It hurts to do crunches...?

I'm trying to lose a few pounds before I hit the beach (I'd very much like to wear a bikini this summer). I've been watching what I eat, how much I eat, drinking plenty of water, doing cardio, etc. But my main problem is my tummy. I have a little pooch, nothing serious; and a little bit on the sides. I do cardio, of course...but when I try and do crunches, it hurts my back and neck VERY badly. Sometimes, it even gives me a headache. Is there anything I can do to make doing crunches easier? Or are there any other exercises AT ALL that target the stomach and sides? Thanks :)