Apalachicola is a pretty historic town that lies at the mouth of the Apalachicola River. Known for its colorful Victorian homes and Indian burial mounds, Apalachicola has lots to offer in the way of history, and provides a charming historic downtown district for strolling and checking out the sights. Its stately 150-year old Trinity Church and antebellum cotton warehouses remind visitors of a time when Apalachicola was a booming cotton port, and played a key role in the Civil War. This town is also famous for its seafood, so if you appreciate fresh shrimp, blue crab and oysters, this is the place for you. Most restaurants serve these local specialties in a number of ways, but locals say the only way to really enjoy an Apalachicola oyster is raw with a pitcher of cold beer.

 
Right off the shoreline, in Apalachicola Bay, is the St. Vincent Wildlife Refuge, a 12,000-acre barrier island that is accessible only by boat. The island is triangular (four miles wide and nine long) and offers great opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, hunting and fishing. Originally, the island was used as a hunting preserve for birds, but now it houses several endangered and protected species like the bald eagle, the loggerhead sea turtle and the indigo snake. The plant life here is also notable: plenty of live oaks, cabbage palms and slash pines will make you feel like you are either in the Deep South, the Caribbean, or both. The Refuge is a great place for families and nature-lovers alike to spend a day roaming around and exploring.

St. George Island is a 28-mile long expanse of spectacular beaches and marshes. Its residents are very committed to keeping the island as pristine and unspoiled as possible so as to preserve its natural beauty. There are no high-rises, or chain stores and restaurants on the island, and low density zoning and strict building codes keep the beaches looking as they probably did before Florida was discovered by Hernando de Soto in the 16th century. On the east end of the island is the St. George Island State Park, which offers visitors eight miles of coastline, the longest beachfront of any park in Florida. There are nature trails for hiking and biking, picnic areas complete with private bathhouses and boardwalks, and observation decks for seeing all there is to see, both of the ocean and the lush foliage.

image by Ebyabe

Cape San Blas, 25 miles from Apalachicola, has over 20 miles of dazzling white beaches on both the Gulf of Mexico and St. Joe Bay. These beaches are known for their clear, clean water and seclusion; they are very rarely crowded, or even half filled. There are wooden boardwalks over the huge dunes, which can be 30 to 40 feet high in spots. The tides here are low, which makes for great swimming and gentle surf. St. Joe Peninsula State Park in Cape San Blas offers 10 miles of beach and bathtub-warm water (the average temperature is 84 degrees), and has been named in the top 10 beaches by Dr. Beach and many publications. The park is 2516-acres total, and is bordered by water on three sides: the Gulf and St. Joe Bay. Both of these bodies of water are at their gentlest here, so the snorkeling is great. Thousands of Wide, sandy beaches are perfect for parasailing underwater creatures can be glimpsed floating serenely under the surface of these calm turquoise waters. For the more active, a six-mile sand-hiking trail that runs along the beach is a good way to work up a sweat while gazing out to sea. Birdwatchers will be pleasantly surprised at the great number of coastal birds who make their homes here and the wildflowers that dot the beach add a touch of color. The Cape San Blas Lighthouse stands sentry at the tip of the park, and was built in 1838.

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Mexico Beach is the kind of place that upholds the fine tradition of the small beach community. Here, life is laid-back and as sweet as the cooling beach breezes, without the distractions of malls, amusement parks or crowds of wild spring-breakers. The beautiful old homes and buildings of Mexico Beach recall the feel of a refined, Spanish-influenced Old Florida, and the fishing is second to none. City Canal Park and City Pier are good spots to cast off into the blue, blue, Gulf, but if deep-sea fishing is more your style, there are several charter companies that would be happy to take you out to deeper channel waters. Mexico Beach is divided into an east and west side, both of which have long stretches of beaches. The west side has experienced some damage in recent years due to hurricanes and erosion, but the sand is still soft and white, and the water still dreamy azure. The east side is less developed by the water, so the spectacular views of the rolling waves and intense sunsets can still be seen from pretty much anywhere. Here, the tides are gentle and there is virtually no undertow, making this beach kid-friendly and safe.

Bahia Honda State Park

In 1992, Conde Nast Traveler rated this beach the “Best Beach in the Continental U.S.”  Located in the Bahia Honda Key, Bahia Honda State Park is considered one of the most relaxing Florida beaches.  635 acres of trails, complete with part of Henry Flagler’s railroad, set the backdrop for this peaceful and beautiful beach.  The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sunset, and the concession buildings are open from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.  The park entrance fee is $2.50 for one person, $5.00 for two people, and $0.50 for each additional person.  Park activities include kayaking, bicycling, boat and snorkeling tours, and fishing.  Additionally, boat slip rentals are available.  The park is complete with bath houses.  Sorry, no pets allowed.

Beer Can Island Beach

Contrary to its interesting name, Beer Can Island Beach is a gorgeous white sand beach.  Free of city billboards, roadway signs, malls, and high rises, this beach is popular for sun bathers, fisherman, and the occasional party animal.  Additionally, the beach is a great spot to watch passing boats. Located on the northern end of Longboat Key, visitors can access the area by boat at Longboat Pass.

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Caladesi Island State Park

Located in Clearwater Beach, Caladesi Island provides a great escape from the hectic, urban development of Tampa Bay.  Set in a relatively private area, you can see dolphins playing offshore and birds flying overhead.  For nature lovers, the park’s 3-mile trail leads you on a sightseeing adventure – raccoons, armadillos, rabbits, rattlesnakes, and black racers are a few of the many critters frequently seen along the way.  The marina has 108 slips, and the island has picnic grounds, bathhouses, concessions, fishing, shelling, scuba diving, and many more island activities.

Recommended Activities
Adventure Islan-Water Park  (adventureisland.com):  Water park featuring flumes, pools, kiddie park, shops,and food concessions.  10001 Malcolm McKinley Drive, Tampa.  Phone 813.987.5660.

By Request Charters (byrequestcharters.com):  Sport fishing charters, private nature cruises, fishing & boating courses.  445 Hamden Drive, Clearwater Beach.  Phone 727.587.0714.

Early Bird Dinner Theatre:  For $14.94 (plus tax), you can enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet and show in Bill Irle’s Banquet Hall.  Reservations required.  1311 N. Fort Harrison Ave, Clearwater.  Phone 727.446.5898.

Image from Mikereichold

Canaveral National Seashore

Canveral National Seashore is a 24-mile strip of protected coastline set on a barrier island among cabbage palms, sea grapes, palmettos, dines, hammocks, salt marshes, and lagoons.  Activities for children include a variety of beach activities and the Junior Ranger Program for children ages 6-12.  Three different programs target children that visit the park frequently, for one day, or even those visiting the park online.  Next door, at the 140,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, you can visit hundreds of birds, reptiles, and mammals.

Captiva & Sanibel Islands

Located four miles off the coast of Southwestern Florida, Captiva and Sanibel Islands are truly a vacationer’s paradise.  The area boasts 12,000 miles of rich, tropical vegetation and 22 miles of white, sugary sand.  The islands are most known for some of the best shelling in the world, and the best fishing in Southwest Florida.  Bird lovers flock to the wildlife sanctuary, occupying over one-third of the islands.  Additional activities include golf, hiking, biking, and boating.

Cayo Costa State Park

Accessible only by boat, Cayo Costa lies on an island in a chain of barrier islands that shelter Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island from the Gulf’s tempestuous weather.  The beach is comprised of a 2,132-acre strip of sand, mangrove swamps, pine forests, oak palm hammocks, and grasslands.  All of these elements make Cayo Costa a true, subtropical getaway.  Recreational activities include picnicking, beach activities, rental cabins, boating, and fishing.  Shelling is particularly popular in the winter months, but there is no lifeguard on duty.  The beach is only accessible by boat from Gasparilla, Pine, and the Captiva Islands.

Coquina Beach

Coquina Beach is located within the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, a controlled area located eight miles south of the U.S. 158 on Highway 12.  One of the largest beaches in the Anna Maria Island region, this sunny escape provides visitors with plenty of sand and enough space to kick back and relax.  With amenities including great parking, lifeguards, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and various concessions, this beach will surely please all interests.  Other wonderful attributes are a nearby boat launch, located across the street.

Destin

Destin has certainly earned its motto, “Welcome to Paradise.”  White sandy beaches, emerald green waters, and beautiful sunsets set the scene for a superior beach vacation.   Beach activities include fishing, snorkeling, and sunbathing.   Recreationally, you’ll never get bored with activities such as parasailing, waverunning, dolphin excursions, and plenty of boat charters.  Other activities include tennis, golf, and beach volleyball.  Moreover, the area hosts a wide and exciting variety of restaurants, serving 20+ types of local, fresh fish.

Gulf Islands National Seashore

Located in Pensacola, this beach is true to the gulf shore’s reputation for white sand beaches that stretch on forever.  From Cat Island, Mississippi, to the eastern tip of Santa Rosa Island, Florida, the Seashore stretches on for 150 miles.  Although 80% of the Seashore is submerged, the barrier islands with their crystal blue waters and bright beaches are well worth the visit.  The Gulf Islands National Seashore is home to terns, snowy plover, black skimmers, and countless other birds that nest on the dunes.  

Recommended Activities
Beach Marina, Inc. & Fishing Fleet (fishpensacola.com):  655 Pensacola Beach Blvd., Pensacola Beach.  Phone 850.932.0304 or toll free 877.650.3474.

Flounder’s Chowder & Ale House: Brunch, dinner, and lunch.  Serving American fare, ranging from  seafood to steak, including  beer and cocktails.  800 Quietwater Beach Rd., Pensacola Beach.  Phone 850.932.2003.

Lanier Sailing Academy:  33-B Gulf Breeze Parkwak, Gulf Breeze.  Phone 850.932.1933 or toll free 800.684.9463.

Marcus Pointe Golf Club (mygolf.com/golf/courses/3040):  2500 Oak Pointe Dr., Pensacola.  Phone 850.484.9770 or toll free 800.3MARCUS.

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Haulover Beach

Haulover Beach is located in Miami, between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Ocean.  The beach  is most commonly known for its gay and nudist atmosphere, especially towards the north end of the beach.  Although clothing is optional, anywhere from 500,000 to 1,000,000 visitors a year enjoy a flawless tan and nude sports.

Recommended Activities
Charter Yacht RA (racharters.com):  40-foot sailboat available for group or individual charters, ranging from daytrips to long-term cruising.  Located at 3400 Pan American Drive, Coconut Grove.  Boat is located at Dinner Key Marina, Pier 7, Slip 8, Miami.  Phone 305.854.7341.

Dance Now! Ensemble:  Contemporary dance theatre group based in Miami Beach.  Presentations, performances, and daily classes offered in modern ballet, jazz, and yoga.  7000 Bonita Dr., Suite 508, Miami Beach.  Phone 305.695.9588.

Miami Beach Surfside Water Sports, Inc. (miamibeachwatersports.com):  8701 Collins Ave., Miami Beach.  Phone 305.867.9006.

John U. Lloyd Beach State Park

Absent high-rise condominiums, hotels, and tourist shops make a wonderful escape for those interested in a private and untouched beach.  Nestled in 251 acres of barrier island and Australian pine, Dania Beach contrasts sharply with the urban life of nearby Fort Lauderdale.  Park activities include boating, canoeing, fishing, nature trails, picnicking, snorkeling, swimming, scuba diving, and wildlife viewing.  There is even a boat ramp for guests who bring their own boats.   Shore birds are abundant in the morning, so don’t forget your binoculars.

Lovers Key State Park

Although you cannot park directly at this beach, you can walk or enjoy a tram ride through the State Park’s bird-filled, mangrove forest.  Upon arrival, visitors enjoy a secluded, clean beach that sharply contrasts the nearby bustle of Fort Myers Beach.  Acres of nature trails and unspoiled beaches make Lovers Key an excellent spot to observe countless species of waterfowl, endangered manatee, and other aquatic animals.  The white beaches are sprinkled with whelks and clam shells, all framed by a bank of sea grapes and coco plums.

Lummus Park Beach

Known more commonly as South Beach, or “Glitter Beach,” Lummus Park Beach is a world renowned “hot spot,” where you’ll see plenty of skin.  People watching, dancing, sun bathing, and even photo shoots are a few of many daily activities in South Beach.  Gay residents and travelers frequent areas from 12th St. Ocean Dr. & 5th St. to Collins Ave. & 21st St. This portion of the beach known for those who want to catch some rays and check out gym-sculpted bodies, and is widely known as the place to really get down and party.

Marco Island

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Marco Island is a tropical destination off the coast of Southwest Florida.  The area boasts is laid-back, easy-going lifestyle.  With dolphins playing offshore, tropical birds overhead, plenty of sunshine, and a light breeze, what more could you ask for?  The area hosts restaurants with fresh seafood and local creations.  Fishing, wildlife excursions, swimming, and boat rentals are a few of the many activities offered to visitors.

Matheson Hammock Park Beach

Located in South Miami, Matheson Hammock Park Beach is set in a tropical hardwood forest is recognized as one of the best family beaches.  Biscayne Bay’s warm waters tidally flow into the beach’s man-made lagoon and atoll pool.  The Bay’s tranquil breezes flow over the waterfront, perfect for long days at the beach.  The Park is complete with a full-service marina, snack bar, and restaurant – all built into an impressive, coral rock building.    

Recommended Activities
A.D. “Doug” Barnes Park (metro-dade.com/parks):  3701 SW 72nd Ave., South Miami.  Phone 305.666.5883.

IMAX Theatre at Sunset Place (imax.com/miami):  5701 Sunset Dr., Suite 134, South Miami.  Phone 305.663.4629.

Miami Civic Music Association (geocities.com/miamicivicmusic/index.html):  Popular concert series.  5360 S.W. 87th Ave., Miami.  Phone 305.271.8449.

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Naples Beach

Located in front of Naples’ renowned “Millionaires’ Row,” this extensive beach is truly exquisite.  The beach provides a great view of extraordinary mansions, and is a great spot to witness a gorgeous sunset.

Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach is defined by 27 miles of pristine, white beach, and its various attractions.  Southern Living, the Travel Channel, and America’s Best Beaches have all recognized this beach among America’s most appealing beaches.  What more do you need to know?  Local amusement parks draw in daring visitors, and the shop-aholics love the area’s galleries, shops, and boutiques.  Additional activities include deep sea fishing, boating, diving, and, of course, kickin’ back in the sand.

Pensacola Beach

Activities range from the Naval Aviation Museum, to historic Fort Pickens, to the many festivals.  Visitors enjoy shopping in the area’s exquisite boutiques, trying out some new and exciting eateries, and spending a day at the beach.  Beach life consists of swimming, sunbathing, volleyball, snorkeling, and beachcombing.  A great outdoor alternative to the beach is the Naval Live Oaks Center, located in the Gulf Islands National Seashore.  You’ll be able to walk through 1,378 acres of untouched woodland among bird species such as mockingbirds, blue jays, cardinals, and flickers, to name a few.  

Recommended Activities
Beach Marina, Inc. & Fishing Fleet (fishpensacola.com):  655 Pensacola Beach Blvd., Pensacola Beach.  Phone 850.932.0304 or toll free 877.650.3474.

The National Museum of Naval Aviation (naval-air.org/): Open 9am-5pm daily, free admission.   1750 Radford Blvd., Pensacola.  Phone 850.452.2311.

The Pensacola Opera (pensacolaopera.com/):  Opera performances as well as educational programs for adults and children.  118 South Palafox St., Downtown Pensacola.  Phone 850.433.6737.

Saint Andrews State Park

St. Andrews State Park resembles what its neighbor, Panama City Beach, was like before the high-rise condominiums, hotels, and clubs took over the area’s peaceful landscape.  In 1995, Travel Magazine named St Andrews “The World’s Best Beach,” and the locality has always been considered among Florida’s best outdoor recreation spots.  St. Andrews is made up of more than 1,000 acres of meticulously maintained white sand, dunes, and emerald waters. Foxes, deer, and coyotes live nearby.  Moreover, the gulf breezes usually carry a pleasant hint of the park’s wild rosemary.

Image from Ebyabe

Saint George Island

Saint George Island is defined by 29 miles of pristine beach fronted by Apalachicola Bay’s emerald waters, and a well-preserved landscape.  The area’s strict building regulations have kept area commercialization to a minimum.  The island is home to a wide variety of bird species that live among dunes and in the forests.  There is also an extensive array of marine life, from oysters to colorful, tropical fish.

Image from Ebyabe

Santa Rosa Beach

Rolling dunes, soft sand, a cypress swamp, and a coastal lake define the area known as Santa Rosa Beach.  The area is considered historic, luxurious, and breathtakingly beautiful.  Santa Rosa attractions, such as Point Washington State Forest and the Eastern Lake Bike/Hike Trail, offer activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife observing.  Nearby attractions include antique malls, galleries, mansion tours, and boat charters.  The area boasts some of the country’s most acclaimed restaurants, including seven of Florida Trend’s “Top 200 Restaurants.”  

Recommended Activities
Eastern Lake Bike/Hike Trail:  A ten-mile loop in the Point Washington State Forest, winding through a variety of natural vegetation and wildlife habitats. Phone 850.231.5800

Flyliner Charters  (flyliner.com):  Specializing in light tackle inshore gulf, backcountry bayfly, and spin fishing from Panama City to Pensacola.  Full, ½ day, and night fishing available.  Reservations suggested.  Phone 850.609.0528.  Email:  Flyliner1@aol.com

Isabel Smith Art & Design Studio: Phone 850.244.7353.

Image from Ebyabe

Stump Pass Beach

Located on beautiful Manasota Key, Stump Pass Beach offers a taste of old Florida; the uncrowned and un-assuming beach allows visitors to walk, sunbathe, and enjoy the ocean.  The beach does not have lifeguards and has limited, free parking, so get there early.  There are several nearby restaurants and souvenir shops, along with other traditional, Southwest Florida localities.  

Recommended Activities
Bay Breeze Boat Rentals (baybreezeboat.com):  1450 Beach Road, Englewood.  Phone 941.475.0733.

Long Marsh Golf Club (longmarsh.com):  20 White Marsh Road, Rotonda West.  Phone 941.697.4190.  Email:  longmarshgolf@ewol.com

Tringali Recreation Complex:  3460 McCall Road South, Englewood.  Phone 941.473.1018.

Image from Ebyabe

Virginia Key

Many travel to locations within Key Biscayne, but few visit Virginia Key.  Almost anyone escaping to Virginia Key takes advantage of its private, charming, and tranquil atmosphere.  

Recommended Activities
Biscayne Nature Center (biscaynenaturecenter.org):  Center offers hands-on marine exploration, coastal hammock hikes, fossil-rock reef walks, bike trips, local history lectures, and beach walks.  Reservations required.  6767 Crandon Blvd., Key Biscayne.  Phone 305.361.6767.

Miami Seaquarium (miamiseaquarium.com):  38 acres filled with entertainment, shows, and exhibits. Marine wildlife include killer whales, sea lions, dolphins, crocodiles, fish, rays, and many more marine species.  Open daily from 9:30 am – 6 pm.  Adults $23.95, children ages 3-9, $18.95, not including taxes.  4400 Rickenbacker Cswy., Miami.  Phone 305.361.5705.

Image from Ebyabe

Dolphin Show – Although hands-on encounters cost a pretty penny, the general public is welcome to watch from the lawn overlooking the lagoon at Dolphin Quest. As an added bonus, a more extensive full free dolphin show is performed several times a month in the evening at this picturesque Waikaloa locale.

Petroglyph Tour – At 10:30a.m., every Sunday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the King’s Shops center stage to take an hour long tour of nearby petroglyphs. Petroglyphs, or kii pohaku, are Native Hawaiian, centuries-old lava rock carvings etched into stone. These are thought to represent important happenings in the lives of the people. Canoes, turtles, human forms, canoes, turtles and others can be discovered.

Farmer’s Markets – These open air markets are not only a great place to pick up fresh produce, and occasionally great deals on handicrafts as souvenirs by buying direct from the artisans, they offer a fun look at all the unique items grown on the island. Wild fruit, straight from the picking, and local delicacies can often be tasted and island music typically fills the air, making this a worthy – and free – morning or afternoon of entertainment. Kekela Market — Tuesday and Friday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.  Hawi Market — Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Tuesdays 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Maku’u Market — Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Volcano Market Sunday from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.   

Kona Historical Society Events – Learn about the history behind many of the island’s cultural traditions straight from the experts at these monthly lectures and presentations. From the famous billfishing tournaments to outrigger canoe exploration to the century-old art of lahuala weaving – greater insight will add a depth of understanding to the local customs and communities for a more memorable trip.

Hula Shows – Skip the pricy luau and create your own dinner and a show on a dime. Get a taste of the island with a more reasonably priced, and often tastier, local meal (try Huggos on the Rocks, Hilo Bay Café or Tex Drive-In). Then head each Wednesday at 6pm Queens’ MarketPlace Coronation Pavilion, where island halau (hula troupes) of all ages come to share the beautiful and expressive art of the hula dance in a free show.

Lava Hotspots – Although the national park entrance fee is nominal, for those wanting a quick glimpse of the action along with a vantage point that shows the dramatic billowing steam and internal explosiveness of hot lava hitting the cool ocean waters sans fee, the Kalapana Lava Viewing Area is the place to be. Located at the end of Highway 130 in the Puna District, the site is open daily from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., but no cars are allowed in after 8 p.m.

Traditional Stone Oven Baking —  Locals and visitors join to practice the traditional art of baking in a large wood-fired communal forno, located in the pasture below the H.N. Greenwell Store Museum. Mixing, rolling dough and baking it in the hand-fired oven takes place every Thursday from 10-1, when the bread is then sold to the general public for a nominal price until all the loaves are pau.

Hit the Beach – Possibly the best reason to visit Hawai’i, all the beaches are public and parking free at some of the best sandy spots on the island. On the Kona side try: Holoholokai Beach, with snorkeling, tide pools; Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve and its hundreds of unique ancient lava carvings just a stroll away; Anaehoomalu Beach, where kayak, bodyboards, hydrobikes can be rented and a historic fishpond can be explored; or Kauanoa Beach, which has been touted as one of the best beaches in the country.

On the Hilo side opt for: Kolekole Beach Park with its banyan tree rope swing and jungle garden; Onekahakaha Beach Park with safe swimming, family snorkeling and tidal pools to explore; and Lelewi Beach Park known locally for prime snorkeling and full facilities.

Rub Elbows with the Stars — The Visitor Information Station  at the 9,300 foot  level of Mauna Kea, has a free nightly stargazing program held every night of the year from 6:00 pm until 10:00 pm. (no reservations necessary). Often above the clouds, the night skies at the VIS rival any other stargazing location in the world. The program begins with a film at 6p.m., followed by a gazing session on the lanai where experts teach visitors about open clusters, globular clusters, double stars, nebulae, planets, galaxies and supernova remnants and adjust telescopes to spot these astronomical delights. The memorable programs ends with a laser tour of the constellations. *Make sure to gas up before heading to the remote outpost and dress warmly, the altitude might have you forgetting that you’re in the islands

Photo Credit: Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park – a Can’t Miss opportunity to see a live volcano, often erupting, where normal fees are nominal ($10 per vehicle, good for seven days of in-and-out exploring) – however the park has designated July 13, 2013 (Annual Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Cultural Festival), August 25, 2013 (National Park Service Birthday), September 28, 2013 (National Public Lands Day) and November 9-11, 2013 (Veterans Day weekend) as free days to enjoy the trails, museum, film, parking, and more. The July 13 Cultural Festival offers insight into local customs and history with hands-on activities for kids and presentations for the whole family. The website offers details on eruption times and where to get the best views.

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Access to Georgia’s largest barrier island is limited to ferries.  Pristine maritime forests conceal bird rookeries and alligator holes.

Jekyll Island
Jekyll Island is best known for its Club era from 1886-1942, serving millionaires such as the Rockefellars, the Morgans, and the Goulds.  The state of Georgia acquired the island from the Jekyll Island Club members and transformed the land into the Jekyll Island Authority –  a well-preserved, public facility.  Today, the 5,000+ acre island functions as a low-cost, vacation destination for tourists world-wide.  Accommodations include 10 hotels, rental cottages, a campground, and 18 restaurants.   Attractions include the island’s pristine beaches, and sports such as golf, tennis, biking, and sailing.  Moreover, the island hosts its own water park, as well as a convention center.  Dogs are allowed in the Jeckyll Campground.

Image from normanack

St. Simmons Island
Where you don’t see moss-draped oaks, shady lanes, and creek-fed pockets of marsh, you’ll find stretches of soft, Georgia sand.  St. Simmons Island is home to a large bird population, as well as other wildlife such as turtles, armadillo, and deer.  Beach activities range from sailing, fishing, and kayaking, and land activities include golf, tennis, and hiking.  In particular, a Ropes Course provides a challenging thrill for young children, as well as adults.   Further from the beach, popular activities include the St. Simmons Island Lighthouse, reconstructed in 1872 from its 1862 original, and Georgia Charter Fishing, a popular spot among the Golden Isles.  Additionally, the island has a variety of art galleries, museums, and historical sites.  St. Simmons Island is especially nice for dog lovers, since dogs are allowed on the beaches from September through April.  Clean up after your canine companion.

Tybee Island
Also known as Savannah Beach, Tybee Island is a seven mile long island located approximately 15 miles from Savannah.  The island is best known for its year-round, relaxed atmosphere.  A wide, 3-mile long beach is backed by sand dunes and fronted by the crisp, blue Atlantic Ocean.  Sunbathers, people-watchers, and swimmers alike flock to this beach year after year due to its laid back and fun ambience.  If you’re into strolling around and checking out the scene, the south-end pier is a great place to walk and check out live music at the nearby pavilion.  History buffs will love Fort Screven, the Tybee Island Lighthouse (1773), museums, and Fort Pulaski.  Accommodations include hotels, condos, inns, and great restaurants.  Activities range from deep sea fishing charters, sea kayaking, island cruises and tours, bike rentals, and swimming.

Cabo San Lucas & San Jose del Cabo
The Baja California peninsula has miles and miles of optimal sand beaches, fishing, and golfing.  Of course, the party scene is always big at this exciting destination.

Image from Marrovi

Playa Costa Azul and Playa Canta Mar attract surfers from all around due to their high surf and wind conditions.

Image from jeffgunn

Playa Solmar, from January through April, is a great place for whale watching.  If you have boat access, go offshore for outstanding scuba and snorkeling conditions, but beware of strong riptides.

Image from ProveIt

Los Cabos
Los Cabos has wide stretches of sand that roll into the water, all fronted by crashing waves.

Image from dro!d

Land’s End
Land’s End is a wide expanse of soft white sand.  The beach is a wonderful place to come for sunbathing or taking a leisurely walk by the water.  The surf can be fairly strong, so it is not the best place for beginner swimmers.  Land’s End is also a favorite place to come for whale watching.

Image from Benefactor123

Lover’s Beach (Playa Del Amor)
Lover’s Beach is a small, secluded beach with access to both the Pacific Ocean and the Cabo San Lucas marina.  The beach is accessed by walking over the rocks from Land’s End Beach or by water from the marina.  Lover’s Beach allows you to swim and snorkel in the clam waters of the marina, and then head over to the Pacific side of the beach to relax on the sand and listen to the waves come crashing down on the shore.

Image from elvis_pelt

Medano Beach
Medano is one of the most popular beaches in Cabo San Lucas.  There is always something going on at Medano.  The beach is lined by stores, hotels, restaurants, and bars, as well as numerous vendors actually on the beach, so you don’t need to worry about leaving anything at home.  Medano has calm waters and is great for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports such as parasailing, wind surfing, and jet skiing.   The beach is also a popular hangout for its bustling nightlife.

Image from owenstache

Santa Maria Beach
Santa Maria Beach is a sandy beach that has plenty of space for everyone to lie down and relax by the calm waters.  Santa Maria has fantastic reefs and vegetation, which makes it a local favorite for swimming, snorkeling and diving.

Image from PriceTravel pictures

Acapulquito Beach & Costa Azul Beach
These two beaches are separated only by a small group of rocks.  These tow beaches are the premier beaches for surfing in Cabo San Lucas.  The surf is very powerful, so it is not a great place for swimming.  However, the beaches are always lined to with people who want to watch the surfers.  There are shops and restaurants right next to the beaches.

Image from d∂wn

Playa Cemeterio and Playa Santa Maria have calm waters, ideal for swimming.

Image from PriceTravel pictures