Guide to RV Summer Beach Vacation Ideas

Summer beach vacations are an iconic choice. From beachside condos to hotels and Airbnbs, the possibilities for beach accommodations are endless. But what if you took your RV to the beach with you? This choice could help to save you hundreds of dollars in accommodations and make for an epic road trip. Better yet, what if you used your Harvest Hosts membership to ditch the expensive campgrounds as well? Get ready as we provide some of the best RV summer beach vacation ideas with tips for using your Harvest Hosts membership to stay as close to the water as possible.

Atlantic Ocean

As the second-largest ocean on Earth, the Atlantic Ocean provides so much to us. East Coasters and tons of aquatic species know it well. Did you know that the Atlantic Ocean drives weather patterns and covers twenty-five percent of the world’s surface? Read on to learn about some of its best beaches.

Cahoon Hollow Beach - Cape Cod, Massachusetts

The area is famous for the Cape Cod National Seashore, but Cahoon Hollow Beach is lesser-known and less crowded. This area offers stunning and picturesque beaches where woodlands and marshlands meet the shore. With nearby parking and amenities, and almost endless activities, this can make for the perfect vacation destination.

Rainy Day Activities

If you find yourself in Cape Cod on a rainy day, be sure to check out the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, or Cape Cod Maritime Museum. For more educational fun, the Chatham Shark Center is the perfect place for people of all ages to learn all about sharks.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Location

Cape Cod Beer - Barnstable, MA

Cape Cod Beer is a microbrewery located in the heart of Cape Cod. Their year round beers offer a little something for everyone, while their seasonal beers dabble in different brewing styles. No matter the beer, their cans are all Cape Cod-inspired. This Harvest Hosts location offers four pet-friendly sites for RVs up to thirty-five feet in length. 

Cape May Beach - Wildwood Crest, New Jersey

The Jersey Shore is a beloved beach area, but nearby Cape May is especially well-liked. With pristine, family-friendly beaches and close amenities, it’s the perfect vacation choice. Locals in New Jersey and Pennsylvania frequent Cape May, and it also makes for a great stop for those who are just passing through.

Rainy Day Activities

If you need to keep you and your group entertained on a rainy day, check out any of the local museums including the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum, Sea Isle City Historical Museum, or Cape May Fire Department Museum. For a blast to the pass, check out The Doo Wop Preservation League, which features memorabilia from the 50s and 60s.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Locations

Natali Vineyards - Cape May Court House, NJ

This winery produces an astonishing twenty-eight wines, with something available for almost any palate. Don’t let that fool you because Natali Vineyards specializes in quantity AND quality with many of their wines winning annual awards. This Harvest Hosts location offers four pet-friendly sites for RVs under forty feet in length.

Misty Meadow Sheep Dairy - Woodbine, NJ

This unique dairy farm specializes in sheep products, such as milk, frozen yogurt, and cheese. They also sell cow dairy products, including ice cream. This can be the perfect place to unwind after a day at the beach. This Harvest Hosts location offers five pet-friendly spots for RVs of any size.

Folly Beach - Charleston, South Carolina

Known as “Charleston’s Beach Town”, this quaint stop truly has an iconic beach town-feel to it. After spending the day at the beach soaking up the sun or having some fun, be sure to check out the shops in town, as they’re all locally-owned. 

Rainy Day Activities

There is tons of history within Charleston that is certainly worth exploring. This historic town has many homes that have been turned into museums, such as the Nathaniel Russell House. For something interactive, yet educational, check out the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon. The South Carolina Aquarium and Charleston City Market are also fun places to stretch your legs.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Locations

Tideland Brewing - North Charleston, SC

This brewery offers twenty-five beers on tap and sells four-packs, crowlers, and growlers to ensure you leave stocked up on brews. Be sure to check out their huge beer garden as well. They have one pet-friendly site available for an RV up to forty feet in length.

Striped Pig Distillery - North Charleston, SC

Get ready to visit Charleston’s first distillery post prohibition. This woman-owned business combines innovation with tradition, making it a beloved stop for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you like gin, rum, or vodka, then you’re in for a real treat at the Striped Pig Distillery. This Harvest Hosts location offers two pet-friendly sites for RVs up to forty feet in length.

Fort Lauderdale Beach - Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Famous for its beaches, Fort Lauderdale is a very popular beach vacation spot. If you want a break from the beach, take a ride on a water taxi or ride a gondola through the canal. Don’t forget to visit Port Everglades and check out the incredible art scene.  

Rainy Day Activities

In addition to ample shopping opportunities, there’s plenty to indulge on a rainy day in Fort Lauderdale. The NSU Art Museum of Fort Lauderdale and Broward Center for Performing Arts are each definitely worth the stop. For fans or avid swimmers, check out the International Swimming Hall of Fame.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Location

ChainBridge Distillery - Oakland Park, FL

This distillery is known for their award-winning and unique craft spirits. Enjoy favorites such as Florida Basil Vodka, Barreled Pear Brandy, and Carrot Spirit, along with less exciting flavors as well. This Harvest Hosts location offers three pet-friendly sites for RVs up to thirty feet in length.

Pacific Ocean

As the largest and deepest ocean on the planet, the Pacific Ocean holds a very special place in so many people’s hearts. It covers more than thirty percent of the world’s surface and is home to many natural wonders and millions of sea creatures.

Long Beach, Oregon

What better place to vacation than the world’s longest contiguous beach? Not only are the Long Beach shores abundant, but the seafood harvests are as well. Here, visitors can enjoy fresh salmon, razor clams, and so much more. You can buy it fresh at a market or stop by a local restaurant to enjoy seafood that has already been prepared. 

Rainy Day Activities

On a rainy day on the Long Beach Peninsula, visitors can check out the unique World Kite Museum or the Cranberry Museum. The Goonies House is also located nearby for fans of the 80s movie.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Location

Peninsula Golf Course - Long Beach, WA

This gorgeous nine-hole course is close to downtown and is dog-friendly! Here, you’ll feel connected to the wilderness tucked in with old growth trees and ample wildlife. Don’t forget to check out their on-site restaurant! This Harvest Hosts location offers one pet-friendly site for an RV up to thirty feet in length.

Pfeiffer Beach - Big Sur, California

Pfeiffer Beach is famous for being the “purple sand beach” of California and is also home to the scenic Keyhole Arch. If you happen to visit in early summer, then you may be treated to some wildflowers growing around the rocks on your way to the shoreline. Be sure to mark this beach on your map and itinerary if you’re ever driving Route 1.

Rainy Day Activities

The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is one of the top ways to spend a rainy day in Big Sur to still feel close to the ocean. For a unique stop, check out the Tor-House Foundation or nearby Hawthorne Gallery.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Locations

Paicines Ranch - Paicines, CA

This regenerative farm produces grass-fed beef and lamb and also sells pork, turkey, and eggs, as well as organic grain and grapes. Be sure to stock up on goods while you’re here! This Harvest Hosts location offers one pet-friendly space for an RV of any size.

California Street Winery - Bradley, CA

What started as a single harvest on California Street has since turned into an award-winning boutique wine business. Here, all grapes are sourced from sustainable vineyards and are produced in small batches. This Harvest Hosts location offers one pet-friendly site for an RV up to thirty feet in length.

Zuma Beach - Malibu, California

Located in Los Angeles County, Zuma Beach is a picturesque Southern California beach. Unlike nearby beaches, Zuma doesn’t have any homes built between where the highway and sand meet, creating the perfect view of the beaches and the Pacific Ocean. Be sure to carve out time for any nearby sightseeing in Malibu. 

Rainy Day ActivitiesThe Los Angeles area is known for its cultural melting pot and ample food choices. Trying the local cuisine can be one of the best ways to spend a rainy day in the area. Additionally, be sure to check out any of the many local art galleries. If you have kids with you, be sure to visit the Discover Cube.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Locations

King Richard's Antique and Vintage Center - Whittier, CA

King Richard’s is the largest antique store in California, and is set up flea market-style with over three hundred vendors. Exploring this space can be another great way to spend a rainy day near Malibu. This Harvest Hosts location offers five pet-friendly sites for RVs up to forty-four feet in length.

Giessinger Winery - Fillmore, CA

Located close to town, Giessinger Winery can make for a great rural getaway if you don’t tend to enjoy the city. Be sure to arrive early enough to taste some of their many wines and stop by the local bakery in the morning. This Harvest Hosts location offers six pet-friendly sites for RVs up to forty-four feet in length. 

Gulf of Mexico

Formed over 300 million years ago, the Gulf of Mexico is the largest Gulf in the world. The coastal states that touch it include Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, and you can find beautiful beaches to visit in each of these amazing states.

Perdido Key Beach - Pensacola, Florida

The Florida panhandle and surrounding areas are known for their white sands and emerald waters. When visiting, be sure to take note of all the nearby fun to enjoy, such as the Longest ZipLine in Northwest Florida. There’s plenty to see and do with the whole family.

Rainy Day Activities

The Pensacola Museum of History or the Pensacola Children’s Museum can be the perfect places to wait out the rain. If you happen to visit when there’s a show, then check out any of their local theaters for amazing performances year-round.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Locations

Bridges for Bethlehem - Pensacola, FL

This volunteer donation-based service provides needed supplies to war-torn Bethlehem, Palestine. From medical supplies to food, utility assistance, and more, Harvest Hosts members can directly make a donation or purchase any artisanal gifts from Bethlehem. This Harvest Hosts location offers one pet-friendly site for an RV up to twenty-five feet in length.

Gulf Coast Brewery - Pensacola, FL

This dog-friendly brewery produces their own beers and features guest beers alongside other local drinks. They also regularly feature food trucks and have happy hour specials daily. This Harvest Hosts location offers just one pet-friendly spot for an RV up to twenty feet in length. 

Boca Beach - Boca Grande, Florida

Boca Grande is home to not only beautiful beaches and plenty of fishing, but also the Gasparilla Island State Park. Many visitors enjoy touring Boca Grande in a golf cart to take in all the sights. If you bring your own boat or rent one locally, consider island hopping to really get the full experience. 

Rainy Day Activities

If you have any animal lovers with you, be sure to visit the Wonder Gardens, the Big Cat Habitat Gulf Coast Sanctuary, or The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum. These stops are not only entertaining, but they also allow visitors to see uncommon animals and learn more about conservation efforts.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Location

Maria’s Garden - Punta Gorda, FL

This nursery carries an incredible variety of succulents and desert roses. Their staff is knowledgeable and ready to help to ensure you choose a plant that’s suitable for your home or RV. If you don’t need a plant right now, consider purchasing plant pots or other available products. This Harvest Hosts location offers one pet-friendly site for an RV up to thirty feet in length.

Port Aransas Beach - Mustang Island, Texas

Port Aransas Beach is fairly close to Corpus Christi and Mustang Island State Park. While Port Aransas Beach is our beach of choice on this peninsula, there is a total of five miles of coastline available for exploration. 

Rainy Day Activities

On Mustang Island, you can find the Port Aransas Museum & Farleys Historic Boat Shop, which is one of the top-rated local attractions. If you head inland on a rainy day, be sure to stop by Sea Turtle Inc or Island Cinema.

Harvest Hosts Location

Live Oak Country Club - Rockport, TX

This reasonably-priced golf course is open year round and features nine holes. They have an on-site restaurant and regularly feature events. This Harvest Hosts location offers one pet-friendly site for an RV up to thirty feet in length.

Front Beach - Ocean Springs, Mississippi

The beach stretches from Biloxi Bay to Ocean Springs. Similar to those on the Panhandle, beachgoers here are treated to white sands and dunes. No beach is complete without a pier and ample fishing opportunities. After a day at the beach, head to downtown Ocean Springs to eat, shop, and explore. 

Rainy Day Activities

On a rainy day, consider paying a visit to the Walter Anderson Museum of Art or the Ocean Springs Museum of History. There are also several specialty gift shops around town that can be fun to visit as well.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Locations

Fort Bayou Brewing Company - Ocean Springs, MS

Fort Bayou Brewing Company is a nano-brewery featuring The Cypress Taphouse. The Cypress Taphouse itself serves its own brews as well as guest brews and incredible food at their adjoining restaurant. They also try to keep the atmosphere fun with regular events and game nights. This Harvest hosts location offers seven pet-friendly sites for RVs of any size.

Green Woods Stable RV Park - Biloxi, MS

At Green Woods Stable RV Park, RVers have the choice to boondock or upgrade to full hookups (for a fee). This working farm has plenty of horses to see and many ways to support the business through the purchase of feed bags, horse lessons, and more. They have one pet-friendly site available for an RV up to forty-four feet in length. 

Great Lakes

The Great Lakes make up some of the largest bodies of freshwater in the world. These lakes are so large that visiting their shores almost feels like visiting the ocean, making these a perfect beach trip in the summer. For many folks living in the Midwest, a trip to the Great Lakes is akin to a trip to the beach, hence our inclusion of these amazing areas in this guide.

Oval Beach - Saugatuck, MI

For those living near Lake Michigan, Saugatuck is definitely worth visiting. Home to award-winning beaches with grassy dunes and scenic waterways, you’ll get your beach fix here for sure. 

Rainy Day Activities

Known as the Art Coast of Michigan, the Saugatuck area area has always inspired artists. Because of that, there are tons of incredible art galleries, exhibits, and art museums to visit here.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Locations

Modales Wines - Fennville, MI

What once started as a historic farming property is now a prosperous craft winery. At Modales Wines, they produce a variety of white and red handcrafted wines. This popular Harvest Hosts location offers three sites for RVs up to thirty feet in length.

Fenn Valley Vineyards - Fennville, MI

This family-owned winery produces wines with grapes grown right on the shore of Lake Michigan. The Welsch family moved from Chicago and specifically chose this 240-acre farm for the home of Fern Valley Vineyards. Now, they produce a variety of white, red, and pink wines and also offer tours and tastings for guests. This Harvest Hosts location has six pet-friendly sites available for RVs of any size. 

Waypost Brewing Co - Fennville, MI

Situated on a fifty-eight-acre berry farm, Waypost Brewing Co produces brews inspired by their farm. With a variety of drafts, cans, and bottles, there’s something for everyone to try here. Be sure to check out their event calendar for yoga classes, garden parties, live music, and more. This Harvest Hosts location offers five pet-friendly sites for RVs of any size.

Presque Isle State Park - Erie, PA

Presque Isle State Park is designated as a National Natural Landmark and is situated on a 3,200-acre peninsula. Within that peninsula are seven miles of sandy beaches, perfect for visiting and beaching. Those living in northeastern Pennsylvania know this area all too well as the local beach spot.

Rainy Day Activities

Those still looking to hit the water on a rainy day can visit the Splash Lagoon indoor water park resort that’s been voted one of the top ten in the country. The Erie Maritime Museum is also a great educational stop.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Location

Lavery Brewing Company - Erie, PA

What started as homebrewing fun quickly became a successful brewery in 2009. Located in downtown Erie, this location is now considered a community staple. Be sure to check out what they have on tap, and plan to enjoy some amazing food prepared by their on-site chef. This Harvest Hosts location offers one pet-friendly space for an RV up to forty feet in length.

Park Point Recreation Area - Duluth, MN

No matter what time of year you visit, Duluth is an excellent stop. However, Park Point Recreation Area in the summer is a must-see area. This lakeside beach has plenty to do and even offers pavilion rentals. It’s the perfect combination of both a local park and a local beach.

Rainy Day Activities

Rich in history, Duluth offers plenty of educational stops. From the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center to the North Shore Scenic Railroad and the Great Lakes Aquarium, there’s something for everyone here.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Locations

Wild State Cider - Duluth, MN Wild State Cider produces “naturally good” cider without any concentrates, added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or potassium sorbate. From dry flavors to those considered sweet, fruity, light, or summery, they’ve got a cider for every taste and every season. If you find yourself at the beach in Duluth in the summer, be sure to stop by for some tropical ciders. This Harvest Hosts location offers one pet-friendly site for an RV up to thirty feet in length.

Canosia Grove - Duluth, MN

What was once a forty-acre dairy farm is now a collaborative permaculture farm. At Canosia Grove, they raise bees and Icelandic sheep, and they also produce incredible ciders from their own apples grown without pesticides. This Harvest Hosts location has one spot available for an RV up to thirty feet in length.

Oscoda Beach Park - Oscoda, MI

Another perfect blend of both a local park and a beach, Oscoda Beach Park has gorgeous green grass that meets the sand, as well as plenty to see and enjoy. It’s located near downtown amenities and stops and is the perfect place for a walk on the boardwalk. 

Rainy Day Activities

On a rainy day, aviation fans will enjoy a trip to the Wurtsmith Air Museum. For little ones with lots of energy, consider stopping by any of the nearby indoor play areas or make the trip to Legoland for a family fun adventure.

Nearby Harvest Hosts Locations

Alcona Brew Haus - Harrisville, MI

This brewery not only brews their own artisanal beers but also takes great pride in the incredible foods that they serve. At Alcona Brew Haus, they make their own pizza dough, smoke their own meats, and are both allergy and vegan-friendly. Alcona strives to make everyone feel welcome and has something to offer for everyone. This Harvest Hosts location has two pet-friendly sites available for RVs of any size.

Wicker Hills Golf Club - Hale, MI

Wicker Hills is a gorgeous eighteen-hole golf course nestled right along the Huron National forest. The course is not only stunning, but also affordable to play. Feel free to use their practice facilities and stop by their bar and grill after a day at the beach. This Harvest Hosts location has one space available for an RV up to thirty-five feet in length.

A summer beach trip in your RV is an incredible vacation idea that is perfect for the whole family. Be sure to check out the locations above if you are in the area, or even consider choosing one to plan your vacation around it. Next time you’re heading out on an RV trip, be sure to check out nearby Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome locations, as well. You may be able to use these overnight stays exclusively to provide yourself with safer, nicer, and friendlier options, as opposed to overnight-ing in campgrounds or parking lots. With Harvest Hosts, the possibilities are endless!

Have you taken your RV to any beaches? What’s your favorite summer spot? What's your ultimate favorite beach? Tell us all about it in the comments below!