Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

Most U.S. beaches can't hold a flame to the aquamarine waters and soft sands of the Gulf Coast. And, with summer (never mind water) temps in the 80s, the southern shore of Alabama is also a bona fide tropical vacation destination. Recline on fluffy white beaches with a rum punch, go deep-sea fishing, hit the waves in a speedboat, and pick up an airbrushed T-shirt to remember it all when you go. Catch some sun by your own private pool when you rent a house from Kiva Dunes Resort and Golf.