This post is about 20 of the best beaches in the US!
If you’re dreaming of soft sand, salty breezes, and clear blue waters, the United States has no shortage of incredible beaches. From the rugged Pacific coastline to the tropical vibes of the Florida Keys, there’s a perfect stretch of sand for every kind of beachgoer.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet nature escape, a family-friendly resort town, or a vibrant cultural hotspot, these 20 U.S. beaches offer something for everyone. Bookmark this list for your next summer getaway and get ready to soak up the sun! Make sure to check local travel advisories and seasonal highlights before planning your visit to get the most out of your beach vacation.
Here’s a list of the 20 best beaches in the USA, packed with travel tips, local highlights, and what makes each spot a must-see.
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What You Need
Before you head out to the sand and surf, make sure you’re fully prepared with the essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable beach day. Here’s what to bring:
- Sunscreen – Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Reef-safe formulas are encouraged, especially in Hawaii and conservation areas.
- Beach Towels and Blankets – A large towel or beach blanket gives you space to lounge and dry off.
- Umbrella or Beach Tent – For shade and protection from the sun, especially during midday hours.
- Water and Snacks – Stay hydrated and energized with a reusable water bottle and easy-to-pack snacks.
- Cooler – Great for keeping drinks and perishable items chilled.
- Beach Chairs – Foldable and lightweight options make relaxing even more comfortable.
- Swimwear and Cover-Ups – Bring a change of clothes or a cover-up if you plan to grab food nearby.
- Footwear – Flip flops or water shoes help navigate hot sand and rocky areas.
- Trash Bags – Keep beaches clean by packing out all your garbage.
- Waterproof Phone Case or Dry Bag – Protect your electronics and valuables from sand and water.
- Entertainment – Bring a book, beach games, or a Bluetooth speaker for music.
- Cash or Cards – For parking meters, food vendors, or nearby shops.
Always check beach-specific rules and weather forecasts before you go. Some locations have restrictions on coolers, alcohol, or pets, and others may require advanced reservations or entrance fees.
20 Best Beaches in the US
1. Siesta Key Beach – Sarasota, Florida
Voted one of the top beaches in the U.S. year after year, Siesta Key Beach is famous for its powdery white quartz sand that stays cool even under the hot Florida sun. The calm Gulf waters are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and shell collecting. Siesta Key Village offers a laid-back beach town vibe with local eateries, boutiques, and live music venues. Don’t miss the vibrant sunsets or the Sunday night drum circles that bring locals and tourists together.
Admission: Free; Parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
2. Waikiki Beach – Honolulu, Hawaii
Waikiki is iconic for a reason. With Diamond Head as its backdrop, this beach is perfect for beginner surfers, sunbathers, and sunset watchers alike. The area is lined with high-end resorts, shopping, and Hawaiian cuisine. Take a surf lesson, sip a Mai Tai on the beach, or stroll the Kalakaua Avenue strip. Don’t miss the Friday night fireworks that light up the sky over the Pacific.
Admission: Free; Beach can get crowded, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Cannon Beach – Oregon
Known for its dramatic scenery and Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach offers a more rugged and romantic coastal experience. It’s ideal for photography, tide pooling, and long walks along the fog-kissed Pacific shore. Art galleries and cozy cafes add to the town’s charm. Wildlife lovers can spot puffins nesting on the rock during spring and summer.
Admission: Free; Paid parking in some areas. Quiet during the week, but busy on sunny weekends.
4. South Beach – Miami, Florida
Famous for its Art Deco architecture and electric nightlife, South Beach is a hotspot for people-watching, sunbathing, and soaking up the vibrant culture. The beach itself is wide and lively with colorful lifeguard towers and crystal-clear Atlantic waters. Enjoy a stroll down Ocean Drive, take in the local art scene, or dance the night away in world-class clubs.
Admission: Free; Expect large crowds year-round, especially spring break.
5. Coronado Beach – San Diego, California
Located just across the bay from downtown San Diego, Coronado Beach boasts sparkling sand thanks to its high mica content. The historic Hotel del Coronado adds charm, and the beach is both family- and dog-friendly. Take a bike ride along the oceanfront or enjoy a beachfront brunch with a view.
Admission: Free; Street parking is available, but fills up quickly in summer.
6. Myrtle Beach – South Carolina
This 60-mile stretch of sand, known as the Grand Strand, is packed with fun. From arcades and amusement parks to live shows and golf, Myrtle Beach is a top family vacation destination on the East Coast. Water sports, seafood buffets, and a bustling boardwalk make it a memorable stop for travelers of all ages.
Admission: Free; Parking and some attractions have separate fees. Very busy during summer months.
7. Hanauma Bay – Oahu, Hawaii
A protected marine life conservation area, Hanauma Bay is ideal for snorkeling. The coral reefs are teeming with colorful fish, and the views from the surrounding cliffs are unforgettable. Educational programs and visitor centers enhance your experience, and the area’s preservation ensures a clean, eco-friendly visit.
Admission: $25 per person for non-residents; closed Mondays and Tuesdays; reservations required.
8. Cape Cod National Seashore – Massachusetts
This preserved stretch of coastline offers dunes, lighthouses, and a classic New England beach experience. Great for hiking, biking, and spotting seals or whales during the right season. Explore historic towns like Provincetown and Wellfleet, or kayak through salt marshes and estuaries.
Admission: $25 per vehicle (valid for 7 days); beaches can be crowded on weekends and holidays.
9. Clearwater Beach – Clearwater, Florida
With its soft white sand and vibrant Pier 60, Clearwater Beach is perfect for families and sunset lovers. Enjoy water activities like parasailing, jet skiing, or dolphin-spotting tours. The area has excellent seafood restaurants, and the nightly sunset festival includes street performers and local vendors.
Admission: Free; Parking fees apply. Very popular, so arrive early for best spots.
10. Ka’anapali Beach – Maui, Hawaii
A former retreat for Hawaiian royalty, Ka’anapali Beach offers luxurious resorts, snorkeling at Black Rock, and daily cliff diving ceremonies. The beachfront walkway connects visitors to shops and restaurants. Relax under palm trees or join a catamaran tour to see marine life offshore.
Admission: Free; Parking may be limited at public access points. Popular with resort guests.
11. Assateague Island – Maryland & Virginia
This unique beach is known for its wild horses that roam the dunes. A serene and uncrowded spot, Assateague offers a peaceful, natural beach setting with camping, kayaking, and nature trails. Birdwatchers and nature photographers especially love this untouched haven.
Admission: $25 per vehicle (valid for 7 days); limited facilities, but quieter than most beaches.
12. Gulf Shores – Alabama
With sugar-white sand and warm Gulf waters, Gulf Shores is a beloved Southern beach destination. It offers a relaxed vibe, great seafood, and plenty of outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and kayaking. Visit nearby Orange Beach for more entertainment and a vibrant nightlife.
Admission: Free; Parking varies by beach. Popular during spring break and summer.
13. Santa Monica Beach – California
Just west of Los Angeles, Santa Monica Beach features a wide stretch of sand, a bustling pier with a Ferris wheel, and a lively boardwalk. Great for biking, beach volleyball, and people-watching. Nearby Third Street Promenade offers endless shopping and dining options, and the beach often hosts festivals and fitness classes.
Admission: Free; Parking garages and lots available for a fee. Busy year-round.
14. Outer Banks – North Carolina
This chain of barrier islands is known for its wild beauty, historic lighthouses, and family-friendly beaches. Activities range from hang gliding at Jockey’s Ridge to kite surfing and crabbing. Explore historic sites like the Wright Brothers Memorial or roam the charming towns of Duck and Nags Head.
Admission: Free; some parks and sites may charge entry fees. Summer is peak season.
15. La Jolla Cove – San Diego, California
A picturesque beach surrounded by cliffs, La Jolla Cove is ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and spotting sea lions. The nearby village offers upscale dining, boutique shopping, and art galleries. Don’t forget to hike the coastal trails or explore the sea caves by kayak.
Admission: Free; parking can be very limited. Early arrival recommended.
16. North Beach – Tybee Island, Georgia
Just 20 minutes from Savannah, this charming beach is known for its laid-back vibe, lighthouse, and dolphin tours. It’s a great mix of Southern charm and coastal fun. The area is also great for birdwatching, historic forts, and relaxing beach strolls.
Admission: Free; Parking is $4 per hour. Can get busy on weekends.
17. Lanikai Beach – Oahu, Hawaii
Often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Lanikai is known for its turquoise waters, soft sand, and view of the Mokulua Islands. Sunrise here is absolutely magical. The beach is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and relaxing in a serene setting far from the crowds.
Admission: Free; No public facilities or parking lot, so plan ahead. Limited space means it can fill up early.
18. Rockaway Beach – New York City, New York
NYC’s most famous beach offers a city-meets-surf vibe. Enjoy food trucks, live music, and surfing just a subway ride from Manhattan. The boardwalk has been revitalized and is a favorite weekend escape for New Yorkers looking for sand, surf, and summer energy.
Admission: Free; Accessible by subway. Weekends can be crowded.
19. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – Michigan
Located on Lake Michigan, this freshwater beach is surrounded by massive sand dunes and scenic overlooks. Great for hiking, swimming, and catching sunsets over the lake. The park includes trails through forests, rivers, and heritage farms that showcase the region’s natural beauty.
Admission: $25 per vehicle (valid for 7 days). Less crowded than coastal beaches.
20. Venice Beach – California
Known for its bohemian spirit, street performers, and Muscle Beach gym, Venice is a lively and eclectic beach destination. The boardwalk is full of unique shops, skateparks, murals, and local art. It’s a hotspot for creatives and surfers alike.
Admission: Free; Paid parking lots nearby. Constant buzz, especially in summer.
