Why worry about going abroad when you can spend your vacation enjoying the sun and the sand here in the good ol' USA? Some of the world's best beaches are just a hop, skip, and a jump from your own backyard. Whether it's the cool shores of Malibu, the dramatic sands of Hawaii or the festive spots in the east coast, these U.S. beach destinations will not disappoint.
#1
Outer Banks
Why go: North
Carolina's Outer Banks has a wide array of beaches that are especially
prized for their consistent-yet-manageable waves and beautiful natural
landscape. You can also count on OBX to deliver great summer weather. To
save some dough on accommodations, consider skipping the hotel in favor
of a cottage or condo rental. This will give you more space for family
time and, since many rentals sit on the shore, prime beach access
Maui
Why go: While cost is a
barrier for any family beach vacation, it's an especially large barrier
in Hawaii. Still, Maui contains some of the most abundant and exotic
family-friendly sands in the United States. Wailea Beach
is the obvious go-to, with golden shoreline plenty of umbrellas to go
around. But the kids will also enjoy building castles with the red sands
of Kaihalulu or the black sands of Waianapanapa State Park.
San Diego
Why go: San Diego
remains a top-ranked family beach destination for its access to calm,
family-friendly, and lifeguard-patrolled beaches. Mission Beach
is the star here, with miles of creamy sands easily accessible from the
downtown area. La Jolla's shoreline is also popular, especially among
families with younger children. The northern coastline boasts calmer
waters perfect for novice swimmers.
Myrtle Beach
Why go: The oceanfront
at Myrtle Beach is famous for attracting families to sunbathe and swim
on the East Coast. But after you've devoted a fair amount of time to the
beach, take advantage of the numerous other family-friendly things to do. Kids will especially enjoy a visit to the Family Kingdom Amusement Park and Ripley's Aquarium. Just be sure to wear plenty of sunblock, as the South Carolina sun can be unforgiving.
#5
Sanibel Island
Why Go: Sanibel Island
is a hit with kids for two reasons. First, the "Sanibel Scoop"—the
island's pastime—keeps little ones occupied for hours, combing the wide
beaches
for shells and sand dollars. Second, they love the local dessert:
Chocolate pudding fruit hits a home run in both taste and health
benefits. If you're not yet convinced, note that hotel deals are pretty easy to find here.
#6
Honolulu - Oahu
Why go: Oahu is
expensive, which is a serious drawback for some families. But the island
is still widely regarded as the best Hawaiian beach destination for
families. The most family-friendly beaches are in Waikiki,
where waters remain relatively calm throughout the year and are watched
by lifeguards. And should you tire of the beach, you'll find plenty of
things to do that cater to all age groups, like the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial and the Waikiki Aquarium.
Cape Cod
Why Go: On quirky Cape Cod, your family can learn about the country's first residents at the Pilgrim Monument, go whale-watching in lively Provincetown, and tackle the scavenger hunt at the Sandwich Glass Museum. At night, pile the whole family in the car and catch a flick at the Wellfleet Drive-in. Just make sure you save some time to kick back and relax along one of the Cape's golden beaches.
#8
Virginia Beach
Why go: The beach-and-boardwalk combo rarely disappoints, and the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
is no different. The wooden-planked walkway provides easy access to the
golden Atlantic coast, not to mention a variety of games, shops, and
kid-friendly eateries. And because you can only spend so much time
cruising the boardwalk, devote some attention to educational attractions
like the Virginia Aquarium and First Landing State Park.
U.S. Virgin Islands
Why go: One of the most
affordable and accessible Caribbean destinations (and one of the few
eligible for "American" status), the US Virgin Islands contains a host
of welcoming beaches, family-friendly hotels and interesting historic attractions. The Virgin Islands National Park provides accessible hiking trails for family excursions.
Fort Lauderdale
Why go: Unlike Miami Beach,
Fort Lauderdale has been able to shake its reputation for rowdiness and
now boasts all the makings of a quality family getaway. The Fort Lauderdale Beach is both expansive and safe, and resorts
along the beach also contain many child-friendly amenities, including
large kids' clubs, pools and playgrounds. The city also boasts plenty of
family-friendly eateries
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