The 10 Best Beach Trips in May

Awesome spots for sand, surf, and off-season fun!

Is summer vacation feeling just a little too far away? We’ve got you! May is the perfect time for enjoying ahhh-mazing beach weather, without summer’s heat, high prices, and crowds. And from sunshine to surf, these oceanfront spots deliver, you guys. These are the best beach trips in May, and they’re perfect for a last-minute spring escape!

Ready to get a head-start on the summer fun? Check out one of these beaches in May!

• Coronado Beach, CA

  Enjoy a laid-back getaway at this dreamy SoCal destination!

  Just across the bay from San Diego, Coronado Beach has gorgeously warm weather, thanks to that California sunshine. And unlike other Pacific hot spots, the waves are gentle enough for swimming or paddleboarding.

  In the evening, pop into the iconic Hotel del Coronado for photo ops and beachfront drinks. Or explore the area: with walkable streets and cute cafes, you’ll have plenty to do on and off the beach!

• Gulf Shores, AL

  Sunny skies + oceanfront living = perfection!

  The water’s warming up, the sand is soft, and the sunsets are stunning. But it’s not just about tanning or splashing. Gulf Shores is fun, you guys! Think beach bars, live music, and fresh-caught seafood with a view.

  Looking for a more laid-back time? Rent a kayak and spend the day dolphin watching at the Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge.

• Folly Beach, SC

  Sightseeing and sea breezes? Yes, please!

  Folly Beach is a surfer’s paradise with steady waves and warm waters. Not a surfer? There’s still plenty to do! Stretch out on the sand, grab fish tacos, or rent a beach cruiser.

  Or head into nearby Charleston for some of its famous Lowcountry cuisine. You have plenty of time to explore the pastel streets and still be back in time for oceanfront stargazing!

• Hilton Head Island, SC

  Looking for a more active beach vacation?

  Hilton Head Island has 12 miles of pristine beaches, perfect for morning walks and afternoon splashing. But there’s also so much more to do: kayaking, paddleboarding, sunset bike rides, even dolphin-spotting cruises.

• Or work on your swing; Hilton Head is famous for its world-class golf courses. And be sure to climb the lighthouse—the views at the top are simply amazing!

• Key West, FL

  Is there an island more iconic than Key West?

  The island stands out as one of the best beach trips in May. It’s warm and breezy, but not quite steamy or touristy—yet. So you can enjoy the uncrowded beaches and laid-back energy. The crystal-clear water is warm enough for snorkeling, jet skiing, or just floating the day away.

  Key West’s quirky charm continues off the beach. Explore the pastel streets and sip a tropical cocktail, and don’t miss the sunsets!

• Santa Monica Beach, CA

  Who can resist a Ferris wheel with an ocean view?

  One of our favorite beach trips in May blends classic California vibes with high-flying energy—literally! Santa Monica Beach itself is pretty awesome, with over 2 miles of wide sandy shores and beginner-friendly waves.

  But probably the biggest beach draw is the lively pier. Think vintage carnival rides, prime people-watching, and epic ocean views!

• Siesta Key Beach, FL

  Looking for a postcard-perfect beach? Um, you’ve just found it!

  Siesta Key Beach is a regular on the lists of best beaches, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a classic Gulf beach, from the soft white sand to the sparkling turquoise water. And it’s super laid-back, with locals and tourists opting for lazy lounging sessions.

  Be sure to stay for sunset, when the steel drums come out and the sunset gives its nightly show. It’s pure Florida magic, you guys!

• South Padre Island, TX

  Family-friendly fun awaits!

  With Spring Break in the rearview mirror, South Padre Island is easily one of the best beach trips in May. The crowds have cleared out, and the focus is on coastal beauty. You can walk for hours on long stretches of golden sand—there are 34 miles of shoreline!

  The kids will love adventures on and off the beach. Sandcastle building, horseback riding, and dolphin-spotting will leave the whole family full of smiles and memories.

• Tybee Island, GA

  Southern hospitality, with a beachy twist!

  Tybee Island blends Southern charm with coastal beauty. The warm weather is fantastic, and so are the uncrowded shores. And those Atlantic Ocean waters? Perfect for surfing, bodysurfing, and skimboarding.

  Tybee Island’s bike-friendly streets are easy (and fun!) to explore. Be sure to check out the lighthouse, which has been illuminating the Savannah River for almost 300 years! And visit the many beachfront restaurants, where fresh seafood is always on the menu.

• Waikiki Beach, HI

  Aloha, you guys!

  Hula your way over to Oahu for an adventure that combines legendary beach views with big-city vibes. Take surf lessons, sip a mai tai, and top it all off with a sunset catamaran cruise. With Diamond Head in the background and bright blue waves at your feet, it’s easy to see why Waikiki is so popular.

  Vibrant, exciting Honolulu is just steps away. If you’re looking for upscale restaurants and trendy shops, you’ll find them there, for sure!

Ready to get sandy, salty, and suntanned? The best beach trips in May offer all of the summer fun, without the sweltering heat and major crowds.

And to keep your travels as light and breezy as the weather, ship your stuff to your beach hotel or Airbnb with LugLess. No hauling luggage around, no hassles at baggage claim. Just a smooth, easy start to an awesome beach trip!