Articles

As the summer season starts, finding the perfect beach for sunbathing and splashing in the surf becomes a national pastime, even obsession. But what happens off the sand is just as important. While we all hope that the sun will shine every day of our vacation, it's good to know there are options if the skies open up. These ten towns are classic Americana and are packed with museums, shops, and other rainy-day diversions, plus lots of fun festivals and outdoor activities if you want to do something more active then turning the pages of the latest chick-lit release (did someone say mini-golf?).

It's time to start booking those summer vacations! Those searching for a sun-and-sand escape will find plenty of options, but what if you want a little something extra? From free hula lessons in Maui to swimming with dolphins in the Florida Keys, we picked out the best anything-but-cookie-cutter beach hotels that dish out special treats at a low price. These hotels not only offer extraordinary experiences you won't find elsewhere, but do it all for less than $200 a night.