5 Best Family Beach Vacations in New England for a Memorable Summer

Especially with kids, piling into the car for every vacation outing can get exhausting. In Kennebunkport, this nightmare is eliminated altogether. Families can easily hop on bikes or walk through the town and to the beach. Because of its playground and tide pools, we especially love spending the day at Mother's Beach. Or if you seek calmer waters and white sand, hit Goose Rocks Beach. 

Later on, take in the beach from a different angle as you embark on a Rugosa Lobster Tour where the whole family can explore the world of lobster biology and fishing practices as they watch the ship’s crew haul lobster traps. If you prefer to keep your feet on land, catch a ride on the trolley through this historic town, pick seasonal berries at Patten’s Berry Farm, or snack on a lobster roll. When it comes to family activities to do in Kennebunkport, the options are as wide as the ocean. Even U.S. News ranked it one of the best family beach vacation spots. 

Whether you’re going for a rustic lodge vibe or prefer a boutique inn or waterfront resort, Kennebunkport has it all. Stay right along the sea.

No matter the weather, this historic town in Connecticut is bound to be your family’s playground. With the largest indoor archery range in all of New England, an iconic cartoon museum, and Niantic Children’s Museum, there are plenty of activities for kids of all ages. And these are just a few family activities to do in Old Saybrook! Stay right in town to ensure your family doesn’t miss out on any of the fun.

There’s a reason so many summer beach reads are set in Nantucket. This Massachusetts island south of Cape Cod is not only stunningly beautiful and full of New England charm, it also has a long list of fun, free, and family-friendly offerings. Start your day at Children’s Beach, a sandy stretch that has calm water, a playground, picnic areas, and free events (think evening concerts and kids’ yoga) almost daily. 

For an added bit of excitement, take to the sea on a Critter Cruise. In the afternoon, get the whole family’s brain juices flowing by heading over to the Whaling Museum or Maria Mitchell Aquarium. Finish out the day by exploring Brant Point Lighthouse or seeing Nantucket’s famous boat basin. 

On the topic of family activities to do in Nantucket, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that it also managed to snag a spot on U.S. News’ list of best family beach vacation locations. Stay steps away from the sand.

It may be the smallest of the New England states, but it’s far from lacking when it comes to family activities to do on Block Island. Make the trek down the stairs to Mohegan Bluffs to feel as though you’ve traveled to a remote tropical island without the hassle of the airport. 

Or, bring the family to Baby Beach where the water is calm and protected from wind. In the eyes of your kids, the highlight of this beach visit may be the short walk to the cash-only Ice Cream Place nearby. Smell the salt air right from your bedroom when you stay on Block Island. 

One of the most iconic Cape towns, enchanting Chatham is one of our favorites (especially when it comes to family activities to do in Chatham!) because you can hit the sprawling beaches and soak up the sun before exploring the main street, featuring cute shops and restaurants, just a short walk away. Or, you can even skip the beach and catch some rays at an Anglers baseball game. Take in the seaside views right from your room while staying in Chatham.