Looking for a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Philadelphia? You’re in luck! The City of Brotherly Love has an abundance of beautiful beaches within easy reach. Whether you’re craving a family-friendly atmosphere, thrilling boardwalk adventures, or a serene coastal retreat, there’s a beach destination that’s just right for you.
From the bustling shores of Ocean City to the Victorian charm of Cape May, this guide will take you on a journey to discover the best beaches near Philadelphia. You’ll explore the wide, sandy stretches of Wildwood, the upscale twin towns of Avalon and Stone Harbor, and the clean waters of Rehoboth Beach. Get ready to pack your sunscreen and beach towels as we dive into these coastal gems that are waiting for you to explore.
Ocean City, NJ: The Ultimate Family Destination
Ocean City, New Jersey, has been a beloved seaside resort town for generations, offering an unparalleled coastal experience for visitors of all ages. With its pristine beaches, family-friendly attractions, and charming boardwalk, this vibrant coastal community has something to offer for every family, whether you’re looking for a lively, action-packed vacation or a peaceful, rejuvenating getaway.
Ocean City’s Attractions
The iconic Ocean City Boardwalk is a must-visit destination that caters to all interests and age groups. You’ll find a variety of shops, eateries, and amusement parks along this famous promenade. Treat yourself to classic boardwalk delights like saltwater taffy, funnel cakes, and ice cream, or enjoy more substantial meals at the many restaurants and cafes.
For an extra dose of family fun, visit during July and August when the Boardwalk merchants organize Family Night every Thursday. This free event includes unique activities at every block, such as live music, magicians, yo-yo demonstrations, and face painting, creating an excellent way for you to spend the evening with your loved ones.
If you’re ready for a day away from the beach, check out the thrilling rides at Playland’s Castaway Cove or explore the water park. The list of activities and amusements for kids in Ocean City is practically endless, ensuring that your family will never have a dull moment.
Ocean City’s Beach Experience
Ocean City’s beaches are renowned for their soft, white sand and gentle waves, making them perfect for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and beach games. Stretching for eight miles, these pristine shores attract vacationers from around the world.
You can enjoy a wide range of activities on the beach, including:
- Building sandcastles
- Flying kites
- Playing beach volleyball
- Lounging in the sun
- Swimming in the ocean
Lifeguards are stationed along the beach during the summer to maintain a fun and safe atmosphere for everyone during their time at the shore.
For those seeking adventure beyond the beach, head to the other side of the island to explore Great Egg Harbor Bay. This thriving ecosystem is perfect for fishing, boating, and kayaking. Several rental shops on the bay side provide everything you need for a day of fishing on the water or from the shore, offering a great way to spend quality time with your kids in a relaxing setting.
Ocean City’s Accommodations
Finding the perfect place to stay in Ocean City is easy, with options to suit every budget and preference. You can choose from a variety of family-friendly accommodations, including:
- Beachfront hotels and resorts
- Cozy vacation rentals
- Motels
- Bed & breakfasts
- Campgrounds
Whether you plan to stay for a night, a weekend, a week, or even longer, you’re sure to find the ideal accommodations for you and your family. Many options are conveniently located throughout the city, allowing you to easily access the beach and other attractions.
Wildwood, NJ: Thrills and Wide Beaches
When you’re looking for a beach destination that combines excitement with expansive shorelines, Wildwood, New Jersey, is the place to be. This vibrant Jersey Shore town offers a perfect blend of thrilling attractions and pristine beaches, making it an ideal getaway for families and adventure seekers alike.
Wildwood’s Attractions
The heart of Wildwood’s excitement lies in its world-famous boardwalk. Stretching for two miles, this neon-lit slice of Americana is a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. As you stroll along, you’ll encounter a variety of shops, over 200 eateries, and countless entertainment options.
At the center of the boardwalk’s allure is Morey’s Piers, a massive amusement park complex featuring:
- Three piers with over 100 rides and attractions
- Heart-pounding roller coasters
- Refreshing water slides
- Classic carnival games
For those seeking aquatic thrills, Wildwood boasts three beachfront water parks where you can cool off and enjoy wet ‘n wild adventures.
Wildwood’s Beach Experience
Wildwood’s beaches are truly something special. Spanning five miles across North Wildwood, Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest, these expansive shores are among the widest on the East Coast. The best part? They’re completely free to access – no beach tags required!
On these spacious, white-sandy beaches, you can:
- Swim in the sparkling ocean
- Soak up the sun
- Build sandcastles
- Play beach sports
- Try water activities like surfing, boogie boarding, and paddle-boarding
For families, beach wagons with sturdy wheels are essential for transporting your gear. You can also rent umbrellas for $20 per day if you need some shade. To make your spot easy to find, consider bringing a novelty flag – a popular choice among beachgoers.
Wildwood’s Accommodations
Wildwood offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. You’ll find a charming mix of small apartment buildings, hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts. Many of these establishments maintain a nostalgic 1950s vibe, adding to Wildwood’s unique character.
Some popular accommodation choices include:
- Port Royal and Armada By-the-Sea: Higher-end hotels in Wildwood Crest
- The Jolly Roger: A classic motel that has retained its timeless appeal
- Enchantras and Sea Gypsy: Cozy bed and breakfast options
Keep in mind that summer rates can be quite high, ranging from $300 to $500 per night for a standard hotel room. Weekly rentals through platforms like Airbnb can cost between $3000 to $5000.
Whether you’re seeking thrills on the boardwalk or relaxation on the wide, sandy beaches, Wildwood offers an unforgettable Jersey Shore experience. With its blend of exciting attractions, spacious beaches, and diverse accommodation options, you’re sure to create lasting memories in this lively coastal town.
Avalon and Stone Harbor, NJ: Upscale Twin Towns
Nestled on the southern end of the New Jersey shore, Avalon and Stone Harbor are two upscale twin towns that offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, high-end amenities, and a laid-back coastal vibe. These neighboring communities are known for their pristine beaches, luxurious accommodations, and a wide range of attractions that cater to discerning travelers.
Avalon and Stone Harbor’s Attractions
When you visit Avalon and Stone Harbor, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained. The towns boast a vibrant shopping scene along Dune Drive in Avalon and the 96th Street Shopping Center in Stone Harbor. Here, you can explore local boutiques, name-brand stores, and charming home decor shops.
For nature enthusiasts, the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit. This 21.5-acre preserve offers a unique opportunity to observe local wildlife. History buffs will appreciate the Avalon History Center, which showcases the area’s rich past through photographs and artifacts.
To add some adventure to your trip, consider these activities:
- Kayaking or paddleboarding with Harbor Outfitters
- Surfing lessons at Avalon Surf
- Parasailing with Sea Isle Parasail
- Golfing at Stone Harbor Golf Club or Avalon Golf Club
- Wine tasting at Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery
For a unique experience, visit The Wetlands Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to coastal ecosystem education and conservation.
Avalon and Stone Harbor’s Beach Experience
The crown jewel of these twin towns is undoubtedly Seven Mile Beach, which stretches across both Avalon and Stone Harbor. These stunning beaches offer the perfect setting for a relaxing New Jersey vacation. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports in designated areas.
To access the beaches, you’ll need to purchase a beach tag for everyone in your party aged 12 and older. Remember that you’ll need separate tags for Avalon and Stone Harbor beaches if you plan to explore both.
The beaches are protected and monitored by lifeguards, ensuring a safe environment for bathing and swimming. Whether you’re looking to catch some waves or simply soak up the sun, these pristine shores provide the ideal backdrop for your coastal getaway.
Avalon and Stone Harbor’s Accommodations
When it comes to accommodations, Avalon and Stone Harbor offer a range of options to suit various preferences and budgets. From luxurious beachfront resorts to charming bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals, you’ll find the perfect place to call home during your stay.
For a truly upscale experience, consider the ICONA Avalon beachfront resort. This coastal-chic retreat features:
- 159 beautifully designed rooms with nautical touches
- Three distinctive bars and restaurants
- Elegant event spaces
- A prime location steps away from the sand
Another excellent option is The Reeds in Stone Harbor, a year-round luxury boutique hotel offering:
- Distinctively designed guestrooms and suites
- Breathtaking sunset views
- The Salt Spa, featuring rejuvenating treatments and a Turkish Bath
Both of these high-end accommodations provide the perfect base for exploring the twin towns and enjoying the ultimate comfort and serenity at the seashore.
Rehoboth Beach, DE: Clean Waters and Shopping
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, is a popular vacation destination that offers a perfect blend of pristine beaches, family-friendly attractions, and a vibrant shopping scene. This coastal gem has something for everyone, from its clean waters to its bustling boardwalk.
Rehoboth Beach’s Attractions
When you visit Rehoboth Beach, you’ll find a wealth of attractions to keep you entertained. The town’s centerpiece is its mile-long boardwalk, a hub of activity lined with old-fashioned family amusements, beach stores, and delicious eateries. As you stroll along, you can enjoy people-watching and soak in the lively atmosphere.
For those seeking adventure, Rehoboth Beach offers a variety of activities:
- Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking with Delmarva Board Sport Adventures
- Exciting water slides at Delaware’s largest waterpark, Jungle Jim’s
- Unique full moon rise kayak tours on Rehoboth Bay
- Shopping at Tanger Outlets, featuring over 130 stores and designer outlets
Don’t miss the chance to experience The Haunted Mansion, a classic attraction tucked away in a corner of Funland, right off the boardwalk.
Rehoboth Beach’s Beach Experience
The main draw of Rehoboth Beach is, of course, its beautiful shoreline. You’ll find miles of soft, sandy beach along the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The clean waters make it an ideal spot for a refreshing dip or trying out water sports like surfing.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, keep in mind:
- Lifeguards are on duty during the swimming season (May to September)
- Beach wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis from 10 am to 5 pm during the beach season
- Dogs are not allowed on the beach from May 1st to September 30th
- Parking is available at paid meters, and parking permits are required in certain areas
The water quality is closely monitored by the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, with samples collected weekly to ensure it’s safe for swimming.
Rehoboth Beach’s Accommodations
You’ll find a wide range of accommodation options in Rehoboth Beach to suit every preference and budget. Many hotels and resorts are conveniently located just steps away from the beach, providing easy access to the water and all the amenities of the boardwalk.
Your choices include:
- Beachfront hotels with stunning ocean views
- Cozy bed and breakfasts for a more intimate stay
- Vacation rentals for those seeking a home-away-from-home experience
These accommodations allow you to fully immerse yourself in the coastal living experience, whether you’re waking up to the sound of crashing waves or enjoying the salty sea breeze from your balcony.
Cape May, NJ: Victorian Charm by the Sea
When you visit Cape May, New Jersey, you’ll step into a world where Victorian-era charm meets seaside beauty. This picturesque town, designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1976, offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and coastal allure.
Cape May’s Attractions
As you stroll through Cape May’s historic district, you’ll be captivated by the well-preserved Victorian architecture. The colorful Victorian homes, inns, and shops create a picturesque backdrop for your vacation. Take your camera along to capture these beautiful buildings from the 1800s, each reflecting the fashion of its time with elements from Gothic, Queen Anne, Italianate, and Greek Revival styles.
For history enthusiasts, the Cape May Lighthouse in Cape May Point State Park is a must-visit. Built in 1859, it’s said to be the second oldest continually operating lighthouse in the United States. Another historical gem is the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse and Museum, which served sailors from 1874 to 1964. Its Victorian design offers a glimpse into the life of lighthouse keepers, and you can explore its museum, gift shop, and award-winning gardens.
To immerse yourself in the town’s rich history, consider visiting:
- The Avalon Free Public Library and History Center
- Historic Cold Spring Village, an Early American living history museum
- The Stone Harbor Museum
- The Mid-Atlantic Center (MAC), which offers walking and trolley tours of the historic district
Cape May’s Beach Experience
Cape May’s beaches are a major draw for visitors, offering miles of sandy shoreline and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll find gentle waves perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The pristine beaches provide an ideal setting for a relaxing day by the sea, whether you’re looking to catch some rays, build sandcastles, or take a refreshing dip in the ocean.
For those seeking more active pursuits, Cape May offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy:
- Birdwatching in the nearby Cape May Point State Park
- Fishing in the abundant waters
- Hiking along scenic trails
Cape May’s Accommodations
When it comes to accommodations, Cape May caters to all tastes and budgets. You’ll find a wide range of options, from historic inns and bed and breakfasts to modern hotels and vacation rentals. Many of these are conveniently located within walking distance of the beach and the Washington Street Mall.
For a truly Victorian experience, consider staying in one of Cape May’s charming B&Bs. These restored Victorian homes offer a perfect blend of historic ambiance and modern amenities. Most include breakfast and have an on-site innkeeper to ensure your comfort and assist with vacation plans.
If you prefer more independence, guest houses provide the ambiance of a B&B with the freedom of a hotel. Many offer amenities like kitchens or kitchenettes, making them ideal for families.
For those seeking luxury, oceanfront hotels like Congress Hall on Beach Avenue offer upscale accommodations with on-site restaurants and bars. If you’re traveling with pets, you’ll find several pet-friendly options throughout Cape May.
No matter where you choose to stay, you’ll be surrounded by the unique charm and history that make Cape May a truly special destination.
The Best Beaches Near Philadelphia are Just a Short Ride Away!
The beautiful beaches near Philadelphia offer a perfect escape for those seeking sun, sand, and surf. From the family-friendly atmosphere of Ocean City to the Victorian charm of Cape May, each destination has its own unique appeal. These coastal getaways provide a blend of relaxation and excitement, with pristine shorelines, vibrant boardwalks, and a wide range of activities to suit all tastes.
Whether you’re looking to unwind on expansive beaches, explore charming coastal towns, or enjoy thrilling attractions, these beach destinations near Philadelphia have something for everyone. With their diverse offerings and proximity to the city, they present ideal options to create lasting memories and experience the best of the East Coast’s seaside allure. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to discover these coastal gems just a short drive from the City of Brotherly Love.
FAQs
1. What beach destinations do Philadelphia residents frequently visit?
Philadelphia residents often head to Long Beach Island along the Jersey Shore, which is renowned for its clear waters and sandy shores, making it a favorite among beachgoers.
2. Which beach is the most accessible from Philadelphia?
Some of the most drivable beaches near Philadelphia include Long Beach Island (LBI), Orchard Beach in the Bronx, Coney Island, Manhattan Beach, Rockaway Beach, Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, and Dewey Beach. These destinations vary in distance, with the nearest being about 70 miles away.
3. What is the nearest beach to Philadelphia that can be reached by car?
Atlantic City is the closest beach to Philadelphia by car. It is one of the largest coastal cities in New Jersey and offers a more extensive array of amenities compared to other nearby beach towns.
4. Which beach is considered the most beautiful in the world?
As of 2024, some of the top-rated beaches worldwide include those in Fiji, Turks & Caicos, the Bahamas, Bora Bora, the Maldives, Mauritius, the Whitsunday Islands, and Maui. These beaches are celebrated for their stunning natural beauty and pristine conditions.