Title: Six Great Beaches for Family-Favorite Summer Activities in the United States and Baja California
A family beach vacation is a classic American pastime, but not all beaches are created equal when it comes to catering to different age groups and interests. From castle builders to shell collectors, snorkelers to tide pool explorers, there are beaches across the United States and Baja California that offer something for everyone. Here are six great beaches for family-favorite summer activities:
1. Mission Beach, San Diego – For castle builders
San Diego’s Mission Beach is the perfect spot for families who prefer building sandcastles over lounging on the shore. Sand sculptor JT Estrela offers lessons in the art of sandcastle construction on this family-friendly beach, where the sand is ideal for building elaborate structures. With its boardwalk amusement park, historic swimming pool, and excellent playgrounds, Mission Beach is a fun-filled destination for kids of all ages.
2. Onekahakaha Beach Park, Big Island, Hawaii – For young swimmers and snorkelers
Located on the rugged coast of the Big Island, Onekahakaha Beach Park offers calm, warm ocean pools enclosed by lava rock walls, making it perfect for young swimmers and snorkelers. With lifeguards on duty and nonthreatening marine life, this beach is a safe and accessible option for families looking to enjoy the water.
3. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina – For aspiring surfers
Surf With Sean offers private surfing lessons for kids as young as 3, making Wrightsville Beach a great destination for families looking to catch some waves. In addition to surfing, the area boasts a fishing pier and a modern playground, adding to its appeal for families with children.
4. Carkeek Park, Seattle – For tide pool explorers
Carkeek Park in Seattle offers an immersive experience in Puget Sound marine life, with tide pools filled with starfish, sea snails, anemones, and crabs. The park is part of the Seattle Aquarium’s Beach Naturalist Program, making it a great educational destination for families.
5. Tigertail Beach, Marco Island, Florida – For shell hunters
Tigertail Beach on Marco Island is a great alternative to the popular shelling destination of Sanibel Island. The beach offers exceptional shelling opportunities, with rare and striking seashells waiting to be discovered. Shelling tours are also available for those looking to explore the area further.
6. Playa el Chileno, Los Cabos, Mexico – For young snorkelers
Located between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, Playa el Chileno is a tranquil beach perfect for inexperienced snorkelers. The beach is well-maintained and offers guided snorkeling tours that allow visitors to explore the coral reef and encounter a variety of marine life.
Whether you’re building sandcastles, exploring tide pools, hunting for shells, surfing, or snorkeling, these six beaches offer something for every member of the family to enjoy on a summer vacation.
