by: Lindsay Hutton
Are you looking for the perfect beach destination for your family this summer? Check out this list of top family-friendly beaches throughout the country, and start planning your next vacation!
Fred Benson Town Beach
Block Island, Rhode Island
Just a short ferry ride away from the mainland of Rhode Island, Fred Benson Town Beach comes equipped with a bathhouse, pavilion, and items available for rent such as beach chairs, umbrellas, and boogie boards. Admission and parking are free. Away from the shore, Block Island has a host of other kid-friendly activities such as bike rentals to explore the island, and several family-friendly restaurants.
Mayo Beach
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
The warm, shallow, and calm water along this beach make it an ideal destination for families with toddlers and young children. The sand is soft, not rocky, and makes for easy barefooted walking. With a playground across the street, fabulous views of the local fishing boats, and restrooms and picnic tables on site, Mayo Beach successfully combines family fun and summer sun.
Orange Beach, Alabama
The warm water and soft white sand aren't the only attractions for this low-key Gulf Coast destination. When your child has had her fill of the ocean, Orange Beach offers a multitude of other fun family activities, including dolphin cruises, deep-sea fishing, mini golf, and ice cream parlors. The beachfront boasts welcoming hotels and budget-friendly condominiums, making Orange Beach a fun and affordable getaway.
Maui, Hawaii
There is a reason why Hawaii's second largest island has been nicknamed "The Magic Isle." With one-of-a-kind shorelines, and prime boogie boarding and surfing, the beaches of Maui are an exotic retreat for the perfect family vacation. And if your family craves adventure away from the beach, Maui also has a tropical reef aquarium, the historic 1890s Sugar Cane Train, and hands-on exhibits at the Hawaii Nature Center. Aloha!
Coronado Beach
San Diego, California
Who can resist sunny California in the summertime? Located next to a naval airport, Coronado Beach presents a fascinating view of naval jets and aircraft carriers to watch while relaxing in the sand. Away from the surf, your family will be enthralled with the animals at the world famous San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and the displays of marine life at La Jolla Cove.
York Harbor Beach, Maine
Nicknamed "Mother's Beach," York Harbor Beach is known for its safe, toddler-friendly shoreline, and the quaint lighthouses and local lodgings are the epitome of New England charm. In the summer, local concerts, fairs, fireworks, and tournaments make this picturesque area of the northeast the perfect getaway for young families.
Indiana Dunes State Park Beach
Michigan City, Indiana
Miles from the Atlantic and Pacific oceans is a three-mile expanse of soft sand that stretches from Gary to Michigan City, Indiana. This tranquil beach located in an unlikely area of the Midwest has plenty of picnic areas and a pavilion complete with a snack bar. It's guaranteed to satisfy your beach-loving family.
Carlin Park
Jupiter, Florida
Florida is world-renowned for its beautiful beaches, and Carlin Park is no exception. The lighted facilities stay open until 11pm when in use, allowing your family to enjoy all this destination has to offer well past sunset. With 3,000 feet of lifeguarded beach, bocce courts, tennis and volleyball courts, and tons of picnic space, Carlin Park is the perfect beach getaway for the active family that loves the sand, the surf, and the sun.
Nags Head Beach
The Outer Banks, North Carolina
Surrounded by 900 square miles of water, your family will have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the pristine sand of Nags Head. In addition to the sprawling beach, Nags Head Beach is staffed with lifeguards. An abundance of water sports will keep your child active and occupied, allowing you to relax with the sand between your toes.
Stewart Beach
Galveston, Texas
Sandcastle competitions, concerts, and volleyball tournaments are just some of the offerings at this family-focused beach destination. This popular park boasts a variety of family activities and comes complete with amenities, a children's playground, an outdoor pavilion with snack bar, and chair and umbrella rentals. It has all your family needs for a fun and relaxing vacation in the sand.
