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The 11 Most Instagrammable Beaches in the USA

Hanalei Bay in Hawaii

It won’t be long before summer draws to a close, meaning that if you haven’t yet had a beach getaway this season, now is the time to do so. Of course, everyone wants some good vacation snaps to share on social media, so if visual appeal is what you’re after, here are the X most Instagrammable beaches in the USA.

Shark Fin Cove, California

Secret beaches always have such a special feel to them, and this is exactly what you will find at Shark Fin Cove. Hidden away off Highway 1, this beach is named after its shark fin-shaped outcrop just out in the water.

This sandy beach is surrounded by looming sandstone cliffs, and while it may look small, there’s plenty of space here to give people privacy. The fact that the only way to access this beach is by a steep rocky path puts many of the crowds off, even though the path is only a third of a mile in length.

What’s there to do here?

There’s isn’t much in the way of facilities, but the natural wonders that you will find here are bound to keep you busy for quite a while. Don’t forget to also spend some time exploring the sea cave that has been carved out by the waves over the years.

Grayton Beach State Park, Florida

Florida is known for its picturesque beaches, but the Grayton Beach State Park, which sits on the Gulf Coast, is one of the state’s finest. This beach sprawls out for 400 acres, boasting clean white sands and a coastal dune lake that is packed with wildlife, along with fishing and paddling opportunities.

One of the features that really helps this beach to stand out is the fact that it is home to the first underwater museum in the country; the Underwater Museum of Art.

Wondering how that works?

There are seven unique sculptures placed 60 feet under the water, each one designed to help reef fish flourish. If you’re a certified diver, you can dive down and explore these sculptures close-up, while snorkelers can take a look at them from above.

Hanalei Bay, Hawaii

You probably expected a Hawaiian beach to feature on this list – let’s face it, Hawaii is home to so many exquisite, Instagrammable beaches. However, one of the most impressive is Hanalei Bay, which can be found on the north shore of the island of Kauai.

Technically, Hanalei Bay is made up of a few different beach parks, all joining together to create a two-mile stretch of gorgeous beach. With a magnificent mountain range as a backdrop, Hanalei Bay looks stunning no matter where you’re standing.

Visit in the winter when the waves are larger for surfing, or in the summer if you prefer tranquil water for swimming. There are several other activities on offer here too, such as:

  • Paddle boarding
  • Kayaking
  • Swimming

Lindquist Beach, U.S. Virgin Islands

St. Thomas is known for its beautiful beaches, and while some of them may regularly be flanked by tourists, Lindquist Beach is a little lesser-known. It sits within the protected Smith Bay Park, which sprawls out for 21 acres and provides a lush backdrop that has earned this beach a prime spot in many television commercials.

This is a great beach for swimming – if you head to the west end, you’ll find a small bay where the water is even more shallow. Diving and snorkeling are great here as well, with the water being so rich in marine life. Simply relaxing on the sand is always a delight too, and you’ll notice that, when the sun is shining from a certain angle, the beach glimmers with a hint of pink.

There are only a few facilities here, which is why the beach still has such a laid-back ambience. In between the sea grape trees and the coconut grove are a couple of cabins that can be rented for parties, along with bathrooms and picnic tables.

Once you’ve had your fill of the beach, head into the heart of St. Thomas to indulge in some retail therapy. Be sure to stop off at the OROGOLD Virgin Islands Store – your skin will love a VIP facial after all of that time in the sun!

Topsail Beach, North Carolina

Located just off the coast of North Carolina, Topsail Beach is a part of Topsail Island, a 26-mile long barrier island that was previously only accessible by boat. After World War II, two bridges were built to connect the island to the mainland, allowing visitors to appreciate the magnificent beauty of the island’s untouched beaches.

With its white sand and sparkling waves, Topsail Beach is a photographer’s dream. For those seeking wildlife, there are several sites along the beach designed to encourage sea turtle breeding, allowing their dwindling population to flourish once again.

There are so many activities to try here, including:

  • Boat tours
  • Nature and wildlife tours
  • Kayaking
  • Parasailing
  • Paddle boarding
  • Windsurfing

There are also a handful of shops and cafes along the shore, giving you somewhere to go when you need some time away from the sun.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

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Haystack Rock ⛰️

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Often referred to as one of the most beautiful places in the world, Cannon Beach is a small city in northwest Oregon that is known for its sandy stretch of coastline. Haystack Rock has become an iconic feature of the beach, and it’s also a haven for wildlife, including the tufted puffin.

Once you’ve filled your camera with photos of this exquisite beach, head on over to Hug Point for some truly Instagrammable shots of the waterfalls. Then, spend some time exploring the Ecola State Park; there are several paved walking trails here that provide some incredible viewpoints of your surroundings.

Sandbridge Beach, Virginia

There are so many different stretches of sandy coastline to choose from in Virginia Beach, but most visitors tend to flock to those closest to the boardwalk. Sandbridge Beach tends to be lesser-known, meaning that you won’t have to deal with crowds. The waves here are also much calmer, making it a great beach for swimming.

This is quite a secluded beach, making it a great one for relaxing and unwinding. For those seeking a more rugged adventure, the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and the False Cape State Park are only a short distance away.

Don’t worry about this beach being too far out of town either – it’s just a few miles away from downtown Virginia Beach, meaning a short drive. Once you head back into town, pop into the OROGOLD Lynnhaven Mall store to treat your skin to a relaxing facial. You will also be able to enjoy product demonstrations and customized skin consultations.

Cupsogue Beach, New York

Located in the Cupsogue Beach State Park in the Hamptons, Cupsogue Beach is a popular stretch of sand. Fortunately, since it sprawls out for 296 acres, this beach never gets too crowded.

Swimming is popular in these calm waters, and there are lifeguards on duty to keep everyone safe. The white sand beaches are a joy to stroll on, especially if you stop off for a home-cooked treat at the snack bar. If you would like to catch your own, this is where you will find some of the best saltwater bass fishing in all of the Hamptons.

There are plenty of facilities on this beach too, including showers and changing rooms.

Gooch’s Beach, Maine

The coastal area of Kennebunk itself is such an Instagrammable destination, but your camera won’t stop clicking once you reach Gooch’s Beach. Yes, there are two other gorgeous beaches to choose from (Middle Beach and Mother’s Beach) that make up this trio, but Gooch’s Beach is the largest and is home to some of the sandiest stretches of coastline.

The lifeguards on duty here make this a great beach for swimming, and the summer months see surfers flock to the shore. If you enjoy a spot of fishing, the Kennebunk River is where you will find plenty of bass.

Keep in mind that Gooch’s Beach is only 0.6 miles long, so it can get pretty crowded during peak tourist season.

Surfside Beach, Texas

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These are the rules for camping on the county/free beach. Remember there is no camping allowed within the four miles of the city limits of Surfside beaches. Looking to camp out on our beach this summer? ⛺️ Here's what you need to know: •There is no fee or permit to camp at or visit Follett's Island. •There are no designated camping spots to reserve. •Through September, portable toilet units are available for use along beach access points one and two. •Do not bring glass of any kind. •Dispose of your trash properly. •The state-protected sand dune areas are off-limits. •No person shall camp on any public beach for a period greater than 14 consecutive days. In an effort to minimize the risk of the COVID-19 virus, we ask that all park and beach visitors follow the social distancing guidelines placed by the CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fprepare%2Fprevention.html Find more info. about Follett's Island here: https://www.brazoriacountytx.gov/departments/parks-department/follet-s-island #camprules #follettsisland #surfsidebeachtexas

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Texas is home to over 400 miles of coastline, meaning that there are plenty of Instagrammable beaches to be found in the Lone Star state. However, one of the best is Surfside Beach, often referred to simply as Surfside, which is less than an hour’s drive from Houston. Located in Brazoria County, Surfside Beach is known for being one of the cleanest in the area, even though it attracts large numbers of visitors.

As you can tell from its name, Surfside Beach is a hit with surfers. Its waves are consistent and are recognized as being some of the best in the state. There are also several surf shops within walking distance of the beach – perfect for picking up any surf gear you’ve forgotten to pack.

Since the beach is located so near to the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge, the beach itself has become a paradise for many wildlife species. In fact, more than 200 species of birds have been seen here, with different ones visiting each season.

If you get hungry, there are a number of local restaurants to choose from a short walk away from the beach. Here are a few of the best:

  • Jetty Shack is one of the oldest restaurants here, with juicy burgers and ice cold beer
  • Red Snapper Inn is famous for its fresh seafood
  • La Taqueria de Surfside serves up street tacos, and sits just behind Surfin’ Rita’s Daiquiris To Go – the perfect combination
  • Hammond’s Shaved Ice & Grill is another street food venue with barbecue brisket sandwiches, chopped brisket tacos, and icy cold treats that are so refreshing on a hot day

Singing Beach, Massachusetts

This 0.5 mile long Massachusetts beach, which can be found in Manchester-by-the-Sea, has quite an unusual name.

Want to know the story behind it?

If you shuffle your feet along the dry sand, you’ll hear it make a sing-song-sounding squeak.

This beautiful sandy beach is one of the most popular on the North Shore, but still remains so tranquil and serene. The soft white sand here is perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially if you time your visit for around sunset. If you’d like to get a bit more active, try your hand at some snorkeling or tube floating.

There are a few facilities here, including a snack bar with delicious icy treats on hot days, showers, and changing areas.

The USA is home to some incredible beaches, with every coastal state having at least one that they can be truly proud of. No matter where on the coastline you are, you’re never too far away from a picturesque beach that is more than deserving of an Instagram post!

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Best Things To Do on Sentosa Island, Singapore

Sentosa is a small island located off the southern coast of Singapore, and is connected to the mainland by road, cable car, monorail and a pedestrian boardwalk. This resort island is absolutely packed with attractions, activities, and hotels, but, if you only have a day to spend on Sentosa, here are some of the things that you definitely should not miss.

Universal Studios Singapore

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Universal Studios Singapore
If you are visiting Sentosa with children, then it is likely that a visit to Universal Studios Singapore is unavoidable. This sprawling complex has enough attractions to appeal to just about everybody, with everything from themed rides and live shows to Hollywood movie sets.

Tiger Sky Tower
The Tiger Sky Tower is the highest viewing tower in Singapore, and stands at 131 metres above sea level. Visitors enter a cabin on the ground floor, and this slowly revolves and ascends until it reaches the top. Once at the top, you will be able to enjoy a panoramic view of Sentosa and Singapore, as well as parts of Malaysia and Indonesia.

Sentosa Butterfly & Insect Kingdom
The Sentosa Butterfly & Insect Kingdom boasts over 3000 different species of insects from all around the world, all set within green, tropical surroundings. The abundance of vegetation here, plus the two waterfalls to cool the air, really adds to the experience, and you will no doubt be blown away by the colorful butterflies flitting around your head. In addition to the butterflies and other insects, you will also be able to see other animals, such as jungle parrots and a variety of different species of reptiles, including snakes and lizards.

Siloso Beach, Singapore

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The Beaches
Although Sentosa’s beaches are man-made, with the soft white sand being imported in from Malaysia, there is 3.2 kilometres of beautiful beach to be enjoyed here, an experience that cannot be had anywhere else in Singapore. Palawan Beach is one of the most popular, and is known for its suspension bridge that connects Sentosa to another tiny island. Tanjong Beach is also great, especially during the daytime, as it enjoys a more secluded location. Finally, there is Siloso Beach, which is on the south-western tip of Sentosa, and is where you will find the highest concentration of bars, hotels, restaurants and shops on the island, although the other two beaches do have plenty of facilities nearby too.

Fort Siloso
For those who want to learn more about Singapore’s history, a visit to Fort Siloso, a preserved fort, is a must. This fort has now been turned into a military-themed attraction, but still features its tunnels, barracks, ammunition bunkers and gun emplacements, as well as a collection of guns, photographs and other memorabilia that date from the 17th century to WWII.

Sentosa is home to so many different attractions that you will likely want to spend as much time here as possible. From the views from the top of the Tiger Sky Tower to the adrenaline-fuelling rides at the Universal Studios Singapore, these are just a few of the things available to do on Sentosa Island.

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Top 4 Beaches in the Philippines

The Philippine archipelago consists of over 7000 islands, so it should come as no surprise that the country is home to some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world. If you are having a difficult time deciding which ones to actually visit, these are some of the top beaches in the Philippines.

El Nido, Palawan

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El Nido, Palawan
With Palawan frequently being rated as the best island in the world, and El Nido as one of the best beaches, this is a destination that everybody visiting the Philippines should try to check out. On the island of Palawan itself, there are about 50 white sand beaches to choose from, each of which is rich in marine life, from dolphins to dugongs, as well as over 100 species of coral. When it comes to El Nido, this is the largest marine reserve and sanctuary in the country, as well as one of the Philippines’ most diverse ecosystems, making it a must-visit for those who enjoy exploring the wonderland that lies beneath the surface of the water.

Palaui Island, Cagayan Valley
The beach on Palaui Island is considered to be quite the hidden gem and takes a fair bit of effort to access, requiring a trek through tall, thorny grass and a mangrove forest. Nevertheless, this is a beach that has been untouched by the modern world and boasts soft white sand that is backed by volcanic rocks. Within the water is a rich marine reserve, filled with coral gardens, which are a joy to explore either by diving or snorkeling. There are no resorts or hotels on Palaui, but camping on this stunning beach is always a popular way to spend the night.

White Beach, Boracay Island, Philippines

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White Beach, Boracay
Boracay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, and White Beach is one of its finest beaches, and, just like El Nido, has regularly been voted as one of the best in the world. This four kilometre stretch of white sand attracts everyone from families to adventure-seekers and is complete with beach bars, restaurants, and evening entertainment. For those seeking more of an adrenaline-rush, the eastern side of Boracay is the place to go for extreme water sports, as this part of the island has strong winds throughout the year.

Caramoan, Camarines Sur
Caramoan is a scenic and secluded beach, with wide stretches of white sand that run in between impressive boulders and rock formations. This is a beach that is filled with natural features that are begging to be explored, from its waterfalls and fresh water pools to its underground streams, lagoons, and caves. Due to its astounding natural beauty, this is an area that has been featured in a number of television shows, including the popular Survivor reality TV show.

Deciding which beaches to visit in the Philippines can no doubt be difficult, as visitors are so spoilt for choice. However, no matter which ones you end up picking, you are likely to be rewarded with the softest of white sand, the bluest of waters and incredible natural beauty all around.

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Unique Attractions in Pismo Beach

Located on the Central Coast of California, halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Pismo Beach is a quintessential Californian beach town. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventure or the chance to be at one with nature, these are a few of the unique attractions to be found in Pismo Beach.

Pismo Beach

State Parks
Pismo Beach is home to two of California’s finest state parks, both of which give visitors the opportunity to get closer to nature. The Montana de Oro State Park features over 8000 acres of sandy beaches, coastal plains, canyons and hills, and is known for being one of the largest state parks in California, while the Morro Bay State Park is home to the Museum of Natural History, as well as a vibrant marina and plenty of outdoor activities.

The Monarch Butterfly Grove
Each year between October and February, thousands of orange and black Monarch butterflies head to Pismo Beach to shelter from the freezing winters up north. On average, around 25,000 butterflies can be found here each year, making it one of the largest colonies in the country. The butterflies gather in the limbs of native Eucalyptus trees, forming a tight cluster to protect each other from the wind and the rain.

Sunset

Skim Boarding
While surfing and skateboarding may both be iconic Californian sports, skim boarding is quite unique to Pismo Beach, and is basically a mix of the two. Riders wait at the shore with their skim board in hand, and, as soon as a wave breaks, they skim across the surface of the water, which is only a few inches deep. For those who have never skim boarded before, Pismo Beach is a great spot to give this a try, with boards available for rental at the Pismo Beach Surf Shop.

Biplane Rides
For those who want unbeatable views of Pismo Beach’s rugged coastline, a biplane ride is an absolute must, and can be found at Oceano Airport. Offered by Banner Airways, visitors are able to enjoy a ride in the open cockpit of a biplane that dates back to WWII, which was the same aircraft that was used to train American pilots. There are a range of rides available, from the serene and picturesque to the exhilarating and adrenaline-pumping, all of which offer views that cannot be found elsewhere.

Pismo beach with surfers

Oceana Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area
Located just three miles south of Pismo Beach, the Oceana Dunes SVRA is the only state park in California that allows vehicles to be driven on the beach. This is an extremely unique park that offers an off-road adventure to visitors, with 5.5 miles of beach, and 1500 acres of sand dunes, to be explored. In addition to racing around on off road vehicles, there are many other activities to be found here at the Dunes, from surfing and swimming to bird watching and horseback riding, the latter of which is best done at sunset.

Pismo Beach is a one-of-a-kind destination, and it has plenty of unique attractions to match this. From skim boarding to biplane rides, this is a great area to visit if you want to try something new, while exploring one of the most spectacular parts of the Californian coast line.

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Great Beaches in the Middle East

 

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

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The Middle East is home to some of the finest beaches in the world, but, due to political reasons, beach tourism is often not promoted heavily in many areas. Nevertheless, each of these beaches are truly spectacular in their own right, and are well worth considering for your next beach vacation.

Beit Yanai Beach, Israel
Considered to be one of the best beaches in Israel, Beit Yanai Beach is located about a 20-minute drive from Tel Aviv. Since the beach is run and managed by the Israel Parks and Nature Authority, it is extremely clean, relatively quiet, and has some great facilities. Since the beach is not protected from the sea, it often experiences massive waves, making it a popular spot for surfing and kitesurfing.

Khor Kalba Beach, Sharjah, UAE
The beach at Khor Kalba is extremely hidden and tucked away, but this is a large part of its charm. What it lacks in amenities, it makes up for in privacy, seclusion and incredible natural beauty. From the surrounding mangroves to the nesting turtles, Khor Kalba in itself is an important nature reserve, and the beach is a fine example of a conservation success. The waters here are calm, and if you want the utmost in serenity, it is best to pay the beach a visit during the weekdays.

Mughsayl Beach, Oman

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Mughsayl Beach, Oman
Oman boasts about 1000 miles of coastline, many parts of which are just simply breathtaking. Hidden away in southern Oman, Mughsayl Beach offers quite a diverse experience, depending on when in the year you visit it. In the summertime, it is reminiscent of a tropical Caribbean island, with coconut groves and banana plantations lining the pristine sand, while in the winter months, giant waves crash into the cliffs, with water exploding out of blow holes dotted along the coastline. The beach is situated about 40 kilometers from Salahah, and is easy to access.

Naqoura, Lebanon
Situated in the south of Lebanon, Naqoura is a small city that boasts an expansive, and extremely clean, beach. Unlike many of the other beaches in Lebanon, this one is free of beach resorts, large crowds and noisy bars, giving you the opportunity to hear the sound of the waves crashing onto the sand, and the breeze rustling through the trees in the forest behind the beach. To access the beach, visitors need to cross a beautiful orchard, which also serves as a turtle reserve, and is home to a number of other wildlife species too. Rumour has it that developers are interested in Naqoura’s beach, so if you want to experience this untouched slice of paradise, now is the time to visit.

While the Middle East may not immediately spring to mind when planning a beach vacation, there is no denying that the beaches found in this part of the world are extremely underrated. From the sandy coconut groves of Oman to the abundant wildlife in Naqoura, these are all considered to be some of the finest beaches that the Middle East has to offer.

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Getting Around in Singapore – Luxury Edition

Although Singapore may be small in size, there is so much to see and do, and while there are a few public transportation options available, it is always fun to indulge a little, traveling around the island in style. Whether you drive around town in a one-of-a-kind Maserati, or explore the country’s many islands aboard a luxury yacht, this is your guide to getting around in Singapore.

VIP Cable Car
Singapore’s cable car network is mostly used to connect the mainland to the island of Sentosa, and offers some spectacular views along the way. Their VIP cabin is ideal for those who want an extra-special experience, as it features a Swarovski crystal studded glass floor, black leather upholstery and a custom-designed sound system. For visitors wanting to travel to Sentosa, or staying on the island but wanting to visit the city each day, this is a stylish way in which to do so, and, if you would like to prolong the journey, you can even enjoy a fine dining meal in your cabin.

Ferrari enzo in Singapore

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Luxury Cars
Singapore boasts a number of different luxury car rental companies, each offering a range of everything from luxury saloons to convertibles to exotics. This is a great way to have the freedom to explore Singapore on your own terms, but the downside to this is having to deal with the city’s notorious traffic congestion. Nevertheless, there are several picturesque drives to be found around the island, from the idyllic scenery of Fairways Drive to the twisty bends of Mt. Faber.

Helicopter Charter
There is no denying that traveling by helicopter is a picturesque mode of transport, and there are many different options when it comes to chartering one in Singapore. Not only will you be able to take in the Singapore skyline from above, but you will also have the added advantage of being able to travel to just about anywhere in the country in just a few minutes! For those who want to combine a helicopter charter with a day of sightseeing, there are many sightseeing tours available, which take you around and over some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Luxury yacht in Singapore

Luxury Yachts
Chartering a yacht is one of the best ways to explore Singapore’s many islands, and Marina at Keppel Bay is home to one of the finest fleets of luxury yachts in the country. Not only will you have your own professional crew, but you can plan your own itinerary and even enjoy a couple of gourmet meals on board. Singapore has a number of offshore islands that are worth visiting, such as Pulau Hantu and its coral reefs, St. John’s Island with its picturesque beaches, and Kusu Island with its famous Chinese temple.

Singapore loves luxury and style, and you are likely to see many luxury cars on the roads, as well as mega-yachts dotting the marina. While a helicopter and cable car may be more unconventional ways to get around the city, you will be guaranteed an unforgettable view that most other tourists are not able to experience.

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Luxurious and Kid Friendly

Kids in a swimming pool

When traveling with children, it can often be difficult finding accommodation that is not only kid friendly, but also luxurious enough to guarantee that the adults will also feel pampered. From an upscale private ranch near the Yellowstone National Park, to an outdoor wonderland in Florida that promises to beat the thrills of Disneyland, these spots are all ideal for those seeking a high-end, yet child-friendly, vacation.

Lone Mountain Ranch, Montana
Yellowstone National Park is the perfect destination for a family vacation, as there is so much to see and do, from taking in the wildlife to hiking through some of the 900 miles of hiking trails that criss-cross around the park. While many families may choose to rough it when it comes to camping, this does not need to be the case, as the Lone Mountain Ranch can be found just outside of the park. This 160-acre private ranch offers a range of luxury cabins, each with their own private deck, giving families plenty of room to relax. The ranch offers guided excursions into the park, as well as plenty of other activities, from horseback riding to fishing on the high alpine lakes.

Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Florida
Disneyland is always going to be one of Orlando’s biggest draws for children, but if you want to offer them an experience that is quite different, check out the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, a high-end spa resort that is set within 500 acres of the Florida Everglades. The rooms and suites, with their balconies, marble bathrooms and soaking tubs, are all exquisitely elegant, while the resort’s facilities, from their eleven restaurants to their three outdoor pools, ensure that there is plenty to do if you do not want to venture too far. The new interactive kids club is a great way to immerse your children in the great outdoors of Florida, while the kayak eco-tours, and fishing excursions, will teach them about the diversity of nature that can be found here.

Monarch Beach Resort, California
Located in Southern California, the Monarch Beach Resort has recently undergone a renovation that cost $40 million, and now boasts a truly impressive set of facilities and services. The guest rooms and suites, decorated in a soothing coastal palette, all feature private balconies and plush living areas, giving families enough room for some space of their own. This is also Miraval Spa’s first coastal location, and, in addition to the range of treatments that they offer up for adults, they also provide meditation and yoga for kids. The gorgeous private beach is another advantage to this resort, where children can enjoy a surfing lesson while parents relax on the sand and soak up the sun, perhaps with some food and drink delivered directly to their lounge chairs from the resort’s Monarch Bay Club.

Summer is the ideal time to jet off on a family vacation, and with each of these destinations situated within the country, it means that you will not have too far to travel. From the mountains of Montana to the beaches of California, each of these hotels and resorts promises a stay that both adults and children will truly love.

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Small Town Travel Picks

While many may find themselves automatically attracted to the big cities of America, the small towns that are sprinkled across the USA also have plenty to offer. With distinct individual characters, historic buildings, world-class bars and restaurants, and unique attractions, a visit to some of these small towns will enable you to discover some of the true treasures that the USA boasts.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe, New Mexico
For those who are interested in art, a visit to Santa Fe, with its thriving art scene and one-of-a-kind creative institutions, such as the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, is absolutely a must. Santa Fe is also rich with history, and is home to the oldest church in the country, the San Miguel Chapel, and many of the town’s local businesses have also set up shop in some of the historical buildings that line the streets.

St. Augustine

St. Augustine, Florida
There is no doubt about the fact that St. Augustine is immensely charming, and boasts unique beaches along with vibrant shopping areas. The Old City Farmers Market is held every Saturday morning and is the perfect way to start your weekend here, while a tour and tasting at the St. Augustine Distillery, which produces vodka, whiskey, rum and gin, is a great way to spend a lazy afternoon.

Traverse City

Traverse City, Michigan
Situated in one of the Midwest’s top wine-producing regions, thanks to the rich soil and lakefront climate, Traverse City is surrounded by numerous wineries and tasting rooms. The town is also famous for its cherry production, and with its annual National Cherry Festival every July, is considered to be the tart cherry capital of the world. The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park is also worth paying a visit, as are the towering dunes that line the lake.

Cape May

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Cape May, New Jersey
Situated at the tip of the Jersey Shore, one of the highlights of Cape May is the way in which it is filled with stunning examples of Victorian architecture, and boasts a number of antique and home décor stores that sell Victorian items. While Cape May and its beaches are obviously popular in the summer months, this small town also finds itself rather busy around Christmas, mostly due to the way in which they go all out decorating Washington Street Mall.

Custer National Park

Custer, South Dakota
A visit to Custer will make you feel as though you have stepped into the Old West, with everything from the Four Mile Old West Town to the Custer State Park Annual Buffalo Roundup to the Crazy Horse Memorial contributing to this. For those who want to check out some of the town’s natural beauty, this can be seen at the Jewel Cave National Park, which boasts one of the longest caves in the world, as well as at the Wind Cave National Park.

Visiting some of America’s small towns is a way to explore the heart and soul of the country. Those who ignore the flashing lights of the city to head to one of these smaller destinations will be rewarded with such a unique sense of discovery, wonder and national pride.

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Packing for a Caribbean Weekend

Woman on a holiday

Packing for any trip can be quite daunting, and when it comes to a weekend in the Caribbean, you need to strike the perfect balance between bringing along everything that you need, while packing lightly and in a way that makes it convenient to travel. From accessories that make it easy for you to jump into the water at a moment’s notice, to the clothes that you need in order to blend in with laid back island life, this guide will help you to perfectly pack for your weekend in the Caribbean.

Clothing
When it comes to clothing, you will need a mix of items that you can wear to the beach, pool, for excursions, and for the evening. Since you will only be in the Caribbean for a weekend, one or two swimwear options will be enough, along with a pair of flip flops. A pair of reliable walking shoes will also be helpful whether you wear them into town or out into the jungles. If you do plan on visiting the wilderness, some long pants and a long-sleeved top will be useful when it comes to protecting your skin from the Caribbean’s many insects. One dressier outfit is necessary for the evenings, whether you plan on hitting the clubs or indulging in a delicious meal at a fine dining restaurant.

Accessories
There are several travel accessories that will prove to be extremely useful to you in the Caribbean. The first is a watertight container that can hang around your neck, one that is large enough to store your phone and any other valuables, enabling you to head out snorkeling whenever you desire. For those who know for certain that they will be doing quite a bit of snorkeling, bringing your own snorkel gear is a good idea, as this will save you having to rent any equipment, and is also much more hygienic. If you know that you will be spending plenty of time by the pool or on the beach, a blow-up pool mattress is always fun, and will not take up too much space in your luggage. You will also need to bring along a small bag that you can take with you on daily excursions, but make sure that you opt for one made from a waterproof material so that you can bring it to the beach and pool as well. Finally, be sure to pack plenty of bug spray, as you are definitely going to be needing this!

Suncare accessories

Sun Accessories
You are likely to be spending much more time in the sun than usual during your Caribbean weekend, making sunscreen absolutely vital. A couple of pairs of sunglasses are also necessary, as is a sun hat and maybe a light cover up, as this will all give you protection from the damage that the sun can cause.

What Not to Pack
It goes without saying that you will not need to pack the items that your hotel is going to provide, such as towels and certain toiletries. You should also make sure that you do not bring any camouflage clothing, as not only is this strictly prohibited, but also illegal in many areas of the Caribbean.

Of course, when packing for any vacation, you need to remember to bring all of the necessary chargers for your electronic devices, be it your phone, camera, tablet or anything else. It always helps to make a checklist when packing, especially for items that you will only be adding to your luggage at the last minute, so that you can rest assured that nothing will be forgotten, and you will have everything that you need for your weekend in paradise.

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Puerto Rican Beach Resorts

San Juan waterfront

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With an intoxicating mixture of sandy beaches, emerald rainforests and an abundance of luxury, the island of Puerto Rico is always tempting when seeking a beach vacation. Whether you pick a small but glamorous boutique resort, or a mega-resort perched high up on a cliff, immersing yourself in island life for a few days will leave you feeling totally rejuvenated.

El San Juan Hotel & Casino
Another beach resort that overlooks Isla Verda Beach, the El San Juan Hotel and Casino stands out from its competition for a few different reasons. Firstly, the resort places a huge focus on gourmet cuisine, and offers nine distinct gourmet restaurants serving up everything from the highest quality Japanese teppenyaki to delectable Southern barbecue bites. The resort’s Encanto Pool Complex has also contributed to its popularity, with swim-up bars, private cabanas, waterfalls, and even a poolside concierge.

Caribe Hilton
Situated between Old San Juan and Condado, the Caribe Hilton offers over 900 rooms and suites, as well as some of the best restaurants and bars in the area. The resort’s Oasis Bar is where the pina colada was invented back in 1954, so it is definitely worth stopping off for a drink and trying the original pina colada. When it comes to spending time out in the sun, guests can choose from the three-level swimming pool or the only private beach in San Juan, guaranteeing privacy and seclusion.

El Conquistador, San Juan.

El Conquistador Resort & Golden Door Spa
When it comes to mega beach resorts, this is the most mega of them all in Puerto Rico. A sprawling compound of Mediterranean-style low rise buildings set across 500 acres, 300 feet above the sea on a towering cliff, El Conquistador Resort and Golden Door Spa is, in a way, like a small city, but this is exactly what their regular guests love about it. With seven swimming pools, 21 restaurants, tennis courts, a golf course, the Golden Door Spa and a water sports marina, a vacation at this destination resort will ensure that all your needs and comforts are fully taken care of.

InterContinental San Juan Resort & Casino
Situated on a two-mile stretch of Isla Verda’s gorgeous white sandy beach, the InterContinental San Juan Resort and Casino is designed to dramatically complement the beauty of the Caribbean. The resort has a few different dining options, each of them equally delicious, from the Mediterranean café to the classic steakhouse to the Japanese restaurant. The pristine beach is easily accessible, but, when guests want some time away from the sand, the resort’s lagoon-style pools, complete with waterfalls and in-pool bars, are the ideal place to chill out.

 

Each of Puerto Rico’s beach resorts offers something slightly different, whether it be gourmet dining, swim-up bars or unbeatable views. The island attracts a wide range of travellers, and the great thing about Puerto Rico’s beach resorts is that they offer a wide variety of rooms, from a standard single to a luxury suite with your own private butler, ensuring that everybody’s needs can be taken care of.