There’s nothing more relaxing than a beach vacation, unless of course the beach is overcrowded and you’re craning your neck around hundreds of umbrellas and chairs just to catch a glimpse of the water. Some of Southerners’ favorite formerly quiet beaches have become a little less deserted over the past few years, which has led us to go even more off grid to find new stretches of sand where we can sun and swim. Here we’re letting you in on our scouting report for five secret beaches locals would rather keep on the down low—just don’t tell too many of your friends!
Edisto Beach, South Carolina
One of South Carolina’s lesser-known Sea Islands, Edisto Island (pronounced ED-IS-TOE) is the serene and secluded getaway you’ve been dreaming of. The “gently developed” stretch of shoreline on the Atlantic Ocean is sprinkled with cottages and homes that are perfect for a weekend stay. You’re guaranteed to have plenty of room to find your space across 5 miles of sand and 37 public access points
Sebastian Inlet State Park in Melbourne, Florida
Florida may seem mined over when it comes to undiscovered beach destinations, but we’d be willing to bet this one hasn’t reached the masses yet. With a population of just over 3,000 people, Melbourne Beach is exactly the kind of relaxed spot that locals are keen on keeping to themselves. One of their favorite hangouts is Sebastian Inlet State Park, which is something of a best-kept secret for serious surfers who happen to be in the know. Spend the day watching these athletes master the waves, or do a different kind of spectating by looking for birds; the park happens to be on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail,
Bald Head Island, North Carolina
There’s no better place to escape the crowds than a beach destination that’s located on an island—and doesn’t allow cars. Take the ferry from Deep Point Marina in Southport, North Carolina to experience the wonders of Bald Head Island. Ten thousand of the island’s 12,000 acres are protected, which makes overdevelopment near impossible. Add in the fact that the only modes of transportation on the island are bikes and golf carts, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a lowkey beach weekend.
Shell Island, Florida
Panama City Beach may not be known for its quiet, but locals are privy to a secret spot just a short boat ride away that feels vastly different from the more popular Northwest Florida tourist hot spot. A 15-minute ferry ride departs five times daily from St. Andrews State Park to take beach lovers to Shell Island. Once on the island, the 7-mile stretch of undeveloped beach becomes your personal playground. It’s a beloved spot for snorkeling, shelling, and dolphin-spotting.
Sandbridge Beach, Virginia
The Outer Banks may be a bucket-list destination, but there’s one portion of the legendary string of beaches that still flies under the radar and it’s Sandbridge Beach in Virginia. Located 25 miles south of Virginia Beach, this charming coastal community is all about laidback living. To truly escape it all, check out Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park.
