East Coast Beaches (New Jersey to Virginia)

Finally, at long last, summer is on its way! It has been a terribly long winter full of snow and gusty winds. I think it is safe to say we could all use some sunshine. Now, with the summer coming at us full force, it is time to think about the beach.

If you live in the mid-eastern states in the U.S., you are lucky. We have plenty of beaches to go to on a hot summer day. Some beaches are so close, you do not even need to get a motel. You can just go on a day trip. If you do not live along the Atlantic Ocean, don't worry! You are invited, too. You will have to think about the whole motel situation though. Trust me, it will be worth it.

So let's sit back and relax! Why not go on a beach adventure right now? Even if we are only reading about all the beaches, it is just like being there but without all that pesky sand between your toes! When you get some free time, you can take a drive and be there in person.

The most popular beach in Maryland has to be Ocean City. Ocean City has a spectacular boardwalk. There are plenty of those cheesy boardwalk shops and fun things to do all along the boardwalk. Ocean City has arcades, mini-golf, plenty of restaurants, and an amusement park. For the night life, there are plenty of bars and clubs. There is something for everyone at Ocean City.

Of course, the most important part of Ocean City is the beach. Ocean City has a 10 mile long beach. The beach is really clean, especially considering some other beaches along the eastern shore. On the weekends, the beach is packed all summer long. It is a blast to be in the crowds when the beach is swarming. You can always get in the ocean or just lay in the sun.

You do not have to pay to hit the beach, but if you are planning a day trip, you can expect to pay for parking. While driving to Ocean City, make sure to pack some great music to keep you going. The drive getting there can be a little dull; there are fields as far as the eye can see. If watching the crops is not your thing, make sure your radio is working!

Right below Ocean City is a beautiful park called Assateague Island. This is the best place to go if you are looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. The beach is clean and a lot less populated. The best part of Assateague Island is the wildlife. You are likely to see deer, rabbits, and horses.

Yes, Assateague Island is full of wild horses. Sometimes the horses are shy and you will only see them from a distance. You might get to see some come pretty close to your car. If you are lucky, they may just show up on the beach! It is an amazing sight sitting on a beach and looking over to find a group of horses coming towards you. Always remember, do not feed the horses! They are not there as a tourist attraction. The horses are wild animals and can be dangerous.

If you are looking for a cute, quirky beach town, it is time to visit Rehoboth Beach. It has a smaller beach compared to Ocean City, but it is really fun. Rehoboth Beach is family friendly and also a gay friendly beach. I would consider Rehoboth Beach a welcoming place to everyone. It has plenty of quirky little shops and motels that were once houses.

Rehoboth Beach also has all the standard beach amenities like large hotels and an amusement park. It is never as crowded as Ocean City. The view is beautiful, and the town is clean and well kept. It is a wonderful beach to visit.

Rehoboth Beach also has neighboring beach towns you can visit: Dewey Beach and Bethany Beach. You can easily hop in the car and visit those towns while visiting. You may even decide to stay at one of those beaches the next time you visit Delaware.

What beach hub would be complete without a blurb about Atlantic City? Atlantic City is probably best known as a gambling town. However, you can't look past the beach. The beach seems to go on forever at Atlantic City. There are even 3 spots that are designated for surfing.

Atlantic City also has a long boardwalk with all the standard amusements like shops, rides, restaurants, and a Ripley's Believe It or Not. Of course, you can't miss the casinos. Even if you are not going to gamble, make sure to visit some of the casinos. Each casino has its own theme. Some of the casinos are really beautiful. There are always restaurants, clubs, and shows to keep you amused at the casinos even if you do not want to gamble.

You can also visit the the Pier Shops at Caesar's. Aside from great shopping, there is a light show to keep you entertained. You can relax, and watch the water and lights once an hour. There really is something for everyone in Atlantic City. If you have the opportunity to go on a bus trip deal, by all means do it.

Last, but never least, is Virginia Beach in Virginia. Virginia Beach is located at the very south in Virginia, so anyone living in the southern part of the U.S. can get to this beach town easily. Anyone living in the north or even the middle of the east coast, has a long drive. However, it is fully worth it.

Virginia Beach is beautiful! The main street is lined with hotels that all face the ocean. Virginia Beach has a huge beach which is usually packed on the weekends. It is a great getaway spot. There is golf, an amusement park, tour boats, trolleys, and a ton of other activities. You can walk along the boardwalk and investigate all the stores, "haunted houses," and arcades. There is always something to do in Virginia Beach, even if it rains. I highly recommend visiting this beach!

You can always visit Williamsburg while you are there, which is not too far away. If you are into history, or visiting Busch Gardens, that is the place for you.

Copyright ©2011 Jeannieinabottle

Originally created in 2011; Updated in June 2012