Beachfront vacations offer easy access to some of nature’s most therapeutic landscapes. Being next to the ocean can reduce stress, boost creativity, and improve your well-being. Staying at a beachfront property ensures you’re always close to the action or relaxation you crave.
Here’s a deeper look at 14 destinations that should top your list for your next beachfront escape.
Cape Canaveral, Florida
Cape Canaveral is most famous for being home to the Kennedy Space Center, where travelers can learn about space exploration and maybe catch a rocket launch. But beyond its cosmic attractions, Cape Canaveral also offers pristine beaches, warm weather, and easy access to water activities, from kayaking to deep-sea fishing.
Nearby getaways include Cocoa Beach Pier, which has beach rentals, showers, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. Boat tours provide opportunities to spot dolphins and manatees. The Brevard Zoo is a fantastic destination, offering interactive exhibits and animal encounters in addition to a wide variety of wildlife.
If you need a place to stay, consider Cape Canaveral Beach Resort, which has spacious rooms, two outdoor pools, a lazy river, mini-golf course, game room, and on-site movie theater.
Galveston Beach, Texas
With its mix of historical architecture, seaside fun, and vibrant cultural scene, Galveston Beach is a great choice for a beachfront vacation. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston Island has miles of sandy shores and multiple unique attractions, including Moody Gardens and the historic Pleasure Pier.
While you’re there, visit Seawall Urban Park, one of the longest continuous sidewalks in the U.S., which provides scenic views, biking paths, and plenty of spots to grab a bite with ocean views. Moody Gardens includes three pyramids with a variety of animal exhibits and interactive displays.
Historic Pleasure Pier: With rides, games, and live entertainment, the Pleasure Pier offers amusement right along the beachfront. It’s a must-visit for families and anyone looking for a touch of nostalgic beachside fun.
Galveston Beach Resort is a great place to stay in Galveston. The resort includes a marketplace, an outdoor infinity pool, a hot tub, sport courts, and frequent kid-friendly activities.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Known as a family-friendly destination, Myrtle Beach has lots of attractions and gorgeous beaches. The area is home to 60 miles of coastline and over 90 golf courses. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is packed with restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Don’t miss the iconic SkyWheel for a panoramic view of the coastline. Just south of Myrtle Beach, Brookgreen Gardens is a beautiful outdoor museum showcasing native plants, sculptures, and historical exhibits. Kids will love Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, which has a variety of thought-provoking exhibits.
Consider staying in Holiday Inn Club Vacations Myrtle Beach Oceanfront, a luxurious new resort with a multi-level oceanfront pool, direct beach access, and on-site bars serving delicious cocktails and Southern-inspired dishes.
Panama City Beach, Florida
Panama City Beach has something for everyone. Located along the Gulf Coast, this destination has clear turquoise waters, making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, and other water activities.
St. Andrews State Park is a favorite among nature lovers for its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Visitors can snorkel, fish, or take a shuttle to Shell Island, a secluded barrier island that feels like a hidden paradise. For shopping, dining, and entertainment, Pier Park is a one-stop destination. This outdoor mall includes a range of restaurants, shops, and an IMAX theater.
A popular place to stay is Panama City Beach Resort. In addition to large, comfortable rooms, this beachfront property has an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a game room, and a fitness center.
Laguna Beach, California
Laguna Beach, California, is a premier beachfront vacation destination. Nestled between Los Angeles and San Diego, this charming seaside town has miles of picturesque beaches and coves, perfect for sunbathing, tide pooling, snorkeling, and surfing. Visitors can explore iconic spots like Main Beach with its iconic boardwalk and basketball courts or take a more tranquil approach by venturing to secluded coves like Thousand Steps Beach.
Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic hiking along trails with breathtaking ocean views. Beyond the sand and surf, Laguna Beach is home to numerous galleries, public art installations, and festivals. The charming downtown area is lined with boutique shops, top-notch restaurants, and cozy cafes.
Waikiki, Hawaii
Waikiki, located on Oahu, is a world-famous beachfront destination. Renowned for its golden sands and calm waters, Waikiki Beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Diamond Head, the iconic volcanic crater that provides a beautiful backdrop to the beach. The consistent weather makes it easy to enjoy the ocean year-round, whether you’re catching waves, going on a cruise, or strolling along the beach at sunset.
Waikiki also offers a dynamic cultural and culinary scene. Kalakaua Avenue is lined with shops, local boutiques, restaurants, and lively entertainment. Explore traditional Hawaiian culture through hula performances or a luau, or take a longer trip to Pearl Harbor or Hanauma Bay’s vibrant coral reefs.
Hilton Head, South Carolina
Hilton Head, South Carolina, is a picturesque beachfront destination celebrated for its natural beauty. The beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply unwinding to the sound of gentle ocean waves.
Visitors can explore Coligny Beach Park, Hilton Head’s most popular oceanfront park, which has beach access, free parking, outdoor showers, and public artworks. The island’s flat, hard-packed sand makes it ideal for beach biking, while calm waters are great kayaking and paddleboarding. Beyond the beach, Hilton Head has multiple world-class courses, an extensive network of bike trails, and dolphin-watching or fishing tours.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach, Oregon, is a gorgeous beachfront vacation destination with a dramatic coastline. The beach itself is famous for Haystack Rock, a towering sea stack rising from the ocean, and it’s home to tide pools filled with colorful marine life. The wide, sandy beach is great for long walks and flying kites.
Nearby Ecola State Park offers hiking trails with stunning views of the coastline. Beyond its natural beauty, Cannon Beach is dotted with galleries, boutiques, and cozy cafes. Visitors can savor fresh seafood at local restaurants or participate in community events like the annual Sandcastle Contest.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks, North Carolina, is a picturesque stretch of barrier islands offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and outdoor adventure. With miles of unspoiled beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, it’s an ideal destination for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, kiteboarding, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
The region is popular among nature lovers, offering opportunities to spot wild horses grazing along the beaches of Corolla. Visitors can also climb historic lighthouses, like the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, or visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial. The islands are also home to quaint coastal towns, like Duck and Nags Head, which feature cute shopping and delicious restaurants.
San Diego, California
San Diego, California, is a top-tier beachfront vacation destination known for its year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, and laid-back coastal vibe. With over 70 miles of coastline, you can choose from a variety of beaches, like Mission Beach and La Jolla. The area is great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing, and exploring tidepools.
Beyond the beach, San Diego offers many, many attractions and activities. Balboa Park is home to world-class museums, gardens, and the renowned San Diego Zoo. The Gaslamp Quarter offers vibrant nightlife and exceptional dining, while Old Town transports visitors back in time with its rich history and authentic Mexican cuisine. Families can enjoy a day at SeaWorld or LEGOLAND, while foodies can explore fresh seafood and craft beer scenes.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket, Massachusetts, is a quintessential New England destination. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the island is home to miles of unspoiled beaches. The coastal scenery, iconic lighthouses, and sand dunes create a picturesque setting that feels like stepping into a postcard.
In addition to its beaches, Nantucket has a rich maritime history, and the town is filled with boutique shops and delicious restaurants. Visitors can explore the Whaling Museum to learn about the island’s past, too. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate activities like sailing, cycling, or birdwatching.
Hampton Beach, New Hampshire
Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, is a classic New England beachfront destination offering fun, relaxation, and scenic beauty. Its wide, sandy beach along the Atlantic Ocean is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the fresh sea breeze. During the summer, the calm waters make it an ideal spot for families. The beach also hosts evening fireworks and free concerts in the summer at the Seashell Stage.
There’s a boardwalk lined with shops, seafood restaurants, and arcades. Visitors can also explore the nearby Hampton Beach State Park, a quieter area ideal for picnicking and nature walks. Deep-sea fishing and whale-watching excursions are readily available, too.
Daytona Beach, Florida
Daytona Beach, Florida, allows cars to drive directly on the shoreline, offering a convenient option for those who don’t want to drag their beach gear from a distant parking lot. There’s plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and swimming.
The beach’s namesake, the Daytona International Speedway, is a must-see for motorsport fans, hosting the Daytona 500 and offering behind-the-scenes tours. The lively Daytona Beach Boardwalk is filled with arcades, restaurants, and shops. Enjoy the nearby Daytona Lagoon water park, go on a scenic boat tour, or explore the area’s nature preserves, perfect for birdwatching and eco-tours.
Just under two hours away is Orange Lake Resort and Orlando Breeze Resort. Both offer the convenience of nearby thrills while being a short drive to the beach. Get two vacations in one!
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach, Virginia, offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and family-friendly fun. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk, stretching along the oceanfront, is a popular spot for walking, cycling, and shopping. Visitors can also explore the nearby Cape Henry Lighthouse, one of the oldest in the U.S., or take part in seasonal events like the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival.
Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, where you can learn about local ecosystems. Nature lovers will enjoy the peaceful trails and wildlife at First Landing State Park, while history enthusiasts can explore the nearby military sites and the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum.
Where to Stay
Holiday Inn Club has exceptional beachfront resorts in popular destinations across the country. While each resort is different, they all have spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and kitchens – so you can save money and stress by making some of your meals and snacks right in your room. Plus right now, they have 4-Day/3-Night Getaways in great spots for as little as $199.
Tips for Planning Your Beachfront Trip
To make the most of your time, keep these tips in mind.
- Book Accommodations Early: Beachfront properties fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Booking ahead ensures you get the best views and prices.
- Consider Weather Conditions: While each destination has an ideal season, be sure to check for seasonal weather patterns, including hurricane season in certain areas, especially if you’re traveling between late summer and early fall.
- Research Local Attractions: Make a list of must-see attractions and plan for a mix of relaxing beach days and sightseeing activities. Many beach towns have unique local shops and restaurants worth exploring.
- Stay Hydrated and Protected: Coastal sun and heat can be intense, so stay hydrated and reapply sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days.
Packing for a Beach Vacation
Start with the basics: pack lightweight clothing such as swimsuits, cover-ups, and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen for daytime, and don’t forget a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Essential beach gear includes sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and a beach towel or blanket. A beach bag to carry snacks, water, and your favorite books or music can help you enjoy the day by the water.
For added comfort, bring flip-flops or water shoes, and consider a waterproof phone case to protect your devices. Lastly, if you’re planning on outdoor activities, pack a reusable water bottle, a camera, and a small first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids and insect repellent. Some beaches are equipped with rentals for chairs and umbrellas, while others require you to bring your own.
Plan Your Beach Vacation (or Vacations!) Today
Whichever destination you choose, a beachfront vacation promises relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories. The sand, sea, and scenery await, so start planning your ideal beachfront getaway today and let the waves wash your worries away.
