Bathtub, Florida

A very popular beach, and deservedly so, since a small reef (created not by coral, but by sand-eating worms!) about 100 feet offshore creates a lagoon of shallow warmer water, perfect for swimming. Behind the beach there is a wooden boardwalk, which leads to the nearby dune and river trails.

Also worth a visit is the nearby Elliot museum, set-up in the early 1900s. Favorites at the museum include a 1920s dining room, an old-time country store, and a large collection of vintage and veteran cars.

Another nearby attraction is the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center, which is very child-friendly - the little ones will love the 'touch' pool.