Summer is right around the corner and the notorious “beach vacation” is ready to be planned! But if you’re not the best planner, don’t fret. We’ve found the best last-minute beach trips for when you’re in need of an impromptu coastal getaway.
11 Last-Minute Beach Trips Around the Nation
1. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
If you’re not from New England, you may not know Cape Cod isn’t just a beloved kettle potato chip brand but a stunning destination with some of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S. It’s one of the best spots for last-minute beach trips for those in the north but will require a bit of a drive to reach the best beaches. While not sunbathing, there’s plenty to enjoy on the Cape like shopping or indulging in delicious fresh seafood.
2. Golden Isles, Georgia
Nestled between Savannah, GA and Jacksonville, FL, the Golden Isles is one of the most easily accessible last-minute beach trips. It’s a gorgeous group of islands off the coast of Georgia defined by its centuries-old live oaks, pristine beaches, and great golf.
3. The Hamptons, New York
The Hamptons is the perfect last-minute beach getaway for city-goers and has remained one of the most famous coastal destinations for quite some time. From the rural settings to the exclusivity of many establishments in the area, The Hamptons captures the luxury of being beachside in one of the most revered locations on the East Coast.
4. Nantucket, Massachusetts
Known for its bay scallops and foggy weather, Nantucket is one of the most unique last-minute beach trips on our list. It’s accessible only by boat or by air just 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod. It used to be the whaling capital of the world, which was the main contributor to the wealth of the islanders.
5. Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May, New Jersey is a beautiful last-minute beach destination for many reasons but can be noted as the first seaside holiday destination in the U.S. With Victorian cottages and tree-lined streets, Cape May offers a surprisingly nostalgic atmosphere in an especially unique setting.
6. Hilton Head, South Carolina
How does golf in the morning and beach in the afternoon sound? With a getaway to Hilton Head, your vacation could sound just like that. Hilton Head is a beautiful destination with wide, expansive beaches and is highly regarded as one of the best overall coastal locations in the country.
7. Miami Beach, Florida
Miami Beach is a great beach destination for the adults in the family. Known for its cinematic beaches, pastel facades, designer boutiques, and world-class nightlife, there’s plenty to do in Miami Beach on and off the sand.
8. Cannon Beach, Oregon
Located in the Coast Mountain Range along the Pacific Ocean is Cannon Beach. It’s most known for Haystack Rock which rises 235 feet from the ground, making it the third-largest monolith in the world.
9. Assateague Island, Maryland/Virginia
There are few places in the country where wild horses still roam free, but Assateague Island is one of them. Assateague is a 37-mile-long barrier island off the coasts of Maryland and Virginia. It offers picturesque beaches, marshes, maritime forests, and more.
10. Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks is much different from many of the last-minute beach trips we’ve already listed. There are no massive theme parks, few high-rise hotels, little neon lights – just the beach. Not to be ignored are the incredible fishing opportunities off the North Carolina coast and delicious fresh seafood.
11. Malibu, California
Malibu, California has multiple beaches and hiking trails and is one of the most beautiful spots on the West Coast. From snorkeling to exploring the Point Dume State Beach, Malibu is a beach destination you won’t want to miss.
You don’t need to have a plan for these last-minute beach trips, but make sure you travel there stress-free with ShipGo.