If you’re dreaming of an East Coast family vacation, you have so many destinations to choose from. America’s eastern edge has scenic beaches, historical sites, wooded retreats, and unique outdoor adventures the whole family can enjoy.
That’s why we love East Coast family reunions. Whether your group enjoys relaxed quality time or endless activities (or a little bit of both), there’s a perfect spot for you. Read on to discover the best East Coast family vacations and the best places to stay for an unforgettable reunion.
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Table of Contents
Plan the Best East Coast Vacation for Your Family Reunion
1. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is the perfect place to plan a family reunion, especially during the summer months when wildflowers flourish and temperatures are mild.
Get active by biking, kayaking, hiking, swimming, or tidepooling. Drive or hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain in time for sunset. Favorite group activities also include boat tours or chauffeured scenic drives. All of this is surrounded by Maine’s unparalleled beauty and the magnificent shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean.
Where to Stay
Bar Harbor Inn is located just a short walk from the water near Acadia National Park. Spacious suites and a heated outdoor pool on eight acres make it perfect for families. Enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast along with two on-site restaurants and free parking for a decent price.
2. Boston, Massachusetts
We love vacationing in Boston. It’s one of the best family vacations in the U.S.! Like all of America’s big cities, there is so much to see and do. It’s also filled with historical sites, quaint streets, and intriguing architecture. Plus, Boston is incredibly walkable, making it a breeze to get around as a family.
Some of our favorite kid-friendly activities in Boston include walking through the parks and gardens, trying out delicious restaurants, and spending time on the Boston waterfront.
Where to Stay
The Newbury is a luxurious and historic hotel right by the Boston Public Garden. This five-star establishment offers large suites with living rooms and 24/7 room service for late-night snacks! Some of the best things for little kids to do in Boston, like the New England Aquarium, are nearby.
3. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Take in the charm and beauty of New England by planning your family reunion at Cape Cod. It offers one of the best family beach vacations you’ll ever have and offers summer fun for all ages.
Spend all day along the shoreline, explore the many museums and gardens, or even head to a drive-in movie. Take a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard via the ferry. Explore even more incredible beaches and cute towns like Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.
Get active by hiring bikes and cycling along the Shoreline Trail or Cape Cod Rail Trail. You can’t beat the fantastic seafood and local ice cream throughout Cape Cod after a day in the sun!
Where to Stay
Chatham Bars Inn has a fantastic beachfront location and fun onsite activities, like fishing, tennis, and biking. Everyone will love the zero-entry outdoor pool and sprawling lawn space. This 1914 main house and separate cottages offer lots of space for big families. It’s also in a prime location with a free shuttle to the Cape Cod National Seashore.
4. Lake George, New York
Plan your next family vacation at Lake George, NY. This scenic destination in New York’s Adirondacks is perfect for all ages. There’s a Six Flags here, along with multiple outlet malls.
However, you will find plenty of outdoor adventures too. Enjoy skiing in the winter and hiking in the warmer months. Plus, its waterfront location makes it perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Where to Stay
The Sagamore Resort is a historical property dating back to 1883 and is located on a beautiful private island. It has suites, standalone 2-bedroom condos, plus a 6-bedroom house rental. Perfect for larger groups! It’s fun any time of year, thanks to its indoor and outdoor pools, indoor rec center, lakefront location, and golf course.
5. Hudson Valley, New York
Hudson Valley is the perfect destination for families who want to enjoy quality time and make memories on the East Coast. This is where you’ll discover expansive retreats, tour historic mansions, and take in the beautiful scenery of the East Coast.
Take a family stroll over the Walkway Over the Hudson or take a river cruise together. Some of the valley’s cultural attractions include the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum and the Dia Beacon Museum.
Where to Stay
Mohonk Mountain House offers an all-inclusive stay in a stunning castle-like locale. Book a well-appointed hotel room with period decor, or plan an incredible family reunion at their onsite lodge.
Everyone will have the best time putting on the resort’s golf course, playing tennis, or skating on their ice rink. There is even an on-site kids club so adults can have some time to themselves!
6. Williamsburg, Virginia
If you’re looking for an immersive East Coast family vacation, you should check out Williamsburg, Virginia. When you think of this popular destination, you may just picture Colonial Williamsburg. It is a bucket list item for many families living in the United States, after all. But there are plenty of things to do beyond the living history site.
There’s a Busch Gardens and Water Country waterpark for fun summer days. The recreated Jamestown Settlement of 1607 is another great place to mix education and fun on your trip to Williamsburg!
Where to Stay
Kingsmill Resort is a spacious and serene setting for your Williamsburg family reunion. Enjoy the waterfront setting, multiple pools, a golf course, and tennis courts.
This sprawling resort offers four on-site restaurants for your family to choose from. The private cottages and houses are also ideal for large families. They even have washers/dryers if your kids go through all the clothes you packed!
7. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
We love Shenandoah National Park because it offers the chance to truly unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether your family likes fast-paced whitewater rafting or a slower scenic drive, everyone will have a great time here. Explore this forested destination and see waterfalls and wildlife.
One of the best ways to explore Shenandoah National Park is to travel the entire length of Skyline Drive. Your family can start a convoy and have your own mini road trip! Don’t miss the family-friendly Cave Hill Trail and the beautiful waterfalls of White Oak Canyon.
Where to Stay
Massanutten Resort is the ultimate destination for a family reunion. Kids will go bananas for the on-site candy shop, entertainment venues, and huge water slides in the family indoor pool area. The attached units allow groups of 12 people to stay together. Then check out the many outdoor activities like biking and golfing. There is even a seasonal ski resort for winter sports.
8. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Looking for the best family beaches for your East Coast vacation? Virginia Beach may be the perfect spot for you. Soak up the sun and saltwater along the 3-mile boardwalk complete with live music, outdoor dining, surfing, swimming, and shopping. Sandbridge Beach is a great alternative if you want a change of scenery.
Away from the busy boardwalk area, you’ll find coastal trails, multiple state parks, and scenic farmland. First Landing State Park is a must-visit for family hikes, as is the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
Where to Stay
This 5-bedroom Virginia Beach rental home has a private outdoor pool and is steps away from the beach. The great thing about staying in a short-term rental is that it sleeps 12 and you have multiple common areas to hang out. Just imagine cooking a huge BBQ on the patio or sipping coffee on the balcony.
9. Washington D.C.
There are so many great things to do with kids in Washington, D.C., and it’s one of our favorite East Coast vacations for families. Many museums and parks are completely free, and the city is filled with great restaurants and shopping.
Families can tour the White House, visit the International Spy Museum, or walk around and check out the many historic sites. All of the Smithsonian Institutes are great, but kids always love the National Air and Space Museum.
No trip to D.C. is complete without taking a forced perspective photo with your finger on top of the Washington Monument!
Where to Stay
Fairmont Washington, DC, Georgetown is a spacious, kid-friendly resort with upscale accommodations. The Italian marble bathrooms feel high-end and the indoor saltwater pool is perfect for those muggy D.C. summer days. The continental breakfast is super kid-friendly. Plus, its fantastic location in Georgetown will put you close to great shopping and sightseeing in the city center.
10. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Rehoboth Beach is one of the best places to visit along the East Coast and it’s Delaware’s most popular destination. It has serene New England coastal charm but also offers entertainment for all ages, like amusement parks, boat excursions, an immersive boardwalk, and great breweries and restaurants.
Spend the day cooling off at Jungle Jim’s Water Park. Or, once you’ve ridden every ride at Funland, venture out to Cape Henlopen State Park. Pack a picnic and explore the old military bunkers there.
Where to Stay
Your entire family will be comfortable and welcomed at The Bellmoor Inn & Spa, which offers complimentary breakfast, multiple pools, meeting spaces for a large group, and a great location. It’s phenomenal value for money! Some cottages and one pool are adults-only so bear that in mind when you book. Opt for the 3-bedroom Bell House to keep the whole family together.
11. Poconos, Pennsylvania
The Poconos Mountains region is perfect for year-round outdoor fun. There are multiple ski resorts for winter vacationers, while the warmer weather is excellent for water sports, waterfall hikes, and exploring the small towns that make the area so charming.
Pushkill Falls is known locally as “the Niagara Falls of Pennsylvania” so you can’t miss seeing those! Explore 70,000 acres of hiking trails at the Delaware Water Gap and enjoy antiquing too.
Where to Stay
Woodloch Pines Resort is like a summer camp for the entire family. Spending time together during your reunion is easy thanks to their organized activities. Bumper cars, hayrides, archery, and waterskiing are just some of the fun things you can do as a family at Woodloch!
It’s completely all-inclusive so you never have to worry about picking restaurants for dinner. Some houses have kitchens which is ideal for families with young kids or those with allergies.
12. Outer Banks, North Carolina
Outer Banks, North Carolina, feels remote and rustic, but it’s also a fun place for an East Coast family reunion. With golf courses, horseback riding, expansive parks, and fun ocean activities, Outer Banks (OBX) is a fantastic destination for your entire family.
Did you know that the Wright Brothers National Memorial is in Outer Banks? Learn all about the first successful flight right here! Cape Hatteras National Seashore has a beautiful lighthouse, or visit Jockey’s Ridge State Park. This area has some of the East Coast’s largest dunes and it’s a great place to try sandboarding!
Where to Stay
Check out this Outer Banks family reunion house. It is everything you imagine when you picture an East Coast beachfront mansion. It sleeps over 18 people with seven bedrooms and seven bathrooms. An on-site private pool, hot tub, games room, and beach access are all you need to entertain at your big family reunion.
13. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga is such a fun place to bring your family, and it’s an easy weekend trip if you live in the Southeast. You’ll have no problem finding things to do in Chattanooga with kids. This outdoorsy town offers train rides, a large aquarium, scenic parks, a range of hiking trails, and trendy restaurants.
The Incline Railway is a great way to see the view from the top of Lookout Mountain. (It has that name for a reason!) Ruby Falls is accessible from the mountain too. Head to Chattanooga Zoo or Tennessee Aquarium if you have kids obsessed with animals.
Where to Stay
The Read House Hotel is an elegant historic property in the heart of downtown. It has easy access to shopping, restaurants, and attractions. The property is outfitted with contemporary furnishings, allowing your family to enjoy the best of the city with comfort and convenience. You can enjoy dinners at their onsite chophouse in the evenings; perfect for family dinners!
14. Kiawah, South Carolina
Kiawah Island is a beautiful beach destination near Charleston, South Carolina. It serves primarily as a private beach and golf resort. Five golf courses lay across the barrier island including the championship course Sanctuary Golf Club.
You don’t have to be a golf enthusiast to have a great family reunion in Kiawah! There are swimming pools, shopping, and historic sites. Much of the island is a nature preserve boasting over 30 miles of scenic bike trails. Check out Night Heron Park for wildlife watching and book family kayaking tours of the Kiawah River.
Where to Stay
Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a dreamy five-star luxury resort fit for celebrating important family milestones! Many suites have whirlpool tubs and 24/7 room service is a welcome bonus. This oceanfront hotel boasts upmarket villas, private homes, and cottages on the property, allowing your family to stay together during your East Coast family reunion vacation.
15. Bluffton, South Carolina
Bluffton is an excellent place to take in the unique beauty and culture of the southern Lowcountry. Located between Hilton Head Island and Savannah, this charming town is teeming with history, nature, and beauty.
Explore the marshlands, learn about Gullah Geechee culture, take in the local arts scene in Oldtown Bluffton, or relax in the serene atmosphere.
If you’re a group of mostly adventurous eaters, check out The Bluffton Oyster Company. Learn about the local oyster industry and enjoy fresh seafood with views of the water.
Where to Stay
Montage Palmetto Bluff is a five-star resort in Bluffton and every bit the idyllic Southern mansion. This 20,000-acre property is right on the Atlantic Ocean and offers southern-style cottages alongside suites in the main house. There is a spa, multiple dining options, a golf course, and tons of activity gear rentals. Fishing, anyone?
16. St. Simons, Georgia
Georgia’s Golden Isles make a great destination for an East Coast family vacation, and we especially love St. Simons for its relaxed vibes and natural beauty. Spend time exploring the island’s quaint villages and museums, tour the marshlands, have a beach day, or head out on a boat to spot dolphins.
Climb to the top of St. Simons Island Lighthouse for epic views across the water. Stroll through the Jekyll Island Historic District or step back in time at the Fort Frederica National Monument.
Where to Stay
This St. Simons rental home is a beautiful beach house that sleeps up to 17 people family members. Spend every evening relaxing in the heated private pool or sipping a cold drink in the secluded courtyard. With the coastline steps away from this short-term rental, every day can be a beach day on your family vacation!
17. St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine has a little something for everyone, so it’s a wonderful choice for a family reunion. A trolley tour will show you the historic town, or sea-dwellers can explore the scenic waters by boat. There is also a good amount of nightlife and restaurants for lively family members, and, of course, beaches for everyone to kick back and enjoy quality time.
St. George Street, in particular, is a great place to find family-friendly restaurants. Take the kids to see exotic animals at the Alligator Farm Zoological Park or back in time at Castillo de San Marcos. It’s a historic fort with stunning ocean views.
Where to Stay
Casa Monica Resort & Spa is a charming hotel in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district. It’s a fun Moroccan-themed resort dating back to 1888 with an amazing spa. There are some spacious elegant rooms offering hot tubs, balconies, and a wet room. Enjoy the outdoor rooftop pool and sundeck for your afternoon siesta.
18. Rosemary Beach, Florida
Rosemary Beach is such a fun place to vacation. The planned community is absolutely pristine, but it still holds a lot of charm the entire family will love. Spend the day at the beach, explore the nature trails, visit a community pool, shop and dine through town, or travel just east to Destin to find even more family fun.
Head to the Rosemary Beach Butterfly Garden if you need a chill afternoon. Rent bikes and ride along the Scenic 30A cycling route for beautiful views of the coast.
Where to Stay
The Pearl Hotel is undoubtedly the best resort in the area for family reunions. This upscale artsy hotel has large, bright rooms with rainfall showers and some have balconies. There’s an on-site restaurant, a rooftop lounge, a spa, and an outdoor pool. It couldn’t be in a better location for exploring the town and the beach. The Pearl Hotel offers direct beach access.
19. Orlando, Florida
Of course, your family will have a blast in Orlando! This is the mecca of several theme parks including Disney World and Universal Studios. Check out smaller amusement parks like ICON Park or Gatorland if it’s your second or third visit.
But there’s more to do beyond these bucket-list attractions. Your family trip to Orlando could include airboat tours, shopping, and unique museums. Orlando Science Center has a cool planetarium and the Kennedy Space Center is just a one-hour drive away.
Where to Stay
Evermore Orlando Resort is a brand new resort complex with a 20-acre beach and 8-acre lagoon (making Orlando a beach destination!) while offering houses that comfortably fit up to 32 guests. Amenities include craft classes for kids, poolside cabanas, pickleball, indoor and outdoor games, golf, and 12 different dining options.
20. Florida Keys, Florida
The Florida Keys may seem like a world away, but these tropical islands are located at the very southern tip of Florida. We promise it’s worth the trip to have an unbeatable family reunion in such a beautiful locale. Nobody will get bored here!
Enjoy the miles of coastline and all the fun it offers. Snorkeling in the coral reefs of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo is a highlight. Boating, swimming, and fishing are other fun water activities.
Plus, there are great restaurants and breweries throughout the area. Don’t forget to take family photos at the Southernmost Point in the Continental United States in Key West!
Where to Stay
Eden House is the oldest operating hotel in Key West, Florida, and is a great option for a family reunion. The recently renovated boutique hotel has a full range of accommodations, from apartment suites to semi-private rooms, and everything in between. There is an award-winning, on-site restaurant, a heated pool and hot tub, and many cultural experiences for guests. Eden House is within walking distance of Duval Street and many other famous Key West attractions.
21. Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Florida
Sanibel and Captiva are a pair of barrier islands that are ideal for a relaxed, slow-paced family reunion. Captiva has a charming village and beautiful beaches, and there are some shopping and activities in Sanibel.
Hop on a boat with Captiva Cruises to explore nearby islands and hopefully spot dolphins! Bowman’s Beach boasts an incredible seashell collection; see who can find the most unique shells here. You’ll love a distraction-free getaway with your family.
Where to Stay
‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa has cottage rentals perfect for a family reunion. The rooms are large and modern but won’t break the bank. The resort also boasts multiple pools, kayak rentals, and its very own manatee cove.
Captiva House, the resort’s on-site restaurant, serves fresh seafood with waterfront views, perfect for family dinners. Guests can enjoy biking, fishing, and paddleboarding along the beautiful coastline.
Start Planning Your Perfect East Coast Family Vacation
We hope this list of the best East Coast vacations for families helps you plan an unforgettable trip together. Whether you’re looking for beach breaks, outdoor adventures, or historic charm, the East Coast has something for everyone. From theme parks to scenic national parks, these destinations offer endless opportunities for family fun.