10 Family-Friendly Beach Towns in the USA for a Perfect Summer Vacation
Summer is just around the corner, and for many families, that means one thing: beach vacation! But finding the perfect spot that balances kid-friendly fun with relaxation for the grown-ups can be tricky. Fear not! We've compiled a list of 10 amazing family-friendly beach towns across the USA, complete with budget estimates, top attractions, and lodging recommendations to help you plan your dream getaway.
1. Outer Banks, North Carolina
- Budget: Couple: $1,500-$2,500/week; Family of 4: $2,500-$4,000/week
- What to Do: Climb historic lighthouses (Cape Hatteras, Bodie Island), learn to surf, explore the Wright Brothers National Memorial, enjoy miles of pristine beaches.
- Where to Stay: Sanderling Resort (luxury), The White Doe Inn (charming B&B), vacation rentals for budget-conscious families.
- Deals: Look for off-season (spring/fall) deals and package offers that include activities.
2. Ocean City, Maryland
- Budget: Couple: $1,200-$2,000/week; Family of 4: $2,000-$3,500/week
- What to Do: Stroll the iconic boardwalk, ride amusement park rides, play mini-golf, enjoy watersports, visit Jolly Roger Amusement Park.
- Where to Stay: The Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort, Francis Scott Key Family Resort, numerous beachfront hotels and condos.
- Deals: Check for mid-week specials and early booking discounts.
3. Virginia Beach, Virginia
- Budget: Couple: $1,000-$1,800/week; Family of 4: $1,800-$3,000/week
- What to Do: Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, explore the Military Aviation Museum, bike the boardwalk, relax on the beach.
- Where to Stay: The Cavalier Virginia Beach, Oceanfront Inn, many affordable hotel chains and vacation rentals.
- Deals: Look for military discounts and package deals.
4. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
- Budget: Couple: $800-$1,500/week; Family of 4: $1,500-$2,500/week
- What to Do: Ride the SkyWheel, explore Broadway at the Beach, visit Ripley's Aquarium, enjoy live entertainment, hit the many golf courses.
- Where to Stay: Dunes Village Resort, Caribbean Resort & Villas, numerous budget-friendly hotels and motels.
- Deals: Look for last-minute deals and package deals that include show tickets and attractions.
5. San Diego, California
- Budget: Couple: $1,800-$3,000/week; Family of 4: $3,000-$5,000/week
- What to Do: Visit the San Diego Zoo, explore Balboa Park, enjoy the beaches of Coronado Island, visit Legoland California.
- Where to Stay: Hotel del Coronado (iconic), Paradise Point Resort & Spa, numerous family-friendly hotels in Mission Bay and La Jolla.
- Deals: Consider visiting during the off-season (excluding holidays) for better rates.
6. Clearwater Beach, Florida
- Budget: Couple: $1,500-$2,500/week; Family of 4: $2,500-$4,000/week
- What to Do: Relax on the award-winning white sand beaches, visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (home of Winter the Dolphin), take a sunset cruise.
- Where to Stay: Sandpearl Resort, Opal Sands Resort, many beachfront condos and hotels.
- Deals: Check for Florida resident discounts and early bird specials.
7. South Padre Island, Texas
- Budget: Couple: $1,000-$1,800/week; Family of 4: $1,800-$3,000/week
- What to Do: Enjoy watersports, visit Sea Turtle, Inc., explore the Schlitterbahn Waterpark, relax on the beach.
- Where to Stay: Isla Grand Beach Resort, Pearl South Padre, many affordable beachfront condos.
- Deals: Look for off-season specials and package deals that include waterpark tickets.
8. Cannon Beach, Oregon
- Budget: Couple: $1,200-$2,000/week; Family of 4: $2,000-$3,500/week
- What to Do: Explore Haystack Rock, hike in Ecola State Park, browse the art galleries, enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery.
- Where to Stay: The Stephanie Inn, Hallmark Resort & Spa Cannon Beach, cozy vacation rentals.
- Deals: Look for shoulder season (spring/fall) discounts.
9. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
- Budget: Couple: $1,800-$3,000/week; Family of 4: $3,000-$5,000/week
- What to Do: Visit the Cape Cod National Seashore, explore charming towns like Chatham and Provincetown, enjoy whale watching tours.
- Where to Stay: Chatham Bars Inn, Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, various beachfront cottages and inns.
- Deals: Book well in advance, especially for peak season.
10. Oahu, Hawaii
- Budget: Couple: $2,500-$4,000/week; Family of 4: $4,000-$7,000/week (excluding flights)
- What to Do: Visit Pearl Harbor, hike Diamond Head, learn to surf at Waikiki Beach, explore the Polynesian Cultural Center.
- Where to Stay: Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, various condo rentals.
- Deals: Look for package deals that include flights and accommodation, and consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring/fall).
Remember to factor in the cost of flights, transportation, food, and activities when planning your budget. Booking in advance and being flexible with your travel dates can often help you snag the best deals. Happy beaching!
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