Travelers can enjoy a wide array of beach vacations throughout the United States. From sand beaches and picturesque coast towns to gorgeous national parks and stunning scenery, there’s something for everyone.
The Hamptons is a popular choice for wealthy New Yorkers looking to escape the city for a weekend of fun in the sun. Or, a trip to Duck, North Carolina is less than five hours from Washington D.C.
1. Assateague Island
For a coastal getaway that will leave you in awe, look no further than Assateague Island. The barrier island shared by both Maryland and Virginia features sandy beaches, salt marshes, and maritime forests. But what makes Assateague truly stand out is its herds of wild horses. The ponies are the main reason that visitors flock to this beach-goer’s paradise.
The best way to see the horses is on a horse-drawn carriage ride or by biking. There are also kayak tours and bird-watching opportunities available to visitors. The island is located just a short distance from Ocean City and Chincoteague, making it a popular destination for people looking for a coastal vacation.
The island is home to a variety of wildlife and is well-known for its annual migration of birds. During the fall, tens of thousands of waterfowl roost on the island to rest and feed before continuing their southward journey.
Beach-goers should be aware that the weather at Assateague can be temperamental. It’s common to experience strong winds, high-tide conditions, and intense sun. It’s important to come prepared with the appropriate gear to protect yourself from these conditions.
Another great way to experience the island is by embarking on a sightseeing cruise. Sightseeing cruises are offered in the morning, afternoon, and at sunset. During the excursion, visitors can take in breathtaking views and enjoy herds of wild horses roaming their natural habitat. There is even the chance to spot marine life and watch bald eagles. The cruise is a fun and educational experience that the entire family will love.
2. Bald Head Island
In a world of over-populated vacation hotspots, Bald Head Island stands apart as a reclusive yet luxurious coastal retreat in North Carolina. This secluded island is reachable only by ferry or private boat, but has all the modern amenities and beach attractions you want in a relaxing getaway.
A trip to this enchanting barrier island is like no other, where you can truly disconnect and unplug from the everyday grind. With limited cars and a focus on natural beauty, your family will have the opportunity to explore the salt marshes, sandy beaches and forests with ease, as they can walk, bike or ride golf carts to get around.
Locals recommend visiting during fall, when the summer crowds have thinned and you can enjoy all of the natural beauty of the island with peace. The warm waters of the ocean, the cool breezes off of the river and the stunning fall colors that sweep across the island are all at your fingertips.
Beaches are a major draw to Bald Head Island, which boasts 14 miles of beautiful sand that is perfect for exploring, boogie boarding and even surfing. East Beach tends to be the most popular as it offers bigger waves, while South and West Beach are great for shelling, strolling or simply enjoying the sand and sun.
Another great way to take in the scenery is by kayaking along the many creeks that run through the island. You can rent a single or double kayak from Riverside Adventure Co or Coastal Urge and paddle your way down the island to experience the pristine nature of its surroundings. You may even spot a diamondback terrapin or dolphin while on your journey!
3. Duck
Duck, NC is a quiet northern Outer Banks seaside town that has quietly garnered a reputation as one of the best beach vacations in America. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Currituck Sound, this coastal retreat features wide uncrowded beaches, sublime shopping and dining and plenty of ocean and sound water sports to keep every member of your group busy.
While vacationers flock to the neighboring Outer Banks towns of Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills and Kitty Hawk for more action-packed beach experiences, Duck’s tranquil atmosphere and relaxed charm have made it one of the most sought after family beach vacation destinations in the country. With a small number of vacation rental properties spread across pristine beaches from ocean to sound, and a town center featuring shopping plazas and restaurants, the community feels intimate and inviting without the typical strip malls and traffic jams that plague larger resorts.
Guests who opt to stay in one of the luxury Duck vacation rentals can enjoy easy access to the untouched beaches, as well as convenient walking paths and bike routes that lead around the village center. A wide variety of beach and shopping amenities are also available within a short drive of Duck, with hotels and resorts in nearby Corolla and campgrounds in Kitty Hawk.
A visit to Duck wouldn’t be complete without exploring the area’s rich local culture and cuisine. The town is home to a number of popular restaurants that feature a wide array of menu options. From the upscale Sunset Grille to the laidback Cravings, diners will find delicious seafood and fare that is sure to please everyone in your group. For art lovers, the Greenleaf Gallery and other local shops showcase the work of national and regional artists.
4. Monterey County
California’s Monterey County is one of the best coastal getaways for families. It’s home to a variety of top attractions, including the award-winning Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and Old Fisherman’s Wharf. It also hosts many of the state’s best restaurants. The area is also renowned for its wine. Its diverse microclimates provide ideal conditions for grape growing, making it home to more than 150 wineries.
Those who love to get out into nature can enjoy scenic whale-watching cruises and lush nature trails in Monterey. The pristine beaches and serene tide pools are a sight to behold, as are the verdant kelp forests that can be explored on foot or by boat.
If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the chance to tour historic homes like Pacific House Museum. This two-story adobe building was once a hotel, tavern, and newspaper office. The garden here is also worth visiting. It features wishing fountains, cozy walkways, and flowers that bloom throughout the year.
Another top attraction in Monterey is the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, which is home to a stunning Cypress Grove Trail that allows hikers to explore one of the only naturally growing stands of Monterey cypress trees on Earth. It’s a beautiful place to relax, and it also provides a wonderful view of sea lions and harbor seals.
Those looking to shop can head to Cannery Row, which is the heart of downtown Monterey. It’s an eclectic waterfront district that was once the site of sardine canning factories. It’s now home to independent boutiques, gift shops, and luxury hotels. The street is lined with sidewalk cafes and a dazzling array of antiques, which can be purchased at the Cannery Row Antique Mall.
5. The Outer Banks
The Outer Banks of North Carolina’s Atlantic coast is a series of sand dune-studded barrier islands with miles of pristine beaches. This coastal vacation spot is popular with beach lovers, history buffs, and families looking for a laid-back beach getaway. With a mix of beach-front vacation rentals and hotels, there’s something for everyone in this popular destination.
The Outer Banks (OBX) is also known for its rich cultural history. It is home to infamous stories of pirates, shipwrecks, and Native American tribes. Many travelers visit this unique area for its distinct charms and to create memories that will last a lifetime.
During the summer, the Outer Banks is bustling with tourists. It is important to book your accommodations early as they fill up quickly. It is also recommended to arrive in the morning to beat the crowds and avoid long lines at restaurants and attractions.
A favorite Outer Banks destination is Manteo. It is a picturesque town with many waterfront fine dining options, shops, and museums featuring both antiques and modern exhibits. It is also the home to Elizabethan Gardens, a beautiful garden that showcases the flora and fauna of the Elizabethan era. Lastly, it is the perfect place to learn about Roanoke Island’s history at the Roanoke Island Festival Park and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site.
The OBX is an amazing location for family vacations as it offers a lot of activities that are kid-friendly. It is also a great spot for couples and friends looking to escape the hectic lifestyle of everyday life. A trip to the OBX is sure to provide you with memories that will last a lifetime. From a stroll on the flawless beaches to taking a scenic flight in an open-cockpit biplane above the spot where the Wright Brothers first flew, this is a paradise waiting to be explored.
