It’s the middle of summer, which for most people means it’s also the middle of beach season. There’s something at the beach for everyone, and fortunately for travel nurses, one of the best beaches in the nation can be a quick flight or drive away—or possibly right across the street!
Of course, as a travel nurse, you have the freedom—with the right travel nurse assignment—to lounge by the beach or enjoy fun under the sun during your time off. The only question is: Where should you go? To help you with this important decision, we have put together our list of the best summer locations for travel nurses to catch some rays.
Cayucos, California
Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Cayucos is very different from the many other beach towns in California. The coast is surrounded by beautiful hills that separate the beaches from the rest of the state and provide a secluded feeling. On your scheduled off time from your travel nurse contract, sit back, relax, and take in the beautiful scenery. If the pace gets too slow for your travel nursing heart, you’ll still have access to major cities in central CA at your disposal. However, Cayucos has tons of different small shops and eateries that you won’t find anywhere else, so start exploring!
Blue Hill, Maine
If you’re a travel nurse with a creative soul searching for some scenic views, Blue Hill is one of the top unique beach towns for you. On the central coast of Maine and less than two hours from Augusta, visitors can explore the beautiful peninsula’s small seaside villages and coastline. You can also enjoy some of the area’s activities, including hiking, kayaking, sailing, whale watching, listening to concerts, and exploring the different islands and lighthouses by foot, car, and boat. You’re guaranteed a memorable visit when you stop here during your travel nurse assignment.
Plus, you’ll be able to indulge in some of the best lobster and seafood in the country.
Empire, Michigan
More of a village than a beach town, Empire will still give you all the summertime feels. This city is the perfect headquarters for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, 65 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, and numerous inland lakes and streams. Although it’s not a beach with an ocean, the waves are big enough that surfers still visit. It’s also fresh water, so there’s no need to worry about sharks. Other visitors can explore the towering bluffs, go fishing and paddling in the crystal-clear waters, and watch the stars by a bonfire at night.
Empire is a laid-back place for those looking for an unspoiled beach vacation, not a party, so you can accomplish some serious relaxing before heading back to your travel nursing facility.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
This vibrant city is for adventurous travel nurses looking for some fun. The miles of the Atlantic coastline allow busier travelers to unwind after a long shift with a stroll on wide-open, sandy beaches or let loose at the casino resorts, concerts, and live events. Enjoy parasailing, charter fishing, and dolphin-watching for a fun day trip to the beach. With its central location, travel nurses can also take day trips to nearby Cape May, Philadelphia, or even New York City.
Boca Raton, Florida
Boca Raton is a must-see destination situated in West Palm Beach County. This pristine beach area, isolated and serene, provides recreational use for the thousands who wish to spend time at the ocean or enjoy the various sand dunes spotted with sea oats and grapes. Besides its world-renowned beaches, travel nurses can enjoy a bustling downtown area and plenty of cultural attractions. One of our favorites? The Red Reef Park is home to the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center with trails, a butterfly garden, and a sea turtle sanctuary.
While there are plenty of great cities to spend your summer assignments, this is our list of the top places. Have you caught the travel bug and are ready to hit the road? Nurse First’s travel nurse job board has plenty of travel nurse positions available for you.
Let’s travel!
