South Goes Down to the Sea

From shell-strewn beaches to fun-filled cities, water's edge holds the promise of relaxation, recreation, and discovery.

The Southern coast wears a thousand faces. It's a secluded beach washed by waves rolling in like liquid silver, a sophisticated port city welcoming the world, a quaint little fishing village, and a lively teen hangout that never grows old.

BEST OF DELAWARE

* Beaches: Like fraternal twins, two coastal towns share characteristics yet have different personalities. Bethany Beach is quiet, while Rehoboth plays to the resort crowd.Visit www.bethanyfenwick.org and www.beach-fun.com.

* Birding: Two of the best sites in the Mid-Atlantic region lie on the western shore of Delaware Bay. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge near Smyrna, (302) 653-6872; Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge near Milton, (302) 684-8419.

From sand to seafood, Ocean City packs a powerful vacation punch.

* On the boardwalk: Stroll the 3-mile-long boardwalk, where you can ride the Tidal Wave Roller Coaster, and savor an ice-cream cone from Dumser's Dairyland.

* Just for two: Get cozy at the Lighthouse Club hotel, a romantic 23-room inn. Ask for a room with a bay view; 1-888-371-5400 or www.fagers.com.

* For more: 1-800-626-2326.

WINDOWS ON THE CHESAPEAKE

The largest estuary in the United States, the Chesapeake Bay stretches for some 200 miles, with lovely towns and lively cities lining its shores.

* Annapolis: Don't miss Maryland's State House, the oldest state capitol building in continuous legislative use in the country. For more: www.visitannapolis.org.

* Baltimore: Begin with the National Aquarium at the Inner Harbor; then shop at Harborplace. Hop aboard a water taxi to Fort McHenry, or take in a game at Oriole Park at Caniden Yards. For dinner, head to Aldo's Ristorante Italiano in Little Italy. For more: toll free 1-877-225-8466 or www.baltimore.org.

* Hampton Roads area: Norfolk shares a maritime history with five other cities. Try the interactive exhibits at Nauticus, The National Maritime Center. Slip over to the Mariners'Museum in Newport News; then soak up some sun along the 3-mile boardwalk in Virginia Beach. For more: Norfolk Convention & Visitors


by Lingo, Karen