Oceanfront vacations: top family resorts on the U.S. east coast

By Iryna BolshakovaMay 8, 2024 10:50 AMResorts
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Family resorts on the east coast of the United States
Family resorts on the east coast of the United States. Source: Image 12019 from Pixabay

The East Coast of the United States is not just a line on a map, but a mosaic of unique resorts, each capable of offering something special for a family vacation. Imagine a place where the morning light gently awakens you and the sound of the surf soothes your soul. Where every day promises new adventures and memories that will warm you for years to come.

From the golden sand beaches of Santa Cruz to the tropical paradise of Maui, from the exhilarating rhythm of Miami to the tranquility of Fort Lauderdale, each resort is a gem full of surprises and joy. In this article, we'll travel to the best family resorts where everyone will find their perfect place in the sun. Load your suitcases, we're off on a trip that will stay in your heart forever!

Santa Monica, California

In the west of Los Angeles County, the state of California cozily welcomes vacationers to Santa Monica. It boasts beaches that stretch for more than 5 kilometers. White sand, pleasant climate and views of the Pacific Ocean make this place ideal for rest and relaxation.

One great family-friendly resort hotel in Santa Monica is the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows. The hotel offers picturesque gardens and understated elegance in rooms, suites and exclusive bungalows, creating a unique atmosphere at this urban resort. If you're looking for accommodation that combines luxury and family-friendly amenities for an East Coast vacation, this could be a great choice.

Santa Monica is not only a cozy resort for families. It's also a true shopaholic's paradise. Here you will find stores of famous brands, restaurants with a variety of cuisine and even a movie theater overlooking the ocean.

And for those who like to relax actively, Santa Monica is a great place. There are dedicated bike paths along the waterfront, and bikes can be rented locally.

Santa Monica is not only a star-studded destination, but also a great place for family fun and entertainment. Don't miss your chance to feel the spirit of Hollywood and enjoy life at one of the best family resorts on the eastern Pacific coast.

Malibu, California

Chic family resorts on the east coast
Chic family resorts on the east coast. Source: Image by MARIE SCHNEIDER from the Pixabay website

With over 40 kilometers along the Atlantic coast, Malibu is a great place to vacation with kids. Here you can enjoy clean sand, fresh air and sporting activities.

Here are a few interesting features of Malibu.

  1. Beaches. Malibu is famous for its expanses stretching along the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Here you can enjoy clean sand, swim in the ocean and admire unforgettable sunsets.
  2. Private homes of celebrities. Malibu has long been home to many Hollywood stars and entertainment executives. They have embraced the neighborhood for its beautiful views and privacy.
  3. Privacy and beauty. Malibu boasts 21 miles of scenic beauty within the city limits. Here you can enjoy nature and tranquility.

If you're looking for a great family resort in Malibu, the Malibu Beach Inn is the place to be! This cozy hotel right on the ocean offers not only the gorgeous sights and sounds of the Pacific Ocean, but also comfortable rooms that will become your home away from home.

Here you can wake up to the sound of the surf, enjoy breakfast overlooking the vast waters, and then head to the beach to build sand castles with the kids.

Malibu is not only a great family resort on the east coast, but also a true slice of the California dream.

San Diego, California

A sunny city with beautiful beaches, parks, and family-friendly activities attracts tourists and locals alike. Here are a few interesting features of this beautiful city:

  1. Beaches and sunshine. San Diego is famous for its beaches. La Jolla Cove is a picturesque beach with crystal clear water and cozy caves. Windansea Beach is a place for surfing, where waves meet with rock formations. And Mission Beach is a paradise for lovers of outdoor activities.
  2. A wealth of parks. Balboa Park is a true treasure trove of culture and nature. Here you'll find the San Diego Zoo, numerous museums, gardens, and even a giant wooden carousel. And Mission Bay Park is the perfect place for picnicking and biking.
  3. Historic Locations. Point Loma offers great ocean views and interesting historic sites. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is a picturesque neighborhood with restaurants, stores and an authentic gold rush atmosphere.
  4. Cultural Locations. Balboa Park is as much about nature as it is about art. Here you'll find art galleries, natural history museums and more.

On the shores of Mission Bay sits one of the great family-friendly resort hotels in San Diego, the Bahia Resort Hotel. Rooms offer free Wi-Fi and cable TV, as well as a kitchenette. For outdoor enthusiasts, a tennis court and a gym are provided. There is also a game room, a gift store and a business center. The Cafe Bahia restaurant serves Southern California cuisine, while the Tangier Lounge bar offers cocktails and light snacks.

If you're looking for something with a homey atmosphere and comfort, San Diego has a lot to offer, as it's one of the best family-friendly resorts on the East Coast.

Miami, Florida

The best beaches on the east coast
The best beaches on the east coast. Source: Image by Linda72 from Pixabay

An elitist resort with the famous South Beach, where you can meet international stars. This city combines luxury, fashion and incredible views. Here are a few interesting features:

If you're looking for a chic, family-friendly resort hotel in Miami, Fontainebleau Miami Beach may be just what your family needs. This renowned hotel combines historic charm with modern comfort and luxury. With its spacious rooms, multiple pools including a children's water park, and a variety of restaurants, every member of the family will find something to enjoy. Plus, the hotel offers a variety of entertainment and activities such as spa services, nightclubs, and shopping, making it the perfect place for a family vacation.

Miami is the East Coast's top family resort. It is where luxury meets diversity, and where the beaches and nightlife will leave an unforgettable experience for every guest.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

This resort city combines all the luxuries of a family vacation. Here are a few of Fort Lauderdale's features:

  1. Beaches. The city is famous for its golden beaches that stretch for miles along the Atlantic Ocean shore.
  2. Waterparks. Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of water parks where you can ride slides, splash in pools and have fun with your family.
  3. Cultural Attractions. The city is steeped in unique culture. You can visit the 1920s artists' museum Bonnet House & Gardens, where creativity and art come alive.

One of the best family-friendly resort hotels in Fort Lauderdale is the Ocean Treasure Beachside Suites. This resort hotel is located right on Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Beach and has received high marks from visitors. Here, you can enjoy direct beach access as well as amenities like in-room kitchenettes and an outdoor pool. It's an ideal place for families who want to combine privacy and comfort with the opportunity to explore local attractions.

Fort Lauderdale is a great place for family vacations and fun adventures on the East Coast.

Key West, Florida

The top family resorts on the east coast
The top family resorts on the east coast. Source: Image by Holger Detje from the Pixabay website

An exotic island with beautiful beaches and the opportunity to observe the underwater world. This is a real paradise for those who dream of exoticism, sun and sea. Here are some interesting features of this amazing place:

  1. Beaches. Key West is 34 kilometers of golden sands along the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. Here you will find unique sunsets and warm waves.
  2. Underwater World. The island is surrounded by crystal clear water, it is a paradise for lovers of diving and snorkeling. Underwater you will find colorful coral reefs, a variety of fish and even sea turtles.
  3. Sunny weather. The climate on the island is about the same as everywhere else on the Florida coast. The temperature is around 30 °C. This is the perfect place for those who want to enjoy the sunshine and warm air.

If you are looking for a popular family-friendly east coast resort hotel in Key West, Casa Marina Key West, A Waldorf Astoria Resort is ideal. This luxury hotel offers a private beach, two ocean pools, and spa services, making it the perfect place for a family vacation. A variety of water sports await, as well as unique culinary experiences at the hotel's local restaurants. With cozy rooms and gorgeous ocean views, this hotel promises an unforgettable vacation for the whole family.

Key West is not only a beautiful island, but also a true slice of paradise for anyone looking for adventure and amazing experiences.

Hawaii

The island in the central part of the Pacific Ocean is famous for its unique beaches. It's golden sand, clear water and of course amazing views. Hawaii is home to active volcanoes. On the island you can see the Kilauea volcano, which spews lava and creates amazing lava fields.

The island, rich in history and culture, offers temples, museums and traditional Hawaiian festivals. And of course, Hawaii is a snorkeling and diving paradise. Coral reefs, a variety of fish and even sea turtles await you underwater.

One of the top family-friendly resort hotels in Hawaii is the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. This luxury resort offers not only gorgeous beaches and views, but also plenty of family fun. With spacious rooms, several pools including one for adults only and one with waterslides for children, and a variety of restaurants, every member of the family will find something to their liking. The hotel also offers a variety of activities such as golf, tennis, and even whale watching excursions that make a vacation here an unforgettable experience.

Hawaii is not only a beautiful island, but also a place where nature, culture, and adventure merge into one unforgettable trip.

Maui, Hawaii

Comfortable family resorts on the east coast
Comfortable family resorts on the east coast. Source: Image by rhodes8043 from the Pixabay website

The second largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, is an adventurer's paradise.

If you're looking for a popular family-friendly east coast resort hotel in Maui, Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort is just what you need. This luxury resort is known for its magnificent gardens, water attractions, and world-class spas.

Families can enjoy spacious accommodations and a variety of activities including golf, tennis and various water sports. For children, there are special clubs and programs that make a vacation here memorable and fun for everyone in the family.

Maui is a wonderful family resort on the east coast. A beautiful island where nature, active entertainment and volcanoes give unforgettable emotions.

Santa Cruz, California

Santa Cruz is a true paradise for lovers of the sea, adventure and relaxation. From the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to Natural Bridges State Beach, there is pure sand and crystal water to enjoy.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the oldest marine amusement park in the United States, awaits you here, where you can ride rides, stroll the promenade and enjoy ocean views.

One of the best family-friendly resort hotels on the East Coast in Santa Cruz is the Dream Inn Santa Cruz. This hotel offers beautiful ocean views and direct access to Santa Cruz Beach. With cozy rooms equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay and a heated pool that is perfect for families, the Dream Inn is a great choice for those looking for a relaxing and enjoyable coastal getaway. The hotel is also located close to the famous Santa Cruz Marina and amusement park, making it ideal for families with children looking to explore local attractions and activities.

Santa Cruz is one of the best places that has everything for a unique family vacation on the East Coast.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Entertainment for everyone at family-friendly east coast resorts
Entertainment for everyone at family-friendly east coast resorts. Source: Image by JUNG HYUN HA from the Pixabay website

The island is famous for its picturesque beaches, numerous golf courses and nature reserves. This destination is ideal for family vacations due to the variety of activities such as biking, water sports, cultural activities and wildlife watching opportunities.

Hilton Head is also known for its upscale restaurants and shopping, as well as the Harbor Town Lighthouse, which is one of the city's symbols.

One of the best family-friendly resort hotels on Hilton Head Island is the Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. This resort offers guests direct beach access, multiple pools, including a zero-entry pool, which is especially great for families with young children.

There is a full spa, tennis courts, and a fitness center. There are special programs and clubs for children, as well as a variety of activities, making a stay here interesting and fun for everyone in the family.

Hilton Head is a top family resort on the East Coast that will provide memorable moments for the whole family.

And so we've come to the end of our journey along the east coast of the United States, full of sunshine, laughter, and endless family vacation options. We've explored amazing resorts, each with their own unique character and charm, and hope you've found your perfect spot for your next family adventure.

Remember, the best memories are created not when we just see new places, but when we share those moments with those we love. So gather your loved ones, plan your next vacation and hit the road. After all, the east coast of the United States is always happy to welcome you and your family, promising new adventures and unforgettable moments of joy. Choose the right resort and enjoy a family vacation on the East Coast, where every sunset is a reminder of the magic that awaits us beyond the horizon.

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