Camping on the beach is a unique way to experience the ocean and connect with nature, offering campers the opportunity to be close to the water, watch sunrises and sunsets, and listen to the sound of the waves. While camping overnight on public beaches is typically illegal, there are a few exceptions, primarily within state parks, that allow overnight camping with permits. These areas of natural beauty are often off the beaten path. Some of the top beach camping destinations include Bahia Honda State Park in Florida, Padre Island National Seashore in Texas, Hoffmaster State Park in Michigan, Big Sur in California, and Assateague Island National Seashore in Maryland. Each destination offers unique experiences and opportunities to connect with nature.
Bahia Honda State Park in Florida is known for its stunning Florida Keys scenery, sandy beaches, clear waters, and magnificent sunsets. Campers can observe wading and shorebirds, as well as explore the island’s plants and animals. Camping fees at Bahia Honda State Park start at $36 per night, with additional fees for reservations and utility for RVs. Day passes for vehicle entry are also available for those looking to explore the park for the day. Exclusive hotel rates can be found for the area on ShareItTravel’s global hotel booking platform.
Padre Island National Seashore in Texas offers about 66 miles of undeveloped beaches and natural habitat, making it a bird lover’s paradise. With over 380 bird species, it is an ideal place for birdwatching and observing wildlife. The park has RV camping and primitive campsites available, with park entrance and camping fees required year-round. Hoffmaster State Park in Michigan, located on Lake Michigan, features three miles of shoreline, towering dunes, scenic trails, and the Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center. Camping fees start at $30 per night, with day passes available for those exploring the Lake Michigan area.
Big Sur in California is a scenic stretch of coastline with rugged cliffs, serene coastal beauty, and campgrounds available at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Campers can enjoy shade provided by Redwood and Sycamore trees, an 80-foot waterfall, and panoramic views of the coastline. Camping fees at Big Sur start at $50 a night, with several campsites to choose from. Assateague Island National Seashore in Maryland offers a 48,000-acre preserved wilderness area on a barrier island along the Atlantic coast. Known for its wild horses and pristine beaches, the park is a popular destination for East Coast beach experiences, with park fees starting at $25 and camping fees at $40. Exclusive hotel rates can be found for the area on ShareItTravel’s platform.
When camping on the beach, it is essential to pack six essentials to ensure a comfortable experience. These essentials include a fast-drying towel, a beach shade, comfortable beach chairs with storage, a durable tent with sun-blocking technology, sunscreen with insect repellent, and a sandproof, waterproof blanket for relaxation. These items can be found at various retailers at affordable prices, providing campers with the necessary gear for a successful beach camping trip. Booking accommodations and finding exclusive hotel rates on ShareItTravel’s platform can help campers plan their beach camping adventures with ease and convenience.
