When planning a beach getaway with your family, picking the right destination can make all the difference between a good holiday and an unforgettable one.

Some beaches are better suited for safe swimming, sandcastle building, and easy logistics with kids, while others offer a vibrant boardwalk and extra entertainment beyond the water.

1. Siesta Beach — Siesta Key, Florida

Siesta Beach consistently ranks among the top beaches in the U.S. thanks to its powdery white quartz sand that stays cool even on the hottest days and its shallow, calm waters that are ideal for young swimmers and toddlers. It’s a great pick for families who want classic beach fun with safety and comfort.

How to Get There: Siesta Key is near Sarasota on Florida’s Gulf Coast. From the Sarasota‑Bradenton International Airport, it’s about a 30‑ to 40‑minute drive. Most visitors reach the beach by car, and parking is available in nearby lots and street spots, though they can fill up quickly in peak season.

Entrance Fee: Public beach access is free, though parking may have fees depending on location.

Best Time to Visit: The spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are excellent choices — warm weather with fewer crowds than the peak summer months.

What to Do: Enjoy long days building sandcastles, swim in gentle Gulf waters, or stroll the nearby village for snacks and souvenirs. Lifeguards are on duty during peak hours, adding peace of mind for families.

Where to Stay:

Mid-range: Siesta Key Beach Resort – $180–$250/night

Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota – $450–$700/night

Budget: Siesta Key Palms Hotel – $120–$180/night

Where to Eat:

The Cottage: Breakfast and brunch – $10–$20 per person

Big Olaf Creamery: Ice cream treats – $5–$10 per person

2. Ocean City Beach — New Jersey

Ocean City, New Jersey, is known as a family‑oriented seaside resort with miles of guarded beaches and a classic boardwalk lined with entertainment and shops. The beach town’s emphasis on family values makes it extremely popular with parents and kids alike.

How to Get There: Ocean City is part of New Jersey’s Jersey Shore, reachable by car from major Northeast cities like Philadelphia and New York in a few hours. Public transit options include regional rail and bus services to nearby hubs.

Entrance Fee: Free.

Best Time to Visit: Summer months, especially June through August, offer lifeguards, warm water, and vibrant boardwalk activities. Spring and early autumn can be quieter and more relaxed.

What to Do: Swim in the protected ocean zones, take the kids for a boardwalk ride, or rent beach gear for games on the sand. With safe swimming areas and easily walkable streets, it’s ideal for families looking to combine beach time with boardwalk fun.

Where to Stay:

Mid-range: Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort – $200–$300/night

Luxury: Dunes Manor Hotel & Suites – $300–$500/night

Budget: Ocean City Hostel or nearby motels – $80–$150/night

Where to Eat:

Manco & Manco Pizza: Classic boardwalk pizza – $10–$20 per person

Boardwalk Fries & Funnel Cake Stands: Snacks for kids – $5–$10

3. Clearwater Beach — Florida

Clearwater Beach is famous for its gentle, shallow waters and wide shoreline, perfect for children learning to swim or play near the water’s edge. Its regular recognition as one of the top family beaches in the country makes it a standout Gulf Coast choice.

How to Get There: Located on Florida’s west coast, Clearwater Beach is reachable by car from Tampa in about 40–50 minutes. The nearest major airport is Tampa International Airport.

Entrance Fee: Beach access and most public areas are free, though parking and some activity rentals carry separate charges.

Best Time to Visit: Fall and spring offer comfortable weather with fewer crowds, while summer ensures the warmest water temperatures.

What to Do: Kids can build sandcastles, watch for dolphins offshore, and enjoy playgrounds near the beach. Pier areas often have family‑friendly performances and craft vendors that add to the seaside atmosphere.

Where to Stay:

Mid-range: Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach – $250–$400/night

Luxury: Sandpearl Resort – $500–$800/night

Budget: Pelican Pointe Hotel & Resort – $150–$200/night

Where to Eat:

Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill: Gulf Coast seafood – $20–$40 per person

Clear Sky Beachside Cafe: Breakfast and lunch – $15–$30 per person

4. Myrtle Beach — South Carolina

Why It’s Great: With 60 miles of beaches, Myrtle Beach blends seaside fun with entertainment, activities, and nature. Families appreciate the variety of things to do, from watersports to mini‑golf, boardwalk arcades, and dunes that seem to stretch forever.

How to Get There: Myrtle Beach is in eastern South Carolina, easily accessed by car and regional airport connections. Most families drive or rent vehicles to explore the extensive coastline.

Entrance Fee: Public beach access is free, though some state park areas may charge small parking fees or camping fees.

Best Time to Visit: The late spring through early fall months are best for beach activities, though peak summer can be busy.

What to Do: Stroll the boardwalk, explore amusement parks, and enjoy gentle surf zones for swimming. Picnic areas and pavilions make extended beach days easy and fun for families of all ages.

Where to Stay:

Mid-range: Ocean Reef Resort – $150–$250/night

Luxury: Marina Inn at Grande Dunes – $350–$600/night

Budget: Myrtle Beach Travelodge or motels – $80–$120/night

Where to Eat:

Sea Captain’s House: Seafood with ocean views – $25–$50 per person

River City Cafe: Burgers and casual fare – $15–$25 per person

5. Hilton Head Island — South Carolina

Why It’s Great: Hilton Head Island’s beaches are known for wide, clean sands and gentle tidal shelves, making them excellent for families with young children. The island also offers bike paths, nature preserves, and open spaces for exploration beyond beach time.

How to Get There: Hilton Head is accessible by car through South Carolina’s Lowcountry region and has its own regional airport as well. Most visitors rent cars to navigate the island’s scenic routes.

Entrance Fee: Public beach access is free, though some parking areas charge hourly or daily fees.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall provide warm but not sweltering conditions, while summer offers peak beachgoing weather.

What to Do: Enjoy shallow shoreline swimming, rent beach bikes, explore shaded picnic spots, or join hatchling turtle walks and other seasonal nature programs.

Where to Stay:

Mid-range: Holiday Inn Resort – $200–$300/night

Luxury: Palmera Beach Resort – $400–$700/night

Budget: Beachside villas or inns – $100–$180/night

Where to Eat:

Skillets Cafe & Grill: Family-friendly breakfast and lunch – $10–$20 per person

Giuseppi’s Pizza & Pasta: Italian casual dining – $15–$25 per person

Tips for Planning Your Family Beach Trip

Pack Essentials: Bring sunscreen, hats, plenty of water, towels, and a first‑aid kit.

Arrive Early: Popular beaches can fill up quickly for parking and good spots on the sand.

Check Lifeguard Hours: For safety, swim in areas with posted lifeguard coverage when possible.

Mix Experiences: Balance beach days with local attractions like boardwalk rides, nature tours, or shopping.

A family beach vacation doesn’t have to be stressful — with the right destination and planning, it becomes a highlight of the year. From the powdery sands of Siesta Beach to the vibrant boardwalk of Ocean City, these five beaches offer something for every family. No matter which shoreline you choose, your family will return home with stories to share for years to come.