Five years ago, nobody would have believed a three-bedroom waterfront property in South Florida could sell for under $400,000. But thanks to the housing market crash, Florida homes are now half off what they once were.

The beaches here are near pristine and completely open to the public. But for a break from the waves, residents can easily take a quick drive to Fort Lauderdale or Miami for major league sports and world-class entertainment.

(source: CNN Money)