Family Vacation Ideas: Southeast Beaches

Given the South's frequent heat and humidity, it comes as no surprise that most of the region's beaches receive a steady stream of visitors. Quality among beaches varies – no one will mistake even the most acclaimed options with Bali or Hawaii – but there are several worthy options offering everything from rugged, wild terrain to affordable, family-friendly activities. City RV Rentals has found some of the best beaches the South has to offer. Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Florida Sanibel Island & Captiva provide the perfect vacation spot… 15 Miles of Beaches, 25 Miles of Bike Paths, 50 Kinds of Fish, 230 Kinds of Birds, 250 Kinds of Shells & 0 Traffic Lights. There are numerous activities to partake in, including the beaches, the Sanibel Florida nature preserve: Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge, and many outdoor activities including biking, shelling, fishing, bird watching, boating, golfing, and snorkeling just to name a few. These islands also feature cultural offerings in the area of theatre, arts and live music.

(Sanibel Island, photo courtesy of Sanibel-captiva.org)

Fort Lauderdale, Florida With its makeover from a college student Mecca to a tonier clientele, Fort Lauderdale has been transformed into a beach chic destination. From Lauderdale luxe properties dotting the beachfront skyline to Las Olas Boulevard for casually chic shopping and dining scene, Fort Lauderdale Beach has some of the best people-watching in South Florida. And don't forget to stroll, jog, or blade along the palm tree-fringed, brick-lined beachfront promenade.

(Fort Lauderdale beach wave wall, photo courtesy of sunny.org)

Amelia Island, Florida Located just off the coast of northeast Florida, Amelia Island is easy to reach, but hard to forget. With 13 miles of beautiful beaches, abundant native wildlife, and pristine waters, this barrier island has long been a beloved destination for visitors and residents alike. With 117 holes and seven that play along the Atlantic Ocean - think of it as a 42 million square foot water hazard - the links of Amelia Island offer irresistible play for golfers of every skill level. Fabled names like Pete Dye and Bobby Weed put their architectural design skills to work on Amelia Island’s golf courses. As part of Florida's First Coast of Golf, one of the country's premiere golfing regions, Amelia Island is a true destination for the most discriminating player. Lulled into a state of delightful contentment by the gentle surf, warm Florida sun and salty air, a visitor could almost miss the significance of Amelia Island’s colorful past. It has been a while since cannons roared across this quiet landscape, but there was a time when Amelia was one America’s most sought after (and fought over) pieces of real estate. Crucial for shipping strongholds and global power plays, Amelia was prized as the South's deepest natural harbor – Florida’s passageway to prosperity.

(Marina, photo courtesy of ameliaisland.com)

Marco Island, Florida Marco Island is the largest of Florida's Ten Thousand Islands, located on the Gulf of Mexico in Southwest Florida. It has been described as magical, mystical and alluring. The attraction is tropical sun-washed white sand beaches and a casual easy paced lifestyle. Sunshine, frolicking dolphins, and all of the water and sun sports that go with the beaches are available for your pleasure. The restaurants will delight your taste buds with fresh seafood and their wonderful island creations. Explore the wilderness of the Ten Thousand Islands by land, boat or air. Enjoy superb fishing and abundant wildlife.

(Marco Island, photo courtesy of marcoescapes.com)

Duck, North Carolina The town of Duck, NC, is that quiet, charming northern Outer Banks seaside town many vacationing families have been seeking. With 7 miles of clean beaches, miles of bike path and a walkable village center with shops, restaurants, a soundfront park and activities, and bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Currituck Sound, Duck stretches north from Southern Shores to the Dare County/Currituck County line. Watersports in Duck are big at the beach, whether it’s swimming, surfing, sea kayaking, beach walking or just lazing in the sun by the ocean. On the other side of this narrow island is Currituck Sound — a perfect place to sail, paddle a canoe or kayak, parasail, Jet Ski and windsurf. Several Duck recreational outfitters supply all the goods and gear you need for these sports. And if Duck fishing is what you’re after, welcome to hours of happiness…the fish are biting almost all year. If you’re someone who prefers indoor recreation, you will appreciate Duck’s day spas.

(Duck, photo courtesy of atlanticrealty-nc.com)

Hilton Head, South Carolina Hilton Head Island may only be 12 miles by 5 miles wide, but you’ll find everything you need here for the ultimate Island retreat. Enjoy days basking in the sun, sand and surf of some of the best beaches in the country. Get into the swing of things at your choice of 24 world-class golf courses and 350 tennis courts, embark on a culinary journey at one of over 250 restaurants, or simply walk your way to a new outdoor adventure. A day trip to Savannah or Beaufort, both a 45-minute drive from Hilton Head, can make a perfect getaway to enjoy the neighbors. Cherish every magical moment on Hilton Head Island, from sunrise to sunset and beyond.

(Hilton Head Island, photo courtesy of thecrazycrabl.com)

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Sixty miles of beautiful sandy beaches, first-class live entertainment, exciting attractions for everyone, endless shopping, exquisite dining, thrilling water sports plus so much more -- Myrtle Beach is where you belong. Myrtle Beach is the heart of the Grand Strand, including iconic areas like Ocean Boulevard and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk downtown. It includes many of the area’s favorite things to do, including Broadway at the Beach, the Family Kingdom Amusement Park, Myrtle Waves waterpark, The Carolina Opry and The Market Common.