9 Best U.S. Beach Destinations for Grandkids

grandpa at beach

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If you’re looking for some of the best beach destinations for grandkids to take this summer then we got you covered here!

There are many amazing beaches worth exploring along the U.S. coastline.

From the sandy shores of Florida to the rugged coastlines of California.

So read on along!

Overview:

Caladesi Island State Park, Florida

caladesi island florida beach destinations for grandkids
Photo by m-kojot

On Florida’s Gulf of Mexico coast, there is a hidden gem called Caladesi Island State Park.

It’s an ideal vacation spot for spending quality time with the kids and grandkids.

Families can enjoy a range of activities from swimming, snorkeling, bird watching, kayaking, and canoeing.

This island has a pretty flat coastline of a 3-mile stretch of white sand perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

There are no facilities here worth mentioning.

Caladesi Island State Park can only be accessed by boat.

From Honeymoon Island State Park, visitors can purchase a ticket to access this place.

Things to see:

Wildlife

You can spot plenty of species while exploring its lush landscape, such as egrets, brown pelicans, ospreys, turtles, and dolphins in the waters surrounding it.

The island is also home to several species of migratory birds that come here every year.

A variety of tropical fish can be found in the pristine waters teeming with life.

Honeymoon Island State Park

Our Verdict:

For those looking to spend time in tranquility and bask in the wonders of nature then you can’t go wrong visiting Caladesi Island State Park.

The location offers the perfect opportunity for a calming and peaceful escape.

Santa Monica Beach, California

santa-monica-beach

Santa Monica Beach makes our list of best beach destinations for grandkids worth checking out.

You’ll find plenty to do here from golden sands to many different restaurants and shops worth checking out.

It’s a great spot for soaking up the sun and biking along its miles of shoreline paths.

There is an amusement park on the pier here.

Offering plenty of games as well as a Ferris wheel for those who are visiting with children.

In addition, this beach has restrooms, picnic tables, and even a playground making it an ideal family-friendly beach worth visiting.

Things to See:

The Pier:  

Santa Monica Pier is an iconic part of the Los Angeles coastline known for its lively atmosphere and stunning views.

It is one of the most popular tourist spots in California that offers plenty of activities for grandkids.

Such as roller coasters, arcades, restaurants, and shops to explore.

Muscle Beach:

Muscle Beach in Santa Monica is renowned for its rich fitness and entertainment culture, as it has been a world-famous destination for bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts since the 1930s.

It is also home to the original Muscle Beach outdoor gym, which was created in 1933 to provide a place for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together and train in the open air.

This iconic beach is now famous for its constant presence of professional athletes and celebrities who come here.

Tongva and Palisades Parks:

Tongva and Palisades Parks in Santa Monica are well-known for their stunning natural beauty, offering a wide range of outdoor activities such as running, biking, fishing and even picnicking.

Both parks offer a variety of trails that provide spectacular views along the way.

The lush landscape of Tongva Park is perfect for strolling and relaxing while Palisades Park is known for its breathtakingly beautiful ocean views.

Both parks are also home to unique plant and animal life.

Our Verdict

A trip to Santa Monica Beach in California is sure to be a memorable one with grandkids.

With plenty to do and see you’ll definitely want to make the most out of your time.

There are plenty of activities to do with your grandkids at Santa Monica Beach.

La Jolla Shores Park, California

la jolla cove san diego beach destinations for grandkids

La Jolla Shores is an excellent choice for a beach vacation with the grandkids.

This makes our list of top beach destinations for grandkids due to its stunningly beautiful scenery, and it’s just perfect for building sand castles or swimming in crystal-clear waters.

You can also enjoy some fun activities, such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling.

Plus, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from for lunch or dinner near the beach.

Things to See:

Children’s Pool at The Shores:

One of the most cherished attractions is the Children’s Pool.

Known as a well-secured cove designed for kids to swim and play in its shallow waters.

There are sometimes sea lions here so be mindful of the marine life.

You can spot many kids snorkeling and playing in the sand here.

The Underwater Park:  

The La Jolla Underwater Park is a unique, state-protected marine preserve located off the coast of La Jolla, California.

It’s home to an array of sea life and is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.

The park offers breathtaking views of the ocean floor and its myriad of colorful sea creatures.

It’s also a great place to explore shipwrecks from centuries past and observe diverse marine ecosystems up close.

Sea Cave Tours by Kayaks:

Sea Cave Tours by Kayaks in La Jolla is an exciting adventure activity perfect for small groups or individuals.

It offers a unique opportunity to explore the pristine waters of La Jolla Cove while paddling through the majestic sea caves.

With knowledgeable guides, participants can enjoy thrilling views and take pictures of the breathtaking sights, as well as learn interesting facts about the local marine life and history of this beautiful area.

Discover the local marine life and sea caves by touring the blissful tunnels of the La Jolla Sea Cave on kayaks.

Our Verdict

La Jolla Shores is a great beach destination for grandkids and grandparents.

With its beautiful sandy beaches, warm weather, and plenty of fun activities, La Jolla Shores is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation.

From snorkeling and kayaking to beach-side dining and shopping, there are plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained while Grandparents can relax in the picturesque surroundings.

Santa Cruz Beach, California

santa cruz boardwalk beach destinations for grandkids

Visiting Santa Cruz in California is an ideal getaway for your grandkids, offering a plethora of fun and memorable experiences.

With its many attractions like the world-famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Mystery Spot, you can be sure that your grandkids will have a great time.

In addition to all the entertainment options, there are also many educational opportunities to explore while visiting Santa Cruz such as its redwood forest, wildlife refuges, and historic sites.

Things to See:

Santa Cruz Boardwalk

The Santa Cruz Boardwalk is a popular and iconic amusement park that has been operating since 1907.

It features a wide variety of attractions, including roller coasters, arcades, carnival games, and even a historic wooden roller coaster.

The iconic beachfront setting allows visitors to enjoy the sun and sights of the beautiful Monterey Bay while enjoying fun rides and attractions.

The Santa Cruz Boardwalk makes our list of best beach destinations for grandkids.

Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

If you are looking to provide your grandchildren with a fun and educational experience, then taking them to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum would be an excellent option.

With its extensive collection of surfing artifacts, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits, your grandkids will be sure to have an unforgettable time learning about the history and culture of surfing.

Our Verdict

If you are looking for a fun and exciting trip for you and your grandkids, taking them to Santa Cruz Beach in California is definitely worth considering.

This iconic Californian beach offers tons of ways to have fun with the kids, from swimming in the Pacific Ocean to playing on the beach or exploring nearby attractions such as boardwalks and amusement parks.

Plus, it’s a perfect spot to take lots of memorable photos!

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach Best Beaches in Hilton Head SC

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is an ideal destination for families with grandkids.

With its wide variety of attractions, plenty of beautiful beaches, and a great selection of restaurants, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The town also offers a plethora of activities for kids such as amusement parks, mini-golf courses, and waterparks.

It is the perfect place for grandparents to take their grandchildren on a fun-filled vacation that everyone can enjoy!

Things to See:

Promenade and Boardwalk

The Promenade and Boardwalk in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is a 2.5-mile-long oceanfront boardwalk that runs along the beach, providing visitors with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

It includes a variety of attractions such as arcades, restaurants, shops, and hotels as well as plenty of other entertainment options.

The Promenade and Boardwalk is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening while in Myrtle Beach!

Coastal Activities

There is plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and playing games on the beach itself because it is large and sandy.

Typically, warm, and transparent, the water is ideal for swimming and other beach activities.

Stand-up paddle boarding is just one of the many water sports available at the beach.

Brookgreen Gardens

Brookgreen Gardens is an incredible 9,100-acre botanical garden and wildlife preserve located in the coastal town of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Established in 1931 by Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington, Brookgreen Gardens hosts a variety of beautiful sculptures, lush gardens, and breathtaking landscapes.

With its rich history and stunning beauty, Brookgreen Gardens is one of the most visited attractions in Myrtle Beach and provides a wonderful experience for all who visit.

Our Verdict

If you’re looking for an exciting and fun-filled vacation spot, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is an excellent choice to take your grandchildren.

With its white sandy beaches, amusement parks, and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Kids will love the variety of attractions such as the aquariums and water parks, while adults can appreciate the assortment of restaurants, shopping centers, and golf courses.

And for all ages, there are plenty of activities in the area like fishing charters, cruises, and more – making it to our list of great beach destinations for grandkids.

Clearwater Beach, Florida

clearwater-sand-view

Florida’s Clearwater Beach is a well-liked vacation spot recognized for its crystal-clear waters, fine sand beaches, and

range of activities.

Grandparents seeking a memorable vacation with their grandchildren should consider going there.

Wide and sandy, the beach itself provides lots of space for activities like swimming, sunbathing, and playing games.

Swimming and other beach activities are ideal due to the water’s typical warmth and clarity.

Things to See:

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a world-renowned marine life rescue and rehabilitation center located on the beautiful coast of Clearwater, Florida.

It is a non-profit organization and public aquarium that provides incredible insight into the lives of marine animals and how they interact with their environment.

The staff at Clearwater Marine Aquarium are dedicated to providing excellent care for rescued animals, as well as providing educational opportunities for visitors to learn more about ocean life, conservation efforts, and sustainable practices.

Pier 60

Pier 60 is a popular public fishing pier located at Clearwater Beach in Florida.

This renowned landmark offers breathtaking views, a variety of activities, and entertainment, such as nightly sunset cinema screenings, free arts and crafts events, and live music performances.

It’s the perfect spot to take in the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast while enjoying a day out with the grandkids making it one of our favorite beach destinations for grandkids.

Dolphin Watching Tours

Dolphin Watching Tours in Clearwater Beach, Florida are one of the most popular tourist activities in the area.

These guided tours take visitors out into the shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico, where they can get up close and personal with some of the most majestic creatures on earth.

Perfect for taking the grandkids and enjoying the wildlife.

Our Verdict

Clearwater Beach, Florida is a great destination to take your grandchildren and create unforgettable memories together!

The warm weather and sparkling beaches provide plenty of opportunities for fun activities such as swimming, building sandcastles, collecting shells, and exploring the boardwalk.

Furthermore, there are also many attractions like a dolphin-watching cruise and an aquarium that offer educational experiences.

Nauset Beach, Massachusetts

Nauset Beach destinations for grandkids

Nauset Beach in Cap Cod, Massachusetts makes our list of best beach destinations for grandkids to visit due to its long and winding stretches of sand with views of the Atlantic Ocean.

With its white sand beaches and clear blue waters, it is the perfect place for a family vacation.

There are plenty of activities such as swimming, kayaking, fishing, picnicking, and more that you can enjoy together.

The beach is also well maintained with lots of amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and accessible boardwalks which makes it even more attractive for your grandchildren to visit.

Additionally, there are plenty of lodging options nearby offering comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices so you can make sure that your trip is a success

Things to See:

National Seashore of Cape Cod:

The Cape Cod National Seashore is an ideal destination for children to visit, offering a wealth of activities and sights that they can enjoy.

With plenty of beaches, trails, and educational opportunities, kids can explore the natural beauty of this area while learning about the history and culture of the region.

Along with its numerous attractions, the park also offers plenty of fun activities for children including swimming, fishing, kayaking, bird watching, and much more.

Cap Cod Maritime Museum

The Cap Cod Maritime Museum is an excellent place for kids of all ages to explore and learn fascinating facts about maritime history.

Children can explore the collections of ships, model boats, and artifacts from around the world, as well as participate in interactive programs and activities designed to engage and educate children.

With its kid-friendly exhibits, captivating displays, and wonderful staff, it’s no wonder why this museum is a great way to spend a family day out!

Heritage Museums and Gardens

The Heritage Museums and Gardens is an amazing family-friendly destination that is perfect for taking kids.

It features acres of lush gardens, a variety of interactive exhibits, and educational programs that are sure to keep the little ones engaged and entertained.

There are also fun activities for all ages which makes it an ideal spot for a great day out with the whole family.

Our Verdict

Cap Cod is a great place to visit with grandkids for a beach vacation.

With its stunning scenery, charming towns, and many activities like whale watching, fishing, and hiking, your family will be sure to have a memorable time.

Plus, the nightlife is booming with things to see and do, making it a perfect place for a weekend getaway.

Orange Beach, Alabama

orange beach alabama

Orange Beach, Alabama makes our list of best beach destinations for grandkids worth visiting due to its many amenities.

With many activities like fishing, kayaking, and swimming in the Gulf of Mexico as well as restaurants, shopping centers, and museums nearby, there are plenty of options to keep them entertained.

The beautiful white sandy beaches and warm temperatures make it an ideal destination when looking to escape the cold winter months.

Things to See:

Gulf Coast Aerospace Museum

The Gulf Coast Aerospace Museum is a great experience for children of all ages, providing engaging activities and interactive exhibits that make the museum an ideal destination for a fun family outing.

It features interactive displays, hands-on activities, and educational materials that will help kids learn more about the history of aviation and aerospace engineering.

Additionally, there are plenty of activities for adults as well to enjoy such as flight simulators and virtual reality experiences.

Gulf State Park

Taking your family to Gulf State Park in Orange Beach can be an excellent way to spend some quality time together.

The park features a wide variety of recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, camping, and hiking.

Kids of all ages will find something they enjoy doing at the park, whether it’s spending the day at the beach or exploring the trails.

Plus, there are plenty of educational opportunities available as well.

So if you’re looking for an affordable and fun way to bond with your family while learning new things about nature and wildlife, Gulf State Park is definitely worth considering!

Our Verdict

Orange Beach Alabama is a great vacation destination for families with kids, offering plenty of fun activities to keep them entertained.

The city is home to some of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast, numerous outdoor attractions and parks, and plenty of exciting water sports.

Additionally, there are several kid-friendly restaurants and shops located in the area that offer an entertaining atmosphere.

Popham Beach, Maine

popham beach destinations for grandkids

Popham Beach, located in the picturesque state of Maine makes our list of best beach destinations for grandkids and grandparents looking for an enjoyable and peaceful getaway.

Famous for its long stretch of white sand and crystal clear blue waters, Popham Beach is ideal for swimming, boating, and beachcombing.

With plenty of nearby attractions such as historic lighthouses, magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean, and a variety of local restaurants offering delicious seafood dishes, Popham Beach makes for an unforgettable vacation experience.

Things to See:

Popham State Park

If you are looking for a great outdoor experience, Popham State Park, located in the beautiful state of Maine, is an excellent choice to take your grandkids.

With its hiking trails, beach access, and other attractions like a playground and picnicking areas, it is sure to provide plenty of fun and entertainment.

Furthermore, the park offers numerous educational programs and events.

Fort Popham State Historic Site

If you are looking for a fun and educational trip to take with your grandchild, the Fort Popham State Historic Site is a great option.

It is an archaeological site with a rich history, including artifacts from the Civil War era.

You and your grandchild can explore this historic site, learning about its history while also enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Plus, it’s a great opportunity to create lasting memories together!

Our Verdict

Popham Beach, in the state of Maine, is an absolutely perfect destination to take your grandchildren if you are looking for a nice getaway.

It offers stunning views of the ocean and plenty of activities such as swimming in the ocean, building sandcastles, collecting seashells, and more!

The beach is also well-maintained with lifeguards on duty during peak hours and plenty of amenities to make your trip comfortable.

F.A.Q.s

waikiki hawaii guide for families

Where is the best tropical place to take kids?

One of the best tropical places to take kids is Hawaii.

There are so many beaches to explore here.

We highly recommend 15 Best Beaches in Hawaii for Families: Perfect Vacation Spots!

With its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and rich culture, Hawaii offers something for everyone in the family.

Kids will love swimming in the warm waters, exploring the volcanoes, and learning about Hawaiian culture.

There are also plenty of fun activities like zip-lining, surfing, and horseback riding to keep everyone busy during their stay.

where is a good place to travel with a toddler?

grandkids with grandparents

If you are looking to travel with your toddler, there are plenty of destinations that you can consider.

Many families prefer beach or mountain resorts, as they offer plenty of outdoor activities and space for the little ones to run around and explore safely.

Theme parks also provide a great source of entertainment for toddlers, but it’s important to keep in mind the long lines and possible exhaustion that come with them.

which part of Florida is most kid-friendly?

kid at zoo

When it comes to choosing the most kid-friendly part of Florida, there are several different areas to consider.

For families with young children, Central Florida is a great option with its multiple theme parks and attractions.

The Tampa Bay Area also offers numerous family-friendly activities such as beaches, amusement parks, and zoos.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, then South Florida may be the right choice with its many beaches, state parks, and recreational opportunities.

which place is best for travel with family?

san diego beach overview

When it comes to choosing a destination for traveling with family, the possibilities are nearly endless.

However, some of the best places to consider include cities known for their family-friendly attractions, beaches, and activities such as Orlando, Florida; and San Diego, California to name a few.

These places all offer something for everyone in the family to enjoy with plenty of attractions, beaches, and activities that appeal to adults and children alike.

Conclusion

grandkids at the beach

With so many stunning beach destinations around the world, it can be difficult to choose the perfect place for a memorable vacation with your grandkids.

Fortunately, we have narrowed down the choice to 10 of the best beach destinations that you can’t go wrong with.

Whether you’re looking for crystal clear waters and white sand beaches or vibrant cities and nightlife, there is something for everyone on this list of spectacular beach getaways!

Let us know in the comments below what are some of your favorite beach destinations for grandkids that you’ve taken in the U.S.

Until next time, safe travels!

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Jess & Jeanette

Jess and Jeanette, two sisters who founded Unseen Beaches, were inspired by their family’s beach vacations while growing up.

Their passion lies in guiding you toward the most remarkable beach destinations across the U.S., while also protecting and preserving these beautiful coastal treasures! 🌊❤️

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