It's time to start thinking about summer vacation.
With beach season fast approaching, TripAdvisor subsidiary Family Vacation Critic has revealed its 10 Best U.S. Beaches for Families in 2015.
But while location and affordability matter when it comes to selecting a vacation destination, Family Vacation Critic's list takes into account a variety of different factors.
"When choosing the top family-friendly beaches, we consider a number of factors - it's not just beautiful sands and picturesque views," said Family Vacation Critic editor-in-chief Lissa Poirot. "Beyond clean, safe beaches, we're looking for beaches that offer a well-rounded experience for families - accommodations, dining and entertainment within close distance of the beach, and plenty to keep the whole family entertained while in town."
The editors at Family Vacation Critic stopped short of ranking the top beaches, but here's a look at what they came up with for 2015:
Cape May Beach - Cape May, New Jersey
Carlsbad State Beach - Carlsbad, California
Crescent Beach - Block Island, Rhode Island
Fort De Soto Park - St. Petersburg, Florida
Kings Beach - Lake Tahoe, California
Lincoln City Beach - Lincoln City, Oregon
Manatee County Beach - Holmes Beach, Florida
Ogunquit Beach - Ogunquit, Maine
Rehoboth Beach - Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Virginia Beach - Virginia Beach, Virginia
The list features an excellent mix of beaches from all over the U.S, with the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf Coast each being represented by multiple destinations.
However, the absence of well-known popular beach destinations like Miami, Maui and Malibu serve as a reminder that Family Vacation Critic is taking a different set of criteria into account. Family-friendly facilities, events and activities are easy to come across in these serene locales that often cater to families.
But while 2015's top 10 beaches are ideal for traveling families with young children, many of them appeal to singles and younger couples and groups as well. Virginia Beach, for example, features a plethora of nightlife and entertainment options that attract individuals and groups of all ages year after year.
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