Fort Lauderdale delivers the best of both worlds— beach basking and glitzy cosmopolitan appeal. From serene Hugh Taylor Birch State Park to the buzzing Boardwalk of Hollywood (that’s Florida, not California), there’s a stretch of sand for every style of beachgoer. And jumbo yachts roam more than 300 miles of waterways in this “Venice of America.” Hitch a ride on the free Water Taxi or cruise on the Jungle Queen Riverboat before or after your Fort Lauderdale cruise. Head to the historic Stranahan House for a glimpse into Fort Lauderdale’s history and be sure to hit its modern-day backyard: the people-watching mecca of Las Olas Boulevard.

This isn’t vacation days spent. This is bragging rights earned. Conquer the tallest waterslide in North America and snap a shot from up to 450 feet up in a helium balloon. Grab a drink at the swim-up bar and soak up the scene in the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas. Or get a taste of Bora Bora with your own Overwater Cabana.

With all the heart of a Central American country and all the soul of a Caribbean isle, Belize and its bustling cruise port city open the door to a nation ripe for exploration. Here you can choose your adventures— from trekking ancient Maya ruins to snorkeling the Belize Barrier Reef that teems with colorful fish and unforgettable coral formations. During your cruise to Belize, hike rainforest trails and take a zipline through lush treetops. Or hop on an inner tube and float through spectacular limestone caves and past tumbling waterfalls along the network of rivers flowing to the Caribbean. Divers and snorkelers come here from all over to explore the world’s second-largest barrier reef, and the famous Great Blue Hole. And along the 200-mile-long coastline, you’ll find hundreds of tiny islets called cayes (pronounced “keys”).

Past meets present in Costa Maya. Cruise to Costa Maya and find ancient Maya ruins and mysterious jungles just begging to be explored, as well as private beach clubs and trendy restaurants— all in one place. It’s 250 square miles of paradise packed with entertainment and history, all just 30 miles south of Cancun. The Great Maya Reef just off the coast is the second largest in the world— it’s a must-snorkel spot. Or you can kick back at the port village of Mahahual with an ice-cold michelada— a spicy beer cocktail— in hand. For a culture fix, head to the Kohunlick ruins to see the famous Temple of the Masks.

 

If you’re planning on taking a snorkeling excursion, make sure to bring organic sunscreen— it’s a federal regulation.