The best flooring options for coastal vacation rentals are hardwood, laminate, vinyl, or tile. Not only are these options stylish, but they are designed to stand up to coastal elements, like sand, salt, and moisture. Avoid carpet. Beach homes tend to be exposed to warm salty sea air, making carpets musty. Plus, carpet fibers can trap sand, making it difficult to thoroughly vacuum. Stick to durable materials that are a cinch to clean.