The Best Beaches on the Atlantic Seaboard

When you think of beaches on the east coast it's quite possible you think about Florida. It's true that most of Florida is on some body of water, whether it's the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico but head just a bit north and you'll discover the beaches of the Carolinas on up to the New England states. There's more to a beach then sand and surf and each beach has it's own atmosphere and unique offerings. A whole town and history lies behind each grain of sand.

From Savannah to St. Mary's Rivers, Georgia's coastline is largely made up of small islands, all with their own beach, town and history. Here you will find isolated beaches and cobblestone streets, as well as low country culinary delights such as fresh soft-shelled crab. Savor in the freshly caught shrimp from boats that you can watch from the shores of St. Simon's Island, Sea Island and Little St. Simon's Island. If you're looking for more tourism then Jekyll Island is your place. A great place for families and business travelers, Jekyll Island offers golf, bike paths and a water park. Any destination on Georgia's coastline will almost certainly lead you to it's abundance of history and lighthouses.

Head north and you'll find South Carolina's Myrtle Beach. Quite possibly the # 1 family beach vacation destination in America, Myrtle Beach boasts 60 miles of white sandy beaches and a wide variety of accommodations, sure to fit any budget. Myrtle Beach honestly has it all from quiet, private beaches in North Myrtle Beach to family friendly and more rowdy fun areas further south on the Grand Strand. Off the beach you'll find an abundance of shopping, dining and nightlife. It is impossible to come to Myrtle Beach and not have a great time.

Further north but still in the Carolinas you will run into peaceful shores of the Outer Banks of North Carolina. North Carolina's history stretches back to the 1500s when a group of settlers mysteriously disappeared and became the legend of the Lost Colony. North Carolina's rugged coastline is the burial ground to many fishing boats, with seven out of ten lighthouses still remaining. The Cape Hatteras lighthouse is America's tallest lighthouse at a staggering 208 feet. Whatever type of vacation you're looking for can be found on North Carolina's shores, whether it be wind surfing or golf, or even if your interests extend to wild life refuge.

Virginia is for lovers and no better place to share that love then Virginia Beach. With a 3 mile long oceanfront boardwalk, Virgina Beach has much to offer vacationers. Lifeguards are on duty from mid-May through mid-September and a variety of vendors, hotels and restaurants make up the visitor-friendly atmosphere. Virginia Beach is home to many free beach-related and family friendly activities and events. Visitors can rent tandem bicycles and tour the boardwalk or simply stroll along the sandy white beaches. Off the coastline, the city of Virginia Beach has water parks and nature preserves. There is truly something for everyone in this tourist-friendly city!

Those closer to the New England states who don't want to travel south need look no further then their own backyards. Hampton Beach, NH and Cape Cod, Mass. have tons to offer. Hampton Beach boasts 80 nights of free, live concert entertainment and fireworks once a week during the summer. If you're looking for a more quaint or low key atmosphere then Cape Cod is the answer. While some beaches have roaring waves and offer all the amenities expected in a beach vacation, some don't look much different then they did upon their discovery centuries ago. Where you plan to vacation depends on what kind of atmosphere you're looking for.

If you're thinking of a beach vacation on the east coast there are many options available. You simply need to know what kind of vacation you want and pick a beach. There is an endless supply of vacation ideas right on the eastern horizon.