Pawleys Island, South CarolinaIf your ideal vacation involves bare feet, hammocks, crab traps and a lack of pretense, come to Pawleys Island, whose motto "arrogantly shabby" sums up its laid back way of life. Don't let the casual attitude fool you: the beaches here are spectacular, as are the many varieties of flowers, plants and birds.

It enjoys a well-earned reputation as a premier boating and sailing destination

Standing at the water's edge

But Chincoteague

Bethany Beach today is known as one of Delaware's "Quiet Resorts" due to its serenity and beauty

the "Queen of the Missions

while rising stars perform at the Dewey Beach Music Conference each September

conquistadors and Calusa Indians

Milton is known as "small-town America at its best

sun and hundreds of attractions characterize San Diego

watersports adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts of all stripes

Bald Head Island is located across Cape Fear River

and vacationers seeking an idyllic haven