Why Go: The Tampa region is best known for its pristine beaches, but also offers a number of art and

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Why Go: The coastal town often goes unnoticed by travelers but passing up the city would be a mistake. Jacksonville offers a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, charming historic neighborhoods, and activities for all ages and interests. Visit Neptune Beach for a variety of watersports and easy access to the city s best shopping and restaurants. vacation rentals ocean city nj Animal lovers will enjoy Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens , which features an award-winning wild cat exhibit. Take a break from the beach at Jacksonville Landing , a riverfront market with full-service restaurants and specialty shops.
Where to Stay: The winter season is busy in Jacksonville, so book a room well in advance. Ponte Vedra Inn and Club features ocean views, attentive service, and a full-service spa that attracts a celebrity clientele.
Why Go: The Tampa region is best known for its pristine beaches, but also offers a number of art and cultural attractions. Stop by the Dal Museum for free, guided tours of the famous painter s artwork. Pass-A-Grille Beach exudes Old Florida charm and features an open-air market with handicrafts from local artisans. For a taste of authentic Cuban culture visit Ybor City , Tampa s colorful Latin Quarter boasts trendy boutiques, hip art galleries, and a variety of restaurants and nightclubs.
Where to Stay: Tampa Bay hotels reflect the region s rich history. From Spanish-style villas to early 20th century resorts, hotel guests will feel as if they ve stepped vacation rentals ocean city nj back in time. Cottages at the Turtle Beach Resort date back to the 1940s and offer peaceful accommodations with bayside views.
Why Go: Miami s trendy beaches, hip design districts, and vibrant nightlife scene draws an international crowd. The city is best known for South Beach , a 10-block stretch of sand packed with sunbathers and fashionistas. vacation rentals ocean city nj But visitors can also find other attractions to fit their interests. Fairchild Tropical Botanic vacation rentals ocean city nj Garden vacation rentals ocean city nj offers a tram tour of exotic plants and features a 2-acre rainforest exhibit with a waterfall and stream. Don t leave the city without experiencing its nightlife firsthand. LIV Nightclub is the perfect place to dance the night away.
Insider Tip: To get past the velvet ropes at Miami s most exclusive nightclubs, use the hotel concierge. The concierge vacation rentals ocean city nj can call in your name ahead of time so you ll be on the guest list when you arrive.
Where to Stay: The city s downtown area features more contemporary properties, although vacation rentals ocean city nj most visitors opt to stay near the beach. W South Beach features ocean-view balconies in each room, designer furnishings, and a lively pool scene.
Why Go: Providence and Paradise Island offer a bit of heaven on earth. The islands high-end shopping, never-ending nightlife, and beautiful beaches are perfect for travelers looking to relax and unwind. At Cabbage Beach , visitors can jet ski or parasail over sparkling blue waters. Housed in a 19th-century mansion, Nassau s National Art Gallery of the Bahamas features the works of renowned vacation rentals ocean city nj Bahamian artists. Club Waterloo , Nassau s largest self-proclaimed vacation rentals ocean city nj indoor-outdoor nightclub, offers nonstop dancing during the week and live bands on the weekends.
Why Go: Canc n s popular beaches, world-class spas, and historic ruins make it an ideal destination for travelers. The city is home to a number of large resorts, which stretch along its pristine coastline. Many visitors find lounging on powdery white sand beaches entertainment in and of itself but travelers can also go off the beaten path and explore the city s cultural attractions. Explore artificial reefs and colorful marine life at Canc n Underwater Museum . For up-close looks at Mayan ruins, stop by Ruinas El Rey . The archaeological site features remains vacation rentals ocean city nj dating back to the 2nd century BC and pyramids with stucco paintings.
Where to Stay: Zona Hotelera the city s hotel corridor offers upscale amenities, while Canc n s city center offers more modest accommodations. Le Blanc Spa Resort on Zona Hotelera offers a renowned spa, in-room Jacuzzis, and refined, minimalist d cor.
Why Go: In Jamaica, vacationing is a way of life. The island was the birthplace of Caribbean vacation rentals ocean city nj all-inclusive resorts and makes the most of its stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and warm, friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy seven miles of powdery white sand at Negril Beach . Explore mountain waterfalls at Dunn s River Falls , where experienced guides lead climbing expeditions. At Rose Hall , visitors can take a tour of a haunted property and have a drink in the house s cellar pub.
Insider Tip: Stop by Montego Bay the last Thursday, Friday, and Saturday of January for Jamaica Jazz Blues festival . The event attracts world-renowned vacation rentals ocean city nj musicians and features headliners like Celine vacation rentals ocean city nj Dion and Kenny Rogers.
Where to Stay: Most resorts in Jamaica are all-inclusive, although the island also offers private villas in exclusive bays. At Round Hill Hotel and Villas , rooms come equipped with personal maids and cooks and guests can enjoy extensive spa services.
Why Go: Travelers flock to Punta Cana for its sparkling, crystal-clear waters and sugary-white sand beaches. For untouched stretches of sand with shady coconut palms, visit Playa Punta Cana . The beach s calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Explore the island on horseback at Rancho Punta Cana : where you can choose from a two-hour jungle vacation rentals ocean city nj trail ride or a full-moon excursion. Swim with the dolphins at Dolphin Island Park in B varo. The park is a short boat ride away from the beach and features vacation rentals ocean city nj instruction, a dolphin show, and a 25-minute swim in protected waters.
Where to Stay: Punta Cana is one of the best places in the Caribbean to find all-inclusive resorts. Club Med Punta Cana leaves no stone unturned. The all-inclusive property features family activities, a deluxe spa, and a colorful beach bar.
Why Go: San Juan s rich history is present around every corner. Visitors can explore cobblestone streets, natural harbors, and settlements dating back to the 16th century. Guests can wander vacation rentals ocean city nj through a 16th century fortress at Castillo San Felipe del Morro , or El Morro. The military site features displays of ancient armaments and dark secret passageways. Families will love Balneario de Carolina , a beach with calm surf and plenty vacation rentals ocean city nj of room for picnicking. Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico , one of the largest museums in the Caribbean, boasts colonial-era vacation rentals ocean city nj art and lush tropical gardens.
Insider Tip: Even though Old San Juan receives the most attention, consider visiting Condado . The lively pedestrian neighborhood is located just outside the city and offers a variety of dining and shopping venues.
Where to Stay: Accommodations in San Juan range from large, beachfront resorts to smaller, colonial inns. El San Juan Hotel Casino features poolside cabanas, a two-level nightclub and large guestrooms with modern furnishings.
Why Go: Most travelers who visit the Virgin Islands touchdown in St. Thomas and stay for its duty-free shopping, ideal fishing waters, and beautiful beaches. Suntan, lounge, vacation rentals ocean city nj and swim on the heart-shaped stretch of sand at Magens Bay . The family-friendly beach offers sunfish and paddleboat rentals and a variety vacation rentals ocean city nj of bars and snack shacks. Parasail above St. Thomas s clear waters on a boat trip. Shop at upscale boutiques vacation rentals ocean city nj on Charlotte Amalie s Main Street, or browse crafts and jewelry from local artisans.
Where to Stay: Most hotels are located in Charlotte Amalie, although visitors can find more secluded villas on the island s north side. The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas is a traveler s dream. The resort offers vacation rentals ocean city nj luxurious rooms, ocean views, and family-friendly beachfront amenities.
Why Go: For a taste of British culture far away from the Isles, visit Barbados. Afternoon tea and dressing for dinner are standard, and guests can enjoy sophisticated cities and lively coastal beaches. Bottom Bay Beach , a secluded coastal enclave, features picturesque coral cliffs and unmatched ocean views. Browse more than 100 species of tropical vacation rentals ocean city nj flora at Flower Forest , a 53- acre property with walking trails and lookout points. Nature lovers will enjoy Andromeda Botanic Gardens , which features more than 600 rare plant specimens and ocean views.
Insider Tip: If you re visiting the island in February, stop by the Holetown vacation rentals ocean city nj Festival . The weeklong vacation rentals ocean city nj event commemorates the date when the first European settlers arrived in Barbados and includes colorful parades, music, and dancing.
Where to Stay: The island offers a range of accommodations, from large, beachfront resorts on the west coast to smaller properties in the south. For peaceful surroundings and elegant suites, book a room at Cobblers Cove . The English vacation rentals ocean city nj Country-style resort features penthouse suites with private sundecks and a highly-rated alfresco restaurant.