Top 10 Best East Coast Beaches for Families
The East Coast is home to some of the most breathtaking and family-friendly beaches in the United States.
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What to consider when choosing a beach for your family vacation
Before diving into our top 10 best East Coast beaches for families, it is important to consider some factors when choosing a beach destination for your family vacation.
The first and most important factor is safety. It is essential to choose a beach that is safe for your family to swim and play.
The second factor is the age of your children. If you have young children, you may want to choose a beach with calm waters and a gentle slope.
The third factor is the amenities available at the beach, such as restrooms, showers, and food stands.
Finally, you should also consider the accessibility of the beach, parking, and the distance from your accommodation.
Top 10 best East Coast beaches for families
- Kiawah Island, South Carolina – Kiawah Island is a perfect destination for families who love outdoor activities such as biking, fishing, kayaking, and golfing. The beach boasts of 10 miles of pristine sand, calm waters, and a gentle slope, making it safe for children to swim.
- Cape May, New Jersey – Cape May is a charming seaside town with a beautiful beach that offers a wide range of family-friendly activities such as dolphin watching, mini-golf, and beachcombing. The beach is also known for its stunning sunsets and Victorian architecture.
- Ocracoke Island, North Carolina – Ocracoke Island is a secluded beach that is perfect for families who want to escape the crowds. The beach is accessible only by ferry, which adds to its exclusivity. The beach boasts of crystal clear waters, soft sand, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Ocean City, Maryland – Ocean City is a popular beach destination that offers something for everyone. The beach boasts of soft sand, gentle waves, and a boardwalk that is lined with restaurants, shops, and amusement parks.
- Bethany Beach, Delaware – Bethany Beach is a family-friendly beach that offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. The beach boasts of soft sand, calm waters, and a boardwalk that is perfect for strolling and biking.
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – Myrtle Beach is a vibrant beach destination that is perfect for families who love a lively atmosphere. The beach boasts of soft sand, clear waters, and a boardwalk that is lined with restaurants, shops, and attractions such as Ripley’s Aquarium.
- Virginia Beach, Virginia – Virginia Beach is a family-friendly beach that offers a wide range of activities such as surfing, jet skiing, and fishing. The beach boasts of soft sand, clear waters, and a boardwalk that is perfect for biking and rollerblading.
- Nags Head, North Carolina – Nags Head is a popular beach destination that is known for its sand dunes and historic lighthouses. The beach boasts of soft sand, gentle waves, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Hilton Head Island, South Carolina – Hilton Head is a perfect destination for families who love outdoor activities such as biking, golfing, and kayaking. The beaches boast of soft sand, clear waters, and a gentle slope, making it safe for children to swim.
- Rehoboth Beach, Delaware – Rehoboth Beach is a family-friendly beach that offers a wide range of activities such as swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding. The beach boasts of soft sand, clear waters, and a boardwalk that is lined with restaurants, shops, and attractions such as Funland.
Read More: Top 10 Best West Coast Beaches for Families
Why these beaches are great for families
All the beaches listed above are great for families because they offer a wide range of family-friendly activities, have calm waters that are safe for children to swim, and have amenities such as restrooms, showers, and food stands. The beaches are also easily accessible, with ample parking available.
Attractions and activities at each beach
Each beach listed above offers a unique set of attractions and activities that are perfect for families. Kiawah Island, for example, offers outdoor activities such as biking and kayaking, while Cape May is known for its dolphin watching and mini-golf. Ocean City, on the other hand, has an amusement park and a boardwalk that is perfect for strolling.
Best family-friendly accommodations near the beaches
All the beaches listed above have a wide range of family-friendly accommodations available. Kiawah Island, for example, has a range of villas and rental homes, while Ocean City has a variety of hotels and resorts. It is important to book your accommodation in advance to ensure availability.
Dining options at each beach destination
Each beach destination listed above has a variety of dining options available that are perfect for families. Kiawah Island, for example, has a range of restaurants that offer seafood and low-country cuisine, while Ocean City has boardwalk food stands that offer classic beach fare such as hot dogs and funnel cakes.
Tips for a successful family beach vacation
To ensure a successful family beach vacation, it is important to pack appropriately for the beach, bring sunscreen and hats, and pack snacks and drinks. It is also important to stay hydrated and to take breaks from the sun. Finally, it is important to be aware of the beach rules and regulations, such as no glass containers and no smoking.
Other family-friendly destinations to explore nearby
If you have extra time, there are several other family-friendly destinations near the beaches listed above that are worth exploring.
For example, Charleston, South Carolina, is a charming city that is known for its historic architecture and delicious cuisine. Williamsburg, Virginia, is a historic town that is home to Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens amusement park.
Conclusion – making the most of your family beach vacation
In conclusion, the East Coast is home to some of the most beautiful and family-friendly beaches in the United States. Whether you are looking for a quiet getaway or a lively atmosphere, there is a beach destination on the East Coast that is perfect for your family.
By considering the factors mentioned above and following the tips for a successful family beach vacation, you can ensure that your family has a memorable and fun-filled vacation.
