Although the states of California and Hawaii are often praised for beautiful beaches, the majority of the country’s most desirable sand may be found near the Atlantic Ocean. The majority of people in the United States consider going to the beach to be their go-to choice for a fun weekend excursion, regardless of how close or far they have to travel to get there.
From coastal islands like Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard to the wide stretches of sand in the South, these are the best East Coast beaches for an expedition that is generally safe and socially far from other people.
1. Nantucket, Massachusetts
One of the most remote beaches in the world may be found at Great Point, which is located at the very tip of Nantucket Island’s easternmost point. Because of this, getting there requires both a four-wheel-drive vehicle and a beach pass.
When you do, you’ll discover a beach that stretches on for kilometers, a historic lighthouse, and even some piping plovers now and again. Another great option is Madaket Beach, which is located on the other end of the island and is particularly beautiful after sunset.
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2. Menemsha Beach, Massachusetts
Menemsha Beach in Massachusetts is a tranquil refuge that is surrounded by placid seas that gently lap the coast. This beach also has expansive views of the Elizabeth Islands and surf that is perfect for swimming in peace. Visit this location to hunt for sea glass and see the arrival of fishing boats into the quaint harbor of the hamlet.
Menemsha Beach is at its most beautiful in the early evening when it is one of the greatest places on the island to see the sunset, so make sure you remain until then if you plan on going there. It is the ideal location for couples since it combines elegance and a sense of mystery. Bring a bottle of wine, buy a lobster from one of the nearby seafood shacks, and get cozy on a blanket while you wait for dark in New England.
3. Bethany Beach, Delaware
Families in the Mid-Atlantic region enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Bethany Beach’s boardwalk, which is situated on the coast approximately 130 miles southeast of Washington, D.C. and less than 15 miles north of Ocean City, Maryland. Dunes and excellent surfing conditions may be found in Fenwick Island State Park, which is also located in this general region.
Additionally, Delaware Seashore State Park has beaches on barrier islands. While there are lifeguards on duty at Bethany Beach, activities like boating, playing ball, bringing pets, and drinking alcohol are not permitted. This helps to keep the atmosphere peaceful. Vacation cottages are available at reasonable prices, and from the middle of June until the weekend after Labor Day, the city puts on free live concerts, movie screenings, bonfires, and other events for children every week.
4. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is the East Coast’s premier vacation destination since it is home to the biggest resort along the Grand Strand, which is 60 miles long. During the warm summer months, the city comes alive with a plethora of activities, including beaches that dot the Strand, amusement and water parks, restaurants, and live entertainment.
The real beach in Myrtle Beach is a long strip of silky white sand that stretches for miles and offers a variety of activities, including sunbathing, fishing, swimming, sailing, and surfing. This is one of the best east coast beaches.
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5. Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts
Although the famed Cape Cod peninsula in Massachusetts is surrounded by houses worth $25 million, budget-minded vacationers may find the Outer Cape beaches closer to Cape Cod National Seashore to be more appealing due to their tranquility and lower prices. There is an abundance of reasonably priced hotel and vacation rental alternatives available in Eastham and Wellfleet.
The Breakers Resort in Dennis Port (located only a few minutes walks from Inman Road Beach) has cozy studios, as well as one- and two-bedroom rooms for families with children. Coast Guard Beach on the Atlantic Ocean and First Encounter Beach on Cape Cod Bay are two more of the best beaches on Cape Cod that visitors should check out.