Rocky Point is what the Americans call Puerto Penasco, Mexico. Only 60 miles south of the Arizona border, it is a popular vacation destination for those living in the Southwest. The tide rolls in and out on the Sea of Cortez, providing a great place to play and relax. The active traveler has plenty of opportunites to try kite-surfing, parasailing, horseback riding, sailing, diving or riding an ATV followed by an evening of dancing. The traveler seeking ultimate relaxation can experience soothing spa treatments or just laying on the beach listening to the waves. The water is quite shallow, providing plenty of opportunity for shell seekers. Most of the accomodations are condo rentals and many visitors bring all their own food, but the downtown area provides plenty of restaurant options. Currently, passports are not required to travel from the U.S. to Rocky Point.

http://www.cometorockypoint.com/

http://www.sonoranseacondo.com/

On Long Beach Island at Brant Beach, New Jersey is an unexpected boutique hotel called Daddy O. I visited during an unusual heatwave and found this modern, yet retro 22-room hotel to be delightful. The contemporary rooms had a flat-screen TV and a wireless connection for checking in with reality. For checking out of reality, the beach is just a block in one direction, while the bay is a block in the other direction. While the rooms were fine, it was the bathroom that I will remember. Hotel bathrooms are not often memorable, but Daddy O’s bathroom was luxurious after a day out in the sun and sand. The rain shower in the marble bath soothed both body and soul. The large sink provided plenty of room for rinsing out beachwear. The shampoo, body wash and lotion were high-end offerenigs with terrific aromatherapy to fill the senses. The hotel also has a full bar and contemporary restaurant, along with a store selling liquor and packaged goods right in the building. Did I mention the rooftop deck?

Daddy O is open year-round and provides a great escape anytime. Find Daddy O at 4401 Long Beach Blvd, Brant Beach, NJ 08008. Phone: 609-361-5100. http://www.daddyohotel.com/