We know travelling for Memorial Day weekend can be a hassle, so don’t get stuck in a crowd before you leave, just to get right back into one when you arrive. This Memorial Day be different, avoid popular vacation spots, and discover some of America’s hidden gems. The folks at Rubinsohn Travel have pieced together four possible beach destinations that you’ve probably never heard of, won’t be packed with tourists, and will make you wish every weekend was a long one.
Anna Maria Island, Florida
Anna Maria Island is a gorgeous island right off the coast of Manatee County, Florida. Everyone is always hungry after a day of travelling, so once you get there, drop your bags off, and head to the Sandbar Restaurant. Tables are available in the sand, as the restaurant is located right on the water. Dip your toes in the sand, enjoy the fresh and delicious seafood available, and soak in the beautiful view in front of you. After you’re done eating, simply stand up and you’re at the beach! If you are looking for a more secluded, but still public beach, look no further than Bean Point. This beach is located at the very trip of the Island, and maintains a relaxation factor that is hard to come by on most public beaches. The beautiful blue water and soft-white sand make this the perfect place to spend your day at. If you’re looking for a little bit more of an adventurous activity, then give parasailing a whirl at Bradenton Beach! Bradenton Beach Parasailing has been in business for more than 35 years, and maintains its perfect safety record to this day. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see the Gulf Coast like never before.
Jekyll Island, Georgia
A stay at the Jekyll Island Club Resort will make for an unforgettable trip whether you’re travelling as a couple or a family. This historic resort used to serve as a meeting ground for industry titans like the Vanderbilts and Rockefellers. The resort features three distinct accommodation settings; the Island Club rooms, Island Cottages, and Ocean Club Suites. All three will offer a different experience, yet you can’t go wrong with any of the options. The resort features a gorgeous dining hall with a delectable menu, however we recommend spending at least one night dining at The Wharf. This riverfront restaurant features a menu centered around Southern classics, open-air dining, live music, and will certainly make for an entertaining night for everyone in attendance. A complimentary shuttle service is provided to all guests of the resort, enabling everyone the chance to explore all 9 miles of the island’s beautiful beaches. If you brought the kids along and they’re yearning for a fun activity, a complimentary shuttle service is also offered to and from Summer Waves Water Park. The park has multiple water slides, a lazy river, and a large wave pool, making it the perfect place for a family fun-filled day.
Ocracoke Island, North Carolina
A part of North Carolina’s coastal Outer Banks region, Ocracoke Island makes for a beautiful beach getaway that won’t be packed with people. Referred to by locals as “the cure for the common beach,” Ocracoke Island is a unique destination because of its 16 miles of undeveloped beaches. No hotels or condos line the beach, so step out onto the sand, look for miles in each direction, and all you will see is sand, dunes and the ocean. If you’re looking for some excitement, surf boards, kayaks, and waverunners are all available for rent at various locations. Tours are also available, but one of the best ways to explore the island is to rent a golf cart and take a tour of your own. Every restaurant in the town of Ocracoke is locally owned and operated, so you won’t be finding any of your favorite chains on the island. What you will find is freshly prepared food that will melt in your mouth and family style service at every restaurant. The island is especially known for its perfection of marine based cuisine, so we highly recommend something from the sea!
Block Island, Rhode Island
Most people might not think of Rhode Island as a typical vacation destination, but that’s exactly our point! A trip to Block Island will offer a unique experience and take you somewhere you probably never thought of going before. While visiting, head to the Mohegan Bluffs. This doesn’t have to be the first thing you do, but it will wind up being the most rewarding part of your trip. The 150-foot clay cliffs on the south side of the Island offer incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and a rich history. Take the stairs down the cliffs, and arrive at one of the most beautiful and relaxing beaches you will ever come across. It is the perfect place for a picnic and relaxing by the water. Once you get hungry for dinner, The Oar Restaurant is the perfect place to mingle with locals, enjoy a casual atmosphere with a couple drinks, and eat some of the best New England style food you can imagine. The Oar is located right on the water of the Great Salt Pond, and boasts some of the best clam chowder, and lobster rolls around. However, what they’re really known for are their frozen mudslides. They are the perfect combination of a delicious dessert, and an ice-cold cocktail. To fully appreciate the beauty of Block Island’s natural environment, head to Pond and Beyond Kayak for group ecotours around The Great Salt Pond, an area of Block Island filled with nature’s beauty and wildlife. Tours are suitable for even the most inexperienced kayakers, but for those of you with experience, rent one of your own, and create a new scenic route.
Memorial Day is a time for you to get away for a bit, and forget about all the stress that comes with everyday life. This year, allow yourself to try something new, and truly relax by surrounding yourself with loved ones, and avoiding the masses. All four of these locations are unique in their own way, but all of them will provide you with the vacation you’re looking for, and they might even become your new secret go to spot. Book with Rubinsohn Travel today by calling (215) 886-5200, and let’s get started on your Memorial Day getaway.
