The entire U.S. coastline is known for beautiful beaches, but the best beaches are the ones closest to home. While you might be lucky enough to get stationed on a base with beach property like NAB Coronado, MCAS Kaneohe Bay, or NAS Pensacola, many other bases are within driving distance of a sandy escape. A quick day outing or overnight trip to escape the daily grind can boost morale.
Thankfully, the military has installations all over the U.S. near pristine beaches to take advantage of the shoreline and coastal life activities.
East Coast Beaches Near Military Bases
1) Delaware
On the East Coast, Delaware might not be the first state that comes to mind for beach vacations, but those stationed at Dover AFB have access to several well-known and picturesque beaches.
Nearby beaches:
- Rehoboth
- Dewey
- Bethany
- Cape May (New Jersey)
2) Maryland
Maryland might best be known for its delicious lobster, but the water in this region extends beyond a mouth-watering meal. It sets the tone for a relaxing day at the beach and some much-needed time out of the office.Nearby beaches:
- Tilghman and Smith Islands
- Ocean City
- Chesapeake Bay
Photo from Canva
3) Washington, DC
The nation’s capital sits near some of the most popular beaches in the Mid-Atlantic area, with many within convenient distances under 200 miles.
Nearby beaches:
- Bethany Beach (Delaware)
- Sea Isle City (New Jersey)
- Ocean City (Maryland)
4) Virginia
Spanning the East Coast from the northern shores of Smith Island to the southern sands of Carova Beach, Virginia offers a variety of beaches for every type of beach lover.
Nearby beaches:
- Assateague and Chincoteague Islands
- Virginia Beach
- Smith Island (Maryland)
- Outerbanks (North Carolina)
Virginia Beach - photo from Canva
5) North Carolina
The Outer Banks band of islands encompasses many popular beach town destinations, including Nags Head, Emerald Isle, and Rodanthe.
Nearby beaches:
- Bald Head Island
- Outer Banks
- Topsail
- Wilmington
6) South Carolina
Charleston is the talk of Coastal Carolina towns these days due to its growing population and booming foodie scene, but the Holy City is just one of the many beach towns to check out on the SC Coast.
Nearby beaches:
- Folly Beach
- Isle of Palms
- Myrtle Beach
- Hilton Head
Myrtle Beach - photo from Canva
Are you interested in beach hopping and using your military ID for affordable lodging and beachside activities near military bases? Don’t forget to check out your branch’s MWR or travel and leisure websites for details about beach toy rentals, RV rentals and cabins, and hotel availability.
Areas like the Carolinas and Florida, where the coastlines are dense with military installations, are popular camping destinations.
7) Florida
Southeast and into the Gulf, there are too many fantastic sunny beaches to count within driving distance of heavily populated Florida military installations, but here is a small smattering.
Nearby beaches:
If you want a slight inland detour, try these amazing Disney World military discounts, along with expert tips for planning your trip to the House of Mouse.
Clearwater Beach near MacDill AFB and Tampa - photo from Canva
West Coast Beaches Near Military Bases
Out west, the beaches take on a different look and feel compared to the East Coast shores. It’s easy to find one to suit your preferences. Cool temps and cooler water are prevalent in Washington state, and sunshine galore warms Southern California, while you can see a little bit of every kind of beach along the western U.S. coastline.
1) Washington
In Washington, you'll find some beaches perfect for relaxing, building sand castles, and flying kites. Others better serve the outdoor adventurer, setting the backdrop for beautiful hikes and exploring tide pools.
- Point No Point
- Pacific Beach
- Long Beach Peninsula
Mission Beach San Diego - photo from Canva
2) California
California is very similar to Hawaii when it comes to an excess of beach beauty. There’s no shortage up and down the state line!
- Asilomar State Beach, near Monterey
- Carmel Beach
- Coronado Beaches
- Mission Beach
- Del Mar
See our pick of the best beaches for military families in the San Diego area.
What About Hawaii?
If you’re lucky enough to be stationed near or on the nation's 50th state, then you know the beaches are hard to beat, so Hawaii’s coastal dominance needs no description.
Bellows Beach on Oahu - photo from Grace Rebekah Photography
Traveling is a natural part of military life, so embrace the opportunities and see the U.S. while still in military service. The good news is that MilitaryByOwner has travel resources to help make your next beach trip less expensive and hopefully less stressful.
What did we miss? What's your favorite beach location near a military installation?
Get more travel tips and ideas with our free military travel guide:
