Beach RV Camping: Top Tips for the Ultimate Oceanfront Getaway

Seeking inspiration for your next adventure? There is much to explore where the land meets the sea. Beach RV camping is an incredible experience, presenting opportunities to discover a new horizon and enjoy unbeatable scenery. An oceanfront RV getaway offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. In this article, you’ll find key tips for the perfect beach camping experience, such as choosing your next destination and planning essential activities.

Choosing the Best Oceanfront RV Campgrounds for Beach RV Camping

Perhaps both the most important and most exciting part of RV trip planning is choosing your next destination. Will you revisit a family favorite or discover someplace new? Which coast do you prefer? If you’re seeking a beach getaway, there’s a place for you on any coast. Here are some of the best beach RV camping destinations across the U.S.              

San Elijo State Beach (CA)

Located in San Diego County in the beach town of Encinitas, this stretch of Southern California coastline is perfect for an idyllic late summer getaway. San Elijo State Beach welcomes RV travelers right off the iconic Highway 101. Campers park on the bluff where they can claim the perfect spot for watching sunsets. Walk down the path for easy beach access, where you can surf, swim, snorkel, or walk along the sand. Campground amenities include outdoor showers, restrooms, hookups, and a dump station. The campground allows trailers and motorhomes up to 35 feet.

Leo Carrillo State Park (CA)

Further up the coast straddling the Los Angeles and Ventura County lines is Leo Carrillo State Park. Nestled in a Malibu valley, Leo Carrillo offers a more remote getaway. The campground is generously shaded by giant sycamore trees. The beach is just a short walk away, featuring beautiful rock formations, gentle surf, and tidepools ideal for family exploration. Take advantage of the hiking opportunities, as several trails lead directly from the campground to spectacular hilltop viewpoints. The campground amenities include a general store, fire rings, token-operated showers, and electrical hookups.

Gulf Shores RV Resort (AL)

If you’re looking for a luxurious beach RV camping experience, the Gulf Coast has many offerings that fit the bill. Among them is the Gulf Shores RV Resort in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Here, you can enjoy the comfort of a resort catered specifically to RV travelers and partake in several activities, including fishing, pickleball, swimming, and golf. Accommodating both short and long-term stays, this resort has multiple RV site features. These include water and electric hookups, a grill, picnic table, fire ring, dump station, and Wi-Fi.

Turtle Beach Campground (FL)

From the panhandle, to the Keys, to the Atlantic shoreline, Florida has several available beach RV camping options. Turtle Beach Campground is located on Siesta Key, Florida, a beautiful barrier island off the southwest coast of Florida. Named for the calm sea creatures that nest along the shoreline, visit during turtle season between early May and the end of October. This RV-friendly campground features washers and dryers, hot showers, restrooms, and direct beach access.

Camp Hatteras RV Resort and Campground (NC)

Camp Hatteras RV Resort and Campground is a luxurious option located in the famous Outer Banks of North Carolina. Located just feet from the Atlantic Ocean, this RV resort features over 400 full hookup sites. In addition to easy beach access, this location features heated pools, a jacuzzi, dog park, marina rentals, a camp store, and various land activities. Camp Hatteras offers a little bit of everything.

Beach RV Camping Essentials: What to Pack for Your Oceanfront Adventure

A beach RV camping packing checklist is going to look a little different from a regular RV camping trip. Here are some beach-specific suggestions that you won’t want to forget!

• Wide brimmed hat
• Rash guard
• Wetsuit
• Swimsuit/Boardshorts
• Flip flops
• Water shoes
• Fishing net
• Fishing gear (poles, bait, tacklebox, fishing line, lures, etc.)
• Snorkeling gear
• Goggles
• Swim fins
• Bodyboard
• Surfboard
• Paddleboard (and paddle)
• Beach blanket
• Beach towels
• Beach umbrella
• Beach chairs
• Wagon
• Waterproof case for valuables
• Mat (for sand)
• Beach games!

Beach Safety Tips: Staying Safe During Your Beach RV Camping Trip

Check Beach Regulations – Check for specific rules regarding beach safety and regulations. Only park in designated areas. Check the lifeguard station, tower, or posted signage for up-to-date rules and warnings

Minding Tides and Currents – The ocean is subject to constantly changing tides and currents. Never place belongings too close to the water! If you’re planning to go in the water, be conscious of your abilities and the wave conditions. Know how to identify and get out of rip currents. Surfline is a reliable online resource for tracking live tide, wind, swell, and wave conditions.

Avoiding Soft Sand – Watch out for potential soft, sandy spots in the campground to prevent your RV from getting stuck. Stay on designated roadways, and consider packing traction mats just in case. If applicable, use 4-wheel drive to improve the traction of the tow vehicle

Weather Preparation – Beaches can experience varied weather conditions. Check the forecast before and throughout your trip, keeping aware of potential storms, lightning, and high winds. Do not go in the water during a thunderstorm! Use weather apps or listen to NOAA radio for accurate and detailed weather condition updates

Sun Protection – Beaches can be especially sunny and hot. Keep well hydrated and protect yourself from sunburn and UV damage with high SPF sunscreen or zinc oxide sunblock. More coverage means greater protection, so consider wearing a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a rash guard.

Secure Doors and Windows – Even in more secluded areas, always shut and lock points of entry when leaving or going to sleep. Safety is the top priority!

First Aid Preparedness – Pack basic aid equipment with beach hazards in mind. Beaches can pose unique risks, such as sharp shells, reefs, and venomous marine life. Research the area for potential risks such as stingrays, jellyfish, and sea urchins. Use an updated RV packing checklist to ensure the First Aid kit is adequately stocked

RV Maintenance Tips for Beach RV Camping

While preparing for beach RV camping, ensure your RV is protected from the elements. Sand and salt are pervasive and have the potential to cause preventable problems. Here are some RV maintenance tips to keep in mind before and after your journey.

Protect Undercarriage – The undercarriage is vulnerable to salt and sand buildup. Consider applying a protective coating to preserve metal components

Maintain Tires – To prepare for operation on uneven terrain, ensure tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure level

Rinse Exterior – After your trip, rinse the sand and salt off the exterior of the RV, including windows, seals, and awning, if applicable. Sand and salt buildup can cause corrosion

Cover Electrical Connections – When not in use, protect electrical connections with covers to prevent sand from getting into plugs and outlets

Check Seals – Saltwater can corrode seals and caulking. After rinsing the RV exterior, be sure to inspect exposed seals and reapply caulk if necessary

Lubricate Moving Parts – Salty air can cause metal working components to rust prematurely. Lubricate hinges, jacks, and locks regularly

Secure Awning – Beach winds can be strong, so always properly secure and stow the awning to prevent damage

Check Air Filters – On windy days, sand can make its way into your air filters. Inspect the filters and clean or replace them as necessary

Invest in an Extended Warranty – Invest in a trustworthy RV warranty can extend the lifetime of your RV. Get a free quote today.

Soak in the Sun: Activities for Your Beach Getaway

From lying on the sand to splashing in the surf, beach RV camping offers activities that cannot be enjoyed anywhere else. To take advantage of all the oceanfront has to offer, consider planning some of your activities ahead of time. Here is a list of relaxing and activities for your next beach getaway:

Water Sports

Camping on the beach provides a unique opportunity to enjoy activities in and on the water. Activities include swimming, paddleboarding, snorkeling, jet skiing, boating, and much more. Ensure you have the proper equipment and everything is in good working order. Check surf and conditions reports prior to engaging in any aquatic activities, heeding any lifeguard warnings or signage.

Fishing

Beach RV camping is an exciting endeavor for any fishing enthusiast. Many beaches offer excellent fishing opportunities, either from the shore, piers, jetties, or by boat. Be sure to obtain the proper sport fishing license required by the state governing body.  

Beachcombing

The beach has much to offer, in and out of the water. Along the shoreline, discover and collect seashells, driftwood, sea glass, and unique rocks. Beachcombing is a relaxing and fun activity, especially if you love crafting in your RV. Incorporate keepsakes from your travels in jewelry, picture frames, or décor. Keep in mind that state parks do not typically allow the removal of any natural material.

Hiking

Be sure to pack your hiking boots with your flip-flops! Coastal trails often provide scenic hikes with breathtaking ocean views and abundant plant life. Enrich the experience with travel guides for local birds, plants, and animals. Hiking may not be the kids’ favorite, but a simple scavenger hunt can make the experience exciting for them too.  

Beach RV camping offers the flexibility of indulging in a relaxing getaway and engaging in exciting activities, from water sports to beach combing. With the right preparation, your oceanfront escape will be an unforgettable trip. Ready to explore the coast? Consider traveling with the peace of mind that comes from having an extended RV warranty and enjoy your oceanfront adventures worry free. Learn more about our coverage options today.