Nat Geo's Picks For Best Beach Towns In America

I know this is ridiculous but I automatically trust anything that National Geographic says to be true.  They are one of the largest nonprofit scientific and educational institutions in the world so when they rank something as simple as "best beach towns" I feel there is some merit behind it!  

Anyone feel the same way?

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First off - I am ALWAYS looking for fantastic beach towns...primarily to relocate too but also for vacations. 

 I can exhaust all my knowledge of the beaches I know off the top of my head but it always comes down to researching on the internet.  Most of the time towns come up that offer miniature golf, boardwalks and tattoo parlors.....NOT what I am looking for in a perfect beach town! 

After taking a look at what National Geographic's staff ranked to be the best of the best, I have agreed with what they consider with them.  MINUS the beach towns in New Jersey....working in the Outer Banks has ruined my entire image of the state....I am going to leave it at that.

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Cannon Beach, Oregon

Haystack Rock

“At only an hour-and-a-half drive away, Cannon Beach was an easy day trip from Portland, where I used to live. With access to scenic hiking trails at Ecola State Park, great views of the towering Haystack Rock (which made a memorable appearance in the 1985 coming-of-age classic The Goonies), and a number of mom-and-pop stores and restaurants, Cannon Beach has a little bit of everything I look for in a beach town.” —Tyler Metcalfe, associate photo producer, National Geographic Travel

It seems that Cannon Beach is one of Oregon's quaintest and picturesque destinations.  With nine miles of shoreline it is perfect for long walks, shelling, observing nature or picking the perfect spot for your family to relax.  The town itself has put in place strict regulations that limit large chain stores or restaurants coming to town so the picturesque charm will always be there.    

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Pawley's Island, South Carolina

“About 70 miles from Charleston, this sleepy retreat is the home of the Pawleys Island hammock, an institution since it was first crafted in the late 1800s—and symbolic of the slow-down-and-hang feeling of the place. Fronting the Atlantic are rustic, sea-blasted cottages, many on stilts and spacious enough to accommodate several families at close quarters. Behind the beach is an inlet bristling with crabs. Tradition here: At night, ride inner tubes from the inlet through a narrow channel to the ocean and stir up the twinkling phosphorescence that trails you like a meteor shower.” —Keith Bellows, editor in chief, National Geographic Traveler

This pick reminds me of the Outer Banks of North Carolina where the beaches are wide, the houses are rustic (some million dollar rustic), everyone knows each other, and people actually appreciate nature.  Yes, hands down this is a FANTASTIC beach town!

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Cayucos, California 

“About halfway between L.A. and San Francisco on California’s often overlooked Central Coast lies the sleepy beach town of Cayucos, noted for its long fishing pier and the irresistible aromas emanating from the Brown Butter Cookie Company. There are thePaso Robles wineries and dormant volcanoes to the west, a beach full of enormous lounging elephant seals to the north near over-the-top Hearst Castle, and iconic Morro Rock looming up out of the ocean to the south. A fun way to get there from L.A. is by Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner: Look out the window and you may see dolphins frolicking in the waves (I did).” —Marilyn Terrell, chief researcher, National Geographic Traveler

Again, I feel that the staff at National Geographic knows how to speak to my soul.  And for all of you who keep up with my blog know that I ADORE the Central Coast of California!  Big Sur holds a very, very special place in my soul.  What is not to love about Cayucos?  With a population is only 2,991 and located on the beautiful Estero Bay it is a complete resort town that will provide relaxation that you cannot get in the California Valley and metropolitan areas.   

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Carmel By The Sea, California

“My sister has a cute bungalow in Carmel. Lucky me, because often when my husband and I go home to California she invites us to spend time there. The beach is ruggedly gorgeous, with tide pools at the northern end adored by her kids. It’s typically too cold to swim, but we like to spread a blanket on the sand and watch the sun fall into the Pacific over a glass of Salinas Valley wine. In the morning, after a run along beachfront Scenic Road to Carmel Mission and back, we stop into Carmel Valley Coffee or—for a splurge—the most amazing French toast smothered in homemade cinnamon maple syrup at Em Le’s. Then it’s off to hike in Point Lobos State Park in search of sea otters and sea lions, admire art in the many galleries on and off Ocean Avenue, or perhaps wine taste in any number of tasting rooms that have popped up around town as we wait again for the sun to set.” —Barbara A. Noe, senior editor, National Geographic Travel Books

Ok ya'll - sign me up and lets move NOW!  Again, its the charm of central California that I love.  

The way Barbara describes her time there is everything I want out of life. 

 Am I there now, no.  

Was I there, yes.  

Why did I move from the beach to a city?  

I have no freaking clue!

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Beaufort, North Carolina

“Beaufort leaves the tattoo parlors and taffy shops to other resort towns. Here you’ll stroll through a historic district of 18th- and 19th-century West Indian-style homes and dine at indie eateries (like Blue Moon Bistro) that serve truly local seafood and veggies. And your beach? It comes with wild horses. The pristine and largely empty sands ofShackleford Banks are a ferry ride away, part of the protected Cape Lookout National Seashore.” —Norie Quintos, executive editor, National Geographic Traveler

Now, I have to say that I am super proud that this sweet seaside village made the cut because it is where I am from.  I grew up 40 minutes away and this was our escape from reality and still is.  When you are there you feel safe, happy, welcomed, and young.  It is a quaint, and perfect town that translates exactly what Eastern North Carolina is.

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Call United Military Travel today to book your next vacation to any of these beaches or your favorite spot!  

866-582-9579

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What is your favorite beach town?  Is it similar to these or is more of a boardwalk town?  I would love to hear from you, leave a comment on where your favorite beach is!

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Photo Of The Day

Photograph by Anup Shah and Fiona Rogers, National Geographic

9 Of The Best FREE Travel Apps

Lets face it - not everyone is going to go off the grid when they vacation.  I personally take my phone with me but try to only call home ONCE while away....its called a vacation for a reason.

But I also recognize that its handy and that a lot of people love having their technology with them at all times.

United Military Travel offers a plethora of travel accessories that can help you access any of these apps.  So when you book your trip with them inquire on how you can get a tablet to go with you on vacation!   

For that reason here is the top 9 Free travel apps

1.  XE Currency Converter

Apple, Android, Blackberry 10, Windows Phone, Windows 8, Firefox OS

Have you ever found yourself in foreign country contemplating buying a momento and wondering if you are getting ripped off?  Trying to do math in your head while getting the stink face from the vendor  is never easy.  This is prime example of when using this handy dandy app would help.  XE Currency Converter allows you to compare over 180 currencies and here is the BEST part of this app...

You can use it OFFLINE because it saves the last available rates!

2. Onavo Extend

Apple, Android

One reason I do not use my phone when traveling is because I am TERRIFIED of the data charges that I may rack up....just to check Facebook - totally not worth it!

This app lets you keep track of your data by using cloud servers to compress the data you use.  I honestly have no idea what that means but I do know that when you compress data you do reduce the quality of images etc.  When surfing the web this app will let you know how much data each page, app, and email will use saving your wallet when you get home.

3.  Around Me

Apple, Android, Windows Phone

I could have used this app when I was driving through California and needed cash.  The only ATM I could find was at a sketchy gas station in a bad neighborhood and it ended up taking $20 from me!  So this app in good domestically and internationally.

Not only does this app locate ATMS but anything else you need/want.  It allows users to browse what is nearby and quickly locates anything from the nearest hospital to bars and coffee shops.  Not only that but it will provide reviews from Yelp and FourSquare users!

4.  TripIt

Apple, Android, Blackberry, Windows Phone 7

If you have ever planned a trip you probably remember the amount of research you did and having to save all the confirmation emails on the bookings you did ahead of time.  This app allows you to organize your entire itinerary by forwarding all your emails to the app.  Along with the organization, you can add notes, phone numbers, confirmation numbers, addresses, etc and can operate with any company you book with.  

5.  WiFi Finder

This app does exactly what the title implies - it finds WiFi in 145 countries with a database of over 890,000 free and pay hotspots.  This is immensely helpful because it can help cut down on data charges and giving you options other than the local coffee shop to surf the web.  Not only that but you can filter your search to what kind of location you are looking for ie. a library, restaurant, park etc. 

6.  TuneIn

Apple, Android, Windows

If you love music this app is for you!  TuneIn allows you to listen to over 100,000 live radio stations from around the world, wherever you are.

7.  Viber

Apple, Android, Blackberry, Windows Phone

This app is great for when you are traveling for a long period of time and make friends or when you have to be in contact with home while away.  It banishes the days of high phone bills from calls and messaging abroad.  It allows you to send messages, pictures and make phone calls to OTHER VIBER USERS wherever they are in the world.  All for free but it will use data so make sure you take use it when connected to WiFi.

8.  Hotel Tonight

Apple, Android, Windows Phone

I personally would use this app because I HATE planning a trip out before I even arrive at my destination.  The way I travel I never know if when I am going to arrive, leave, stay, etc so this is a fantastic app for the sporadic traveler that hates to commit but still wants a well-priced hotel when ready.  Hotel Tonight's last minute options allow you to take advantage of great prices and even book a room up until 2am.  It is available in most large western European cities, as well as Canada, Mexico, and the USA. 

9.  Hostelworld

Apple, Android

Again, another app I would use because I LOVE hostels.  So depending on if I wanted to a little bit of "luxury" I would use Hotel Tonight but if I needed to save money I would use this app.  Its data base has access to over 35,000 properties in 180 countries with 3.5 million reviews so this simple app lets you track down cheap, high-quality hostel dorms with little fuss!

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Photo Of The Day

Photograph by Logan Watts, National Geographic Your Shot

5 Free Things To Do In Miami!

Get to know Miami on a personal level with these free activities!

1.  Art

On Viernes Culturales (Cultural Fridays), Little Havana's Calle Ocho turns into an open air gallery with hundreds of artists and musicians filling the sidewalks for your enjoyment!  It happens the last Friday of every month from 6:30pm to 11:00 pm and is free of charge.  It also includes a walking tour of Little Havana.

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Also, head over to the Wynwood Art District and Design District - they are Miami's up-and-coming art scene that produces a ton of eclectic energy! Every second Saturday of the month to take advantage of the later gallery hours to view the posh showrooms and vanguard designers for free! 

2. Attractions

Cruise down to 1116 Ocean Drive and pause at the Versace Mansion to see where Italian fashion designer once hosted lavish parties for glamorous guests like Madonna, Elton John, and Princess Diana.  Versace was also shot to death on the steps of the mansion in 97'. 

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After that check out the JFK Torch of Friendship that is accompanied by statues of Simon Bolivar and Ponce de Leon which affirms the United State's relationship with the nations of the Caribbean and South and Central America, and also honors JFK.

3.  Culture

Take a free tour of the World of Bacardi Museum and discover the corporate and family history of this world famous rum, which began in 1862.  Tours are free but appointments are required.   

4. Kids

The Miami Children's Museum offers, Target Free Third Friday, which allows kids to explore hundreds of hands-on exhibits that teach art, culture, and communication absolutely free.  Head over on the third Friday of each month from 3to 9pm.  

5.  Outdoors

Other than the obvious beaches check out...

Biscayne National Park for snorkeling and scuba diving along the colorful coral reef.  Or you can stay on the shore and look for dolphins and manatees.  Others boat, fish, watch wildlife, and meander via canoe through one of Florida's longest stretches of mangrove forest.  Family Fun Fest is a FREE program held on the second Sunday of each month.  

Best of 50!

Well, I have officially written 50 blogs for United Military Travel!

*My first blog...

*My first milestone...

<Here is a recap of the most popular posts> 

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1. Military Travel Loans to the Outer Banks, North Carolina 

Part 2 Carova to Duck

This post comes in with a whopping 66 page views!

My favorite quote of the post:

4 insider tips of Corolla:

1. Never grocery shop on a Saturday or Sunday and if you have to do it late at night.

2. When getting food from Lighthouse Bagels - call ahead when you can.

3. If it rains, do not attempt to leave Corolla.  Have a family day instead.

4.  Always, always pick up after yourself - respect the natural surroundings.

2.  My Six Months in the Last Frontier

51 page views!

My favorite quote of the post:

When I think about my time in Alaska just a smile crosses my face and I never try to describe it because no one can understand, expect for the people I shared it with. 

 For anyone who has visited The Last Frontier shares a common bond with others who have done the same.  Its like an unofficial club where everyone understands each other just by saying "I have been there too".

 We all are blessed with an unfaltering sense of accomplishment that lasts a lifetime.

3.  California - The Golden State - Part 1 of 3

44 page views!

My favorite quote of the post:

Back at the property we grilled steaks and bacon wrapped scallops underneath the safety of the beloved tree and drank wine under the stars; we told stories, made art, danced, and sang.  This one night trip to Napa Valley was one of the most memorable and life inspiring trips we have taken yet!

4.  A Word To The Wise

42 page views!

My favorite quote of the post:

It is always a pain when you travel internationally and you have to convert your currency.  Are you getting a fare rate?  Are you getting ripped off?  Can you convert quickly in your head when out and about?  So many times travelers lose more money than the item they are buying is worth because they do not know the exchange rate.

5.  Top Honeymoon Destinations 

41 page views!

My favorite quote of the post:

Ever since I was a little girl, my honeymoon was something dreams were made out of.  I think the destination changed at least 100 times but the one thing that stayed constant was that it was a going to be a BIG trip.  

Hopefully, you will only have one honeymoon in your lifetime and I believe that you should make it everything you have ever dreamed of. 

United Military Travel sends a lot of couples of their dream honeymoons each year.  It is something they are skilled in so the best advice I can give you to help off set the expenses is take out a travel loan that will allow you to pay it back over time.

6.  2014 Top Rate All - Inclusive Resorts

40 page views!

My favorite quote of the post:

What is important to you when booking a vacation?  

Is it this:

 An all-inclusive resort is a holiday resort that includes a minimum of three meals daily, soft drinks, most alcoholic drinks, gratuities, and possibly other services in the price. Many also offer sports and non-motorized watersports and other activities that are included in the price as well.

If so then check out this years most coveted all-inclusive resorts to help plan your next vacation through United Military Travel.

7.  Why Do You Travel

40 page views!

Favorite quote of the post: 

Everyday, especially today, I am all about life. 

8.  United Arab Emirates - What You Need To Know Before You Go

40 Page Views!

My favorite quote of the post: 

Their rules and laws...aka how to NOT get arrested on vacation :)
The most common laws visitors need to follow:
1. No kissing, No touching - Holding hands may be OK, but kissing and petting is NOT 

9.  Traveling with young children - the joys, the necessities and the hassles. 

38 page views!

My favorite quote of the post:

Just the thought of traveling with babies and toddlers can be scary and could be enough to stop you from booking your trip.  But who deserves a get away more than you?  With a little knowledge and preparation, your much needed vacation could go over without a hitch! 

 Also, do you think its fair to leave the little ones at home?  They may not have a 9-5 but in their world a break from the norm could work wonders on them too. 

10.  Treehouse Hotels and Lodges 

37 page views!

“TREE HOUSE

A tree house, a free house, a secret you and me house, a high up in the leafy branches cozy as can be house. a street house, a neat house, be sure to wipe your feet house. Is not my kind of house at all- Let's go live in a tree house.” Shel Silverstein, Where the Sidewalk Ends