8 of the Best Beach Destinations in the Northeast

While the beaches in tropical locales like Miami, St. Bart’s, and Hawaii are hard to beat, it’s also true that, during the warm-weather months, the temperatures there can be scorching. That’s why summer is the perfect time for beachgoers to explore the milder northern climates. 

A great first stop is the Northeast. With more than 2,000 miles of coastline, the region offers innumerable sea and sand destinations worthy of a visit. From the bustling Jersey Shore to Maine’s idyllic coast, here are eight of the Northeast’s best beaches. 
 

1. Cape May, New Jersey 

This charming resort town sits on New Jersey’s southernmost point. Home to only 3,000 residents, Cape May swells on some summer weekends with as many as 40,000 visitors who come to enjoy its 2.5 miles of unspoiled beaches. 

Despite its popularity, Cape May maintains a relatively low-key vibe. Relax at Cove Beach, a notably quiet stretch of sand, and take some time to tour the nearby Victorian homes that have helped to make part of the town a National Historic Landmark. When hunger strikes, wander over to Cape May’s boardwalk, where many dining options await. 

2. Hampton Beach, New Hampshire 

This New Hampshire state park has been attracting visitors since the 1840s. One of the country’s cleanest beaches, Hampton Beach boasts white sand and picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean. There are also bathrooms, so feel free to stay all day. 

If you need a break from the beach, stroll over to the nearby village, which regularly hosts live events. There’s also a marine life discovery center, a historical society, and a casino packed with entertainment options.  

3. Block Island, Rhode Island 

Taking a ferry to this destination off of mainland Rhode Island gives you access to 17 miles of distinct beaches. Relax under a cabana at Fred Benson Town Beach or snorkel at Surf Beach. Take your kids to the aptly named Baby Beach (so named for its shallow waters and gentle waves) or let your teens socialize with other members of their cohort at Scotch Beach. 

Before leaving, be sure to check out Mohegan Bluffs. These uniquely shaped cliffs stand 200 feet above a secluded beach. Descend down the 141 wooden steps while admiring the spectacular seaside views. 

4. Ocean City, New Jersey 

Ocean City maintains a family-friendly atmosphere that dates back to its 1879 founding as a Christian resort town. Today, “America’s Greatest Family Resort” comprises 8 miles of spacious shoreline. 

Take a dip in the Atlantic waters, and rest assured knowing that there are lifeguards on duty during the summer. For a change of pace, head over to the bustling boardwalk, which along with other dining and entertainment options is home to an amusement park. Adults won’t find any alcohol in Ocean City, as it’s banned here, but for family-friendly fun, the town is a great  to visit. 

5. Narragansett, Rhode Island 

The popular town beach in this Rhode Island community draws as many as 5,000 visitors per day during the summer. While you’ll have to pay for parking during the warm-weather months, doing so gets you access to a mile-long, 20-acre stretch of golden sand. 

Elsewhere in the coastal town, Roger W. Wheeler State Beach, known to locals as Sand Hill Cove, has gentle surf that, along with amenities like hot showers and a playground, makes it a top pick among families. There’s also Matunuck Beach State Park, East Matunuck State Beach, and Scarborough State Beach. What’s more, Narraganset is where travelers can hop on a ferry to Block Island, where even more sandy shorelines await. 

6. Sand Beach, Maine 

Nestled within Acadia National Park is this small, but memorable cove. Owing to its isolated location off of Park Loop Road, Sand Beach maintains a tranquil atmosphere. You can also enjoy stunning views of park landmarks like Thunder Hole. 

Swimmers shouldn’t be surprised that the water is cool here, even in the summer. Those willing to brave the temperatures might find taking a dip energizing, to the point that they’ll be motivated to explore all else that Acadia has to offer. 

7. Coast Guard Beach, Massachusetts 

The surf is calm at this Cape Cod beach, and there are lifeguards on duty throughout the summer. There are also bathrooms and showers. All of this means Coast Guard Beach is a great destination for families.  

Located on the relatively affordable Outer Cape portion of Cape Cod, the Atlantic-facing beach is also popular among surfers and bird watchers. Nearby, the Cape Cod Bay-facing Mayflower Beach is known for its sunsets. Twenty-five miles to the north in Provincetown, Race Point Beach offers a strong surf along with luxurious sand.  

8. Madison, Connecticut 

Hammonasset State Beach Park accounts for the majority of the more than 2 miles of shoreline in this Connecticut town. The park’s beach, the largest in Connecticut, is a pristine sandy respite lined by a boardwalk. 

Elsewhere, the Surf Club, East Wharf, and West Wharf are beaches largely reserved for Madison residents, although travelers may be able to find parking on non-weekend days. If you stay nearby at Hammonasset’s more than 500 campsites, you’ll have multiple days to try to get access. Alternatively, simply stick with a beach in Hammonasset that, at 2 miles long, has plenty to explore.