Best Family Beach Vacations in the USA
When you're starved for vacation ideas, there's always the classic American getaway: the beach vacation. And fortunately for Americans, some of the world's best beaches are well within reach. 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.
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 beach attractions in the United States. Writers especially recommend spending at least a day along and around the famed Road to Hana, as well as enjoying a hike along the beaches of Waianapanapa State Park. The beaches on the island's southwest side are usually the calmest. Children will also enjoy the Maui Ocean Center to see the underwater creatures that populate the Pacific.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Maui»
Why go: North Carolina's Outer Banks has a wide array of large beaches that are especially prized for their consistent, but manageable, waves and for great summer weather. Most families rent a house or condominium near the water. The area is also home to Kitty Hawk, the site of the Wright Brother's First Flight, which is appealing to both adults and children.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Outer Banks»
Why go: San Diego remains a top-ranked family beach destination for its access to calm and lifeguard-patrolled beaches and its proximity to adult-friendly and child-friendly attractions. San Diego's La Jolla Beach is considered one of the best beaches on the West Coast for its access to calm water and its general cleanliness. The beaches at La Jolla and elsewhere along San Diego's coastline are also situated near family-friendly attractions, most famously SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo.
Read on: Top Things to Do in San Diego»
Why go: Oahu is expensive, which is a serious drawback for some families, but the island is still widely regarded by travel writers as the best Hawaiian beach destination for families, and also one of the best beach destinations in Hawaii. The most family-friendly beaches are in Waikiki, where waters remain relatively calm throughout the year and are watched by lifeguards. Other family-friendly attractions in Oahu include the Waikiki Aquarium and the Honolulu Zoo.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Honolulu - Oahu»
Why go: The high-rises beyond the boardwalk may not be attractive to some families, but the water and amusements along the boardwalk provide families an excellent East Coast beach destination. The nearby Atlantic Avenue also provides children an opportunity to do some fun souvenir-shopping.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Virginia Beach»
Why go: The oceanfront at Myrtle Beach is famous for attracting families to sunbathe and swim on the East Coast. But writers and travelers always give the same advice: Wear plenty of sunblock, as the South Carolina sun can be unforgiving.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Myrtle Beach»
Why go: Like Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale has the reputation for rowdiness. But beyond that veneer lies a quality family getaway. Family venues are located throughout the area, especially along the canal, where you can find exciting family-friendly restaurants. The resorts along the beach also contain many child-friendly amenities, including large kids' clubs, pools and playgrounds.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale»
Why go: While its reputation often deems Miami Beach as wild and party-crazed, families can indeed have an enjoyable -- even educational -- stay. Several beaches in the area are known for their long stretches of sand and their lifeguard-watched beaches, especially the ones in South Beach. But Miami Beach is more than just a beach destination, with kid-friendly attractions like the Miami Children's Museum.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Miami Beach»
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.
Why go: When it's not hosting Spring Break, South Padre Island makes a great beach getaway for you and the kids. The calm waters of Laguna Madre are perfect for young swimmers, while opportunities to kiteboard, dive and surf will keep the more adventurous teens occupied. When they tire of the beach, take your family to Sea Turtle, Inc. to learn about local wildlife or to Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark for a splashing good time.
Why go: While the wacky sights at Venice Beach may scare away many families, Los Angeles still remains a top family beach destination for its expansive public beaches and proximity to world class attractions. One of the best Los Angeles beaches for families is Santa Monica Beach, which features the famous 3rd Street Promenade, with a large Ferris wheel, rides, games and swim-friendly beaches. Malibu Beach also provides an excellent waterfront for beach activity and water sports.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Los Angeles»
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 on: Top Things to Do in Sanibel Island»
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 on: Top Things to Do in Cape Cod»
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