Best Camping Spots for Beachcombing and Ocean Views
- 1. Assateague Island National Seashore - Maryland/Virginia
- 2. Olympic National Park - Washington
- 3. Cape Cod National Seashore - Massachusetts
- 4. Point Reyes National Seashore - California
- 5. Huntington Beach - California
- 6. Pine Cliff Resort – A Hidden Gem for Beachfront Camping
1. Assateague Island National Seashore - Maryland/Virginia
Assateague Island is a beloved destination for those who love a mix of natural beauty and wildlife encounters. Located on the coast of Maryland and Virginia, this national seashore offers some of the best camping spots for beachcombing and ocean views. The island is famous for its wild horses, pristine beaches, and abundant seashells, making it an ideal spot for those who want to spend the night just a few steps away from the ocean.
The campsites here are right by the beach, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. As you wake up in your tent, the sound of waves crashing along the shore creates a serene environment for an unforgettable camping experience. Whether you're walking along the beach at sunrise, collecting seashells, or watching the wild ponies roam, Assateague Island offers a rich outdoor experience.
2. Olympic National Park - Washington
For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Olympic National Park in Washington state is a paradise for campers who enjoy beachcombing and ocean views. The park’s coastal area is filled with stunning sea stacks, tide pools, and rugged cliffs, providing endless opportunities to explore and unwind. Popular camping spots like Kalaloch Campground offer direct access to the beach, where visitors can spend hours combing the shore for treasures washed up by the Pacific Ocean.
While camping at Olympic, you’ll experience a variety of ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, wild beaches, and towering mountains. The beach at Kalaloch is a perfect spot for watching the sun dip below the horizon, and the local tide pools are full of starfish, crabs, and colorful anemones. For those seeking adventure, hikes along the beach or through the surrounding forest can lead you to remote, peaceful spots.
3. Cape Cod National Seashore - Massachusetts
Cape Cod is synonymous with beach vacations, and its National Seashore is one of the best camping spots for beachcombing and ocean views. Stretching across 40 miles of coastline, Cape Cod National Seashore offers an array of camping experiences, from primitive sites to well-equipped campgrounds. The beaches here are clean and wide, perfect for a day of collecting seashells, walking along the shoreline, or just enjoying the saltwater breeze.
The famous Coast Guard Beach is one of the top spots in the park for beachcombing. With its fine sand and breathtaking views of the Atlantic, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of exploration. Cape Cod is also home to a wide range of marine life, so beachgoers can often find interesting shells, sea glass, and even the occasional whale bone along the shore. Whether you’re interested in wildlife watching or simply enjoying the beauty of the coast, Cape Cod offers the perfect escape.
4. Point Reyes National Seashore - California
Point Reyes National Seashore in Northern California is one of the most beautiful and rugged coastal regions in the United States. This stunning national park offers unparalleled ocean views and is home to some of the best beachcombing opportunities. The park’s beaches are pristine, offering wide expanses of sand and dramatic cliffs as a backdrop. Some of the most popular beaches, like Drakes Beach and Limantour Beach, are great places to search for seashells, driftwood, and other natural treasures.
Point Reyes also has a rich history and is known for its historic lighthouse. While camping at the park, visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the cliffs and rocky shorelines, watching the waves crash against the shore. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including sea lions, elephant seals, and a variety of seabirds. For a truly unique experience, hike along the Point Reyes trail and take in the spectacular ocean views while searching for hidden beach treasures.
5. Huntington Beach - California
Huntington Beach, often referred to as "Surf City, USA," is a popular beach destination in Southern California. It’s not only known for its vibrant surf culture but also for its exceptional beach camping spots. Huntington Beach offers both beachfront and back-in campsites, making it a great choice for beachcombing and ocean views. Whether you're walking along the pier or exploring the coastline, the opportunities for collecting seashells and enjoying the ocean are endless.
Visitors to Huntington Beach can enjoy watching surfers catch waves, walking along the expansive sandy beach, and relaxing under the California sun. For those seeking a more interactive experience, the nearby wetlands and nature preserves provide opportunities for bird watching and exploring the local ecosystems. Huntington Beach is a great place to camp if you're looking for a fun and active beach environment, combined with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.
6. Pine Cliff Resort – A Hidden Gem for Beachfront Camping
If you're looking for a more serene, secluded beachfront camping experience, Pine Cliff Resort is a hidden gem. Nestled along the shores of a pristine lake, this resort offers the perfect blend of nature, tranquility, and breathtaking ocean views. The campground at Pine Cliff Resort provides direct access to the beach, where you can spend hours beachcombing, searching for seashells, and enjoying the soothing sounds of the water.
What makes Pine Cliff Resort unique is its intimate, natural setting, far removed from the crowds of typical beach destinations. It’s a place where you can truly connect with nature, offering visitors the chance to enjoy quiet walks on the beach, stargazing by the water, and even kayaking or canoeing. If you're interested in booking your next beach camping adventure at Pine Cliff Resort, visit Pine Cliff Resort for more details and to reserve your spot today!
