15 Best Summer Beach Destination for Families
In this post, you will see best summer beach destination for families.
As a dad, I will never forget our first summer beach vacation, which was in The Bahamas.
The Bahamas is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations on earth is the Bahamas.
Despite being hit by Hurricane Dorian late last year, it is an adorable tropical beach vacation destination fully open for business and tourists.
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 our daily life routine does not allow us to.
That trip ignited a travel passion in our family and inspired me to research the best summer beach destination for families just like yours, that can inturn inspire your next vacation.
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Clearwater Beach, Florida
Clearwater Beach is known for its clean sands and calm, beautiful water.
This 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.
With Clearwater Beach attractions such as these, fine restaurants and family-friendly lodgings, as well as exciting beach activities, Clearwater Beach’s many options will have the whole crew smiling
Ensure to visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where rescued dolphins and sea turtles are cared for.
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Maui, Hawaii
The Hawaiian islands feature some of the finest beaches in the world, in addition to the jaw-dropping natural scenery of volcanoes, towering cliffs and thick jungles.
Hawaii is a perfect destination for your beach vacation.
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.
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Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks of North Carolina offers a welcome relief from crowded cities and overrun vacation spots.
It is an amazing natural wonder that has been the source of historic achievements and supported a special way of life for generations.
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.
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San Diego, California
San Diego is also a major city, full of Michelin-starred restaurants, world-class museums, and a strong craft beer scene.
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.
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Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
If you’ve never visited this family resort campground in Myrtle Beach, you might be surprised it’s right in the heart of one of the East Coast’s top beach towns.
It’s tucked away among some of the tallest and oldest pine trees you’ll see in this region.
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.
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Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach is often called one of the happiest places in the country, and it’s easy to see why. It blends calm vibes with exciting things to do, from nature and history to art and amazing food.
Ifyou’re by the Atlantic, the Chesapeake Bay, or exploring the inland waters, there’s always something fun and fresh waiting for you.
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.
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Destin, Florida
Destin, the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, has blossomed into a world-renowned beach destination packed with family-friendly activities.
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.
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Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May, often cited as the country’s first seaside resort, is unique among the beach towns on New Jersey’s 204 kilometers of coast.
It is is busy year-round with tours, concerts, theater and culinary events.
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.
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Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
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.
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Siesta Key, Florida
Siesta Key beaches are an invitation for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Cool, powdery white sand and clear, shallow water.
Siesta Beach shines with its quartz-crystal powdery sand, soft turquoise waves and an abundance of sun and fun.
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.
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Ocean City, Maryland
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.
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Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Located on the Delaware Shores, the Rehoboth Beach & Dewey Beach Resort Area is known for its award-winning boardwalk, awesome hotels, specialty stores, amusements, beautiful homes, tax-free shopping and some of the finest restaurants anywhere.
The Resort Area hosts many events for fun-seekers of all ages…all year round! Spring and fall sidewalk sales are held in May and October, a Street Market in May, Beach Goes Red, White & Blue in September, plus the Scarecrow Trail & Show in September & October.
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.
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Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores is a popular summer beach destination that’s just a short drive from cities like New Orleans, Atlanta, and Nashville, perfect for a regional road trip. It’s a longtime favorite for families, with many coming back year after year.
Beyond the beautiful beaches, you’ll find plenty to do, water sports, local history, fun festivals, amazing seafood, and live music that keeps all ages entertained.
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.
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Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach is a charming seaside town known for its stunning views.
It’s often called the best beach in Oregon, one of the top art towns in the U.S., and even one of the most beautiful places in the world.
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.
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Coronado Beach, California
Coronado’s coastline offers wide sandy beaches with sparkling sand, courtesy of the mineral Mica, that draw visitors from around the world.
Beyond the beach, Coronado features countless outdoor recreational pursuits including sailing, stand-up paddling, surfing, kayaking, and Venetian gondola cruises.
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.