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So here we are in the dog days of summer....and it seems that this year has brought a plague of clammy humidity to the East Coast; record-breaking temperature to the Southwest and California, and even Oregon and Washington state have witnessed record heat this past June and July.
It would seem that now is the time to seriously consider an August getaway to the cooler climes along the ocean coastline or beaches. And it's so easy to pack for a weekend getaway by the beach.....casual, lightweight shorts and skirts, pull-over tops and light sweaters, flip-flops or Birkenstocks.
Pack your bags and consider heading for one of these magnificent beach destinations to revive your energy and let yourself enjoy the beauty of the outdoors:
1. 
Gulf Shores, AL Gorgeous white sand and great hotels and restaurants along the coast.
2. 
Coronado Beach, San Diego, CA Such a wonderful beach, quiet, good waves and nice white sand. It's famous Hotel de Coronado is amazing and the tide pools and rocks are neat for kids. Good food & even better ice cream at the Creamery.
3. 
Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota, FL The weather and the people are consistently beautiful, but the real attraction here is the sand and the sense of tranquility.
4. 
Jekyll Island, GA Think peaceful mornings, endless stretches of beach, driftwood, long sunset walks.
5. 
Gray's Lake Park & Beach Boating, free Yoga Saturday mornings, wonderful picnic areas, camping.
6. 
Waikiki Beach Who would complain about any beach in the Hawaiin Islands? This is a great spot for surfing, and there is also a calmer side to the water by an inlet which is perfect for spending the day and just floating on the cool ocean waves.
7. 
Lake Coeur d'Alene, ID Go to the corner of Sherman Ave and Coeur d'Alene Lake Drive and drive south on CDA Lake Drive all the way to Higgins Point. Great drive & walking trail, both with beautiful views of the lake.
8. 
North Avenue Beach, Chicago, IL Definitely a fun beach to bring a big group of friends. Looking for a more peaceful spot? Head to your left at the end by Fullerton ave. Perfect space to read or meditate!
9. 
Washington Park Beach, Michigan City, IN Make sure you get pictures at sunset of the pier. Go exsplore the lighthouse. Discover the excellent restaurants located nearby. Bring your boat to this marina.
10. 
Assateague Island National Seashore, Berlin, MD The wild horses that swim from Chincoteague Island to Asseaatgue each year are a major tourist attraction. If you enjoy wildlife, walking/hiking/biking, amazing views and a quality beach, plan a trip to Assateague. The Federal and National State Park Systems do an incredible job of preserving the beauty of this unique area.
11. 
Lake Harriett, MN Parks and Recreation offer many boating and water classes, very well-maintained biking paths. Try to find the "Elf" house at the base of a tree. Check out the Malt Shop!
12. 
Jockey's Ridge State Park, Nags Head, NC A hidden gem in the Outer Banks Region of NC. Spend the day flying kites, or taking in the scenic views. Enjoy this beautiful area at dusk, a clam bake, or just watching the long sunsets. This is a wonderful destination beach for al fresco dinners or lunches on the beach.
13. 
Sand Harbour State Park, Incline Village, NV Beautiful sunsets over Lake Tahoe and the Sierras. Enjoy the Shakespeare Festival in July/August. Go have lunch at Thunderbird. Plenty of kayaking and rentals. Hiking/biking are also a must here!
