30 Best Beaches in the US You Need to Visit

Ka’anapali Beach, Hawaii

Ka’anapali Beach is a stunning and lively destination that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. You can relax on the three miles of white sand and crystal clear water, swim, snorkel, surf, or watch the famous cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock. You can also enjoy the shopping, dining, and entertainment options at Whalers Village. Or, you can play golf at one of the nearby courses. Ka’anapali Beach is a former Hawaiian royal getaway that has been named America’s Best Beach. Especially, Ka’anapali Beach is ranked as the #1 beach in the US in 2023 by TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards™.

Carmel Beach, California

Carmel Beach is a charming and scenic destination that offers a unique experience of sand and sun. To illustrate, you can enjoy the soft, white sand and the clear water of the Pacific Ocean, swim, surf, kayak, or play with your dog. You can also visit the nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea, a quaint and artistic village that has shops, galleries, and restaurants. You can also explore the Carmel Mission, a historic landmark that dates back to 1771. Carmel Beach is a peaceful and beautiful place that has stunning views of the Pebble Beach Golf Links and the Point Lobos State Reserve.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina

Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a national park that preserves a stretch of unspoiled barrier islands along the Atlantic coast of North Carolina. Indeed, Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers a variety of natural, cultural, and recreational resources. For example, there are sandy beaches, lighthouses, historic villages, wildlife habitats, and water sports. You can explore the seashore by driving along Highway 12, hiking on trails, biking on paths, camping on designated sites, or taking a ferry to Ocracoke Island. Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a place where you can experience the beauty and diversity of the Outer Banks.

East Hampton Main Beach, New York

East Hampton Main Beach is a beach located in East Hampton, a historic and affluent town on the eastern end of Long Island. Particularly, East Hampton Main Beach is a beautiful and clean sandy beach, with gentle waves and lifeguards. The beach is also a popular spot for celebrities and socialites, who flock to the nearby mansions and resorts.

Hanalei Bay Beach, Hawaii

Hanalei Beach is a beach located on Hanalei Bay, a large crescent-shaped bay on the north shore of Kauai. It is a stunning beach, with white sand, clear blue water, tropical palm trees, and a dramatic mountain backdrop. Furthermore, Hanalei Bay Beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, kayaking, and fishing. The place also has a historic pier, which was featured in the movie South Pacific.

Malibu Beach, California

Malibu is a coastal city that stretches for more than 30 miles along the Pacific Ocean and Highway One. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, celebrity homes, and surfing culture. Moreover, Malibu Beach is one of the most popular and iconic beaches in the city, offering a variety of sandy shorelines and scenic views. You can enjoy surfing, swimming, sunbathing, and watching the sunset at this beach. There are nearby attractions that you can visit such as the Malibu Pier, the Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum, and Surfrider Beach.

Duke Kahanamoku Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

Duke Kahanamoku Beach is part of the famous Waikiki Beach. It is located in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village and the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon. The beach is named after Duke Paoa Kahanamoku (1890-1968). He was a legendary Hawaiian surfer and Olympic swimmer who popularized the sport of surfing. In fact, the beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in the USA with the iconic Diamond Head volcano in the distance. It is also a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and paddle boarding. You can also enjoy fishing, surfing, and sunbathing at this beach. Besides that, you can visit nearby attractions such as the Waikiki Aquarium, the Honolulu Zoo, and the International Market Place.

Clearwater Beach, Florida

Clearwater Beach is a fun and friendly destination that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Yes, you can enjoy the sugar sand and the clear water of the Gulf of Mexico, swim, surf, parasail, or rent a jet ski. You can also visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where you can see Winter the dolphin, and other rescued marine animals. Additionally, you can enjoy the shopping, dining, and entertainment options at Pier 60, where you can watch street performers and catch a stunning sunset. Truly, Clearwater Beach has been named America’s No. 1 Beach several times by various sources.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Indeed, you and your family can enjoy the 60-mile-long sandy beach and the warm water of the Atlantic Ocean, swim, surf, parasail, or rent a jet ski. You can also visit the famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, where you can find amusement rides, a big Ferris wheel, arcade games, shops, and restaurants. Also, you can also explore the nearby Broadway at the Beach, where you can find entertainment, dining, and shopping options. On top of that, Myrtle Beach is one of the major centers of tourism in South Carolina and has over 100 golf courses.

Ocean City Beach, Maryland

Ocean City Beach is a 10-mile sandy beach along the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is a popular destination for families, couples, and friends, who can enjoy a variety of activities and attractions. You can relax on the beach, swim in the water, surf, fish, or play volleyball. You can also stroll along the boardwalk. There are shops, restaurants, arcades, and amusement parks. Ocean City Beach has something for everyone, whether you want a laid-back or a lively vacation.

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach is a charming coastal town that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you want to relax on the sandy beach, enjoy the thrill of Funland amusement park, or explore the boutique shops and restaurants along the boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach has something for everyone. You can also visit the nearby Cape Henlopen State Park, where you can hike, bike, fish, or kayak in the scenic natural setting. Rehoboth Beach is a popular vacation destination that combines the charm of a small town with the amenities of a resort.

Tybee Island Beach, Tybee Island, Georgia

Tybee Island Beach is a small coastal community that is only 18 miles away from Savannah, Georgia, making it a convenient and scenic getaway. The beach is definitely a beautiful and relaxing destination that offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. You can enjoy the white sand and gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean, swim, snorkel, surf, or fish from the pier. You can also explore the historic lighthouse, the marine science center, or the charming shops and restaurants of the island.

Pope Beach, Lake Tahoe, California

Pope Beach is located on the south shore of Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America. It is one of the most scenic and accessible beaches on the lake. There are clear water, pine trees, and mountain views you can enjoy. In addition, it is a great place for swimming, kayaking, sunbathing, and picnicking. You can also rent bikes and follow the paved trail that connects Pope Beach with other nearby beaches and attractions. Pope Beach is part of the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit and requires a $10 entry fee per vehicle.

Kiawah Island Beachwalker Park, South Carolina

Kiawah Island Beachwalker Park is located on the west end of Kiawah Island, a barrier island off the coast of South Carolina. It offers 10 miles of unspoiled beach and pristine waters. In fact, it is the only public beach access on the island and features a wide boardwalk that weaves through live oaks, pines, palmettos, and yucca plants. The beach is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. You can enjoy biking, fishing, and birdwatching at this beach. You can also visit the nearby attractions such as the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, the Night Heron Park, and the Freshfields Village.

Assateague Beach, Virginia/Maryland

Assateague Beach is a wild and wonderful destination that offers a unique experience of nature and wildlife. Indeed, you can explore the 37 miles of natural seashore, salt marshes, maritime forests, and coastal bays that makeup Assateague Island National Seashore. You can also see the famous wild ponies that roam freely on the island, as well as various birds and other animals. You can swim, surf, fish, kayak, hike, or camp on the island. Moreover, you can visit the nearby Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge or Assateague State Park. Assateague Beach is a place where you can enjoy the beauty and diversity of the barrier island.

Caladesi Island State Park, Florida

Caladesi Island State Park is one of the few untouched islands along the Gulf Coast. It’s accessible only by boat or kayak. Therefore, this island is a natural paradise, with pristine beaches, bayside mangrove forests, and diverse wildlife. You can enjoy a stroll along the beach, a kayak trip through the mangroves, or a picnic under the palm trees. Caladesi Island State Park is also home to shorebirds, sea turtles, and gopher tortoises.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is a scenic beach town on the Oregon coast. The beach is famous for its landmark Haystack Rock, a 235-foot sea stack that rises from the shore. Cannon Beach is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of attractions and activities. You can explore the beach, admire the views, watch the wildlife, or enjoy the art galleries and shops. Additionally, you can visit Ecola State Park, a stunning park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and panoramic vistas. Cannon Beach is a place where you can experience the beauty and charm of the Oregon coast.

Driftwood Beach, Georgia

Driftwood Beach is a beach located on Jekyll Island, a barrier island off the coast of Georgia. The beach is a stunning sight, with ancient driftwood monuments lining the waterfront. These driftwood formations are the result of decades of erosion, which have exposed the roots and trunks of a former maritime forest. Truly, Driftwood Beach is a place where you can admire the beauty and mystery of nature.

Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach, Outer Banks, North Carolina

Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach is located on Ocracoke Island, which is part of the Outer Banks, a chain of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. It is a wild and pristine beach that offers miles of sand, surf, and solitude. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including wild horses, sea turtles, and dolphins. You can enjoy swimming, surfing, and fishing at this beach. There are nearby attractions such as the Ocracoke Lighthouse, the British Cemetery, and the Teach’s Hole Blackbeard Exhibit that you can visit too.

Lanikai Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

Lanikai Beach, or Kaʻōhao Beach is located in the town of Kailua on the windward coast of Oahu. It is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in the world and is famous for its stunning views of the Mokulua Islands. It has a natural protection from the shape of the island, making the water calm and shallow. The beach is a great place for swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, and sunbathing. You can also enjoy windsurfing and kitesurfing at this beach, thanks to consistent and gentle trade winds. You can also visit the nearby attractions such as the Lanikai Pillbox Hike, the Kailua Farmers Market, and the Kailua Beach Park.

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Key Biscayne, Florida

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is a historic and scenic destination that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. You can enjoy the sandy beach and the clear water of the Atlantic Ocean, swim, kayak, fish, or bike along the trails. You can also visit the Cape Florida Lighthouse, the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County, and learn about its history and significance. Actually, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is a peaceful and beautiful place that has been ranked as one of the top 10 beaches in America.

Emerald Isle Beach, North Carolina

Similar to Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Emerald Isle Beach is a family-friendly and relaxing destination that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. At the beach, you can enjoy the 12 miles of pristine shoreline and incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and Bogue Inlet. You can swim, surf, fish, kayak, or play on the Bogue Inlet Pier. Also, you can explore the nearby Water Tower Park, Emerald Forest Golf Course, or Emerald Isle Woods Park. Emerald Isle Beach is part of the Crystal Coast, an 85-mile-long barrier island that has been voted as one of the best beaches in North Carolina.

Hapuna Beach State Park, Hawaii

Hapuna Beach State Park is a spectacular and spacious destination that offers a unique experience of sand and sun. You can enjoy the half-mile-long white sand beach and the turquoise water of the Pacific Ocean, swim, snorkel, bodyboard, or sunbathe. You can also visit the nearby Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, where you can find dining, golfing, and spa options. In particular, Hapuna Beach State Park has been ranked as one of the best beaches in America by various sources and is part of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail.

Ogunquit Beach, Maine

Ogunquit Beach is one of the best beaches in Maine. The beach has 3.5 miles of white sand and coastline. You can enjoy deep-sea fishing, whale watching, sailing, sea kayaking, hiking, or golfing in this seaside resort town. Ogunquit Beach also has a unique feature: a covered shelter with rows of chairs and benches for those who want to relax away from the sun. Besides that, Ogunquit Beach is close to many shops, restaurants, and attractions, such as the Marginal Way, a scenic waterfront walk.

Siesta Beach, Florida

Siesta Beach is a stunning and relaxing destination that offers a unique experience of sand and sun. At Siesta Beach, you can enjoy the cool, white, and powdery sand that is made of 99% quartz, which comes from the Appalachian Mountains. You can swim, surf, snorkel, or kayak in the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. You can also visit the nearby Siesta Key Village, where you can find shopping, dining, and nightlife options. In fact, Siesta Beach has been ranked as the #1 beach in the U.S. twice by TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards™ and as the finest, whitest sand beach in the world.

Cape May Beach, New Jersey

Cape May Beach is a beach located in Cape May, a historic seaside town at the southern tip of New Jersey. It is a popular destination for visitors who enjoy the Victorian charm, fine dining, shopping, and festivals of Cape May. The beach offers a wide and clean sandy beach, with gentle waves and lifeguards. Also, Cape May Beach has a picturesque lighthouse, a nature center, and a bird observatory. Cape May Beach is definitely a place where you can experience the beauty and culture of the Jersey Shore.

Coronado Beach, California

Coronado Beach is a beautiful beach in San Diego, located next to the iconic Hotel del Coronado. This beach offers wide sandy beaches with sparkling sand, courtesy of the mineral mica. You can enjoy a stroll along the expansive shoreline, a dip in the calm waves, or a picnic on the grassy lawn. Furthermore, Coronado Beach is dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along. Don’t miss the stunning sunset views over the Pacific Ocean. Coronado Beach is part of Coronado Island, a charming small town with elegant gardens, old-world mansions, and quaint shops.

By the way, if you plan to visit Coronado Beach, you can book the iconic Hotel del Coronado in advance to reserve a room for your best vacation experience.

Coast Guard Beach, Massachusetts

Coast Guard Beach is in Eastham, part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, and sunbathing. Coast Guard Beach is also well-known for its history. It was the site of a former Coast Guard station and a landing place for the first transatlantic cable. Coast Guard Beach has limited parking and access is provided by shuttle bus from mid-June to Labor Day.

Venice Beach, Los Angeles, California

Venice Beach is a lively and colorful beachfront neighborhood in Los Angeles that draws crowds to its busy Venice Beach boardwalk, where street performers and artists make an appearance. You can enjoy surfing, swimming, biking, and skating at this beach, as well as visiting nearby attractions such as the Venice Canals, Muscle Beach, Skate Park, and Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Venice Beach is also known for its eclectic and bohemian culture, featuring a variety of cafes, shops, galleries, and murals.