We just finished another good ‘ol Texas ice storm so it has me wishing for all the beach days. Normally, I’m not one to just lay on the beach, BUT I do enjoy a day or two of it. Below are some of the very best USA beach trips to take during the cold winter months. Grab your swimsuit, sunscreen, and shades, and head to the beach!
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Best Beach Trips in South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, SC
This city in South Carolina has a 60-mile stretch of beaches known as the Grand Strand. Along this stretch, you will find seaside restaurants and the Family Kingdom Amusement Park, home to the tallest Ferris wheel in the US: the Skywheel. If you want to visit a more secluded area and see animals, the Myrtle Beach State Park has a variety of wildlife, including endangered sea turtles that nest there. You can also rent jet skis, ride a 4-D ride, or catch a show at Broadway Theater!
It’s important to note that South Carolina isn’t the warmest location on this list, but it beats the northern states. Winter highs usually hover right around 60 degrees, so you may not be able to swim and lay out on the beach, but it’s great weather for exploring!
There are many hotels to choose from right on the beach which makes for easy access to all Myrtle Beach has to offer. You may not even need to rent a car!
Keep Reading: How to spend ONE WEEKEND in Myrtle Beach!
Best Beach Trips in Alabama
Orange Beach, AL
I know I know… Alabama isn’t on the top of your list when thinking about taking a beach vacay. BUT, Orange Beach is a gem in the southeast! There are many hotels to choose from right on the beach so you’ll have a front-row show of the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
There’s also no shortage of things to do along the beach. In addition to the fun beachside restaurants, you’ll find dolphin tours, sailboat rides, jet skis, and some hiking at The Gulf State Park. After enjoying some beach time, be sure to make a road trip up to North Alabama for some epic waterfalls and unique stops!
Tip! Save money by using a multi-attraction Combo pass!
Best Beach Trips in Florida
Miami Beach- Miami, FL
It is no secret that Miami is one of the most attractive cities in Florida, and being at the southern point of Florida, it’s summer here all year round. Between the miles of coastline, happening nightlife, hundreds of restaurants, and an endless amount of activities, it’s hard to ever be bored in the city.
Whether you enjoy swimming, relaxing, tanning or a mixture of the 3, Miami Beach and South Beach are 2 great spots to spend your beach trip.
Find the best hotels near Miami Beach!
Siesta Key- Sarasota, FL
Did you know you can escape to white sand beaches without leaving the United States?! With beaches around every turn, live music, tropical drinks, and charming streets and shops, Sarasota, FL is a true gem for anyone looking for a relaxing beach vacation!
After stepping onto the sparkling white sand and viewing the turquoise water, it will be no surprise that Siesta Key Beach is always voted the number 1 beach in the USA. With its beauty also comes crowds. There is a large free parking lot, but it oftentimes fills up early in the day. Near the main beach parking lot you will find bathrooms and concession stands!
Tip: If arriving later, there is paid parking in the Siesta Key Village. We arrived in the early afternoon and did not have any probably finding a spot in the Village. We then took a short stroll to the beach.
Keep Reading: More Things to do in Sarasota, FL
Daytona Beach, FL
Daytona Beach is a great place to visit if you love auto racing and sunshine. The city holds the Daytona 500 and numerous other racing events on its notorious raceway and makes for one of the best road trips in Miami and Southern Florida. If you visit the beach during the winter, you’ll enjoy the boardwalk filled with shops, bars, seafood restaurants, and a Ferris wheel with a view of the city and ocean. Daytona Beach’s moderate size makes it perfect for a short trip filled with fun and warmth.
Keep Reading: The BEST things to do near Orlando (Beyond Disney World)
Best Beaches in California
Rosie’s Dog Beach, CA
What could be better than a dog-friendly beach?! Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach, CA, is a quaint spot where dogs and their owners come to have fun in the sand. You will find plenty of furry friends to give you that serotonin boost you deserve after working so hard.
It’s located in between Long Beach and Huntington beach, so there are other spots to check out before or after your doggy adventure.
Best Beach Trips in Hawaii
Maui, HI
January and February are the best months to take some time off work for an extended weekend and visit Maui. Flights are significantly cheaper since peak tourist season is months away.
Besides the fact that Maui is a hiker’s absolute dream, the temperatures are normally above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for the time spent near the water. There are 80 beaches (yes 80!) on Maui with a variety of landscapes.
One of my favorites was the charcoal beach of Waiʻānapanapa Black Sand Beach. The waves here were pretty dangerous, so swimming isn’t always recommended. It is located along the epic Road To Hana and you do need a reservation before visiting. You can also check out Kaihalulu Beach and take pictures of the red sands at sunset Big and Little Beach for a swim.
Tip! If driving the Road To Hana, I highly recommend purchasing the Gypsy Guide Audio Tour. SO easy to use, informative, and entertaning during your drive. This will ensure you do not miss ANY of the best stops.
Kailua Beach- Oahu, HI
Kailua is the perfect beach trip in the USA! With its sandy beaches, beautiful weather, and abundance of activities, there is always something to do in this small beach town. Although there are no hotels in Kailua itself, it’s only 19 miles from Honolulu where there are ample options.
While hanging out in this beach town, you can simply relax and take in the turquoise-colored water, or you be more adventurous and rent a kayak or snorkel gear. There are also many fun and beachy restaurants nearby as well as some epic hikes to check out!
Beaches are a fun place to be and a great change of scenery from the winter landscape. A good beach trip will recharge you and give you a good memory of some well-earned time off at, oftentimes, an affordable price. What other USA beach trips would you add to this list? Come let me know on Instagram and follow along for more USA gems!
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