Carmel

• Drive down California's picturesque Pacific Coast Highway to Carmel. Carmel-by-the-Sea, as it is formally known, has been a major arts center since the early 1900s and today you can reap the rewards. Visitors will find that dogs are allowed in many eateries, hotels and shops. The quaint village appeal and beauty of the coastline is retained through strict development and zoning laws. For those interested in the arts, visual, literary and theater arts are well represented as is music.
  
  

Atlantic City

• Atlantic City is a good choice for those seeking something a little more lively. Located along the shore in New Jersey, the area is famous for its Vegas-like casinos, and its Boardwalk and beaches. After the gambling and casinos, there is shopping to be had at The Quarter. An enclosed shopping center located inside the Tropicana Casino, The Quarter offers places to eat, pubs, a movie theater and many shops. For sports enthusiasts, The Atlantic City Diablos, a National Premier Soccer League team, play their matches nearby.
  
  

Dauphin Island

• Catch a ferry out to Dauphin Island of the coast of Alabama. A sleepy place during the off-season, the island receives hordes of visitors during the summer months. Of note in the area is Fort Gaines, built during the early 1800s, where tours can be had. The estuarium catalogues local marine life and can be explored for a low entry fee. The main draw here, however, is the coastline. Visitors and mainlanders alike flock to the beach to escape the summer heat and stroll along it in the evening to enjoy one of the many seafood restaurants and pubs.
  
  

Cancun

• Fly out of the U.S. for a few days and explore Tulum, Mexico. Located on the Yucatan Peninsula south of Cancun, Tulum is the Cancun of old. Not fully developed, Tulum retains much of its Mexican charm and is an ideal place to relax. Beaches are typically stunning, marine life abundant for those who wish to snorkel or fish, and the nearby jungle makes for a worthwhile side trip. Tulum is well suited for a weekend trip as there are many sights including Mayan ruins perched on a small cliff overlooking the ocean, Punta Laguna Nature Reserve and spectacular cave diving.
  
  

Black River

• Rent a cabin for the weekend in Lesterville, Missouri. Located south of St. Louis and close to Mark Twain National Forest, cabins can be rented that are both cozy and affordable. The Black River runs nearby and is the main draw for visitors. Things to do include canoeing, tubing, camping, swimming and fishing. The Black River is considered the cleanest in the state. Black River Cozy Cabin is a good place to start for a rental cabin.