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Click HERE To Book Any Of The Hotels Below via My Expedia Travel Shop Below is a well researched list Active travelers can enjoy pilates at this hotel. Adventurous travelers may like the scuba diving, cycling, + beach yoga. turned luxury hotel in Southwestern France's charming countryside, has been named to the Condé Nast Traveler Travel TIPS  * Make several COPIES of your PASSPORT + IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS should you ever lose or misplace

Where To STAY Click HERE To Book Your Next Trip via My Expedia Travel Shop NANTUCKET, MASSACHUSETTS

Gifts Perfect for TRAVEL Lovers I’ve researched, asked around, scoured my favorite retailers + tapped

Florence is the kind of place that feels like stepping into a living museum, where every street, piazza + sunlit façade tells a story. Whether it’s your first time in Italy or your fifth, this Renaissance gem has a way of slowing you down + pulling you into its rhythm. If you’re planning your trip, timing makes all the difference. The best time to visit Italy + Florence in particular is in May, just before the summer rush, or in September, when the crowds begin to thin but the weather is still warm + inviting. More broadly, mid-April through mid-July + again from September to November offer that sweet spot of pleasant temperatures + manageable crowds. August tends to be overwhelmingly hot + busy, while December can feel a bit too cold + quiet for a full experience. Getting there is part of the magic. The three-hour drive from Milan to Florence takes you through the rolling hills of rural Tuscany, an iconic landscape dotted with vineyards, olive groves + small villages. This region is also home to Italy’s renowned textile industry, adding another layer of cultural richness to the journey. And for those who love fashion as much as art, set aside time to explore the outlet malls located southeast of the city. With so many designer destinations to discover, you’ll want at least two full days to browse, shop + soak it all in. Florence isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience. With the right timing + a little planning, your visit can feel both effortless + unforgettable. Click HERE To BOOK Your Stay At The HOTELS Below Palazzo di Camugliano  - An elegant boutique stay set in a restored historic palace, blending original frescoes + antique charm w/ modern comfort, offering a quiet, refined retreat in the heart of Florence. Villa San Michele  - A Belmond Hotel - A luxurious hillside retreat set in a former monastery, featuring a stunning Renaissance façade, terraced gardens + sweeping views over Florence, combining timeless elegance with world-class service. Four Seasons Hotel Firenze  - A lavish urban resort set within a historic palace + expansive private gardens, offering opulent rooms, Renaissance details + a peaceful escape just minutes from Florence’s main attractions. Be sure to visit their restaurant, Il Palagio. Continentale Hotel  - A chic, fashion-forward boutique hotel set along the Arno River near Ponte Vecchio, known for its minimalist white interiors, 1950s-inspired design + panoramic rooftop terrace w/ sweeping views over Florence. Cerretani Hotel Firenze - (previously called Sofitel Firenze) - A stylish boutique hotel set in a historic palace in the heart of Florence, blending modern interiors with subtle 17th-century details, just steps from the Duomo + the city’s top shopping streets. We stayed here back in 1999 for New Years Y2K. Hotel Villa Liana  - A 19th-century residence that previously served as the British Embassy w/ frescoed ceilings, antique furnishings + a peaceful garden, offering a quiet, residential escape just a short walk from Florence’s main landmarks. The St. Regis Florence - (formerly the Grand Hotel), features the renowned Winter Garden restaurant. Built in the 19th century rather than the 14th, it offers opulent, history-steeped suites, a magnificent ballroom + stunning views of the Arno River. Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy - A prestigious five‑star luxury hotel in the heart of Florence’s historic Piazza della Repubblica, placing you within walking distance of major sights like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery + Ponte Vecchio. Originally opened in the 19th century + carefully reimagined by the Rocco Forte Hotels group with elegant interiors by Lady Olga Polizzi, the property blends classic Florentine grandeur with contemporary Italian style. The hotel features beautifully appointed rooms + suites, refined dining at its Irene bistro + terrace + thoughtful service typical of the Rocco Forte brand, all in an atmosphere that reflects both the city’s artistic heritage + modern luxury hospitality. Portrait Firenze (Lungarno Collection) - A luxurious, five‑star boutique hotel owned by the Ferragamo family. Located on the banks of the Arno River just steps from the iconic Ponte Vecchio, it offers bespoke hospitality with elegant, all‑suite accommodations designed by renowned architect Michele Bönan. The property blends contemporary Italian style with subtle mid‑century charm + personalized service, making each guest’s stay feel uniquely tailored. It’s also a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and is celebrated for its refined interiors, exclusive experiences+ stunning river views. (per CIC) Where To EAT Trattoria I'Parione - A favorite of comedian, Heather McMahan Osteria del Cinghi ale Bianco   - A favorite of Gwyneth Paltrow Poggio Amorelli Farm  - Wine tasting straight out of a movie overlooking a beautiful vineyard + they serve you the most amazing meal. Get the truffle pasta! Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura  - A contemporary Italian restaurant w/ unique identities embodying creativity, elegance + playfulness. (Florence, Beverly Hills, Tokyo + Seoul) La Giostra  - Cameron Diaz has been spotted here w/ her family + Leonardo DiCaprio has also been spotted eating here w/ his parents. Enoteca Pinchiorri  - restaurant founded by Giorgio + Annie in the 1970's. Starting from a dream winery + then achieving 3 Michelin stars. Harry's Bar + The Garden  - It's been around since 1953. 2 restaurants + an American bar in Florence.  Osteria Da Fortunata  - founded in 1921 with Fortunata, the one who gave rise to a century-old culinary legend in central Rome. They has locations in Milano, Roma, Bologna, Firenze + Miami O'munaciello - pizzeria Al'antico Vinaio  - Order a panini Osteria Santo Spirito  - Order the truffle gnocchi Gusta Pizza  - The menu is very simple, pizzas, calzones + a range of drinks. There is cosy indoor seating + an outdoor terrace. La Carraia  - Be sure to stop here for gelato! La Terrazza - Be sure to have a drink here. Located on the rooftop of the Continentale Hotel   Ditta Artigianale - A great spot for coffee / breakfast. Trattoria Garga - Located right in the centre of the old town of Florence a few steps away from Santa Maria Novella square. il Salviatino - A villa of delights on the hills of Florence, hosting da Giacomo al Salviatino restaurant Cibrèo  -  great restaurant per my Uncle Dominick The Lodge Club   - Viale Poggi 1 Pentola dell'Oro - known as The Golden Bowl + located near the Santa Croce.  Cibreo - Soups, souffles, polenta, Tuscan dishes, cheesecake w/ tangerine marmalade + torta di pere.  Gilli - Coffee with classic desserts like biscotti + tiramisu in a wood-paneled landmark founded in 1733. A great spot for lunch (they have great salads) + it's near the shopping district as well. Acqua al 2 - Excellent dishes + selected wines, but above all the unique atmosphere that sets us apart. Plates signed by famous visitors adorn the walls of this iconic restaurant. Buca Mario - generous portions of traditional Tuscan dishes, such as their acclaimed Florentine steak + lasagna. Babae - Via Santo Spirito 21 - Located in the Oltrarno district is the most famous active wine window ( buchetta del vino ) in Florence, popular for reviving the tradition of serving wine + cocktails directly through a small 17th-century window. It is frequented for its authentic, Stanley Tucci approved experience. Where To SHOP The Mall - via Europa 8, Leccio Reggello - Gucci, Saint Laurent, Sergio Rossi, Bottega Veneta, Armani, Fendi + more.  Designer Outlet Serravalle - Via della Moda, 1, 15069 Serravalle Scrivia AL. An hour's drive from San Remo. Space (Prada Outlet) - Via Maddalena, 31, 52025 Montevarchi - Located about an hour from Florence. It is poorly signposted + shrouded in secrecy in an industrial park. Get there early!  P. Papini + Co  - The best leather shop in Florence. Leathers are tanned in Tuscany using an antique vegetable treatment. Mercato Centrale  - (or San Lorenzo market) in the city center. A great open market w/ food + gifts Sant’Ambrogio Market - The oldest market in Florence Bruscoli  - Via Montebello, 58/r, Firenze - Leather artisan Things To DO Accademia Gallery - (Galleria dell'Accademia) World-renowned for housing Michelangelo's original David statue. Located on Via Ricasoli, this top-tier museum also features Michelangelo’s unfinished Prisoners , the Museum of Musical Instruments + 13th-16th century Florentine paintings. Pre-booked tickets are strongly recommended. The Church of San Salvatore al Monte - Located on the most amazing hilltop where you can see the city of Florence, inside the church we attended a mass with chanting monks. This is not to be missed.  Boboli Gardens - directly behind the Pitti Palace, a premier example of 16th-century Italian Renaissance, formal garden design. Commissioned by the Medici family, this expansive 111-acre, UNESCO-listed, outdoor museum features geometric paths, iconic sculptures, fountains + impressive panoramic views of Florence. Piazza Michaelangelo  - Florence’s premier panoramic viewing point, offering iconic, free, 360-degree views of the city skyline, including the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio + Arno River. Designed by Giuseppe Poggi in 1869, this hilltop plaza features a bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David + is a premier sunset spot, accessible via walking (25 mins from center). Santa Maria Novella Del Fiore  - commonly known as the Duomo, is Florence's iconic cathedral, famed for its massive, Renaissance-style Brunelleschi dome + 15th-century Gothic design. Located in Piazza del Duomo, it features a white, green + pink marble facade, stunning Vasari frescoes inside + is free to visit.  Castello della Pancetta  - (often referred to as La Paneretta) A historic 13th-century castle + renowned winery located in the Chianti Classico region near Florence, Italy. Situated in Barberino Val d'Elsa, it offers wine tastings, tours of its historic cellars + luxury accommodation, featuring vineyards with native Tuscan grapes. Perfume + Cologne Making Class - Create your own fragrance with a perfume masterclass. Golf Cart Ride Around The City - Private golf cart tours in Florence provide a comfortable, eco-friendly way to see top sights, covering historic, pedestrian-restricted centers + scenic, elevated viewpoints like Piazzale Michelangelo. These 1.5 – 2 hour tours typically include a guide, offering insights on spots like the Ponte Vecchio, Duomo + Pitti Palace. WEDDING PLANNING In Florence Tuscan Wedding  - Jill Romanelli - An American destination wedding planning service in Italy. From intimate ceremonies to grand castle weddings. Based in Florence, Italy (Comedian, Heather McMahan used them for her wedding) Bianco Bouquet  - a luxury destination wedding planning agency based in Florence, Italy. They specialize in planning weddings across Italy, including Lake Como, Tuscany + the Amalfi Coast + also have a presence in Dubai. Their primary office is located at Piazza Leon Battista Alberti, Firenze (per actress, Amy Jackson)

Nantipa (Nantipa Beach Resort) - A boutique luxury beachfront hotel that was named 2021 Travelers' Choice Things To DO Alajuela is best for adventurous travelers as the area is home to Arenal Volcano National Park , where travelers can take in spectacular views, enjoy hot springs, or sign up for a number of alerts, traffic Magic Seaweed : Surf forecasts, weather Whatsapp : Messaging, calling InCostaRica : Travel

Click HERE or below to see my entire list...I'm always updating it!

While doing some research trying to find the perfect meeting point between New Jersey + Massachusetts for my family, you might assume it’s somewhere purely practical like Bridgeport, Connecticut , which technically sits right in the middle. But in reality, most families (mine included) skip the exact midpoint in favor of somewhere a little more special. That’s where the Hudson Valley + Catskills come in.... After a lot of research, I’ve found that towns like Rhinebeck, New Paltz + Woodstock hit the sweet spot. They’re roughly 2.5 hours from both North Jersey + much of Massachusetts, making them an easy, balanced drive for everyone. But more importantly, they actually feel like a getaway. Compared to somewhere like Bridgeport, Connecticut, this region offers: Way more scenic beauty (think mountains, forests + charming small towns) Better options for boutique hotels, cozy inns + vacation rentals A huge range of activities, from hiking + antiquing to wineries + great restaurants It’s the kind of place where meeting up doesn’t feel like a logistical compromise, it feels like a mini vacation. In this guide, I’ll break down exactly where to stay, where to eat + what to do across the Catskills + Hudson Valley, focusing on my favorite areas: Rhinebeck, New Paltz + Woodstock. Where To STAY Click HERE To BOOK Your STAY In The CATSKILLS Captain Joseph Allen House  -  Catskills, NY - A historic mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places that feels like staying in a private boutique hotel. Sleeps 16+ guests. Has a pool + large entertaining spaces w/ elegant restored interiors. HUNTER Scribner's Catskill Lodge - Hunter, NY - Mountain lodge in the heart of the Catskills + home of Scribner's Prospect. Instagram: @scribnerslodge @scribnersprospect #ScribnersLodge #SCLPUpstater #ScribnerHollowPost ROXBURY The Roxbury - Roxbury, NY - This Saratoga Springs boutique hotel brand is bringing motor lodges into the 21st century, but keeping the nostalgic vibes intact. LIVINGSTON MANOR The DeBruce - Livingston Manor, NY - Historic hotel w/ award winning restaurant perched on 600 acres of Catskills wilderness. Pool, private hiking trails + fly fishing. #TheDeBruce The Arnold House - Livingston Manor, NY - A cozy, rustic-chic retreat on 80 acres of forested land, known for its tavern, event hosting + relaxed, "unplugged" atmosphere. #SmoreFunUpstate BIG INDIAN Urban Cowboy Lodge - Big Indian, NY - A 44 room, boutique hotel offering rustic-luxury, design forward accommodations on 68 acres w/ outdoor cedar soaking tubs, fireplace lounge, Estonian sauna + the Public House restaurant + bar. Designed by: IG: @LyonPorter PHOENICIA The Graham + Co. - Phoenicia, NY - A stylishly renovated 20-room motel near Hunter Mountain. Offering a modern, minimalist take w/ a laid back, industrial chic vibe w/ a pool, hammocks, fire pits + complimentary bikes for exploring town. As seen on Discovery+ and Magnolia Network NORTH BRANCH The North Branch Inn - North Branch, NY - An owner operated boutique hotel + restaurant where authentic charm, thoughtful touches + culinary delights are at the heart of your stay. OLIVEREA VALLEY Eastwind Oliverea Valley - Oliverea Valley, NY - A Scandinavian inspired boutique hotel w/ 30 rooms + A-frame cabins. A minimalist yet luxurious, nature-focused stay w/ saunas, firepits + the Dandelion restaurant, near Big Indian Wilderness trails + hiking. WINDHAM Eastwind Windham - Windham, NY - A boutique, Scandinavian inspired hotel w/ 32 cozy hotel rooms + unique Lushna cabins w/ panoramic views. A romantic, year round stay w/ skiing + hiking w/ outdoor saunas, fire pits + Bunkhouse Lounge. CALLICOON CENTER Callicoon Hills - Callicoon Center, NY - A 23 acre retreat w/ 65 casual rooms across a boarding house, deck house + cabins, alongside a seasonal pool, sauna + Conover Club restaurant. KENOZA LAKE Kenoza Hall - Kenoza Lake, NY - A restored 1900s lakeside boutique hotel w/ 22 hotel rooms + 10 bungalows) on 55 acres. Full service Hemlock Spa, a lake-view restaurant serving Old World cuisine + private lake access + hiking trails. ROSCOE The Yarra - Roscoe, NY - A design forward, 4 room bed + breakfast w/ a cozy, curated experience featuring Australian inspired dining, locally sourced provisions close to the Beaverkill + Willowemoc Rivers. Roscoe Mountain Club - Roscoe, NY - A 1,000 acre, year round woodland retreat w/ an 18 hole championship golf course, a 24-room inn + restaurant, hiking, fishing + pickleball, catering to both leisure guests + events. BARRYVILLE The Darby  - Barryville, NY - A stylish, modern, 3 bedroom, 2 bath rental cabin w/ high end amenities like a private indoor sauna. Instagram: @The.Darby.AFrame @ Life.At .Darby Stickett Inn - Barryville, NY - A boutique guesthouse w/ (4) 2 room suites (Drink, Eat, Soak, Steam) + a separate 2 bedroom cottage w/ a modern, rustic getaway near the Delaware River. On-site Bang Bang Bar w/ coffee, cider + food. MOUNT TREMPER Howland House - Mount Tremper, NY - A restored 1850s farmhouse inn w/ 10 unique rooms w/ soaking tubs. A cozy stay w/ an on-site bar + restaurant, Oliver's. TANNERSVILLE Deer Mountain Inn - Tannersville, NY - A luxury, 168 acre boutique hotel + restaurant w/ an Arts + Crafts style main lodge w/ 6 rooms, 4 private cabins + restaurant w/ panoramic mountain views + hiking trails. Where To EAT LIVINGSTON MANOR Sunshine Colony Bar - 47 Main Street, Livingston Manor Upstream Wine + Spirits  - 65 Main Street, Livingston Manor, NY (down the street from Sunshine Colony) Stumble Out Bar  - 67 Main Street, Livingston Manor, NY - Serving craft cocktails, beer, wine, dinner + weekly specials. Main Street Farm  - 49 Main Street, Livingston Manor, NY - A gourmet grocery store The Walk In Manor  (The Neon Croissant) - 66 Main Street, Livingston Manor, NY 12758  Coffee, breakfast, lunch + more. Get their cookies + key lime pie! The Kaatskeller  - 39 Main Street, Livingston Manor - Wood fired pizzas + cocktails LEEDS Gracie's Luncheonette - 969 Main St., Leeds, NY - Get an apple cider float + donuts! Casa Susanna Camptown - 800 Co Rd 23B, Leeds, NY - Incredible upscale Mexican cuisine. (per D.B) HUNTER Fellow Mountain Cafe - 7883 Main Street, Hunter, NY - A popular, cozy spot for coffee, breakfast + lunch situated in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, near the entrance to Hunter Mountain. EAST WINDHAM Day June Lunchonette - 387 NY-296 East Windham, NY / IG: EatDayJune / Breakfast, lunch + dessert BIG INDIAN Eastwind Oliverea Valley Bar - 212 McKenley Hollow Road, Big Indian, NY - Located inside the Eastwind Olivera Valley Hotel Dandelion Restaurant - 212 McKenley Hollow Rd, Big Indian, NY - Also located inside the Eastwind Olivera Valley Hotel HENSONVILLE Matilda - 39 Goshen Rd, Hensonville, NY - A restaurant located inside The Henson Hotel Paracasa Bakery  - 391 NY-296, Hensonville, NY CALLICOON Seminary Hill Orchard + Cidery  - 43 Wagner Lane, Callicoon, NY - "James Fenimore Cooper's America w/ a dash of Tuscany" ROSCOE Grizzly Bagels - 59 Stewart Ave, Roscoe, NY Roscoe Beer Co. - 145 Rockland Road, Roscoe, NY Northern Farm House Pasta  - 65 Rockland Road, Roscoe, NY Things TO DO MOUNT TREMPER Kaaterskill Falls - 5096 Route 28, Mount Tremper, NY - A two-stage waterfall on Spruce Creek in the eastern Catskill Mountains, between the hamlets of Haines Falls + Palenville in Greene County HAINES FALLS Sunset Rock Trail - 874 N Lake Rd, Haines Falls, NY - A 4.6-mile hike w/ mild to heavy foot traffic. This loop is also connected to Artist's Rock, Newman's Ledge + Mary's Glen Trail. CALLICCON Seminary Hill Orchard + Cidery - 43 Wagner Lane, Callicoon, NY - "James Fenimore Cooper's America w/ a dash of Tuscany" NORTH BRANCH North Branch Cider Mill - 38 North Branch Callicoon Centre Road, North Branch, NY HUNTER Elevated Catskills - 7261 NY-23A Hunter, NY (wine, spirits + cider) LONG EDDY La Valley Estates - Long Eddy, NY - An enchanting private estate, 172-acre wedding venue + event retreat located in the Western Catskills. It functions as a vacation rental + event space featuring a farmhouse that sleeps up to 30 people, a barn for events + 6 cabins.

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HAWAII Hotel Wailea Lahaina in Maui is a top choice as travelers opt to chase the last rays of summer A free pedestrian ferry makes it simple to travel between New Orleans + Gretna . Hamilton Princess Plus, from many East Coast travel hubs , it's less than a 3-hour plane ride to this Fall Getaway Where To Go This Fall - 10 Best Fall Vacations Plan the Perfect Romantic Fall Getaway #travel #fall #falltraveldestinations #traveldestinations #ravenwoodcastle #stayinacastle #castle #rockinghills

This summer, the DeRosa family is gathering for a reunion in beautiful Sunset Beach , North Carolina + we couldn’t be more excited. Many of us will be meeting relatives for the very first time, while others are reconnecting after years apart. It’s the perfect chance to slow down, share stories + spend meaningful time together by the ocean. Tucked along North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands , Sunset Beach is a peaceful, nature-filled coastal town. It’s far quieter than nearby Myrtle Beach, making it the perfect place to relax, spot wildlife + enjoy long scenic walks along the shore. Below you’ll find a collection of recommendations gathered from our family members as we plan the trip, from favorite restaurants to fun things to do in the area. Take a look + if you have your own tips or favorite spots in Sunset Beach, feel free to share them in the comments! WHERE TO STAY + HOW TO GET THERE Click HERE for Expedia's Top 4-5 Star Stays on Sunset Beach WHERE TO EAT The Boundary House - Upscale but still relaxed. Great for large family dinners. Big menu: seafood, steaks + pasta. Beck's Restaurant - Very casual + family friendly. One of the original Calabash seafood restaurants (dating back decades). Famous for Calabash-style fried shrimp, flounder, shrimp platter + hush puppies. Calabash-style seafood (lightly breaded + fried) made the town famous as the “Seafood Capital of the World.” Las Palmeras - The go-to Mexican restaurant for many locals. Large portions + margaritas. La Cucina - One of the best Italian spots nearby. Good pasta + chicken dishes. Great option if someone in your group doesn’t want seafood. Calabash Seafood Hut - Classic no-frills seafood joint. Shrimp, oysters, crab cakes + hush puppies. Gravy Southern Eatery - Popular with locals for Southern comfort food / home-style meals such as: meatloaf, turkey w/ dressing + peach cobbler. Oak + Palm - "It sits right on the intracoastal waters at the bridge. Very close- 1/2 mile from Seatrail lodging. Yummy, beautiful views + outdoors eating." (thank you to the lovely, Carol Kissal for this suggestion!) MMM Que Rico - "A fabulous Peruvian chicken place in Calabash" (thank you to the lovely, Grace Dillon for this suggestion!) Sunset Slush - "A local chain with the best Italian ice. Always a go-to on + off the island" (shout out again to the lovely, Grace Dillon for this suggestion!) OIB Surf + Java  - "A great spot to drink an artisan latte while browsing very cute beach wear" (shout out again to the lovely, Grace Dillon for this suggestion!) Coffee Cottage + Books & Moore - "A perfect little duo with a shared lot + stone walking paths. Gorgeous resident cat at the used book store. There are also some spas in that tiny village-like cluster of shops, but I've never been." (per Grace, let us know if anyone has been to the spas so I can add them here) Fibber McGees - Fun local pub vibe. Known for shrimp burgers + comfort food. Good drinks + casual atmosphere. THINGS TO DO One of the most unique experiences at Sunset Beach is walking to Bird Island , a protected coastal preserve. Tip: Go around sunset or early morning when it’s quieter + cooler. Walk about 1 mile down the beach from the public access point. Look for sand dollars, shells + shorebirds. Visit the Kindred Spirit Mailbox - Located in the protected wilderness of Bird Island Coastal Reserve. It is one of the most emotional + unusual attractions on the entire North Carolina coast. Visitors walk about 1 mile down the beach to reach the mailbox. Inside are journals filled with messages from people around the world. The mailbox became so famous it inspired the novel, The Mailbox. The same author behind The Notebook . Walk through Sunset Beach Town Park Visit the Old Bridge Museum Join a sea turtle nesting program (summer) Browse local shops + markets BEACHES, MARSHES + TIDAL CREEKS The beach itself is the main attraction. The wide sandy shoreline + lack of high-rise buildings make it a peaceful, uncrowded beach experience.Things people love doing here: Shelling + sand dollar hunting Watching sunsets over the ocean (rare on the East Coast because of the island’s orientation) Walking the Sunset Beach Pier Fishing or just grabbing a drink + snack at the pier shop The marshes + tidal creeks around Sunset Beach are perfect for water activities.Popular spots: Jinks Creek Intracoastal Waterway marsh channels You can: Rent kayaks or paddle boards Join guided eco-tours Spot dolphins, birds + coastal wildlife while paddling through the marshes. INDOOR Activities A fun indoor activity is the Ingram Planetarium . Highlights: Full-dome space + astronomy shows Science exhibits Laser music shows at night GOLFING Sunset Beach is surrounded by excellent coastal golf courses. Popular ones include: Sea Trail Golf Resort Oyster Bay Golf Links The Pearl Golf Links These courses feature marsh views, water hazards + coastal scenery, making the area a major golf destination. CALABASH Take a Short Trip to Nearby Calabash  which is just 5–10 minutes away, the fishing village of Calabash is often called the “Seafood Capital of the World.”  Things to do there: Eat Calabash-style fried seafood Walk along the shrimp boat docks Take fishing or dolphin cruises Where To SHOP ( shout out to the lovely, Grace Dillon for these suggestions!!) Market In The Park - " Just before you cross the bridge over to the island, there’s a pop-up market every Thursday with booths from local artists + farmers selling everything you could imagine. It’s really fantastic." Callahan's of Calabash - "They have a great year 'round Christmas shop inside called St. Nick Nacks. It's also a great place for all Ocean Isle / Calabash / Sunset Beach memorabilia, holiday shopping + jewelry" Bleu - "For boutique clothes shopping, with a precious doggy sales rep on the payroll" OIB Surf + Java - "A great spot to drink an artisan latte while browsing very cute beach wear" Nell’s Fine Consignment - "Has an incredibly lovely staff + great clothes. I’m actually wearing a skirt I got there right now!" Fun FAMILY REUNION Ideas If you're organizing activities, these work great at beach reunions: Daytime Family Olympics on the beach Shell-collecting contest Group kayak tour Evening Sunset photo session Beach bonfire (if permitted) Family trivia or games at the rental house Tradition idea Have everyone write a letter at the Kindred Spirit Mailbox together. Pro Tips for SUMMER at Sunset Beach Bring bug spray (marsh mosquitoes at dusk). Expect short afternoon thunderstorms . Watch for sea turtle nests marked on the beach. Book restaurants early for large groups.

If you’re traveling by RV, reserve a spot on the east rim for some of the most dramatic scenery imaginable

In Part 2 of my New Jersey Travel Guide, I'll take you from Hamburg ( the northernmost county in the website here A visit to Howell Living History Farm brings you back to the year 1900: horses + buggies traveled