15 Best Beach Destinations for a Girls’ Trip
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Sun, salty hair, and zero responsibilities? That’s the energy we’re bringing to this girls’ beach trip guide. Whether you want pastel-pink cocktails in Miami, laid-back surf vibes in Encinitas, or turquoise Caribbean perfection that basically edits your photos for you, these destinations deliver peak bestie time.
From budget-friendly shores to passport-ready escapes, here are the best beach spots to unwind, recharge, and laugh way too loudly with your favorite people.
Miami, Florida
Sunshine, turquoise water, rooftop cocktails, and beach outfits that finally get their moment? Miami is basically built for a girls’ getaway — fun, flashy, and full of vibes.
Spend the day on South Beach or the quieter sands of Mid-Beach, wander Wynwood’s murals, hit a pool party, cruise Biscayne Bay, or shop and stroll around Brickell City Centre. When you want a break from the beach, the Pérez Art Museum is a breezy, stunning option.
Where to Eat: Try Sweet Liberty for brunch with a party twist, Planta for chic plant-based bites, Coyo Taco for casual and delicious street-style tacos, or Mandolin Aegean Bistro for a pretty outdoor dinner that feels like mini-Mykonos.
Where to Stay
- Budget-Friendly: Freehand Miami — stylish, fun, social, and a block from the beach.
- Nicer Option: The Goodtime Hotel — pastel décor, a dreamy pool deck, and that perfect Miami energy.
- Best Area for Vacation Rentals: South Beach or Mid-Beach for walkability + beach access; Brickell if you prefer a polished, modern vibe.
Clearwater Beach, Florida
Clearwater Beach is the kind of place where the water looks filtered, the sunsets look Photoshopped, and your group chat immediately blows up when you send a photo. It’s fun, easy, walkable, and perfect if your girls’ trip vibe is “maximum sunshine, minimum planning.”
Spend your days floating in the warm Gulf water, strolling the sugar-soft shoreline, and browsing the nightly sunset festival at Pier 60. Hop on a dolphin cruise for something cute and low-effort, or head to Sand Key Park for a quieter stretch of beach if your group likes things a little more chill.
Where to Eat: Kick off the day with brunch at Clear Sky Café, then later grab fresh seafood (and ocean views) at Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill. Craving something lighter? Salty’s Island Bar & Grille does great bowls and summery cocktails without the tourist-trap energy.
Where to Stay:
- Budget-Friendly: The Beachview Inn — A relaxed, wallet-friendly stay right across from the beach with bright rooms and a casual vibe.
- Splurge: Opal Sands Resort — A beachfront stunner with floor-to-ceiling Gulf views and a resort feel that still feels easygoing.
- Best Area for Rentals: Stay near South Clearwater Beach for walkability, restaurants, and easy beach access.
Key West, Florida
If your group motto is “sunshine + silliness,” Key West is your girl. With pastel houses, wild roosters, and cocktails that seem to appear in your hand out of nowhere, it’s a tropical escape without ever leaving the US.
Snorkel in impossibly clear water, bike the island’s cute streets, visit the Insta-fave Southernmost Point, and spend a night (or two) bar-hopping along Duval Street. And don’t miss Mallory Square’s nightly sunset celebration — it’s peak Key West chaos in the best way.
Where to Eat: Start your day with island-style brunch at Blue Heaven (hello, Key lime pancakes) or grab seafood and mojitos at El Mesón de Pepe for lunch. For something pretty and atmospheric, Latitudes on Sunset Key is worth the ferry ride.
Where to Stay:
- Budget-Friendly: NYAH – Not Your Average Hotel — Chic, communal, and perfect for groups thanks to flexible room layouts and poolside hangouts.
- Splurge: The Marker Key West Harbor Resort — A polished, tropical retreat with spacious rooms and three pools right by the marina.
- Best Area for Rentals: Look in Old Town for charm, walkability, and easy nightlife access.
Folly Beach, South Carolina
Just outside Charleston but with way fewer crowds, Folly Beach is the barefoot, laid-back Southern beach town your girls’ trip dreams are made of. It’s cozy, quirky, and perfect for groups who want beach days with a splash of personality.
Spend lazy mornings on the wide sandy beach, go surfing or paddleboarding, and wander the pier if you love a good ocean breeze moment. When you’re ready for a break from the sun, browse the surf shops and boutiques along Center Street.
Where to Eat: Brunch at Lost Dog Café is a local rite of passage. For seafood with sunset views, grab a table at Taco Boy or Pier 101. Craving something casual? The Drop-In Bar & Deli has great sandwiches perfect for a beach picnic.
Where to Stay:
- Budget-Friendly: Riverside Inn and Cottages — charming, affordable rooms and cottages just steps from the beach, with a relaxed Folly vibe that keeps costs low without sacrificing location.
- Splurge: Water’s Edge Inn — A cozy, boutique escape with island-chic rooms and a more intimate, quiet atmosphere.
- Best Area for Rentals: Anywhere near Center Street keeps you steps from the beach, cafés, and live music.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Tybee Island is Savannah’s beachy little sister — charming, mellow, and perfect if your group likes beaches without big beach-town chaos. It’s easy, cute, and ideal for a slow-paced, quality-time girls’ getaway.
Bike around the island, lounge on South Beach, and climb the historic lighthouse for views that make the sweat totally worth it. Kayaking through the marshes is dreamy, and if you want a quick city fix, Savannah is just 20 minutes away.
Where to Eat: Fuel up with brunch at The Breakfast Club, grab seafood baskets at A-J’s Dockside, or treat the group to a sunset dinner at The Deck Beach Bar & Kitchen. For something sweet, Seaweed’s Sno-Balls is a must on hot afternoons.
Where to Stay:
- Not-Too-Expensive and Nice: Tybee Island Inn — A well-rated, comfy spot close to the beach and perfect for saving cash for seafood and cocktails.
- Best Area for Rentals: South Beach is the most convenient for dining, the pier, and beach time.
Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara is that effortlessly chic friend who always looks sun-kissed and unbothered. It’s perfect for a girls’ trip when you want California beach vibes with a side of great wine, pretty architecture, and a pace that feels luxurious without trying too hard.
Spend the day lounging at East Beach before hopping between the dreamy tasting rooms along the Funk Zone. Wander State Street’s boutiques, take a sailing cruise at sunset, or head into the Santa Ynez Valley for a relaxed wine-country day trip. If you’re feeling active, the coastal hiking trails have incredible views without too much effort.
Where to Eat: Refuel with fresh bowls and smoothies at Backyard Bowls, then treat yourselves to elegant seafood and ocean views at Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach. For a fun girls’-night-out dinner, The Lark is stylish, lively, and perfect for sharing plates and cocktails.
Where to Stay:
- Budget-Friendly: Motel 6 — simple, clean, and walkable to the beach.
- Nicer Option: Hotel Californian — glam Moroccan-inspired interiors and a rooftop pool.
- Best Area for Rentals: The Funk Zone for walkability, restaurants, and that cool, artsy vibe.
Encinitas, California
Encinitas is laid-back, surfy, and a little boho — the ideal pick when you want a girls’ getaway that’s chill but still full of great food, pretty beaches, and boutique shopping.
Spread your towels out at Moonlight Beach, browse the indie shops along Highway 101, or take a scenic stroll through the Self-Realization Fellowship Gardens (yes, it’s as peaceful as it sounds). If you’re feeling adventurous, sign up for a beginner surf lesson or hop over to nearby La Jolla for kayaking.
Where to Eat: Start the day with healthy-but-delicious brunch at GOODONYA or Pannikin Coffee & Tea (housed in a historic train station). For dinner, Buona Forchetta has the kind of pizza that makes a girls’ night instantly better, while Fish 101 keeps things casual and fresh.
Where to Stay:
- Budget-Friendly: Rodeway Inn — cute, affordable, and close to the beach.
- Nicer Option: Alila Marea Beach Resort — modern luxury with stunning ocean views.
- Best Area for Rentals: Leucadia, for its relaxed vibe and walkable cafes.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks is all about spacious beaches, charming seaside towns, and slow-paced coastal living — perfect for a low-stress girls’ trip with morning coffee on the porch and evenings filled with seafood and wine.
Climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, hit the wild dunes of Jockey’s Ridge, or take a scenic drive between the island towns. Beach time is the main event here, but you can also book a sunset sail, go horseback riding on the beach, or explore the local boutiques in Duck.
Where to Eat: Grab breakfast at Front Porch Cafe, snag a casual lunch at Tortugas’ Lie, and settle in for a seafood feast at Blue Moon Beach Grill. For something more upscale, The Blue Point in Duck is a local favorite.
Where to Stay:
- Budget-Friendly: Sea Ranch Resort — comfortable, oceanfront, and great value.
- Nicer Option: Sanderling Resort — peaceful, refined, and steps from the beach.
- Best Area for Rentals: Duck or Corolla for the nicest homes and great beach access.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Warm water, super-soft sand, and a super-friendly beach town vibe make Gulf Shores a surprisingly perfect pick for a chill, affordable girls’ trip.
Spend long lazy days on the beach, bike or walk the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, or hit the water for dolphin tours and paddleboarding. If your group loves music, check what’s happening at The Wharf — concerts, events, and nightlife all in one spot.
Where to Eat: Start with brunch at Southern Grind (cute decor + great coffee), then swing by Picnic Beach Bar & Grill for casual seafood and cocktails near the sand. Bahama Bob’s Beach Side Cafe is great for laid-back beach vibes and comfort food, while Fish River Grill delivers fresh Gulf fish and Southern favorites. For something a bit more elevated, book dinner at Cobalt The Restaurant for polished coastal dishes and sunset views over the water.
Where to Stay:
- Budget-Friendly: Best Western on the Beach — straightforward, comfortable, and right on the sand.
- Nicer Option: The Lodge at Gulf State Park — modern, eco-conscious, and beautifully designed.
- Best Area for Rentals: Orange Beach for easy beach access and plenty of restaurants.
Maui, Hawaii
Maui is the ultimate tropical fantasy — lush landscapes, golden beaches, and that breezy island energy that instantly puts everyone in vacation mode.
Snorkel at Molokini Crater, lounge on the stunning stretch of sand in Wailea, or spend a morning exploring Lahaina’s shops and galleries. If your group’s up for adventure, drive (or tour) the Road to Hana, go whale watching in season, or book a sunset cruise.
Where to Eat: Enjoy farm-to-table brunch at Kihei Caffe, grab poke bowls from Tamura’s, and book a sunset dinner at Mama’s Fish House for a true splurge-worthy experience. For something fun and casual, Monkeypod has great cocktails and lively vibes.
Where to Stay:
- Budget-Friendly: Kihei Surfside Resort — spacious units and great ocean views without the resort price tag.
- Nicer Option: Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort — modern, stylish, and perfect for a luxe girls’ escape.
- Best Area for Rentals: Kihei for affordability and great beaches, or Wailea if you want upscale everything.
Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is the classic ‘sun, sip, and swim’ getaway — perfect when you want turquoise water, great nightlife, and a ton of activities without overthinking the planning.
Spend your days beach-hopping between soft, calm stretches along the Hotel Zone, hop on a catamaran to Isla Mujeres for that perfect blue-on-blue moment, or cool off in nearby cenotes like Dos Ojos or Suytun. If you want a lively night out, Coco Bongo is the over-the-top experience everyone needs to try once.
Best Places to Eat: Go for tacos and margaritas at Mochomos Cancún, enjoy modern Mexican plates with a view at RosaNegra, or grab something casual and delicious at El Fish Fritanga right on the lagoon.
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Selina Cancun Hotel Zone — chic, social, and right by the beach.
- Nicer: JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa — spacious rooms, beachfront pools, and a quieter, more upscale vibe.
- Best Rental Area: The Hotel Zone for easy beach access and walkability.
Tulum, Mexico
If your group is all about boutique hotels, boho beach clubs, and warm turquoise water, Tulum checks every box — with a generous sprinkle of wellness and nightlife.
Spend lazy beach days at spots like Papaya Playa Project, bike through town, take a dip in cenotes (Cenote Calavera is super photogenic), and visit the seaside Mayan ruins at sunrise for peaceful views. At night, the beach road turns into a lively scene full of bars, DJs, and mezcal margaritas.
Best Places to Eat: Grab fresh, beautiful brunch at Raw Love, go for upscale Mexican at Arca, or enjoy wood-fired everything at Hartwood.
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Mango Tulum Hotel — relaxed, clean, and great for groups.
- Nicer: Be Tulum — dreamy suites, private pools, and the full chic-boho experience.
- Best Rental Area: Aldea Zama for stylish condos and easy access to both beach and town.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
If your group wants total relaxation, Punta Cana is your all-inclusive paradise — think long white-sand beaches, warm water, and fruity cocktails delivered to your lounge chair.
Book a boat tour along Bávaro Beach, try paddleboarding on the calm water, unwind at a spa inside your resort, or dance the night away at one of the local clubs. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a day trip to Saona Island — it’s straight out of a screensaver.
Best Places to Eat: Most people stick to their resort, but if you venture out, try Jellyfish Restaurant for beachfront seafood or La Yola, a gorgeous spot overlooking the marina.
Where to Stay:
- Budget: HM Bavaro Beach — simple, beachfront, and budget-friendly.
- Nicer: Secrets Cap Cana — adults-only luxury with amazing service.
- Best Rental Area: Bávaro Beach for the prettiest coastline and best access to tours.
Nassau, Bahamas
Easy to reach, beautiful beaches, fun nightlife, and the option to go full-on resort or explore charming island spots — Nassau is perfect for a relaxed but lively getaway.
Spend the day at Cable Beach, hop over to Blue Lagoon Island, explore downtown Nassau, or snorkel over coral reefs. If you want something extra memorable, spend an afternoon at the waterpark at Atlantis — it’s iconic for a reason.
Best Places to Eat: Try local Bahamian flavors at Fish Fry, enjoy waterfront cocktails at Café Matisse, or go upscale at Graycliff Restaurant in a historic mansion.
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Holiday Inn Resort Nassau — beachfront and walkable.
- Nicer: Grand Hyatt Baha Mar — pools, restaurants, nightlife, and a perfect beach.
- Best Rental Area: Cable Beach for calm water and great walkability.
Aruba
Sunshine basically guaranteed, crystal-clear water, safe, walkable areas, and tons of activities — Aruba makes planning easy, especially for groups.
Relax at Eagle Beach (one of the best in the world), snorkel around Boca Catalina, explore Arikok National Park, or take a sunset cruise. The island also has a surprisingly fun nightlife scene, especially around Palm Beach.
Best Places to Eat: Enjoy laid-back bites at Eduardo’s Beach Shack, go romantic at Barefoot Restaurant with tables right in the sand, or grab fresh seafood at The Pelican Nest.
Where to Stay:
- Budget: MVC Eagle Beach — small, friendly, and steps from a gorgeous beach.
- Nicer: The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba — luxury beachfront with amazing service.
- Best Rental Area: Palm Beach for restaurants, nightlife, and easy beach access.
Final Thoughts
Whether your perfect girls’ trip means lazy beach days, sunset cocktails, boutique shopping, or dancing barefoot in the sand, these destinations deliver the kind of sun-soaked fun that practically guarantees unforgettable memories.
From Florida’s shimmering Gulf Coast to Hawaii’s lush shores and the Caribbean’s turquoise perfection, there’s a beach escape for every vibe — bougie, boho, budget-friendly, or blissfully off-grid. Now all that’s left to do? Grab your sunscreen, pack your cutest swimsuits, and get your group chat buzzing.
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