Best Beach Towns for Celebrating Fourth of July in 2024

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Ferris wheel on Myrtle Beach lit up at night — John Coletti / Getty Images

South Carolina's Grand Strand has something for every type of traveler, whether you prefer shopping, amusement park rides, fishing, or world-class golf. On Independence Day, patriotic festivities take over this 60-mile stretch of coast centered on Myrtle Beach — from parades of patriotic golf carts in Surfside Beach to fireworks displays over Cherry Grove Pier, Lake Broadway, and Barefoot Landing. More pyrotechnics and parties happen throughout the region, so you're sure to find an event to suit your taste.

Stay in the middle of all the action at the oceanfront Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes. When you're not out celebrating, unwind at one of the resort's two pools or in the plush on-site spa, imbibe at any of its four restaurants, or squeeze in a workout at the fitness center.

02 of 18

Edgartown, Massachusetts

Fireworks over Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts — Courtesy of Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce

Martha’s Vineyard, an island off the southern coast of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, provides the quintessential New England Fourth of July experience. Head to Edgartown, which holds an annual parade through downtown followed by fireworks over the harbor. And don't even think about leaving without tasting a lobster roll, some clam chowder, or at least an oyster.

Base yourself at any of the five boutique properties that make up Lark Hotels’ Edgartown Collection — The Coco, The Sydney, The Richard, The Christopher, or The Edgartown Inn. Each hotel offers a different look and feel. The Sydney features more of a contemporary design, while The Christopher has more of a laid-back coastal vibe. Nearby, The Edgartown Inn draws its inspiration from the island’s gardens and farms. The Richard’s theme is more regal, while The Coco incorporates the adventurous spirit of the original owners, a sea captain and his wife.

03 of 18

Virginia Beach, Virginia

July Fourth Fireworks over Virginia Beach — Courtesy of Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau

Virginia Beach is an especially patriotic spot on the Fourth of July. The city's Stars & Stripes Celebration features concerts at several outdoor venues along the oceanfront and, of course, an epic fireworks display.

Leave time for a relaxing stroll up and down the famous boardwalk — if you don’t take a photo with the giant King Neptune statue, were you even there? History buffs can also check out the nearby Military Aviation Museum, which houses more than 50 aircraft from World War I and World War II. If you're traveling with kids, the recently renovated Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is sure to impress visitors of all ages.

04 of 18

Huntington Beach, California

Men in kilts performing in Huntington Beach July Fourth Parade — Tara Ziemba / Getty Images

Known as “Surf City, U.S.A.,” Huntington Beach in Southern California has made a name for itself as a major center for the sport. Its famous pier juts out 1,850 feet over the beach and into the Pacific Ocean, and hosts a fireworks display each Fourth of July. The celebration also includes a fun run, a parade, and plenty of special deals and events at local restaurants.

We recommend staying at the Kimpton Shorebreak Resort for its ideal location across the street from the Huntington Beach Pier. It’s also just a few blocks from Main Street, the International Surf Museum, the Official Surfer’s Hall of Fame, and the Huntington Beach Surf School — all worth a look.

05 of 18

Key West, Florida

People measuring a pie at the Key Lime Festival — Rob O'Neal / Florida Keys News Bureau / HO

Though just 5.6 square miles, Key West has plenty to offer, from bike riding and snorkeling to fine dining and more casual fare at places like Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville. And while being landlocked on Duval Street with a key-lime margarita sounds delightful, the best way to experience the Fourth of July in Key West may be by boat. Fury, an area charter company, offers a fireworks cruise aboard a catamaran. While in town, don't miss the sugar-filled Key Lime Festival, which also takes place over the holiday weekend.

Spend all day celebrating alongside the locals before retreating to your fortress of solitude at Sunset Key Cottages, located just 500 yards from Key West on a 27-acre private island. It’s the best of both worlds, with 40 tropical-style abodes to choose from, complimentary breakfast baskets delivered each morning, and access to a swimming pool, private beach, tennis and volleyball courts, a fitness center, and a swanky on-site spa.

06 of 18

Monterey, California

Crowd gathered on lawn for July Fourth festival in Monterey — Courtesy of City of Monterey

On the coast of central California, Monterey holds an Independence Day parade each year. Grab a spot early for the best view of the patriotic floats and costume-clad performers. Afterward, enjoy barbecue and live music on the Colton Hall Lawn, or a free classical music concert at Old Fisherman's Wharf.

Before you head home, visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which showcases over 80,000 plants and animals across 200-plus exhibits. You can also see elephant seals, sea lions, and sea otters as they play in the waters and lounge on the rocks near Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row, and Lovers Point, among other harborside spots.

07 of 18

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City Beach Boardwalk at sunset — rypson / Getty Images

Ocean City is a top-tier destination for families, known for its colorful boardwalk featuring the nostalgic Trimper Rides amusement park and its 1912 carousel, still in operation. Every Fourth of July, the city puts on live concerts and fireworks displays at two locations: right on the beach at North Division Street and at Northside Park.

The Aloft Ocean City makes a great base for exploring the area, with two pools (indoor and outdoor), a funky bar and lounge, a nifty grab-and-go eatery, and plenty of bay views. You'll also be within a 10-minute drive of the famous boardwalk, and just a short walk from some of Ocean City's best bars and restaurants.

08 of 18

Gulf Shores, Alabama

In Gulf Shores, one of the most underrated beach towns in the U.S., West Beach is among Alabama's finest, with its white sand and quiet ambience. Spanning about six miles, it's an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle. After spending a relaxing Independence Day on the sand, hop in the car and drive a few minutes to the Gulf State Park Pier for a free fireworks display.

Just a five-minute drive from West Beach, The Lodge at Gulf State Park lets you stay amid the 6,150-acre recreational area. Those hoping to be active on vacation can use the property’s bikes free of charge to explore the area’s 28 miles of cycling (and hiking) trails. Otherwise, unwind by the infinity pool, read a book on the beach, or learn more about the area’s flora and fauna at the nearby Nature Center.

09 of 18

South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island is home to 34 miles of beaches and dunes near the southernmost tip of Texas. Here, thrill seekers can enjoy the excellent windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sand surfing available up and down the coastline. If wind sports aren’t your thing, stick to tamer activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. Each year, July Fourth is celebrated with a beach parade and a fireworks display over Laguna Madre.

If you've had enough beach time, venture over the causeway to the Port Isabel Lighthouse for a self-guided tour of the historic site, constructed in 1852. Hike up the 75 steps to the top, where you'll be rewarded for your efforts with incredible views of the surrounding area.

10 of 18

Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Sun setting over Old Orchard Beach in Maine — cfwphotography / Getty Images

Old Orchard Beach, about a 30-minute drive south of Portland, Maine, is home to three miles of oceanfront, an amusement park, and a historic pier that hearkens back to days gone by. This tiny New England town's annual Independence Day celebration dates from 1950. Floats and local performers parade through the village of Ocean Park from the Bell Tower. Then, there's a free concert at the Bandstand, followed by a fireworks display near the pier later that night.

Festivities aside, there’s plenty to do in Old Orchard Beach, whether you’re into parasailing, fishing, or lounging on the seven-mile stretch of sand. Famous names like Frank Sinatra, Charles Lindbergh, and Stephen King have vacationed here since the first iteration of its pier debuted in 1898. Grab some seafood at one of the beachside lobster shacks before heading to Palace Playland, which has been operating since 1902, for amusement park rides and vintage arcade games.

11 of 18

Miami Beach, Florida

Miami lifeguard station painted like an American flag — Patricia Hamilton / Getty Images

While the Fourth of July in Miami Beach may look like it's all about festive cocktails and yacht parties, you'll also find family-friendly options for celebrating. Ring in America's birthday with live music, a roller disco, food trucks, kids' activities, and fireworks at Fire on the Fourth. The action lasts all day in and around the Miami Beach Bandshell.

One of the best hotels in Miami Beach, the Faena offers a stylish escape to the land of luxury, complete with white-glove service, a butler for every floor, and a gorgeous design that combines art deco with Hollywood glamour. Don't pass up the chance to see a cabaret show at the hotel's on-site theater.

12 of 18

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Family walking to the beach in Nantucket — Tim Clayton / Corbis / Getty Images

Nantucket is one of the best all-American beach towns out there, which makes it a great July Fourth destination. Here, you'll find pristine beaches, delicious seafood, and Independence Day happenings morning, noon, and night. The fun starts on Main Street — including, in the past, pie-eating contests, puppet shows, and games — then moves to the waterfront, where fireworks illuminate the sky over Jetties Beach in the evening.

Situated just a few minutes from downtown, the White Elephant Nantucket impresses with luxury amenities like complimentary BMW rides within a mile, artisan-crafted furniture and decor by Arhaus, and pre-arrival concierge services to make sure your trip starts off right. The classic waterfront resort also boasts an on-site deli serving up lobster rolls and a chic spa,

13 of 18

St. Simons Island, Georgia

Woman pulling cart onto St. Simons Island beach — Marc Romanelli / Getty Images

Since 1955, St. Simons Island, Georgia, has celebrated the Fourth of July with the Sunshine Festival, a family-friendly event that usually involves a craft show and fun run. It all takes place at Pier Village, St. Simons' colorful downtown strip, about two miles from where everyone will presumably spend the morning sunning on East Beach. Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket or beach chairs to set up at Neptune Park for the fireworks show that night.

About a 20-minute drive from the heart of St. Simons Island, The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island offers a chance to relax under the live oaks and appreciate the natural scenery around you. Whether you choose a room in the 1917 hunting lodge or a rustic cabin, you can take advantage of amenities like the on-site saltwater pool and complimentary use of binoculars, kayaks, and bicycles to help you explore the island. The all-inclusive rate also covers three meals per day and hiking and kayaking excursions led by naturalists.

14 of 18

Montauk, New York

Path leading to Montauk lighthouse at sunset — Courtesy of DIscover Long Island

Montauk is the best place to visit in the Hamptons on the Fourth of July without dealing with massive crowds. That said, it will certainly be buzzing with activity. The tiny town at the end of Long Island offers plenty of fantastic dining, shopping, nightlife, and gorgeous coastal vistas. Each year, the Stars Over Montauk Grucci Fireworks Display takes place at Kirk Park Beach (also known as Umbrella Beach).

After a big day and night of celebrating, retreat to Marram, a chic beachfront hotel offering everything from evening bonfires and surfing lessons to yoga and meditation classes. The laid-back Montauk property lets you stay close to the popular party scene while relaxing to the fullest and being mindful of your health and wellness.

15 of 18

Long Branch, New Jersey

Hotels along Long Branch Beach during golden hour — DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images

Oceanfest bills itself as "the biggest seasonal event on the Jersey Shore," and for good reason. Each year, thousands flock to Long Branch on July Fourth for live music, food vendors, street performances, craft stalls, and, of course, fireworks. The all-day festival has something for everyone, from extreme sandcastle sculptures to gourmet bites, right along the beachfront.

Stay at the Wave Resort, a beachfront boutique property close to the popular shops and restaurants at Pier Village. Get pampered with a relaxing treatment at the on-site spa, catch some rays at the oceanfront pool and deck, join a yoga or painting class, or take a complimentary cruiser bike for a spin — if you can bring yourself to leave the beach, that is.

16 of 18

Rockaway Beach, Oregon

Two chairs looking out at Rockaway Beach's rock formations — Michael Interisano / Design Pics / Getty Images

On Oregon's northern coast, about an hour-and-40-minute drive from Portland, Rockaway Beach holds an annual Fourth of July celebration. Past events have included a parade, a dachshund race, and a National Guard flyover. The fun takes place all over town, from the Lions Club and Phyllis Baker City Park to the Ocean’s Edge Wayside, where the fireworks are set off in the evening.

In between the festivities, go for a stroll along the beach and check out the tide pools. Keep your eyes peeled for migrating gray whales, which can be seen all year long as they travel between Alaska and Mexico. Bird-watching, fishing, and kite flying are also popular activities, as is photographing the Twin Rocks formation, a geologic wonder just off the coast.

17 of 18

Panama City Beach, Florida

Fireworks display at Panama City Beach — Big B Photography / Getty Images

Panama City Beach claims to put on the largest Fourth of July fireworks display on the Gulf Coast. There are multiple chances to see it, as the town typically offers a few nights of fireworks around the Fourth. Spectators have a few options to view them, whether from a snazzy resort while sipping a cocktail or barefoot with your toes in the sand. And there's certainly enough space for everyone, considering Panama City Beach comprises nine miles of beautiful Florida coastline.

While you're there, explore the calm Gulf waters via paddleboard, kayak, or Jet Ski. Panama City Beach is also known for scuba diving due to the abundance of sunken ships and artificial reefs just off the coast. Keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins and other wildlife, especially if you’re out on a deep-sea fishing excursion. The Shipwreck Island water park and the area's plentiful miniature golf courses are a sure hit with kids and the young at heart.

18 of 18

Fire Island Pines, New York

Drag queen holding a pride flag — Portra / Getty Images

If you're looking for pure camp on an otherwise tradition-heavy holiday, look no further than Fire Island Pines. Located just off the southern shore of Long Island, this little hamlet remains an LGBTQ+-centric destination year-round. That said, when the Fourth of July rolls around, queens and their stans descend on The Pines and parade through town. A word of caution: Fire Island Invasion is a celebration of skin, so don't come if you're offended by nipple tassels and jockstraps.

To get there, you’ll need to drive or take the Long Island Railroad to Sayville for the 30-minute ferry ride to Fire Island. Spend some time exploring some of the barrier island's car-free communities, each connected by water taxi if you're not up for a nice long walk. And don't leave without enjoying the view from the top of the 180-foot-tall Fire Island Lighthouse, which dates to 1858.

Updated by

Kaeli Conforti