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Dionis Beach: Nantucket Island, Massachusetts
This posh island, nicknamed ACK for its airport code, makes for a classic summertime diversion. Though it’s full of beaches, Dionis Beach is an area favorite, as the water is often warmer and calmer than others. Visitors can also enjoy viewing the sailboats and ferries as they enter Nantucket Harbor. Plus, this beach is far outside of town but easy to access by car. (Note: From the parking lot, you must walk down a sandy pathway to reach the beach itself.) Restrooms and changing rooms are available on-site, but be sure to pack a picnic (or have ACK Picnics do it for you) because there aren’t any eateries close by. Birders especially will love this spot, as it’s a rare shorebird nesting habitat.
Nags Head Beach: Nags Head, North Carolina
Visitors have been flocking to this slice of Southern paradise—the state’s first tourist colony—since 1830. Nags Head is a barrier island town, part of the Outer Banks (yep, like the show). With almost 12 miles of sandy shores and nearly 40 public beach access points, it’s a prime beach spot on the East Coast. Bonus: Bring Fido—the beach is dog-friendly! Just keep your pup leashed. Ready to stretch your legs? Pop over to Jockey’s Ridge State Park to check out the largest active sand dunes on the Eastern seaboard. After a day on the sand, head to the pier and quench your thirst at Fish Heads Bar & Grill, a seasonal spot with live music most nights. (Pro tip: If you’re a morning person, snag 20-cent steamed shrimp there from 4:00 to 6:00 a.m.)
North Beach: Tybee Island, Georgia
A great day trip from the southern belle city of Savannah, Tybee Island is a Georgia barrier island that has been welcoming crowds to its pretty seashore since the late 1800s. The North Beach is closest to the city and tends to have calmer water than other island beaches. Visit North Island Surf & Kayak to rent a stand-up paddleboard for the day. Plus, don’t miss the iconic Tybee Island Light Station, a well-known symbol of the area. Grab some grub at North Beach Bar & Grill, right on the water, to end your ideal beach day on Tybee Island.
Goose Rocks Beach: Kennebunkport, Maine
There’s a reason why Maine is such a popular destination for many East Coasters in the summer–from the decadent lobster to the lively towns, there’s so much to do and plenty to see. If you’re looking for a quaint and relaxing stay, Kennebunkport’s Goose Rocks beach will deliver. With three miles of white sand beaches and calm, clear water, the quiet and family-oriented area is a hit for all crowds. Once the sun sets, head to downtown Kennebunkport where you can enjoy a fresh lobster roll and shop around the town.
Cooper’s Beach: Southampton, New York
If you’re looking to visit the Hamptons this summer, Cooper’s Beach in Southampton should be on your itinerary. Voted one of the best beaches in the country, the quiet atmosphere, white sand and warm water make this place a hit for tourists and residents alike. The gorgeous shore offers a view of historic Hamptons mansions, and snack bars and bathrooms are nearby.
Crescent Beach: Block Island, Rhode Island
You may know New England’s Block Island as the “Bermuda of the north,” where 17 miles of beaches surround the upbeat, youthful town. Two and a half miles of the shore makes up Crescent Beach, stretching from Old Harbor to Clay Head. Crescent Beach features calm and clear waters, with plenty to do in the surrounding areas. At low tide, enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore, then head into town to enjoy a meal at The Beachead Restaurant, with gorgeous views of the ocean.
Diamond Beach: Wildwood Crest, New Jersey
Not quite Wildwood, but not quite Cape May, Wildwood Crest is the best of both worlds. Located perfectly in between Wildwood’s bustling boardwalk and the quaint downtown of Cape May, Diamond Beach features a beachside bar, live music, sunset yoga and gorgeous white sand beaches.
Gin Beach: Montauk, New York
At the farthest point of Long Island, you’ll find the historic town of Montauk. Known for great fishing, kayaking, surfing, and beachcombing, the nature-rich town comes to life in the summertime. Gin Beach is a quiet and clean family beach where many of the locals go to relax, and includes plenty of parking and on-site facilities.
Cahoon Hollow Beach: Cape Cod, Massachusetts
As one of Cape Cod’s most popular beaches, Cahoon Hollow is know for its breathtaking dunes and gorgeous shoreline. The dramatic landscape separates the rest of the world from the water, where you can indulge in the feeling of being on your own little island. While you’re there, make sure to grab a drink and some grub at The Beachcomber, a popular seaside restaurant nearby.
Folly Beach: Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is known for its rich history and charm, with a cheerful downtown area perfect for dining, shopping, and sight-seeing. Folly Beach–located in between Folly River and the Atlantic Ocean–is on James Island just 15 minutes south of Charleston, with picnic areas, beach rentals, and plenty of shoreline to post up on. You can find turtles and dolphins swimming nearby, and enjoy the scenic land that surrounds it.
Cape Charles Beach: Cape Charles, Virginia
The southernmost point of Virginia’s Eastern shore is home to Cape Charles Beach, which extends half a mile along Bay Avenue. It’s the only public beach in the area that does not charge an entrance or parking fee, and it features a paved walkway that makes for easy beach access. You’ll see Cape Charles pier adjacent to the beach, where you can fish, go crabbing, or watch boats sail by.
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