It’s no surprise that everyone wants to flock to the water when temperatures start to soar, and this summer is no different. If you’re wondering what the trending beach destinations are for 2023, HomeToGo, a marketplace for vacation rentals, reviewed its data and has identified 6 beach destinations in the U.S. that have skyrocketed in searches.
You’ll want to get on top of your summer plans soon because the booking site also noticed travelers are looking to start their trips even earlier. They found a 14% increase in search demand for stays between March and June, meaning this typical quieter season for travel is starting to gain momentum.
Check out the most popular U.S beach destinations for summer below:
Topsail Beach, North Carolina
- Search Demand Increase: +543%
- Median Nightly Price Per Person: $115.54
This island is located off the coast of southeastern North Carolina and is known for its consistent surf, making it a great option for surfers. It has a relaxed community atmosphere with plenty of access points to the beach, making it less crowded. In summer, the island hosts free movies in the park, as well as a monthly free concert series.
Whether you’re enjoying the expansive beaches, paddle boarding on the Intercoastal Waterway, or casting a reel from one of the piers, Topsail Beach offers plenty of activities to keep you occupied.
Avon, North Carolina
- Search Demand Increase: +274%
- Median Nightly Price Per Person: $140.39
Avon is another charming island town located in North Carolina and the center of Hatteras Island. It was once a popular boat-building village, thanks to the close proximity of cedar and live oak trees, which were used to build the boats in the Colonial days and after the Civil War.
You’ll find an abundance of fresh seafood to enjoy, or you can try catching your own from two of the main wooden fishing piers. From surfing, horseback riding, and kite flying, you’ll find many ways to experience this historic island.
Sandbridge, Virginia
- Search Demand Increase: +273%
- Median Nightly Price Per Person: $144.24
Located 15 miles south of Virginia Beach is a quieter beach option with fewer tourists. Sandbridge offers 5 miles of sand dunes and seaside grass in a secluded area, where people can enjoy typical beach activities like surfing and fishing on the piers. It’s been said that the sunrises and sunsets are the best on the East Coast, so you’ll want to bring your picnic blanket to watch the show.
If you have a passion for bird watching, venture to the National Wildlife Refuge, which provides a habitat for water birds and other threatened species.
Brewster, Massachusetts
- Search Demand Increase: +226%
- Median Nightly Price Per Person: $155.33
This quaint bayside town is located on Cape Cod and is less than 30 minutes from Hyannis airport. The town was settled in 1656, so you’ll find plenty of rich history to discover. Some of the historical attractions include its Cobb House Museum and Windmill Village, and the Cape Cod Museum of National History, which features a butterfly house.
The area also hosts the most extensive bike path on the peninsula, with 30 miles of path to explore, which is a fantastic way to take in the sights.
Sussex County, Delaware
- Search Demand Increase: +175%
- Median Nightly Price Per Person: $116.90
Sussex County offers a mix of beautiful and clean beaches, luscious state parks, and charming historical towns to get lost in. Each town has its own unique character, and you’ll enjoy strolling through the boutique shops and antique stalls. If you make a purchase, you’ll have an added bonus that your purchases will be tax-free. The area is also known for its old-fashioned boardwalks, which offer scenic points to admire the surrounding beaches.
Sea Isle City, New Jersey
- Search Demand Increase: +154%
- Median Nightly Price Per Person: $158.64
This small beach town prides itself on its friendly hospitality and offers plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. It features a large stretch of promenade along the oceanfront, where you’ll find a range of shops, arcades, restaurants, and rest stops.
One of the main attractions is the Townsends Inlet Waterfront Park, which is surrounded by natural beauty and a great location to watch the sunrise or sunset.
