Hottest Vegan Friendly Beach Towns for Your 2023 Summer Break
School’s out! It’s time to pack your bags, throw on your sunglasses, and hit the beach! The United States is home to some of the most charming, exciting, and beautiful beach towns in the world! Thankfully, more and more of these summer retreats have become more vegan friendly over the past five to ten years. So, whether you are on the East coast or on the West coast, you are in for a great vegan holiday!
Vegan-Friendly Beach Towns in the East
Let’s admit it, when you are planning a beach trip you want to feel free indulging in some of your favorite vegan dishes, treats, and maybe even try something new. You don’t want to feel limited when it comes to food on a holiday. Well, these beaches on the East Coast will not disappoint. They are filled with plenty of juicy vegan options on the ocean shores and in the grocery stores!
1. Long Island, NY
Let’s start up North, shall we? In addition to its expansive beaches and charm you can find many vegan options here that will be sure to satisfy your tummy.
After a long day in the sun, you can indulge yourself at the 3 Brother’s Vegan Cafe for homemade Italian dishes; they even make their own cheese! Make sure to hit up the Green Street Eatery for the vegan brunch of your dreams!
Pro Tip: Long Island can be an expensive pick, so make sure to take advantage of their vegan-friendly markets like Wild By Nature to save some cash for your outdoor beach adventures!
2. Bethany Beach, Delaware
Next stop, a very charming, old fashioned beach town near other popular beaches like Ocean City. Take a walk down Bethany’s old wooden boardwalk and indulge in a classic – boardwalk fries!
Another vegan holiday must is ice cream, am I right? Well, you are in luck since Maureen’s ice cream shop has some of the creamiest vegan ice cream and really hits home in a milkshake. On a rainy day, be sure to check out 3bb Cafe when you are craving a scone or some coffee.
Pro Tip: You can shop at grocery stores like Giant where you will find a very large selection of vegan friendly meats, pastas, ice cream, gummies, and more!
3. St. Augustine Beach, Florida
Let’s head down south to one of the East coast’s most charming beach town gems. Walk along the beach, enjoy the old town, pop in and out of art galleries, and maybe see an alligator or two, all in St. Augustine!
When you are in need of something refreshing and healthy, you can make a visit to Crave Food Cafe for a smoothie, wrap, or salad! If you want to get a little fancy, you can stop at the Floridian Restaurant which can accommodate vegan and vegetarian dietary needs.
Pro Tip: Many eateries in St. Augustine offer vegan options, even if it is not a strictly vegan spot. So look around at the menus and don’t be afraid to ask the waiters if they can accommodate!
Vegan-Friendly Beach Towns in the West
1. Long Beach, California
Very close to downtown LA, Huntington Beach, and Venice beach, you will find the colorful town of Long Beach. From smoothie bowls and tacos, to cinnamon rolls and more, you are sure to have a full belly in this beach town.
Be sure to check out one of our favorites, The Grain Cafe which is a little off the beaten track of the beach but worth it! Find some great post-swim eats at The Hippea where you can indulge in everything chickpea! I don’t know about you, but a smoothie on the beach is always very refreshing. If you agree, be sure to check out Natura Bowls right on the boardwalk!
Pro Tip: Make sure to check out Long Beach’s Sunday markets on the marina. Here you can find the most delicious array of fresh fruits, veggies, and vegan options like donuts, coffee, and fresh bread!
2. San Diego, California
While roasting in the San Diego heat, you can experience some of the most beautiful beaches on the west coast. Lucily, like most of California, San Diego is home to many vegan friendly restaurants.
For something more eccentric, be sure to stop by Kindred Bar for brunch, dinner, or drinks! You can also find Plant Powered fast food here; one of the first all vegan fast food restaurant chains!
Pro Tip: Visit San Diego in the late summer months to catch the bioluminescence!
So which vegan friendly destination will you choose for your next beach getaway?! Let us know in the comments below. And don’t forget to book vegan friendly accommodation on The Vegan Stay for your next adventure!
Long Island is hardly a town! It’s 120 miles long and full of traffic.