Where to Take the Kids: The Best Beach Towns for Families
If you’re dreaming about salty air, sand between your toes, and a stress-free trip that makes both kids and adults happy, then a family beach vacation might be calling your name. The tricky part? Picking the right beach town. Not every seaside spot is built for families. Some are too crowded, others are more about nightlife than sandcastles. But don’t worry—I’ve rounded up some of the best beach towns for families where you can relax, play, and make those golden summer memories.
1. Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May is like stepping into a postcard. With its colorful Victorian houses, clean beaches, and family-run ice cream shops, it’s one of the most charming beach towns in the U.S. Families love it because the vibe is relaxed, not rowdy. The beaches are wide and perfect for building sandcastles. Plus, the town is small enough that you don’t need to stress about traffic or long drives to get from the beach to dinner.
Pro tip: Check out the Cape May County Park & Zoo (it’s free!). It’s a nice break from the sun and keeps the kids entertained.
2. Outer Banks, North Carolina
If your family craves space to spread out, the Outer Banks is a dream. This string of barrier islands offers miles of wide, uncrowded beaches. There’s plenty of room for the kids to run, and you can even find spots where it feels like you’ve got the beach all to yourself.
Families love the OBX because there’s more than just sand and surf. You can climb the famous lighthouses, fly kites at Jockey’s Ridge (home to the tallest sand dunes on the East Coast), or take a wild horse tour in Corolla. It’s the kind of trip where every day feels like a new adventure.
3. Destin, Florida
Destin is famous for its sugar-white sand and clear, emerald-green water. It’s often called “the world’s luckiest fishing village,” but it’s also one of the best beach towns for families. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for younger kids, and the town has loads of family-friendly attractions like waterparks, mini-golf, and dolphin cruises.
The boardwalk is packed with fun restaurants and shops, and you can grab fresh seafood almost anywhere. Trust me, nothing beats eating shrimp with your toes still sandy from the beach.
4. Cannon Beach, Oregon
If your idea of a beach trip doesn’t have to be all about warm water, Cannon Beach is a magical choice. You’ve probably seen pictures of Haystack Rock—it’s that giant rock rising out of the water, and it looks like something from a movie. The beach is wide, the sunsets are jaw-dropping, and the whole town has a cozy, artsy vibe.
Families love it here because it’s safe, walkable, and full of small shops, bakeries, and galleries. Kids can explore tide pools around Haystack Rock at low tide, spotting starfish and sea anemones. And even if it’s a little chilly, roasting marshmallows by a beach fire is hard to beat.
5. Hilton Head, South Carolina
Hilton Head is a favorite for families who want a mix of beach time and outdoor fun. The island has over 12 miles of beaches, most of them gentle and perfect for kids to play in the waves. But beyond the sand, Hilton Head is a paradise for biking, kayaking, and even spotting dolphins from the shore.
The town is clean, safe, and built for families. Resorts and vacation rentals often have pools, playgrounds, and activities for kids. And if you’re a golf-loving parent, well, you’ll find plenty of courses here too.
6. San Diego, California
San Diego is basically a playground for families. With gorgeous beaches like La Jolla Shores and Coronado Beach, you get wide sandy stretches that are ideal for kids. But the best part? When you’ve had enough of the beach (if that’s even possible), you’ve got the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and Legoland all close by.
The city is sunny almost year-round, so timing your trip is a breeze. And while it’s bigger and busier than some of the other towns on this list, it’s still one of the best family beach destinations in the U.S.
7. Gulf Shores, Alabama
This one might surprise you, but Gulf Shores is a gem for families. The beaches are soft and white, the water is calm, and the town has a super friendly vibe. Families love the kid-friendly attractions like the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and the big waterpark nearby.
And the food? Let’s just say you’ll find plenty of places serving up fried shrimp, hush puppies, and other Southern comfort favorites. It’s relaxed, affordable, and perfect for a laid-back family trip.
Final Thoughts
So, what makes a beach town family-friendly? For me, it’s a mix of clean, safe beaches, easy-going vibes, and plenty of activities to keep everyone happy. Whether you’re chasing sunsets in Cannon Beach, biking along Hilton Head, or watching dolphins in Destin, these towns deliver exactly what a family vacation should be—fun, stress-free, and full of moments you’ll be talking about for years.
The best beach towns for family vacations aren’t about glitz or nightlife. They’re about simple joys—building sandcastles, eating ice cream on a boardwalk, or hearing your kids laugh as the waves chase their toes. And honestly? That’s what makes them unforgettable.