Alternative Beach Accommodations For Extraordinary Trips

Overwater Bungalows — InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa (Photo: IHG/InterContinental Hotels Group)

Some of us are drawn to the ocean like a moth to a flame, and finding the right accommodations can present several issues. Will it fit in my budget? Will I have to fight for prime beach real estate? Will I have to fix my own meals? Here are several different ways to be close to the water without sacrificing your overall needs. From camping to sleeping under the sea, there’s something for everyone who loves the water.

Seaside Villa

The word "villa" usually conjures romantic images of a stunning house somewhere in Europe, especially with so many in Italy overlooking the water. There are many reasons to stay in an Italian villa. Some villas accommodate fairly large numbers perfect for a family reunion, others offer a private pool, and still others simply give you a taste of the European lifestyle for a week or so. You can find a slew of websites to rent such a property, but be sure to do your research. Though villas can be pretty pricey, they can be worth every penny if you find what you're looking for.

(Photo: iStockphoto)

Seaside Villa

(Photo: iStockphoto)

Overwater Huts

You may not be able to walk on water, but that doesn't mean you can't sleep above it. Overwater huts give you the opportunity to listen to the ocean right beneath your bed. Though you can find them all over the world, French Polynesia has the widest selection, including the Moorea Pearl Resort and Spa, where you can rent one of their 28 overwater bungalows that start at $547 per night.

(Photo: Tahiti Tourism)

Underwater Hotel

If you're looking to go beyond ocean views and sandy beaches, then staying in an underwater hotel may be right up your alley. There are very few places in the world where you have to use scuba gear before settling down for the night, but at the Jules' Undersea Lodge in Key Largo, you better be ready to dive into the deep. This underwater research habitat is also available for everyday people who want to sleep in the ocean. Overnight stays start at $375 per person.

(Photo: Jules' Undersea Lodge)

Art Deco Hotel

When it comes to Art Deco, Miami has the market cornered on brightly colored and odd shaped buildings. Ocean Drive is the perfect place to spend your days playing in the sand, and your nights dancing in a club. Staying on Ocean Drive can be a bit pricey, especially for stays at some of the newer luxury-boutique hotels. However, you can save and still have sweeping views of the water at the Park Central, located across the street from the beach. Rooms start $101 per night during low season.

(Photo: PhotoDisc)

Private Island

If you can't escape to your own private island, you can at least pretend at Peter Island Resort in the British Virgin Islands. The resort is located on an 1,800 acre island far from any reminders of daily life. Here, you can be completely secluded on a beach, explore the land, and swim in crystal-clear waters. Rooms start at $325 during the low season, and include all meals.

(Photo: Peter Island Resort)

All-inclusive Resort

When it comes to taking a vacation from everyday life, including daily tasks such as cooking dinner, an all-inclusive resort makes it easy to just kick back and enjoy. And Atlantis is the mother of all resorts, where you can relax by the pool or on the beach while the staff takes care of everything else. There's rarely a dull moment at Atlantis, as the resort offers a range of activities for all ages. Package deals may be the way to go, as they typically take the legwork out of planning, and are usually cheaper.

(Photo: John Madere)

Camping

What could be more peaceful than sleeping under the stars while listening to the sound of waves lapping against the shore nearby? If this sounds like your idea of heaven, then camping is the choice for you. There are campsites close to or actually on the beach in state parks all over the country. And, if you head north of the border to Cape Breton Island, where you'll find one of the most scenic drives in the world, you can choose from several campsites overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Ingonish and Broad Cove campsites offer close proximity to the beach, and you can camp for only $24.50 CAD (about $24.50 U.S.; check XE.com for current exchange rates) per night.

(Photo: Destination Cape Breton Association)

Lighthouse

If you've ever dreamed of manning a lighthouse, you can do the next best thing and spend the night in one. With several converted lighthouses around the country, you can pretend that you're sending out the warning signal to lost ships at sea before snuggling in for the evening. Though the West Point Lighthouse on Prince Edward Island is no longer operating, it still offers a similar experience, with nine beachside rooms to choose from. Seaside rooms start at $115 CAD per night.

(Photo: West Point Lighthouse Museum, Inn and Restaurant)

Beach Bed and Breakfast

Imagine having your morning cup of coffee and a freshly made breakfast as you sit just steps from rolling waves. This is just one of the many joys of staying in an oceanside B&B, and it's rare to find one much closer to the water than the Popham Beach Bed and Breakfast in Phippsburg, Maine. While staying here, you can enjoy the six miles of sandy beach right outside the inn's front door. Rooms start at $140 per night, and include a three-course breakfast.

(Photo: Popham Beach Bed & Breakfast)

Cottage Rental

If your idea of a vacation consists of staying in a private cottage on an island, then look no further than Nantucket. This New England island offers the best of both worlds with its quaint downtown area filled with shops and fine dining, and miles of white, sandy beaches. Cottages typically rent by the week, and can start at about $750. This can be the perfect getaway for those who want to escape from it all, and be completely self-sufficient.

(Photo: iStockphoto)

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