North America Action & adventure, Bird, Castles & palaces, Coastal, Gardens & parks + Nature pictures

• World

Hawaii’s “Magic Isle” is known for its terrific beaches, blue water, abundant marine life, the volcanic Haleakalā National Park, quaint towns and scenic drives.

With charm and a beautiful shoreline, this Maui town is filled with fun and unusual attractions worth a daytrip or a lengthy stay.

The big skies welcome visitors for year-round outdoor activities: spring rafting, summer camping, fall hiking and winter skiing.

Cycle, kayak or hike across this picturesque island in the middle of Puget Sound and see some of the amazing local wildlife or taste the fresh organic produce from its soil.

Canada’s oldest national park is a place for adventure-filled getaways and stunning mountain scenery.

This picturesque town bordering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers miles of wilderness, breathtaking scenery and lots of options for adventurers.

Cycle, kayak or hike across this picturesque island in the middle of Puget Sound and see some of the amazing local wildlife or taste the fresh organic produce from its soil.

This oceanfront city in Mississippi offers a wide choice of casinos, popular eco-tourism options and a touching memorial for those affected by Hurricane Katrina.