Coastal Camping: Beaches Where You Can Pitch Your Tent

1 October 2025

There’s something magical about waking up to the sound of waves crashing just a few feet away, salty sea breeze filling your lungs, and the sunrise painting the sky in hues of pink and orange. If that doesn’t sound dreamy, are you even living? Coastal camping is not just a vacation—it’s an experience that hits you right in the feels. Whether you're an avid camper or just someone who likes the idea of sleeping under the stars with the beach as your backyard, this guide’s got you. We’re diving into the best beachside campgrounds where you can pitch your tent, kick off your flip-flops, and let nature take the wheel.

Why Coastal Camping Should Be on Your Bucket List

Let’s be real—regular camping has its charm. Forests, mountains, national parks… they’re all beautiful. But coastal camping takes things up a notch. It’s like adding hot sauce to your favorite dish—it just hits differently.

You get the best of both worlds: the serenity of nature and the thrill of the ocean. Think bonfires in the sand, stargazing with the lullaby of the waves, fresh sea breeze, and a beach to yourself at sunrise. What’s not to love?

And the perks? Oh, they’re real:
- Spectacular views (hello, Instagram!)
- Cooler temps with that ocean breeze
- Water adventures like kayaking, paddleboarding, or just floating around doing your best starfish impression

So, ready to find your perfect slice of sandy paradise? Let’s roll.

1. Assateague Island, Maryland/Virginia – Where Wild Ponies Roam

Ever wanted to share your camping spot with wild horses? Assateague Island is a dream come true. Stretching over 37 miles, this barrier island is home to wild ponies that roam freely. Yes, freely.

Why Camp Here?

You get those untouched Atlantic beaches, pristine dunes, and wildlife galore. Plus, the campgrounds (run by the National Park Service) are literally steps from the beach. Wake up, unzip your tent, and bam—ocean view.

Pro Tips:

- Sites fill up fast in summer. Book ahead!
- Bring bug spray—the mosquitoes here are not shy.
- Don't feed the ponies. No matter how much they stare with those adorable eyes.

2. Kalaloch Beach, Washington – Moody Vibes and Driftwood Palaces

Located in Olympic National Park, Kalaloch Beach is endlessly photogenic. Picture windswept trees, dramatic coastlines, and mysterious morning fog blanketing the beach like a cozy sweater.

Why Camp Here?

The Kalaloch Campground offers over 170 sites perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific. It's rustic, wild, and refreshingly off-grid. No cell signal to distract you from nature’s show.

Must-Do’s:

- Snap a selfie with the gravity-defying Tree of Life.
- Explore nearby Ruby Beach—arguably one of the most beautiful in the Northwest.
- Watch bald eagles soar overhead. Seriously majestic.

3. Jekyll Island, Georgia – Southern Charm Meets Sandy Shores

Jekyll Island is coastal camping with a southern twist. It's peaceful, historic, and downright charming.

Why Camp Here?

The Jekyll Island Campground mixes dense maritime forest with access to Driftwood Beach, one of the dreamiest spots on the East Coast. Plus, the island’s loaded with bike trails, historic homes, and great seafood shacks.

Camper Tips:

- Rent a bike and ride the 25+ miles of scenic trails.
- Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center (cute overload guaranteed).
- Sunrise at Driftwood Beach? Worth setting your alarm for.

4. Second Beach, Washington – Backpack In, Zen Out

If you love the idea of a little adventure before setting up camp, Second Beach is your spot. Located on the Olympic Peninsula, this beach requires a short hike through an enchanting forest to reach your campsite. And when you pop out of the trees onto the wide, wild beach? Goosebumps.

Why Camp Here?

Seclusion, dramatic sea stacks, and tide pools teeming with life. It’s minimalist beach camping in all the best ways.

What to Know:

- This one’s backpacking only—pack light and bring a bear canister.
- Campfires are allowed (score!) but only with driftwood below the high tide line.
- Leave no trace. The beach is pristine—let’s keep it that way.

5. Homer Spit, Alaska – For the Adventurous Soul

Okay, so this one’s for the bold. Camping on Homer Spit is not your average beach trip. Think cold, rugged, and mind-blowingly beautiful.

Why Camp Here?

You’re literally camping on a narrow finger of land stretching into Kachemak Bay. Wake up to snow-capped mountains reflecting in the water. It’s otherworldly.

Pro Tips:

- Pack warm—even in summer, it gets chilly.
- The local seafood? Next level. Have some halibut, thank me later.
- Spot sea otters, bald eagles, and maybe even whales!

6. Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina – Wild and Wonderful

Love remote vibes? Cape Lookout is only reachable by boat, and oh boy, is it worth the journey. Once you're there, it's just you, the sea, and the sky.

Why Camp Here?

This 56-mile stretch of undeveloped beach is a sanctuary for anyone wanting to get far, far away. You can camp literally anywhere along the seashore.

Tips For Happy Camping:

- There are zero amenities, so bring everything you need.
- Watch out for nesting turtles in summer.
- Stargazing here is unreal—bring your telescope or just lie back and soak it in.

7. Point Mugu State Park, California – Beach Camping, SoCal Style

Located just off Pacific Coast Highway, Point Mugu is the kind of spot where surfers catch waves in the morning, and campers chill by the fire pit at night.

Why Camp Here?

Dramatic cliffs, roaring surf, and trails for days. You’re close enough to LA to get there quickly, but far enough to feel like you’ve escaped the chaos.

Don’t Miss:

- The scenic drive along Highway 1.
- Tidepool hopping at low tide.
- Epic sunsets—no filter needed.

8. Assilomar State Beach, California – Peace, Love, and Pacific Views

This one’s more lowkey, but oh-so-lovely. Located near Monterey, Assilomar has a relaxed vibe with gorgeous coastal trails and crashing surf.

Why Camp Here?

Plenty of nearby campgrounds (like Veterans Memorial Park) make it easy to sleep under the stars while being a stone’s throw from the beach.

Highlight Reels:

- Explore the charming town of Pacific Grove.
- Watch for sea lions and harbor seals sunbathing like pros.
- Hit up the Monterey Bay Aquarium for an educational detour.

9. Bahia Honda State Park, Florida – Caribbean Vibes Without the Passport

Florida Keys, baby. Camping in Bahia Honda gives you white sand, turquoise water, and palm trees swaying in the breeze. Are we even in the U.S. still?

Why Camp Here?

It’s paradise with picnic tables. Snorkeling, kayaking, swimming with tropical fish—it’s all on the menu.

Helpful Hints:

- Book early—this place is popular for a reason.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen (protect those corals!).
- Don’t miss the Old Bahia Honda Bridge views.

10. Waiʻānapanapa State Park, Maui – Black Sand Beauty

If you're up for a tropical twist, head to Maui’s lush north coast where Waiʻānapanapa delivers unreal black sand beaches, lava tubes, and oceanfront camping.

Why Camp Here?

You’re in Hawaii. Need I say more? Camping permits are required, but the effort is 100% worth it.

Must-Have Experiences:

- Walk the coastal lava trail at sunrise.
- Swim in the freshwater caves (if you dare).
- Enjoy papayas under palm trees like a true islander.

Pack Like a Pro: Coastal Camping Essentials

Let’s talk gear. Beach camping isn’t just "grab a tent and go." The coast has its moods—windy, sandy, salty, sometimes soggy.

Here's a quick checklist:
- A sturdy tent with good ventilation (and sand-resistant zippers!)
- A tarp or footprint to keep the sand out
- Sand stakes (trust me, regular ones won’t cut it)
- Bug spray & sunscreen (your two besties)
- Lightweight layers (temps can drop fast at night)
- Water-resistant matches or a lighter
- A good old-fashioned beach towel (or five)

And of course, always check local regulations for fire rules, permits, and wildlife etiquette.

Tips for a Blissful Beach Campout

Alright, now that you’re pumped, here are a few golden rules to keep in mind:
- Leave No Trace: Pack it in, pack it out. Let’s keep these beaches beautiful.
- Respect Wildlife: Whether it's sea lions or seagulls, admire from a distance.
- Check the Tides: Don’t set up where the ocean wants to play tag.
- Watch the Weather: Coastal storms can roll in fast—keep an eye on the forecast.

Final Thoughts: Your Tent, The Stars, and The Sea

There’s no better way to reset your soul than pitching a tent steps away from the surf. Whether you want rugged wilderness or a laid-back island vibe, there’s a coastal campsite with your name on it. So dust off that tent, grab your flip-flops, and let the coast be your haven. Life’s just better when your living room has sand on the floor and the ceiling is made of stars.

Happy camping, beach bum.