Which Atlantic ocean beach is nearest to St. Louis, MO?

Tourist Attractions

By Kristy Tolley

The Search for the Nearest Atlantic Ocean Beach

St. Louis, Missouri, is located in the central United States, far from both the East and West coasts. However, that doesn’t mean that residents of this Midwestern city can’t enjoy a beach vacation on the Atlantic Ocean. Many travelers from St. Louis are interested in finding the nearest Atlantic Ocean beach to their hometown, which can be challenging given the distance. In this article, we will explore the options for Atlantic Ocean beaches that are within driving distance of St. Louis and highlight the closest and most popular destinations.

The Distance Between St. Louis and the Atlantic Ocean

St. Louis is located more than 800 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, which means that it is not possible to reach the coast in a day trip. The drive from St. Louis to the nearest Atlantic Ocean beach takes at least 12 hours, depending on the destination. However, the good news is that there are several beaches that are within driving distance of St. Louis and can be reached in a day or two, making them ideal for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. To determine the closest Atlantic Ocean beach to St. Louis, we need to consider several factors, including distance, driving time, and accessibility.

How to Determine the Closest Beach to St. Louis

There are several ways to determine the closest Atlantic Ocean beach to St. Louis, including using online mapping tools, consulting travel guides, and asking locals for advice. One of the most useful tools for this purpose is Google Maps, which allows users to input their starting point and destination and provides driving directions as well as an estimated travel time. Another option is to consult travel guides and websites that specialize in beach destinations, such as TripAdvisor or Expedia. These resources can provide information on the most popular Atlantic Ocean beaches and their distance from St. Louis, as well as tips on accommodations, activities, and dining options.

Virginia Beach: The Closest Atlantic Ocean Beach to St. Louis

After considering the distance, driving time, and accessibility, Virginia Beach emerges as the closest Atlantic Ocean beach to St. Louis, located approximately 900 miles away. This beach town is situated in the southeastern part of Virginia, on the Atlantic Ocean, and is known for its wide sandy beaches, lively boardwalk, and scenic nature trails. Virginia Beach has a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, as well as plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops. Visitors to Virginia Beach can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing, kayaking, and dolphin watching, as well as exploring the nearby First Landing State Park and Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

Why Virginia Beach is an Ideal Destination for St. Louisans

Virginia Beach is an ideal destination for St. Louisans who are looking for a beach vacation that is within driving distance and offers a variety of activities and attractions. In addition to its beautiful beaches and natural surroundings, Virginia Beach has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and theaters that showcase local history and art. The town hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Neptune Festival, the Patriotic Festival, and the Virginia Beach Boardwalk Art Show. Furthermore, Virginia Beach is family-friendly, with many activities and amenities geared towards children of all ages, such as playgrounds, mini-golf courses, and amusement parks.

What to Expect at Virginia Beach

Visitors to Virginia Beach can expect to find a bustling oceanfront area with a wide range of activities and attractions. The beach itself is wide and clean, with plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and playing. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, and beach chairs and umbrellas can be rented on-site. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a popular destination for visitors, with a 3-mile-long concrete path that is perfect for walking, biking, or rollerblading. The boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, the Ocean Breeze Waterpark, and the Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium.

Other Atlantic Ocean Beaches within Driving Distance from St. Louis

While Virginia Beach is the closest Atlantic Ocean beach to St. Louis, there are several other destinations that are within driving distance and worth considering for a beach vacation. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is located approximately 900 miles from St. Louis and is known for its wide, sandy beaches, golf courses, and nightlife. Ocean City, Maryland, is located approximately 950 miles from St. Louis and is a family-friendly destination with a lively boardwalk and amusement park. Daytona Beach, Florida, is located approximately 1100 miles from St. Louis and is a popular destination for winter travel, with mild temperatures and plenty of attractions.

Conclusion: Plan Your Next Beach Adventure from St. Louis

St. Louisans who are craving a beach vacation can rest assured that there are several Atlantic Ocean beaches that are within driving distance and offer a range of activities and attractions. Virginia Beach is the closest and most popular destination, but other options include Myrtle Beach, Ocean City, and Daytona Beach. When planning a beach vacation from St. Louis, it’s important to consider the distance, driving time, and accessibility of each destination, as well as the amenities and attractions that are available. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, St. Louisans can enjoy a memorable beach vacation on the Atlantic Ocean.

Resources for Planning a Trip to the Atlantic Ocean Beaches

  • Virginia Beach Visitor Information: https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/
  • Myrtle Beach Visitor Information: https://www.visitmyrtlebeach.com/
  • Ocean City Visitor Information:
  • Daytona Beach Visitor Information: https://www.daytonabeach.com/
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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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