Serene Private Villas Steps from the Sea

The 2-mile stretch of pristine beach that fronts Palm Island is accessible from the mainland only by boat or car ferry, making it seem like an tropical island. But just steps away, the 100 privately owned villas of the Palm Island Resort line the sand, each dressed in a unique design that holds true to the Old Florida architectural style. Adults and kids alike can roam throughout the expansive resort, which is easy to navigate with your complimentary golf cart. There's plenty to do, with 11 tennis courts, five pools, a bustling recreation center, and two restaurants.

Guests in Island Beach villas start their days by drinking in breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. Each villa reflects the richness of the outside world with individual design schemes. You can whip up a meal in your villa's full kitchen or visit the onsite Rum Bay Restaurant for entrees drenched in its popular barbecue Swamp sauce.

Although many guests may no longer be children, a young-at-heart spirit pervades Palm Island, where there's no shortage of activities. Red Beard the Pirate shuffles across the boardwalk, clicking his boots and singing sprightly songs with a bright-green amazon parrot perched atop his shoulder. In addition, biking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and boogie-boarding excursions are easy to set up with a visit to the recreation office. The resort's Nature Program stimulates a sense of awe, as a resident naturalist flexes environmental know-how. Informative tours teach nature enthusiasts to find sea-turtle hatchlings, manatees, and dolphins and to attract discerning local birds such as herons and pelicans.

Cape Haze, Florida: Peaceful Waterfront Paradise

Ensconced between Sarasota and Fort Myers, Cape Haze is a sleepy coastal getaway marked by 360-degree views of the ocean. The watery nook, known the world over for its tarpon fishing, attracts fishermen eager to test their rods, reels, and Rodney Dangerfield impressions on its friendly waters. Aquatic adventures of all kinds find a special home here, as travelers often spend days traversing the waters in kayaks, canoes, or jet skis or with a snorkel. The rich waters have infused the surrounding land with a healthy green glow, underscoring numerous parks and beautiful golf courses, nine of which are within 25 minutes of Palm Island. Shopping is light in Cape Haze, but a short drive delivers visitors to nearby towns populated by quaint seaside shops and fresh seafood restaurants.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.