“Every year, U.S. travelers pack their bags, hit the road, and prepare to celebrate Independence Day by visiting some of the country’s best and most beautiful destinations. For 2024, HomeToGo has registered a significant year-on-year search increase for vacation rentals during the week of the Fourth of July, indicating a busy travel holiday,” said Eleanor Moody, HomeToGo Spokesperson and Travel Expert. “Our data shows a strong interest in coastal towns, especially those across North and South Carolina – which are known for their popular Fourth of July festivities.”
Top Trending Destinations for the Fourth of July
The locations with the most notable year-on-year increases in search volume for the week surrounding the Fourth of July in 2024 are:
Rank Destination State Year-on-Year Search Increase
#1 Sea Isle City New Jersey +491%
#2 Surf City North Carolina +468%
#3 Oak Island North Carolina +453%
#4 Palm Coast Florida +420%
#5 Ocean Isle Beach North Carolina +411%
Sea Isle City, New Jersey: Sea Isle City, N.J., invites travelers to enjoy its endless beaches, vibrant community, and an array of family-friendly activities, like the city’s popular Junior Olympics event. In addition, the city will host a free concert and a phenomenal fireworks display over the Atlantic coastline.
Surf City, North Carolina: Located on Long Beach Island, Surf City, N.C., boasts more than 40 public beaches with convenient access and playground amenities, as well as seaside and bayfront rentals that are perfect for families. Surf City will hold its annual July Fourth Parade where all are welcome to bring instruments, decorate bikes, walk alongside the show, or simply watch and enjoy.
Oak Island, North Carolina: Nestled on North Carolina’s scenic Brunswick Islands, Oak Island is full of tranquil beaches and has over 60 water access points. It is home to the annual North Carolina Fourth of July Festival—a 230-year tradition where travelers can look forward to fun family events such as Oak Island Beach Day, sand sculpture building, and a fireworks celebration.
Palm Coast, Florida: Situated on 70 miles of saltwater and freshwater canals, Palm Coast has outdoor activities perfect for enjoying the tropical holiday weather, including golfing, kayaking, and exploring one of a dozen gorgeous parks. On the Fourth of July, Palm Coast will host patriotic festivities like the Stripes Morning Parade and an awe-inspiring aircraft and fireworks demonstration.
Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina: Known as the “Gem of the Brunswick Islands,” this small town is full of white-sand beaches, offering the perfect combination of tranquility and recreation with opportunities for fishing, boating and simply relaxing. On the Fourth of July, families can enjoy a parade through town and a spectacular fireworks show on Ocean Isle Pier.
Most Popular Destinations
Destinations with the highest search volume for the week surrounding the Fourth of July 2024
Hidden Gem Coastal Towns
Picturesque coastal towns that are perfect for Fourth of July breaks, but which do not appear in the list of the 500 most searched destinations for the holiday:
Destin, Florida
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Panama City Beach, Florida
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
● Manzanita, Oregon
● Kennebunkport, Maine
● Mystic, Connecticut
● Beaufort, South Carolina
● York, Maine
Tags: Eleanor Moody, HomeToGo
