Recommendations for late-20 [singles] beach destination?
 

What I'm about to ask is pretty vague, so I apologize in advance - I'm just starting my search, so I am just trying to get an idea of some potentially good locations.

Here's my criteria:
1) Beach[es]
2) 20-somethings & early 30-somethings looking to do some partying (but not 24/7 out of control spring break partying)
3) Prioritization of lively fun over relaxation
4) Spending limit of ~$2,000 total (ideally less)
5) Timeframes:
a) Mid-to-upper US = June, July or August
b) Lower US, Caribbean, Mexico, etc = After August (whenever temps between the high 70s and low 90s)


About me -
I'm a late 20s single guy from the Buffalo, NY area looking to take a fun vacation with a few friends. I am just trying to narrow down some possible destinations right now. We're looking for some fun in the sun and do some partying. We'd like to go somewhere where people in our age range frequent for the same reasons. I've heard mention of places like Put In Bay, Virginia Beach, various All Inclusive Resorts in Jamaica, Mexico, etc and certain cruise ships that run in the Carribbean. If anyone can give me any more targeted info on anywhere that sounds like it would meet all (or most) of my criteria, I'd be very grateful.

Again, I'm sorry for the lack of specifics. Please let me know what other info I've left out that should be included in order to generate some good discussion here.

Thanks!

For Mexico look at Cancun or Playa del Carmen (on the Caribbean side) and Puerto Vallarta (on the west coast).

For Jamaica, look at Negril.

South Beach and Key West offer the fun you are looking for and you can hit your budget by sharing rooms or renting a property with your friends... You can also hit all the nightspots without overspending and still get the party you are seeking...

Have fun...

If you and your buddies like to golf, I'd consider Myrtle Beach. Has everything you're looking for.

Thanks, you three, I appreciate the info! I'll start focusing down on the places mentioned and seeing what I can find. I'm definitely still open to any and all suggestions, so please keep them coming!

@Brian_In_Charlotte, I like golf more than the rest of the crew, so it's probably not something we'll be looking for. Would you still recommend Myrtle over the other places mentioned?

You should just rent a place near Mickey Rats...

Myrtle Beach gets knocked a lot for its commercialism and traffic, but it does have a pretty good (but not out of control) party scene, nice beaches, great weather and all at a reasonable cost. It has many very good golf options, which would have been perfect if you planned to play.

Still, a fun place for singles looking to have some fun. But I think any of the places mentioned would work. Was thinking MB might be easier/cheaper to get to.

@garyt22 That would actually be the easiest thing to do, but then I'd also probably run into some of the usual faces. Looking to change things up a bit!

@Brian thanks for the quick reply. I'll definitely keep MB in mind!