Thirsting for more than the usual backyard cookout this Fourth of July weekend? Check out these 8 Fourth of July weekend beach hotel deals to celebrate our nation’s independence in the sun, sand, and surf this year.

1. 2-for-1 Discount on Turneffe Atoll Adventure Tours in Belize

Take a weeklong Caribbean tour based at the Turneffe Flats Resort to enjoy activities like snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving, dolphin watching, kayaking, and hiking around Turneffe Atoll and Lighthouse Atoll. With this 2-for-1 discount, you’ll save $1028 off the regular price for two people. This offer is only valid for departures between June and August 2010. Click here for more information.

2. Nightly rates Starting at $97 at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa in Fort Myers, Florida

On Fourth of July Weekend, guests at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa can participate in a karaoke contest and a plethora of other activities, including volleyball tournaments, waterslides, live music performances, fireworks cruises, and dive-in movies. Rates start at $97 all summer and Florida residents get a special 15 percent discount. Click here for details.

3. “Red, White, & Boom” Packages Starting at $510 at the TradeWinds Island Resorts in St. Pete Beach, Florida

From July 2-7, 2010, celebrate our nation’s birthday in style at the Island Grand and Sandpiper Suites. Included in the “Red, White, & Boom” package are accommodations for three nights, a buffet for two on Sunday, July 4th, and all of the benefits included in the resort amenity fee. If you decide to extend your stay, you’ll get up to 50% off on July 5-7. For reservations and information, call toll-free (866) JUST LET GO (587-8538) or visit www.JustLetGo.com.

4. Book the Scuba Diving Package at the Small Hope Bay Lodge on Andros Island, Bahamas and Receive 5% Off

A small, family-run resort, Small Hope Bay Lodge is cozy and inviting. In commemoration of its 50th anniversary, Small Hope is offering a 5% discount when you book their 7 day/8day scuba diving package by June 30, 2010. The package includes three scuba diving sessions per day, a night dive, and all amenities. If you ask for the Nassau Airfare Special when you book your package, you’ll also receive free round trip airfare between Nassau and Andros. Click here for further details.

5. Save up to $300 on a Four-Night Stay at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel

After its $50 million renovation, the Loews Miami Beach Hotel is ready to show off its stunning new look. Through September 30th, guests at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel receive a fourth night free and a $100 food & beverage credit. Summer rates start at $199 per night, so this deal translates to savings of up to $300 on a four-night stay. Click here for more information about this package.

6. Get a $50 per night resort credit and Luxury Accommodations for only $159 per night at the Costa d’Este Resort in Vero Beach, Florida

Owned by Gloria and Emilio Estefan, the Costa d’Este Resort in Vero Beach, Florida is one of the top 10 celebrity-owned resorts in the world. Take advantage of the “Sea and Be Scene” package this 4th of July weekend to get luxury accommodations starting at $159 per night, a resort credit of $50 per night, and a $100 voucher good for future stays of two nights or more. The resort credit can be used at the cabana bar, spa, or Oriente, the resort’s Cuban-fusion restaurant. To place a reservation, call 877-562-9919.

7. Kids Stay Free at the All-Inclusive Velas Resorts in Mexico

From June 1st to August 31st, two children 12 and under can stay and eat free when occupying the same room as their parents at the Velas Resorts in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, while children 16 and under can stay and eat free at the Riviera Maya resort. Nightly rates start at $190 at the Velas Vallarta Suite Resort in Puerto Vallarta, $394 at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya, and $425 at the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. Amenities include suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals, a fitness center, a kids’ club, evening entertainment, gratuities, activities for adults and children, and much more. For more information or to make a reservation, please call Velas Resorts at 1-888-323-4294 or visit www.velasresorts.com.

8. Save 15% at the Kalinago Beach Resort in St. George’s, Grenada

The Kalinago Beach Resort in St. George’s, Grenada is offering a 15% discount off of rack rates between June 20th and July 15th. Located on the white sands of Mourne Rouge Beach, the Kalinago Beach Resort boasts luxurious accommodations, panoramic views, and a tranquil atmosphere. Visit www.kalinagobeachresort.com or call 473-444-KALI (5254) for more information about this offer.

.

Many travelers are spending more time this year researching for great deals, such as exploring new travel destinations to find the best bargains, but these are no out-of-the-way hotels. You can receive a free night’s stay in Amsterdam, throughout the Caribbean, or in one of hundreds of other cities.

Through the 22nd of this month, you can find incredible deals on literally hundreds of hotels worldwide. Pay for two nights, get a third free or pay for three nights, get a fourth in cities like Venice, Paris, or Madrid.

Remember, if you plan to travel with your family to Paris, you should never forget to visit Paris Disneyland, which will surely awe the kids and make their stay in Paris a memorable one!