My husband and I have seen enough of the Carolina, Georgia, and Florida coasts throughout the past several years (with the exception of the Florida panhandle - we haven't been there.) We're trying to think of a warm-weather destination that would provide us with new sights and activities. We love all kinds of less commercial, area attractions - lighthouses, historic homes, public gardens. We seldom take the time to swim, but we love to see the water (we're midwesterners). We're wondering about Alabama or Louisiana. Would either of these be a good choice for mid-to-late spring? Any other suggestions would also be appreciated.

I don't know what region of the country you'd prefer, if you want to stay primarily with southern states or want other places in the United States, but one of our absolute favorite coastal areas in the Northern California coast from Point Reyes(above San Francisco) to Mendocino. It is absolutly georgous and with all of the features you mentioned that you like in a trip. You could go to any search engine (like Yahoo) and find lots of information on these places. Another wonderful little town along the way is Elk. Sleepy little town with some shops, but its claim to fame--Oh, the beach and the glorious views!
One note: the summer is the foggy season.

My vote would be for Louisiana. We've been there 5 times (we're from Northern Calif.) and want to return again.
We usually stay in New Orleans for 5 days in a quiet part of the Quarter (on Chartres St.). Besides a paddle boat ride, there's so much to see & do. There's the aquarium (well done),zoo, historic buildings, museums, walking tours, and a very nice art museum.
After 5 days, we've explored Cajun country. Stopping at Jefferson Island (lovely garden, fascinating history) and Avery Island, then on to Lafayette.
We've also gone to Baton Rouge, stopping in St. Francisville to tour historic homes. Don't miss Rosedown - marvelous gardens.

Thank you for your replies. I suppose that I should have been a bit more specific regarding our time and distance limitations. Since we only have a week and we're going to be driving on this trip, we need to limit our range to the south-central, south-eastern, or eastern coasts. Nevertheless, I very much appreciate the input on the northern California coast. In fact, we're planning a two-week celebratory trip to that region in the next 12-15 months, when I finally complete the last requirements of a long-term professional licensing process. I'll be sure to investigate the areas that tcapp mentioned. In the meantime, it sounds like suzy thinks that New Orleans and Cajun country would be a good choice this spring. I can look up some other threads on where to eat and sleep. Thanks again!

I REALLY agree with suzie--
especially out of New Orleans area--
tour a plantaion, go out in the bayou country . It seems like the "real" Louisiana. Avery Island area is interesting--Tabasco factory is "hot"
(excuse the pun) North of there is
Rip Van Wrinkle Garden-(original owner played RVW in plays of the past.) beautiful old plantation type house with gardens. Connected to some out buildings and a nice cafe and some historical stuff about a hugh underground salt mine that collapsed years ago. Well documented and interesting..
New Iberia is fairly close and has the beautiful southern home--"Shadows on the Tesch" (sp??) great lunch--reservations needed.
Florida panhandle along the coast is nice although can be crowded-we like Fort Walton Beach area, but Port St Joe is great AND St. George Island. Not sure of lodging on the island because we stayed with relatives. It is a small island with lots of private homes and one end is state park. I would sure investigfate this area as it seems to fit your requirements.
Good luck