The Alternative:

Siesta Key, Florida

Siesta Key, located in Sarasota County, is a great alternative to Miami. Home choices range from gracious multi-acre country estates to restored Old Florida homes in downtown neighborhoods. There’s plenty to do, too. Enjoy the gorgeous white sand beaches, dive into the ocean for some snorkeling or charter a boat and enjoy some fishing. When you’re done, grab dinner at one of the many gourmet restaurants and relish the sunset. In addition to have the Nation’s Best Beach, Sarasota County also has some of its best home prices: the median cost of a single family home is $159,000.[ad#in_content_500]