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    U.S. Gulf Coast

    After the devastating 2010 BP oil spill, concerns that the Gulf Coast faced irreparable damage thwarted tourism to the region. Thankfully, the area has been recovering, and once again travelers are flocking to the warm, tranquil waters and sandy, white coastline.

    Visitors can take their pick of the region's spoils — from Florida's windswept sand dunes and quirky beach towns to Mississippi's casinos and Louisiana's Cajun-Creole cuisine.

    As sights of beach volleyball games and kids frolicking in the Gulf's turquoise water become common in beach towns like Pensacola Beach, Fla., and Gulf Shores, Ala., it's clear the so-called "Redneck Riviera" has regained its status as a popular, family-friendly beach vacation spot.