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The Southeastern coast of the United States has long been a go-to spring break escape from the snow and frigid temperatures of the Midwest and Northern U.S.
There are plenty of top beach destinations, but some stand out for their perfect mix of beautiful shores, fantastic dining, and family-friendly activities.
If you’re planning your spring break vacation and want to enjoy some sun, sand and surf, we’ve pulled together nine of our favorite spring break beach destinations.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Move over Florida beaches. One of the best-kept secrets in the Southeast would be Alabama’s pristine coast of beaches situated along the Gulf Coast. Alabama is a must-visit beach destination in the US.
We’re talking eight miles of surgery crystals of sand that squeak beneath your feet as you find your place to stake your claim near the water’s shores. But there’s more to explore in Alabama, including plenty of history, shopping, and family-centric activities.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks in North Carolina, offers a quieter, more scenic alternative to the typical spring break beach destination. Stretching over 100 miles along the Atlantic, this string of barrier islands is known for its wide, windswept beaches, rolling sand dunes, and historic lighthouses.
Spring temperatures hover in the 60s and 70s, making it a comfortable time to explore without the peak-season crowds.
The off-season atmosphere means you can find more affordable accommodations in beach towns like Nags Head, Duck, and Corolla, while still enjoying fresh seafood and coastal culture. Jockey’s Ridge State Park, home to the East Coast’s largest sand dunes, and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore provide plenty of opportunities for hiking, kite flying, and taking in sweeping ocean views.
Beyond the beach, the Outer Banks is steeped in history and outdoor adventure. The Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills marks the site of the world’s first powered flight, while Roanoke Island remains one of America’s most enduring mysteries—the site of the vanished Lost Colony.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach’s Grand Strand boasts over 60 miles of beaches, a mile-long boardwalk, and endless family-centric activities and water sports. If the public beaches in Myrtle Beach are not your scene, many private ones are located at The Dunes—a stretch of resorts and condos.
If you get tired of the sun and surf, enjoy the rides, dining and nightly activities at Broadway at the Beach.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Tybee Island, a tiny island in Georgia, is a favorite beach spot for tourists and Georgians alike. Tybee Island is a mere 18 miles from Georgia’s historic and charming town of Savannah. Stroll its six miles of beautiful beaches or get up close and personal with dolphins and other sea life on one of the many cruises.
Clearwater Beach, Florida
Voted one of the top beaches in the United States, Clearwater Beach, Florida, offers spectacular sunsets, white-powder sands, and, as its name indicates, crystal-clear waters. Wondering where to stay in Clearwater Beach?
Choose from the most luxurious resorts to family-friendly hotels, and make sure your beach vacation is one to remember.
Anna Maria Island, Florida
Florida’s Anna Maria Island has golden warm sands and endless outdoor activities, from hunting horseshoe crabs to kayaking through Anna Maria Island’s red mangroves.
Dine at one of the many top restaurants on Anna Maria Island, where the freshest seafood is served while taking in magnificent views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Sarasota, Florida
You don’t have to dive deep to find paradise and lots of beautiful shells in Florida. Sarasota’s Siesta Key boasts some of the best beaches and shelling in the world at Florida’s Sanibel and Captiva.
Walk the marble-white sands of this stretch of beach in Sarasota or stroll through the quaint downtown area with casual and upscale dining and shopping galore.
These top beach destinations are just the spot for a memorable spring break vacation. What’s your favorite spring break destination? Let us know in the comments below.
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