The best way to make the most out of your travels is to check out the best destinations before you set off on your trip. Whether it’s a road trip or a dedicated tour of the best beaches on the East Coast, we’re here to help point you in the right direction.
From beaches best suited to family fun to those perfect for a couple’s getaway, we’ve put together a list of some of the most popular places to visit when you’re traveling the East Coast so that you can fill your trip with exciting spots along the way.
Maps and a marker at the ready? Let’s get stuck into our favorite recommendations!
- John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk, Florida
John’s Pass Village is an area on the waterfront at Madeira Beach, and John’s Pass is the water channel that separates the north of Madeira Beach from Treasure Island, which is located to the south. Nearby is the sandy beach, found on the waterfront of the Gulf Coast.
There are plenty of things to see and do when visiting John’s Pass, which is what makes it such a popular destination choice for those traveling up or down the East Coast.
The boardwalk, for example, is highly recommended on sites like Tripadvisor, with a number of restaurants and water activities such as parasailing, jet-skiing, boat rides, and island tours.
- Menemsha Beach, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
If you enjoy calmer waters, you’ll love the sea that spans Menemsha Beach in Massachusetts which offers up its cool waves to swimmers of all abilities, making it ideal for families who are traveling with young children.
Head there to watch the boats that come to fish in the village harbor or to see views of the Elizabeth Islands. With its romantic atmosphere in the evenings as the sun sets, it’s perfect for couples to picnic, to watch the sun go down, or to go for an evening stroll along the beach.
You can also book to do an island tour or to visit Martha’s Vineyard which is situated nearby. Edgartown is another spot worth taking a detour to in order to spend time in its expansive museums or to drive past the white clapboard houses.
- Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York
While there’s plenty to do in New York, Coney Island is worth a trip of its own if you’re hitting up the best beaches on the East Coast. Get your kicks by trying out any of the rides and roller coasters or have your fill of hot dogs and cotton candy, like the dozens of other tourists.
To get the full experience, stay somewhere in Brooklyn that’s close to the amusement parks. Hotel Le Bleu is highly recommended for families with a bigger budget and small children.
The beach itself is flocked to when the sun comes out, while the gloomy atmosphere of the amusement park has its own appeal on rainy days. It’s truly a must-see if you’re on the East Coast, and there are sights like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island within a stone’s throw.
- Siesta Beach, Sarasota, Florida
Another beach you should consider hitting up if you’re heading over Florida way is Siesta Beach, best known for its incredible powder-like sand which is up to ninety-nine percent quartz. The waters are equally as beautiful with calm conditions most of the time.
There are plenty of resorts for family-friendly stays, or alternatively, you could rent your own space with a number of apartments to choose from within walking distance of the beach.
You won’t be bored at the Siesta beach thanks to the variety of activities available. The wildlife is all around you and can be spotted by any keen-eyed
- Cumberland National Seashore, Georgia
For a more island feel, head down to Cumberland National Seashore in Georgia where the crowds are non-existent and the animal wildlife is abundant. If you’re after a trip of the slightly more adventurous kind then this is a trip to the beach you won’t forget.
While there are bikes available to rent on the island, the rest of your supplies must be brought with you as they can’t be purchased once you’re there. If you’re camping, make sure you only do so on one of the five designated campgrounds.
Sea Camp and Stafford Beach offer official campsites, whereas Hickory Hill, Yankee Paradise, and Brickhill Buff provide the wilderness glamping experience of a lifetime, and you can enjoy activities like hiking, biking, and animal watching.
Barry Lachey is a Professional Editor at Zobuz. Previously He has also worked for Moxly Sports and Network Resources “Joe Joe.” He is a graduate of the Kings College at the University of Thames Valley London. You can reach Barry via email or by phone.
