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By: Joan Tupponce
The gentle rhythm of waves kissing the shoreline lures many fall vacationers to quiet beaches and shore-front getaways. Autumn is a great time to visit the beach when the crowds of summer are only a distant memory. Pleasant temperatures and sunny days give way to comfortable evenings and tranquil nights. Relaxation is always top-of-mind, especially when you choose a beach location that is untouched by modernization. Most beachfront locations offer savings during the fall, making a beach weekend simple and affordable. You can find the perfect location, everything from the rugged, picturesque seascapes of New England to the wide sandy beaches of the New Jersey shore; from popular escapes such as Ocean City, Maryland and Virginia Beach, Virginia to the peaceful sands of North and South Carolina. The temperate climate at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina makes it a perfect destination for everything from bird watching and exploring the wooded trails of Hopsewee Plantation to walking the white sand beaches and taking time to savor the dazzling sunsets. Fall is a great time to tee off at one of the more than 100 golf courses along the Grand Strand. Many East Coast beaches sit adjacent to state parks and national wildlife refuges like Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge at Virginia Beach which offers self-guided or guided kayak or canoe tours. Visits to these types of destinations are as educational as they are enjoyable. During this unhurried time of year, you'll find beach getaways that include a variety of accommodations, everything from ocean-front rental homes to condos, hotels, motels and inns. If you'd rather trade the sand and sun for a relaxing massage, plan to visit one of the hundreds of spas scattered throughout the region. Once considered an indulgence solely for the wealthy, spas are now mainstream, accounting for more and more vacation dollars. These quiet sanctuaries allow you to de-stress and relax while being pampered and soothed. Treatments are wide ranging, including everything from manicures and massages to body wraps and facials. You can incorporate the scents of fall such as apple and pumpkin into your next spa visit. Did you know that pumpkin is known for its anti-aging, detoxifying, energizing and nourishing benefits for the skin? Commonly used in facial treatments, it is one of the most popular ingredients for the skin this fall. Look for other unique spa treatments that utilize the products of the season such as pumpkin body lotion, apple butter body scrubs and cranberry toners, to name a few. If you're a chocolaholic, you probably don't care what season it is as long as the season contains chocolate. Diehards like you will enjoy the chocolate fondue wrap or the cocoa massage at The Spa at The Hotel Hershey in Hershey, Pennsylvania. On your next vacation, check out the extras that spas have to offer. Many spas today are offering auxiliary services such as lifestyle classes, yoga and meditation as well as lessons on how to balance and manage stress. Pampering is in, so check it out. |