USA Beach Holidays: Adventure Beyond the Shoreline on a Fly-drive
When most people think of a beach holiday, they imagine long days of sunbathing and relaxing to the sound of the rolling tides. But at Frontier America, we believe a beach holiday can be so much more. Our tailor-made fly-drives blend the allure of the country’s stunning beaches with thrilling adventures.
Whether it’s sipping wine at an award-winning vineyard, soaking up the culture in a vibrant city, or riding horseback through wide-open plains, these itineraries are expertly crafted for those seeking a holiday filled with the kind of variety and discovery that is worth the long haul.
Why the USA is Perfect for Fly-Drive Adventures
With its vast landscape, the USA is the ultimate destination for a fly-drive holiday. Taking you from its sprawling metropolises through to its rugged mountain ranges, the open roads invite you to discover the country at your own pace. And the driving is straightforward, with well-maintained highways, iconic scenic routes, and plenty of roadside diners to keep you fuelled.
Are you ready to explore? Here are four of our most captivating beach-and-adventure holidays that redefine the traditional concept of sun, sea and sand escapes.
1. Conquering Cityscapes and Sun-Kissed Shores: New York & Waikiki
Two iconic destinations, one unforgettable adventure. This 14-night journey effortlessly blends the electric energy of New York City with the laid-back allure of Waikiki’s golden beaches.
Start your adventure in the city that never sleeps. Stroll through Central Park, marvel at the towering majesty of the Empire State Building, and wander the vibrant streets of Manhattan. From the lights of Times Square to the timeless charm of Greenwich Village, New York City offers boundless discoveries at every turn.
Looking to scale the metropolises’ dizzy heights without the crowds,? National Geographic Traveller suggest making your way to the rooftop Cantor Garden at the Metropolitan Museum of Art: “accessed via a lift near a display of Fabergé eggs on the first floor. Here, the crowds thin; those who make it up feel like they’ve made their own special discovery.“
Dig deeper and dive into the city’s cultural fabric with world-class museums, Broadway performances, and iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty. Then, swap the hustle of the city for the soothing waves of the Pacific as you touch down in Waikiki.
Feel the sand beneath your feet as you walk along Waikiki Beach, or paddle out to catch the surf that made these shores legendary. Hike up Diamond Head for panoramic views, then indulge in the flavours of Hawaiian cuisine with fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Key Highlights:
- Explore the vibrant streets and skyscrapers of Manhattan
- Relax on the world-famous Waikiki Beach or go snorkelling with turtles at nearby Maunalua Bay
- Hike the stunning Diamond Head Crater for panoramic views
- Witness fire knife dancing under the stars
2. Cities, Beaches, and Country Roads: Texas Fly-Drive
Texas is a land of contrasts, where sprawling cities, rugged landscapes, and serene beaches come together to create unforgettable adventures. On this 14-night fly-drive, you’ll experience the Lone Star State in all its glory, with the holiday blending urban energy, quiet country roads, and coastal bliss.
Start in the dynamic city of Dallas, where modern skyscrapers stand shoulder to shoulder with landmarks like Dealey Plaza—the original town site often called the “birthplace of Dallas.”
A land where the cowboy stands tall, next the trail winds its way to the Wildcatter Ranch, its 1,500 acres only 90 miles northwest of Fort Worth, then south to Fredericksburg, where rolling vineyards and German heritage create the perfect blend of culture and countryside. Sip local wines, explore the Enchanted Rock, and enjoy small-town hospitality before heading to San Antonio. Here in Mission City, history and adventure collide—the cosmopolitan River Walk lined with restaurants bars and cafes and the legendary Alamo, home to tales of bravery and resilience that continue to echo through the ages.
America’s fourth largest city, Houston is filled with world-class museums, dynamic nightlife, and space-age wonders at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. But the real treat awaits in Galveston on the Gulf of Mexico, with its sun-kissed beaches, fresh seafood, and laid-back island vibes. The perfect place to unwind, sink your toes into the sand or kayak through coastal marshes teeming with wildlife.
Key Highlights:
- Explore the cultural richness of Dallas and San Antonio.
- Take a horseback ride into history on the historic Goodnight-Loving Trail.
- Visit Gonzales, the site of the first battle of the Texas Revolution
- Unwind on the peaceful Gulf Coast beaches.
Explore Texas with our very own Ranching & America expert Joanne Moores, her trip mirroring many of the above destinations, including the Wildcatter Ranch.
3. North East Wine Trail: Vineyards and Beaches
Discover the perfect pairing of fine wines and coastal charm on the Northeast Wine Trail—a journey through picturesque vineyards, historic towns, and sun-kissed beaches. Beginning in the vibrant city of New York, this expertly curated 13-night Oenophile holiday transports you to New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and finally to the tranquil beauty of the Finger Lakes region, renowned for its world-class Rieslings, award-winning wineries and stunning lake views.
New Jersey’s Cape May crafts coastal-influenced wines best enjoyed after a sun-drenched morning by the shore, while Kennett Square in neighbouring Pennsylvania is celebrated for its lush countryside and artisanal winemaking. Located in the same state, the trail also makes a stop in the legendary town of Hershey. Where sweet meets sophisticated—its vineyards allow visitors to sample a different kind of indulgence.
Finally, the Finger Lakes await, with Ithaca’s waterfalls, the region’s 11 wine trails setting the stage for some spectacular photography. For example, Buttonwood Grove Winery, one of Cayuga Lake’s most scenic wineries, is set high above the road, its wrap-around deck offering expansive views of the vineyards, the beautifully landscaped grounds and Cayuga Lake.
Outside of wineries, Travel + Leisure singles out Taughannock Falls State Park as one of the most Instagrammable locations for hikers, with its beautiful hiking trails and scenic views, making it a popular spot for shutterbugs and outdoorsy types: “The 215-foot waterfall drop at Taughannock Falls in Trumansburg is a perfect Kodak — OK, Instagram — moment.“
Visited at the tail end of the trip, Long Island’s North Fork is blessed with ocean-kissed breezes and sandy stretches, the area known for its vineyards, farms, and coastal towns. Try Orient Beach State Park with its spectacular views of the Long Island Sound, and end your day with a glass of something sparkling as the sun dips below the horizon.
Key Highlights:
- Walk in the footsteps of the Founding Fathers; visit Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
- Visit award-winning vineyards, from those rooted in tradition to boutique wineries crafting small-batch, artisanal wines.
- Unwind at historic seaside gems like Cape May and the famous stretches of sand on Long Island.
- Explore Ithaca Falls, famous for over 100 waterfalls.
4. Winter in the Southwest: Escape into the Sun
Say hello to sunnier climes on this enchanting 17-night winter escape to America’s Southwest, where dramatic backdrops, cultural treasures, and serene desert warmth await. Your trip begins in Las Vegas, a glittering oasis of energy and excitement. Explore the famous Strip, marvel at the dancing fountains of the Bellagio, or try your luck in the casinos. Beyond the neon lights, discover the raw beauty of the Grand Canyon, where towering rock formations and breathtaking vistas create a timeless landscape that invites you to explore.
As you venture further south, the iconic red rocks of Sedona rise to greet you—the perfect setting for jeep tours and mystical hikes bathed in glowing hues at sunrise and sunset. Serving up even more in the way of adventure, in the vibrant city of Phoenix, rock climbing, mountain biking, and hot air ballooning showcase the Sonoran Desert’s cacti-studded beauty.
If you have dreamed of hitting the cowboy trail, Tombstone and Tucson are the perfect places to saddle up, the Western theme continuing in Yuma, “The Gateway to the Great Southwest,” home to the Yuma Territorial Prison, where the worst outlaws of the Old West were sent to serve their time.
Finally, unwind on the golden shores of San Diego, where the Pacific Ocean beckons. Visit La Jolla’s stunning coves—its seven miles of curving coastline along the Pacific Ocean and gleaming beaches dubbed the jewel of America’s Finest City.
Key Highlights:
- Marvel at the red rocks of Sedona and the vastness of the Grand Canyon.
- Soak up the sun in Phoenix’s warm desert climate.
- Saddle up on a ride into Tombstone—the town too tough to die.
- Kayak amongst dolphins, seals, sea lions, and waving stalks of kelp, and paddle through La Jolla’s seven sea caves.
A Few Tips for Driving in the USA
Driving in the USA can be one of the most enjoyable parts of your holiday, but it’s important to keep a few tips in mind:
- Drive on the Right: Unlike the UK, vehicles travel on the right-hand side of the road.
- Speed Limits: Speed limits vary by state and are posted in miles per hour.
- Stop Signs: At a four-way stop, the first vehicle to arrive has the right of way.
- Fuel Stations: Many are self-service, and you may need to pay before you pump.
- Distances: The USA is vast, so our custom planning of routes will ensure you can make comfortable stops as you go.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, make sure you have all your documentation, including your UK driving license and proof of insurance.
Your Adventure Awaits
At Frontier America, we specialise in creating tailor-made experiences that cater to your passions and interests. So why settle for a standard beach trip when you can embark on an unforgettable journey?
Contact us today, on 020 8776 8709 or email us at America@frontier-travel.co.uk and let us craft your perfect holiday to America’s most stunning beaches and beyond. The open road awaits! ATOL PROTECTED No. 5405 ABTA W3207.
