Best Summer Beach Destinations in Philadelphia, United States
1. Fox Park Beach
Located on the Delaware River, Fox Park offers a sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming. It's close to downtown Philadelphia, making it easily accessible.
- Urban Beach: One of the few beaches located in an urban setting
- Kayaking Opportunities: Adjacent to the Penn's Landing marina, offering kayak rentals
- Concert Venue Nearby: Near the Mann Center for the Performing Arts, where you can catch summer concerts
2. Pennsylvania Avenue Beach
This small beach on the Delaware River offers a peaceful retreat from the city. It's known for its stunning sunsets.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: A quieter and less crowded option compared to other beaches
- Sunset Viewing: Ideal spot for watching the sun set over the river
- Fishing Pier: Equipped with a fishing pier, perfect for anglers
3. Ocean Beach on the Atlantic City Boardwalk
Take a short trip to Atlantic City for its iconic boardwalk and sandy beach. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or try your luck at casinos.
- Boardwalk Experience: Famous Atlantic City Boardwalk with amusement rides, dining options, and shops
- Gambling Opportunities: Nearby world-class casinos for entertainment
- Diverse Accommodations: Accommodations range from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts
4. Bartram's Garden Beach
Located on the Schuylkill River, this beach is part of Bartram's Garden, a historic botanical garden. Enjoy swimming, picnicking, or exploring the gardens.
- Historic Garden Setting: Unique combination of beach and historical garden
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours of the beautiful gardens
- Nature Trails: Adjacent to nature trails for bird watching and wildlife spotting
5. Kelly Drive Beach
Nestled on the Schuylkill River, Kelly Drive Beach is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. It's close to Fairmount Park's attractions.
- Fairmount Park Access: Close proximity to other attractions in Fairmount Park
- Boat Rentals: Offers boat rentals for exploring the river
- Scenic Views: Beautiful views of the Boathouse Row and the city skyline
6. North Wildwood Beach
Head to North Wildwood for a classic Jersey Shore beach experience. With miles of sandy beaches and boardwalk, there's plenty to explore.
- Extensive Boardwalk: One of the longest boards in the world with amusement rides, dining options, and shops
- Dolphin Watching Tours: Opportunities for dolphin watching tours and boat rentals
- Affordable Accommodations: Wide range of budget-friendly accommodations, including beachfront hotels
7. Cape May Beach
Visit Cape May for a charming, historic beach town experience. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or exploring the lighthouse.
- Historic Town: Historic district with Victorian architecture and a lighthouse
- Bird Watching: Popular destination for bird watching, especially during migration seasons
- Diverse Dining Options: Wide variety of dining options, from casual beach eateries to fine dining restaurants
8. Stone Harbor Beach
Experience a peaceful and upscale beach town at Stone Harbor. Enjoy the pristine sandy beaches and the calm waters.
- Upscale Vibe: Known for its quiet, upscale atmosphere
- Nature Reserve Access: Access to the Richard Stockton College's Coastal Research Center and Wildlife Refuge
- Beachside Dining: Variety of beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood
9. Avalon Beach
Enjoy the beautiful beaches and charming downtown atmosphere in Avalon. It's perfect for families with its clean waters and easy access to amenities.
- Family-Friendly: Popular destination for families, offering calm waters and family-friendly amenities
- Beachside Cottages: Historic beach cottages lining the streets of Avalon's downtown area
- Boat Tours: Offers boat tours for dolphin watching and exploring the bay
10. Wildwood Beach
Take a trip to Wildwood for its lively boardwalk and sandy beaches. With numerous attractions and activities, it's perfect for families.
- Lively Atmosphere: Known for its vibrant, fun-filled atmosphere
- Amusement Parks: Home to Morey's Piers with numerous amusement park attractions
- Affordable Accommodations: Wide range of accommodations, including beachfront hotels and vacation rentals
11. Long Beach Island (LBI) Beach
Discover the pristine beaches and charming towns of Long Beach Island. With a variety of activities, it's perfect for couples and families.
- Diverse Towns: Home to several unique towns, each with its own charm
- Fishing Charters: Offers fishing charters for a fun day on the water
- Watersports Rentals: Provides watersport rentals, including jet skis and kayaks
12. Sea Isle City Beach
Experience the laid-back vibe of Sea Isle City. Enjoy the beaches, fishing pier, or take a stroll on the boardwalk.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Known for its laid-back, relaxed atmosphere
- Fishing Pier: Home to a popular fishing pier with stunning sunset views
- Beachside Dining: Variety of beachfront restaurants offering fresh seafood and casual dining options
13. Stone Harbor/Avalon Ferry Beach
Take a ferry from Cape May to this quiet beach in Stone Harbor or Avalon. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and pristine sand.
- Ferry Access: Accessible by ferry from Cape May, offering a unique transportation experience
- Pristine Sand: Known for its clean and pristine sandy beaches
- Peaceful Atmosphere: A quieter, less crowded option compared to other beach destinations
14. Ocean City Beach
Enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere at Ocean City. With wide beaches and numerous activities, it's perfect for a summer vacation.
- Family-Friendly: Popular destination for families with its calm waters and family-friendly amenities
- Boardwalk Entertainment: Boasts a lively boardwalk with amusement parks, shops, and dining options
- Beachside Rentals: Offers a wide variety of beach rentals, including chairs, umbrellas, and watersport equipment
15. Asbury Park Beach
Discover the vibrant, artsy atmosphere of Asbury Park. Enjoy the beach, boardwalk, or visit the historic music venues.
- Artsy Atmosphere: Known for its lively arts and music scene
- Boardwalk Entertainment: Boasts a revitalized boardwalk with amusement parks, shops, and dining options
- Historic Venues: Home to historic music venues like the Stone Pony and the Paramount Theatre