family walking on beach

Discover the Best Family-Friendly Beaches in the U.S.

Beaches are a perfect destination for families to unwind, relax, and create unforgettable memories together. The United States has an abundance of family-friendly beaches that cater to children of all ages, offering a range of activities and amenities. From building sandcastles to swimming, let’s dive into the top family-friendly beaches in the U.S. that will make your next family vacation unforgettable.

  1. Coronado Beach, California
Coronado Beach (Photo: nathanhill0070)

Located in the charming seaside community of Coronado, just across the bay from San Diego, Coronado Beach boasts miles of soft, golden sand and calm, clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, boogie boarding, and paddleboarding. The beach is also home to the historic Hotel Del Coronado, a great place for a family lunch or dinner.

2. Kiawah Island Beachwalker Park, South Carolina

Kiawah Island, SC (Photo: Allison Carter)


Located on a barrier island just south of Charleston, Kiawah Island Beachwalker Park offers a picturesque setting for families to explore the natural wonders of the coast. The beach is a prime spot for shelling and birdwatching, and there are plenty of amenities available, including restrooms, showers, and a boardwalk.

3. Gulf State Park, Alabama

Gulf State Park
Gulf State Park (Photo: JodyB)


Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, Alabama, offers two miles of pristine, white sand beachfront for families to enjoy. The park also offers nature trails, a fishing pier, and a nature center, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration.

4. Cape May Beach, New Jersey

Beach Avenue, Cape May Beach, NJ (Photo: Smallbones)


Located on the southern tip of New Jersey, Cape May Beach is a family-friendly destination with a charming, historic seaside town. The beach is known for its soft sands, calm waters, and picturesque lighthouse, and there are plenty of activities available, such as parasailing, kayaking, and beachcombing.

5. Sand Harbor Beach, Nevada

Lake Tahoe, Sand Harbor Beach (Photo: Ken Lund)


Located on the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe, Sand Harbor Beach offers a unique family-friendly beach experience. The beach is surrounded by towering mountains and crystal-clear waters, providing a stunning backdrop for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The beach also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center.

6. Coquina Beach, North Carolina

Coquina Beach, North Carolina Outer Banks (Photo: Loren Biser)


Located on North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Coquina Beach is a family-friendly beach destination that offers miles of pristine, sandy shoreline. The beach also features a playground, picnic areas, and a bathhouse, making it an ideal spot for families to spend the day.

7. Tybee Island Beach, Georgia

Tybee Island Beach, Georgia (Photo: Paul Brennan)


Located just outside of Savannah, Tybee Island Beach offers a fun-filled beach experience for families. The beach is known for its wide, sandy shoreline and gentle waves, making it ideal for swimming and sandcastle building. Families can also enjoy the nearby lighthouse and pier, as well as a variety of restaurants and shops.

8. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach, Oregon (Photo: K. Kendall)


Located on the rugged Oregon coast, Cannon Beach is a family-friendly beach destination that offers a mix of natural beauty and charming small-town atmosphere. The beach is known for its iconic Haystack Rock and tide pools, providing endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

9. Destin Beach, Florida

Destin Beach, Florida (Photo: Steve Harwood)


Located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, Destin Beach offers miles of sugar-white sand and clear, emerald-green waters, making it an ideal spot for families to swim, snorkel, and play. The beach also offers a range of activities, including fishing, parasailing, and dolphin watching tours.

10. Hanalei Bay Beach, Hawaii

Hanalei Bay Beach, Hawaii (Photo: Robert Linsdell)


Located on Kauai’s north shore, Hanalei Bay Beach offers a stunning tropical setting for families to enjoy. The beach boasts a crescent-shaped shoreline, gentle waves, and spectacular mountain views, making it an ideal