The 10 Most Charming Seaside Towns In America You Should Visit With Your Family

Sandwiched between Earth's two largest oceans, the United States has some serious beaches. With 95,471 total miles of shoreline, according to NOAA, there are plenty of sunny beaches, both saltwater, and freshwater, to enjoy in the U.S.

Tourists from all over the world visit some of the country's famous beaches, but sometimes, you just need to avoid the massive crowds of bachelor parties and spring breakers, especially if you're traveling with a family. The good news is that there are endless quaint beach towns that line the coasts, perfect for your next family holiday.

10 Port Saint Lucie, Florida

Florida boasts some of America's best beaches, but you'll often find the more popular ones overrun by unruly tourists. However, Port Saint Lucie on Florida's Atlantic coast, seems to avoid all that.

Not only has it got serene beaches, but it's also a great place for outdoorsy families. Located near Paleo Hammock Preserve and Savanna Preserves State Park, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore when you're tired of lounging on the beach. And there's always the Port Saint Lucie Botanical Gardens or Sailfish Splash Waterpark for the kids.

9 Old Orchard Beach, Maine

In Maine, not only can you get some of the world's best lobster, but with about half the state bordering the ocean, you can also find some beautiful beach towns. Old Orchard Beach is the perfect getaway for both parents and kids.

It's got a beachfront amusement park, the only one in all of New England, where you can take in all the scenery from the top of its Ferris Wheel without having to venture far from the water. The Old Orchard Beach Pier has everything the adults could ask for, from restaurants and bars to live entertainment.

8 Rockaway Beach, Oregon

Set against the rugged Oregon coast, the tiny town of Rockaway Beach is one of the state's hidden gems. Whether you're visiting for the area's natural beauty and fantastic outdoor activities, or you're on a foodie trip, Rockaway Beach will catch your interest.

Walk along the tranquil coastline, or try kayaking or fishing on Lake Lytle. Or, if you happen to visit in winter during the off-season, you'll get to enjoy the fresh crab that the local fisherman harvest in December. If seafood isn't your thing, plan a visit to the Tillamook Creamery for fresh ice cream and cheese.

7 Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, coincidentally one of the country's most famous beach towns, somehow manages to retain its charming, family-friendly nature. It's got all the action-packed water activities, luxury golf courses, and amusement parks to keep everyone busy all day long.

The main beach town of the Grand Strand, a 60-mile stretch of beaches, Myrtle Beach checks off everything you could want on your next family beach trip. Along its main boardwalk, you'll find souvenir shops and restaurants, just steps from the famous Family Kingdom park.

6 Coronado, California

Coronado is the main resort town of San Diego Bay. Although not far from San Diego itself, many vacationers choose to stay in Coronado rather than the bustling city. It draws those with a bit of an adventurous spirit, famous for its surfing.

Stay at the Hotel de Coronado, the famous and picturesque Victorian resort set right on the beachfront, and if you're traveling with the family dog, the leash-free Coronado Dog Beach is the place to go. After hanging out on the miles-long stretches of warm sand, you could even day trip into San Diego for more adventures.

5 Tybee Island, Georgia

Tybee Island is one of the best family getaways in Georgia and is a favorite for those who live in nearby Savannah. Along with stretches of white sand beaches, Tybee Island is home to Fort Screven, which houses 19th-century gun batteries, Fort Pulaski National Monument, a Civil War landmark, and an 18th-century lighthouse.

But all of the histories don't detract from the peaceful beaches, and whether you lounge around North Beach or take a dip at South Beach, you'll never run out of pristine waterfront.

4 Corolla, North Carolina

If you've got kids who love horses (or if you're an equestrian/enne yourself), and you're not sure where to spend your next beach holiday, pack your bags and head to Corolla, North Carolina. Wild horses roam Corolla, Currituck, and Carova beaches, so you might catch them while sunbathing. Local companies also offer wild horses tours if you're looking for a guarantee to see them.

After soaking in the sun, soak in some local history at the Whalehead Club, a 1920s hunting retreat that's been completely restored and retains some authentic Art Nouveau designs.

3 Edmonds, Washington

Just a short trip from Seattle, Edmonds is a charming Pacific Northwest town of about 40,000 residents--enough to ensure a lively community, but without the chaos of the big city. Downtown Edmonds has all the boutique shopping you'll want to do, complete with cafes and restaurants when you need a break.

Sunsets on the beach are unmatched, and kids can skip stones while parents relax on the natural driftwood benches. The Olympic Mountains are even visible off in the distance to the west, and for even better views, try Stamm Overlook Park.

2 Empire, Michigan

Although not on the ocean, the town of Empire is at the edge of the mighty Lake Michigan, the second largest of the Great Lakes. The Lakes make up a huge part of American coastline, and those who don't want the dryness of seawater on their skin should give their beaches a shot.

The shores of Lake Michigan look very much like tropical waters at Empire that you might forget you're close to Canada. Empire has long, sandy beaches, and is close to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The area has many beautiful campgrounds if you're up for a bit of roughing it.

1 Kohala Coast, Hawaii

Hawaii--the dream beach trip for every family. Once you make the six-hour flight from Los Angeles, it's no more expensive than vacationing somewhere nearer to home. When traveling with a family, skip the honeymoon-ridden Oahu and Maui, and head to the Big Island.

Hawaii's Kohala Coast stretches along its northwest coast, which you can drive in a day, and is where you'll find some of the island's best resorts. The town of Hawi embodies the relaxed spirit of the islands, and Hapuna Beach State Park is home to long stretches of white sand beaches. If you can't make it on this year's trip, don't worry--the islands are getting bigger by the minute.

NEXT: 10 Of The Best Restaurants In NYC (According To TripAdvisor)