Choosing the perfect East Coast beach for your family vacation can feel overwhelming. With over 2,000 miles of coastline stretching from Maine to Florida, the options are endless! From bustling boardwalks and amusement parks to tranquil shores and natural beauty, the Atlantic coast offers a diverse range of beach experiences. Whether you’re seeking action-packed fun or a relaxing seaside escape, the East Coast has a beach to match your family’s style. Let’s dive into some of the top East Coast beach towns that promise unforgettable family memories this summer and beyond.
aerial view of a sandy beach with clear blue water and people enjoying the sun
1. Old Orchard Beach, Maine
Old Orchard Beach, a classic vacation destination for over 170 years, offers seven miles of sandy shoreline perfect for families. The iconic Old Orchard Beach Pier is a hub of activity, featuring shops, restaurants, and the thrilling Palace Playland arcade. Kids will love the amusement park atmosphere, while adults can appreciate the proximity to Portland’s vibrant culinary scene, just a short drive away. This blend of beach fun and city access makes Old Orchard Beach a great option for families with diverse interests.
Image showcasing the Old Orchard Beach Pier, emphasizing the family-friendly attractions and the vastness of the beach.
2. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
While reaching Martha’s Vineyard requires a bit more effort, the reward is well worth it. This island paradise, just off Cape Cod, boasts charming historic towns like Edgartown and stunning beaches. For breathtaking views, visit Gay Head Beach in Aquinnah with its unique pink cliffs. Families with young children will find the calm waters of Menemsha Public Beach ideal for safe splashing and play. Martha’s Vineyard offers a refined beach experience with a touch of New England charm.
a bowl of clam chowder and a glass of beer on a wooden table at Martha's Vineyard
3. Westerly, Rhode Island
Westerly, Rhode Island, in particular the Watch Hill area, provides a balanced family beach vacation with cultural and scenic attractions. The picturesque Watch Hill lighthouse and the grand Ocean House resort offer stunning views and photo opportunities. Beyond the beach, families can explore the nearby Mystic Seaport Museum in Connecticut for a dose of maritime history and education, making Westerly a destination that combines beach relaxation with enriching activities.
Watch Hill lighthouse standing tall on a grassy hill overlooking the ocean in Westerly Rhode Island
4. The Hamptons, New York
For families seeking a touch of glamour with their beach vacation, the Hamptons on Long Island’s South Fork are a must-visit. While known for luxury homes and celebrity sightings, the Hamptons also offer beautiful beaches. Southampton boasts charming boutiques and upscale dining, while Montauk, at the island’s eastern tip, provides a more laid-back atmosphere, especially during the shoulder season. Teenagers might recognize locations from MTV’s “Summer House,” adding a pop culture element to the trip.
wooden walkway leading to a sandy beach in Southampton Hamptons with ocean and sky in background
5. Sandy Hook, New Jersey
Sandy Hook, New Jersey, offers a unique beach experience with the stunning backdrop of the New York City skyline. Operated by the federal government, this peninsula provides both ocean waves and calmer bay waters. Minimal concessions mean packing your own food and drinks is advisable, making it perfect for a picnic beach day. The 8.7-mile multi-use path is ideal for family bike rides, adding activity beyond just swimming and sunbathing. Its proximity to NYC makes it easily accessible for city dwellers.
empty sandy beach with the New York City skyline visible in the distance at Sandy Hook New Jersey
6. Asbury Park, New Jersey
Asbury Park, part of the iconic Jersey Shore, has undergone a remarkable renaissance, making it a revitalized and attractive family beach destination. Enjoy upscale restaurants with ocean views and stay in beautifully restored historic hotels. For music-loving families, the legendary Stone Pony music club, where Bruce Springsteen rose to fame, offers a chance to experience live music history. Asbury Park combines classic boardwalk charm with modern amenities and attractions.
lighthouse image for best east coast beaches article pin
7. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Delaware may be small, but it boasts impressive beaches, and Rehoboth Beach is a prime example. Originally a Methodist summer camp, Rehoboth now offers a classic boardwalk experience with family-friendly attractions. While traffic can be challenging due to the town’s layout, staying in an oceanfront hotel or a rental within walking distance to the beach and boardwalk is highly recommended for convenience and maximizing beach time.
8. Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City, Maryland, is THE go-to destination for week-long family beach vacations, distinct from its quieter New Jersey namesake. Renowned for its top-rated boardwalk, Ocean City provides endless entertainment with salt water taffy shops, arcade games, and amusement rides. Don’t forget to indulge in famous Maryland crab cakes for a taste of local flavor. Ocean City is a vibrant and bustling beach town perfect for action-packed family fun.
busy boardwalk in Ocean City Maryland with shops and people walking around
9. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach remains a beloved family beach destination, famous for its “Virginia is for Lovers” slogan. Wide, wonderful oceanfront beaches and a three-mile boardwalk provide ample space for family activities. Resort hotels along Atlantic Avenue offer easy beach access. For a quieter experience, Sandbridge, a short drive south, offers house rentals and serene natural beauty, ideal for sunrise walks and sunset kayaking, catering to families seeking both lively and relaxed beach experiences.
10. Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks (OBX) of North Carolina are perfect for large family gatherings and beach house vacations. Spacious beach houses, often just a short walk from the shore, are common in towns like Corolla, known for its wild horse beaches. The OBX offer a more natural and less commercialized beach experience, ideal for families looking to reconnect and enjoy the outdoors in a beautiful coastal setting.
Image capturing a sunset at Outer Banks, North Carolina, highlighting the natural beauty and peaceful beach atmosphere.
11. Tybee Island, Georgia
Tybee Island, Georgia, offers a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, making it a “happy place” for many families. Wide beaches and a variety of restaurants and activities cater to all ages. Its proximity to historic Savannah provides a fantastic option for day trips, blending beach relaxation with cultural exploration. Enjoy the best of both worlds – coastal charm and Southern city sophistication – on a Tybee Island family vacation.
parents and daughter standing in front of a Tybee Island crab shack sign smiling
12. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a fantastic family beach destination, especially for families with golfers. Choose from golf view villas or oceanfront accommodations. Broadway at the Beach, a premier entertainment district, provides evening fun for teens with restaurants, attractions, and mini golf. Myrtle Beach offers a blend of beach relaxation, golfing opportunities, and entertainment options to satisfy every family member.
13. St. Pete Beach, Florida
St. Pete Beach on Florida’s Tampa Bay boasts calm waters and soft sandy beaches, ideal for families with young children. Numerous resort hotels, including the popular Tradewinds Resort, line the shore. For a more luxurious stay, the iconic pink Don Cesar hotel offers pampering and upscale amenities. Boat tours offer opportunities to see dolphins playing in the wake, adding a touch of wildlife magic to your beach vacation.
dolphin swimming in the clear waters of St Pete Beach Florida
14. St. Augustine, FL
St. Augustine, Florida, with its 42 miles of beaches, guarantees plenty of space for families to spread out. Diverse lodging options range from vacation rentals to resorts and campsites. Unique to St. Augustine is the ability to drive on certain beach areas. Downtown St. Augustine offers historical attractions, museums, and shops, appealing to multi-generational families interested in history and culture alongside beach fun.
15. Key West, Florida
Key West, the southernmost point, provides a unique and walkable beach town experience. Families with young children will enjoy the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, while Smathers Beach offers classic sandcastle building opportunities. Teenagers and older kids can explore Ernest Hemingway’s house and enjoy the lively nightlife. Key West’s vibrant atmosphere and diverse attractions make it a memorable final stop on the East Coast beach tour.
southernmost point buoy in Key West Florida with people lining up to take pictures
The East Coast offers an incredible variety of beaches perfect for families. From the bustling boardwalks of Maryland and New Jersey to the serene shores of North Carolina and Georgia, there’s a beach destination to create lasting family memories. Start planning your East Coast family beach vacation today!
