Beaches are always a popular vacation destination in the summer, so it’s no surprise that bookings for rentals providing easy access to the sand are in high demand during the season, especially in Florida.
You might think famous stretches like Siesta, Pensacola, and Clearwater beaches—with some of the state’s prettiest white sands—would top the list, but according to Vrbo, you’d be wrong.
Florida’s 30A
The vacation rental company recently revealed its list of the top beach destinations for travelers booking beachfront homes in 2025, and Florida’s 30A claimed the No. 1 spot. If you aren’t from the area, 30A refers to a 24-mile stretch of scenic County Road 30A along the Gulf Coast in South Walton County. It includes several charming beach towns with access to powder sugar-like sands, including Watercolor, Alys Beach, Grayton Beach, Rosemary Beach, and Seaside.
Not only can you enjoy an oceanfront stay along Florida’s 30A, but you’ll also find a wide range of activities. Swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the calm, brilliant turquoise waters; exploring the serene coastal dune lakes; golfing; and hiking or biking scenic trails are just a few options. There’s plenty of boutique shopping and opportunities for dining on fresh seafood, too.
If you’re looking for other beach vacation ideas, consider some of Vrbo’s other highly ranked destinations for beachfront vacation homes.
Wilmington, North Carolina
While the unspoiled beaches along the Cape Lookout National Seashore are some of our favorites in North Carolina, Wilmington is home to two of the state’s most iconic beaches: Wrightsville and Carolina Beach. Wrightsville features a vibrant boardwalk with shops and restaurants and is renowned for surfing, offering opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and dolphin watching. Carolina Beach also has a lively boardwalk with live entertainment, rides, and arcades, along with soft sands and rolling waves.
The Hamptons, New York
30A has been called “The Hamptons of the South,” but for those in New York City looking for an upscale destination with high-end shopping, fine dining, and a vibrant social scene that attracts celebrities, The Hamptons are the place to go up north. As Vrbo notes, there are many beautiful white sandy beaches here, from Southampton to Montauk. Montauk boasts an iconic lighthouse, and throughout the nearly 30-mile stretch, you’ll find opportunities to sunbathe, swim, kayak, paddleboard, and surf.
Hilton Head, South Carolina
PrivacyJournal recently conducted a study that found Myrtle Beach was the most searched beach town in the U.S., but Vrbo lists Hilton Head as the ideal upscale alternative beachgoers are seeking, particularly for those who want a mix of beach and golf. It’s home to over 20 championship courses and many spectacular beaches like Coligny—often ranked among the country’s most beautiful—with all the necessary facilities and close proximity to an endless array of shopping and dining options.
