Beach Getaways: Summer Fun in the Sun - 2

Florida

Sanibel and Captiva Islands (multiple beaches)

Sugar sand, some of the best shelling in the world and as close to a tropical paradise as you’ll find in the contiguous 48 states. Okay, maybe that last sentiment is a tad presumptuous, but the beaches of Sanibel and Captiva are unquestionably special. Located on the Gulf of Mexico side of Florida, near the southern tip of the state west of Fort Myers, the islands’ Gulf side beaches are a natural repository for shells scooped up from the Caribbean Sea by Gulf currents. In addition to terrific shelling, there is great birding on the islands. Sanibel is the larger of the two islands and offers the most accommodations options, however during a visit last year, a TravelMuse staff member stayed at the South Seas Island Resort, which had recently reopened after being severely damaged by Hurricane Charley in 2004. The resort looks like new, with pristine, manicured beaches, new swimming pools, revamped restaurants and a variety of accommodation options. The villas or cottages, for the kitchens amenities, washers and dryers, and screened in porches are great for families.

Michigan

Warren Dunes State Park, Sawyer

Great beach with towering dunes. If you go early in the summer, late May through mid-June, the water will be chilly, but the 2-1/2 miles of shoreline won’t be crowded. Rent a rustic campsite for the weekend ($12 per night, plus $8 reservation fee). The 36 sites go quickly, though, so make reservations early. In addition to lounging on the beach and playing in the sand with the kids, there are six miles of hiking trails available. And then there are the dunes. Comprised mostly of quartz, one dune reaches 260 feet above the lake. Climbing them is a workout, but the view from the top, looking out across the lake, is worth it. A state park motor vehicle pass is required; a daily pass is $6 for Michigan residents, $8 for nonresidents. www.michigandnr.com

• Shells cover the beaches on Sanibel and Captiva Islands off the southeast coast of Florida.
• nikoretro

Southern California

Coronado Beach, San Diego

Coronado Beach, on a peninsula just south of bustling downtown San Diego, evokes another era. The gracious, historic Hotel del Coronado dominates the skyline, and small-town charm is evident in the warmth of genuinely friendly locals. The waves are gentle—perfect for swimmers or novice surfers—and the long expanse of sand is among the widest beaches in Southern California.

• A busy but beautiful day in Laguna Beach.
• Chris Eason

Laguna Beach, Orange County

There are plenty of things to do for all ages in Laguna Beach—food, art galleries, a Sawdust Festival and an old-fashioned boardwalk. Plus it has one of the best hotels/spas around: Montage—which is family friendly and offers full amenities, including babysitting. Food in town ranges from casual flip flop restaurants to upscale. Favorite chocolate shop, Rocky Mountain, is right on the main street.The beach itself it great for tidepooling and the local lifeguards provide information on tidepools and ocean ecology. Resort pools provide safer swimming options, but the beach can be enjoyed for games and walks on the beautiful sand.