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Best Summer Vacation Destinations

Summer vacation travelers will find that they have a variety of destinations to choose from, all offering something unique and exciting to do. Many locations offer activities in the great outdoors, including hiking, biking, boating and exploring what Mother Nature has to offer.
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Budget-Friendly Destinations

Orlando Florida

One family-friendly and affordable summer vacation destination is Orlando, Florida. Though it is not situated right on the beach, it is home to many water parks and plenty of things to see and do. Those looking for a beach experience while visiting Orlando will find plenty of beaches about an hour and half (maybe a little bit more) to the east. But for those who stay in the Orlando area will find they have access to different water parks, including Wet 'n' Wild, Aquatica, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Not to mention the amazing pools and play areas many of the area hotels and resorts offer.

Other activities in Orlando include exploring International Drive, Old Towne or visiting the different theme parks, including SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Walt Disney World. These are just a few of the fun and exciting things you can do in the Orlando area, all while staying within your travel budget. Keep in mind, though, visiting the Orlando area can be affordable, all while area hotels and resorts offer a luxury travel experience.

Myrtle Beach

When planning a summer vacation, some may find that they are not able to pay for a luxurious beach vacation. But have no fear, there are plenty of places right here in the United States where you can still enjoy a ton of fun in the sun, while still being able to stick to a strict vacation budget. One popular budget-friendly destination is Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. This destination offers a dreamy beach vacation without breaking the bank. While in Myrtle Beach, you will have access to miles of sandy beaches and will be able to enjoy the popular boardwalk. However, there is more to Myrtle Beach than just sand, ocean and swimming. Travelers can also enjoy guided fishing expeditions, endless seafood buffets and local micro-breweries. Many of the hotels in the area offer amazing ocean views, outdoor pools and some even have lazy rivers and water play areas right there on property. Myrtle Beach is not only budget-friendly, it is a very family-friendly summer vacation destination.

Related: Guide To Disney World

Luxury Destinations

There are fantastic beach experiences available around the world, however, some of them come with a hefty price tag associated with the vacation. Luxury beach vacations can include everything you need at your summer vacation hotel. While exploring these destinations, you will be treated to five-star hotels, gourmet meals, luxurious spa treatments and much more. Some luxury beach experiences include those in the Caribbean, South Pacific and along Italy's Adriatic Coast. Though these destinations may cost more than a trip to South Carolina, the experiences are well worth the money.

Bali

One of the most popular luxury beach experiences is in Bali. This destination is home to some of the best and most-visited beaches in the world. Vacationers can enjoy the view from high above the Indian Ocean or go horseback riding on the beach at sunrise. Travelers wanting to step away from the beach for a bit will find plenty of other things to do in Bali, including exploring ancient temples and lush jungles. There are many luxury hotels along the beaches in Bali, many of which feature plush accommodations, spa treatments and gourmet dishes.

The South Pacific

The South Pacific is another great luxury summer vacation destination. While there, you can enjoy cocktails on the beach and surf at Bondi Beach. You can also enjoy tours of the Sydney Opera House or kick back and enjoy a beer at one of the lively pubs in the region. Some of the more popular activities to enjoy in the South Pacific include swimming with dolphins, exploring coral reefs and taking a boating tour to a quiet and secluded island. While there, you can stay at one of the many five-star properties or relax at a boutique hotel. There are many first class hotels all offering luxurious accommodations and high-end amenities.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock Photo Credit: Thinkstock
Fun Destinations

There are many destinations around the world that offer fun and exciting adventures during the summer months. Those just looking for a fun place to enjoy their summer will want to make plans to visit one of these exciting locations. All of the following locations offer pristine beaches, water activities and many things to see and do.

Maui 

Maui is a great place to visit during the summer and is perfect for families looking for an exotic getaway without the need to travel to a foreign country. While there, you can spend time relaxing at the beach or exploring the different island of Hawaii. Some fun activities in Maui include learning about the history and culture, exploring parks, surfing, boating, learning to hula dance, golfing and snorkeling. Some top things to do in Maui include driving along the road to Hana, spending the day at Kaanapali Beach or exploring the Haleakala National Park.

Related: 5 Best Excursions On Hawaii's Big Island

Nice

A vacation to Nice will put you in the heart of the French Riviera, where you can stretch out on the shores of the beach. Not only can you spend a lot of time playing on the pebbly waterfront area under palm trees, you can also have fun exploring some of the historic site of the city's Old Town. While in Nice you can stroll through the Place Massena, explore ancient Roman Ruins and listen to summer jazz concerts at Cimiez. Some must-do activities in Nice include exploring the Promenade de Anglais, visiting Castle Hill and stopping by the Chagall Museum.

Fiji

One final, must-visit summer vacation destination is Fiji. If you did not originally plan to visit the South Pacific, you must change your mind and add Fiji to the list. While in Fiji you can sit on sandy beaches next to turquoise waters and experience what a true tropical getaway is meant to be like. It may be exciting to enjoy the beaches while visiting Fiji, however, there are a lot of fun activities for those seeking adventure. Some fun activities include surfing, diving, parasailing and other fun water-themed sports. When visiting Fiji you must also make time to explore the Coral Coast, The Yasawas and Mamnucas.

There are many summer vacation destinations around the world that will offer plenty of things to see and do, all while spending time in the sun and having fun at the beach. The destination you choose will depend upon your travel budget, if you are traveling with family or what you want to see and do. However, no matter what your vacation plans include, traveling to one of the above-listed destinations will offer you excitement and tons of fun in the sun.

Heather Landon (Heather Leigh Carroll) is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions - writing and travel - to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.
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