20 Best Beaches on the East Coast
The East Coast is home to some of the most stunning beaches and views. Whether you find yourself in quaint coasts of Maine or the sunny shores of Florida there is a beach out there for everyone. Below is a list of the top 20 beaches everyone should consider visiting. Let’s start in Maine and travel south all the way to Florida.
Old Orchard Beach, Old Orchard, ME:
Nestled on the coast of York County, Old Orchard Beach not only offers sandy shores that span for 7 miles but also offers a boardwalk, carnival games and more. With so many activities to do, it makes Old Orchard Beach a popular location as there is something to do for everyone in the family.
Ogunquit Beach, Ogunquit, ME
Ogunquit Beach, is known for its grassy dunes and scenic views. At hide tide, the Ogunquit River flows behind the beach which provides a great spot to go tubing, paddleboarding, or kayaking.
Hampton Beach State Park, Hampton, NH
Hampton Beach State Park is located on the east coast of New Hampshire overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The boardwalk nearby is a fun post-beach activity. This beach has easy accessibility and the small amount of rocks and seaweed is definitely a bonus.
Mayflower Beach, Dennis, MA:
Mayflower Beach is located on the bayside of Cape Cod, with white sands and beautiful views. During low tide, the water goes out several hundred feet creating room for all sorts of beach games and activities.
Coast Guard Beach, Eastham, MA
Part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, Coast Guard beach is awesome for observing wildlife from birdwatching to seals basking on the shore, Coast Guard has it all. From the main beach, you can access “the Spit” (a small waterway that connects Nauset Marsh to the Atlantic Ocean). Coast Guard Beach is one of the only few beaches where you can see “the Spit”, the marsh and the Atlantic Ocean at once.
Herring Cove Beach, Provincetown, MA:
At the tip of Cape Cod lies Herring Cove Beach, which is located bayside and is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. Since Herring Cove is bayside, it is shielded from the larger waves that outer Cape Cod experiences, making this a great spot for little ones!
Narragansett Beach, Narragansett, RI
Rhode Island may be the smallest state, however, is packed with exceptional beaches. Narragansett’s large waves make it a popular spot to surf and skimboard. Even if water sports are not your cup of tea, relaxing in a beach chair and watching can create a fantastic day.
Second Beach, Newport, RI
Second Beach is one of Newport's most popular beaches and for a good reason. The waves make it a surfer's paradise. And the epic scenery creates an excellent photo opportunity for the photographers out there.
Walnut Beach, Milford, CT
A hidden gem located on the coast of Connecticut, has gorgeous views and is a great spot to watch boats passing by. The pier which is located on the beach not only provides excellent views but is also a great spot for fishing fanatics to cast a line.
Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison, CT
Hammonasset Beach State Park is a beach located on the Long Island Sound and is Conecticut’s largest shoreline park. The beach is easily accessible and is a great place to go for a walk as it stretches roughly two miles.
The Cove Beach, Cape May, NJ
The scenery at The Cove beach is magical, the horizon overlooks the Cape May Lighthouse and every day there is a flag raising and lowering. The calming atmosphere makes for the perfect weekend getaway.
Sunset Beach, Cape May, NJ
As you might’ve guessed from the name, Sunset Beach is famous for its incredible sunsets. If you get lucky, sometimes you can see whales migrating down the coast from Canada.
Emerald Isle Beach, Emerald Isle, NC
Emerald Isle Beach is the spot to be for both fishing and watersports. The clear blue-green waters and sandy beach make it a perfect option for those looking to relax. Whether you are looking to paddleboard or to read a book, Emerald Isle is the place for you.
Nags Head, Outer Banks, NC
Nags Head is a gorgeous beach in the Outer Banks. Known for the impressive dunes, constantly warm weather, and spacious beachfront makes Nags Head the epitome of relaxation.
Coligny Beach Park, Hilton Head, SC
Coligny Beach Park not only has beach access but also has a park equipped with a playground and swings attached. The walking and biking trails provide a great option for those who are looking to exercise.
Kiawah Beachwalker Park, Kiawah Island, SC
Kiawah Island is located just 25 miles southwest of Charleston. Kiawah Beachwalker Park delivers a relaxing environment due to smaller crowds, clean facilities, and stunning views.
Cherry Grove Beach, Cherry Grove, SC
Located in the North end of Myrtle Beach Cherry Grove Beach is a small, quaint beach that promotes relaxation through its beautiful water and constant sunshine. For the shell collectors out there, there is no shortage of seashells lining the shoreline.
Clearwater Beach, Clearwater, FL
Crystal clear waters and white sands make Clearwater Beach a hot commodity. Florida’s warm climate allows for year-round fun.
Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota, FL
Siesta Key Beach has a beautiful quartz sand beach that prevents the sand from getting too hot under your feet. The low tides create tidal pools which are great for watching little ones. Siesta Key Beach is also known for its incredible sunset views.
South Beach Park, Boca Raton, FL
South Beach Park offers breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset. The wildlife at South Beach Park is also impressive from a range of different flora and fauna. In addition to this, there is a restricted area for fishing.
