From cozy coastal towns to lively boardwalks, the East Coast has beaches for every occasion. Birthday celebration? Check. Quick day trip to re-connect with your girlfriends? Check. A summer family trip to the beach? Absolutely! During my 10 years of living in NY, going to the beach was my favorite activity. Luckily, there are many great beach destinations on the East Coast. Here are some of my favorites.

Unique East Coast Beaches:

Best Beaches in Georgia: Tybee Island - 20 minutes from Savannah

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Best Beaches in Georgia: Tybee Island - 20 minutes from Savannah - I escaped to Tybee Island after touring nearby Savannah.                                    

Best Beaches in Rhode Island: Newport - 1.5 hours from Boston

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Best Beaches in Rhode Island: Newport - 1.5 hours from Boston - Sail along the coast and explore cliffside paths on a romantic trip.                                    

Best Beach in New Jersey: Ocean City - 1.5 hours from Philadelphia

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Best Beach in New Jersey: Ocean City - 1.5 hours from Philadelphia - I biked on the boardwalk. I found it hard to leave at the end of a perfect day.                                    

Easiest Beaches to Get to in Massachusetts: Cape Cod

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Easiest Beaches to Get to in Massachusetts: Cape Cod - Explore quaint beach towns and relax on sandy shores during summer.                                    

Most activities for the whole family: Virginia Beach - 3.5 hours from DC

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Most activities for the whole family: Virginia Beach - 3.5 hours from DC - Visit family-friendly attractions and splash in the waves with kids. I found nonstop fun for all ages at Virginia Beach.                                    

Most secluded beach near New York City: Montauk - 3 hours from NYC

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Most secluded beach near New York City: Montauk - 3 hours from NYC - Watch the sunrise and explore quiet trails on a quick escape. I always found it easy to unplug in Montauk.                                    

Best beaches in Delaware: Rehoboth Beach - 2.5 hours from DC

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Best beaches in Delaware: Rehoboth Beach - 2.5 hours from DC - Shop along the boardwalk and swim.                                    

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)