For an entertainment experience that will go into the wee hours, check out the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. This is the only place in the Tampa Bay area that offers table games such as blackjack and baccarat. For the non-gamblers, there is a spa, large pool with surrounding cabanas, various bars and Floyd’s Nightclub.

If you could draw an almost perfect Robinson Crusoe style beach, Dolly would definitely be a contender. Natural food supplies, shelter, and a source of fresh water would keep most castaways happy, and this beach has been known to do just that. As you arrive, especially if you are the first person of the day, you may be drawn to the turtle tracks in the sand. You can follow them until you find the signs of a nest. Both hawksbill and green turtles have been spotted. At the northern end of the beach, the hills are marked by fantastic rock formations with plenty of resident seabirds. More interesting, though, are the sea-level rock pools. Waves crash over the golden-toned, stony reef edges, which doesn't discourage marine life. Red algae and small hard corals paint different colours across the surfaces, while small fish dart about between the pools. Tiny moray eels hunt in ankle-deep water, and if you stay still they will swim up to you. The opposing end of the beach has slightly deeper pools to explore. Depending on the tides, these allow safe, shallow swimming. Going over the rocks to the sea isn't advised, as currents can be strong.

Every year after Easter, Funchal hosts an upbeat, colourful flower festival made possible by its subtropical climate. The city becomes drowned in soft, ephemeral perfumes produced by the many flower walls and carpets made by the locals.

As the site of the first shots fired during the Civil War, Fort Sumter has a strong place in American History. On a boat ride to Fort Sumter, hear about events that led to the War between the states. After an hour touring Fort Sumter, the boat returns back to either of the two departure locations.