Ocean City is the quintessential boardwalk carnival for the East Coast. Perfect for families, Ocean City has roller coasters, arcades, water parks and even sky diving. And the beach itself isn’t bad either. Ocean City has great water for fishing and boating.

Yes, Maryland is famous for its crab, but there’s no shortage of food choices in Ocean City. Eat carnival-style hot dogs and French Fries on the boardwalk, have a two-scoop ice cream cone at one of the beach’s many ice cream parlors, and of course there’s always the all-you-can eat fresh seafood buffets.

For a beach holiday of the Victorian kind, Mackinac Island takes the cake. Explore the island’s natural beauty by foot, bike or horse and buggy – no cars allowed here. Even the island’s lodgings capture the essence of the late nineteenth century, with elegant Victorian manors and charming cottages. Other island activities include butterfly watching, horseback riding and golfing. Don’t miss Mackinac Island’s annual Lilac Festival in June.

Moshup Beach captures the best of Martha’s Vineyard beaches but without the throngs of people. Visitors often unwisely overlook Moshup Beach for more popular landmarks along the vineyard, so the long stretches of sandy shore are usually free for you to peruse and admire at your liking. The beach’s flawless white sands are contrasted sharply by steely grey cliffs and baby blue skies – a great backdrop for a leisurely barefoot stroll. And for the truly adventurous (and unblushing) beachgoer, Moshup Beach has areas for sunbathing in the nude.