27 Of The Best USA Family Beach Vacations You Can Enjoy In 2023
USA Family beach vacations come with endless choices for family vacation spots.
Family beach vacation destinations are to be found strewn all along the Atlantic or Pacific coasts in the USA. Our family has been to tons of beaches in the US and we have not even scratched the surface!
Where can you find the Best USA Family Beach Vacations?
Florida can’t be beat if you are considering USA family beach vacations. It’s not just about frolicking on the beach and doing nothing all day. There’s Fort Lauderdale with its wonderful water taxi rides, museums, parks, and a variety of water sports from wind surfing to fishing in the deep.
Vero Beach offers wild life such as pelicans and turtles and sunken treasure hunts and boat trips in the moonlight. Cocoa Beach holds surf camps for kids of all ages. Destin with Henderson beach state park.
Or you can throw in your fishing line at the Pier and see what you can catch. South Carolina is the next stop and Myrtle Beach is where the entertainment is. South Carolina has great golfing for adult and lots of mini-golf for the whole family.
Virginia Beach, best known for its Boardwalk has more to offer in the form of the battleship the Marine Science Museum, Airspace Centre and lots more family friendly sites.
Another location for family trips is Georgia. This is where your family vacation takes on an old world appeal and a decidedly slower pace, as wide open spaces and stunning scenery join to enchant your senses.
Brunswick Golden Isles, Jekyll, and all those other fabulous islands offer plenty for you to enjoy on your family beach vacation. Be sure to visit. South Dunes Beach Park.
And of course we cannot forget the Pacific western coast, there are the fabulous beaches of California that adds enormous excitement to the itinerary on any USA family beach vacations.
Santa Barbara is a great place for family vacations and incorporates all sorts of sports and other activities for kids, taking them off your hands and leaving you free for some wine tasting, exploring, or even kayaking.
San Diego offers many beaches, each with its own unique brand of fun and lets not forget that amazing zoo.
Coronado Beach is one of the most trendy beach areas, especially since you can catch a glimpse of the Navy SEALS in the area. Boys in particular love this, go figure!
And our course, a few hours into the deep Pacific ocean we have Hawaii. The various Islands of Hawaii offer so much to see and do for any best family beach vacations.
List of Best Family Beach Vacations in the United States
What are the qualities of a great family beach destination? First, there should be kid-friendly accommodation within close proximity to all the activities.
Additionally, there should be non-beach attractions available for when you need a break from the sun and sand. Finally, a good vacation for the whole family should be both affordable and safe.
So lets get you some more ideas for your family vacation. Here are some of the best family beach vacations spots in the US to start planning your next trip.
1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Located on the east coast, this destination is perfect for families looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Spend your days soaking up the sun on the beach or splashing around in the waves.
Myrtle Beach also offers a variety of family-friendly attractions such as amusement parks, mini-golf courses, and aquariums. Indulge in the delicious seafood cuisine that Myrtle Beach is known for and catch a breathtaking sunset over the ocean.
2. St. Augustine, Florida
With 43 miles of pristine beaches, this is the perfect USA family vacations spot for a budget friendly escape! With its warm, sunny weather, sparkling beaches, and wide range of family-friendly activities, it’s the ultimate spot for your next getaway. Delight in relaxing on the soft sand, splashing in the waves, and soaking up the sun with your family.
The Old City offers fun attractions like the Castillo de San Marcos, beautiful gardens and plenty of shops.
So when you’re ready for some adventure, take a stroll through the charming historic district, where you can explore fascinating museums, enjoy delicious seafood meals, and even go on a thrilling ghost tour.
Pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for a truly unforgettable vacation in beautiful St. Augustine!
3. Daytona Beach, Florida
Also known as the “World’s Most Famous Beach”, Daytona is popular with families due to its wide beach and close proximity to a ton of attractions.
This iconic beach destination has it all: pristine sand, crystal blue waters, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for spending quality time with your loved ones.
Not to mention, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained, from water parks to go-kart racing to mini-golf. And if you’re worried about breaking the bank, Daytona Beach offers a range of affordable accommodations and restaurants, so you can make the most of your vacation without overspending.
4. Galveston, Texas
Galveston boasts a plethora of activities for families of all ages, from exploring the island’s rich history at the numerous museums to hopping aboard one of the many amusement park rides at the Pleasure Pier.
The 32-mile stretch of sandy beaches are perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, and soaking up the warm Texas sun. Don’t forget to try some fresh Gulf seafood at one of the many local restaurants, and take a sunset stroll along the seawall.
With so much to see and do, Galveston is the quintessential family vacation spot that will have you coming back year after year.
Check out the best things to do in Galveston
5. Santa Cruz, California
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean at one of California’s most beloved beaches! Take a surf lesson or get up close and personal with sea life on a kayak tour.
Santa Cruz, California is an ideal weekend or week-long destination full of fun and adventure for all ages. As you feel the sun warm your skin, you can bask in golden sand beaches, stroll the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk or visit the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf.
Santa Cruz offers an array of family-friendly activities, including whale watching, hiking in the redwoods, and surfing lessons. It’s also home to the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, where you can marvel at thousands of marine life species like adorable sea otters and majestic sharks.
Get a break from your daily routine and get ready to make unforgettable memories on this family beach vacation spot in Santa Cruz, California.
See the best hotels in Santa Cruz
6. Cape May, New Jersey
Look no further than Cape May, New Jersey. This charming beach town offers a variety of activities perfect for any best family beach vacations. The fantastic beaches are relatively uncrowded and offer the ideal environment for kids to explore the sand and surf while mom and dad relax in the sun.
This picturesque town is known for its charming Victorian architecture, stunning beaches, and family-friendly atmosphere. Spend your days soaking up the sun on the beach, building sandcastles with the kids, and playing in the refreshing ocean.
When you’re ready to step off the sand, explore the quaint town filled with boutique shops and delicious restaurants. Don’t forget to visit the Cape May Zoo or take a whale-watching tour for an unforgettable experience.
Once you’re done exploring the area, take a stroll down the boardwalk and indulge in some delicious classic treats like funnel cake and salt water taffy!
7. Panama City Beach, Florida
Known as the “Spring Break Capital of the World”, this destination is not just for college kids looking to cut loose. The crystal clear waters and white sand beaches are perfect for any vacation.
The area also offers a variety of attractions including ziplining, boat tours, dolphin cruises, and more. From parasailing and paddleboarding to amusement parks and animal encounters, Panama City Beach has it all.
And don’t forget about the delicious local seafood cuisine and charming beachside accommodations. With so much to see and do, this is sure to be a vacation your family will never forget.
8. Delray Beach, Florida
This stunning beach is perfect for a family vacation due to its close proximity to other attractions. Enjoy the secluded beaches or tour the nearby downtown strip full of restaurants, art galleries and shops.
This charming coastal town offers something for everyone in the family, from beautiful white sand beaches to a variety of shopping and dining options.
Take a stroll down the lively Atlantic Avenue, offering boutique shops and delicious seafood restaurants. For some family fun, head to the Seagate Beach Club and enjoy outdoor activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
With its warm weather year-round and friendly atmosphere, Delray Beach is the perfect spot to enjoy the sun and the beach.
9. Kiawah Island, South Carolina
This lush island offers 10 miles of wide white sand beaches for your ultimate USA family beach vacation. Relax in the sun or take a kayak tour through the wetlands and around historic sites. Kiawah Island also offers plenty of activities for kids including a fishing pier, playgrounds, and bike rentals.
Don’t forget to catch the beautiful sunset over the marshes and check out the historic lighthouse! Kids of all ages will love the beauty and warmth this barrier island has to offer.
Families can find plenty of outdoor activities such as biking, golf, fishing and beachcombing while they explore nearly ten miles of picturesque shoreline. Not to mention, it’s home to more than 20 species of wildlife – perfect for wildlife spotting!
The fun doesn’t end there – families can also dine at one of the delicious restaurants located throughout the island or take a tour on a bike through Kiawah Island’s beautiful nature trails.
10. Tybee Island, Georgia
This barrier island off the coast of Georgia boasts some of the state’s best beaches for families. The wide open expanse of sand is perfect for building sandcastles or playing a game of beach volleyball. In addition to swimming in the crystal clear waters, you can also rent bikes or kayaks to explore the island.
At night, take a stroll down the pier to catch some of the best views of Tybee Island’s famous lighthouse. With its laid back atmosphere and close proximity to Savannah, Tybee Island is perfect for your next beach vacation!
11. Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey
This vibrant beach town is the perfect destination for a family beach vacation. Take a stroll along the Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, one of the most picturesque boardwalks on the East Coast, and let your children have a blast with games, arcades, and carnival rides while you indulge in some scrumptious seafood.
Take a stroll down the boardwalk and enjoy some classic carnival rides or challenge your friends to an intense game of mini golf!
Why not explore the seas with a boat ride or get up close with adorable marine animals at the Jenkinson’s Aquarium? You and your family will never run out of things to do in this delightful beach town.
With over two miles of beautiful beaches and sandy shores, you can take in some breathtaking views while relaxing in the sun. With so much to do, this destination is sure to make your next best family beach vacations one to remember.
12. Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City is the perfect destination for a family beach getaway. Enjoy some of the best beaches on east coast while soaking up some of the area’s famous culture and nightlife. The two-mile boardwalk offers plenty of attractions including arcade games, an old-fashioned carousel, and a ferris wheel.
Don’t forget to take advantage of the area’s many water activities such as jet skiing and parasailing. With its vibrant atmosphere, Ocean City is sure to impress your family!
13. South Padre Island, Texas
This stunning barrier island off the coast of Texas is perfect for a family vacation. With its wide open beaches, sandy shores and vibrant atmosphere, South Padre Island offers something for everyone. Enjoy some of the area’s many attractions such as beachfront restaurants, amusement parks, and water sports.
This destination is also a great spot for kids due to its numerous outdoor activities such as horseback riding, sandcastle building and kite flying.
Children will love playing in the warm Gulf of Mexico waters, building sandcastles on the beach, and exploring the island’s many parks and nature reserves.
Families can also also enjoy dolphin and bird watching tours or take a thrilling ride on a banana boat or jet ski. And don’t miss out on the fabulous sunsets on these vacation in the U.S.
14. Coronado Island, California
If you’re looking for a luxurious family beach vacation, then look no further than Coronado Island in California. This beautiful island offers some of the most breathtaking beaches on the west coast with plenty of activities to enjoy.
Take a stroll down the boardwalk and explore the area’s many attractions such as the Coronado Beach Pier and the historic Hotel del Coronado – find rates.
You can also take a kayak tour through the mangroves or rent a paddle board to explore the shoreline. After a full day of fun activities, enjoy some delicious seafood from one of the many restaurants located on the island. With its stunning views and close proximity to San Diego, Coronado Island is sure to make your next family beach vacation one to remember!
15. Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores is the perfect destination for a beach vacation. With its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, it’s no wonder why this destination has become such a popular spot. Take part in some of the area’s many activities such as swimming, surfing, and fishing.
Take a stroll down the beach for a chance to spot dolphins or build sandcastles, and then hit up one of the several water parks or zoos in the area.
The Gulf Shores zoo offers a chance to interact with animals, petting kangaroos and holding alligators, making lasting memories for your little ones.
Additionally, Gulf Shores boasts a variety of thrilling water activities such as kayaking, parasailing, and jet skiing, perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
16. Cocoa Beach, Florida
Cocoa Beach is a great destination for a fun-filled family getaway. Enjoy some of the area’s many attractions such as the Cocoa Beach Pier, Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch and Ron Jon’s Surf Shop. Take part in some of the town’s many activities such as swimming, surfing, snorkeling and kayaking.
Explore the area’s local wildlife with a boat tour or a nature hike. Don’t forget to try some of the delicious seafood from one of the many restaurants located right on the beach.
Cocoa Beach is an exciting destination with beautiful beaches that will make your family vacation unforgettable!
17. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Looking for a family vacation destination that has something for everyone? Hilton Head Island, located in sunny South Carolina, offers endless activities that are perfect for kids of all ages.
With over 12 miles of beautiful unspoiled beaches, little ones can spend hours building sandcastles and splashing around in the shallow waves. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent bicycles and explore the island’s many trails, or hit up one of the numerous mini-golf courses.
And for the animal lovers in your family, make sure to take a dolphin-watching boat tour or visit the island’s famed lighthouse to catch a glimpse of the playful sea turtles.
There truly is something for everyone on Hilton Head Island, making it the perfect place for a family vacation.
18. Outer Banks, North Carolina
If you’re looking for a family beach vacation with breathtaking views, then look no further than the Outer Banks in North Carolina. Enjoy some of the area’s many attractions such as the Wright Brothers Memorial, Bodie Island Lighthouse and Jockey’s Ridge State Park.
Take part in some of the area’s many activities for the entire family such as swimming, surfing, fishing and kite flying. The Outer Banks offer beautiful beaches and a peaceful environment for your next family beach vacation, creating unforgettable memories.
19. Hawaii – The Big Island
When planning a family vacation to Hawaii, consider visiting the Big Island. This diverse island offers something for everyone in the family to enjoy, from stunning beaches to active volcanoes.
Take a scenic drive to Waipio Valley for breathtaking views of the lush surroundings. Visit Hilo Farmers Market to immerse yourself in the local culture and taste fresh fruits and vegetables.
For those seeking adventure, hike through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or snorkel at Kealakekua Bay to see colorful marine life.
Families with kids will love the interactive exhibits at the Imiloa Astronomy Center, which explores the connections between Hawaiian culture and astronomy, or the educational programs at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Other popular family activities include snorkeling with manta rays, hiking through lush rainforests, and visiting local farms to learn about sustainable agriculture.
Find the best hotels for families on the Big Island
20. Amelia Island, Florida
Amelia Island, Florida is the perfect vacation destination for families with children. Located just off the coast of northeast Florida, Amelia Island boasts miles of sandy beaches, a rich history, and countless activities for kids of all ages.
Take a stroll through the charming historic district and learn about the island’s past or visit Fort Clinch State Park and tour the historic fort. Kids will love swimming, boogie boarding, and collecting seashells on Fernandina Beach.
And when the day winds down, sit back and relax at one of the many family-friendly restaurants or enjoy s’mores around a beach campfire. With so much to see and do, Amelia Island is the ultimate family vacation spot.
21. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel-by-the-Sea is an ideal destination for a family beach vacation. With its stunning beaches, boutique shops, and delicious restaurants it’s no wonder why this spot has become so popular.
Nestled along the beautiful Pacific Ocean, vacationers can explore the enchanting seaside village while enjoying the many family-friendly activities. For the adventurous families, there are hiking trails along the coast, scenic drives with stunning views, and even opportunities to whale watch.
For those looking for a more relaxing activity, the picturesque beaches offer sunbathing and the chance to dip their toes in the refreshing ocean. With a plethora of child-friendly restaurants and shops, Carmel-by-the-Sea is perfect for family vacations.
22. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
This charming peninsula boasts miles of picturesque beaches, quaint New England towns, and plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained.
For beach lovers, Cape Cod has some of the best beaches in the country, such as Nauset Beach and Coast Guard Beach, to name a few. Take your pick from swimming and building sandcastles to kayaking and whale watching.
Don’t forget to visit some of the iconic Cape Cod landmarks, like the Cape Cod National Seashore and the working Marconi Station museum. As the sun sets, treat yourself and the kids to some classic New England seafood at one of the many clam shacks or seafood restaurants on the Cape.
23. Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu is a great spot for an unforgettable family beach vacation. With its stunning beaches and unique landscapes, it’s no wonder why this destination has become such a popular spot. Take part in some of the area’s many activities such as surfing, snorkeling, kayaking and swimming. Explore the area’s many attractions such as Pearl Harbor and the Polynesian Cultural Center and the Dole Plantation.
After a full day of fun in the sun, take part in some of Oahu’s traditional cultural activities such as hula dancing, luaus and local cuisine. With its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Oahu is sure to make your next family beach vacation one to remember!
Which one is best? Maui or Oahu Family Vacation 2023: Which Hawaiian Island is Better?
24. Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket is a great destination for a family beach vacation. With its stunning beaches and unique landscapes, it’s no wonder why this spot has become such a popular destination.
Enjoy some of the area’s many activities such as swimming, sailing, kayaking and fishing. After a full day at the beach explore the area’s many shops and restaurants.
Take a stroll down the beach to enjoy the views of the stunning sunsets and explore the area’s unique attractions such as the Nantucket Whaling Museum and Brant Point Lighthouse. With its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere, Nantucket is sure to make your next family beach vacation one to remember!
25. Culebra, Puerto Rico
Culebra is a great spot for an unforgettable family beach vacation. With its stunning beaches and unique landscapes, it’s no wonder why this destination has become such a popular spot. Take part in some of the area’s many activities such as swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and fishing.
After a full day at the beach explore the area’s many shops and restaurants.Take a stroll down the beach to enjoy the views of the stunning sunsets and explore the area’s unique attractions such as Flamenco Beach and Culebrita Island Nature Reserve.
With its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Culebra is sure to make your next family
26. Pacific City Beach, Oregon
Pacific City Beach is an ideal destination for a family beach vacation. With its stunning beaches, unique shops and delicious restaurants it’s no wonder why this spot has become so popular. Take part in some of the area’s many activities such as surfing, kayaking, swimming and horseback riding. There are great places to stay in Pacific City Oregon.
Explore the area’s many art galleries and take a stroll down the beach to enjoy the views of the stunning sunsets. With its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere, Pacific City Beach is sure to make your next family beach vacation one to remember!
27. Fire Island, New York
Fire Island in New York is an ideal vacation spot for families with kids. The island is a car-free sanctuary that is accessible only by boat, creating a unique and peaceful get-away atmosphere. The long sandy beaches are sure to delight the little ones and provide ample opportunities for playing in the water, building sandcastles or watching the wildlife around the shore.
Fire Island also has several nature trails and hiking paths that allow for scenic walks with the family. In addition, there are kid-friendly restaurants and shops located in the towns on the island.
A vacation to Fire Island, New York is not only a splendid way to create family memories, but also a chance to unplug from the hectic everyday pace and take pleasure in the simple things.
In conclusion
No matter what kind of vacation you’re looking for, the United States has some of the best family beach vacations in the world. From Hawaii to Oregon, Puerto Rico to Florida, each destination has its own unique charm and beauty that will make your next beach getaway one to remember!
Whether you’re looking for an active day on the beach or a relaxing evening stroll, these destinations offer something for every kind of traveler.
Choose one destination from this list of the best USA family beach vacations and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones today! And pack your bags and start planning your next family beach vacation in the US — you won’t regret it!
Read more about USA Family Beach Vacations We Love and Recommend:
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