8 Water Getaways

Marek Uliasz

When summer finally rolls around and you have some extra daylight on your hands, it’s a good time to escape to somewhere wet. It could be to a beach, lake, river or even a neighborhood pool. But my advice is to skip all the places everyone goes and try something new.

Eagle Harbor Lighthouse, Mohawk, Mich.

Plan an outdoor adventure on the stunning shores of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula. You’ll  have access to the country’s largest lake and its stunning shore views. Be sure to tour the Eagle Harbor Lighthouse. You can even rent the quaint Light Keepers Cottage for your stay.

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Watch Hill, R.I.

This elegant New England beach village — one of my favorites along the East Coast — reminds me of simpler days. It’s just a three-hour drive from New York City and two hours from Boston. Spend your days strolling along the beach at Napatree Point, lunching at the Olympia Tea Room, riding the historic Flying Horse Carousel. Be sure to book your room at the Ocean House.

Lake Chelan, Washington

If you like wineries, gourmet restaurants and small-town charm, then this is your dream lake getaway. I think I could move in for the summer and never get bored! Top of the list are, of course, the boating and water sports; afterward, head to an unforgettable culinary and wine-tasting experience at one of the 20 wineries in the area.

Folly Beach, S.C.

This one has been on my list for a good, long time. Folly Beach, right outside of Charleston (about a 20-minute drive), is a delightful little beach community. It’s the perfect place to unwind, eat some seafood, do a little paddleboarding, and relax and watch the waves tumble in. You can rent a beach cottage or camp nearby at the 643-acre James Island County Park’s campground.

Treebones Resort, Big Sur, California

How about a unique experience with sushi, yoga, gorgeous scenery and amazing sunset views? Pack your bags and reserve one of the 16 yurts at Treebones, located on California’s breathtaking Big Sur coast. Here you’ll have a queen-size bed and private redwood deck with panoramic ocean views. Aside from the coast and nature hikes, the resort offers yoga, massage and an outdoor sushi bar!

Anna Maria Island, Florida

This tiny barrier island proves that smaller is better when it comes to Florida beaches. It’s perfect for you if you like to avoid the crowds, catch a glimpse of a dolphin or manatee, wriggle your toes in perfect white sand and spend afternoons biking around town. Sunsets are a big deal on the island, which is so narrow that you can see sunsets over both the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay.

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Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

This backwoods lake is perfect for a fun family vacation. In addition to boating, bass fishing, hiking and golfing, you can relax at Spa Shiki with a regular massage or more exotic treatments such as the Amai chocolate body wrap. Challenge yourself to try something different, such parasailing or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Stay at the Lodge of Four Seasons for incredible golf and more.

Lake Michigan, Chicago

Almost any three-day weekend is a good excuse to head to Chicago. While most locals leave the city during the summer, you can enjoy yourself by visiting the fountains, hanging out at the beach and riding a rented bike along the water. At night, visit the Navy Pier for fireworks, and if you need a break from sun and sand, head over to Wrigley Field to take in a ballgame.

Photo: marekuliasz/iStock

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