Home on the beach

Lora Kennedy—whose hits include "Wonder Woman" and "Argo"—has fond memories of her grandparents' Bradenton Beach vacation home.

Before you book your getaway, make sure you read our travel guide to Laguna Beach featuring where to stay & where to enjoy the best meals in the OC.

This classic beach home is one of the islands most charming accommodations. Walk in the front door and immediately become one with the beach as you take in the panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico. The home offers 10 foot ceilings, crown molding, spacious tile baths, granite and marble counters and

Across from Carmel Beach and a short stroll to town, this restored 1929 M.J. Murphy Mediterranean home with unobstructed ocean views from three-levels is a rare gem for the very discerning. The diligent and inspired renovation retained the original mahogany doors, S & S tile, metalwork, hardware, fixtures & fireplaces, wherever possible, with careful architectural and

We find the little, under-the-radar hotels that will give you a fresh perspective on the islands - and often cost less than £150 a night