The Palmetto State claims some of the loveliest island resorts in the South. Especially glorious is Kiawah Island Golf Resort, south of Charleston. Known for golf and tennis, it's really all about nature. The Ocean Course, designed by Pete Dye and one of five golf courses at the resort, has met Audubon International's strict standards for qualification as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. The resort also protects the endangered loggerhead sea turtle on its miles of unspoiled beach.

above: Picture yourself here, overlooking the pristine sands of Kiawah Island.