Camping by the ocean offers a completely different experience from a typical campground. Waking up to the sound of waves, walking along sandy shores, and watching the sunset over the water make beach camping an unforgettable adventure. But not all coastal campgrounds are the same. Some offer remote, untouched beauty, while others provide easy access to outdoor activities and amenities.
This guide highlights the best beach camping spots across the U.S., from rugged shorelines to tropical escapes. You’ll find options for secluded getaways, family-friendly destinations, and places where wildlife thrives. Whether you prefer hiking through dunes, kayaking in calm waters, or simply relaxing by the shore, there’s a spot that fits your style.
Each location offers something special, making it easier to plan your next outdoor escape. Get ready to explore some of the most breathtaking beach campsites in the country.
#1. Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park
Camping at Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park on Kauai offers an unparalleled connection to nature. The park’s rugged coastline, with its dramatic cliffs and emerald valleys, creates a stunning backdrop for a beach camping adventure.
The Kalalau Trail, a popular hiking route, takes you to the campgrounds, which are only accessible by foot, boat, or helicopter. This isolation ensures an unforgettable and peaceful experience. The park has limited campsites, making it essential to plan ahead. Once settled, enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for watching the sunrise or sunset.
The clear waters offer great snorkeling, while the surrounding forest invites exploration. However, weather conditions can change quickly, so be prepared for rain and the possibility of rough seas. For those seeking a more remote and challenging camping experience, this location provides just that, combined with extraordinary natural beauty.
#2. Wai’anapanapa State Park
Wai’anapanapa State Park in Maui is a magical spot for beach camping. Known for its striking black sand beaches and lush surroundings, this park offers a unique camping experience. The campgrounds are located just steps away from the ocean, so you’ll wake up to the soothing sounds of the waves.
The dramatic lava rock formations and the crystal-clear water make for stunning views all day long. You can spend your days hiking along the coastline, exploring caves, or swimming in the freshwater caves nearby. The area is steeped in Hawaiian legend and history, adding an enriching layer to your visit.
As one of the more popular camping spots in Hawaii, it’s important to reserve a spot in advance. The location is perfect for those looking for adventure, natural beauty, and a deeper cultural experience, all while camping by the beach.
#3. Homer Spit Campground
Homer Spit Campground in Alaska offers an entirely different beach camping experience, where the stunning wilderness meets the sea. Located on the Kenai Peninsula, this campground is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offers panoramic views of Kachemak Bay.
The site is a prime location for wildlife lovers, as you might spot sea otters, seals, or even bald eagles. The beach here is pebbled rather than sandy, but its beauty is undeniable. You can enjoy fishing, kayaking, or just strolling along the shore while taking in the crisp, fresh air.
Homer is known for its vibrant arts scene and local seafood, so consider visiting the nearby town for a taste of local culture and cuisine. The campgrounds provide ample amenities, making it an accessible yet rugged spot for those seeking a taste of Alaska’s wild beauty.
#4. Wright’s Beach, Sonoma Coast State Park
Wright’s Beach in Sonoma Coast State Park offers a relaxed yet scenic beach camping experience. Located along California’s rugged northern coast, the beach features dramatic cliffs, tidal pools, and long sandy stretches perfect for sunset walks.
The campsite is right next to the beach, allowing campers to easily step out of their tents and onto the sand. It’s a great location for surfing, beachcombing, and relaxing by the fire as you enjoy the sound of the waves crashing. The nearby hiking trails offer views of the coastline and the opportunity to explore diverse wildlife.
The cool coastal climate and breathtaking vistas make this beach camping destination a hidden gem for those who want to escape the bustle of city life while still enjoying modern amenities like hot showers and picnic tables.
#5. Kalaloch Campground, Olympic National Park
Kalaloch Campground, nestled in Olympic National Park, is one of Washington’s most iconic beach camping locations. With its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, campers can enjoy breathtaking views of driftwood-strewn beaches, tall sea stacks, and the sound of the surf.
The campground is located in a lush coastal forest, providing shade and shelter from the elements. This area is perfect for those who enjoy solitude, nature walks, and wildlife watching, with opportunities to see Roosevelt elk, bald eagles, and seals. The Kalaloch Beach itself is a prime spot for exploring tide pools, beachcombing, and photography.
The park offers well-maintained facilities, but the real draw is the natural beauty and tranquility of the environment. Whether you’re taking a relaxing stroll on the beach or hiking the nearby trails, Kalaloch is a peaceful retreat surrounded by the wild beauty of the Washington coastline.
#6. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Camping at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore offers a one-of-a-kind experience on the shores of Lake Superior. With 21 islands to explore, this destination is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. Campsites are scattered across several islands, making it a great choice for those who enjoy kayaking or taking a boat ride to their campsite.
The rugged beauty of the area, combined with sea caves, lighthouses, and old-growth forests, makes every moment here feel like an adventure. The lake’s crystal-clear waters invite campers to swim, fish, or simply relax by the shore.
Wildlife is abundant, so you may spot bald eagles soaring overhead or hear loons calling at night. Since the islands are only accessible by water, campers need to plan ahead and pack efficiently. The remote nature of these campsites adds to the sense of adventure, making it a prime destination for those who love being immersed in nature.
#7. Hoffmaster State Park
Located along Lake Michigan’s eastern shoreline, Hoffmaster State Park is a peaceful retreat for beach campers. The park’s rolling dunes and thick forests create a scenic and secluded atmosphere, making it a favorite for those seeking a quiet escape.
The campground is just a short walk from the sandy beach, where campers can enjoy stunning sunsets over the water. Hiking trails weave through the park, with the Dune Climb Stairway offering panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Birdwatchers will appreciate the diverse range of species that pass through the area, especially in spring and fall.
Families and solo travelers alike can appreciate the well-maintained facilities and easy access to both the beach and the woods. With its combination of scenic beauty and outdoor activities, Hoffmaster State Park is a great place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Great Lakes.
#8. Ocracoke Campground
Tucked away on the Outer Banks, Ocracoke Campground offers a wild and remote beach camping experience. This area is only accessible by ferry, adding an extra layer of adventure before even setting up camp. The campground is steps away from an undeveloped stretch of beach, allowing campers to fall asleep to the sound of waves crashing against the shore. With no artificial lights nearby, stargazing here is incredible.
The area is rich in history, once home to the infamous pirate Blackbeard, and the nearby Ocracoke Village offers small shops, seafood restaurants, and local charm. The beach itself is great for shell collecting, surf fishing, and long walks along the dunes.
While the campground offers basic amenities, campers should come prepared, as this is a remote location with limited access to supplies. Those looking for an off-the-grid beach camping experience will find it here.
#9. Sea Camp Campground
Cumberland Island’s Sea Camp Campground offers an unforgettable coastal camping experience surrounded by unspoiled nature. This barrier island is known for its wild horses, pristine beaches, and maritime forests. Getting here requires a ferry ride, which adds to the secluded feel of the destination.
The campsites are shaded by towering live oaks draped with Spanish moss, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting. A short walk from the campsite leads to miles of untouched shoreline, where campers can explore, relax, or even spot dolphins playing in the surf. The island also has historic ruins, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, making it an exciting place to explore.
Since there are no stores or restaurants on the island, campers must bring all their supplies. The remoteness and natural beauty of this location make it a truly special place for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the simple pleasures of beach camping.
#10. Hunting Island State Park
Hunting Island State Park is a stunning coastal escape, offering beach camping surrounded by marshes, forests, and ocean views. The campground sits just behind the dunes, allowing easy access to the beach while providing some protection from coastal winds.
The island’s lighthouse, which visitors can climb, offers panoramic views of the coastline and is a highlight of any trip. Wildlife is abundant, with deer, shorebirds, and even the occasional alligator spotted in the area. At low tide, beachcombers can find unique shells and driftwood washed ashore. The park also features nature trails, boardwalks over tidal creeks, and a fishing pier that extends into the Atlantic.
Because this is one of South Carolina’s most popular state parks, campsites fill up quickly, so booking in advance is essential. Hunting Island is a wonderful mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a favorite for beach campers looking to enjoy both the land and sea.
#11. Cape Lookout National Seashore
For those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy an untouched coastline, Cape Lookout National Seashore is a hidden treasure. Accessible only by boat or ferry, this remote stretch of the Outer Banks offers a raw and peaceful camping experience. The wide-open beaches, rolling dunes, and historic lighthouse create a setting that feels untouched by time.
Without designated campsites or amenities, campers must be self-sufficient and prepared to bring all necessary supplies, including fresh water. Wildlife thrives in this protected area. Wild horses roam the shores, and birdwatchers will spot a variety of coastal species.
The fishing opportunities here are outstanding, making it a favorite for anglers. The absence of artificial light makes this a phenomenal place for stargazing. If you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, and a truly off-the-grid experience, Cape Lookout provides an unmatched opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form.
#12. Assateague Island National Seashore
Camping on Assateague Island means sharing the beach with its most famous residents—wild horses. These free-roaming ponies add to the rugged beauty of this coastal destination. The island features miles of undeveloped beach, making it an incredible place to wake up to the sound of waves and breathe in the fresh ocean air.
Camping here requires preparation since shifting tides and strong winds can affect conditions. However, the experience is well worth it. The island offers opportunities for kayaking, birdwatching, and hiking through the coastal dunes. Nights at Assateague are peaceful, with dark skies that are excellent for stargazing.
Campers should be mindful of food storage since the wild horses are known for their curiosity. The combination of scenic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the feeling of being completely immersed in nature makes Assateague one of the most unique beach camping spots in the U.S.
#13. Bahia Honda State Park
Tucked away in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park offers some of the most stunning beachfront camping in the country. The turquoise waters, white sand, and swaying palm trees create a tropical paradise.
Campers can set up near the beach, with easy access to swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The calm, clear waters are home to vibrant marine life, making this a great spot for underwater exploration. The park provides well-maintained campsites with basic amenities, so it’s a comfortable option for both tents and RVs.
Sunrises and sunsets here are breathtaking, and the old Bahia Honda Rail Bridge provides a scenic backdrop. Fishing is another popular activity, with plenty of opportunities to catch local species. For those wanting a balance of adventure and relaxation, this destination offers a peaceful retreat in a truly spectacular setting.
#14. Bird Island Basin
For campers who love watersports, Bird Island Basin is a prime destination along the Texas coast. Located within Padre Island National Seashore, this campground sits along the Laguna Madre, one of the world’s most renowned spots for windsurfing.
The shallow waters and steady breezes make it an excellent location for both beginners and experienced windsurfers. Camping here is a laid-back experience, with few distractions beyond the sounds of the water and the occasional bird calls. Fishing in the lagoon is excellent, and the area is home to an abundance of coastal wildlife.
The sunsets over the water are breathtaking, creating a peaceful atmosphere in the evenings. With its calm, shallow waters and a quiet setting, Bird Island Basin is a fantastic beach camping destination for those who enjoy outdoor recreation without the hustle of crowded tourist spots.
#15. Horseneck Beach State Reservation
New England’s coastal beauty shines at Horseneck Beach State Reservation. This Massachusetts gem offers a mix of sandy shores, salt marshes, and rolling dunes. The campground sits just steps from the beach, allowing campers to wake up to the fresh ocean breeze.
The waves here attract surfers and boogie boarders, while the nearby marshlands are perfect for birdwatching. The cool ocean breeze keeps temperatures comfortable, making it a pleasant summer getaway. Families enjoy the accessibility and well-kept campsites, which include picnic tables and fire pits. During low tide, long walks along the shore reveal seashells and smooth stones.
The beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of space to relax or explore. Its proximity to local seafood spots adds another perk, giving visitors a chance to enjoy fresh New England flavors. For a coastal camping experience with a mix of adventure and relaxation, Horseneck Beach is a fantastic choice.