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American Beaches

From the coast of Maine to the Florida Panhandle, the shores of California and the islands of Hawaii, America enjoys an impressive diversity of beaches. More than just destinations for sunny, sandy getaways, these beach towns provide opportunities for exploring nature, enjoying outdoor adventure, discovering culture and enjoying entertainment.

Whether you have a group full of beach lovers or you are just looking for a way to liven up your next tour itinerary, consider spending some time in one of these American beach destinations.

Folly Beach, South Carolina

Just a 15-minute drive from Charleston, South Carolina, is Folly Beach. Bordered on one side by the Atlantic coastline and on the other by the Folly River, this skinny barrier island attracts visitors throughout the year with its laid-back atmosphere, eclectic Center Street shopping and array of outdoor activities. Surfing enthusiasts flock to the region, hoping to catch the perfect wave. Other popular water sports are kayaking and paddleboarding. Adventurous visitors can see the coast from a lofty but secure vantage point on a parasailing expedition.

Those seeking a more sedate way to experience the coast might enjoy the dolphin-watching or a cruise to nearby Morris Island Lighthouse. As for dining, if the wide selection of restaurants does not appeal, Soraya McKay, public relations director for the city of Folly Beach, notes that oystering in the river is always an alternative.

McKay shared a secret that the locals know: “The best time of year on Folly Beach is not just May through August; it’s really all year.”

Whatever time of year you choose to visit, the calendar is filled with celebrations and festivals, beginning with the Flip-Flop Drop and Bill Murray Look-a-Like Polar Bear Plunge to ring in the New Year. Folly Gras is the community’s lead-up to Lent, complete with oyster roasts, parades and a masquerade ball. In April, the annual Sea and Sand Festival promises fun for the entire group, with street fairs, live music, sandcastle contests and surfing competitions. Visitors in the fall won’t miss out either; Follypalooza, an annual music festival and carnival to raise money for charity, is held every October.

www.visitfolly.com

Ogunquit, Maine

Karen Arel, from the Ogunquit Chamber of Commerce, is proud to call her Maine town the beautiful place by the sea: “We have three miles of pristine sandy beach with the Ogunquit River on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other,” she said.

Little commercialization and strict building codes mean that although there are hotels and restaurants close enough for beachside dining, no houses or construction are allowed on the beach. Instead the clean sand and grassy dunes can be enjoyed in peace.

But potential visitors shouldn’t be fooled into thinking that there is nothing to do in this little community. Far from it. Surfing, sailing, fishing, kayaking and cruising are just some of the ways to have fun in the water. The Marginal Way is a 1.25-mile paved footpath that runs atop the cliff alongside the beach and offers excellent views of the Atlantic. The five area lighthouses — some accessible by car, others by boat — all make perfect photographic subjects.

What makes Ogunquit stand out is its busy calendar of events. In April, Patriots’ Day brings historical re-enactments and drum concerts to the beach. The annual Fourth of July Fireworks display is considered one of the best in Maine, if not along the entire Northeastern coast. Among the other events during the summer peak season are sandcastle contests and Paddle to the Point, a stand-up paddleboard race to raise money for charity. September is time for the Lobster Dash 5K and the Kite Festival, followed by the Ogunquit Fest in October, celebrating fall at the beach. Even the Christmas season is busy with more parades, fireworks and caroling by the sea.

www.ogunquit.org