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My Favorite Beaches (And A Few I Haven't Made It To Yet)
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items I'm a beach girl. I love to collect sand from beaches around the world. There's something about the ocean that heals my soul and keeps calling me back even though I'm totally landlocked 99% of the time. Here are some of my favorite beaches (and islan...
Sections
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Prince Edward Island
30A Beaches
Aruba
Castaway Cay
Acadia National Park/Bar Harbor
Mackinac Island
Prince Edward Island
Visiting PEI was a dream of mine since I was a little girl, and it definitely didn't disappoint. It's actually been several years since my husband and I visited, and I can't wait to get back to this wonderful (and smallest) Canadian province.
It's hard to pick a single beach, or even a single area, in Prince Edward Island as my fav. I was actually watching the movie Anne of Green Gables one time when my husband walked through the room and said, “Where IS that?” I told him about PEI (altho...
Prince Edward Island - Beaches along Green Gables Shore
If you only have a short time in PEI (like if it's a port of call on your cruise), this tour crams a lot of iconic Prince Edward Island spots into a fun-filled, jam-packed day.
Amazing PEI Experience
It's not a trip to PEI without a lobster supper (or three). My hubby and I went to this one and had a blast (and a LOT of food).
New Glasgow Lobster Suppers
Great link to places to stay with reviews.
Prince Edward Island National Park - Trip.com
I love a good lobster roll, and Richard's has a delicious one, along with a non-fussy menu and atmosphere that's perfect for a quick meal.
Richard's Fresh Seafood | Best Seafood Restaurant in PEI
Cruising is one of my favorite ways to travel. It keeps things simple, easy, and fun, and you can focus on enjoying the sights and experiences of your destination. Some cruise lines have multi-day stops at Prince Edward Island, which is definitely en...
Touring the Maritime Provinces by Cruise
PEI is one of those places that if you've been there, you *know.* Both my husband and I love it and all the special landmarks of the island that make it unique so much.
Prince Edward Island Landmark Print
I love this postmodern Charlottetown, PEI print.
Charlottetown Print | Travel Ornament | Anne of Green Gables | Anne with an E
It's not a trip to Prince Edward Island without a visit to Green Gables and a celebration of all things Anne with an E.
Anne with an E Sweatshirt Anne of Green Gables Sweatshirt Avonlea Sweatshirt Light Academia Bookish Book Lover Gifts Books Sweatshirt - Anne of Green Gables Shirt
Green Gables is a must visit in Cavendish, PEI.
Green Gables Heritage Place
Yummy seafood dinner out on the water? Table for two, please!
2 Hour Dinner Cruise in North America by Solar Boat
30A Beaches
Beach please! I love the sugar white sandy stretch of beaches along Highway 30A on Florida's Emerald Coast (so named because of the gorgeous, clear turquoise waters). It's such a beautiful, laidback, family-friendly area, and I've enjoyed exploring s...
I love all the sugary white sand beaches along Highway 30A on the Emerald Coast of Florida's panhandle. Santa Rosa may be my favorite, though. It's family-friendly, not overly crowded, and a great place for a family reunion. (We have visited many tim...
Santa Rosa Beach (30A), Florida
Even if we don't stay in Seaside, we always make sure to visit their adorable square and walk through their quaint neighborhoods. You may actually be more familiar with Seaside than you realize, even if you've never visited. The Truman Show was taped...
Seaside
It's not a trip to the 30A without a stop at Sundog Books in Seaside.
Sundog Books
Love, love, love this sweet watercolor map of the 30A shore. There's a reason this stretch draws so many people back year after year.
Seaside Florida Map | Watercolor Art Print | Beach Art | South Walton | 30A Florida | Scenic 30A | Beach House Decor | Wall Art
It's not a trip to the 30A without a stop at Bud & Alley's. They have a great, diverse menu, and of course fresh seafood!
Bud & Alley’s Restaurants
With multiple locations along Highway 30A, Goatfeathers is our go-to to pick up to-go steamed shrimp. (Ha! See what I did there?) You can choose size, steamed or not, seasoned or not. It makes meals a breeze during our stay.
Goatfeathers Seafood Markets
These sweet watercolor printed dish towels are almost too pretty to use, but they sure do make a great reminder of your trip to the 30A Beach stretch.
30A Florida Tea Towel - Watercolor - Seacrest - Seaside - Santa Rosa Beach - Seagrove - Rosemary Beach - Alys Beach - Carillon - Grayton Beach - Dune Allen
Bring a bit of Seaside on 30A home with you with this sweet little print of the cutest post office in existence.
Seaside post office best selling 30-A beach art print, Florida beach house watercolor painting, South Walton County beach art print
For those who'd rather have a mug than a wall print, I also love this sweet watercolor drawing of Seaside, Florida, on a mug.
Seaside Florida Map 11oz Coffee Mug | Seaside Watercolor Artwork | 30a Gift | Beach House Kitchen Decor
Love the subtle shades of blue and green in this shirt that match the stunning blue-green, turquoise waters of the Florida Emerald Coast.
30A Beaches Sweatshirt, Seaside FL Crewneck Pullover, Emerald Coast Florida Sweater, 30A Souvenir Beach Gift, Grayton, Alys Beach Sweatshirt
These soft-sided coolers are perfect for the easy, breezy feel of the 30A. Easily packable for a day at the beach or a picnic anywhere around Seaside, Watercolor, or the area.
St. Tropez Premium Cooler | Pottery BarnDropdownDropdownDropdownPottery BarnsearchPottery BarnsearchDropdownDropdownDropdownDropdownDropdownDropdownArrow UpArrow DownArrow LeftArrow RightInstagramFacebookPinterestYouTube
Love this breezy canvas 30A beaches tote bag--perfect for groceries or loading up with summer beach reads.
30A Florida Tote Bag, Rosemary, Beach Tote Bag, Bachelorette Beach Bag, 30A Florida, Beach Vacation Shirt, Bachelorette Tote, 30A Vacation
Aruba
My husband and I went to Aruba on our honeymoon, and I count down the days until we can go back. Such a lovely, welcoming island.
My hubby and I stayed at the Renaissance Wind Creek Resort on our honeymoon and spent every day lounging on Flamingo Beach on their private island. To call it amazing is an understatement. It was pure magic.
Renaissance Island, Aruba
The best breakfast spot. Poffertjes are these little Dutch pancakes that are like a cross between a mini pancake and funnel cakes. Healthy? No. Delicious and addictive? YES.
The Dutch Pancakehouse
SO much fun. Snorkeling through beautiful coral reefs, water slides, banana boats, swimming. We also added snuba to our package so we could dive deeper into the reef and really explore.
De Palm Island
A local recommended this seafood restaurant, and it was one of the highlights of our trip. We dined on some of the best food I've ever had, with my barefoot toes curled into the sand and waves, with the most memorable, amazing ambience I've every exp...
Flying Fishbone Restaurant, Aruba
There are gorgeous, picturesque areas of Aruba you can't reach without roughing it a bit. This Jeep tour gets you to some spectacular locations!
Island Ultimate Jeep Safari in Aruba
Whether you like to snorkel, scuba, or go the milder route of a mini-submarine or glass-bottom boat, the shipwrecks around Aruba was a bummer for sailors long ago but make for amazing underwater sea life and coral reefs today.
Tickets & Tours - Antilla Shipwreck, Aruba
Castaway Cay
Disney Cruise Line's private island, Castaway Cay is a complete blast. If you have the opportunity to visit, be sure to make the most of your day there.
My family and I have been on two Disney Cruises, both of which included a day on Castaway Cay, their private island. In short, we had an absolute blast both times. There's so much to do, see, explore, and enjoy.
Disney Castaway Cay | Ports of Call | Disney Cruise Line
While I've enjoyed every cruise I've ever been on, Disney spoiled me a bit for all others. They pay attention to every detail and make every guest feel special and treasured.
Disney Cruise Line
Yeah, yeah, yeah. I know that this is technically cheating. It's a landlocked water park, but you can do a really fun cruise & park combo and have the best of all worlds when it comes to a Disney Cruise.
Typhoon Lagoon Water Park
Make your stateroom easier to find (and come home with a cool keepsake) with this custom Disney Cruise Line cabin door magnet.
Personalized All Characters Disney Cruise Line 2024 Magnet, Mickey and Friends Toy Story Stitch Star wars magnets Cruise Ship Stateroom Door
Carry your stuff out to Castaway Cay and back in style with this custom embroidered Disney Cruise tote bag.
OVERSIZED Disney Cruise Inspired Boat Tote/Magical Vacation Bag/Zippered Beach Tote/Vacation Bag/Disney Family Cruise Inspired Tote Bag
It doesn't get much cuter than the whole family in these matching, custom Disney Cruise t-shirts to commemorate your awesome vacation and visit to Castaway Cay!
Custom Disney Cruise Family Vacation 2024 Shirt, Disney Cruise Group Shirt, Disney Shirt, Disney Pirate Shirt, Family Matching Cruise Shirt
Disney Cruises have a pirate night, which is so much fun! These family shirts are a great way to both celebrate it and have a cute picture and souvenir to boot.
Custom Disney Pirates Family Shirts, Disney Pirates of Caribbean Tee, Disney Birthday Girl Boy Shirt, Mickey Minnie Disney Cruise 2024 Shirt
Acadia National Park/Bar Harbor
Coastal Maine has such a unique charm, especially in the summer and fall.
Acadia (and Maine in general) is such a unique, pristine, scenic area to explore. Summer is a fun time to visit, and fall, with the changing leaves is just stunning.
Full Day Small Group Tour of Acadia National Park
A top-rated, affordable hotel right in the middle of everything
HIGHBROOK MOTEL (Bar Harbor, ME)
Don't pretend like you're going to go all the way to Maine and not stuff your face full of lobster.
THE TRAVELIN LOBSTER, Bar Harbor - Menu, Prices & Restaurant Reviews - Tripadvisor
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Put your art where your heart is. I love this customizable rustic Maine map art.
Rustic Maine Map/ME Map/Wood Maine Map/Reclaimed Wood Map/Personalized Map/Housewarming Gift/Coastal Decor/Gift for Him/5th Anniversary
I've seen many different tracking map systems to track which National Parks you've been to, but this is one of the nicest and most heirloom quality that I've seen. Would make such a great birthday or anniversary gift for anyone who loves to travel to...
National Park Travel Map, National Parks Marker, US Travel Map, family road trip tracker, travel home decor, gift for hiker, national parks - Acadia National Park puzzle map
Goodr sunglasses are the best! I love, love, love these Acadia National Park themed pair, and you can buy a bunch of other fun styles, too.
National Park Foundation | goodr sunglasses
Mackinac Island
Ever since seeing the Christopher Reeves and Jane Seymour movie “Somewhere in Time," my husband and I wanted to visit Mackinac Island, the quaint, picturesque location of its filming. There are no cars allowed on the island, but plenty of bike rental...
It doesn't get much more quaint than Mackinac Island in Michigan. There are no cars on the island, and everything has a turn of the century (twentieth century, that is) feel to it. Our stay was absolutely charming.
Mackinac.com (Mackinaw) · Hotels · Ferry · Events · Shopping
This waterfront resort is the definition of relaxation. With a sloping green lawn sprinkled with ample Adirondack chairs, that leads up to the lapping waters of Lake Huron, it's the perfect summer escape from the hustle bustle. This resort is actuall...
Mission Point Resort
If you truly want to feel like you've taken a leap back in time, you have to stay at the Grand Hotel (or at least visit). While the cast and crew stayed at Mission Point while filming Somewhere in Time, this is where the majority of the movie was fil...
Welcome to Grand Hotel | Mackinac Island, Michigan
Show Mackinac Island some love even when you're back home and chilling. And speaking of chilling, it can get a little cool in the evenings in Northern Michigan, even in the summer, so pack some sweatshirts or a light jacket.
Mackinac Island Crewneck Sweatshirt Gift, Lake Michigan Pullover, Comfort Colors
I love the intricacy of this beautiful wooden lantern featuring the Mackinac Bridge that connects the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan.
Mackinac Bridge Michigan Wood Statement Lantern, Unique lantern made with solid Maple or Cherry Wood, Professionally finished electric lamp
This gorgeous watercolor print of the beautiful views from Mackinac Island brings it right into you living room.
Mackinac Island Wall Art, Mackinac MI Print, Lake Huron Watercolor, Mackinac Island Gift, Travel Print, Travel Poster, Housewarming Gift
O'ahu
There are a lot of beaches in O'ahu, so it's cheating to count it as one beach, but it was such a beautiful, welcoming island when I visited that I wanted to highlight and share as many recommendations as I could from across the whole island.
O'ahu is a beautiful island, period, and Aulani is a gorgeous gem within it. Traveling with kids, staying on Disney property is always a sure bet. They always go above and beyond.
Aulani Hawaii Resort
While entrance to the Pearl Harbor memorial is free to the public, reservations are required (and go quickly--seriously, book now). By taking a private tour, you get a more in-depth experience and get to hear personal histories and stories that you w...
Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial
If you've ever had a Dole Whip at Disney World…well, if you know, you know. And you need to come try the original at the Dole Plantation. There's a fun tram ride around the plantation that's fun and educational (and scenic!) and a beautiful botanical...
Pineapple Plantation - Best Attractions in Oahu - Dole Plantation
This little poke shop might just be the best deal on the island, and it alone is worth the drive to the North Shore. And, I mean, the spectacular views aren't shabby either.
Poke for the People
Beautiful public beach. Family-friendly, and nice calm waters.
Lanikai Beach
This lovely watercolor O'ahu Hawaii art print makes a nice keepsake.
Oahu Map Art Print | Hawaii Art Travel Poster
It's not a trip to Hawaii without a visit to a tiki bar. This one is so much fun with great tropical cocktails and a relaxed vibe.
Cuckoo Coconuts Waikiki - Tiki Bar
Snorkeling paradise, but be sure to make reservations because they limit the number of visitors to protect the wildlife and bay.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
CocoCay
Also known as Little Stirrup Cay, CocoCay is the privately operated island of Royal Carribean, located in the Bahamas. Whether you like wild water adventures or just lounging on the beach or by the huuuuuuuge pool, it's an absolute paradise and so mu...
I've been on several Royal Caribbean cruises, and I've absolutely loved every single one and had amazing experiences. Great food, an incredible array of activities to choose from, and of course their “Perfect Day on CocoCay” where you can relax and p...
Royal Caribbean Cruises
Can't wait to dig my feet into the sand in CocoCay for the holidays!
Royal Caribbean International
Big Sur
There's something magical about Big Sur in California, about the water flowing from the rocks, the steep, jutting cliffs, the crashing waves. It's a beautiful area where many have found inspiration.
There's something magical about the lush forest coming up to the roaring ocean, and this lodge captures the best of both. It's perfect for couples or anyone who wants to just go soak in nature.
GLEN OAKS BIG SUR - Updated 2024 Resort Reviews (CA)
Road conditions can sometimes make Big Sur inaccessible. If you can't reach it, you can at least go there in spirit with these yummy, woodsy smelling scented candles.
California Coastline Candle Bundle: Big Sur & Pacific Ocean (2-set Natural Wax Candles)
Just up the road from Big Sur, Monterey and the Monterey Bay Aquarium are a must visit if you love the sea and sea animals.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Watercolor captures the incredible beauty of Big Sur in such a natural way, and in a way that few other mediums can.
Big Sur Wall Art, Big Sur California Print, Big Sur Watercolor, Big Sur Gift, Travel Print, Travel Poster, Housewarming Gift
Truly, Big Sur is one of the most gorgeous places on Earth. Put it on your bucket list if you haven't already.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Florida Keys
Driving down the Overseas Highway of the Florida Keys is one of the most unique road trips you'll ever experience, literally hopping bridge by bridge over the interconnected islands and cays. You end up in Key West, which has a marvelous, laidback vi...
Unbelievable snorkeling at this beautiful Florida state park.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Stay in luxurious style at this amazing, adults-only, all-suites hotel in Key West.
H2O SUITES HOTEL - Updated 2024 Prices & Reviews (Key West, FL)
One of the less crowded of the Keys, Big Pine Key has a great family-friendly state park where you can camp.
BAHIA HONDA STATE PARK CAMPGROUNDS - Campground Reviews (Big Pine Key, Florida Keys)
With old school charm and modern amenities, this family-friendly hotel is a perfect beach getaway.
GRASSY FLATS RESORT & BEACH CLUB - Updated 2024 Prices & Hotel Reviews (Marathon, FL)
It's not a trip to Key West without a stop at the famous Hemingway home and museum. Learn about the author, stroll the beautiful grounds, and meet some six-toed cats.
The Hemingway Home & Museum
Love this sweet watercolor notecard of Key West!
Watercolor Key West, Florida Map Card -- Single Card, Set of 4, and Luxury Box Set of 10
If you're going to go to Key West, plan for time out on the water. This snorkeling and kayaking sailing excursion is top-ranked and so affordable for all that's included.
2024 Key West Full-Day Ocean Adventure: Kayak, Snorkel, Sail
One of the most unique National Parks in the U.S., Dry Tortugas is only accessible via boat or ferry, but definitely worth the visit!
Dry Tortugas National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
Bermuda
The unique pink sands of Bermuda are unlike anything else I've seen. It's caused by a marine organism called foraminifera (just FYI). It's an easy flight from the U.S. East Coast, and a laidback, welcoming island.
Luxurious with Bermudian charm
THE LOREN AT PINK BEACH - Updated 2024 Prices & Hotel Reviews (Bermuda)
The Royal Naval Dockyard is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in the history of Bermuda. You can also shop from a number of local artisans and vendors.
About Dockyard | Royal Naval Dockyard
This personalized oyster shell map would make such a lovely memento gift for a special trip like a wedding or anniversary getaway.
Custom Oyster Shell NOAA Chart Map, Favorite Port Harbor or Coastal Location, Wedding Anniversary Engagement, Hostess Gift, Ornament Option
The waters around Bermuda are an almost unreal turquoise blue. What better way to see the sights than by catamaran?
Private Catamaran Swim sail snorkel cliff jumping SUP
The Best Beach Gear
Sand in your shoes, sunshine in your heart. Here are some items to make your beach vacation even brighter and sunnier.
My crew and I burn just thinking about being out in the sun. We got this easy pop-up tent for our last beach trip, and it worked great! Blocked out the harsh afternoon rays but with plenty of airy ventilation.
WhiteFang Deluxe XL Pop Up Beach Tent Sun Shade
This is the BEST sunscreen. Once I discovered it through my dermatologist, it's the only one I'll use. It's non-oily, and it's so light, it truly feels like absolutely nothing on my skin.
Biore UV Aqua Rich Dermatologist Tested, Vegan & Cruelty Free Moisturizing Face Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin - SPF 30 - 5.1 fl oz/3pk
I've had this Land's End tote bag (the XL version) for almost 20 years, and it is so durable and versatile. Highly recommend.
Medium Natural 5 Pocket Open Top Canvas Tote Bag
My mother-in-law travels a LOT, and she finally got curious and asked her pilot one trip what luggage they used. They answered, “TravelPro” without skipping a beat. Super lightweight but also sturdy, steers like a dream, and not too expensive. I've b...
Maxlite® 5 Floating On Air Luggage Set
Okay, so full disclosure, I'm an author, and Georgia Kains is my pen name, but if you love beaches and murder mysteries, I think you might like my mystery set on a cruise ship, Death In A Deck Chair <3
Death In A Deck Chair - Cruise Cozy Mystery - Available now at your favorite digital store!
Having a sturdy, permanent luggage tag is not only easy and convenient--(Who else hates filling out those flimsy little bag tags at the airline counter?)--it's a way to keep your bags more secure and make sure they get to the right place at the right...
Large Metal Luggage Tag, Personalized Engraved Aluminum Tag - Travel Gift, Bag ID, Custom Images, Logos, Suitcase tag, Backpack tag
I collect sand from beaches that I've visited, and I love what a special memento this would make as a Christmas tree ornament or as a drawer pull
Beach keepsake, sand jar, Beach wedding favor, Family vacation ornament, newlywed gift, ocean, honeymoon, custom, personalized, engagement
Whether you have a beach house or just want to escape to the beach in your mind, I love this fun, colorful Stitchrovia by Emma Congdon beach cross stitch pattern.
The Beach - Cross Stitch Pattern (Digital Format - PDF)
Carry the beach with you on your wrist. I love these whimsical, charm-filled watches that are reminiscent of Van Cleef & Arpels (without, y'know, having to sell a kidney to afford one).
Seahorse Watch with Starfish Abalone Sand Dollar and Apple Blossom Shell, sea, beach, water, gift, birthday, Christmas
I love beach glass--the way that the ocean can turn even someone's thrown-away bottle into a beautiful treasure over time. These pendants are both beautiful and a classic way to carry a bit of the beach around with you wherever you go.
Sea Glass Pendant Necklace Petite Sterling Silver Pendant Beach Glass Jewelry Ocean Necklace for Mermaids Birthday Gift Valentines Day Gift
These beautiful, simple beachy boho beaded bracelets are like tying a little bit of the beach around your wrist wherever you go.
5 Beach Bracelets, Boho Bracelets, Sea Glass Bracelets, Beachy Bracelet, Coastal Style Gifts, Seashell Bracelets, Gifts For Mom, Beach Jewelry
I love this rustic wood display for sand jars.
Use a Wall Wood Spice Rack to Display Your Sand Collection!
You can easily fill these cute glass jars with your trip sand thanks to the handy little funnel.
Eddings Glass Jars for Beach Sand
These super soft Turkish beach towels can be personalized and shake sand off so easily.
Ultra Soft Turkish Beach Towel - Bridesmaid Gifts - Bachelorette Party Towel - Beach Blanket - Pool Towel - Personalized Gift