Places to vacation on the east coast beaches

Siesta Beach, Sarasota, Florida

A beach famed for the quality of its sand must surely be worth a mention on any “best beaches” list. Fine and white, the sand of Siesta in Flordia is often described as having the consistency of powdered sugar. Unlike other beaches, quartz contributes to 99 percent of the sand here – and to beautiful effect. In addition, waters are calm and clear: superb for swimming and paddle boarding. In fact, the calm conditions make this one of the best east coast beaches for families, too.

Cumberland National Seashore, Georgia

The undeveloped island of Cumberland National Seashore in Georgia is a breathtaking destination for wildlife buffs and those of a more adventurous nature hoping to escape crowds. Although bikes are available to hire on the island, you must bring all your supplies with you, a proviso that discourages many. So if you can brave the lack of convenience, you’re in for a truly memorable day at the beach.

South Beach, Miami, Florida

Welcome to Miami, a city bursting with cultural swagger and vivacious Latin vibes. This metropolis fuses artsy panache with a tropical climate, and South Beach (the so-called American Riviera) pulses with activity from dawn until dusk, drawing in surfers, sun worshippers and scenesters alike.

The architecturally renowned Art Deco district and instagram-worthy palms of Ocean Drive makes this beach a win for holidaymakers looking for something edgier, with a heady dose of glitz and glamour.

Beachwalker County Park, Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Myrtle beach is the obvious option for tourists visiting South Carolina, but Beachwalker County Park (south of Myrtle) is a real treasure.

Without the crowds and usual tourist garb, this unspoiled islet can give the illusion that you’re holidaying on your own private beach; indeed, ten miles of inviting sandy dunes ensures sun-seekers won’t have to hunt long for a secluded pitch. The water here is calm enough for beginner surfers, and lessons are on offer for all abilities.

Menemsha Beach, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Calm waters lap the shore of the peaceful haven of Menemsha Beach in Massachusetts, which boasts sprawling views of the Elizabeth Islands and surf ideal for relaxed swimming. Head here to collect sea glass and watch fishing boats come into the small village harbour.

Make sure you stay for sundown, as Menemsha Beach is most stunning come early evening, when it’s one of the best spots to catch sunset on the island. With style and romance, it’s the perfect spot for couples. Bring a bottle of wine, pick up a lobster picnic from one of the convenient seafood shacks, and bundle together on a blanket to await dusk in quintessential New England style.

Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York

For a day, swap bustling Manhattan for the retro seaside glamour of Brooklyn’s Coney Island. Here you will witness a diverse slice of New York City’s inhabitants lapping up the gaudiness whilst guzzling hot dogs and cotton candy.

Thrill seekers can get their screams on any number of roller coasters, or survey the shore from atop the 150ft tall Wonder Wheel. It’s a great option for anyone with kids. When the sun shines, crowds flock to this vast beach to feel sand between their toes and cool off in the ocean.

On gloomy days, the beach and amusement parks lining the boardwalk take on a more desolate air – which is oddly just as appealing. If you like the local vibe, check out Brooklyn hotels in our guide to the best area to stay in New York City.

Cape May, New Jersey

One of the USA’s oldest seaside resorts, Cape May in New Jersey is resplendent with history and offers an evocative dose of old Americana to vacationers. With its lengthy beach, perfectly preserved Victorian clapboarding and plentiful lobster rolls (arguably the east coast staple diet), it’s among the best beach vacations on the east coast.

If you’re tiring of the sun/surf/swim formula, wildlife lovers will relish the nature trails that lead from the beach to Cape May Point Lighthouse, which are open to the public to explore. The town offers a welcoming atmosphere for strolling and shopping, with the brightly coloured “gingerbread” houses providing a picturesque setting throughout summer or winter.