Travel Inspiration: VRBO's Top Beach Towns

Ideas for those who love the trending beaches!

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30A, Florida

Best Time to Visit: April–May or September–October for warm weather without peak crowds.

Solo Vibe: Relaxed, coastal chic, with bike rides between colorful beach towns and plenty of friendly, walkable spots to explore solo.

Easiest Way to Get There: Fly into Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP), about 25–40 minutes away.

Highly Rated Place to Stay: The Pearl Hotel in Rosemary Beach – stylish, boutique, and right by the sand.

Known For: Scenic Highway 30A’s string of charming beach communities like Seaside and Rosemary Beach, white sand beaches, turquoise water, and a laid-back yet upscale feel.

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Wilmington, North Carolina

Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) for warm days and fewer crowds.

Solo Vibe: Southern charm meets beach life — perfect for strolling riverfront cafes by day and catching live music or sunset on the pier by night.

Easiest Way to Get There: Fly into Wilmington International Airport (ILM), just 10–15 minutes from downtown and nearby beaches.

Highly Rated Place to Stay: Blockade Runner Beach Resort at Wrightsville Beach – oceanfront, classic, and great service.

Known For: Riverwalk, historic downtown, Wrightsville Beach, and fresh seafood straight from the docks.

The Hamptons, New York

Best Time to Visit: Late June–September for the full summer scene, or September for a calmer, still-warm vibe.

Solo Vibe: Stylish, scenic, and perfect for people-watching — think art galleries, farmers’ markets, and relaxing beach days.

Easiest Way to Get There: From NYC, take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) or Hampton Jitney bus, or drive (~2–3 hours).

Highly Rated Place to Stay: Baron’s Cove in Sag Harbor – nautical charm with harbor views.

Known For: Sandy Atlantic beaches, celebrity spotting, quaint towns, and upscale dining.

 

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Best Time to Visit: March–May or September–October for mild temps and fewer crowds.

Solo Vibe: Peaceful and nature-filled, with miles of bike paths, kayaking routes, and quiet beaches — a great place to recharge.

Easiest Way to Get There: Fly into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) and drive about 45 minutes.

Highly Rated Place to Stay: The Inn & Club at Harbour Town – luxurious, with impeccable service and golf course views.

Known For: Wide sandy beaches, scenic bike trails, and golf courses surrounded by live oaks and Spanish moss.

San Diego, California

Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but September–October often offers the best beach weather with fewer tourists.

Solo Vibe: Energetic and sunny — perfect for exploring beach neighborhoods, catching waves, or enjoying a craft beer by the water.

Easiest Way to Get There: Fly into San Diego International Airport (SAN), minutes from downtown and beaches.

Highly Rated Place to Stay: Hotel del Coronado – historic beachfront icon with gorgeous ocean views.

Known For: Miles of Pacific coastline, perfect year-round weather, vibrant neighborhoods like La Jolla and Ocean Beach, and fish tacos galore.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Best Time to Visit: April–May or September–October for warm weather without summer crowds.

Solo Vibe: Friendly, casual, and a little retro — great for slow mornings, beach walks, and local seafood shacks.

Easiest Way to Get There: Fly into Pensacola International Airport (PNS) and drive about an hour.

Highly Rated Place to Stay: The Lodge at Gulf State Park – eco-friendly, beachfront, and beautifully designed.

Known For: Soft white sand, laid-back Gulf Coast charm, and fresh-caught seafood.

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