Family playing together at a sunny beach with sandcastles and ocean waves.
Destination

15 Best Summer Beach Destination for Families

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Our Family’s First Real Summer Beach Adventure

 

As a dad, I will never forget our first summer beach vacation. My wife and I loaded up the minivan with floaties, snacks, sunscreen, and two extremely excited kids for a week of sun and surf. We chose a secluded, kid-friendly beach where they could play safely while we got to relax under the umbrella. The shell-collecting, giggles, and sunset walks bonded us in a way that daily life does not. That trip ignited a travel passion in our family—and inspired me to research the best summer beach vacations for families like yours.

 

 

  1. Clearwater Beach, Florida

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Soft white sand, calm shallow waters, and sunshine all year round.

Clearwater Beach is a top pick for families with small children. Gentle waves make it ideal for playful safety, and there’s always something entertaining going on at Pier 60, whether it’s street performers or sunset celebrations. Be sure to visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where rescued dolphins and sea turtles are cared for.

 

 

  1. Maui, Hawaii

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Mellow beaches, Hawaiian culture, and family activities.

Maui is loaded with beautiful beaches like Napili Bay, great for young swimmers. Families love to find waterfalls along the Road to Hana, a luau, or the Maui Ocean Center. It’s laid-back but loaded with memories that won’t soon be forgotten.

 

 

  1. Outer Banks, North Carolina

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Historic charm and wide, long beaches

Outer Banks is perfect for nature-loving, space-loving families. Build sandcastles on isolated beaches, visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial, and climb historic lighthouses. Rent a beach house and enjoy lazy days in the ocean.

 

 

  1. San Diego, California

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Perfect weather, family-friendly attractions, and gentle waves.

San Diego has a lot more than beaches, including San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND, and SeaWorld. Coronado Beach is a crowd-pleaser with its gleaming sand and mild waves. There are bike paths, beachfront playgrounds, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants too.

 

 

  1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

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Boardwalk attractions, amusement parks, and wide beaches

Myrtle Beach is packed with fun for every age. Stroll along the legendary boardwalk, take a ride on the SkyWheel, and spend evenings challenging each other to mini-golf. Some beachfront resorts offer lazy rivers, splash zones, and children’s entertainment.

 

 

  1. Virginia Beach, Virginia

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Mild waves, lively boardwalk, and family-friendly attractions

Virginia Beach merges beach leisure and family amusement. Kids can go to the Virginia Aquarium, spend time at Ocean Breeze Waterpark, and watch live acts on the boardwalk. The flat, clean beach is ideal for all-day fun.

 

 

  1. Destin, Florida

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Emerald waters, boat trips, and family activities.

Destin is called the “Emerald Coast” because of its clear water. There are pirate cruises, dolphin cruises, and the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park to entertain families. It’s a lively beach town that’s still relaxed and kid-friendly.

 

 

  1. Cape May, New Jersey

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Victorian charm, clean beaches, and family activities.

Cape May brings together beach recreation and old-fashioned charm. Visit the Cape May Lighthouse, take a trolley ride, and enjoy homemade ice cream. The serene beaches and slower pace are ideal for young kids.

 

 

  1. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

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Sheltered beaches, bike trails, and educational nature centers.

Hilton Head is a peaceful retreat perfect for families. Rentals of bikes and island touring together, or kayaking in tranquil waters, are good choices. The Coastal Discovery Museum is fun and educational, and some resorts offer children’s programs.

 

 

  1. Siesta Key, Florida

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Cool, powdery white sand and clear, shallow water.

Siesta Key boasts the softest sand in the nation—99% quartz! It stays cool to the touch and perfect for children to run and play, and the waves are gentle enough to permit young swimmers, while the laid-back vibe provides parents the freedom to relax and let go.

 

 

  1. Ocean City, Maryland

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Classic boardwalk, carnival rides, and family-friendly activities

Ocean City provides big-time fun. The three-mile boardwalk is packed with rides, games, and treats like funnel cakes. The beach is clean, the lifeguards are friendly, and the town provides free summer events like movies and concerts on the beach.

 

 

  1. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

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Small-town beach charm with big entertainment.

Rehoboth Beach boasts a tidy boardwalk, classic arcade games, and an amusement water park nearby. The beach itself is simple to access and tidy, and the nearby shops and eateries are welcoming to families. It is perfect for first-time beachgoers.

 

 

  1. Gulf Shores, Alabama

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Warm water, kid-friendly beaches, and great seafood

Gulf Shores is a hidden gem for a family beach vacation. Kayak at Gulf State Park, see animals at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, or build huge sandcastles on the calm beach. There is even fresh seafood that the whole family will love.

 

 

  1. Cannon Beach, Oregon

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Unique scenery and activities for all the family

Cannon Beach is well-known for its huge Haystack Rock and tide pools full of ocean animals. Stroll along the sandy beach, visit the nearby Ecola State Park, and enjoy beach bonfires. Not as hot as tropical beaches, but just as beautiful.

 

 

  1. Coronado Beach, California

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Mild waves, golden sands, and the historic Hotel del Coronado

A bridge away from San Diego, Coronado Beach is perfect for families. The flat, wide beach is great for young children to safely play in the water. Bike rentals, a visit to the historic hotel, and a sunny, relaxing day at the ocean create a great day.

 

 

Plan a Beach Vacation the Whole Family Will Love

Nothing brings families together like a week of sun at the beach. From dolphin-watching in Florida to cycling in Hilton Head and game-playing along Ocean City’s boardwalk, the right beach town can create lifelong memories. These 15 summer beach towns are safe, fun, and full of the kinds of activities your kids will be talking about for years to come. So pack up the sunscreen, slide on your flip-flops, and get ready to discover your next family favorite.

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