Photo: Hisham Ibrahim/Corbis

South Beach

Miami Beach, Florida

This part of the Sunshine State is known for glitz and glamour, but the golden sands of South Beach have a carefree, friendly spirit. Striped towels cover the beach recliners outside Sagamore Art Hotel (rates start at $265; sagamorehotel.com), where it's fun to cool off in the lobby while admiring unique sculptures. Down the street, dig your toes in the sand and sink your teeth into fresh Corvina fish tacos at Lucy's Cantina Royale.

Hotel Recommendation: Stay at the newly renovated Surfcomber Hotel. Read our review.