4 Beaches to Visit on National Beach Day

There is no better place to be this summer than at the beach. Vacasa recently released a survey reporting beach destinations as the top choice for summer travelers this year. With Aug. 30 designated National Beach Day, now is the perfect time to plan a beach vacation. In case you are unsure where to start, here are some of the best beach destinations around the world:

Panama City Beach, Florida

Panama City Beach is best known for its more than 27 miles of white-sand beaches and emerald-green waters. Nestled along the shoreline, where the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrew’s Bay meet, beachgoers enjoy a variety of options for fun in the sun. St. Andrews State Park offers a slice of paradise, featuring beaches and plenty of options for outdoor adventures, including hiking, camping, snorkeling and more. Shell Island is an undeveloped 7-mile island of white sand and green waters, where you will find the highest concentration of bottlenose dolphins. Furry friends are welcome as part of the family at Doggie Beach, located across from Pier Park and west of City Pier. The 400-foot-long beach is open to dogs on leashes.

Seven Mile Beach, Negril, Jamaica

Known around the world as one of the most stunning Caribbean beach destinations, Seven Mile Beach in Negril, Jamaica, offers crystal-clear waters and white sand. The beach is by far the most famous in Jamaica thanks to calm waters, swaying palm trees and soft sand. At night, head to the beach bars for a bustling nightlife scene. For an unforgettable night make sure to stop by Margaritaville Negril, Miss Lily’s, Pushcart and Rick’s Cafe.

Avalon, New Jersey

The Jersey Shore is the place to be during summer. Come Memorial Day, New Jersey’s beach towns come alive as locals and those from surrounding towns and states head “down the shore.” Small but mighty, Avalon extends eastward 1 mile farther into the ocean than neighboring towns and is often referred to as being “Cooler by a Mile.” The town offers stunning beaches, gentle surf, fine shopping and elite restaurants. The peaceful community is filled with distinctive beach cottages and homes and hosts hundreds of brightly colored sailboats, sleek motorboats and comfortable yachts during the summer months.

Mississippi Coast

With white sugar-sand beaches, turquoise waters and an abundance of land and water activities, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the beach on Mississippi’s “Secret Coast.” From experiences like Mississippi Aquarium, Pascagoula’s Audobon Center, South Mississippi Eotours and the white-sand beaches of Gulf Island National Seashore, opportunities to explore the outdoors are at every corner. The towns lining the coast draw visitors with an eclectic blend of arts, distinctive events, quirky attractions and delicious restaurants.