You're looking for a beach getaway with gentle waves for swimming, scenic views for hiking, and amusement parks for thrill-seeking. You want shores with crystal-clear waters for snorkeling, historic lighthouses for exploring, and bonfires for bonding at night. With coastlines spanning from Massachusetts to California and Hawaii, your dream beach vacation awaits. From the East Coast to the West, the U.S. offers diverse beaches perfect for families. But which ones truly stand out? Let's explore the country's top family-friendly beaches to help you find the ultimate spot for your next vacation.
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Key Takeaways
- Northeast beaches like Coast Guard Beach and Old Orchard Beach offer gentle waves and scenic hiking trails for families.
- Southeast beaches, including Myrtle Beach and Outer Banks, feature amusement parks, water sports, and historic lighthouses.
- Gulf Coast beaches, such as Destin and Gulf Shores, provide pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling.
- California beaches, including Santa Monica and Huntington Beach, offer surfing lessons, amusement parks, and beach bonfires for families.
- Hawaiian beaches, like Oahu's beaches and Waikiki Beach, provide tranquil atmosphere, snorkeling spots, and calm waters for family fun.
Beaches in the Northeast
Among the top five beaches in the Northeast for families, you'll find some hidden gems that offer a mix of fun, relaxation, and scenic beauty.
If you're looking for a classic beach vacation with a touch of Cape Cod charm, head to Coast Guard Beach in Eastham, Massachusetts. This picturesque beach offers gentle waves, soft sand, and scenic hiking trails.
For a more rugged beach experience, visit Old Orchard Beach in Maine, a favorite among families and Maine coasters alike.
This lively beach town boasts a historic pier, amusement park, and plenty of restaurants serving fresh seafood.
If you're looking for a more secluded spot, try Goose Rocks Beach in Kennebunkport, Maine. This serene beach offers calm waters, soft sand, and stunning views of the Maine coast.
Other top beaches in the Northeast for families include Ogunquit Beach in Maine and Misquamicut State Beach in Rhode Island.
Each of these beaches offers a unique blend of natural beauty, amenities, and activities that are sure to delight both kids and adults.
Family Fun in the Southeast
As you head south, you'll find an array of exciting beach destinations in the Southeast that cater to families.
You'll discover the thrill of Myrtle Beach, with its amusement parks, water sports, and lively boardwalk.
In the Outer Banks, you'll experience a more laid-back charm, with historic lighthouses, pristine beaches, and natural wonders waiting to be explored.
Myrtle Beach Delights
In the heart of South Carolina's Grand Strand lies Myrtle Beach, a family-friendly destination that's teeming with activities, entertainment, and stunning ocean views.
You'll find a wide variety of family resorts, from cozy beachfront condos to sprawling water parks that cater to all ages. Many of these resorts offer kids' clubs, water sports, and game rooms, ensuring everyone in your family stays entertained.
The Myrtle Boardwalk is a must-visit attraction, stretching over a mile along the beach and featuring shops, restaurants, and amusement parks.
You can take a leisurely stroll, grab a bite to eat, or try your hand at the many games and rides. Don't miss the SkyWheel, a 200-foot tall Ferris wheel that offers breathtaking views of the ocean.
As the sun sets, the boardwalk comes alive with live music, fireworks, and a lively atmosphere that's perfect for families.
Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Myrtle Beach has something for everyone. With its warm weather, gentle waves, and abundance of activities, it's the perfect destination for your next family vacation.
Outer Banks Charm
One of the most popular activities in the Outer Banks is lighthouse hopping. With five historic lighthouses to visit, you'll have plenty of opportunities to learn about the region's maritime history and take in the stunning views from the top.
Another highlight of the Outer Banks is the chance to see wild horses roaming freely on the beaches. Take a guided tour to Ocracoke Island or Shackleford Banks to spot these majestic creatures up close.
Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or quality time with your family, the Outer Banks have something for everyone. With its unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, this destination is sure to leave you with lifelong memories.
Gulf Coast Beach Delights
While searching for the perfect beach getaway, you'll find the Gulf Coast offers a treasure trove of exciting options for families.
As you explore the Gulf treasures along the coast, you'll discover a wide variety of activities to suit all ages. From swimming and snorkeling to paddleboarding and kayaking, there's no shortage of fun in the sun.
The Gulf Coast is home to numerous coastal playgrounds that cater to families, offering amenities like water parks, amusement parks, and kid-friendly dining options.
Destin, Florida, is a top choice, with its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Gulf Shores, Alabama, is another favorite, featuring The Track Family Fun Parks and the Gulf State Park, which offers a nature center and a butterfly garden.
Orange Beach, Alabama, is also worth visiting, with its picturesque beaches and dolphin-watching cruises. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, the Gulf Coast has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for your next family beach vacation.
Best Beaches in California
| Beach | Activities |
|---|---|
| Santa Monica Beach | Amusement park, pier, surfing lessons |
| Coronado Beach | Tide pools, swimming, surfing |
| Huntington Beach | Surfing, volleyball, beach bonfires |
| La Jolla Cove | Snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming |
The California coast offers a variety of activities for families to enjoy together. Many beaches offer surfing lessons, perfect for kids and adults alike to catch their first wave. With calm waters and gentle waves, Santa Monica Beach and Coronado Beach are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Huntington Beach, also known as "Surf City USA", is a must-visit for any surf enthusiast. La Jolla Cove, with its crystal-clear waters, is perfect for scuba diving and exploring the underwater world. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, the California coast has something for every family.
Hawaiian Beaches for Families
As you explore the best beaches for your family, consider the stunning shores of Hawaii, a tropical paradise that offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
You'll find some of the top spots on the island of Oahu, where beautiful beaches and exciting activities await.
On Oahu, you can discover beaches like those in Kailua, which offer a perfect mix of tranquility and fun activities to keep your family entertained.
Oahu's Best Beaches
Several premium beaches on the island of Oahu make it an ideal destination for families seeking a Hawaiian getaway.
You'll find plenty of kid-friendly activities and spots that cater to families with children of all ages. If your kids love snorkeling, Oahu snorkeling spots like Hanauma Bay and Shark's Cove offer an unforgettable experience.
These protected marine sanctuaries are home to an array of tropical fish and colorful coral.
In Waikiki, you'll find a playground, tennis courts, and an outdoor movie screen that hosts free film screenings under the stars.
Your kids can also enjoy the calm and clear waters of Waikiki Beach, perfect for swimming and building sandcastles.
Kaimana Beach and Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon are two other family-friendly beaches on the island that offer calm waters and plenty of shade.
With its beautiful beaches, gentle waves, and numerous kid-friendly activities, Oahu is an excellent choice for families looking for a fun and relaxing beach vacation in Hawaii.
Kailua Beach Activities
Kailua Beach offers a serene alternative to the bustling beaches of Waikiki, making it an ideal spot for families seeking a more laid-back Hawaiian beach experience. As you explore this beautiful beach, you'll find plenty of activities to keep your family entertained.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Kailua Snorkeling | Discover the underwater world of Kailua Beach, where you can spot tropical fish and colorful coral. |
| Kailua Kayaking | Paddle through the calm waters of Kailua and explore the nearby islands and coves. |
| Swimming | Enjoy the warm waters of Kailua Beach, perfect for swimming and playing. |
| Beach Volleyball | Set up a net and play a game of beach volleyball with your family and friends. |
With its calm waters and soft white sand, Kailua Beach is a perfect spot for families with kids. You can also take a short walk to the nearby town of Kailua, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Whether you're looking to relax or stay active, Kailua Beach has something for everyone.
East Coast Hidden Gems
Beyond the bustling beaches of Miami and Myrtle, you'll find a treasure trove of East Coast hidden gems perfect for family vacations.
These coastal towns offer a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty that's hard to resist.
Consider visiting the picturesque towns of Chincoteague and Assateague in Virginia and Maryland, respectively.
These islands are famous for their wild ponies and pristine beaches. You can explore the Assateague Lighthouse, go kayaking, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the sunset.
Another must-visit destination is the charming town of St. George Island in Florida.
This barrier island boasts 22 miles of undeveloped beaches, perfect for swimming, shelling, and sunbathing. The St. George Lighthouse is a historic landmark that offers stunning views of the surrounding waters.
These lighthouse beaches offer a unique and unforgettable experience for families.
With their natural beauty, rich history, and laid-back atmosphere, they're the perfect alternative to the crowded beaches of Miami and Myrtle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Beach Activities for Toddlers?
When planning beach activities for toddlers, you'll want to bring beach toys like buckets, shovels, and molds. Engage them in water games like splashing and pouring water, and try simple activities like beachcombing and sandcastle building.
Can I Bring My Dog to Family Beaches?
Carefully check canine policies before cruising to beaches with your furry friend. You'll find some spots are pet-friendly, but others have dog restrictions, so it's vital to research beforehand to avoid any ruff situations.
Are Beach Wheelchairs Available for Rent?
You'll find beach wheelchairs are available for rent at many U.S. beaches, offering beach accessibility and various wheelchair options, such as manual, power, and all-terrain chairs, to guarantee everyone can enjoy the shore.
How Do I Protect My Family From Sunburn?
To shield your family from sunburn, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen every 2 hours, don't forget hard-to-reach areas, and reapply after swimming. After sun exposure, soothe skin with aloe vera or after-sun lotion to prevent peeling.
Can I Have a Beach Bonfire at Family Beaches?
You'll need to check coastal regulations before having a beach bonfire. Some beaches allow them, while others don't, or require fire pit rentals. Research the specific rules at your destination to avoid fines.
Conclusion
You've just scratched the surface of the best U.S. beaches for families. As you start planning your next coastal getaway, remember that a beach vacation is a treasure chest of memories waiting to be opened. With each location offering a unique blend of relaxation, excitement, and adventure, you'll be spoiled for choice. So, plunge into and discover the perfect beach for your family's story – the one that will leave a lasting tide in your hearts.
