Best 4th of July beach vacations
A star-spangled getaway to the coast
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Squeeze out as much fun and sun as you can this summer by getting a jump-start on your Independence Day plans. Finding the right destination is crucial. What should you look for? Spectacular fireworks, exciting parades, and countless family activities.
Based on the data of our past bookings, one thing is clear—some of the best 4th of July spots are on the water. Take a look at the top 6 coastal destinations for your July celebration.
Featured vacation rental: Middlesex Beach
As the first state admitted to the Union, Delaware is a fitting place to escape and celebrate Independence Day. The charming town of Bethany Beach, just south of Rehoboth Beach, celebrates with a parade kicking off at noon, live music, and of course, fireworks lighting up the night sky at dusk.
In between, stroll down the famous boardwalk and explore the Nature Center, try a few hands of mini-golf at Captain Jack’s Pirate Golf, or check out the unique Blue Room Fine Art Gallery.
Featured vacation rental: Plantation West #1147
Prepare to fall in love with 32 miles of pristine beaches when you head to the Alabama Gulf Coast, which becomes even more spectacular for America’s birthday. Refreshing Gulf waters for swimming, gorgeous beaches for lounging, and plenty of fun things to do around town make it an ideal place to spend the holiday.
Don’t miss the iconic Fishing Pier—that’s also where the annual fireworks celebration display takes place, along with a secondary show nearby at The Wharf in Orange Beach. Both are home to an epic Fourth of July party, so don't worry, there’s no wrong choice.
Featured vacation rental: Island Thunder
Spanning 100 miles of coastline, the Outer Banks is a strip of barrier islands separating the Atlantic Ocean from the North Carolina mainland. Known for its maritime villages and stunning coastal scenery, the Outer Banks is one of the most popular vacation destinations on the East Coast—and, fittingly, also referred to as America’s First Beach.
This year, visitors can head to Manteo for their Fourth of July celebration to participate in an apple pie contest before the party moves over to Roanoke Island Festival Park with live music and a fireworks show.
Featured vacation rental: Navy Door Lake Escape
Massachusetts knows American pride—after all, it was one of the first states to enter the Union. With its dune beaches and quaint villages, it’s no surprise Cape Cod is one of America's most beloved summer vacation destinations.
The region goes all out for the Fourth of July with parties and fireworks all around the coast. One can’t-miss event is Barnstable’s massive annual downtown parade, which includes large floats, motorcycles, marching bands, dogs, and more.
Featured vacation rental: Salty Shore
Though West Coast states have a shorter U.S. history than their East Coast counterparts, there are still plenty of spots to celebrate the patriotic holiday. One perfect example? The Oregon Coast, with more than 350 miles of picturesque shoreline.
For visitors to the northern region, Lincoln City’s Historic Taft District is one of the best places to go for the 4th of July. Live music begins mid-morning, and then the fun moves down to the water for a patriotic boat parade around Devils Lake before the grand finale—a spectacular fireworks display over Taft Waterfront Park at dusk.
Featured vacation rental: Blue Wave
Myrtle Beach transforms into a patriotic paradise for Independence Day, offering sun-soaked celebrations along its 60 miles of pristine coastline. Start your day with the inspiring "Salute from the Shore" flyover, honoring the U.S. military with aircraft soaring above the beaches. At night, the sky ignites with spectacular fireworks displays at multiple locations, including the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, where a dazzling show launches from the Second Avenue Pier at 11 pm.
For a unique vantage point, consider booking a fireworks cruise from Little River, offering an unobstructed view of the coastal pyrotechnics
