The 15 Best Beaches in the U.S.: Top Coastal Getaways in Every Region
The United States boasts an incredible array of beaches, each offering a unique coastal getaway experience that attracts millions of visitors annually. According to recent trends, Americans are increasingly prioritizing beach vacations, with nearly two-thirds planning to take up to two beach trips in 2025. The beach tourism market is set to reach $256.85 billion by 2025, driven by cultural significance and sustainable tourism growth.
Elizabeth Von Tersch, senior travel editor at US News, says travelers seek “one-of-a-kind landscapes and jaw-dropping scenery,” found on many US beaches. The US offers diverse coastal landscapes, making it a top destination for beach lovers seeking sun, sand, and serenity. Here are 15 of the best beaches in the US.
Waikiki Beach – Hawaii
Waikiki Beach, located on the island of Oahu, is one of the most iconic beaches in the world, attracting millions of visitors annually. It is a major economic driver for Hawaii, generating over $2 billion in annual income and accounting for a significant portion of the state’s tourism revenue. Known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters, Waikiki offers a vibrant nightlife, cultural events, and a variety of water sports.
The beach is also steeped in history, having been a favorite spot for Hawaiian royalty and the birthplace of surfing culture. Despite its popularity, Waikiki faces overcrowding and beach erosion challenges, making sustainable management crucial.
Maui’s Kaanapali Beach – Hawaii
Kaanapali Beach, situated on Maui’s west coast, is renowned for its stunning three-mile stretch of white sand. This beach is a popular destination for families and couples alike, offering a range of activities from snorkeling to whale watching during the winter months. Luxury resorts surround Kaanapali and offer a lively atmosphere with shopping and dining options along its scenic boardwalk.
The beach is also famous for its cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock, a traditional Hawaiian ritual that adds to its cultural charm. Kaanapali Beach is a must-visit for any beach lover, offering beautiful sunsets and vibrant marine life.
Santa Monica Beach – California
Santa Monica Beach, located in Los Angeles County, is a beloved destination known for its iconic pier and vibrant beach culture. The beach offers a variety of activities, including surfing, biking, and amusement park rides at Pacific Park. Santa Monica Bay, where the beach is situated, features 50 miles of scenic coastline with numerous public beaches, providing endless recreational opportunities.
The beach is also a hub for cultural events and festivals throughout the year, making it a lively spot for locals and tourists. Santa Monica Beach offers entertainment and natural beauty and is a top choice for those visiting California.
Laguna Beach – California
In Orange County, Laguna Beach is famous for its picturesque coves and stunning coastal scenery. The beach attracts over 6.3 million visitors annually, contributing significantly to the local economy through dining, entertainment, and sightseeing activities. Laguna Beach is renowned for its artistic community and vibrant cultural scene, with numerous galleries and festivals annually.
Visitors are drawn to its scenic beauty, with 60.5% citing it as a major attraction. Despite its popularity, managing tourism’s impact on the local environment remains a challenge for the city.
Cannon Beach – Oregon
Cannon Beach, located on Oregon’s coast, is a charming seaside town famous for its iconic Haystack Rock, a massive 800-year-old monolith. The beach offers a serene and natural environment for those seeking a tranquil coastal experience. It is also known for its vibrant arts scene and boutique shopping, making it a popular destination for couples and families.
The town’s scenic beauty and outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching attract nature lovers worldwide. Cannon Beach is a must-visit for any traveler to the Pacific Northwest, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm.
Destin Beach – Florida
Destin Beach, situated on Florida’s Emerald Coast, is renowned for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding activities. Destin is famous for fishing, earning it the nickname “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.”
The beach’s scenic beauty and family-friendly atmosphere make it a popular vacation destination. Destin Beach is a top choice for those visiting Florida, offering a mix of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
South Beach – Florida
In Miami, South Beach is a vibrant and iconic destination known for its Art Deco architecture, lively nightlife, and stunning beaches. The beach is famous for its clear waters and white sand, attracting visitors worldwide. South Beach offers diverse activities, from swimming and sunbathing to shopping and dining along Ocean Drive.
The area is also a hub for cultural events and festivals, making it a lively spot for locals and tourists. South Beach is a must-visit for any traveler to Florida, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy.
Tybee Island – Georgia
Tybee Island, located near Savannah, Georgia, is a charming coastal town known for its historic lighthouse and scenic beaches. The island offers a relaxed atmosphere for those seeking a tranquil beach experience. It is famous for its water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding, and vibrant arts scene.
The island’s historic sites, such as the Tybee Island Lighthouse, add to its cultural charm. Tybee Island is a must-visit for any traveler to the Southeast, offering a mix of natural beauty and historical significance.
Virginia Beach – Virginia
Virginia Beach, located on the Atlantic coast, is popular for its long stretch of sandy beaches and vibrant boardwalk. The beach offers a range of activities, from swimming and surfing to fishing and boating. Virginia Beach is famous for its Neptune Festival, which attracts visitors worldwide.
The area is also a hub for outdoor activities, including hiking and biking along the coastal trails. Virginia Beach is a top choice for those visiting the East Coast, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural events.
Cape Cod National Seashore – Massachusetts
Cape Cod National Seashore, located on the eastern tip of Massachusetts, is a stunning coastal area known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. The seashore offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and whale watching. Cape Cod is famous for its scenic lighthouses and historic sites, adding to its cultural charm.
According to the Cape Cod official website, at least 4 million visitors and residents visit the Cape Cod National Seashore annually. The area is a popular destination for nature lovers, with its diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes. Cape Cod National Seashore is a must-visit for any traveler to New England, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Martha’s Vineyard – Massachusetts
Martha’s Vineyard, an island off the coast of Massachusetts, is a charming destination known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant cultural scene. The island offers a range of activities, from sailing and fishing to exploring its quaint towns and historic sites. Martha’s Vineyard is famous for its beautiful sunsets and scenic landscapes, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers.
According to the Vineyard Gazette, the Martha’s Vineyard Commission estimates that up to 94,000 people occupy the island on any given day in August. The island’s unique cultural heritage and colonial and modern influences add to its charm. Martha’s Vineyard is a must-visit for any traveler to New England, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
Ocracoke Island – North Carolina
Ocracoke Island, located off the coast of North Carolina, is a tranquil and historic destination known for its pristine beaches and charming village. The island is accessible only by ferry, adding to its secluded charm. Ocracoke Island is famous for its wild horses and historic sites, including the Ocracoke Lighthouse.
According to Island Free Press, the National Seashore recorded 3,206,056 visitors in 2021, the highest number since its establishment in 1953. The island offers a range of outdoor activities, from kayaking to fishing, and its relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for those seeking a peaceful beach experience. Ocracoke Island is a must-visit for any traveler to the Southeast, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Nantucket Island – Massachusetts
Nantucket Island, located off the coast of Massachusetts, is a historic and picturesque destination known for its cobblestone streets and pristine beaches. The island is famous for its whaling history and vibrant cultural scene, and it hosts numerous museums and festivals annually. Nantucket offers a range of activities, from sailing and fishing to exploring its quaint towns and historic sites.
According to Capeandislands, Nantucket’s peak summer population grew by 50%, from 40,000 in 2014 to over 60,000 in 2021. The island’s unique cultural heritage and colonial and modern influences add to its charm. Nantucket Island is a must-visit for any traveler to New England, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
Point Reyes National Seashore – California
Point Reyes National Seashore, located north of San Francisco, is a stunning coastal area known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. The seashore offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and whale watching. It is also famous for its scenic lighthouses and historic sites, which add to its cultural charm.
According to Statista, Point Reyes National Seashore in the United States recorded recreational visitor numbers from 2008 to 2023. The area is a popular destination for nature lovers, with its diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes. Point Reyes National Seashore is a must-visit for any traveler to California, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Clearwater Beach – Florida
Clearwater Beach, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a popular destination for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere and offers a range of activities, from swimming and sunbathing to water sports and dolphin-watching cruises. Clearwater Beach is also a hub for cultural events and festivals, making it a lively spot for locals and tourists.
According to Travel US News, the best time to visit Clearwater Beach is from October to December when humidity is low, crowds are smaller, and holiday events are plentiful. The area is renowned for its scenic sunsets and vibrant nightlife. Clearwater Beach is a top choice for those visiting Florida, offering a mix of natural beauty and entertainment options.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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