Fly-in Summer Escapes: Pack your beach all, sun screen and towel; we're headed to the shore!
by Jan Gerner
The Inn at Perry Cabin St. Michaels,  Maryland
This sprawling colonial mansion overlooks the Miles River and the Chesapeake Bay. Many of the 81 individually-furnished guest rooms and suites have fireplaces, and all have an assortment of antiques. Built just after the War of 1812, the Inn has been a private residence, a working farm, and a riding academy.
The Inn at Perry Cabin in the charming town of St. Michaels is 12 miles from the Easton Airport (KESN). If the resort is not too busy, they will send someone for you. Otherwise you can rent a car or hire a cab ($20-25).
When you arrive, you will be immediately transported from the hustle and bustle of modern day life to a calmer, slower pace. Lovers of history, nature, and architecture will enjoy the quaint town. Complimentary bikes are available to guests and are a great way to get out and explore the tree lined streets. Colonial, Federal, and Victorian homes steeped in history will make you feel like you've stepped back in time.
You won't find Burger King, Taco Bell, McDonald's or any fast food chains here, something the locals are quite proud of. This town is about crabs, oysters, fish, and t he bounty of the Bay. And you can't leave town without trying some of that bounty.
The Inn can arrange for you to get out on the Bay if you desire. Try crabbing, fishing, oystering, or sail back into maritime history on a Skipjack.
After a busy day on the Bay, settle in for a gourmet meal at the Inn's award winning restaurant and be sure to sample the chef's special salad dressings.
Cape Santa Maria Beach Resort Long Island, South Bahamas
White sand beaches, turquoise water, and Bahamian charm are waiting for visitors to Cape Santa Maria on Long Island. Fly into one of the two airstrips on the northern part of the island and, with the exception of certain blackout dates, get a 15-percent discount on your stay.
Stella Maris Airport was scheduled to reopen this month with a new 4200-foot blacktop surface. This is a port of entry for pilots. It's a short ten minute, $24 cab ride to the resort. If you've cleared customs elsewhere, the 2100' private runway at the Cape Santa Maria airstrip is ideal for small planes. The resort will pick you up for the one mile ride.
The beach-front bungalows and villas are just steps away from the Caribbean Sea. Here you can relax on your private patio, enjoy the gentle trade winds and watch for the green flash as the sun sets.
Beach activities and gentle trade winds make for a good combination. Get out on the water or comb the four-mile stretch of sugar-white sand. Who knows what treasures have washed up on shore waiting to be discovered?
Reefs, wrecks, walls, and one of the world's deepest blue holes make Long Island a world-class diving destination. Not certified? The resort's expert dive master will remedy that and have you face to face with fish, rays, sea turtles, and colorful corals.
Arrange an island excursion by bike (free to guests) or by car to explore the natural beauty and contrasting landscapes of this rugged, remote island. To the east, you'll find limestone cliffs and caves carved by the rolling Atlantic waves; to the west, pristine beaches, peaceful coves and the crystal clear waters of the Great Bahama Bank.
In 1492, Christopher Columbus described Long Island as "the most beautiful island in the world." Today, you can climb the Christopher Columbus monument and envision Chris rowing into the calm lagoon searching for fresh water.
Bahamian cuisine meets continental cuisine at the Cape Santa Maria Beach House Restaurant and Oceanside Bar. Conch, lobster, and grouper are among the specialties. Don't expect to find crowds at this tiny seaside resort. Do expect total relaxation, tropical tranquility, friendly locals, and beautiful island scenery.
The Inn at Harbor Town Sea Pines Resort Hilton Head, South Carolina
Southern hospitality and elegance are the order of the day for guests at the Inn at Harbor Town Sea Pines Resort.
The Hilton Head Island Airport (KHXD) is a 15 minute ride by cab ($15-20) or rental golf cart. Sea planes can be accommodated in the Harbor Town Yacht Basin depending on wing span and available space.
The Inn offers 60 rooms with around-the-clock butler service to ensure a comfortable stay for each and every guest. Most activities are within easy walking distance of the Inn. Take a leisurely stroll down to Harbor Town Yacht Basin. Climb the lighthouse to get a panoramic view of the island and Calibogue Sound. Walk along the full-service marina and marvel at mega-yachts. Listen to a concert under ancient Liberty Oak and shop trendy boutiques and art galleries.
With 15 miles of trails and hard-packed sand beaches, this is the perfect spot to rent a bike and explore. Child seats are available for the younger set. Equestrians will enjoy the Lawton Stables, and nature lovers will want to tour the Sea Pines Nature Center and Forest Preserve. Take a cruise on the jungle safari boat and you might catch a glimpse of an American alligator in its natural habitat.
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