Ocean City, N.J.
Ocean City in Cape May County, N.J., has been long associated with family trips to the beach. The seaside resort has prohibited the sale of alcohol since the late 1800s and boasts a two-and-a-half-mile boardwalk along the shore. Aside from swimming in the ocean, guests can take part in shopping and dining, as well as amuse themselves with arcade games and rides. Check out Playland's Castaway Cove for rides, games and funnel cake.
Playland's Castaway Cove
Boardwalk and E. 10th St.
Ocean City, NJ 08226
609-399-4751
Marco Island, Fla.
Less stuffy than its neighbor beach in Naples, Marco Island showcases the best of what Florida's coast has to offer. This little isle on the Sunshine State's west side is dedicated to tourism, with enough snorkel shops and jet-ski rentals to entertain the entire family. With Walt Disney World only a two-hour car ride away, it won't be difficult to entice the kids to get on board. Make sure to stop by the Snook Inn, an outdoor-seating restaurant with live music and plenty of family noise.
Snook Inn
1215 Bald Eagle Drive
Marco Island, FL 34145
239-394-3313
Duck, N.C.
Boasting seven miles of pristine beach, Duck, N.C., is the type of place parents dream of taking their children. The idyllic setting includes hiking paths, outdoor cafes and ice cream stands, in a place where adults and kids can play together. The Duck tourism center lays claim to the fact that all of its shops are locally owned and operated, giving the place a charming feeling. Ocean Atlantic Rentals is an easy solution for families traveling with young children or needing some extra space for growing toddlers. The place rents out strollers and roll-away beds, as well as wheelchairs, bicycles, kayaks and more.
Ocean Atlantic Rentals
1194 Duck Road
Duck, NC 27949
252-261-4346
La Push, Wash.
La Push isn't an obvious choice for a beach vacation but is well worth the trip. Made famous by the "Twilight" novels, this stretch of beach is home to the Quileute American Indian tribe. An excellent spot for surfing, it's also known for its whale-watching opportunities. The beach features modern resorts right on the water, with restaurants available for those not wanting to make the 12-mile drive to Forks, the next nearest town. For a charming hotel, look into the Quileute Oceanside Resort, which offers individual cabins close enough to hear the waves crash.
Quileute Oceanside Resort
320 Ocean Drive
La Push, WA 98350
360-374-5267
