8 East Coast Beach Getaways Your Kids Will Beg to Visit Again

The East Coast is home to a whopping 2,000 miles of stunning coastline¹, offering a wealth of opportunities for unforgettable family beach vacations. With that much shoreline to explore, there are a few standout destinations that kids will absolutely love and beg to visit again and again.

So pack your sunscreen and get ready for an adventure at one of these eight incredible East Coast beaches.

1. Ocean City, MD

Ocean City is a classic beach town that’s perfect for families. One of the most unique attractions is Pirate Adventures of Ocean City, where kids can set sail on a real pirate ship and search for treasure. The boardwalk is another must-visit, with its iconic Ferris wheel, carousel, and arcade games. 

2. Hilton Head Island, SC

Hilton Head Island is known for its pristine beaches and lush landscapes. Families can enjoy horseback riding at Lawton Stables, where kids can take a pony ride or visit the small animal farm . The Coastal Discovery Museum offers interactive exhibits and tours focused on the island’s unique ecosystem.

3. Rehoboth Beach, DE

Rehoboth Beach is a charming seaside town with a family-friendly vibe. The mile-long boardwalk is the heart of the action, with classic amusements like Funland’s rides and midway games. 

Kids will love Jungle Jim’s, a mini-golf course with lush landscaping and bumper boats equipped with water guns. For a sweet treat, head to The Ice Cream Store, a local institution serving up homemade flavors since 1970.

4. Folly Beach, SC

Folly Beach is a laid-back island town just south of Charleston. Families can spend the day searching for shark teeth, crabbing off the pier, or exploring the island’s three playgrounds. The Folly Beach County Park is another great spot, with its clean beaches, chair rentals, and lifeguards on duty.

5. Chincoteague Island, VA

Chincoteague Island is famous for its wild ponies, which have roamed the island for centuries. The Chincoteague Pony Centre (ref) offers pony shows, rides, and day lessons for horse-loving kids. For a unique perspective, book a kayaking tour with Assateague Kayaking Adventures and paddle up close to the ponies in their natural habitat. 

6. Emerald Isle, NC

Emerald Isle is a family-friendly beach town on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast. The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is a highlight, with its touch tanks, live animal shows, and interactive exhibits . Families can also enjoy biking the island’s scenic trails, searching for seashells on the beach, or casting a line off the Bogue Inlet Pier. 

7. Old Silver Beach, Falmouth, MA

Old Silver Beach in Falmouth is a quintessential Cape Cod destination. This wide, sandy beach is perfect for building sandcastles, playing frisbee, or simply relaxing in the sun. For a sweet treat, head to Smitty’s Homemade Ice Cream, a local favorite serving up creative flavors like “Cape Cod Sand” (vanilla with chocolate chips and graham cracker). (ref) 

8. Cape May, NJ

Cape May is a charming seaside town known for its Victorian architecture and family-friendly atmosphere. The wide, sandy beaches are perfect for building sandcastles, flying kites, or simply relaxing in the sun. The town also features a variety of fun shops, ice cream parlors, and the Cape May County Park & Zoo, which is free to visit.

Source:
1. https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/east-coast-states