11 Best Family Beach Towns for Your Next Vacation

Oceanfront locales with good weather and sunny vibes fill up fast. Here are some shore bets to help you start a (sand) bucket list.

kids on beach

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A trip to the beach never feels like a family-vacation compromise—the kids want to go as much as you do. But what are the shore bets?

We combed thousands of beaches looking for clean water and low rates of closings. Once we narrowed the list to 100 or so, we factored in other deal-breakers, like lifeguards and restrooms, then turned our attention to the fun, low-cost attractions, nature activities, and family vibe of the rest of the destination.

Whether you're looking for somewhere to visit for the day or stay for the week, these picks provide the perfect combo of land and sea. (Note that all prices, offerings, and availabilities are subject to change. Please contact each hotel and attraction for up-to-date rates and information before taking your trip.) Bon voyage!

Hilton Head, SC, lighthouse at twilight
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1. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Oceanfront Fun: You can't really go wrong with any of Hilton Head's 12-plus miles of white-sand beaches. "Driessen Beach and Islanders Beach parks are particularly good choices for families because they also have playgrounds and picnic shelters," says Steve Riley, town manager. While you'll probably spot tiny ocean critters, sea-turtle nests, or even dolphins at any of the beaches, Driessen Beach's wooden boardwalk actually takes you over a tidal marsh and sand dunes, so it's home to the most creatures. And Coligny Beach Park, which has a splash fountain, also stands out for its shallow, calm water. "You'd have to walk out 30 yards for it to get above 3 feet deep," says Riley. On the other side of the island, don't miss the candy-striped lighthouse—it's a manageable 114 steps to the top—in the Harbour Town area.

Inland Hot Spots: With few streetlights (so you can easily see the stars!) and rules prohibiting neon signs and buildings over five stories tall, Hilton Head has retained its Southern charm. Check out The Sandbox, a children's museum with a pretend plane, bank, and supermarket café; it appeals most to kids 8 and under. School-age kids will have a blast at the Coastal Discovery Museum, which offers scavenger hunts, costumes, and a butterfly exhibit. At night, go to Gregg Russell's evening sing-alongs. "He plays guitar, teaches the crowd silly songs, and then the kids can volunteer to belt out their favorite tune," says Allison Burns, of Atlanta, who has vacationed in Hilton Head with her husband and 6-year-old daughter for the last four years. "It's a sweet way to end the night."

Castles in the Sand: Many resorts have recently been renovated. You'll get the most space for the money at Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort, located in Palmetto Dunes, a quiet coastal area. All of the resort's accommodations are suites. At more than 530 square feet, Omni's Studio Suites are about one third larger than others on the island, and include a kitchen area with a mini fridge, a microwave, cabinets to store snacks, and a dining table. A family pool starts at just a few inches deep, and The Ocean Tides spa features unique treatments, such as bamboo massage.

If you're torn between staying at a beach resort or renting a house, consider a villa at Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort, also in Palmetto Dunes. Each villa has a full kitchen, separate sleeping area for the kids, and many activities ranging from Goofy bingo to seasonal fly-fishing trips.

To be close to Islanders Beach Park, stay at the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa. The Westin Family Kid's Club activities range from making fossil Jell-O molds to building sand volcanos.

Coronado Ferry Landing
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2. Coronado, California

Oceanfront Fun: Across the bridge from San Diego, this tree-lined beach haven literally sparkles. The sand at Coronado Central beach contains small pieces of the mineral mica, which makes it shimmery! Coronado's 7 miles of coastline encompass five main beaches. All beaches have lifeguards and, except for South Beach, restrooms. The most popular choice: Central Beach in the heart of town, just a short stroll to restaurants and ice-cream shops. For something more serene, head to the 3 ½-mile Silver Strand State Beach. The ocean side of the strand is strewn with shells, while the bay side has warmer water, gentler waves, and a nature preserve. Kids ages 7 to 12 can earn a Junior Ranger badge at Silver Strand on Saturdays.

Inland Hot Spots: Grab an ice cream at MooTime Creamery—it's made fresh daily—and walk to the Coronado Public Library, where there's a whimsical Wizard of Oz exhibit. (L. Frank Baum wrote some of the story in Coronado.) Or catch a flick at the old-timey Coronado Village Theatre and then take your kids to Burger Lounge, which is known for its grass-fed burgers and onion rings. The town also has tons of great shopping—Seaside Papery is a must-stop for any Etsy fan.

Castles in the Sand: You can stay beachfront at the iconic Hotel del Coronado (fun fact: it's believed the hotel was L. Frank Baum's inspiration for the Emerald City in The Wonderful Wizard of Oz) or across the street at the more budget-friendly Glorietta Bay Inn. Recently renovated, the inn has a Bedtime Story Hotline, loaner beach toys, and a "music" lounge.

The Loews Coronado Bay Resort is just a 10-minute walk or short shuttle ride to Silver Strand State Beach; in fact, the hotel raised more than $1 million to help its nature preserves. On the property, Loews offers dive-in movies, pool games, marshmallow roasts, and summer camp sessions.

St. Pete Beach, FL
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3. St. Pete Beach, Florida

Oceanfront Fun: St. Pete Beach is the closest town to Fort De Soto Park—home to miles of lifeguard-patrolled white-sand beaches along with nature trails, fishing piers, a fort, and playgrounds, as well as kayak and bike rentals. "The North Beach area is like nature's wading pool," says Jim Wilson, park supervisor. "The gentle gulf water and gradual slope makes it perfect for little kids." St. Pete Beach itself also has 6 miles of beaches but no lifeguards on duty.

Inland Hot Spots: The Dalí Museum's treasure hunts, stories, and craft projects occupy the kids so you can appreciate the nearly 100 paintings by the famed artist. The outdoor waterfront garden adds to the kid appeal. For a sure hit with preschoolers, consider Great Explorations Houghton-Wagman Children's Museum or drive 10 minutes to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to Hope, who was featured in the Dolphin Tale movies.

Back in St. Pete Beach, eat at Snapper's Sea Grill, which has outdoor seating, free baked pita chips and hummus, and a kids' menu. Or try The Hangar Restaurant and Flight Lounge at Albert Whitted Airport, which has delicious, family-friendly food with a direct view of the tarmac. The kids will love watching airplanes take off and land. Bonus: Everyone gets a balsam-wood airplane as a take-away gift!

Castles in the Sand: The Vinoy Renaissance Resort at the downtown waterfront affords a luxurious experience for the family. The pool is spacious and beautiful, the service is outstanding, and the plush guest rooms provide great views of the marina and surrounding area. Or book a room at the Don CeSar Hotel—aka the "pink palace." It has an oceanfront pool area with a splash pad, chic guest rooms, and a Kids Camp for children ages 4 to 12.

Ocean City, Maryland beach

4. Ocean City, Maryland

Oceanfront Fun: Ocean City's 10 miles of beach are perfect for families. The resort town's uptown beaches are a little quieter, while the downtown beaches—from 1st Street to around 27th Street—are located along three miles of Ocean City's lively boardwalk. It's perfect for fun in the sand during the day—make sure to grab some Thrasher's fries for lunch—and boardwalk games, shopping, and rides for the kiddos at night.

Inland Hot Spots: You can't go to OCMD without a stop at Macky's, located along the bayside, where your whole family can enjoy some jumbo lump crab cakes and lobster mac and cheese while dining with your feet in the sand. The Bonfire Restaurant has a to-die-for prime rib and seafood buffet that's perfect for large groups. Parents: just don't forget to order an Orange Crush from the bar just about anywhere you go—it was invented in Ocean City.

Make sure to plan a trip to one of the Jolly Roger Amusement Park locations with the kiddos; there's a smaller version at the Ocean City Pier at the very end of the boardwalk and the larger parks—including rides, a water park, mini golf, and go-karts—are on 30th Street.

Castles in the Sand: Many families opt for vacation rentals in Ocean City, but there's no shortage of beachfront hotels—especially if you prefer someone else to do the cleaning! The Park Place Hotel is between 2nd and 3rd Streets, right on the boardwalk in the thick of the action, and the Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront has suites with full kitchens, a kid's pool with slides, and a swim-up bar for the adults. But you really can't go wrong anywhere you decide to stay!

West Falmouth Harbor, Cape Cod
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5. Falmouth, Massachusetts

Oceanfront Fun: Located in southern Cape Cod, Falmouth's 10 beaches cover 10 miles of shoreline. "During low tide, Wood Neck Beach on Buzzard's Bay has shallow, warm wading areas and a marshy sandbar area with crabs and other little creatures," says Kimberly Kane, a mom of three in Bedford, New Hampshire. "My kids love this place!" If you want to do more swimming than exploring, try Old Silver Beach, which isn't as rocky.

Inland Hot Spots: Hit the trails at the free Ashumet Holly Wildlife Sanctuary. You'll see 65 varieties of holly trees, plus frogs and birds, and, if you come in late summer or early fall, rare wildflowers. Or explore the shops and galleries in downtown Falmouth Village—don't miss Eight Cousins Books and Bella of Cape Cod. Grab dinner at the North Falmouth's Silver Lounge, where you can eat in a genuine caboose. If you're staying over on a Wednesday night, head to Coonamessett Farm for a Jamaican buffet under a pavilion overlooking the fields.

Castles in the Sand: Located on Old Silver Beach, the Sea Crest Beach Hotel offers kid-friendly arts and crafts (on certain days) plus great beach access. It also gives you a Plan B: an indoor pool for days when the weather doesn't cooperate. Or stay at the cozy Beach Breeze Inn, located just 100 yards from Surf Drive Beach, where your rock-and-shell collector will be in heaven.

Cape May, NJ
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6. Cape May, New Jersey

Oceanfront Fun: The five main beaches in this historic town have 24 access points. You can't go wrong with any of the picks, but Sunset Beach, on the western side of town, is a resident fave for its "Cape May diamonds," pretty pebbles that kids (and adults!) collect. And don't miss one of the town's best-kept secret: the Nature Center of Cape May.

Inland Hot Spots: Full of Victorian houses and charming shops, Cape May isn't Snooki's Jersey Shore. Hop on the 30-minute children's trolley tour to get the lay of the land as guides point out cultural attractions, historic areas, and beaches. You might hear about the family tours of the Victorian museum Emlen Physick Estate, the 1859 lighthouse at Cape May Point State Park, the free Cape May County Zoo, and the shopping and restaurants at Washington Street Mall.

For dinner, try the Lobster House. "You can sit in the dining room, go to the casual raw bar, or get take-out and find a table along the harbor to watch the boats go by," says Vivian Daly, a local and mom of four.

Castles in the Sand: The beachfront Congress Hall offers free towels and lounge chairs oceanside for hotel guests. A jam-packed lineup of family activities keep your crew busy and happy.

Amelia Island, Florida
Amelia Island Tourism Development Council

7. Amelia Island, Florida

Oceanfront Fun: On the island's 13 miles of coastline, Main Beach Park is a gem because it has a playground, restrooms, picnic areas, and volleyball courts. "It's also an excellent place for kids to try to find shark teeth," says Nan Voit, director of parks and recreation.

Inland Hot Spots: Take a 30-minute horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district as a guide tells you about the island's past—your kids will perk up when they hear about the pirates. Then catch dinner at Timoti's Seafood Shak, which serves up local fare. Eat outside and after dinner your kids can let off steam at the on-site pirate ship playground.

Castles in the Sand: Set on 3-and-a-half miles of shoreline, The Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort offers the largest pool deck in Northeast Florida, a nature center, and three golf courses. Or look into the Residence Inn—Amelia Island, which is just two blocks from the beach. You get free breakfast daily, an outdoor pool, and a full kitchen.

Kitty Hawk, Monument to Century of Flight at dusk
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8. Kitty Hawk, North Carolina

Oceanfront Fun: Part of the Outer Banks, Kitty Hawk boasts 3 miles of uncrowded beaches. Use the Kitty Hawk Bath House and Byrd Street beach entrances because they're nearest the restrooms and lifeguards.

Inland Hot Spots: Spend a morning at Turf's Up, a sports complex specializing in simulation technology; your kids can practice soccer, baseball, and more. Then check out the Wright Brothers National Memorial in nearby Kill Devil Hills. There are kite-flying demos and Junior Ranger programs.

Castles in the Sand: All rooms at the Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks/Kitty Hawk have a balcony and ocean views. Or book one of the hundreds of beach houses in the town; go to outerbanks.org for a list of rental companies.

Hawaii Waikoloa Coast
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9. Kohala Coast, Hawaii, the Big Island

Oceanfront Fun: You really can't go wrong with the beaches anywhere in the Aloha State, but certain islands may match up better with your family's interests. For beach plus adventure, try the Big Island. The shoreline at Hapuna Beach State Park Recreation Area is everything you envision when you think of Hawaii: turquoise water, clean white sand, and stunning views. Go the northern end of the beach; there's a cove made from black volcanic rock where kids will have no trouble spotting little fish.

Inland Hot Spots: The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel has a fantastic luau for families every Tuesday and Friday. Kids can sit in front of the stage and even participate at the end of the show.

Castles in the Sand: The Westin Hapuna Beach Prince Resort offers a family-friendly pool and cultural experiences, including hula lessons, chanting, and lei-making. Think you'd rather stay in a condo? Destination Hawaii offers one- to two bedroom condos at Mauna Lani Point.

Gulf Coast, Alabama
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10. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Oceanfront Fun: On Gulf State Park's guarded coastline, "The beaches are clean and the sand is sugar-white," says Sarah Barnhill, a mom of a 3-year-old in nearby Adger, Alabama.

Inland Hot Spots: The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is the perfect size for kids—you can get a good view of its 200-plus creatures and drop in for its summertime animal shows during a three-hour visit. Stop by Fort Morgan, where kids can see real cannons and learn about Civil War history. End a great day with dinner at LuLu's at Homeport Marina, which has a food-allergy menu and a beach-sand area to occupy kids.

Castles in the Sand: Vacation rentals are abundant in Gulf Shores. A great pick: a condo at The Beach Club Gulf Shores; all units have full kitchens, access to pools, and a fitness center.

A picture of Westgate Myrtle Beach Resort on Myrtle Beach.

Westgate Resorts

11. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Oceanfront Fun: The 60-mile stretch of beach is the prime attraction of the Carolina coastline, drawing a sea of families from the mid-South and beyond. There's plenty of space to build sand castles, fly kites, and enjoy romantic walks on the beach.

Inland Hot Spots: On the boardwalk, families can take a ride on Myrtle Beach's biggest attraction, Skywheel Myrtle Beach, visit Landshark Bar & Grill for a bite, or shop at Gay Dolphin Gift Cove, the biggest gift shop in town. The best part? It's all within walking distance so parents can take it easy.

Castles in the Sand: Westgate Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Resort, situated directly on the beach and within steps of Skywheel Myrtle Beach, offers family suites that include everything you'll need for a summer oceanside. That means you'll have a washer/dryer, family room, hot tub, and kitchen for cooking when you're not hanging out at one of the property's restaurants or grabbing a bite in town. Your kids will also love the hotel's pools, including a lazy river.

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