Hey there, readers! Are you looking for the perfect beach getaway for your family this summer? Look no further than the beautiful East Coast, which offers an array of stunning beaches that cater to the needs of every family. Whether you’re seeking pristine sands, gentle waves, or exciting activities, the East Coast has got you covered.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of the best East Coast beaches for families, highlighting their unique charms and amenities. From bustling boardwalks to serene hidden coves, we’ve got everything you need to plan an unforgettable vacation that will create memories to last a lifetime. So grab your sunscreen, pack your beach bags, and let’s dive right in!
Top East Coast Beaches for Families
Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City is a classic family beach destination known for its lively boardwalk, amusement parks, and miles of sandy shores. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles, while the boardwalk offers an array of rides, games, and restaurants for all ages.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Another popular East Coast beach for families is Virginia Beach, which boasts a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. The beach is ideal for swimming, surfing, and fishing, and the boardwalk features an aquarium, a museum, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a family-friendly destination with a wide selection of affordable accommodations, attractions, and restaurants. The beach offers a variety of activities, including swimming, fishing, kayaking, and parasailing, and the nearby Broadway at the Beach entertainment complex has something for everyone, from water parks to live shows.
Things to Look for When Choosing a Family-Friendly Beach
In addition to the beaches mentioned above, there are many other great East Coast beaches for families. When choosing a beach, keep the following factors in mind:
Beach Conditions
Consider the sand quality, water clarity, and wave conditions when selecting a beach. Some beaches have soft, white sand that’s perfect for building sandcastles, while others have rougher sand or pebbles. The water clarity and wave conditions can also vary, so be sure to choose a beach that meets your family’s preferences.
Amenities
Look for beaches that offer amenities such as restrooms, showers, and lifeguards. Some beaches also have playgrounds, picnic areas, and snack bars. If you’re planning to spend a lot of time at the beach, it’s worth choosing one with plenty of amenities to make your stay more comfortable.
Activities
Consider the activities available at the beach. Some beaches offer a variety of activities, such as swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking, while others are more laid-back and offer fewer options. If you have kids, look for a beach with activities that will keep them entertained.
Best East Coast Beaches for Families Table
To help you compare the different beaches, we’ve created a table that summarizes the key information:
| Beach | Location | Sand Quality | Water Clarity | Wave Conditions | Amenities | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ocean City, Maryland | Maryland | Soft, white sand | Clear | Moderate | Restrooms, showers, lifeguards, boardwalk, amusement parks | Swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, rides, games, restaurants |
| Virginia Beach, Virginia | Virginia | Soft, white sand | Clear | Moderate | Restrooms, showers, lifeguards, boardwalk, aquarium, museum, shops, restaurants | Swimming, surfing, fishing, kayaking, parasailing |
| Myrtle Beach, South Carolina | South Carolina | Soft, white sand | Clear | Moderate | Restrooms, showers, lifeguards, boardwalk, water parks, live shows | Swimming, fishing, kayaking, parasailing |
| Bethany Beach, Delaware | Delaware | Soft, white sand | Clear | Calm | Restrooms, showers, lifeguards, playground, picnic areas | Swimming, sunbathing, fishing, kayaking |
| Cape May, New Jersey | New Jersey | Soft, white sand | Clear | Moderate | Restrooms, showers, lifeguards, boardwalk, shops, restaurants | Swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boating |
Planning Your Family Beach Vacation
Once you’ve chosen the perfect beach, it’s time to plan your vacation. Here are a few tips to make sure your trip is everything you hoped for:
Book in Advance
If you’re planning to visit a popular beach during peak season, be sure to book your accommodations and activities in advance. This will help you secure the best deals and avoid any last-minute surprises.
Pack for the Weather
Be sure to pack for all types of weather, including sun, rain, and wind. It’s also a good idea to pack a first-aid kit and any necessary medications.
Bring Plenty of Food and Drinks
Food and drinks can be expensive at the beach, so it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks. You can also pack a cooler with lunch and drinks to save even more money.
Be Sun Smart
Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. It’s also a good idea to take breaks in the shade throughout the day.
Conclusion
The East Coast has an abundance of beautiful beaches that are perfect for families. Whether you’re looking for a lively boardwalk, serene hidden coves, or exciting activities, you’re sure to find the perfect beach
FAQ about Best East Coast Beaches for Families
Which beaches have the calmest waters?
Answer: Cape Cod Bay in Massachusetts, Rehoboth Beach in Delaware, and Clearwater Beach in Florida offer gentle waves and calm waters, making them ideal for young children and non-swimmers.
Where can I find sandy beaches with plenty of space?
Answer: Virginia Beach in Virginia, Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, and Ocean City in Maryland boast wide, expansive beaches with ample room to spread out and enjoy the sun.
What beaches have lifeguards on duty?
Answer: Most major beaches along the East Coast have lifeguards during peak season. Popular beaches with lifeguards include Hampton Beach in New Hampshire, Ocean City in Maryland, and Virginia Beach in Virginia.
Where can I find beaches with activities for kids?
Answer: Ogunquit Beach in Maine has a carnival atmosphere with arcades, rides, and games. Seaside Heights in New Jersey offers a water park and a boardwalk with rides and attractions.
What beaches have pet-friendly areas?
Answer: Myrtle Beach in South Carolina and Cocoa Beach in Florida have designated pet-friendly sections where dogs can play and swim.
Where can I find secluded beaches away from crowds?
Answer: Chincoteague Island in Virginia, Assateague Island in Maryland, and Hunting Island in South Carolina offer pristine beaches with fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
What beaches have clear water for snorkeling?
Answer: Key Biscayne in Florida, St. Simon’s Island in Georgia, and Cape Lookout National Seashore in North Carolina have crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling and exploring marine life.
Where can I find beaches with amenities like restrooms and showers?
Answer: Most popular beaches have basic amenities like restrooms and showers. Beaches with full-service amenities, including food courts, gift shops, and beach rentals, include Rehoboth Beach in Delaware and Virginia Beach in Virginia.
What beaches are accessible by public transportation?
Answer: Ocean City in Maryland, Rehoboth Beach in Delaware, and Asbury Park in New Jersey are accessible by train or bus.
Where can I rent beach equipment?
Answer: Many beaches have rental shops where you can rent umbrellas, chairs, and other beach essentials. Some popular beaches with rental services include Myrtle Beach in South Carolina and Clearwater Beach in Florida.
