The anticipation of having a rejuvenating holiday keeps you in a great mood for months before the date of the journey. From choosing a destination to booking luxurious hotels – the process is as exciting as the trip. Preparing the itinerary with your partner is another enjoyable activity. But have you checked the best time to go to the beach?
Most people miss researching the weather conditions before setting out on an adventure. But based on that, you should select the places to visit. Now, irrespective of the season, finding a perfect beach destination in the US won’t be challenging.
There are countless scenic beaches where you can spend quality time with your family. So, before you go, let us know the best beach time.
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When is the best time to go to the beach?
An ideal time to go to a beach depends on various factors. The first thing that you must find out is the climate. Affordability, availability of hotels, watersports and adventure activities, and the nature of the water are other significant aspects. Depending on its geographical location, the weather conditions will vary.
While summer might be a suitable time to go to a particular beach, the weather during April and May can be unbearable on another pretty beach.
So, when is the best time to go to the beach? Have a look at this detailed guide that includes some mesmerizing beaches along with the perfect seasons to be there.
Best time to go to the beach for vitamin sea
Here’s a list of some breathtakingly beautiful beach locations in the United States:
Maui
While the wildfires in Maui in 2023 has left the island burnt, it will bounce back soon. And once it does, it again be the best beach to visit in US.
Maui is a place straight out of a fairytale. Globetrotters flock to Maui because of its enchanting Hawaiian beaches.
Despite the crowd, Ka’anapali Beach and Wailea Beach are classics that you can’t afford to miss. These two beaches, with many bars and pubs, are the best places for party animals.
Maui won’t disappoint you if you have a low-key experience in mind. Ho’okipa Beach Park and Napil Bay Beach are two secluded beaches where you can spend some undisturbed time with your lover.
Wondering where you’ll find the sparkling black sands of Maui? It’s in Wai’anapanapa State Park which is a protected area with dense tropical foliage.
Best months for Maui
To witness the true beauty of Maui, visit in April, May, or September. The weather is comfortable in the fall and spring seasons.
You’ll also be able to avoid the heavy crowds that Maui witnesses in winter and summer. However, if you are a surfer, traveling in winter makes sense. But for people flying to Maui with kids, a summer trip is ideal as the water is calm.
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is present on a barrier island in Florida’s Clearwater. It is a Gulf Coast Beach, 3 miles in length, and is meant for relaxation seekers and active travelers.
Clearwater Beach is an awesome place for adventure-seeking souls as it offers opportunities for snorkeling, paddleboarding, sailing, and sunset cruising.
By the sand, the sea is calm and warm. You will easily get cheap cabanas on rent. If you are vacationing with young kids, the playground area close to the pier won’t let your children feel bored.
If you have enough time, you should go to the Caladesi Island State Park for nature trails and an untouched shoreline.
Best time to go to the beach in Florida
You should go to Clearwater Beach or other beaches in Florida in October, November, and December. These are Autumn months and have fewer tourists and low humidity.
A plethora of holiday events take place to keep you entertained. Visit in April-June if seeing wildlife is your primary objective.
Other than migratory birds, you will spot stingrays and colorful sea turtles. Note that you should not book tickets in July or August as it is the hurricane season in Florida.
Monterey
Do you want to be somewhere far from the madding crowd of Southern California’s loud beaches? You are bound to fall in love with Monterey as its slow-paced life will bewitch you.
If your children will accompany you on this trip, take them to Monterey State Beach. It has the widest coastline and the least turbulent waters.
Additionally, include Fort Ord Dunes State Park and Del Monte Beach on your itinerary. These places offer terrific beachcombing chances and awe-inspiring dunes.
Best time to visit Monterey
To have a remarkable vacation, go to Monterey in April or May. Spring in Monterey comes with warm temperatures and vibrant festivals like Artichoke Festival, Castroville, and Pebble Beach Food & Wine.
If you’ve picked Monterey, summer is undoubtedly the best time to go to the beach as the weather here is never too humid. On the contrary, it can be chilly despite being sunny. So, include sweaters in your bag to stop the bitter winds from bothering you.
Destin
Known as the ‘World’s Luckiest Fishing Village’, Destin is located on the Florida Panhandle. It has earned this title because of its excellent underwater population of snapper, grouper, and other fishes. But fishing opportunities aren’t the only reason why a large number of tourists come to this seaside city.
Destin also has a bevy of magnificent beaches. For instance, Crystal Beach Park’s shores form a pristine spot to relax or swim. When in Destin, you must check out Henderson Beach State Park and Crab Island. You can opt for Destin Dolphin Cruises if you wish to spot dolphins.
Best time to visit Destin
As per travel experts, April and May is the best time to go to the beach in Destin. The water is warm and the temperature is soothing.
If you visit in February or March, you will get chilly water and cooler weather. A summer trip, on the other hand, might not be a great idea if you seek isolation.
How about fall or late summer? The temperature will be sweltering and there will be heavy showers.
Key West
Charming and lively, Key West is popular among families. It is Florida’s most well-known island for a variety of reasons.
It is an eccentric yet casual weekend retreat that is known for its chalk-white sand. The water surrounding this beach is crystal clear, making it a paradise for snorkelers from around the globe.
There are many beachside bars and restaurants that serve the most delectable dishes to tantalize your taste buds.
Want more reasons to include Key West on your bucket list?
Smathers Beach in Key West serves as a superb location that has volleyball courts and all types of watersports equipment.
Best time to visit Key West
You can visit Key West in March, April, or May. During these months, hotel rates will be reasonable as the winter crowd will subside.
As far as the weather is concerned, it will be as blissful as you get in winter. If you don’t have any problem with sky-high rates on accommodations, you can also visit in December or January.
Kaua’i
Do you seek a one-of-a-kind holiday experience? Are you looking for a beachside town that will make you forget all about your worries? Brilliant sunsets, aquamarine skies, and pristine beaches are what make Kaua’i a place like no other.
It is a famous honeymoon destination and a romantic gateway. No wonder it attracts honeymooners and couples from near and far. While in Kaua’i, you should book a boat tour. Also, pack an umbrella and your hiking boots as it has several amazing hiking trails.
When to travel
When can be the best time to go to the beach in Kaua’i? August, September, and October are the three best months to spend some relaxing time in Kaua’i.
April to June is when the weather is nice and the rates of hotels drop. Even if November-March is the rainy season, it doesn’t deter travel enthusiasts. If your budget is limited, go to this place in summer which is the shoulder season.
Myrtle Beach
Is there a beach where you’ll make treasured memories for a lifetime? The moment you reach Myrtle Beach, you will find inner peace.
With its beautifully decorated restaurants and exhilarating watersports opportunities – Myrtle Beach will instantly make you feel at home.
There are amusement parks, an aquarium, and beach-facing accommodations. It has a huge SkyWheel that offers the best panoramic views of the entire beach.
The restaurants serve a variety of cuisines to keep foodies satiated. The real beauty of the place lies in its rich culture and history.
No wonder 20 million people visit Myrtle Beach every year.
When is the best time to go to Myrtle beach
Even if people go there throughout the year, June to August is the peak time to lie on the beach or splash around.
It hosts many fun events in Summer like Carolina Country Music Festival and Summer Concert Series at the Boathouse.
Winter is the off-season with little crowds and low humidity. But you can participate in a plethora of shows like Myrtle Beach Christmas Shows and Thanksgiving Specials.
Laguna Beach
Situated halfway between San Diego and Los Angeles, Laguna Beach is known for its unique terrains. From tide pools to seaside bluffs to caves – you’ll find everything here.
Crescent Bay Beach and Main Beach are two fantastic shorelines in Laguna Beach for swimmers. Victoria Beach is a peaceful and calm place to chill with your bae. But for nature lovers, Heiser Park is a dreamy picnic spot that contains a walking path elevated above the picturesque beach.
If you are a surfer, you should head straight to Rockpile and Brooks Street.
Best time to visit Laguna Beach
You can spend a week in Laguna Beach between September and October or from April to May. Both the fall and the spring have fewer visitors, which will allow you plenty of opportunities to unwind with your paramour and click photos.
The peak season in Laguna Beach is summer as a majority of the annual festivals happen in summer. In winter, you will get hotels at discounted prices. But swimming won’t be an option as the water remains frigid.
Things to do to remain safe during your beach trip
In addition to knowing the best time to go to the beach, you must take care of the following factors:
- Nothing spoils a beach trip more than getting sunburnt on day 1. So, keep reapplying sunscreen, and don’t bathe for long hours during the day. Walking barefoot can burn your feet and give blisters, making it difficult for you to move around.
- You should opt for travel insurance along with medical coverage if you will participate in adventurous watersports.
- Part of the allure of swimming in the ocean is having the chance to see rare aquatic creatures. But remember to maintain distance as you don’t know which animal is dangerous. Seek immediate medical assistance if a jellyfish stings you.
- Before jumping into the water on a secluded beach, you must see the flags and signs, especially on lifeguard beaches. While yellow and red flags mean it’s safe for swimming, red flags indicate danger.
- Everyone fancies gazing at the waves with a beer bottle in hand. But if you don’t drink in moderation, alcohol can make you commit mistakes that might cost your life.
- You should be aware of your swimming abilities before getting into the water. Remember that it is nothing like swimming in a swimming pool as pools don’t have rip currents.
Final thoughts
So, now you have a list of so many stunning beaches that you’ll be spoilt for choices. Make sure you plan your trip keeping in mind the best time to go to the beach. Traveling in the off-season is cheap, but you’ll miss out on many opportunities if the weather is not favorable. This does not mean you have to travel in the peak season only and end up spending a fortune. With a little beach of research, you can have a fabulous budget trip and expect pleasant weather during your stay.
