26 Incredible US East Coast Family Beaches to try in 2023

Best East Coast Beaches for Families in the US

The entire east coast of the US has some gorgeous beaches. Who wouldn’t love to sink their feet into the sand and relax in front of scenic views? Here are some of the best beaches on the east coast for families and the best family accommodations.

1. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Ask any beach addict, and they’ll tell you that Rehoboth Beach is one of the best east coast family beaches in the US. It is a popular destination in the beach town of Delaware, with many fun options to keep your family together. Visit the boardwalk for eateries, shops, and free concerts on a summer night.

Rehoboth Beach is a fun place for kids where they can enjoy exciting activities and rides in the Funland amusement park and Jungle Jim’s complex. The small beach museum is a must-visit to see everything from vintage postcards to old bathing suits. Don’t miss the natural fauna at Cape Henlopen State Park (more below!).

Where to stay: On a budget try Anchorage Motel just off the beach, or for luxury, try Boardwalk Plaza Hotel overlooking the beach

2. Duck, North Carolina

Ensconced in the lap of the Outer Banks, Duck is one of the most scenic beaches in the east coast region. The quaint island of Duck offers a view of the vast ocean. You’ll also enjoy the calm and picturesque Currituck Sound, the only freshwater sound in this region.

You’ll find private accommodation options from seaside cottage rentals to luxury stays here. These are perfect for families wanting to spend some quiet time near the beaches. You can take walks to the village and find shops and eateries to enjoy a fun time together as a family. Don’t forget to bring along some toys for babies to keep them entertained if you have little ones who aren’t old enough to appreciate the lovely setting.

The beach is not overly crowded, so we love that canopy tents are welcome to provide you with a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Where to stay: On a budget try John Yancey Oceanfront Inn or more luxurious try Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks in Kitty Hawk

3. Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island offers one of the best beaches in South Carolina for families. Lined with tall oak trees and moss, this island offers beautiful beaches and lighthouses. Thus, you get a view that your kids will continue to turn into paintings till your next vacation.

We love that there are so many fun activities for kids in Hilton Head; Climb atop a lighthouse for an unforgettable panorama or enjoy the gentle waves, perfect for young children. The adventurous older kids can enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding or take advantage of the multiple beach biking paths on this island.    

Where to stay: On a budget try Okatie Hilton Head Hotel or for luxury try Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa

Hot sunny day at the beach? With young children especially, you will need to consider investing in a pop-up beach tent

4. Tybee Island, Georgia

Tybee Island is a small but culturally rich city that beckons visitors with its storied past. It is also lined with one of the best east coast beaches where you can take your family on an unforgettable vacation. Besides five mesmerizing beaches, the place has picturesque dunes.

Here on Tybee Island, you can watch the sun dipping into the horizon and spot dolphins. Don’t miss the tallest and oldest lighthouse in the state. Take your family on a hike to Fort Pulaski, where you can enjoy bird-watching and biking – and follow it up with a boat ride and seafood dinner.

Where to stay: Try a beach vacation rental home like this superb cottage through VRBO or for a quaint boutique beach stay Tybee Island Inn Bed & Breakfast

5. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Bordering the southeastern coast of the City of Virginia is Virginia Beach, with a family-friendly environment. It is an excellent location to visit with your kids. They will thank you for the thrilling trip, with experiences of go-karting and spotting wildlife at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

Don’t forget to take the young ones to Chick’s Beach. Here, the waves are gentle enough to keep the little ones safe as they swim in the ocean. With various hotels, restaurants, and shopping destinations for both luxury trips and budget vacays, you can plan a Virginia coastal trip that suits your pocket.     

Where to stay: On a budget try Candlewood Suites Virginia Beach Town or luxury try Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront

6. St. Augustine Beach, Florida

With picture-perfect beaches, colonial architecture, and extraordinary wildlife, St. Augustine is more than one of the best east coast beaches in Florida. It is one of the ideal spots for a family trip, with a little something for everyone. It provides a wide range of activities, besides breathtaking views. 

Discover the city’s macabre past on a ghost tour through the historic Old Town. Admire the fantastic furnishing of the Victorian era at Villa Zorayda Museum. Take an airboat safari to see Florida’s wildlife in the freshwater wetlands of St. Johns River. Looking for more ideas? Check out this list of things to do in St. Augustine.

In this coastal location on Anastasia Island, you can try your hand at fishing at St. Johns County Pier. Here, the kids can have fun at the beach-facing park. Don’t miss the Ocean Hammock Park where you’ll picnic spots to pool up with your cooler and nature trails – not to forget the sea turtle nesting areas!    

Where to stay: On a budget try Quality Inn & Suites St Augustine Beach or for luxury try Embassy Suites St Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort

7. Kiawah Island, South Carolina

If you’re looking for a secluded destination to have a quiet getaway with your family, Kiawah Island is an excellent spot for you. This quiet South Carolina beach location has lots to offer to all your family members. From young adventure-seekers to older nature-lovers: everyone will enjoy it here.

If you love golf, you’ll love this location because it is one of the premier golf regions in this part of the country. Experience luxury at the villas facing the ocean with private beach frontage and hang out on the sandy stretches to enjoy the sunset. You can also go snorkeling, diving, and swimming with dolphins! 

With its soft, white sandy expanses and few crowds for much of the year, it’s the perfect spot to pitch your pop-up beach tent and settle in for a full day of beach fun.

Where to stay: Try Andell Inn for a boutique stay or rent a whole beachfront cottage with resort access

8. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Everybody knows that Myrtle Beach is one of the most pocket-friendly US beach vacation destinations. It is also quite easy to access, making it a popular choice for families. You can hang out at the beautiful beaches with your family and bask in the glorious rays of the sun.

The exciting thing about Myrtle Beach is that it is more than a family beach. You’ll have lots of fun things to do with your family. From shows to retail therapy, from go-karting to devouring delicious food – it’s all here. Your kids will also enjoy the Wonderworks Amusement Park and Ripley’s Museum.

Where to stay: On a budget try Grand Shores or for luxury try Marriott’s OceanWatch Villas at Grande Dunes

9. Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Old Orchard Beach is one of the favorite locations for US families because of the engaging entertainment options for both children and adults. The beach area is absolutely safe, with lifeguards stationed all around to keep an eye on your security. You can also enjoy long walks and sunbathing.

If you’re an adventurous soul, don’t miss the opportunities to go bodysurfing, jet skiing, and kayaking. You must also visit the Pier where you can shop till you drop and enjoy delicious seafood. You can also visit Palace Playland, a beachfront amusement park with rides for both adults and toddlers.

Where to stay: On a budget try Crosswinds Motel or luxury you can’t go past The Beachwood

10. Nantucket, Massachusetts

With a heavenly coastal stretch of 80 miles, Nantucket Island is a massive draw for vacationers, especially families. Along this stretch, Children’s Beach will be your family’s instant favorite, which has a fairly self-explanatory name. You’ll be relieved to see so many lifeguards keeping an eye on your safety.

Don’t forget the Jetties, with the photogenic Brant Point Lighthouse and the delightful Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge. This region has many other local attractions that will keep you busy. If you’d like to spend more time in the waters, you can charter a yacht for an excursion.

Where to stay: Try close to town Nantucket Periwinkle or your own luxury cottage at White Elephant Hotel

11. Newport, Rhode Island

Long walks along the beach, bird watching, seasonal music concerts – that’s what Newport is all about. Once a colonial town, Newport now harbors a synagogue that is considered the oldest in all of the United States! You’ll also be mesmerized by all the waterfront mansions in this region. The playgrounds and the skate park here should keep the children happy, too. 

You can even enjoy a scenic walk along the Cliff Walk trail, though it’s best not to cover too much of it with young children. That’s because parts of this rocky trail can be somewhat dangerous. There are plenty of hotels and suites near the beach, along with restaurants that offer eclectic menus.

Where to stay: On a budget try Hamilton Village Inn, North Kingstown or for luxury try Castle Hill Inn

12. Vero Beach, Florida

Another excellent vacation spot located in Florida is Vero Beach on the Treasure Coast. Lacking the crowds of tourists that await at many of Florida’s east coast beaches, this small coastal hamlet offers wide sandy beaches and a picturesque beachfront, filled with pelicans, sandpipers, and turtles.

The area is considered an important nesting area for loggerhead turtles. The whole family will enjoy a day trip to the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge to learn about sea turtle conservation. Seafood lovers will also be spoilt for choice and enjoy a stroll through historic downtown, filled with museums, boutique shops and art galleries.

Vero Beach is also a popular choice with Disney fans, given its close proximity to Orlando, as well as being home to the Disney Vero Beach Resort.

Where to stay: On a budget try this oceanfront condo with a pool, or enjoy waterfront sunrises at Prestige Hotel Vero Beach

13. Coney Island, New York

If you think New York City is all about skyscrapers and Times Square, you need to take a trip to Coney Island! Here you will find a family-friendly vacation spot with a soft, inviting sandy stretch. On a beautiful summer day, you’ll find this beach buzzing with families like yours, all relaxing and having fun. It’s the quintessential US city beach experience.

It has a Ferris wheel like the Wonder Wheel and an amusement park-like Luna Park. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a dip in the ocean between the morning and the evening – and follow it up by snacking on hot dogs!  

Not all beach vacations in the US need to be remote; whilst granted you won’t get the state’s softest white sand here it still makes an excellent daycation spot for NYC families.   

Where to stay: On a budget try Best Western Brooklyn-Coney Island Inn or for luxury try a little further afield in Brooklyn The Rockaway Hotel

You can catch more great outdoor ideas here for families in Brooklyn and beyond.

14. Acadia National Park, Maine

For a unique vacation that’s nothing like your run-of-the-mill, fun-in-the-sun trip to the beach, Acadia National Park is an excellent east coast vacation destination. While its two beaches are the main attraction, you can also enjoy the stunning lakes and ponds here. It’s a serene place in the arms of Mother Nature, and a must-visit east coast National Park for every family.

Sand Beach has an unforgettable view of rocky cliffs and crashing waves. The other beach lines Echo Lake and is a calm spot amidst lush greenery, perfect for swimming with the family. Bicycle rides are particularly enchanting here, and you can also take a hike along the famed Ocean Path.

Where to stay: nearby, on a budget try High Seas Motel in Bar Harbor, or luxury try The Inn on Mount Desert. Campers staying in the National Park need to book in advance with recreation.gov with a rolling 60-day window.

15. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Martha’s Vineyard is skirted by around twelve beaches, most of which are open to visitors. The most popular public beaches are in the south, though, and you can enjoy a gala time with your family in this stretch of the island. There’s a lot to do here, including a picnic on the beach.

With soft white sand and big beautiful waves, Long Point Beach and South Beach are absolute must-visits, especially if you want to try bodyboarding. There’s also a private lake in the Long Point Wildlife refuge, which is perfect for kids. Don’t miss the delicious food and sunset at the rocky Menemsha Beach.   

Where to stay: Pure luxury, of course! Has to be Harbor View Hotel or rent your own cottage is Tisbury

16. Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware

Cape Henlopen State Park, with more than 5000 acres of shores, is a place of wild beauty. It is the ideal US beach vacation destination in the east coast area for any adventurous family that wants to go hiking or horseback riding. The forests and marshlands in this region make the place unique and exciting.

The rolling waves and the meandering beach are perfect for spotting dolphins and building sandcastles with the kids. On the other hand, the bayside offers calm waters, and the Cape Henlopen Lighthouse adorns the view in front of you.

There are many activities here, ranging from camping trips to nearby aquarium visits, sure to keep the family active and engaged on their east coast beach vacation.

Where to stay: In nearby Lewes, try Home2 Suites by Hilton. For campsites and cabins in the State Park and cottages at Indian River Marina book through this link

17. Fire Island, New York

Fire Island National Seashore is yet another incredible beach destination found off Long Island, New York, ready to embrace you with the beauty of nature. Here you can enjoy miles of beaches and dunes, as well as a sunken maritime forest. It is the ideal place for kids to enjoy walks, safely ride their bikes and observe flora and fauna.

Make sure to take your family to this island’s iconic lighthouse, where you will find an interactive museum. There are 17 small beach communities in total along the sandbar shoreline with houses on rent, perfect for families. And the real magic of Fire Island? You can only reach it by ferry, the island is completely car-free!

Where to stay: There are no big chain hotels here, why not try a beachfront cottage to yourselves or camping and glamping can be booked through lovefins.com

18. Wilmington, North Carolina

Is your family a mix of fun-lovers and peace-seekers? Then, Wilmington is one of the best US beach vacation destinations on the east coast, with a little bit of both. There are three public beaches: Carolina, Kure, and Wrightsville. Each of these offers a different mood and environment for different types of families.

Wrightsville Beach will be ideal for you if you’re looking for surfing and sunbathing experiences, paired with great seafood. Kure Beach, on the other hand, is a place for quiet walks, collecting seashells, and making sandcastles. Carolina Beach’s boardwalk offers amusements that every kid loves!

Where to stay: On a budget try Country Inn & Suites by Radisson or right on the beach try Holiday Inn Resort Wilmington East Wrightsville Beach

19. Ocean City, Maryland

Families looking for US beach vacation destinations love Ocean City with its enormous beach and ample facilities. Patrolled regularly by lifeguards, it is one of the safest places to enjoy a beach experience, even with kids. The boardwalk offers restaurants, shopping locations, and play areas. 

There’s also an amusement park where you and the kids can indulge in plenty of games and rides. Ocean City is also a great place to try jet skiing and sea fishing. For a unique experience, visit the Assateague Island National Seashore, where you’ll find dreamy wild horses roaming around. 

Where to stay: On a budget try Quality Inn & Suites Oceanblock or luxury try Cambria Hotel Ocean City

20. Cape May, New Jersey

This historic city is a seaside gem! The entire city is a National Historic District with over 600 preserved Victorian buildings that can be seen on a trolley tour. But family-friendly? Absolutely! Beachfront promenades beckon along with the oldest working lighthouse in the country.

Cape May is a great spot, for families who love to mix their beaches with exploring and adventure. The Atlantic surf is brilliant for kids who want to grab their Boogie Board and hit the waves or your older thrill-seekers can try their hand at parasailing or jet ski.

A day trip out on the Cape May Whale Watcher is a must for whale and dolphin spotting, or take a kayak through the inland marshes.

Where to stay: On a budget try Diamond Crest Motel, Wildwood or luxury try La Mer Beachfront Resort. Holly Shores Camping Resort is perfect for onsite cabins and RV’s

21. Bethany Beach, Delaware

If you find the bright lights of Ocean City and Rehoboth not quite to your taste and want a slightly more rustic and relaxed east coast beach vacation, Bethany Beach in Delaware could be that serene escape that you’re hoping for. Bethany Beach still has a boardwalk, though it is low-key and lacks the loud amusement rides and arcades, which can be some families’ idea of bliss!!

Don’t worry, there’s still plenty to keep the kids amused from mini-golf to weekly bonfire nights and movies on the beach in summer. Is the ideal place we’d recommend for a relaxed, multi-generation group gathering on a peaceful part of the east coast.

Where to stay: On a budget try the simple but well-appointed and located Hotel Bethany Beach, or Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn by Marriott is a great family choice with family rooms overlooking the beach.

22. Madison, Connecticut

Connecticut is probably not the first place that springs to mind when you’re thinking of east coast beach vacation, but for the curious, it DOES have some sandy beachfront! Nature-lovers will adore a trip to the quaint historic town of Madison on Long Island Sound. It has an old beachfront town charm, but be warned, it can be packed with tourists on a hot summer’s day!

Hammonasset Beach State Park offers more than two miles of sandy beachfront amongst its 1000 acres, along with the Meigs Point Nature Center. There are also many trails to explore in the Madison Land Conservation Trust. Make sure you rent some bikes to enjoy the best of the beachfront and the developing Shoreline Greenway Trail, or mountain bikers will be in their place at nearby Rockland Preserve, 650 acres and 17 trails of mountain biking heaven!

Where to stay: Summer camping is a must in the state park (but book early), or if you prefer 4 walls, the Grand Madison Beach Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton will be your top choice for a Connecticut beach vacation

23. Hampton Beach, New Hampshire

A nostalgic east coast family beach vacation experience can be had at Hampton Beach, New Hampshire. There are classics from arcade games to mini-golf for families to enjoy through to the Blue Ocean Discovery Center and Explore the Ocean World Oceanarium.

During summer, the Seashell Stage is the center of attention for movie nights, look out for fireworks on Wednesdays. Hampton Beach State Park is your best bet for a long and wide stretch of powdery sand perfect for sandcastle building and beach games. In August, you can catch the Hampton Beach Children’s Festival.

Where to stay: It’s all about vacation houses here, for a small family try this superb upscale oceanfront condo or try this larger beach condo with a group.

25. Montauk, New York

Worthy of its reputation as one of the best beaches in New York, and on the beast coast, Montauk at the very eastern tip of Long Island, past the Hamptons. Known for its laid-back coastal vibe and as a wonderful place to escape the big smoke – just 3 hours from NYC (traffic dependent!) – it’s clear to see why it’s a favorite getaway for so many families.

Gin Beach is popular with families for its gentle waves, Kirk Beach also offers lifeguards, or Ditch Plains is where to go with your boogie boards and catch some bigger waves.

Think ice creams and candy shops, watercraft rentals from Uihlein’s Marina and Gosman’s Dock for the fish market and seafood restaurants – your quintessential east coast beach vacation (just plan your travel out of peak hour traffic!!)

Where to stay: Book early if you want to camp in Hither Hills State Park this summer or try the Beachcomber Resort at Montauk for a fabulous east coast resort vacation.

26. Amelia Island, Florida

Last but not least, if it’s wide-open spaces and an escape from the crowds you want, you might just find your paradise in Amelia Island, the northeasternmost corner of Florida.

13 miles of unspoiled shoreline, pristine waters, and an abundance of wildlife, this is one of our favorite east coast beaches for families and one of the most beautiful islands in Florida.

Besides the beautiful beachfront at Main Beach Park, Fort Clinch State Park is a must for hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming. Head inland for kayaking or explore the giant sand dunes of Boneyard Beach.

For an unforgettable east coast vacation experience, why not try horseback riding on the beach at Amelia Island State Park?

Where to stay: On a budget, try The Surf Beach Motel, or a luxury stay with a kids club try The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Beach. Campers can book a site in Fort Clinch State Park 11 months in advance.