As an east coaster, I've visited and lived in many beautiful beach destinations along the East Coast. From experience, three of the most popular destinations along the East Coast for beach-goers are the Outer Banks, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach. Each location has its unique charm and attracts visitors for different reasons.
I'll compare and contrast these three beach destinations in this article based on my experience and research.
Outer Banks
Outer Banks, located along the coast of North Carolina, is a series of barrier islands that stretches along the coastline. It is known for its pristine beaches, wild horses, and lighthouses. Outer Banks is perfect for nature lovers who want to explore the great outdoors, go fishing, or relax on the beach.
The beaches in Outer Banks are wide and spacious, making them ideal for beach volleyball, frisbee, and picnics. The waters here are perfect for swimming, surfing, and kayaking, and plenty of rental shops are available for equipment.
In addition to the beaches, Outer Banks is home to several historic sites, such as the Wright Brothers National Memorial and the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
Hilton Head
Hilton Head is a beautiful island located in South Carolina. It is known for its stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and upscale resorts. The beaches here are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports. The island's 12-mile beachfront is lined with bike paths, making exploring the island on two wheels easy. Hilton Head is also a golfer's paradise, with more than 30 courses.
In addition to golf and beaches, Hilton Head is known for its shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. The island is home to several art galleries, museums, and theaters. In addition, the island offers nature reserves and wildlife refuges for nature lovers, such as the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Audubon Newhall Preserve.
Hilton Head is also home to several upscale resorts, such as The Sea Pines Resort and The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, which offer luxury accommodations and top-notch amenities.
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, located in South Carolina, is a popular family-friendly destination offering endless attractions and entertainment options. The beach stretches over 60 miles and offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports such as parasailing and jet skiing.
Myrtle Beach is also known for its amusement parks, such as Family Kingdom Amusement Park and Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, which offer a range of rides and attractions suitable for all ages. In addition, Myrtle Beach has several theaters for indoor entertainment, such as the Carolina Opry and the Alabama Theatre, which feature live music and comedy shows.
The city also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with several bars, clubs, and music venues.
Which destination is right for you?
Comparing the three destinations, Outer Banks is perfect for nature lovers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful beach vacation.
Hilton Head is ideal for those who wish to indulge in luxury and enjoy world-class golf courses.
On the other hand, Myrtle Beach is perfect for families who want to enjoy a fun-filled beach vacation with plenty of activities and entertainment options.
Regarding accommodations, all three destinations offer a range of options, from budget-friendly hotels to upscale resorts. However, the cost of accommodations may vary depending on the season and demand. Nevertheless, it's worth noting that Myrtle Beach tends to be more affordable than Hilton Head and Outer Banks.
Overall, each beach destination has its unique charm and caters to different types of travelers. It's up to you to decide which option suits your preferences and budget.
Hopefully, this article will help you decide where your next beach vacation will occur! In the comments section below, let us know which destination you prefer and why.
We'll see you out there.
