Beach with "beach town" type atmosphere in driving distance

[Anonymous]

We're looking for a beach within driving distance (Maine to Georgia) that has nice beaches along with some shopping. Looking for more of a "beach town" kind of vibe than strip malls. It's for this summer.

We are a family of 4 with a 15 yo girl and 12 yo boy and have a budget of about $2,500 for the week.

We are not interested in Bethany or Rehoboth or OBX. We've enjoyed Hilton Head in the past but are looking for something new (and HH doesn't have that beach town feel that we're looking for this year.) We are not into camping and would prefer a nice condo/house or resort.

I feel like our money will go further in the south in August as the kids go back to school then and prices are less, but I'm totally open to all areas in driving distance.

TIA for your suggestions!

[Anonymous]

Stay on Oak Island on the beach and shop in Southport, NC. You can take the ferry to the Fort Fisher Aquarium too.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Stay on Oak Island on the beach and shop in Southport, NC. You can take the ferry to the Fort Fisher Aquarium too.

Thanks PP! I never heard of Oak Island.

[Anonymous]

Avalon and Stone Harbor has what you are looking for.

[Anonymous]

If you will drive as far as Maine, go to Martha's Vineyard. It is idyllic and lovely. Lots to do and see and the water is at its warmest in Maine. It is not cheap though.

[Anonymous]

Chatham or Brewster on Cape Cod

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Avalon and Stone Harbor has what you are looking for.

I was coming here to post the same. We prefer Stone Harbor ourselves.

[Anonymous]

I love Brewster but it doesn't really have a shopping area - just some random shops that aren't always right next to each other. Maybe Chatham on the Cape?

[Anonymous]

Cape Charles VA has a small town/beach town feel, beautiful beachfront homes, and would easily fit your budget.

[Anonymous]

Wrightsville Beach, NC.
There are also little beach towns on the southern coast of NC.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I love Brewster but it doesn't really have a shopping area - just some random shops that aren't always right next to each other. Maybe Chatham on the Cape?

+1

Or MV. Or East Hampton.

[Anonymous]

St. Simons Island Georgia.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Avalon and Stone Harbor has what you are looking for.

I was coming here to post the same. We prefer Stone Harbor ourselves.

Also, Ocean City, New Jersey if you want an old fashioned boardwalk experience.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:St. Simons Island Georgia.

PP - Thanks for your recommendation! Anything you call tell me about St. Simons?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Avalon and Stone Harbor has what you are looking for.

I was coming here to post the same. We prefer Stone Harbor ourselves.

+1