Vero Beach Hotel and Spa

At Vero Beach Resort and Spa, the open concept exterior design opens up onto the oceanfront, offering exceptional views of the Atlantic Ocean and access to one of the best beaches in Florida. This Treasure Coast hotel is filled with the kind of luxury offered in every Kimpton Hotel. Nearby, a charming seaside town is indicative of the area’s inviting atmosphere, rich history, and culture. The hotel has a calming, West Indies style design, and with 113 gracious guest rooms and suites, is neither too big nor too small. Suites are ideal family bases, offered in one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts. The onsite spa is a full-service facility, adding more depth to the already restful environment. The pet-friendly Vero Beach Hotel and Spa also offers a host of leisure activities, a nightly hosted wine event, and a world-class bar and grill.

Reef Ocean Resort

Just down the beach from Vero Beach Hotel and Spa is Reef Ocean Resort, a hotel dedicated to entertaining guests with both active and leisure pursuits. Directly on the grounds, guests enjoy a large pool and hot tub, horseshoe pits, shuffleboard, and a playground. There are also a volleyball and basketball courts, and an oceanfront picnic shelter. Reef Ocean is a timeshare community with 60 units available for rent comprised of efficiencies, studios, and apartments. The hotel’s frontage boasts almost three acres of prime, white sand. Vero Beach Hotels such as Reef Ocean offer ideal access to activities along the nearby Indian River and quick access to the local area’s best entertainment, shopping centers, and theaters. River cruises, boat rentals, and chartered fishing tours are also easy to arrange within the local area.

South Beach Place

Adjacent to South Beach Park is South Beach Place, a rarity in Vero Beach hotels for its boutique status. One-bedroom suites are managed by the hotel’s professional host, and outfitted with furnishings and amenities that create the comfort of home. The grounds are neatly manicured and feature beautiful gardens. There is a heated pool, shuffleboard court, guest laundry facilities, and the ocean, of course, less than 300 yards away. South Beach Place is also conveniently pet friendly and offers concierge service, providing guests with the convenience of easy arrangements for tours, dinner reservations, golf tee times, and more.

Islander Inn

Ocean Drive’s Island Inn is definitely infused with island spirit, from the white-trimmed, soft aqua exterior to the calming colors and wicker furnishings adorning each room. The Islander Inn is small, with only 16 efficiencies and guest suites with private balconies, full kitchens, and Wi-Fi access. No two rooms are alike in decor or design, but each features paddle fans, king or queen beds, and courtyard or pool views. Guests can access the inns complimentary barbeque to cook up that great deep sea catch. The courtyard is one of the inn’s most popular spots, surrounded by a fresh green expanse and complemented with comfortable seating to enjoy the outdoors with a drink or a meal.

One Ocean Resort

One Ocean Resort might attract guests for its intriguing, contemporary name, but it keeps them locked in its hospitable graces with a phenomenal design, world-class hospitality, and irresistible location in Atlantic Beach. Beaches Town Center, with cobbled paths leading to exclusive shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, is directly across the way. North of Ponte Vedra and south of beautiful Amelia Island, Jacksonville Beach is a few minutes drive away. One Ocean is completely ocean-inspired, from lobby waterfalls to rare shell adornments, and beach-themed art. All windows and patios dutifully put the waterfront on distinct display. Luxury is always on the forefront, with guest rooms and suites painted in earth-toned hues and draped in the most lavish of textiles, all meant to soothe and comfort while taking in the ocean view (each room has one). As one of the top luxury Jacksonville Beach hotels, One Ocean wholly deserves all accolades.

Quality Suites Oceanfront

Set amid a sea of restaurants, shops, and entertainment is Quality Suites Oceanfront in Jacksonville near Adventure Landing Waterpark. The location is also within walking distance to Jacksonville Beach, where special concerts and festivals, like Springing the Blues Festival, are held year-round. Hospitality is extended with a distinct Mediterranean flair in this all-suites hotel. Quality Suites features six stories filled with tasteful and modern decor, sofa beds, complimentary high-speed Internet, and laptop-size safes. Each suite has a private balcony with outdoor furnishings overlooking the ocean. Some suites feature whirlpool baths. The pet-friendly hotel also provides a free, hot breakfast each morning, onsite parking, and beach rentals.

Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront

Regal and elegant with views to match, the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront (pictured above) is a show-stopper when it comes to Jacksonville Beach hotels. Almost 1,000 guest rooms offer views of either the St John’s River or the sparkling Jacksonville skyline. Nearby historic and beautiful St Augustine, Jacksonville Landing, Everbank Field, and several other top attractions create plenty for an ambitious itinerary. A 24-hour business center, Hyatt concierge and e-concierge, valet parking, and Wi-Fi are available to guests. Rooms are plush and loaded with irresistible options like the hotel’s signature Grand Bed, lavish bathrooms and amenities, large flat-panel TVs with premium channels. A lounge, café, sports bar, and restaurant offer lots of choice for meals, snacks, and drinks. The rooftop swimming pool is where the best views of Jacksonville are.

Diamondhead Beach Resort

Situated on the beach on Estero Boulevard, Diamondhead Beach Resort and Spa in Fort Myers accommodates tourists with a host of services and amenities that surpass the ordinary. Each of the 124 suites are 700 square feet and feature a living and dining area, private bedrooms, and everything needed in a kitchen. Screened balconies, high-speed Internet, and dual TVs create undeniable comfort indoors. Several hot tubs, a swimming pool, and immediate access to the white-sand beachfront are just outside. The Fort Myers entertainment district is a short walk away, where bistros and restaurants, trendy boutiques, and plenty of specialty shops are located.

Pink Shell Beach Resort

The location itself of Pink Shell Beach Resort speaks volumes of this classic resort’s commitment to rest and relaxation; it is set at the end of Estero Island just before Bowditch Point. Sublime bay and gulf views, white sand, and access to activities both restful and active are at hand. Situated on twelve thriving acres, Pink Shell offers four-star accommodations, including studios, one-, and two-bedroom suites, onsite, open-air dining, and a full-service beauty and health spa. Sightseeing tours, paddle boating, parasailing and more can be arranged directly from the resort. The newly expanded beachfront area offers one of the biggest and best beaches in Fort Myers.

Holiday Inn Fort Myers Beach

A huge swimming pool and sundeck and walk-out access to a broad, expansive beachfront at the Holiday Inn Fort Myers (pictured above) create an ideal and affordable spot for families to enjoy the Fort Myers experience. Standard and double rooms join double oceanfront and two-bedroom suites as lodging options, some complete with seaside balconies. The beach bar and grill is always a great place to relax before or after some beach time or exploring local attractions. The best Fort Myers attractions are at hand, from scuba diving and parasailing to dolphin tours and fishing charters. Lovers Key State Park is only a short drive away. Consistent specials and packages, like convenient extended stay rates, are also available.

Outrigger Beach Resort

Also located on popular Estero Boulevard, Fort Myer’s Outrigger Beach Resort is a beachfront hotel featuring scenic beach frontage and accommodating both business and leisure travelers. Lodging choices here are plentiful; beachfront, pool front, poolside and garden efficiencies, resort view guest rooms, and standard guest rooms are available. With both a bar and guest services center located at the waterfront, along with a café and grill on the premises, most needs are easily taken care of.

Hilton Pensacola Beach

A true beauty, light and bright in design, the Hilton Pensacola Beach (pictured above) looks almost ethereal. There is only one other hotel between the Hilton and Gulf Islands National Seashore, offering a quieter backdrop than most of the best beaches in Florida. The hotel overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and the airport is less than a half-hour away, while Pensacola’s thriving nightlife, shops, and endless water sports are all within a short distance. Guest rooms are equipped ideally for both business travelers and families, with elements catering to both work and leisure. Guests who seek added luxury and personalized service can choose between suites inside the new 17-story hotel tower. One-, two-, and three-bedroom accommodations feature expansive, private balconies with exceptional gulf views. All guests have access to the concierge, recreation desk, valet service, and room service.

Hampton Inn Pensacola Beach

Another solid choice in Pensacola Beach hotels is the Hampton Inn, a Gulf-front hotel amid a large variety of shopping and dining easy to walk to. Set between Sun Ray Village and Spanish Landing, the Hampton Inn is in a great beach location and on a fantastic beach that is exceptionally wide and long enough for exploring with kids or just a romantic, sunset stroll. Plenty of free offerings for guests here; free Wi-Fi internet, daily hot breakfast, and limitless toll free and local phone calls. Guests can access the onsite video arcade, guest laundry facilities, and two heated pools adjacent to the beach. The Hampton’s sister hotel, Hilton Gulf Front Pensacola Beach, is next door complete with an upscale restaurant. Beach rentals are available steps from the hotel; kayaks, paddle boards, umbrellas, beach chairs, surf and boogie boards are all available.

Margaritaville Beach Hotel

East of the Hampton Inn and right on Pensacola Beach is seven-story Margaritaville, one of many Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville hotels. The beachfront gem is a portal into everything beach-inspired, from cool tropical colors to large windows featuring ocean views. Located close to the Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier, Margaritaville is one of few specialty Pensacola Beach hotels that goes easy on most budgets. Outdoors, there is a prominent pool bar serving up a wide variety of specialty cocktails along with the usual menu of drinks, a casual bar and lounge area, and two onsite restaurants. In guest rooms there is free Wi-Fi, iPod docking stations, CD players, and flat-screen TVs. Enjoy security in laptop-size safes and comfort in pillow-top mattresses and down comforters draped over high thread count linens.

Visitors might find one disappointing thing about Glass Beach: You are no longer permitted to bring any of the shiny trinkets home with you. Some visitors still sneak a smooth piece of seaglass into their bags, but the idea is to preserve the beach as it is for future generations. While you might be tempted to take home a souvenir, if everyone did so there would be no glass left on Glass Beach. Beyond the glass, there are many interesting things about this beach. Families love it because it is fun to explore. Watch your kids’ faces light up with wonder as they explore tide pools full of mollusks and crabs.

If you’re planning a visit to Glass Beach Fort Bragg with your family, there is no one to be cautious about. The trail approaching the beach doesn’t have the best traction, and some visitors find it to be dangerous. You are best to arrive wearing a pair of shoes with a solid sole (instead of flimsy flip flops). This beach also offers a great chance to go for a stroll along the rugged Northern California coastline, so those solid shoes will come in handy again. Another popular activity for families is enjoying a picnic. Pack along some picnic items and head out to Glass Beach for a day of fresh air.

This unique beach, located on a picturesque cove, is a favorite along the Northern California coast. Even though you can no longer remove the seaglass, it is worth the trip just to see how nature turned a bad situation, that of dumping garbage into the sea, into something so beautiful. Covering the beach are rounded pebbles of green, yellow, purple, brown, and clear glass. Glass Beach Fort Bragg is now a state park, and is under protection. While visitors will see the occasional reminder of the beach’s former life, such as the odd car part, for the most part the beach is immaculately taken care of, and is a fascinating sight to see.

Glass Beach isn’t the only beach in Northern California worth your time. While the beaches of particularly Southern California, including Malibu, Santa Barbara, Laguna Beach, and Santa Monica, and also Central California, which is home to Santa Cruz and Big Sur, are better known than options in the north, this coastline also has plenty of options. Close to San Francisco you will find Baker Beach, a long stretch of sand that offers gorgeous views of the Golden Gate Bridge and a clothing-optional section. There’s also Point Reyes National Seashore, known for excellent hiking and vantage points to see migrating whales. The relaxed beach lifestyle extends all the way from Southern California along the coast to this northern section too.

The Breakers Palm Beach

Almost 150 acres of redesigned oceanfront property awaits at The Breakers Palm Beach (pictured above), a Florida hotel catering to families, couples, and singles alike. The beachfront at The Breakers is open to guests only, offering an uncrowded experience with access to myriad water sports. Five pools sit at the waterfront flanked by a sundecks and four hot tubs. For daytime use, the hotel offers beach bungalows complete with personal service for the ultimate beach experience and a luxurious oceanfront spa. The sprawling resort also features a whopping nine restaurants and a half-dozen bars and the distinctive Breakers Rees Jones Golf course, a 36-hole championship course, complete with a pro golf academy. Rounding off the amenities are a kid’s camp and family entertainment kiosk, specialty shops including Ralph Lauren, and tennis courses offering pro-certified instruction.

Marriott’s Ocean Pointe

Marriott’s Ocean Pointe is one of the best West Palm Beach hotels. The Marriott’s hotel buildings are designed as separate wings and bordered by a luxurious pool and endless rows of sun loungers. Premium guest rooms and luxury one to three room Marriott villas are lodging options. While guest rooms do offer the convenience of microwaves and small fridges, villas are expanded with full kitchens, separate dining and living areas, and private laundry facilities. Three heated pools with towel service, a hot tub, a sauna, and several sports like volleyball and tennis are also offered. Nearby, there are numerous popular attractions including Palm Beach Zoo, lively Clematis Street, and the Flager Museum.

Hilton Singer Island

Four miles of oceanfront beaches and a rectangular pool with direct boardwalk access to four miles of oceanfront beaches define Hilton Singer Island, along with other Hilton standards such as concierge services, local transportation, and a complimentary drink center. The family package is a favorite that can ease up on vacation costs and paired with services like childcare, a special kids menu, and kids accessories, families rest easy at the Hilton. The well-equipped business center hits on all needs, from meeting spaces to audio-visual gear. Oversized suites along with deluxe guest rooms provide an excellent choices for all needs, and are marked by several in-room services.

Palm Beach Shores Resort

Situated on beautiful Singer Island, Palm Beach Shores Resort is one of the most aesthetically pleasing West Palm Beach hotels. Three wings sit three in a row with one set farther back and two edging out toward the ocean. Around the ground floor, the landscape design is thoughtful, with easy access between onsite eateries, swimming pools, gardens, and the beach. Wave runners, bicycles, and snorkels are provided for daytime entertainment while deluxe cabanas, a posh spa, and beach umbrellas ensure complete R&R. Both shopping and dining are a quick walk away, PGA National courses are a few minutes by car, and nearby Roger Dean Stadium features plenty of big-league baseball games.

You’ve seen the pictures: huts on stilts suspended above the incredible blue and green hues of the ocean. Vacations at the Tahiti beaches deliver all of this and more. From sunning yourself on the deck of a yacht to getting your exercise by paddling in a kayak, travelers can design their own perfect Tahiti getaway. Here, all the stress of everyday life melts away into a series of simple decisions: to continue sunbathing, or sign up for a surf lesson? To have a frozen cocktail now, or after you finish your book? There are many good reasons why Tahiti holidays are so often associated with honeymoons, anniversary celebrations, and romantic getaways.

During Tahiti beach vacations, the romance is endless. From luxury hotels designed for privacy to nightly sunsets that might just change your perspective on life’s simple pleasures, Tahiti is all about focusing visitors in on the gorgeous scenery. One thing many travelers don’t know is the sheer amount of variety that exists here. The islands are spread out over a distance as big as western Europe, and some islands are covered with jagged peaks while other islands seem to barely be floating above the surface of the colorful water. Another surprising fact about Tahiti is that you can reach these islands in only an eight-hour flight from Los Angeles: French Polynesia isn’t as far away as you think.

Pleasures of Tahiti holidays continue with local music, exotic flowers, and fresh cuisine. Those travelers who are seeking a serious escape won’t want to miss the soothing spa treatments that Tahiti has become famous for. Adventurous travelers could easily spend an entire trip snorkeling and scuba diving. Some examples of the rich marine life you will encounter during your excursions include colorful fish and manta rays. No trip to Tahiti would be complete without leaving beyond the warm waters of local lagoons for a trip out on a boat. There are so many islands, so much scenery to explore, that it is best seen from the deck of a boat. You can join a local tour or hire a private boat for a romantic experience.

From waterfalls to thatched-roof bungalows over the water, your trip to Tahiti will be full of stimulation for the senses. Many travelers fulfill life dreams of learning to scuba dive, waking up in a floating hotel room over the water, and parasailing above the islands during a Tahiti vacation. From exploring sunken ships during scuba tours to getting cozy on the beach under some natural shade, your trip to Tahiti will completely redefine just how good a beach vacation should be.

Cancun

One of the top beach spots in all of Mexico is Cancun where amazing resorts line the beautiful beaches in a popular area known as the Hotel Zone. While Cancun is well touristed and sometimes crowded, it is this way for a reason. It is fantastic. Top beaches such as Playa Ballenas and Playa Chac Mool provide great places to sunbathe, snorkel, and enjoy other beach activities along some of the best North American beaches.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a gorgeous beach location on the Caribbean Sea. It is popular among tourists who tend to avoid the larger crowds in places like Acapulco and Cancun. Although there are still a sizable number of all-inclusive resorts, restaurants, and other tourist attractions, Playa del Carmen is not nearly as crowded as the above-mentioned cities, and also has a reputation for quality arts and crafts, as well as high-end shopping geared toward tourists and people on cruise excursions. You will enjoy white-sand beaches, plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and bars, as well as the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, ideal for diving and snorkeling. You can also charter a boat to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen.

Tulum

Tulum is one of the most distinctive beaches in Mexico, offering an idyllic, white-sand cove with shady palms, crystal-blue waters, and most impressively, the ancient Mayan ruins that tower over the beach. It is located approximately 80 miles south of Cancun. Although the entrance to Tulum is dominated by touristy retail shops and other such establishments, it is much more possible to find a quiet place for some relaxation in the sun than it is in places like Cancun and Acapulco. This is a great site for people who want to stay away from huge crowds, but also want to stay near plenty of hotels, restaurants, and resorts.

Los Cabos

There are locations for beaches on the Pacific, along Baja California and along the coast of the Mexican mainland. Los Cabos, Mexico, which comprises Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo is a burgeoning tourist destination at the tip of Baja California where luxury resorts and championship golf courses are being developed constantly. There are some truly majestic beaches in this area, including Playa Cemeterio and Playa Solmar. Both are within very easy driving distance of Los Cabos. Most people who travel to places like Cabo, Cancun, and Acapulco enjoy access to a private beach at their resort or hotel anyway. If you are staying at one of the nicer hotels or resorts in Cabo, you can be sure you will have access to amazing stretches of beach. Kayaking, diving, and boating are just a few of the popular pastimes on the best Mexican beaches on the Pacific Coast.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is located along the mainland Pacific coast and is a popular resort destination that features a variety of low-cost accommodations, tons of hotels, bars, and clubs. There also happen to be miles of breathtaking, white-sand beaches where you can enjoy amazing sun and warm waters.

Acapulco

Acapulco is one of the best known of all the mega-resort cities of the Mexican Pacific coast, but there are hundreds of miles of picturesque beaches between Puerto Vallarta (to the north) and Acapulco. These two destinations are major international tourist stops, while smaller places like Chamela and Barra Navidad provide exceptional flora and fauna, wonderful accommodations, and a more private experience. Mexico beaches offer something to suit everyone. If you are averse to visiting during the busiest season, you should consider visiting between November and May.

Thanks to Costa Rica’s unique geography, you’re never far from the coast—often only two or three hours separate an interior city from the best Costa Rica Beaches. The capital city, San Jose, is landlocked, but it’s a few hours away from beaches on the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Many vacationers fly into the airport in San Jose to begin their adventure, following the paved roads that lead from the capital to the best Costa Rican beaches.

Jaco Beach

Along with its neighbor Hermosa Beach, Jaco Beach is found along the central Pacific coast in the Puntarenas Province. This laid-back beach town with a party vibe, Jaco Beach has the distinction of being the closest beach to San Jose. As one of the best Costa Rican beaches for both parties and surfing, Jaco Beach offers fun by day and night. The waves and the breaks offer perfect conditions for catching a wave—challenging beginners and experts alike. Even though the waves are a bit high for swimming, there’s plenty else to like about this beach. The snorkeling opportunities are amazing beneath the surface; back on shore, you’ll find lots of fun along the beach and in the clubs.

Playa del Coco

On the northwest coast, up in the Guanacaste Province, Playa del Coco takes its name from chocolate-colored sand. During the week, Playa del Coco is a quiet little hideaway, one of the best Costa Rican Beaches for relaxing. The party gets going on the weekend when the locals and vacationers turn the volume up and bring the fun. Several resorts are located along the beach, including all-inclusive style resorts. All the amenities are included for one price, including fun along the beach. Many resort guests include surfing lessons or snorkeling excursions during their time at Playa del Coco.

Playa Conchal

This golden-sand beach, home to a grand resort, is located along the Gold Coast in the north of the Guanacaste Province. A rocky outcropping separates Playa Conchal from Playa Brasillito. Both offer wide stretches of sand bathed in sunlight. In the wintertime, Playa Conchal is blessed with more than twelve hours of sunlight a day. The clear waters make perfect conditions for snorkeling, and deep-sea diving is fantastic away from the shore. The all-inclusive resort overlooking the beach offers its guests a full range of activities and services to keep guests happy and relaxed. Its golf course, one of the best in all of Costa Rica, has emerald-green fairways and howler monkeys in the trees.

Playa Tambor

Also a resort hotspot, Playa Tambor is nestled on the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. This long, meandering beach features white sand, perfect for strolls, and crystal-clear waters prime for swimming and snorkeling. Back on shore, you’ll find a charming beach town, home of the only major airport on the peninsula. Many of Tambor’s resorts are located within steps on the beach.

Playa Hermosa

Like the Hermosa Beach next to Jaco Beach, this too is located along the Pacific Ocean. The Hermosa Beach in Guanacaste is a long stretch of gray sand, where you can go for a stroll or lounge in the sun. Watersports are especially popular here, and the resorts or local outfitters can equip you with everything needed to enjoy your fun in the sun.

Playa Ballena

Named for the whales often spotted off shore, Playa Ballena is one of the best Costa Rica beaches for watching wildlife. A part of the Ballena National Marine Park on the southern Pacific coast, this beach is home to sea turtles, iguanas, and howler monkeys in abundance. It’s also a wonderful beach perfect for long strolls and relaxing in the sun. When the conditions are just right, you’ll have the chance to stroll on over to Punta Uvita, a natural wonder made out of reef and rocks, that looks like the tail of a whale.

Puerto Viejo

As one of the best Costa Rican beaches on the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo is located in the Limon Province. A blend of cultures, this beach town has some fantastic music and cuisine to enjoy on shore. The beach, surrounded by towering palm trees swaying in the breeze, is the launching point for surfing adventures, deep-sea charters, and other fun.

There are a few things to know about Baker Beach San Francisco when planning a visit. Part of the beach, on the northernmost end, is considered a clothing-optional beach. Especially on the weekends, this section of the beach is frequented by nude bathers. There is a sign warning you that you are entering this part of the beach. If you’re planning a trip to Baker Beach with a family, you might want to stick to other parts of the beach for your picnic. Depending on the season, the weather, and the day of the week, you might find a large number or a small number of nude sunbathers.

Located at the bottom of rugged cliffs, Baker Beach San Francisco is best known for its incredible views. Don’t be surprised to see a bride and groom on the beach taking their wedding photos—this beach is that scenic. On sunny weekends, even though the beach is one mile long, it can get quite crowded. To avoid problems with parking, arrive early or plan your visit during the week when you can enjoy the quiet atmosphere a little more. If you want to combine some exercise with your sunbathing, Baker Beach is also a spot to pick up a hiking trail called the Coastal Trail. Many hiking enthusiasts finish their trek on this beach for a scenic picnic.

If you are planning a picnic here, you will find many amenities once you arrive. The picnic areas offers not only picnic tables, but grills too. San Francisco locals take full advantage of these facilities and often create impressive meals, along with basic barbecues. For those visitors who love a beach that offers restrooms, you will find them at the east end of the parking lot. While picnics are very popular here, visitors should exercise caution when it comes to swimming. The surf is known to be dangerous and powerful, so be sure to stay closer to shore than you might otherwise.

Locals never arrive too early at Baker Beach San Francisco because the mornings can sometimes be foggy. If you’re looking to explore another beach option in Northern California, be sure to check out Glass Beach. This beach got its name from the incredible amount of seaglass you can find on the shores. Another great spot for sunbathing in Northern California is Point Reyes National Seashore. Beyond soaking up the sun, here you can also go hiking and maybe even catch a glimpse of migrating whales off the shore. To continue your exploration of the coast, head south to Central California or give surfing a try at the beaches of Southern California.