It’s not too soon to begin planning your next beach vacation. Yes, summer and its sweltering temperatures are behind us, but why not start planning now so you can be ready for a return to sun, sand and soothing ocean breezes. What is key to selecting the perfect beach destination is deciding between a domestic locale or a tropical island and determining what you want — thrills or relaxation. Don't worry, plenty of both are at your disposal!

ARUBA
“One Happy Island” is the ultimate in beach vacations and a Caribbean favorite offering a travel buffet of tropical treats. Saddle-up for an exhilarating horseback ride in the interior or rent motorized toys for fun in the water. Aruba’s Catamaran Regatta, usually in November, is a highlight of the year, as champion sailors converge on the island for a week of sailing. Aruba’s two month version of Carnival begins New Year’s Day.

HONOLULU
This turquoise water paradise is home to the world’s most famous beach — Waikiki. The legendary resort and recreation center, with its stunningly beautiful panoramas and spectacular vistas, is a playground for singles, couples and families. The bustling Hawaiian city is loaded with world-class shopping, unparalleled dining experiences and an abundance of daytime and nighttime activities.

MIAMI
Florida is synonymous with beaches and the Miami/South Beach region has emerged as the epicenter of coastal life and culture. Here, the ethnic influences of Cuban and Latin cultures lend to the “hot, hot, hot” lifestyle that attracts scores of visitors — the famous, the infamous and the curious. Here, the nights are virtually hotter than the days.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA.
Fort Lauderdale is aptly nicknamed the Venice of America. No longer just the college kids’ retreat to wild abandon, Fort Lauderdale has grown up and is a full fledged vacation destination for visitors from all walks of life and all corners of the planet. If you’re not up for the African American version of beach party bingo, you’re welcome to find a secluded romantic setting for you and your own "Moon-Doggie."

MONTEREY/CARMEL, CALIF.
Not to be outdone, California’s 840-mile long coastline offers beach experiences as diverse and as colorful as the people who live there. You can’t miss visiting here, whether you visit the unparalleled concentration of beach destinations around the Los Angeles area, jaunt down to the Santa Monica Pier or opt for the splendor of indulging all of your senses at once. Feel the sun and the sand, inhale the ocean air, listen to the sounds of the sea, and enjoy succulent seafood while taking in the breathtaking scenery from a hilltop cafe in Monterey or Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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Features: Beach