The Best Beach Getaways on the East Coast

The East Coast is dotted with sand-side hot spots and is known for its local beach towns. Cozy and quaint, they’re relaxed respites with sun and sea where clambakes and lemonade are on heavy rotation and everything moves at a more casual pace.

Up North, paddle your way down to New Hampshire’s Hampton Beach or hit the Jersey Shore for some GTL (or maybe just the T part). Head to Connecticut’s eastern coastal cities like Greenwich, Madison or Old Saybrook for classic New England vibes.

Legendary summer vacation hotspot Cape Cod and its neighbor Nantucket Island are must visits for family fun, whether you stay in Chatham or Provincetown, while Hilton Head, Kiawah Island and Isle of Palms host some of the best beach resorts in South Carolina.

Is there any better backdrop to a romantic trip with your partner than a dramatic view of the ocean? Whether you’re snuggled up on the sand, getting cozy in a beach house or relaxing in the sea, beach vacations bring on the romance.

Jekyll Island, Savannah and Sea Island in Georgia are oozing with southern beachside charm, making it ideal for spending quality time with your better half. Hotels in the area often feature romantic extras like private beaches, historical buildings and gorgeous gardens.

For a romantic coastal getaway in New England, try Madison, Connecticut, Newport, Rhode Island or Chatham, Massachusetts.

Hit up an adults-only resort in Florida for some adult fun in the sun, complete with lusty amenities like soaker tubs, hammocks for lounging and private pools.

Searching for something a bit more private? The secluded East Coast beaches in Maine are cool and quiet – perfect for a weekend away with your honey. Portsmouth, Kennebunkport and Bar Harbor are particular favourites.

Few vacation places are as perfect for bringing the kids as the beach. No matter their ages, there are endless activities on the sand and sea where the youngins can burn off some energy, whether it’s flying kites, a game of volleyball, body-surfing or practicing their cartwheels. Kiddos can amuse themselves for hours building sandcastles trying to jump over the waves while parents settle down with a beach read, or the whole family can get together for a lunchtime picnic under the sun.

Maine, Massachusetts and the Carolinas have some of the best East Coast beaches for families. Travel south to Florida for a world class variety of family beach resorts, especially in Miami Beach.

So head to the beach to build lasting family memories. Don’t forget the snacks and sunscreen!

The West Coast may get all the glory, but there are plenty of places to catch some waves in the East. Gnarly swells are available all along the coastline, so you’ll have lots of options on where to hang ten.

Make like the Beach Boys and surf the USA at New Smyrna Beach in Florida, a warm weather surfing haven boasting 300 surfable days a year, or Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina if you’re looking for a challenge. Fancy somewhere further North? If you’re brave enough to dive into the frigid waters, try Montauk in NY, one of the best surfing spots on the east coast.

If you’re looking for selection when it comes to your east coast beach vacay, there’s no better place to be than Florida. Surrounded by coastline on three sides, you’ll be spoiled for choice and the local beach resorts are second to none. From Daytona Beach to Destin, the state offers a beach ideal for every traveler.

If you’re searching for peace and quiet, try Fort Lauderdale. Looking for more of a party scene? Palm Beach will be right up your alley.

Book a resort that promises fun for the whole family or a beachfront hotel that opens right onto the sand. A couple of our favourites: the Don Cesar and the Naples Grande Beach Resort.