“Meet me where the sky touches the sea. A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul…” ~Unknown
What attracts you to your favorite beach destination? No doubt you look forward to relaxing on wide, sandy beaches and swimming in sparkling, ocean water. But do you prefer a less-trafficked location or one that is a tourist hotspot?
We zeroed in on our favorite East Coast beaches (and there are many!), before highlighting the following ten. These featured locations offer a nice mix of vacation types, from that quiet getaway to a place to enjoy family fun. Read on to discover the attraction of these ten beaches along the USA’s East Coast. (Swipe left on each photo to see the next in the slideshow.)
Cape Cod National Seashore
Cape Cod, Massachussets ranks high on our list. The popular vacation spot offers a little bit of something for everyone. The National Seashore, which stretches for 40 miles, is no exception. If you visit, you’re sure to enjoy it’s popular beaches (some near lighthouse attractions), or its more secluded, pristine spots. Either way, you won’t soon forget the beaches along this federally-protected shore.
Photo: nationalpark_familyquest
Flying Point Beach,
Southampton
If you’re planning to visit Long Island’s east end, but prefer a quite, relaxing beach, you’ve found it! Pristine, white sands, protected dunes, sea oats, and more dot the landscape along this lovely beac in New York State. You’ll have to plan ahead, though. Access is allowed only with a seasonal permit. Note: The Beach offers a picnic area, showers, restrooms, and mobile food stand. Drive-on access to the beach with ATVs is sometimes granted.
Photo: Caren Milheron Photography
Fire Island National Seashore
Just south of Long Island and across the Great South Bay lies Fire Island. The barrier island houses the 26-mile long National Seashore; an area treasure! Most beaches, like the National Seashore-managed Watch Hill and Sailor’s Haven, are accessible only by boat or ferry. Two of the more popular, family beaches, Robert Moses and Smithpoint, however, are accessible by car. Note: Kismet is a lovely beach/town. While it’s not run by the National Seashore, it’s accessible via a walk from Robert Moses Beach.
Photo: nationalpark_familyquest
Cape May
Cape May sits proudly at the southernmost point of New Jersey. The town offers many attractions, boutiques, historic homes, and of course, beautiful beaches. Approximately 16 entry points are accessible along Beach Avenue, which are just a short walk from the town attractions.(Beach tags are required during the season.) However, we prefer Cape May Point State Park. It ‘s free to the public and not only offers pristine sands, but is a superb location for birding, picnics, and nature walks.
Photo: Ruschtotheoutdoors
Bethany Beach
If you’re familiar with the Delaware Shore, you’ve probably heard of Rehobeth Beach. Bethany Beach is a more laid-back version of Rehobeth, but still has quaint shops, restaurants, a boardwalk, and beautiful beach. In fact, you’ll find the beaches very clean with soft sand and clear water. Bethany Beach is certainly a favorite destination for beach-goers!
Photo: lemons_brand
Oak Island
Oak Island, North Carolina is tops with families. Kid and dog-friendly, the beaches of Oak Island have multiple entry points and free parking! Although there isn’t a boardwalk, there are two piers, a wide sandy beach, and many attractions within driving distance.
Photo: Ruschtotheoutdoors
Outer Banks
The Outer Banks are also located in North Carolina, but seem worlds away. The barrier islands offer hundreds of miles of free and open unspoiled public beaches. Many are dog-friendly. So, if you’re looking to avoid a tourist trap, and prefer relaxing amongst simple, natural beauty, this is the beach area for you!
Photo: rigby.the.weim
Myrtle Beach
If you ARE looking for a beach in a more popular, tourist area, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina may fit the bill. With tons of beaches in the area, you’re sure to be close to shopping, restaurants, lodging, and attractions. (Many are walking distance from your chosen beach.) Families with tennagers will especially like the 60-mile coastline of the Grand Strand, since there is so much to do closeby! However, the beach is also known for its warm sands and sparkling warm water. Note: We recommend the Central Myrtle Beach and Cherry Grove Beach.
Photo: Caren Milheron Photography
Tybee Island
This quaint barrier island in Georgia boasts over three miles of beautiful beaches, each with their own personal style. Indeed, Tybee Island’s three beautiful oceanfront beaches are all gems, and fairly close to amenities, too. Parking can be tight at Tybee Island Beach and the sands can get crowded. So, grab a spot further from the boardwalk and enjoy your day out.
Photo: Tybee Yoga
Pensacola Beach
Located on Santa Rosa Island, a barrier island in Florida, Pensacola Beach is a periennel favorite with vacationers. The sugary sands and emerald-green coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, impress beachgoers year-after-year. Note: We recommend Casino Beach or Quietwater Beach to be close to amenities. If you are looking for a quiter spot, try the nearby Navarre Beach.
Photo: deluna_vision
Photo Credits
References
Santa Rosa Island Authority: Visit Pensacola Beach
Visit Tybee: Tybee Island Beaches
Resources
National Weather Service: Actions to Take at the Beach to Protect you, your Family, and Others
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