beach and close to the Steel Pier as well as the Hard Rock Casino. Check out the Absecon Lighthouse dating back to the 1850s or the Atlantic City Aquarium.
Located just north of the Escondido township, this southern California resort is actually closer to the beachside communities of Carlsbad and Oceanside than San Diego, but gives you the ability to easily explore any of these places. This location in the hill country lets you visit local wineries as well as play some golf or visit local farmer’s markets.
Imagine San Francisco being on this list? For those looking for a great trip to The City by the Bay, this historic boutique property is just the ticket, just a few blocks from Union Square and close to Fisherman's Wharf, the Theater District and Chinatown. The hotel has been a mainstay in San Francisco for over 70 years and continues to charm visitors.
Perhaps not the most well-known of the Colorado vacation destinations, this township in southwestern Colorado has everything for a wonderful Rocky Mountain getaway. The Wolf Creek Ski Area gets an amazing 430 inches of snow annually with a base elevation of 10,300 feet, perfect to satisfy your cravings for all your favorite snow sports. Also - make sure you dip into the hot springs.
Yes, you knew Vegas was coming up on a list like this. With its “anything goes” reputation, how can it not be? Sitting on the northern end of The Strip, you’re close to the Las Vegas Country Club as well as the Circus Circus Casino. A quick ride down S. Las Vegas Boulevard takes you to the heart of The Strip, but also remember the great outdoor attractions like Red Rock Canyon and Lake Mead.
For a community known for its share of left-of-center activities (vortexes?!?) it’s not too surprising that Sedona makes this list. But the spectacular scenery and terrific outdoor activities definitely make this place a worthwhile destination. Hike Red Rock State Park for that back to nature experience, and the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village is next to the resort for some local flair.
A consistent favorite of Marriott timeshare owners, this Vegas gem is about a half-block off S. Las Vegas Boulevard on the southern side of the heart of The Strip and close to the Miracle Mile shops. You’re less than a half-mile from icons like the Bellagio Fountains and the Eiffel Tower at the Paris Hotel. Planet Hollywood and The Cosmopolitan offer the closest casinos to Grand Chateau.