Have a look at these brilliant old postcards from a hidden gem nestled in the Atlantic's bosom, Wildwood Crest, NJ.
Wildwood was a huge tourist spot after WWII, when the affordability of automobiles lent Americans a new type of freedom: freedom to drive wherever the heck they wanted to. Naturally, people were drawn to the ocean, and clean white sandy beaches.
Eventually, local business people caught on and began building various motels in the 1950's, all with decade-appropriate themes- spaceships, the Orient, Hawaii, and a host of various others. The motels, which are now affectionately known as "Doo-Wop Property", can be described as garish, but ultimately beautiful in their glorious kitschiness.
For the whole story, and some great photos of motels (most of which I have stayed in), check out The Doo Wop Preservation League.
I wish Michigan had a beach.
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