Living on the East Coast? Lucky you! The best beaches on the East Coast are right at your fingertips, and trust us, they rival anything the West Coast has to offer. With over 30,000 miles of coastline, there’s no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From charming beach towns like Cape May, New Jersey, to the laid-back vibes of Folly Beach, South Carolina, these spots offer a unique escape from the usual touristy destinations.
We’ve uncovered a few of the best beaches on the East Coast, from secluded, off-the-radar shores to iconic must-see classics. Forget the crowded resorts – these beaches offer something truly special. So, grab your sunscreen, slap on those flip flops, and get ready for an unforgettable beach adventure.
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Best Beaches on the East Coast: Maine’s Sand Beach
Looking for one of the best beaches on the East Coast? Sand Beach in Maine is a hidden gem within Acadia National Park, just twelve miles south of Bar Harbor. Surrounded by rocky cliffs and a stunning coniferous forest, this small beach offers rare soft sand, perfect for sunbathing.
For adventurous souls, the Beehive Trail, a challenging 1.4-mile loop that climbs 450 feet, offers jaw-dropping views of the beach below—a must-do hike for thrill-seekers. While the water is chilly, rarely exceeding 60 degrees Fahrenheit, bold swimmers can take an invigorating dip in the Atlantic. Lifeguards are on duty in the summer, so it’s a safe spot for families too.
Access to Sand Beach is free, despite its location in Acadia National Park, but be warned—parking fills up fast on weekends, so arriving early is key. Whether you’re hiking or just enjoying the sand, Sand Beach is easily one of the best beaches on the East Coast!
Discover Roque Bluffs State Park
Roque Bluffs State Park, tucked away in Down East Maine, just eight miles from Machias, is one of the best beaches on the East Coast. This 274-acre park offers a half-mile stretch of sand and pebbles, dividing the chilly ocean waters of Englishman Bay from the warmer 60-acre Simpson Pond. On hot summer days, you can take a dip in the refreshing ocean, then warm up with a swim in the cozy waters of the pond—a two-in-one beach adventure!
While Roque Bluffs isn’t your typical lounging beach (the pebbles make sure of that), it’s perfect for a scenic walk. Enjoy stunning views of islands popping up from the ocean as you stroll along the shore. Love hiking? The park’s short trails wind through fields and woodlands, offering breathtaking views of Pond Cove and Great Cove.
Roque Bluffs State Park isn’t just for swimming—it’s a nature lover’s paradise. Whether you’re exploring trails or soaking in the views, this hidden gem stands out as one of the best beaches on the East Coast.
Know Before You Go: It’s ideal for a day trip from Machias, but arrive early to make the most of your adventure!
Why Seabrook Beach is One of the Best Beaches on the East Coast You’ve Never Heard Of!
Seabrook Beach, just 15 miles south of Portsmouth near the Massachusetts border, is a hidden gem among the best beaches on the East Coast. New Hampshire may have the shortest coastline at only 18 miles, but Seabrook Beach makes every mile count. Unlike the bustling Hampton Beach, Seabrook offers a peaceful escape with soft white sand, gentle waves, and a relaxed atmosphere.
What makes Seabrook Beach truly special is its quiet charm. It’s not overcrowded like its neighbors, and that’s partly thanks to the tricky parking situation—without a resident permit, parking is nearly impossible. But if you can get here, you’ll be rewarded with a serene stretch of beach, perfect for a peaceful stroll or relaxing under an umbrella. Plus, the waves are great for surfing, and the wild dunes give it a secluded, untouched vibe.
Know Before You Go: To avoid parking challenges, consider biking from Seabrook town (less than 5 miles away) or taking an Uber. Another option is to park at Hampton Beach and walk across Hampton Bridge, just over a mile to Seabrook Beach.
Explore the Best Beaches on the East Coast at Cape Cod National Seashore!
Cape Cod National Seashore, located on the Outer Cape about 90 miles from downtown Boston, is a must-visit among the best beaches on the East Coast. This stunning 40-mile stretch of coastline features soft sandy beaches, freshwater ponds, and towering dunes. Dotted with lighthouses, cranberry bogs, and hiking trails, Cape Cod National Seashore is perfect for beach lovers looking for adventure and relaxation.
Must-Visit Beaches:
- Coast Guard Beach (Eastham): This beach is great for lounging and swimming on the Atlantic side. You can also enjoy paddling in nearby Nauset Bay or Salt Pond Bay.
- Marconi Beach: Offering sweeping views of the Atlantic, this beach is perfect for hiking along the bluffs, where you might even spot a whale if you’re lucky!
Pro Tips:
- Traffic Woes: Be aware that Cape Cod traffic is famous for being heavy during summer weekends. If you plan to visit during peak times, consider staying overnight or through the weekend to avoid the rush.
- Stay in Provincetown: Despite its popularity and higher costs, Provincetown is worth the visit. This lively artist colony and LGBTQ+ haven brings a vibrant energy that complements the peaceful beach days.
Sachuest Beach: A Top Contender for Best Beach on the East Coast
Located in Middletown, right next to Newport, Rhode Island, Sachuest Beach, also known as Second Beach, is a strong contender for one of the best beaches on the East Coast. This beautiful mile-long stretch of sand offers not only sun and surf but also excellent amenities that make for a fantastic beach day.
At the western edge, known as Surfer’s End, you’ll find consistent waves, making it a favorite spot for surfers. But if surfing isn’t your thing, head to the eastern tip, where the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge begins. This refuge features over three miles of trails, perfect for birdwatchers. Here, you might spot the harlequin duck, part of one of the largest wintering populations on the East Coast!
For those who love night adventures, Sachuest Beach has a night fishing permit system, allowing you to catch striped bass under the stars.
Before you go, be ready for a lively atmosphere. This beach has concession stands, bathrooms, grills, and more. While it may not offer seclusion, Sachuest Beach is an excellent choice for a day of fun and convenience. With its combination of sun, surf, and nearby cultural attractions, it’s undoubtedly one of the best beaches on the East Coast!
Catch Waves and Sun at Ditch Plains Park Beach: One of the Best Beaches on the East Coast!
Location: Just two miles east of Montauk Village, at the end of Long Island.
Why We Love It: This beach offers some of the best surf breaks on the East Coast!
Ditch Plains Park Beach isn’t just another beach; it’s a must-visit spot for surf lovers and beachgoers alike. Known as one of the best beaches on the East Coast, this two-mile sandy stretch is perfect for spreading out your towel and soaking up the sun while enjoying a quintessential summer vibe.
The beach is lifeguarded from Memorial Day to Labor Day, ensuring a safe environment for families and casual swimmers. Foodies will love the Ditch Wich food truck, which serves delicious poke bowls that can compete with the waves for your attention.
Ditch Plains is famous for its welcoming surf break, offering decent waves regardless of the swell direction. The surf lineup can get crowded, so if you can visit during a midweek fall day, you might just score a private surfing session on one of the best beaches on the East Coast.
Before You Go: Parking requires an East Hampton permit, so consider taking an Uber or biking from Montauk. If you want sun, surf, and great food, Ditch Plains Park Beach should definitely be on your list of the best beaches on the East Coast!
Discovering One of the Best Beaches on the East Coast: Island Beach State Park, New Jersey
Location: Nestled on the Barnegat Peninsula, just south of the bustling town of Seaside Heights
Why We Love It: It’s a pristine escape with 10 miles of white sand, tucked away from the usual boardwalk chaos.
Island Beach State Park might just be the East Coast’s best-kept secret, featuring a stunningly preserved stretch of coast that feels a world away from the typical New Jersey beach scene. If your idea of a beach day includes dodging frisbees and fighting for towel space, think again. Here, the scenery is wild and free—no boardwalk fries or blaring arcades in sight.
This gem covers over 10 miles of dunes, forests, and wetlands. It’s not just one of the best beaches on the East Coast; it’s a natural paradise begging to be explored. Birdwatchers can revel in sightings of the state’s largest osprey colony, alongside peregrine falcons and an array of shorebirds that make a pit stop during their migrations.
Anglers and kitesurfers alike are drawn to this spot, one of the best beaches on the East Coast for those who love a good catch or the thrill of riding the wind. Swimmers aren’t left out either, with a designated area perfect for a refreshing dip in the ocean. Prefer dry land? The park’s trails offer eight miles of exploration opportunities.
Pro Tip Before You Go: Embrace the adventurous spirit of one of the best beaches on the East Coast by kayaking from Island Beach into the Sedge Island Wildlife Management Area. With four unique water trails, it’s a paddle enthusiast’s dream. Forget sunbathing—Island Beach State Park invites you to discover its wild side.
Related: Top 12 Best Beaches in the World (You NEED to Visit in 2024!)
Uncovering Hidden Gems: Delaware Seashore State Park, a Top Contender for Best Beaches on the East Coast
Location: Just seven miles south of Rehoboth Beach.
Why We Love It: Enjoy six miles of sandy beaches and 20 miles of bay shoreline packed with fun activities!
Delaware Seashore State Park is a treasure among the best beaches on the East Coast. Located between Indian River Bay, Rehoboth Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean, this park is a playground for everyone who loves beach activities.
Here, you can swim, surf, and sail to your heart’s content. If you’re feeling adventurous, try windsurfing, paddling, or crabbing. Prefer to stay on land? Take a scenic one-mile hike through Burton Island Nature Preserve, where raised boardwalks offer stunning views of the marshland.
For surfers, the Indian River Inlet offers exciting and challenging surf breaks, especially with southern winds. It’s a great spot for catching waves on one of the best beaches on the East Coast.
Before You Go: There’s a $5 daily fee ($10 for out-of-state visitors). This small fee gives you access to one of the best-managed parks, supporting activities like birdwatching, surfcasting, and paddling.
Wild Hearts and Wild Horses: Assateague Island National Seashore Among the Best Beaches on the East Coast
Location: Take a short 10-mile leap from Ocean City, Maryland, and you’ve escaped to Assateague Island’s wild embrace on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Why We Love It: Thirty-seven miles of untamed dunes and the thrill of spotting wild horses running free—what’s not to love?
Assateague Island National Seashore isn’t your typical seaside getaway. Straddling the Maryland and Virginia border, this sprawling barrier island offers a breathtaking glimpse into what makes it one of the best beaches on the East Coast. With its rugged landscape and bands of wild horses, Assateague is more than just a beach—it’s a scene straight out of a novel.
For those eager to witness these majestic animals, the Maryland side is your best bet, or consider enhancing your chances with a guided tour. The island is divided into two distinct sections, each accessible by its own entrance—without a way to drive directly from one to the other unless you fancy a mainland detour.
If adventure is your middle name and you’ve got a four-wheel drive, an over-sand vehicle (OSV) permit could be your golden ticket. This pass unlocks nearly the full length of this best beach on the East Coast, from secluded fishing spots to solitary stretches ideal for soaking in the sea air.
Before You Go: Assateague might be getting popular, with a record 2.3 million visitors in 2022, but don’t let that deter you. Yes, it’s one of the best beaches on the East Coast, but with a bit of planning (think OSV permit or a good pair of walking shoes), you can still find your own slice of paradise away from the crowds. The northern end offers a bit more breathing room than the bustling south, so consider where you plant your beach umbrella.
Pack your sense of adventure and maybe a camera—Assateague Island National Seashore is more than just one of the best beaches on the East Coast; it’s a wild, natural spectacle that you won’t want to miss.
