4 hot vacations at cool prices

In terms of Mexican beach destinations, there are the obvious three Cs - Cancún, Cozumel and Los Cabos. But a less touristy, and therefore less pricey, alternative has emerged in what's being dubbed the Riviera Nayarit, a 100-mile stretch of Pacific coast just north of Puerto Vallarta.

The Riviera maintains the flavor of the "real" Mexico that's rare in the three Cs. Here roadside markets offer homemade candies and juices. Farmers transport produce via mules. And Mexican families congregate on the beaches, listening to Tejano music on portable stereos.

Make like a local in the fishing village Bucerias, the bohemian surfing town of Sayulita, or tiny San Francisco. These communities offer quality beaches with whale watching and snorkeling - and without a crush of Americans. But go now because 30 resorts will be built here in the next five years, says Erica Duecy, restaurants and hotels editor at Fodor's.

Where to stay: Duecy recommends the intimate B&B Casa Obelisco. It's in walking distance of the beach and Sayulita. Rates start at $225. Another option: Villa Amor, a resort that overlooks the ocean. Rates start at $110 a night.