10 Drive-Up Beaches Nobody Talks About (But Locals Love)

The sunshine, sand, and sound of the waves crashing onto the shore make a beach day one of the most perfect escapes. But, the logistics can make anyone weary—namely, the long trek from a vehicle to the water while carrying chairs, umbrellas, kites, coolers, and other gear. Fortunately, the best drive-up beaches in the U.S. eliminate this hassle.

At these unique beaches, you can drive right to the water, making a day trip that much better. Each one offers gorgeous scenery and is a local favorite—and after a single visit, you’ll quickly understand why.

1. East Beach, Rhode Island

While driving on most Rhode Island beaches is generally not allowed, East Beach in Charlestown is an exception. This is an undeveloped barrier beach, best known for its remote location and spectacular wildlife sightings. It is home to the East Beach Sand Trail, where you can hop in a 4x4 vehicle and escape the busy crowds of many surrounding beaches.

You must have a Barrier Beach Permit to explore this trail, and you cannot drive on the dunes or within 75 feet of the dune crest. You will also need to pay a beach parking fee unless you have a registered campsite. However, it's worth it, given that its a spot that can feel like a Caribbean paradise in Rhode Island.

2. Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts

Cape Cod National Seashore is certainly not a hidden gem, but its ORV Corridors allow you to find a little quiet in this popular destination. The Cape Cod National Seashore ORV Driving Corridor is a beach route located between Race Point Lighthouse and Head of the Meadow Beach in Truro. Here, all off-road vehicles are limited to the backshore area of the beaches (which are marked), but be aware that it may be closed due to beach conditions or shorebird nesting activity.

The ORV corridor is seasonal, open only from April 15 to November 15, and permits are required. Additional permits are also required if you plan to camp on Race Point Beach. With just a little extra planning, you can enjoy a beautiful day on wheels at one of Massachusetts' favorite destinations.

3. Island Beach State Park, New Jersey

New Jersey’s Island Beach State Park is a gorgeous location to visit for so many reasons—the white sandy beaches in this state park are stunning and home to more than 400 identified plants, as well as the largest osprey colony in New Jersey. But, it is unique compared to other drive-up beaches around the U.S.. Beach driving at this state park is not allowed for recreational purposes, but is permitted to access certain fishing areas.

To drive on the beach, you will need a Mobile Sport Fishing Vehicle Permit, and you are required to carry specific safety equipment in your vehicle. Park rangers regularly inspect vehicles at certain sand access points to ensure all requirements are met.

4. Carova Beach, North Carolina

North Carolina Highway 12 ends north of Corolla on the northern tip of the Outer Banks, but an adventure doesn't need to stop there. Instead, any adventurer can opt to take a 4x4 vehicle can out onto the sand to explore. In this area, you won’t find businesses, homes, or crowded beaches. Rather, this North Carolina beach is known for its remote location, peaceful vibe, and herds of wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs.

These horses are believed to be descendants of European Explorers from centuries ago, and as they wander, they create breathtaking scenes with the ocean as their backdrop. Because of the wild horses, you must exercise caution on the beach and stay at least 50 feet from the horses at all times. Swimming is allowed, but no lifeguards are on duty. Pets are also allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times, and camping is not permitted on the beach.

5. Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland and Virginia

Assateague Island National Seashore is an incredible coastal escape. This 37-mile barrier island is not only known for its natural beauty, but also for its wild horses, trails, camping, and surfing opportunities. It’s also one of the best places in Maryland and Virginia for beach driving.

Here, you can explore the Over-Sand Vehicle (OSV) Zone, which contains miles of sandy shores for you to explore. Permits are required for beach driving, and while beach camping is available in certain areas, an additional permit is needed. Make sure to follow all signs and regulations in the OSV Zone as areas may be closed for bird nesting.

6. Amelia Island State Park, Florida

Florida's Daytona Beach is the most popular place for beach driving in the U.S., and it draws thousands of people. Fortunately, if you are looking for a place in Florida that's lesser-known and much quieter for driving on the sand, you can head to Amelia Island State Park.

Here, you’ll find several miles of undeveloped shorelines to explore and beautiful views of the ocean, salt marshes, and maritime forests. You’ll want to arrive early as this state park only allows 300 people to enter at a time, and will remain closed until 150 people drive out of the park gates. There is a $2 per person entrance fee, and the park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset.

7. Silver Lake Sand Dunes Beach, Michigan

Silver Lake Sand Dunes may not be a hidden gem, but it’s certainly a local favorite and driving directly on the sand is a must-do experience here. While the beach and the incredible views are certainly worth experiencing, the 450-acre off-road vehicle area is one of the highlights of this Michigan spot.

You can easily spend hours driving over the shifting sand, but keep in mind that you cannot drive directly on the shore or to the swimming beach; you will also need to pay park entry, have a Michigan ORV license, and obtain an ORV trail permit. Plus, a 10-foot-tall orange flag must be mounted on your front bumper or on the highest point of your vehicle so you are visible to other drivers as you explore the dunes.

8. Padre Island National Seashore, Texas

Padre Island National Seashore is another destination in the U.S. that draws in visitors from all over. This narrow barrier island is managed by the National Park Service, which protects 66 miles of coastline along the Gulf of America. While many of the beaches here are quite busy, you can find a spot all your own by driving on the sand and traveling down the island.

Several remote beaches at Padre Island are only available by driving on the sand, including Little Shell Beach, Big Shell Beach, and Yarborough Pass. No special permits are required for beach driving, although you will need to pay the vehicle entrance fee to access the Padre Island National Seashore. Beach camping is only allowed on specific beaches.

9. Long Beach Peninsula, Washington

The town of Long Beach, Washington, is certainly worth a visit all by itself, but it’s also home to the World’s Longest Drivable Beach. The Long Beach Peninsula offers 28 miles of beautiful sand and approximately 20 miles of drivable beach. In fact, the sand is actually designated as a state highway (a slow state highway with a 25 mph speed limit) that takes you from the mouth of the Columbia River to Leadbetter Point.

Four-wheel drive vehicles are strongly recommended, and you’ll always want to check the tide before you venture onto the sand. You don’t need any special permits to drive here, but your vehicle must be road legal, and all drivers must have a valid driver’s license (this is a highway, after all). Also, keep in mind that certain sections of the road are closed during the summer months to protect nesting wildlife and beachgoers.  

10. Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, California

While some beaches in the Golden State allow you to park on the sand, there are very few that allow for beach driving. However, Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area is one of the few places that do. Here, you’ll find up to 8 miles of beach driving opportunities, but drivers should be cautious as winds can alter dunes and there may be drop-offs, soft sand, or other hazards. Oceano Dunes SVRA is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and day-use passes are sold on a first-come basis. However, if you are up for even more adventure, primitive beach camping is available here.

There are many stunning beaches in the U.S., but some of the most unforgettable places are those that allow you to drive on the sand. These unique beaches add a bit of excitement to your day outdoors, but preparedness is key. Before visiting any drive-up beaches in the U.S., verify any necessary permits and ensure you have all safety equipment readily accessible, such as shovels and tow straps. And always check tide schedules.

If you are looking for even more unique beaches around the U.S., check out these fascinating destinations that range from colorful beaches to a beach that sings. And make sure you add these gorgeous spots where sand is the star of the show to your bucket list.