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.

This quaint Atlantic Coast beach has been a best-kept secret of my family for almost 20 years. And there’s a reason why we keep going back – the beach is the definition of family-friendly. Calm and quiet, Virginia beach is perfect for relaxing and building sand castles. No worrying about rowdy spring breakers or loud parties, Virginia Beach has a slow pace and a hometown-feel The beach’s main drag is filled with tons of gift shops, sea food restaurants and other beach holiday necessities. Rent a bicycle built for two, and after cruising the beach you’ll definitely want an ice cream cone from one of the many vendors that line the streets.

If the weather turns dreary for a day or two, travel to nearby Williamsburg where you and your family can learn about what life was like in the colonies at the Colonial Williamsburg village. Busch Gardens amusement park is also nearby with Europe-themed rides and great food. My family loves visiting Virgina Beach during the last part of May because the weather is warm and the crowds are at a minimum.