Looking to the Bahamas for some fun in the sun this summer? Think the Caribbean is the place to be? Or are you more a Hawaii kind of person?  Please. You don't need any of those places to enjoy yourself. Every leisure activity you could think of can be found in one little place. And rest assured, it's much cheaper than any exotic locale.

Just open your map, and look to Sun Valley.

Nestled comfortably in the core of the Gem State (that's Idaho, for all you people rushing to Wikipedia), Sun Valley has it all: a fantastic 18-hole golf course for the fathers, a Salon and Day Spa for the mothers and even a Summer Camp for the kids.

But you don't want to get split up, right? You're a family! Do things together! And Sun Valley has you covered on that front, too. The entire resort, overlooked by the imposing and majestic Bald and Dollar Mountains, is catered towards those who love the outdoors. So haul your family outside, get a nice tan, and partake of a few adventures.

If you've never ridden a horse, then the stables are a good place to start. Located a short walk from the resort itself, the stables can get you astride an equine in no time. Worried that you'll be cast down from your saddle and trampled? Don't be. You're given a short lesson on riding before you start. And the horse tours are guided, so you'll have a professional on hands at all times.

Note, too, that children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. But you're doing this as a family, so that's no problem anyway, right? And if you're leery of straddling a horse, be at ease: you can settle for a hayride instead.

Sun Valley is beautiful to behold in the summer months. Bordered by mountainous terrain covered in wildflowers and teeming with animal life, the whole area practically screams for hikers. Don't be afraid to oblige it. There are trails running all over the resort, providing hours of fresh air, exercise and relaxation that today's computer bound families so desperately need. And, if you're counted among the braver of souls, plunge off-trail and see what you can find. Don't forget to bring along your bikes, as Sun Valley's web of trails are great for tourists on two wheels.

But you haven't lived if you've not tried white water rafting on the Salmon River. The thrill of the waves pounding down on your back as you careen down a foamy course of rocks and quick currents can set the heart racing and create memories that will last a lifetime. And since the rapids are safe enough for children aged four and up, you can include your children in those memories.

Don't delay. Sun Valley is waiting for you, perched in the lofty heights of northern Idaho. Easily accessible by plane or bus, Sun Valley is the perfect vacation getaway for those looking to make their summer the best of their lives.

This guide to Sun Valley was brought to you by Matt Bird.