With the advantage of attractive scenery, exciting activities, and quality coastal resort options, a beach vacation has all the right ingredients to create lifelong memories for families, couples, or travel groups.
It is important to thoroughly explore your beach destination opportunities from coast to coast. Here are essential beach destinations to keep in mind when planning your warm-weather getaway!
California
Newport Beach – This quaint town has several outstanding beaches to offer, most notably the Newport Beach Municipal Beach on the Balboa Peninsula. Millions of visitors annually visit this destination to experience its 10 miles of coastline, which includes the biggest recreational harbor on the west coast.
In addition to the many places to sunbathe or swim, Newport Beach is home to a desirable amount of luxury tourism options, including waterfront restaurants, high-end shopping, and a top-tier assortment of spas.
The area is also known for its many bike trails and nature paths. For the full California beach experience, rent a beach cruiser for the day.
Huntington Beach – For thrill-seekers, a beach getaway would not be complete without surfing. Look no further than Huntington Beach, also known as “Surf City USA” thanks to its top-quality waves. If you are there in the summer, you can get in on the action by watching the World Surfing Championships.
And if surfing is not your style, there are plenty of other ways to have a fun vacation at Huntington Beach. Bring your pet on the trip and head to the western side to enjoy the dog beach.
Florida
Miami Beach – The bustling city of Miami Beach is booming with local hotspots, nightlife, shopping in Miami and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Take in the signature art deco buildings and enjoy the gorgeous beach scenery on Ocean Drive: a mainstay of Miami culture for decades. Epic beach views are best experienced from the Hotel Victor in South Beach.
Key West – This is the southernmost city in the United States, and with this comes beaches with breathtaking views. The aptly named Southernmost Beach Resort provides the opportunity for an island getaway with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
For tourist attractions, the island is also famous for the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, which features Hemingway’s studio, picturesque gardens, and approximately 40-50 polydactyl cats.
Daytona Beach – Though many will associate Daytona Beach with racing, there are many other reasons to visit this coastal city. Florida is known for its high humidity, so selecting a destination with further from the equator like Daytona will bring a more peaceful climate. You’ll have a better chance at avoiding humidity-related pain points like mold and fungi buildup from the extreme weather conditions in Boca Raton.
While at Daytona Beach, visit the boardwalk and pier for shopping, thrill rides, and, of course, ocean side relaxation.
Hawaii
Maui – With over 30 miles of beaches to offer, Maui is a top destination for beach goers, whether they are looking to kick back and relax or embark on an exciting adventure. Makena Beach State Park is ideal for fishing, snorkeling, and swimming. It’s uniquely centered between two black lava rock outcroppings!
As one of Hawaii’s largest beaches, it offers plenty of space for sunbathing and is often less crowded than the popular beaches in Ka’anapali and Lahaina.
Hanalei Bay – On the North Shore of Kauai, Hanalei Bay offers a harmonious balance of beaches and mountains, including two miles of magnificent white sand set amongst scenic peaks.This is a taste of paradise, hosting beautiful ocean waters for rookie surfers as well as seasoned wave-riders. The water stays calm in the summer, making it ideal for swimming and stand-up paddle boarding.
The area is also conveniently located near hiking trails and must-see waterfalls – it’s a dream destination!