Best Family Beach Vacations in the USA
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.
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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. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Outer Banks
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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. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Maui
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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. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in San Diego
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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. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Myrtle Beach
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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. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Sanibel Island
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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. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Honolulu - Oahu
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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. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Cape Cod
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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. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Virginia Beach
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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. Read More»
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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. Read More»
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