What to expect: Tucked away in a very secluded enclave of Longboat Key, the resort is set along an 800-foot-long white-sand beach bordering the azure Gulf of Mexico. Three-story buildings arrayed in clusters along the shore house the one- and two-bedroom suites. Vacationing couples and families are attracted to the resort’s top-seeded tennis facilities, sandy beach, and activities for all ages.

Amenity highlights: Tennis magazine has rated Colony Beach Resort the No. 1 tennis resort in the nation for eight consecutive years: 1996–2004. The resort offers 21 hard and clay courts, complimentary court time, 10 instructors, clinics, round robins, and even a Tiny Tots Tennis program for children 6 and under. An outdoor pool overlooks the Gulf of Mexico. Beach activities include volleyball, windsurfing, kayaking, and boogie boarding.

The Arctic Algae Body Treatment, the Fresh Air Oxygen Facial, Swedish massage, and more are available at the resort’s spa.

Insider tip: St. Armands Circle, known for fine dining, entertainment, and designer shops in a tropical setting, attracts visitors from around the world. Jazz concerts are presented here regularly. Located less than four miles from the resort, it’s a great place to see and be seen.

What to expect: Located on the exclusive barrier island of Longboat Key just off the coast of Sarasota, The Hilton Longboat Key Beachfront Resort is nestled beneath Banyan trees along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Guests enjoy watching bottled-nose dolphins off-shore, as well as the resident wading birds. Miles of white sand border the waters of the Gulf.

Amenity highlights: The resort offers complimentary transportation to the 114 upscale shops and restaurants of St. Armand’s Circle, just five minutes away. Guests can swim in the beachfront heated pool, relax in the 21-person outdoor spa tub, or enjoy a variety of water sports on the beach. Kayak, waverunner, and catamaran rentals are available on site, weather permitting. The resort can assist groups in planning off-site activities.

Insider tip: A walking/jogging/biking path located across the drive from the resort follows Gulf of Mexico Drive for the length of Longboat Key.