Savannah is similar to Charleston, South Carolina, with its Spanish moss, Southern accents, and eerie cemeteries. However, this city, located around 100 miles to the south, has a peculiar side. Students from Savannah College of Art and Design mingle with paranormal investigators and preservationists, and Southern eateries coexist on the same street blocks as hip cafés and renovated theaters.

In the real crime novel "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," the eccentric individuals speak for themselves. As Tom Hanks memorably said in the "Forrest Gump" movie set in Savannah, perhaps history or nightlife are.

One of the oldest Black churches in North America is located in Savannah, and Fort Pulaski served as a safe haven for enslaved persons trying to flee to freedom during the antebellum period. But Savannah understands how to make tourists have a good time, whether they are in town to immerse themselves in history, view the sites, taste some delectable Southern food, or spend a few evenings bar-hopping.

Location: Chatham county, southeastern Georgia, U.S.

Rankings:

• #1 in Best Relaxing Getaways in the USA
• #1 in Best Places to Visit in Georgia
• #1 in Best Cheap Romantic Getaways
• #10 in Best Romantic Getaways in the USA
• #14 in Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• #15 in Best Foodie Cities in the U.S.
• #27 in Best Places to Visit in the USA

Best Things to Do:

• Forsyth Park
• History Tours
• Savannah City Market

Best Months to Visit: March to July

Hot Springs, located 55 miles southwest of Little Rock in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas, is a popular destination for travelers looking for leisure and the great outdoors. The town's name, which was inspired by a network of springs, is what draws the bulk of tourists.

In actuality, visitors have been drawn to these hot springs for countless years, beginning with American Indians. The town's Bathhouse Row is now crowded with tourists. Hot Springs National Park protects the city's naturally hot springs, however due to the city's close proximity to the park, some tourists may mistake it for the park itself.

Although dining, entertainment, and shopping may not immediately spring to mind when most think of Arkansas, the little town of Hot Springs, with its casino, water park, and assortment of eateries and shops, also checks all those activities off the list. As for amateur (and professional) historians and architects, the city's rich history and distinctive structures are fascinating. The town's famous hot springs and the surrounding forest are still the major draws for tourists.

Location: Garland county, central Arkansas, U.S.

Rankings:

• #2 in Best Relaxing Getaways in the USA
• #7 in Best Places to Visit in August
• #8 in Best Mountain Towns to Visit in the USA
• #9 in Best Cheap Summer Vacations
• #13 in Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• #19 in Best Cheap Family Vacations

Best Things to Do:

• Hot Springs National Park
• Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center
• Lake Ouachita State Park

Best Months to Visit: August to October

This remote Fort Myers outpost is thought to be even more laid-back, serene, and charming than its Gulf Coast neighbor, which is saying a lot. On Sanibel Island, casual is the norm; a shabby chic atmosphere permeates the Periwinkle Way galleries, restaurants, and boutiques; and seashells cover every bit of sand and linoleum.

In reality, this island's (and its smaller sister, Captiva) claim to fame is its profusion of seashells. Any long stretch of sand will have a large number of beachgoers doing the "Sanibel Stoop," as the locals refer it shelling. If the mood strikes you, aim to join them for at least one afternoon during your visit. Sanibel's relaxed people wouldn't have it any other way.

No matter what sort of restaurant you go to, seafood will be on almost every menu because it is a huge hit here. Additionally, there are many alternatives for waterfront and outdoor eating so you may enjoy your meal in Sanibel's pleasant weather.

Location: Lee County, Florida, US

Rankings:

• #3 in Best Relaxing Getaways in the USA
• #3 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #4 in Best Beaches in the U.S.
• #5 in Best Cheap Romantic Getaways
• #7 in Best Places to Visit in Florida
• #7 in Best Cheap Family Vacations

Best Things to Do:

• Bowman's Beach
• Captiva Island
• Periwinkle Way

Best Months to Visit: December to April

The Bush family has been taking vacations at Kennebunkport for years, as any politician can confirm. Additionally, a paparazzi could nudge you to set up camp along Ocean Drive so you can take a hazy shot of the Obamas at their Walker's Point estate. But the town shouldn't even be recognized for housing politicians; that's not even what this southern coastal region of Maine does best.

A natural beach resort with miles of rocky beachfront filled with summer houses and yachts, Kennebunkport is a peaceful seaside paradise. While local artists browse the shops on Dock Square's wharves, the town's fisherman and lobstermen carry the morning's harvest to the outdoor eateries.

Even the beaches are inconspicuous and serene, and you may access them from the road by unmarked trails. You may have really discovered the ideal location to unwind here. Fresh lobster from Maine is unrivaled. Although lobster rolls are a common lunchtime treat, the traditional dish is boiling lobster. Ask for a soft-shell lobster if you're just starting out because it's simpler to break.

Location: Kennebunkport, town, York county, southwestern Maine, U.S.

Rankings:

• #1 in Best Maine Beaches
• #4 in Best Relaxing Getaways in the USA
• #8 in Best Places to Visit in Maine
• #9 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #20 in Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA

Best Things to Do:

• Cape Porpoise
• Kennebunkport Beaches
• Boat tours

Best Months to Visit: June and October

This little island, which is located approximately 30 miles south of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, enjoys its seclusion and attracts upper-class preppies and Northeastern bluebloods seeking a summer getaway. Other guests are also welcome on Nantucket as long as they're prepared to splash out.

Although the cost of lodging and dinnerware is high, some of the most well-liked island activities are affordable. Bluefish, striped bass, and tuna are just a few of the delectable marine species that abounds in Nantucket's seas. You can either go to Great Point Beach and surf cast from the shore or you may rent a boat to go deep-sea fishing.

After all, a trip to Nantucket isn't complete without exploring the island's cobblestone streets on a rented bike or relaxing on the sand with a good book. It's time to leave the continent, so grab your bikini and leave your car at the ferry docks.

Location: about 30 miles (48 km) south of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, U.S., across Nantucket Sound

Rankings:

• #5 in Best Relaxing Getaways in the USA
• #8 in Best Romantic Getaways in the USA
• #8 in Best Weekend Getaways in New England
• #8 in Best Places to Visit in July
• #12 in Best Places to Visit in October
• #15 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #24 in Best Beaches in the U.S.

Best Things to Do:

• Surfside Beach
• Brant Point Light
• Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge

Best Months to Visit: March, April, September and October

Small hotels, vacation rental houses, condominiums, and villas are just a few of the several types of lodgings available on the Isle of Palms. More excellent housing is available in nearby Mount Pleasant. However, you won't get the whole Isle of Palms holiday experience if you remain on the mainland.

This hotel is the ideal option for a break because it provides coastal views and easy access to the beach. The lovely beach town of Isle of Palms, which is less than 10 miles from Charleston, South Carolina, a historic southern metropolis, has long been a well-liked vacation spot. Despite the fact that the area's terrain has altered since then, it has remained popular because of its clean beaches, stunning residences, and limitless recreational opportunities.

A journey to South Carolina's Isle of Palms is a certain way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Rent a comfortable beach cottage to relax in while bodyboarding and sunbathing, or play a friendly round of tennis or volleyball with loved ones. Whatever you decide to do with your days, don't forget to tuck into some of the delectable comfort dishes of the low country for evening.

Location: Charleston County, South Carolina, US

Rankings:

• #6 in Best Relaxing Getaways in the USA

Best Things to Do:

• Go Kayaking
• Enjoy Some Water Sports Or a Boat Tour
• Check Out The Windjammer

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall

Picturesque Carmel Beach in Carmel, California, is renowned for its lovely sunsets and fine, white sand. Spend the day relaxing on your blanket while observing the setting sun while enjoying the warmth of a beach campfire. Bring a picnic lunch and some snacks and drinks.

The beach is also bordered by a picturesque promenade ideal for morning strolls, and Pebble Beach, a golf resort nearby, is a must-play course. A weekend break would be ideal in the walkable hamlet of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Discover hidden tunnels that add intrigue to this already wonderful coastal location, which boasts old houses along alleys surrounded with trees.

You may go to the neighborhood's picturesque beach, browse the shops and art galleries, and eat at a variety of cutting-edge eateries. Any season is a terrific time to visit Carmel since it has year-round sunlight and comfortable temperatures. Visit during the spring for sunny sky and milder temps or during the fall for warmer weather to escape the summer throng. Late fall and early winter offer occasional rain. The peak period lasts from April until October.

Location: Ocean Ave and Scenic Rd Carmel, CA 93923

Rankings:

• #7 in Best Relaxing Getaways in the USA

Best Things to Do:

• Explore The Charming Courtyards And Secret Passageways
• Visit Carmel’s Tasting Rooms
• Walk To Carmel Beach

Best Time to Visit: September - November

Newport, which hugs the southern point of Aquidneck Island in Rhode Island, is a posh weekend getaway for people of all ages. While sailing crews take over Narragansett Bay in preparation for one of the several regattas, girlfriends flutter among the posh stores that line Thames Street.

Like every other coastal town in New England, this port city is glad to provide a straightforward seafood lunch and a day at the beach. But Newport's architecture is what really draws visitors: The colonial-era structures downtown and the 19th-century vacation "cottages" on the sea give the city an Old World, blue-blood look.

Although the super-rich have left their houses available for public tours after leaving, a weekend here will still cost you a hefty coin. The popularity of Newport for vacations for special occasions (such second honeymoons and bachelorette weekends) raises the cost. But the understated elegance of this port town's seaside is certainly worth the extra expense.

Location: Newport county, southeastern Rhode Island, U.S.

Rankings:

• #5 in Best Rhode Island Beaches
• #6 in Best Weekend Getaways in New England
• #8 in Best Relaxing Getaways in the USA
• #10 in Best Cheap Destination Wedding Locations
• #19 in Best Summer Vacations in the USA

Best Things to Do:

• Cliff Walk
• Thames Street
• The Breakers

Best Months to Visit: between March and May and from September to November

For more than a century, the affluent and famous have used this triangle-shaped island, which is located approximately 8 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, as a private summer retreat. Thanks to regular guests like former President Barack Obama, David Letterman, and Bill Murray, among many others, the "Hollywood East" image is still going strong today.

However, despite the island's stellar summer program, a laid-back way of life prevails. The opportunity to let loose for a long weekend is the major attraction luring people to the Vineyard off the ship. You may find astronomically costly restaurants and vacation houses in various areas of the island, such Chilmark.

However, unassuming towns and villages like Vineyard Haven and Menemsha still heavily rely on their maritime industry and provide a more laid-back atmosphere. Even a Black Dog hoodie, the island's must-have souvenir, is casual. Change up your stilettos for your flimsiest flat sandals, and keep your calm if you see any movie stars in Edgartown. After all, everyone deserves a little Vineyard getaway.

Location: Dukes County, Massachusetts

Rankings:

• #3 in Best Weekend Getaways in New England
• #3 in Best Cheap Honeymoons in the U.S.
• #9 in Best Relaxing Getaways in the USA
  
• #12 in Best Romantic Getaways in the USA
• #16 in Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA

Best Things to Do:

• Martha's Vineyard Beaches
• Aquinnah Cliffs
• Oak Bluffs Campground

Best Months to Visit: September to November

The greatest ways to take advantage of this South Carolina vacation spot are to play golf at one of Kiawah Island's numerous picturesque courses and unwind on one of the area's miles-long stretches of sand. Nothing compares to enjoying a nice book or some sunshine while watching the waves lap at the shore. Additionally, those who like the water can kayak or stand-up paddleboard through the nearby waterways.

Unspoiled beaches, a variety of fauna, top-notch golf courses, opulent spas, and dazzling pools may all be found in tropical paradises without having to plan an all-inclusive trip costing more than $1,000. All of that can really be found on Kiawah Island, which is about four and a half hours to the southeast.

Kiawah Island, which lies just off the coast of South Carolina, is renowned for its award-winning golf resort, serene surroundings, family-friendly dining options, and, of course, its 10 miles of stunning beaches. Explore the local animals while kayaking or bicycling along scenic nature paths during the day, or opt to unwind at a peaceful spa. Cocktails may be enjoyed at night by a saltwater pool or on a restaurant terrace with a view of the ocean. Regardless of the experience you select, Kiawah promises a rejuvenating trip that will have you yearning for more.

Location: Charleston County, US

Rankings:

• #10 in Best Relaxing Getaways in the USA

Best Things to Do:

• The Ocean Course
• The Medical Spa at Kiawah
• Biking Nature Trails

Best Months to Visit: December through February