Great Beaches Along the East Coast: A Beginner's Guide

I've had the good fortune over the years to visit some terrific beaches along the East Coast; each one is unique, offering different amenities, different scenery, and different accommodation options. Of course you can swim and take part in most other water-related activities at virtually all of these places, but their descriptions vary immensely and beachcombers may want to choose a beach that reflects specific vacation plans.

The Beauty of Wildwood

Wildwood, New Jersey, is home to a fantastic boardwalk. Though it's not located directly on the water (tourists drive up to the elevated shopping section) there is so much to see and do that it's like a little town in itself. While walking the beautiful boardwalk you'll find restaurants and all kinds of specialty stores to suit any shopper's fancy.

Unfortunately there is a time table; for those visiting between March/April and early October you can walk the boardwalk whenever you like, but many of the months only allow visitors on the weekend. Check ahead to avoid disappointment.

Hopefully you'll be lucky enough to be there when a special event is happening (when I visited in 1996, I saw not only a famous monster truck, Gravedigger, on the beach, but also witnessed a parade on the boards.) Check Wildwood's visitor information to see when any special events will be occurring.

Wildwood is also famous for its collection of rides for all ages. Don't miss the ferris wheel and coasters that soar from the pier. This is an especially good thing for families with children who aren't into the whole 'sand and sun' routine and actually want something to do to pass the time.

Victorian Fun

While visiting Wildwood, trek out to the little place once known as Anglesea to find the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse. This is a beautiful Victorian lighthouse that looks a lot more like a house than the typical vision of an East Coast lighthouse. Walk the narrow iron steps to the top and look out over the ocean. Outside Hereford are walking paths, beautiful flowers, and a stunning mini-cliff with markers along the way.