Ultimate Beach Family Vacations Destinations in the US

happy family in the beach

Family beach vacations allow you to relax, have fun, and spend quality time together. You can engage in numerous activities with your loved ones during a beach vacation, including swimming, beach games, sunbathing, and water sports, among others.

The best family beach vacations have safe, clear water, and family-friendly amenities such as spacious accommodations, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment.

We compiled a list of destinations for the best family beach vacations in the different parts of the U.S. to help you choose the most suitable location for your family.

Best Beaches in Florida

There are numerous family-friendly Florida beaches to explore. Below is an overview of the top four best beaches for families in Florida.

Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is one of the most popular Florida beaches for families. It is on the Gulf coast and has sugar-white sands, crystal clear water, and scenic sunset views.

Families can engage in a wide range of activities at Clearwater Beach, including swimming, sunbathing, watersports, fishing, and beach games. Pier 60 is particularly popular among tourists for fishing and watching the sunset.

There are numerous accommodation options for a family beach vacation at Clearwater Beach, ranging from hotels to vacation rentals, making it easy for families to plan their stay. There are also a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment facilities. There are even vacation rentals in Clearwater Beach that sleep as many as 30 people!

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is a barrier sea island located off the southern coast of Florida. It is a fantastic beach family destination for families interested in exploring both the sea and wildlife. Sanibel Island is home to seashell-lined beaches and nature preserves such as the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

As such, families can spend some time in the calm waters beachcombing and shell collecting and the rest of the time observing a variety of wildlife. Sanibel Island is also home to the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, where families learn about the unique shell-collecting culture of the people in the area.

Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach is in Bay County, on the Gulf coast. It is known for its long stretches of white sand beaches and emerald-green waters. The beach’s shoreline extends about 27 miles. Aside from beach activities, families can engage in various outdoor activities such as arcades, go-karting, golfing, and surfing.

Panama City beach is also home to St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park, where tourists can engage in additional outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. There are also numerous annual events, such as Seabreeze Jazz Festival, which is popular among music lovers across the U.S.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is on the east coast, along the Atlantic Ocean in Volusia County, Florida, just south of St Augustine. Like Panama City Beach, it has a long shoreline that extends about 23 miles. It is one of the largest beaches in the U.S. with hard-packed sand, and a unique beach as cars can drive on it.

Daytona Beach attracts millions of visitors each year. Therefore, it is essential to book your accommodation early to get the best options and discounts. There are numerous activities to enjoy at the beach, including the famous Daytona 500 NASCAR race and the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier. There are also several museums and cultural institutions.

There are plenty of awesome vacation rentals available in Daytona Beach.

Best Beaches in Texas

Beaches in Texas are unique in that they are not crowded. They are a great option if you are looking for a beach destination with ample space and a bit of seclusion. They also offer a unique combination of scenic beauty, wildlife, history, and surfing opportunities. Below are the top three best beaches in Texas for a family vacation.

South Padre Island

South Padre Island is a barrier island along the Gulf shore. It is located in a resort town in Cameron County. The popular beach destination is known for its warm water and soft sand. There are also numerous activities to engage in, like kayaking, fishing, windsurfing, camping, hiking, and beachcombing.

South Padre Island is also home to several parks and centers. At Isla Blanca Park, there are fishing piers, picnic areas, and bird-watching areas. It’s also home to Sea Turtle Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting sea turtles. You could also visit the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center for birdwatching and educational local wildlife tours.

Here is a fantastic beach rental in South Padre Island.

Galveston Island

Galveston Island is a historic island located in Galveston County, Texas, on the Gulf shore. It has a long, sandy shoreline. It is popular for several other destinations, such as the Victorian-era architecture, Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, Moody Gardens, the Galveston Island Railroad Museum, and the Texas Seaport Museum.

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is a vintage amusement park where you can enjoy various games and rides. On the other hand, Moody Gardens is a large botanical park that features an aquarium, pyramid complex, and rainforest exhibit. You can visit the Galveston Island Railroad Museum and the Texas Seaport Museum to learn about the city’s rich Maritime history.

Other notable attractions at the Galveston Island include the Galveston Island Beach Revue, a vintage-style parade that celebrates the city’s beach culture; Dickens on the Strand, a Victorian-era Christmas festival; and East End Historic District and the Strand Historic District, which offer a glimpse into the city’s Victorian-era past.

Here is a perfect beach rental in Galveston.

Port Aransas

If you are looking for a laid-back beach vacation for your family, Port Aransas

is a great destination. It is located on Mustang Island along the Gulf of Mexico in Nueces County, Texas. It offers a chill ambiance and a wide range of outdoor activities.

There are several parks, playgrounds, and areas for birdwatching. There are also several piers and charters for deep-sea and bay fishing. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, there are dolphins, sea turtles, alligators, and a wide variety of birds to see.

The town is also home to several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Sand Fest, a sandcastle building competition, and the Whooping Crane Festival, a celebration of the endangered whooping crane and its migration through the area. If you are keen to learn about the history of Port Aransas maritime, visit the Port Aransas Lighthouse.

Here is a great beach rental in Port Aransas.

Best Beaches in Kentucky

Kentucky is not popular as a beach destination as it is primarily landlocked with no ocean coastlines. However, it is home to several reservoirs and lakes that offer beach-like recreation environments. Below is a look at the top family beach vacation destinations in Kentucky.

Lake Cumberland State Resort Park Beach

Lake Cumberland State Resort Park Beach is one of Kentucky’s most popular beach destinations. It is located in Jamestown, Kentucky, along the shores of Lake Cumberland. Lake Cumberland is one of the largest artificial lakes in the United States.

Lake Cumberland State Resort Park Beach makes for a peaceful getaway destination for families. However, if you want an action-packed beach family vacation, there are numerous recreational activities, including sunbathing, swimming, fishing, boat riding, picnicking, and hiking. Visitors can rent boats, jet skis, and other watercraft from local marinas to enjoy the lake.

Accommodation options for overnight stays include lodges, cabins, and campgrounds.

Nolin Lake State Park Beach

The Nolin Lake State Park Beach is known for its clear, blue waters and scenic views. It is in Mammoth Cave, Kentucky. Visitors can go sunbathing, swimming, boating, fishing, picnics, and hiking. There are campgrounds and rental cabins for easily accessible and affordable accommodation.

If you are keen on exploring the lake, there are multiple boat ramps and marinas where visitors can rent boats, jet skis, and other watercraft. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an activity-packed getaway for your family, Nolin Lake State Park Beach is a great option.

Here are some great vacation rentals in Williamstown and Caldwell County, Kentucky.

Best Beaches in Tennessee

Like Kentucky, Tennessee is a landlocked state. It does not have ocean shorelines. However, there are lovely beaches along River Tennessee and other bodies of water within the state, where you can enjoy a fun beach vacation with your family. Below are the top three beach vacation destinations for families in Tennessee.

Douglas Lake Beach, Dandridge

Douglas Lake Beach is located along Douglas Lake in Dandridge, Tennessee. Douglas Lake is a large artificial lake created by the Tennessee Valley Authority. As a tourist destination, it is popular for sunbathing, picnicking, and birdwatching.

The lake is surrounded by hills and mountains that offer scenic views. If you are a photographer, there is a lot to capture. On the beach, you will find amenities such as grills, picnic tables, and restrooms for a comfortable stay. Several hiking trails, parks, and camping sites at Douglas Lake Beach provide unlimited outdoor adventure and exploration opportunities.

Watts Bar Lake Beach, Spring City

Watts Bar Lake Beach is near Watts Bar Lake in Spring City, Tennessee. It is one of the largest water reservoirs in Tennessee, created by the Tennessee Valley Authority, covering over 39,000 acres of land.

As a tourist destination for families, it offers diverse recreational opportunities, including boating, swimming, fishing, and water skiing. There are a variety of fish species in the lake, such as catfish, sunfish, crappie, and largemouth bass. The lake is surrounded by hills and mountains, offering a scenic view and opportunities for hiking and camping.

The Watts Bar Dam is located near the lake, and you can visit to learn about the Tennessee Valley Authority’s history and technology.

Hilton Head Island Beach

Hilton Head Island Beach is in Knoxville. It is known for its white sand and crystal-clear water. The environment is generally peaceful and serene. Visitors enjoy a wide range of activities on the beach, including swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. There is also an opportunity to enjoy the waters through kayaking and boating. Or, you can also set up a picnic at the beach.

Several accommodation options are available near Hilton Head Island Beach, including hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds to suit your needs and budget.

Looking for a great beach rental in West Nashville? Look no further.

 

Best Beaches in California

California is a great destination for the best family beach vacations. There are numerous family-friendly beaches with recreational activities and amenities. In addition, some beaches have museums and aquariums. The year-round temperate California climate means that you can take a beach vacation on the iconic beaches any time of the year. Below are the top three best family-friendly beaches in California.

Coronado Beach

Whether you are looking to explore the beach or its history and culture, Coronado Beach is one of the best family-beach destinations in California. It is in the city of Coronado, California, near San Diego. It has wide, sandy shores and gentle surf.

Coronado Beach is famous for the Hotel del Coronado. The Victorian-style hotel is a National historic landmark that has been in operation since 1888 and has hosted famous guests, including presidents, over the years. You can explore the hotel’s rich history and unique architecture.

You can do numerous other activities at Coronado beach, like swimming, surfing, kayaking, sunbathing, or taking a walk or bike ride on the boardwalk. You can also visit the Coronado Ferry Landing for a scenic view of the bay, shopping, or dining. Or, simply take a scenic drive or bike ride through Coronado Island.

Here is a great beach rental in San Diego county.

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is located between Los Angeles and San Diego in Southern California. The area enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, moist winters. Aside from the beautiful beaches, it is also known for its vibrant cultural scene. Therefore, if you are looking for a beach destination where your family can relax and enjoy exciting outdoor activities such as fine art, Laguna Beach has something for everyone.

It is home to several nature reserves and state parks, including the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and the Crystal Cove State Park, which offer opportunities to hike, camp, and observe wildlife. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as the Sawdust Art Festival, the Festival of Arts, and the Pageant of the Masters.

Venice Beach

Venice Beach is located along the Pacific Ocean shoreline in Los Angeles, California. Its long history dates back to the early 20th century when Abbot Kinney established a seaside resort on the beach.

It has grown in popularity over the years to become one of the most eclectic neighborhoods in Los Angeles. It is particularly popular among artists, musicians, and freethinkers. It is famous for the Muscle beach, street performances, boardwalk, and colorful street art. The beach has a laid-back, bohemian vibe that gives you a peek view of the carefree lifestyle of Southern California.

Venice Beach is considered a family-friendly location. The wide, sandy beach and warm waters allow families to enjoy walks on the sand, the boardwalk, and activities such as swimming and sunbathing. There are various recreational areas and amenities for people of all ages.

Here is a great beach rental in Oceanside, California.

Best Beaches in New Jersey

The New Jersey beach scene offers a lot to explore. From swimming, fishing, and surfing to boardwalks. There is also a rich history to learn and scenic landscapes to observe, such as beaches, rock cliffs, and lush dunes. Below are the three best beaches for family vacations in New Jersey.

Ocean City Beach

Ocean City Beach is on the eastern coast of the Delmarva Peninsula, along the Atlantic Ocean on the east coast. It offers about 10 miles of clean, white soft sand and mild surf. Ocean City is also popular for its saltwater taffy.

This beach resort town is family-friendly and easily accessible to children and adults of all ages. The southern side of the beach is busy. A three-mile boardwalk offers an excellent spot for seafront dining and people-watching.

There is also an action-packed amusement park, an arcade, and mini-golf for fun activities. On the other hand, if you want a quieter environment, head to the northern side of the beach, past the boardwalk.

Cape May Beach

Cape May Beach is in the coastal region of Cape May, along the Atlantic Flyway. The beach is famous for its vast, sandy shorelines, abundant wildlife, and historic Victorian homes. You can engage in swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and surfing.

This beach is particularly popular with birders. There are a variety of birds that flock to the area during spring and fall. If you are into bird watching, you will likely see warblers, orioles, and shorebirds.

There is also plenty of marine life to explore, like dolphins, whales, and seals. You may organize for whale-watching and dolphin-watching tours or trolley and horse-drawn carriage tours.

You may also explore the town’s rich history by its many historic sites and museums, e.g., the Cape May Lighthouse, the Emlen Physick Estate, and the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum.

Island Beach State Park

The Island Beach State Park is a protected natural area in Ocean County, New Jersey. It is a barrier island along the Atlantic Ocean. The protected area takes up about 10,000 acres of diverse habitats, including salt marshes, sandy beaches, and woodlands. Also, there is a variety of wildlife, including a variety of bird species, sea turtles, and marine mammals.

Aside from activities on the beach, families can participate in ranger-led programs and beach walks to learn about the Island beach wildlife and ecosystem. Fishing is only allowed for saltwater fish in designated fishing areas.

Best Beaches in North Carolina

There are many beaches in North Carolina suitable for family vacations. Some have wide, sandy beaches with shallow water that make them safe for kids; others offer a wide range of activities, including fishing, kayaking, amusement parks, arcades, and boardwalks.

Below is a look at some of the best family-friendly beaches in North Carolina.

Crystal Coast

Crystal Coast beach is in the southern Outer Banks of North Carolina. It is best known for its clear, calm turquoise waters and abundant sea life. The beach is wide with soft sand. As such, it offers families a wide range of activities to enjoy together, including swimming, sunbathing, playing, kayaking, fishing, beach combing, and stand-up paddle boarding.

The Crystal Coast beach is also near various cultural attractions, such as historical sites, art galleries, and museums. Most notably, it is near Fort Macon State Park, where you can visit to get a glimpse of military history in the area.

The Carteret County Historical Society is also nearby, showcasing the region’s cultural heritage. Therefore, aside from relaxing on the beach, you can include some explorative activities in your itinerary.

Carolina Beach

Carolina beach is an excellent destination for families. It offers relaxation and numerous fun activities to entertain children and adults.

There are miles of sandy beaches and clear, shallow blue waters for activities such as swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and playing on the waves. If you love exploring deep waters, you can kayak, paddleboard, or kiteboard at the beach.

At the Carolina Beach boardwalk, there are a variety of attractions, including amusement parks, a fishing pier, and an arcade.  Another great attraction in the area is the Carolina Beach state park which offers a panoramic view of the coast.  It also gives access to the Sugarloaf dune, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach is in New Hanover County, North Carolina. National Geographic voted it as the best North Carolina beach and a top surfing destination. The barrier sea island is famous for its sparkling turquoise blue water and miles of pristine shoreline.

There are numerous water adventure activities, including kiteboarding, paddle boarding, sailing, surfing, etc. Lifeguards are positioned strategically throughout the beach to ensure you and your family are safe. The only downside to Wrightsville Beach is that it is prone to rip currents. Therefore, look out for safety warnings throughout the beach.

Best Beaches in Hawaii

Oahu

If your family would love to explore history, culture, and museums, besides spending time on the beach, the Oahu beach is a great destination. It is a cosmopolitan island with a city vibe. There are multi lane freeways, large buildings and traffic on the island.

The city setting offers a wide range of activities. Besides, the cost of living here is lower, therefore, you are able to stretch your dollar. On the downside, the island is crowded which can make it difficult to navigate.

There are numerous cultural activities at the Oahu beach. For instance, there are interactive exhibits at the Lolani palace and Bishop Museum. The Royal Hawaiian Center offers a free evening show about Hawaii’s history and culture that also includes hula and songs.

If you want to experience the countryside, the Kualoa Ranch offers tours to see the spectacular mountains, waterfalls, and jagged cliffs. Also, there are fun activities such as horse riding or weeding and walking in the mud.

Maui Beach

Maui Beach is a great destination if you’re looking for a luxury family beach vacation. There are numerous luxury resorts along the valley aisle. Each beach resort is family-friendly, with amenities such as huge pools and waterslides.

In addition, there are numerous activities that you can engage in at the shoreline, e.g., boat tours and snorkeling. You could also visit the Maui Ocean Center, the largest living reef aquarium in the Northern Hemisphere. It offers an easy and safe way for kids to experience marine life. There is an underwater tunnel with a beautiful view of sharks, manta rays, and other large fish.

Beyond the beach, there is a lot to explore including farm tours. One of the most popular excursions while at the beach is a short hike to the Haleakala National park, to see the beautiful Haleakala volcano crater.

The whale season is between mid-December and mid-April. If you are visiting Maui Beach at this time of the year, include a whale watching adventure in your itinerary. There are thousands of humpback whales migrating from Alaska to Hawaii for their breeding and birthing season.

You could also take a trip to the historic Lahaina town. It is the former capital of Hawaii. Here, you can have lunch at one of the restaurants, sit under the Banyan tree for an ice cream treat, or shop at the souvenir shops.

Poipu Beach

Poipu beach is located on the south shore of the island of Kauai in Hawaii. It stands out for its large, crescent-shaped stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. This beach is also surrounded by tropical vegetation that provides shade and privacy.

You can engage in activities such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and surfing or simply sit back and watch the sunset. There are several amenities at the beach, including restrooms, showers, restaurants, picnic areas.

Poipu beach is home to unique marine wildlife such as Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles, and a variety of tropical fish. If you can snorkel, you can also take a short trip slightly off-shore to see vibrant color reefs and different colorful tropical fish. There are also hiking and walking trails nearby.

Colorado

Colorado is another beautiful destination for family beach vacationing. Although it is landlocked, the Centennial State has various scenic, fun-filled beaches for families. Most beaches are on the lake shores and provide perfect spots to swim and lounge. Here are a few options:

Aurora Reservoir Beach

Aurora Reservoir Beach extends for miles along the shoreline of the man-made Aurora reservoirs. There are shallow areas where children can engage in activities such as swimming and sunbathing. In addition, there are playgrounds, picnic tables, and grills for family fun. The reservoir is surrounded by mountains that offer a great view.

Note that there are no accommodations near the beach. However, there are hotels, motels, and vacation rental properties in the nearby towns.

Cherry Creek State Park Beach

Cherry Creek State Park is located in Arapahoe County, Colorado. The 880-acre park offers a variety of recreation facilities, including a beach on the shoreline of the Cherry Creek Reservoir. You can engage in a wide range of water-based activities at the park, including swimming, fishing, boating. There is a marina on site where you can rent a boat and fishing supplies. Also, there are hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds near the beach.

Regarding accommodation, there are a variety of camping options within the park, including RV sites and tent camping. There are no resorts and hotels within the park. However, you can find options in nearby towns such as Aurora and Denver.

Conclusion

If you are planning a beach vacation for your family, there are numerous destinations across the U.S. to choose from. The best place for your family vacation depends on your location, budget, and preferred activities.

While some beaches mainly offer water-based activities, others are located in close vicinity to national parks and mountains, providing additional outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and nature trails; others are located near museums and art galleries.

The best beach vacation destinations for families have clear, shallow, and safe waters. They also have essential amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, playgrounds, and restaurants. Accommodation should be easily accessible and affordable.