Adeline Courtney, '27 & Charlotte Figler, '27
With summer on the horizon, Ensworth families and teens are searching for their next vacation spot. Only a couple hours of driving away are some of the best beaches this country has to offer. Read below about some of our favorites.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina:
If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach packed with activities and beautiful beaches, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is the place to go. With 60 miles of shoreline and mild waters, the beach offers jet skiing and many kinds of fishing. As for activities on land, there are golf courses designed by famous golfers such as Arnold Palmer and amusement and water parks galore. Not to mention, the restaurants and top-tier hotels that accommodate any guest. For those who want a more relaxing vacation, there is 24/7 free beach access for tanning, swimming, and more. (U.S. News). The average price of accommodation in Myrtle Beach is around $180 per night, with the average price for three days being $539 per night. Given the overall cost of living and traveling, the price for a stay at this beach is not as expensive as others. Along with its affordable stay, Myrtle Beach is also a short drive or flight away with a 1 hour and 25-minute non-stop flight and a doable 9 and 35-minute drive from Nashville, TN.
Clearwater, Florida:
Just along the coastline of Tampa Bay, Florida, Clearwater Beach is perfect for those who love nature and being outdoors. Being the number one visited beach in America year-round, the beach offers many parks for strolling, hiking, and biking, along with many golf courses. The beach features places to eat and shop, like the Pelican Walk Plaza, but also has many things to do out on the water. Sunset cruises are popular, and others enjoy kayaking and surfing the warm Gulf waters (Hotels.com). Luckily, Clearwater, Florida, is an easy 1-hour and 45-minute non-stop flight and an 11-hour drive from Nashville, TN. The average price for a luxury hotel in Clearwater is $278 per night, while the average price for a budget hotel is $133 per night. While some stay in hotels, it is more popular to rent an Airbnb, especially if you are staying in a larger group.
Destin, Florida:
With white sandy beaches and community all around, Destin, Florida, is the perfect place to be. One of the main attractions of the beach is Crab Island: a big group full of anchored boats. Boats with food and drinks circle around, and people can be found sliding down water slides, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and more. A short distance away is Harborwalk Village. The village houses many restaurants, bars, shops, and activities for those of all ages. (DestinFlorida.com). This beach has a bit of a steeper price to stay in a hotel, with the average price for a luxury hotel being $747 per night and a budget hotel being $242 per night. Destin’s beautiful beaches and abundance of activities make it worth the visit this summer. While it is one of the pricier beaches, it is only a 1-hour and 30-minute flight and a 7-hour drive away from Nashville, TN.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina:
Best for golf and tennis, Hilton Head is perfect for people who love activity. With over 250+ restaurants on the island, Hilton Head is also known for its seafood. It contains over 12 miles of beaches, which are perfect for just sitting or enjoying multiple different types of water activities. The drive to this beautiful town can also be completed from multiple airports in under an hour. (Ellis) The average price for a luxury hotel in Hilton Head is $472 per night, while the average price of a more cost-friendly hotel is $274 per night. Most hotels have a pool, beautiful rooms, and some are even beachfront with a nice view out your window. The island of Hilton Head can be reached in a longer 3-hour and 40-minute flight, with an 8-hour drive from Nashville, TN.
Orange Beach/Gulf Shores, Alabama:
While not your typical beach in Florida, Orange Beach is also known for its beautiful setting and crystal-clear water. There is never a dull moment at this location, offering tons of activities such as museums, parks, and if you go at the right time, music festivals and concerts. The Gulf of Mexico beaches are close by and convenient, and this town is a great way to experience the beautiful waters. (Sims) With over 150 hotels, there are many options to fit your budget. The average price for a budget hotel in Orange Beach is $213 per night, and for a luxury hotel, it’s $582 per night. Airbnbs and rental houses are also available in the area. This beach can be reached with a light 1-hour and 20-minute flight and a 7-and-a-half-hour drive.
Venice Beach, Florida:
Just south of Sarasota, Venice Beach has over 14 miles of crystal clear waters. Fish on the 700 foot Venice fishing pier, swim in the Gulf waters, dive a reef, or find some of the prehistoric fossilized shark teeth found along the beaches. Not just known for their water activities, enjoy a range of food from international cuisine, fresh seafood, or just family-friendly dining. If staying indoors is what you want, there are plenty of theater and symphony performances to attend. (Visit Florida) To arrive at Venice Beach, one must take a 1-hour and 50-minute flight and enjoy an 11-and-a-half-hour drive. The lowest price for a hotel in Venice Beach is around $72 per night, with the highest price being $243 per night.