SOUTH
Anna Maria Beach Cottages
Enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and the quiet, pristine beach just one hour south of Tampa. All of the 11 traditional Floridian cottages have full kitchens and living rooms (some even have outdoor grills and porches) and are walking distance to the beach. You're also just a short drive from Disney World and Sarasota.
Best time to go: It's best to avoid the month of August, as it is the area's rainiest month. Go during June and July for the best deals.
Details: From $193 during peak season for a one-bedroom cottage; 112 Oak Avenue, Anna Maria, Florida, (941) 778-1503
Sea View Inn
Settle into a rocking chair, cast a crabbing line, or enjoy a quiet walk on the beach just steps outside your room at this authentic 1937 inn. The Sea View is not only known for its private beach, but also for its excellent southern cooking (try the grits and homemade biscuits).
Best time to go: The best weather is from May to August. It's best to avoid September, which is the wettest month in the area.
Details: From $190 for a room with one full-size bed and one twin; 414 Myrtle Avenue, Pawleys Island, South Carolina, (843) 237-4253
WEST
Crystal Cove Beach Cottages
Located inside Crystal Cove State Park on three-and-a-half miles of beautifully restored Pacific coastline, these cottages (a nonprofit restoration effort) offer a step back into 1930s to 1950s California surf culture. All 14 cottages (11 individual and three with shared living areas) have unique layouts and are located directly on the beach. The park also has two restaurants.
Best time to go: The Newport coast is generally mild and sunny, but the cottages (due to their historic nature) are not heavily insulated, so avoid December (the area's coldest month) and February (the area's wettest month).
Details: From $125 for a cottage that sleeps four; 35 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, California, (800) 444-7275
Mar Vista Cottage at Anchor Bay
These historically restored Shaker-Swedish cottages are on a farm within walking distance to the beach. Anchor Bay is a bit rocky, but your family is sure to be entertained by the chickens and gardens on nonbeach days.
Best time to go: Don't come here if you're looking for warm weather. September is the warmest month, but even then, the average high is 68. This is much more of a wetsuit surfing spot.
Details: From $155 for a one-bedroom cottage; 35101 South Highway 1, Shoreline Highway Gualala, California, (877) 855-3522
NORTHWEST
Shamrock Lodgettes Resort and Spa
These 21 rustic yet cozy log cabins have hardwood floors and fireplaces and are just steps away from the beach. Since it's smack in the middle of the mountains, forest, and sea, you have a wide range of activity options—from hiking to sandboarding.
Best time to go: Book August or September when the weather is still nice and the area is less crowded.
Details: From $119 for a two-bedroom cabin; 105 Highway 1015, Yachats, Oregon, (541) 547-3312
Iron Springs Resort
These 28 cabins with full kitchens and porches are located directly on drivable Copalis beach. Since the beach is home to the razor clam, traffic picks up around clam season during the summer, but otherwise the area is quiet and uncrowded.
Best time to go: Avoid December (the wettest month) and come during August to catch the tail end of warm weather without the razor-clam rush.
Details: From $140 for a two-bedroom cottage; 3707 State Route 109, Copalis Beach, Washington, (360) 276-4260
NORTHEAST
The Colony Hotel
Situated on rocks overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and within walking distance to the beach and the town of Kennebunkport, this hotel has a great location. On-site your family can swim in the saltwater swimming pool or take a self-guided ecology scavenger hunt in the organic gardens. With a focus on local products, environmental education, and recycled materials, this classic beach retreat is as enriching as it is relaxing.
Best time to go: The best beach months are July and August.
Details: $129 for a garden room with a king/queen bed with room for a rollaway bed; 140 Ocean Avenue, Kennebunkport, Maine, (800) 552-2363
The Beach Walk Hotel
Stay just steps away from Ocean City's boardwalk and the beach. Your family can ditch the car and spend the days biking down the boardwalk or lounging on one of the big beachside porches.
Best time to go: The hotel is only open from May to September, and though it's always busy, you can't go wrong with the weather during that time.
Details: From $145 for a room with two queen-size beds; 2 North 10th Street, Ocean City, Maryland, (877) 445-4959
