The Outer Banks are permeated with history: Orville and Wilbur Wright made their illustrious maiden flights in this area (at Kill Devil Hills), Blackbeard fought his last fight (at Ocracoke), and the enigmatic Lost Colony vanished (precise location unknown; last seen on Roanoke Island close to Manteo). However, the OBX group of barrier islands, which are situated off the coast of North Carolina, isn't just for history aficionados. Along with fishing, windsurfing, and wildlife viewing, these activities draw the most daring. The Outer Banks gained the moniker "the graveyard of the Atlantic" due to its estimated 3,000 shipwrecks, which can be explored by snorkeling or scuba diving, that is one of the Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S. The beaches, mini-golf courses, and North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island are popular with families.

Old lighthouses, rocky dunes, and isolated beaches in the south combine with vacation homes, water sports, and kitschy beach stores in the north to create a distinctive coastal destination. Each community has its own appeal. For those who want to bypass excessively developed tourist destinations and go straight to pristine beaches, the OBX is great. There isn't a lot of nightlife, but there is a ton of beauty in nature. Beaches are busier in the summer, but with so many places to visit dispersed along the barrier islands, you probably won't encounter overwhelming crowds at any time of year.

The Outer Banks are best visited between March and May or September and November when lodging costs are lower and crowds thin out. Summertime brings the majority of visitors and inhabitants from the mainland of North Carolina, when humidity levels are high and daily averages regularly reach the upper 80s. The temperature drops into the 40s and 50s throughout the winter. Just be aware that some sights, restaurants, and shops can close during the offseason or operate with fewer hours.

Many vacationing families that rent homes go to the neighborhood supermarkets and fish markets and prepare the majority of their meals there (the Dockside N' Duck is an excellent starting point). When you do venture out, you'll discover that the Outer Banks are known for its fresh seafood with a southern flavor. Most businesses, including Blue Moon Beach Grill in Nags Head and I Got Your Crabs Seafood Market & Steam Bar in Kitty Hawk, are independent and locally owned. The barrier islands also include more fast-casual eateries, all of which are often inexpensive. For a quick yet delicious lunch, consider places like Bros Sandwich Shack on Hatteras Island or Eduardo's in Ocracoke.

Location: off the coast of North Carolina and southeastern Virginia, on the east coast of the United States.

Ranking:

• #1 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #2 in Best Places to Visit in August
• #4 in Best Cheap Family Vacations
• #4 in Best Places to Visit in the Carolinas
• #4 in Best Family Summer Vacations
• #6 in Best Cheap Spring Break Destinations
• #7 in Best Cheap Honeymoons in the U.S.
• #9 in Best Beaches in the U.S.
• #10 in Best Family Vacations in the USA
• #11 in Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• #12 in Best Summer Vacations in the USA
• #28 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
  

Destin, often known as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," has developed into one of the most well-liked tourist destinations on the Florida Panhandle. Prior to a bridge connecting the narrow peninsula with Florida's mainland, Destin, which was founded in the 1850s, was a peaceful fishing village. This community maintains a small-town feel despite its baseline population of 13,000 (which rises to 25,000+ during the summer). Every year, families from the Midwest and the South travel to Destin's beaches to enjoy the region's famed bright white shoreline, which is constructed entirely of Appalachian quartz. In addition to keeping cool in the summer heat, this special sand gives the water an emerald hue by reflecting sunlight. Golfers navigate bunkers along the coast as children play around at water parks. More daring tourists can go snorkeling and scuba diving near the coast or rent a boat to go deep sea fishing. After all, casting a line is an essential component of this paradise on the peninsula.

Destin is at its best between April and May when the weather is pleasant, the sun is out, and the water is warm (expect highs in the mid-70s and 80s). Any earlier and the temperature will be cooler and the water will be chilly. Summer vacation will place you in the thick of the crowds and at the highest cost. Even though you might think about going in the late summer or early fall, those times might be extremely hot and rainy. Summer highs are often in the high 80s, while winter temperatures range from the low 40s to the 60s. When prices are lower in the winter, some tourists do go, but they lose out on the best things to do in the region.

What about "gulf-to-table" restaurants? You've probably seen restaurants described or categorized as "farm-to-table." It shouldn't be a surprise that the mainstay of the city's culinary culture is Florida's marine life in a place dubbed the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village." In fact, there are 20 different varieties of fish available at any given moment. But Destin also has you covered if you prefer land mammals and vegetables to aquatic life.

Location: Northwest Florida (Florida Panhandle), east of Pensacola but west of Panama City.

Ranking:

• #2 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #3 in Best Beaches in the U.S.
• #5 in Best Places to Visit in July
• #6 in Best Florida Beaches
• #7 in Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• #9 in Best Places to Visit in Florida
• #9 in Best Family Vacations in the USA
• #10 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S.
  

This remote Fort Myers outpost is thought to be even more laid-back, serene, and charming than its Gulf Coast neighbor, which is saying a lot. On Sanibel Island, casual is the norm; a shabby-chic atmosphere permeates the Periwinkle Way galleries, restaurants, and boutiques; and seashells cover every bit of sand and linoleum. That is one of the best family beach vacations in the U.S. In fact, this island's (and its smaller sister, Captiva) claim to fame is its profusion of seashells. Any long stretch of sand will have a large number of beachgoers practicing the "Sanibel Stoop," as the locals refer it shelling. If the mood strikes you, aim to join them for at least one afternoon during your visit. Sanibel's relaxed people wouldn't have it any other way.

The peak season, from December to April, is the ideal time to explore Sanibel Island. Travel costs will be higher during these five months than during other seasons, so make your plans and reservations early. Still, this is the time of year for picture-perfect beach weather. Get a good price on a motel and go shelling in the cool Gulf of Mexico in late October. Avoid traveling during hurricane season entirely; instead, schedule your trip for May or early June, when there is less risk of severe weather.

Enjoy some fresh seafood while you're visiting Sanibel. Shrimp, stone crab, grouper, and snapper are dishes that are worth seeking out. The top eateries on the island, including Traders Cafe, George & Wendy's Sanibel Seafood Grille, and The Island Cow, can be found on Periwinkle Way. Along this street, you can find a number of ice cream shops, such as Sanibel's Best Homemade Ice Cream, Joey's Custard, and Love Boat Ice Cream. Visit the nearby farmers' market, which is open every Sunday from October to May, for more locally produced food. Fresh produce, fish, pasta, cheese, and other goods are sold by vendors.

Location: off the coast of southwest Florida, just west of Fort Myers, Florida.

Ranking:

• #3 in Best Relaxing Getaways in the USA
• #3 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #4 in Best Beaches in the U.S.
• #5 in Best Cheap Romantic Getaways
• #7 in Best Places to Visit in Florida
• #7 in Best Cheap Family Vacations
  

Maui is not quite as big as the Big Island, Lanai is not nearly as small, Oahu is not nearly as busy, and Kauai is not nearly as quiet. For many visitors to Hawaii, Maui is the ideal destination since it gives them a taste of almost everything the Aloha State has to offer, from amazing wildlife to fascinating history and culture. You may shimmy with professional hula dancers here, play golf on coastal fairways, zip line into the air, snorkel with five distinct species of sea turtles, or just relax on some of Hawaii's most famous beaches.

Maui, one of the most visited destinations in the archipelago, is situated between the Big Island and the considerably smaller Molokai (which you can explore by signing up for one of the best Maui tours). The island of Maui is separated into five main zones. Many visitors establish themselves on the West or South Maui coasts, which are home to Kaanapali Beach and the Old Lahaina Luau, respectively, and the renowned Wailea Beach. But it's important to visit the rest of the island as well. Explore Haleakala, the biggest dormant volcano in the world, in the Upcountry, as well as the former tribal battlegrounds of Central Maui's Iao Valley State Park as you travel along the Road to Hana.

April through May and September through November are the ideal months to travel to Maui. While summer and winter are more expensive and crowded, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer Hawaii visitors the lovely weather they are looking for. However, if you enjoy surfing, you should go during the winter for the best conditions. Just make your reservations as early as possible to get a good deal. Spend more money on summer vacation if you're traveling with children because that's when the waters are the calmest.

Even though there are alternative possibilities, you should certainly try to sample as much of the local cuisine as you can when visiting a place like this. Like the rest of America, Maui supports the local food movement; here, dishes are piled high with just-caught fish and locally grown veggies. You should avoid resort-heavy areas and instead travel to towns like Lahaina, Kihei, and Paia, which are home to well-known eateries like Paia Fish Market, Mama's Fish House, Merriman, Star Noodle, Lahaina Grill, and Nalu's. More neighborhood mom-and-pop restaurants can be found the further away you go from Maui's resorts. These neighborhood eateries offer regional specialties including barbecued pork in banana leaves, poi (taro root powder), and haupia, a rich coconut custard. If you're unsure of where to begin your culinary journey, ask some locals for suggestions or book a spot on one of the top Maui tours.

Location: in northwest Maui, between Kapalua and Honokowai.

Ranking:

• #1 in Best Beaches in the U.S.
• #1 in Best Places to Visit in November
• #2 in Best Hawaiian Islands
• #3 in World's Best Places to Visit
• #4 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
• #4 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #5 in Best Honeymoon Destinations
• #7 in Best Adventure Vacations in the U.S.
  

You'll need to slow down if you want to blend in on Hilton Head, which is one of the best family beach vacations in the U.SAlthough affluent visitors may frequent this 42-square-mile barrier island, you don't have to run to keep up with the Joneses. Follow the leisurely pace of the locals; they are a mix of East Coast mainlanders who make Hilton Head their second home and descendants of the Gullah or the area's freed slaves who were established there. The world-class fairways will draw white-haired retirees and young families as your vacation companions (thanks to the clean beaches). As a result, if you're searching for wild nightlife, this might not be the place for you. It's not that there isn't nightlife; there is, but it typically takes the shape of leisurely sunset meals and lives music on the waterfront. In other words, you came to Hilton Head to unwind.

If you are familiar with the island, you are aware that it became known for its wealth through activities like tennis, golf, and "spa-ing." However, you could go your entire holiday here without ever picking up a tennis racquet or golf club. The Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Coastal Discovery Museum are only two of the island's many natural beauties. There are also 12 miles of sandy beaches. So Hilton Head provides something for everyone—whether you come to practice your backhand, observe low country fauna up close, or just unwind on the sand.

Hilton Head is at its most pleasant in April and May, as well as in September and October. While maintaining beach-friendly temperatures, spring and fall bring fewer tourists and cheaper housing. The island is particularly fantastic to visit in the summer, when the weather is ideal for ocean swimming. If you dislike crowds, which Hilton Head experiences in large numbers throughout the summer, you might want to consider visiting during one of the off-peak seasons. If you want to save some money and don't mind bringing a few jumpers to the beach.

There are two dining experiences you must have while visiting Hilton Head. Eat as much low-country fare as you can, to start. Second, be careful to do it near a body of water. Offering both is Skull Creek Boathouse. The Skull Creek Boathouse, which is in the northern part of Hilton Head, serves traditional Low Country fare such as low country boil and Carolina shrimp and grits. Red potatoes, corn on the cob, spicy sausage, and shellfish (often shrimp or crab) are all combined and boiled in a large pot to create the low country boil, a substantial dish that is designed to be shared. Traditionally, the ingredients are piled high on a picnic table covered with newspaper and served once they have cooked to perfection. Then, customers are urged to drizzle on the condiments, which commonly include tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, and spicy sauce.

Location: at Pope Avenue and South Forest Beach Drive

Ranking:

• #2 in Best South Carolina Beaches
• #5 in Best Places to Visit in the Carolinas
• #6 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #9 in Best Summer Vacations in the USA
• #9 in Best Family Spring Break Destinations
• #12 in Best Places to Visit in April
• #15 in Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• #21 in Best Beaches in the U.S.
  

Of all the Hawaiian islands, Oahu blends metropolitan luxury with magnificent scenery, creating one of the best family beach vacations in the U.S. Honolulu, the state's capital, exemplifies the island's metropolitan attraction. Numerous cultural and historic monuments are close by, ranging from the grandiose Iolani Palace to the somber USS Arizona Memorial at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Wide-open white sand beaches contrast with a skyline of high-rises and resorts in the surrounding Waikiki district. Visit the North Shore for a sample of the island's rustic life. The most brilliantly blue seas and winding walks may be found here. But Oahu has more must-see locations than just those three. The island's top-notch dining establishments, exciting cultural activities, and crazy nightlife further highlight it as a "gathering place" for Hawaiian culture.

Mid-April to early June or between September and mid-December are the ideal times to explore Oahu. In addition to events being plentiful and attractions being less crowded during these shoulder seasons, hotel and flight costs are also at their lowest. The year-round temperature ranges from the mid-60s to the high 80s, but during Oahu's summer months (mid-June to August), when rain showers are less frequent, travelers swarm to the island to enjoy the sunny weather. Another popular (and pricey) time to visit is between late December and early April when surfers flock to the North Shore to catch waves or watch pros compete in various surfing tournaments.

Despite the fact that Oahu is home to numerous well-known American chains, you should try some local cuisine while there. Shave ice, a cool delight flavored with exotic ingredients like coconut and passion fruit, and poke are two delicacies you must try (or marinated raw seafood). Many restaurants also offer a few Asian-inspired bites, like beef teriyaki and kalbi (or Korean barbecue short ribs), as part of plate lunch or on their own. Local specialties include kalua pork, which is traditionally wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground, and loco moco, which is white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. Plate lunches frequently include rice, macaroni salad, and one or two proteins.

Location: Honolulu County, Hawaii, U.S.

Ranking:

• #3 in Best Places to Visit in September
• #4 in Best Family Winter Vacations
• #4 in Best Family Spring Break Destinations
• #5 in Best Beaches in the U.S.
• #5 in Best Hawaiian Islands
• #6 in Best Winter Vacations
• #7 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
• #7 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #8 in Best Christmas Vacations
  

As America's first coastal resort, Cape May has long been a popular summer destination. This little hamlet is situated about 45 miles south of Atlantic City, New Jersey; 95 miles southeast of Philadelphia, and roughly 160 miles south of New York City. It is a part of the Jersey Cape's stretch of beaches and boardwalks. Less than 3,500 people call it home, but more than 50,000 tourists visit each year. Along with its immaculate beaches, Cape May is known for its collection of charming bed-and-breakfasts and over 600 Victorian structures that have been preserved.

Its military presence is especially notable; during World War II, Cape May played a significant part in defending the nation, and today, around 30% of the local population serves in the armed forces. You're sure to instantly appreciate the attractiveness of this coastal retreat, whether you decide to spend your day's wine tasting, exploring historical monuments, or birdwatching (Cape May provides some of the best birding areas in the world).

The finest months to visit Cape May are May through September when the weather is mild enough for swimming and tanning. Even while the Jersey Shore comes alive in the summer, there are still lots of things to do here all year round. Visit the city during the holiday season to view the Victorian homes decked out in sparkling lights, or go in the fall to take in the Cape May Fall Festival in October. Even in spring, some people travel, particularly those who want to commemorate Easter. No matter when you decide to visit, the charm of this small coastal town will undoubtedly come through.

Cape May's off-season, which is the perfect time to get hotel and travel deals, is the winter and early spring. Just be aware that some businesses close their doors or operate fewer hours during the slower seasons. Rent a vacation house rather than a hotel to reduce your lodging costs. If you're traveling in a group, choosing a big house and spreading the bills among everyone will allow you to make even more money. It can be challenging to navigate Cape May (and find parking there). Instead, live by the motto "carfree, carefree" and go around the city on a bicycle or on foot. The icing on the cake will be saving money.

Location: a southernmost county in the state of New Jersey, the United States

Ranking:

• #1 in Best New Jersey Beaches
• #4 in Best Places to Visit in New Jersey
• #4 in Best Day Trips from NYC
• #8 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #11 in Best Places to Visit in August
• #22 in Best Beaches in the U.S.
• #24 in Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA
  

The Bush family has been taking vacations in Kennebunkport for years, as any politician can confirm. Additionally, a paparazzi might nudge you to set up camp along Ocean Drive so you can take a hazy photo of the Obamas at their Walker's Point estate. But the town shouldn't even be recognized for housing politicians; that's not even what this southern coastal region of Maine does best. A natural beach resort with miles of rocky beachfront filled with summer houses and yachts. It is a peaceful seaside paradise. Local fishermen and lobstermen bring the morning's catch to the town's outdoor eateries as local artists set up shop on Dock Square's wharves. Even the beaches are inconspicuous and serene, and you may access them from the road by unmarked footpaths. You may have really discovered the ideal location to unwind here.

Kennebunkport is one of the best family beach vacations in the U.S. and is at its warmest between June and October, making those months the ideal time to visit. The only drawback is that, over this extended season, nightly prices will be at their highest. Visitation is less expensive and less busy from March to May, but following the significant cold snap from November to February, businesses take longer to open. You should bring plenty of thick clothes because temperatures can drop to the low teens.

The town's dining options feature a lot of seafood as a result of Kennebunkport's position along the Atlantic coast of New England. Oysters, clams, mussels, lobster, fish, and other seafood can be found on restaurants all across the city. Many of the city's restaurants are situated right on to the lake, providing diners with beautiful waterfront views from their patios.

Location: a resort town in York County, Maine, United States

Ranking:

• #1 in Best Maine Beaches
• #4 in Best Relaxing Getaways in the USA
• #8 in Best Places to Visit in Maine
• #9 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #20 in Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA
  

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is known for its immaculate beaches, but there is more to this popular vacation destination than its 60 miles of brown sand. Myrtle Beach, one of the most well-liked East Coast family vacation spots, has amusement parks with everything from roller coasters to race tracks to water slides. The family can enjoy pirate or medieval-themed revues while eating dinner while the outlet mall-loving members of the family spend time playing golf at one of the more than 100 courses in the vicinity. When you're not at the beach, family members of all ages can be entertained at places like Ripley's Aquarium and the Broadway Grand Prix. For sports fans, there is also a minor league baseball team. In summary, Myrtle Beach is the best place for families searching for a wide range of affordable entertainment options.

From June to August, when the weather is ideal for lounging on the beach, is the finest time to visit Myrtle Beach. This time of year, especially in July, you can anticipate a few afternoon rain showers. Additionally, bear in mind that the region's hurricane season runs from June through November. Visit around March through May to enjoy some nice weather and slightly lower rates, but be prepared for spring breakers from local colleges to swarm the beach and nearby hotels. Autumn brings discounted hotel rates and a change in weather, with highs in the 70s and lows in the 40s. Wintertime brings the lowest prices (and fewest visitors), but be mindful that several local restaurants and attractions will be closed or have shortened hours.

There are chain restaurants all across Myrtle Beach, including Hard Rock Café, Senor Frog's, and Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville. This is not the place to go if you want to find a diverse and avant-garde cuisine scene. Variety, however, is one thing the city does not lack. The stretch of Kings Highway (U.S. Highway 17) has so many eateries that it is frequently referred to as "Restaurant Row." There are also a good number of locally owned restaurants, the most of which specialize in seafood. Well-regarded restaurants include Mr. Fish, Captain George's Seafood Restaurant, and Sea Captain's House.

Location: in a coastal city on the east coast of the United States in Horry County, South Carolina.

Ranking:

• #6 in Best Places to Visit in the Carolinas
• #8 in Best Cheap Family Vacations
• #9 in Best Cheap Spring Break Destinations
• #10 in Best Family Spring Break Destinations
• #10 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #12 in Best South Carolina Beaches
• #14 in Best Places to Visit in June
• #20 in Best Family Vacations in the USA
  

In St. Augustine, everywhere you go, there's a good chance you'll encounter American history. The oldest continuously inhabited European community in the United States is this village in northeastern Florida, which was founded by the Spaniards in 1565. Many of the Romanesque Revival-style buildings in St. Augustine were created by railroad and oil tycoon Henry Flagler, who was instrumental in the development of the city and the rest of Florida's east coast. These structures can be found alongside colonial architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. It shouldn't be surprising that St. Augustine has a fondness for the supernatural given its extensive history: Nighttime ghost tours are promoted by several of the town's prominent attractions, which are said to be haunted by Spanish settlers and native residents.

The plethora of Spanish-era landmarks is the Ancient City's main draw, but it also has a variety of shops, restaurants, live music venues, and art galleries. Visitors with kids should visit the St. Augustine Wild Reserve and the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum. Shopaholics can't resist the opportunity to browse the boutiques on St. George Street, while art fans will enjoy the unique collection of art at the Lightner Museum. And when you're prepared to unwind, get your belongings and head to the beach. St. Augustine provides easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and year-round sunshine like many coastal Florida towns do.

The months of March through May are the ideal times to visit St. Augustine. There will be fewer people around, it will be a nice temperature, and hotel and ticket prices will be lower. Between December and February, temperatures can drop into the 40s, while crowds are normally at their highest during the months of June to August. While the Atlantic hurricane season, which begins in June and lasts through the end of November, is during these months, you'll still get to enjoy pleasant weather and save money on lodging.

Because St. Augustine is surrounded by three rivers, a lagoon, and the Atlantic Ocean, the town's restaurants serve a lot of excellent seafood. Grouper, shrimp, and mahi-mahi can be found on the menus of St. Augustine restaurants as Florida seafood specialties. Visit well-known restaurants like Sunset Grille and O'Steen's Restaurant to enjoy some of the excellent fish the area has to offer.

Location: in the Southeastern United States, on the Atlantic coast of northeastern Florida.

Ranking:

• #4 in Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• #7 in Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA
• #8 in Best Places to Visit in Florida
• #8 in Best Cheap Honeymoons in the U.S.
• #11 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #12 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S.
• #19 in Best Beaches in the U.S.
  

The California dream is constructed in Laguna Beach. This picturesque location offers visitors isolated beaches, gorgeous coastal parks, and flowing, lush mountains. Just a few of the numerous characteristics that make this southern California location special include all of the aforementioned, as well as its small town vibe and historical arts culture. Furthermore, getting there is quite simple. Laguna Beach is the ideal stop for your California road trip because it is positioned directly along the Pacific Coast Highway and is midway between San Diego and Los Angeles.

You just have to visit Laguna Beach to appreciate its beauty, and once you do, you will be awestruck by its magnificence. But Laguna Beach is undoubtedly more than just a pretty face. The town's love of the arts is evident both inside the numerous galleries that line PCH and outside on the streets, where more than 100 public art installations may be discovered. Also deeply valued are the local flora and wildlife. Whale watching is a popular activity, the town is home to a number of wildflower-filled coastal parks, including one of the last intact coastal canyons in southern California, and the headquarters for the rescue and rehabilitation of the Orange County coast seal population is situated here. Take the time to get to know the people of Laguna Beach, take in as much of the coastline as you can, and don't forget to take lots of pictures along the way. However, given how memorable the surroundings are, you won't have any trouble recalling Laguna Beach's stunning beauty.

Visit Laguna Beach between April and May or September and October for the greatest weather. Travelers can still enjoy average daytime temperatures of 70 degrees or greater during the spring and fall months even though there are far fewer visitors than during the summer. The majority of Laguna's annual festivities take place in the summer, which is also the city's busiest travel season. Discounts abound during the winter, but the water at the beach will be too cold for swimming, and the nighttime lows might reach the low 40s.

Driving is the best means of transportation in Laguna Beach. There isn't a regular public transportation system here because the town isn't very huge and it's a wealthy neighborhood. The Laguna Beach trolley is the sole mode of public transportation offered; it only runs on weekends and only travels through the town center, with the exception of the summer months. John Wayne Airport (SNA), which is located about 16 miles northeast of the town, is the closest airport.

Location: in southern Orange County, California, in the United States.

Ranking:

• #1 in Best California Beaches
• #12 in Best Beaches in the U.S.
• #12 in Best Places to Visit in May
• #12 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #12 in Best Places to Visit in California
• #19 in Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA
  

The Monterey Peninsula is unique among all of California's regions. Here, time slows down, the houses are modest (with the exception of those in Pebble Beach), and the way of life is the ideal fusion of SoCal casual and NorCal chic. The town of Monterey draws the majority of visitors on the peninsula's northern side, while Carmel-by-the-Sea attracts the mellow, affluent crowd further south. Real estate is extremely expensive, which helps preserve the small-town feel along Monterey's breath-taking coastline.

This region is perfect for a pit stop on a road trip or a weekend getaway for two. Did we also bring up the golf courses? Some of the most sought-after fairways in the world are located along this section of the California coast. Additionally, it is a year-round whale-watching location and the starting point for several of the top California cruises. When you consider the wealth of natural beauty, five-star hotels, and seafood eateries, Monterey may be the ideal location for your upcoming vacation when you consider the ideal location.

The months of April and May are the ideal times to visit Monterey. Warmer weather, less crowds, and delicious food festivals like Pebble Beach Food & Wine and the Castroville Artichoke Festival are all benefits of spring. Though the sun's rays are at their fiercest during the summer, Monterey may still be chilly. Summer is the most well-liked season to travel to the Monterey Peninsula. Bring a sweater no matter the season because the area, which is close on the seaside, is prone to harsh gusts. Another great season to travel is in the fall, but beginning in October, there will probably be more rain. Due to its central California position, Monterey experiences mild winters, with an average low temperature of 48 degrees.

Fresh seafood is naturally a mainstay on menus all around the region because of Monterey's location along the Pacific Ocean. When looking for a taste of Monterey's renowned clam chowder, Old Fisherman's Wharf is frequently the first place people turn. Travelers, however, have found the places to be pricey and subpar despite the wharf's unrivaled views and plentiful free samples. Walk one pier over to LouLou's Griddle in the Middle for less expensive chowder and a delightfully quirky setting to escape the crowds and eat excellent fish.

Location: southern Monterey Bay in Monterey County, California.

Ranking:

• #2 in Best Day Trips from San Francisco
• #4 in Best Cheap Honeymoons in the U.S.
• #5 in Best Places to Visit in California
• #8 in Best California Beaches
• #8 in Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA
• #14 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #15 in Best Beaches in the U.S.