There’s a reason beaches are synonymous with vacations — from the warm temperatures, relaxing ocean views and plenty of aquatic adventures. It turns out there’s a scientific reason behind that. Studies show that a beach getaway can improve your mood, help you exercise, expose you to the sun’s much-needed vitamin D, lower your blood pressure and relieve stress.
Make time to vacation on the tropical shores you’ve been daydreaming about and enjoy the many benefits of a beach vacation. Here are seven beach destinations to add to your bucket list or inspire your next itinerary.
1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is considered one of the top family-friendly destinations in the United States, and it’s easy to see why. Whether enjoying 60 miles of soft, sandy beach or exploring nearby attractions, there’s something for everyone at the Grand Strand.
Stay at the center of the action at Myrtle Beach, relax along the quieter Atlantic Beach and Surfside Beach — the first autism-friendly travel destination in the world— or head to Garden City Beach for fishing and watersports.
Where to stay: You’re spoiled for choice in Myrtle Beach. Read one Hilton Grand Vacation Owner’s review of Ocean Enclave, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club. Or check out Anderson Ocean Club, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club and Ocean 22, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club along the Atlantic.
2. Bali, Indonesia
Visit Bali, a South East Asian paradise full of white sand beaches and other tropical attractions. Head to Pandawa Beach early to see the sun rise over crystal clear waters and see statues of the Pandavas and the Kunti goddess carved into the cliffs before this popular beach fills with tourists. Bring a book and umbrella to the tranquil Geger Beach. Promenade along Sanur Beach with easy access to rental bikes, restaurants and surfing courses. Gunung Payung Beach offers a secluded slice of paradise, but don’t let a short trek and some stairs deter you from visiting.
Insider tip: Some beaches charge entrance or parking fees, so make sure you have cash in your beach bag.
Where to stay: Book Hilton Bali Resort using Hilton Honors™ Points to access this oceanside property. Enjoy poolside views, tennis courts and easy access to nearby beaches like Sawangan Beach. Treat yourself to a yoga class on the beach offered by the resort.
3. Oahu, Hawaii
No list of beach destinations is complete without Hawaii. Oahu’s beaches are legendary, with over 100 miles of coastline and sandy shores to explore.
Waikiki Beach and Kuhio Beach are Oahu’s most iconic landmarks and the birthplaces of modern surfing. Surfers should also check out Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach for big waves and gorgeous views. Kailua Beach offers relaxed vibes, perfect for a sunset stroll. Check out local wildlife up close and snorkel at Electric Beach.
Plus, it’s easy to island hop from Oahu to Maui and the Big Island for even more tropical adventures.
Where to stay: Choose from six Hilton Grand Vacations properties in Waikiki. Read how one Hilton Grand Vacations Owner worked remotely while staying in paradise for more travel inspiration.
4. New York, New York
New York City is known for its iconic sights, Broadway shows and exceptional dining experiences. But did you know the Big Apple also has beaches?
Hitch a ride (or a train) to Rockaway Beach in Queens for an easy escape, with barbecuing areas, pickleball courts and playgrounds. Jacob Riis Park Beach is also accessible via public transit. For an off-the-beaten-path beach, bike to Fort Tilden, a former military site that overlooks New York Harbor.
Or take a day trip from NYC to visit nearby beach destinations, like Jones Beach on Long Island, home to six miles of beach and a concert venue for summertime shows.
Where to stay: Read our guide to Hilton Grand Vacations’ New York timeshare to pick the perfect property for your Big Apple stay.
5. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Further south of New York, Virginia Beach offers a quintessential beach experience. Add V.B. to your East Coast itinerary for a coastal stop a few hours away from Williamsburg and Washington, D.C.
Explore the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and take a selfie with the bronze sculpture of King Neptune. Or stroll along Sandbridge Beach and Croatan Beach for a more secluded hideaway.
Head to the Chesapeake Bay side of Virginia Beach and traverse Chic’s Beach and First Landing State Park for a change of scenery.
Where to stay: Check into Ocean Beach Club, a Hilton Vacation Club or Oceanaire, a Hilton Vacation Club and stay just steps from the beach.
6. Okinawa, Japan
For another peaceful beach experience, head to Okinawa, one of Japan’s five islands. Double up on your aquatic fun with a visit to Emerald Beach and Churaumi Aquarium. Then take a boat trip to Minnajima Island — also known as Croissant Island, for its shape — perfect for snorkeling.
On the west side of Okinawa is Sesoko Island, home to Sesoko Beach. Below the surface, you can dive in the Sesoko Labyrinth, a series of underwater crevasses, for a dazzling swim. If you prefer your adventures on land, enjoy stargazing thanks to Sesoko’s lack of light pollution.
Where to stay: Enjoy a secluded resort experience at The Beach Resort Sesoko, a Hilton Club. Relax and unwind on the powder white beach, crystal blue pools or full-service spa.
7. Daytona Beach, Florida
While there’s plenty to do in Daytona Beach, don’t forget to visit the World’s Most Famous Beach. Have some old-fashioned fun on Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier, including beachside eateries, an arcade and summer concerts at the bandshell. For an unforgettable experience, enjoy a horseback ride along the beach with Equestrian Adventures. Or head across the street from the beach to Daytona Lagoon for an afternoon of thrilling water slides.
Where to stay: Read how one Hilton Grand Vacations Owner used her HGV ClubPoints to book a last-minute stay at Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort for an unforgettable beach getaway for her and her partner.
Wherever you decide to vacation, Hilton Grand Vacations offers the flexibility to stay anywhere — whether it’s one of HGV’s well-appointed Suites or with Hilton’s portfolio of brands.
Read “One Hilton Grand Vacations Owner Busts A Few Timeshare Myths” and see why this flexibility is just one of HGV’s many benefits of timeshare.