There are a lot of uncertainties this summer, and traveling seems especially far-fetched. Some families will choose to stay home this summer; others will not. My family and I love to visit beach getaways. I have been considering safe ways to vacation with my child during the COVID-19 pandemic. I am sharing some favorite road trip beach trips, even if you choose not to travel this summer, be sure to use these locations as ideas for future travel!
Safety First
Reluctant to deal with airports and travel restrictions, some families are choosing to take road trips instead. Our family has been to a few locations during the pandemic, and we have not had any issues. On our trips, we made sure to wear our masks, sanitize our hands consistently, and social distance at every rest stop.
When planning our trips, we reviewed the CDC’s Considerations for Travelers website. We found the tips provided by the CDC to be extremely useful. The CDC recommends travelers ask themselves several questions before they travel, such as:
- Is COVID-19 spreading at your destination state?
- What are the state restrictions for travelers once you arrive at your destination?
- Have there been any confirmed COVID-19 cases in the location (hotel, resort, Airbnb etc.) you’re staying in?
- Are you able to social distance once you reach the location you are staying in?
- Do you have any high-risk family members you are traveling with or you will come back home to after the trip?
Each time my family has traveled, we’ve considered these questions and made the choice to pick a destination and go.
Best Road Trip Beach Getaways
Here are my recommendations for beaches to check out that are just a road trip away from Washington, DC. If you’re not traveling this year, consider adding these spots to your summer bucket list for next year. And if you do decide to travel, try hitting the beach early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Virginia Beach, VA
Since the drive is only 3 hours from Washington, DC, we take advantage of going to Virginia Beach often in the summertime. We not only enjoy the beach, but we also like walking around the famous 3-mile boardwalk and visiting the local aquarium. Check the website to learn what local attractions are open, and be sure to follow social distancing guidelines during your visit.
Myrtle Beach, SC
We love going to the Carolinas. It’s only a few hours from DC and a major tourist destination for families—well, usually. When we get to Myrtle Beach, we love going on the SkyWheel, eating at great restaurants, and most of all going to Myrtle Waves Water Park and spending the whole day there with the family. Visiting Myrtle Beach will be different this year. Check the website for updates about what’s open, and make sure to pack your masks!
Tybee Island Beach, GA
Tybee Island Beach is on my family’s summer bucket list. Even though we have not visited this well-known island yet, it looks absolutely beautiful with lots of fun family activities—even if you’re social distancing during the activities. Check the website for COVID-19 related updates.
Key West, FL
The southernmost point in the United States is the best road trip we took this summer so far. The Florida Keys are all amazing, but our favorite is Key West with so much to do for the whole family. On our trip, we visited Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, the Southernmost Point, Key West Historic Sea point, and spent the whole day at Smathers Beach. If you have not been there, make sure you add it to your list, you won’t be disappointed at all. Check the website for information related to visiting Key West during the pandemic.
Have you taken a family beach vacation this summer? What has your experience been like traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic? Comment below with your favorite beach getaways—either to visit this summer or to daydream about and save for another time.
