Miami, Florida
Located near the southern tip of Florida, Miami is known for its tropical beaches, Art Deco architecture, and its Latin American and Caribbean-inspired culture. Miami Beach stretches for 9 miles and is divided into three distinct neighborhoods. The famed South Beach, or SoBe, is known for nightlife that extends into the morning hours, set against an iconic Art Deco backdrop. Stroll down Lincoln Road for independent boutiques, popular stores, and restaurants with a view. North Beach offers a calmer reprieve from its lively neighbors. It’s more residential, and the beaches are noticeably less crowded. Just as the name implies, Mid-Beach is the perfect in-between, with its own arts district and luxury hotels. When you’re ready to step away from the sand, head to Wynwood for its outdoor street art, galleries, and casual dining. Sink your teeth into a classic Cuban sandwich at Versailles in Little Havana, then end the night at Sala’o Cuban Restaurant & Bar with live music and salsa dancing. Nature lovers can take a short drive to Key Biscayne for calmer waters and scenic bike paths, or venture to Everglades National Park for a uniquely Floridian wildlife experience.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
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Puerto Vallarta offers a unique mix of golden-sand beaches, lush jungle-covered mountains, and a lively cultural scene. The beaches range from the bustling shores of Playa Los Muertos to quieter spots such as Conchas Chinas, located just south of town. For more secluded beaches, take a boat trip to Yelapa or Las Ánimas, or head inland to the Sierra Madre Mountains for hiking, horse riding, or ATV excursions. Accommodations include large beachfront resorts, such as Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa and Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta, as well as boutique hotels such as Villa Lala Hotel Boutique and BellView Hotel Boutique. Back in town, wander along the Malecón, the seaside promenade lined with sculptures, galleries, restaurants, and bars that come alive in the evenings.
San Diego, California
With 70 miles of coastline, San Diego sits at the southernmost point of the West Coast and is defined by its easygoing beach culture. The long, sandy beaches of La Jolla are known for their clear water, sea lions, and snorkeling along the rocky shoreline. Coronado Beach, which is located just across the bay from downtown, offers wide sands and calm waves. For more action, head to Mission Beach and Pacific Beach for busy boardwalks and beach bars. If traveling with kids, save time for Belmont Park, where a wristband provides access to unlimited rides. Away from the shore, plan an afternoon in Balboa Park, home to museums, gardens, and Spanish Colonial architecture. Then head to Gaslamp Quarter for dinner and nightlife. La Puerta serves up street tacos, while Union Kitchen & Tap offers a seasonal menu that includes everything from flatbreads to prime hand-cut steaks. For a dose of nature, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve sits just north of the city and offers coastal hiking trains with sweeping ocean views.
