The Atlantic Coast stretches from the rocky shores of Maine to the extensive Florida coastline. Thirteen states touch the Atlantic Ocean, offering numerous opportunities to have fun at the beach. Which ones should you circle on your map? These cities provide beaches, delicious food, hiking trails and family-friendly activities. Here are the 16 best beach towns across the U.S. East Coast.
1. Atlantic City, New Jersey
Atlantic City is among America’s most famous beach spots because of its white sand and bustling nightlife. This New Jersey town has plenty of casinos to play poker and blackjack once you’ve spent a day at the beach. Atlantic City may be most famous for its boardwalk near the Ducktown neighborhood. This famous site has a Ferris wheel, roller coasters, shops and restaurants lining the scenic Atlantic Ocean.
The entertainment capital of New Jersey has plenty to do during your stay. Atlantic City beaches are free to enter year-round and feature surfing, fishing, kayaking and other fun activities. Besides the beach, the town features worthwhile sites like the Absecon Lighthouse and the New Jersey Korean War Memorial. If you need a day of relaxation, head to one of the day spas for rejuvenating treatments.
2. Bar Harbor, Maine
You won’t find many beach towns within national parks, but you get the best of both worlds in Bar Harbor, Maine. This quaint city is on Mount Desert Island and provides easy access to Acadia National Park. Hike up to Cadillac Mountain or explore the Wild Gardens of Acadia — there is no shortage of outdoor activities here.
While Acadia steals the show, Bar Harbor has recreational areas within the city, such as Agamont Park and Grant Park. These parks are excellent spots to take your family because they have easy access to the beach. Have a picnic at Agamont Park and watch the boats enter and exit the pier.
Other activities within Bar Harbor include sightseeing in the historic downtown. Founders established this town in the 18th century, meaning much of the current architecture offers a quintessential New England look. Visit in the fall for ghost tours along the Atlantic shore.
3. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is a can’t-miss getaway for your summer vacation plans. This large section of Massachusetts’ Atlantic Coast is famous for its old New England charm and the unique marsh ecosystem. Cottages line the shores of public and private beaches as you explore the best of the Northeast.
When in Cape Cod, tour the famous Martha’s Vineyard and see why tourists flock to this island. Guided tours showcase the beautiful gingerbread cottages of Oak Bluffs and captain homes in Edgartown Harbor. Additionally, you’ll see fishing villages like Chilmark and Menemsha as you soak in the fantastic sunsets. President Obama and other public figures have spent vacations here, adding to the island’s mystique.
Cape Cod is also famous for its national seashore — a protected 40-mile stretch of beaches, ponds and marshes with incredible biodiversity. The extensive recreational area means numerous hiking opportunities, so lace up your sneakers for the walking trails. Red Maple Swamp, Nauset Marsh and Fort Hill are terrific hikes to embrace nature and see local wildlife.
History is abundant in Cape Cod, so don’t miss the opportunity to see the Pilgrim Monument and the Cape Cod Maritime Museum. These educational sites provide unforgettable insight into New England’s history and unique artifacts. For example, the museum has an exhibit detailing how women contributed to Cape Cod and influenced the region’s history.
4. Daytona Beach, Florida
Florida is a can’t-miss state with its extensive Atlantic coastline. The Sunshine State has numerous cities worthy of a visit, and Daytona Beach stands out as a fun place for the whole family. The city’s most famous attraction may be the Daytona International Speedway, a sizable motorsports track adjacent to the airport. This storied venue holds races year-round, with NASCAR events each February and August.
When NASCAR isn’t in town, people visit Daytona Beach for the sandy shores. This area features 23 miles of white-sand beaches you can walk or drive golf carts on. Paddleboarding, surfing and kayaking are only some of the fun water sports you can enjoy at Daytona Beach. Take advantage of the clear blue waters and go snorkeling.
Take a break from the outdoors and enjoy Daytona Beach’s underrated arts scene. The city has numerous museums and art galleries to show off talented individuals. For instance, the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art boasts 2,600 Florida-themed paintings and terrific artwork.
5. Groton, Connecticut
When you think of Connecticut, you might not think of its coastline. However, the state has gems like Groton on its southern coast. This beach town is across the Thames River from New London and is an excellent site for military enthusiasts. Groton is home to the Submarine Force Museum, where you’ll find the world’s first nuclear submarine. The USS Nautilus has a place in history due to its World War II service and a 1958 trip to the North Pole.
When you want time in the sand, head to Esker Point Beach for a day of sunny fun. This beach houses nine volleyball courts, launching areas for your watercraft and shaded picnic sites for the public to enjoy. Another option for outdoor time is Eastern Point Beach, a family-oriented spot closer to the town of Groton. This beach has basketball courts, snack bars and scenic views from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
The history doesn’t stop at the submarine museum. Check out Revolutionary War history at Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park, where key battles occurred in the late 18th century. The old battlefield has a self-guided tour you can access via your cellphone anytime. You’ll see amazing sites like the Ebenezer Avery House, which provided shelter for wounded American soldiers during the war.
6. Hilton Head, South Carolina
Hilton Head, South Carolina, is an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts because of its biodiversity. This coastal city is in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, so you’ll see swamps, marshes and unique wildlife. Migratory birds, alligators and white-tailed deer call this area home. Travel to Hilton Head to see one of the Palmetto State’s premier beach towns.
Hilton Head is a small island only 31 miles from Savannah, Georgia. The abundance of white-sand shores makes this South Carolina town an attractive destination. Check out the public-access beaches like Alder Lane, Driessen, Folly Field and Coligny. These beach parks are notable because they’re wheelchair accessible with mats and rentable wheelchairs.
Beach fun is a mainstay for Hilton Head vacationers as you can kayak through marshes, charter party boats, sail like a pirate and go on skiff adventure tours. Nighttime is when the city comes alive with seaside fun. Check out the Comedy Magic Cabaret and the Roasting Room for superb South Carolina entertainment. The British Open Pub lets you taste delicious drinks from across the pond.
7. Kitty Hawk, North Carolina
Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, is a destination for history lovers, and rightfully so. This city is where Orville and Wilbur Wright changed the world with the first successful airplane flight in December 1903. You can see the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, which is only a few blocks from the Atlantic Coast.
Kitty Hawk has numerous beaches allowing public access, giving you and your family more options for East Coast fun. This beach town is part of the Outer Banks, one of the most scenic areas along the Atlantic Ocean. Check out Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve for over 1,800 acres of forest preserve with wooded dunes and swampy forests for one of North Carolina’s unique coastal ecosystems.
The city itself sets the stage for a fun night with the Kitty Hawk and Avalon piers — a pair of great ways to see the ocean. Grab dinner and a show at OBX Mystery Dinner as you try to solve the crime and win prizes. Continue your Kitty Hawk adventures by heading to OB-Xscape Rooms, as these puzzles will challenge your family and test your logic skills.
8. Long Branch, New Jersey
The hustle and bustle of New York City can be overwhelming, so some New Yorkers head to Long Branch, New Jersey, for fun times at the beach. This scenic town is one of the Garden State’s best coastal destinations for its incredible beaches and year-round attractions. Head to Long Branch Beach for a relaxing day on the sand. Stroll the boardwalk or get up early for a yoga session with Sun Moon Yoga.
Long Branch is a fun-filled town, especially if you visit in the summer. You’ll enjoy concerts, festivals and other celebrations when the weather is warmest. Check out Oceanfest in early July as locals and tourists celebrate America’s Independence Day. This festival has occurred annually since 1990, providing incredible fireworks displays and memorable sights.
One of Long Branch’s hallmark areas is Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park. This recreational area is where you’ll find people tanning, surfing, swimming and making memories. Take the kids to Tony’s Place, an on-site park with plenty of slides and places to climb.
9. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is just south of the North Carolina border. This beach town is among the most popular in the Palmetto State because of its numerous family-friendly attractions and miles of sandy shores. Head to Cherry Grove Beach for banana boat rides, dolphin cruises and parasailing in the Atlantic Ocean. If you want to beat the crowds, check out Crescent Beach or Atlantic Beach for relaxing days on the white sands.
Outside the beaches, Myrtle Beach is renowned for its sightseeing and touring opportunities. Tiki Tours of Myrtle Beach takes your crew on a fun ride through the town’s intracoastal waterways. Each decorated boat has a bar and comfortable seating as you explore the long stretch of water. Murrells Inlet is where you’ll find Pirate Adventures of Myrtle Beach, a kid-friendly excursion where they dress up as pirates and search for treasure.
It’s hard to miss the entertainment opportunities in Myrtle Beach. Explore Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach to see jellyfish, penguins, sharks and other majestic aquatic creatures. The Hollywood Wax Museum and the Simpsons in 4D are terrific entertainment venues the family will enjoy.
10. Ocean City, Maryland
The Chesapeake Bay is a popular vacation destination in Maryland, but you’ll find another terrific spot closer to the Delaware border. Ocean City, Maryland, is a long strip of land just north of Assateague Island, and it has some of the Old Line State’s best ocean views. The resort town has a 10-mile stretch of beaches ready for your family to enjoy as you soak up the sun. Ocean City beaches are Maryland hotspots for swimming, fishing and surfing on hot days.
Ocean City is an excellent beach town for the family, with the boardwalk and amusement park attractions in the spotlight. The Ferris wheel provides a nice view of the beaches, while the pier rides offer endless fun for everyone who enjoys roller coasters. If you’re into risky adventures, Ocean City is famous for its tandem skydiving, jet skiing and exhilarating waterslides.
The adrenaline rush doesn’t stop at the boardwalk. You can also have fun at Jolly Roger Amusement Park, Frontier Town and other exciting establishments in the area. If you want to slow things down, visit the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum to see Maryland history. This institution shows neat artifacts from America’s life-saving services.
11. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Delaware doesn’t have an extensive Atlantic coastline, but the Blue Hen State makes it count with Rehoboth Beach. This Delaware staple has outdoor opportunities galore with the beach, Cape Henlopen State Park, Fort Miles Historic Area and Gordon Pond Wildlife Area. Rehoboth Bay provides inland fun as you kayak and paddleboard through the water.
Rehoboth Beach is famous among tourists for its mile-long boardwalk with shops, restaurants and attractions. The boardwalk features family-friendly destinations like Funland, an amusement park filled with rides and midway games. The beach has public access, so bring the family for surfing, fishing and other fun water activities.
When you want a break from the beach, check out the entertainment venues in and around Rehoboth Beach. Haunted Mansion is a fitting spot if you like spooks, as it features a scary haunted house ride. Jungle Jim’s River Safari Water Park is the place to be if you want to ride a lazy river, go down a water slide and have fun in a wave pool sprayground. The attraction also includes go-kart tracks and mini golf.
12. Saint Simons Island, Georgia
Saint Simons Island is a midway point between Jacksonville, Florida, and Savannah, Georgia. This beach town is part of Georgia’s Golden Isles and is famous for its Southern charm. The unique architecture is prevalent at local sites like the World War II Home Front Museum and St. Simons Lighthouse Museum. These institutions go back in time with educational tours and genuine artifacts to display St. Simons’ role in history.
East Beach headlines Saint Simons Island’s sandy shores, as this area has three different access points. It’s renowned for birdwatching, fishing, cycling and other recreational activities. Increase the intensity with extreme kiteboarding in the Atlantic Ocean, or head to Gould’s Inlet for relaxing fishing opportunities. There’s something for everyone in this coastal Georgia town.
Fort Frederica National Monument is just outside Saint Simons Island. This historical site is nearly 300 years old and was integral for protecting British troops from Spanish raids. The modern fort displays the archaeological remains of this structure and is an excellent educational opportunity for families.
13. St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine is ideal if you like exploring old beach towns. This city is the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the United States, established 42 years before Jamestown, Virginia. The 16th-century influence is still prominent in St. Augustine, as you see beautiful Spanish architecture throughout the city. The lush green trees make the area worthy of postcards for friends and family.
St. Augustine has numerous beaches, so pick the most appealing for you and your crew. Head to St. Augustine Beach if you like collecting shells, surfing and relaxing on white sand. Stroll along the fishing pier and see if you can catch redfish, tripletail and black drum in the water. Matanzas Inlet is an excellent spot to beat the crowds and take your family to a quieter section of the beach.
History is a big part of St. Augustine, so check out Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. While the Spanish explorer didn’t find the fountain of youth, you can explore St. Augustine’s rich history at this attraction. The park features a blacksmith exhibit, Timucuan burials, a Spanish lookout and cannon firings for an immersive experience.
14. Venice, Florida
Florida’s Atlantic Coast gets much attention because of Daytona Beach and Miami. However, the Gulf of Mexico deserves recognition for cities like Venice. It’s about 70 miles from Tampa and is a popular tourist destination for those wanting to relax in warm weather and enjoy the outdoors. Venice has 14 miles of beaches for fun, swimming, fishing, snorkeling and riding boats along the scenic coastline.
Do you like to bring furry friends on your vacations? Take your dogs to Brohard Beach Paw Park, which has a fenced area and a 100-yard section of beach to play. Brohard Beach has a separate beach for people, including picnic tables and a boardwalk.
If you enjoy unique beach towns, you might find the best one in southwest Florida. Venice is the shark tooth capital of the world, as you can find numerous teeth along the shores. Prehistoric sharks roamed the coastal waters 10 million years ago but died as land overtook their habitats. In the present day, collecting shark teeth is a fun activity on Venice Beach sands.
15. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach, Virginia, is another large metropolitan area to enjoy along the Atlantic Coast. This city is the largest in the state and features beautiful oceanfronts, lighthouses and wildlife refuges. Virginia’s eastern shore is famous for its parks lining the Atlantic Ocean. For example, First Landing State Park has outdoor fun and educational experiences for the entire family. Take a dolphin-watching tour at sunset or zipline across the park.
The best beach in the area might belong to Sandbridge, a few miles south of Virginia Beach. This enclave is popular for Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, where you can watch migrating birds and ride horseback along the sand. Sandbridge also features Hell’s Point Golf Club and Lotus Garden Park as must-see attractions.
Another reason to visit Virginia Beach is if you enjoy history. The city has long been a military hub with numerous bases in Hampton Roads. Norfolk Naval Station, JEB Fort Story and other famous institutions are close to Virginia’s largest city. History buffs will enjoy the Military Aviation Museum west of Sandbridge. This facility houses military aircraft from World War I and World War II, paying homage to the soldiers who flew these planes.
16. York, Maine
Old New England and the beach atmosphere come together in York, Maine. This coastal town is attractive when you want cooler temperatures than in the South. The beach town has postcard-worthy views, and the Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse is one of York’s best sites. This beautiful lighthouse stands tall as it overlooks the rocky shores of the Atlantic Ocean.
While the town is small, York provides plenty of sightseeing opportunities for water lovers. Walk along the family-friendly Short Sands Beach and take your kids to the on-site playground. You’ll find Wiggly Bridge near York Harbor as you get unforgettable water views. Stroll the Fisherman’s Walk from Wiggly Bridge to Stage Neck Inn for a terrific tour of South York.
Besides the shores, the coastal Maine town includes York’s Wild Kingdom Zoo. This park lets you see a Bengal tiger, African spurred tortoise, capybaras and other unique wildlife.
Best Beach Towns on the Atlantic Coast
The East Coast spans thousands of miles, giving you and your crew plenty of opportunities for beach town activities. Small and large coastal cities have unique shops, outdoor opportunities, white-sand beaches and excellent restaurants. Which ones are the best? These 16 beach towns stand out because of their charm, family-friendly attractions and endless fun.
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