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Posts Tagged ‘Beach Destinations’

Regardless of which coast you decide to visit, there are an amazing amount of high quality beaches in the United States. The people on the west coast might be known for taking it a bit slower and enjoying life a little more, but once you get to the beach on the east coast, that fast-paced and rushed lifestyle immediately goes out the window. Whether it’s the beach, the horizon, the sand, or some other unknown factor, east coast beaches have some form of tranquilizing effect. You have an urge to relax the instant you get there.

If you like to relax on white sandy beaches while looking at a crystal clear ocean and the most beautiful people in the world, then your first stop should definitely be South Beach, which is located in Miami, Florida. This beach took over as the most popular spring break destination about a decade ago, only in this case, the party never ends. Expect to see a younger crowd. And if you’re not into relaxing, then jet skiing and socializing are also popular activities.

If you travel up the coast just a few hours, you will reach Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The beaches here are known for their cleanliness as well as the promenade at Lauderdale Beach and walkable dunes at Hollywood Beach. Beachgoers range from families to college kids.

Travel north to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for an active beach atmosphere. It’s ironic that South Carolina is where you will find one of the most active beaches, but it’s probably the most active and fast-paced area in the state. There are all types of hotels and resorts flanking the beach. This is a place you go for action, not sanctuary. It’s a popular beach for families as well as college kids and senior citizens.

If you keep traveling north, you will hit Virginia Beach. This is another active area, where scuba diving, waterskiing, cycling and running are all very popular. There is also a boardwalk that stretches for miles.

If you like water parks, haunted houses, funnel cakes, pizza, and novelty shops while being only steps away from the ocean, then Wildwood, New Jersey is where you want to be. This is a very family-oriented area with an emphasis on good-natured fun. If you have a family and love the beach, this is highly recommended.

Are you more of the laid back type who enjoys fishing and/or eating at restaurants that overlook the ocean? If that’s the case then you should check out Montauk, New York. Montauk is at the farthest point on Long Island and over two hours away from the hustle and bustle of New York City. It is also the epitome of a beach town.

If you’re looking for rocky beaches for picnics and sightseeing, then just keep heading up the coast to Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine. Acadia National Park has some of the most beautiful views in the continental United States.

If you live on or plan on visiting the east coast, it’s hopeful that one of the beaches listed matches what you’re looking for.

Brazil is generally known for its colorful culture and beautiful beaches, where Brazilians gather to soak up the sun and party until dawn. If you are looking for a relaxed and hassle free vacation where your only worry is to decide which beach to go to in the morning, Brazil is the perfect destination. In the southeast of the country, you will find gorgeous beaches and laid back towns where it is a pleasure to spend a carefree holiday. Read this guide to the best beaches in the region to help you plan your exciting vacation.

A lovely beach resort, Buzios is conveniently located next to Arraial do Cabo on a peninsula which boasts no less than 17 incredible beaches. In the past, Buzios used to be a small fishing village, but it has now been turned into a high-end resort, with designer shops, fancy restaurants and opulent villas lining its streets. The best beaches of Buzios are located in the south. Although less accessible, they are also the most beautiful and great for surfing. Among the most popular beaches, you will find Geriba and Ferradurinha, Ferradura, Praia Olho de Boi, and Praia Brava.

If what you are seeking is true relaxation and calm, away from the crowds of tourists and partygoers, head out to Ilha Grande, a stunning island about 150km west off the coast of Rio de Janeiro. This small tropical-like island, home to only three settlements and covered with unspoiled beaches and rainforest, is one of the most beautiful beach destinations in the country, and relatively untouched by massive tourism. The island is busier on weekends, as a favorite among locals, but still retains its quaint and authentic charm. It can be easily reach with a 1h30 ferry-ride from Angra dos Reis on the mainland (about 3hrs from Rio de Janeiro by bus).

Parati is a lovely coastal town, generally very lively from Christmas to Carnival and on the weekends, but quiet and relaxed the rest of the year, which makes it a delightful beach destination. Boasting myriad jutting peninsulas and secluded beaches, Parati is beautifully set against mountains covered by the jungle, overlooking hundreds of islands and their crystal clear waters. Around Parati lie 65 islands and 300 beaches. If you really want to get away from it all, rent a small motorboat at the port and the skipper will take you wherever you want, to the most secluded and beautiful beaches.

Planning a family beach vacation? Looking for destinations with family resorts that have fun sports and activities for the whole family, all inclusive resorts where meals are included and kid clubs? Here are some of the most popular beach destinations for families to unwind and relax:

Mexico

Mexico, especially the Cancun area, and Mayan Riviera, an hour’s drive south of Cancun, is a popular place for family beach vacations. The Mayan Riviera is one of the regions of Mexico – and the world- which offers the richest variety of landscapes and archaeological treasures including Mayan ruins, coral reef, snorkelling lagoons, and eco-theme parks such as Xcaret. Hotels, resorts, restaurants, and attractions throughout Mexico welcome families with open arms.

Jamaica

Jamaica is considered by many to be the most beautiful of all the Caribbean Islands and is one of the top family-vacation destinations in the Caribbean. Many of Jamaica’s resorts offer supervised children’s activities, babysitters, family discounts, and kid’s meals. Jamaica has an abundance of top all-inclusive chains including: Sandals Beaches, SuperClubs Breezes resorts and Club Med. There are also many other family vacation options such as the Franklyn D. Resort in Runaway Bay, Jamaica, where families have their own vacation nanny during their stay.

Turks and Caicos

On a 12-mile stretch of satiny white-sand, Beaches Turks & Caicos is one of the premier family resorts on the island.With separate programs for infants, toddlers and teens, each is designed to give each age the activities they love. So when you’re off doing your thing, they’re off doing theirs. There are many other resorts to stay at this idyllic family beach destination

Bahamas

Home to the Atlantis Bahamas resort and many other excellent family resorts, there will not be a dull moment on your Bahamas family vacation. Blessed with the perfect location-less than 100 miles off the coast of Florida, the perfect climate- averaging a little over 75 degrees, and the perfect surroundings-crystal clear turquoise blue waters and pearly white beaches, the Islands of the Bahamas is the perfect destination for your next family beach vacation.

Hawaii

A Family Hawaii Vacation has it all. Beautiful beaches, world-class golf, surfing, shopping, swimming, top notch hotels, condominiums, eco tours, national parks, warm weather, and cool ocean breezes. The four islands that are popular for a family Hawaii Vacation are Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and Kauai.

Florida

Florida is a popular family beach destination because the climate is warm year round, it is easy to get to, it offers good value for your money, there are endless options for sightseeing and attractions for you family depending on what area you are in, and the beaches in Florida are numerous. In addition to beach destinations and of course Walt Disney World, there are tons of other family outings including Universal Studios, Sea World, Bush Gardens and many more.

Don’t Forget Family Cruises

This is a very popular family vacation option and my personal favorite. Cruises with kids offer great value, choice and freedom! There are a lot of misconceptions about cruising such as it is only for older people and not suited for families, it is too rigid, there is nothing to do, you’ll feel trapped, you’ll get seasick, it’s too expensive! All is these statements are false and could not be further from the truth. Bring your kids along on almost any cruise and they’ll have the time of their lives.

Hotels in Antigua are an ideal haven for visitors as this Caribbean island is becoming one of best beach destinations in the world. Each year, thousands of tourists flock the city for the breathtaking landscapes and the warm and friendly people. The vast beach is dotted with hotels, bars and restaurants. Antigua also offers some of the most secluded getaways if you want that, and more. If you want to see some of the best coral reefs in the world, hire a boat and you can scuba dive and see the underwater beauty that is indescribable.

Aside from the fabulous beaches, Antigua is also rich in cultural heritage. There are many things to see and do including visiting the museum that was once a Georgian dockyard. Antigua’s colorful buildings and churches are such a sight to see, and if you are fond of old buildings, you are in for a treat; it is a photographer’s paradise too. Water sports abound in Antigua, and witness one of the world’s best sunsets. This place is much closer to paradise.

There are numerous hotels in Antigua, for every budget and taste. You can choose from some of the best hotels, laid back or backpacker’s lodge. If you want a great view with lush rainforest, overlooking the coast and hills on your personal balcony, then you should be ready for Carlisle Bay Antigua which is one of the most expensive and the best hotels in the Caribbean. Apart from the standard room amenities like telephone, internet access and room service, this hotel garnered many awards for their tropical themed designs, relaxing ambiance, and excellent customer service.

The Royal Antiguan is one of the most luxurious hotels in Antigua awarded with three stars for its quality service and top amenities. Amidst the white sand and tropical gardens, the Royal Antiguan has an unobstructed view of the beach. The rooms are immaculately clean, comfortable with stylish furnishings and perfect for honeymoons or a holiday getaway. The hotel amenities includes live entertainment, Jacuzzi, internet access, room service, a bar and telephone. The Royal Antiguan is perfect for a family vacation with programs designed for children by the friendly hotel staff.

The Cortsland hotel is perfect for both leisure and business. The hotel features conference facilities with complete modern equipment and professional staff. The Cortsland is conveniently located at the heart of Dickerson Bay and St. John’s. This hotel is also a wonderful place for a quiet retreat and if you want to immerse yourself in the island’s culture, this is the hotel for you. The Royal Antiguan is rated with two stars with a standard telephone, and babysitting amenities.

Antigua has a fairly tropical climate which is an almost perfect year round destination. Visitors usually choose the months of December to April where the air is cool, while the months of September to October are hot and humid, just avoid the hurricane season.