Looking for the perfect beach escape in the United States? From sun-soaked shores in Florida to rugged Pacific coastlines and tropical Hawaiian paradises, the U.S. is home to some of the world’s most diverse and breathtaking beaches.
Whether you’re into surfing, swimming, seashell hunting, or just relaxing under the sun, there’s a beach here for every kind of traveler.
In this guide, we’ll take you through 23 of the best beaches across the country—each offering its own unique charm, vibe, and reason to visit.
And to stay connected effortlessly as you explore these stunning spots, consider an iRoamly USA travel eSIM, which offers fast speeds and flexible packages perfect for any beach adventure.
East Coast Gems
1. South Beach, Miami, Florida
Miami’s South Beach is the party place that never sleeps! It has incredible nightlife and is ideal if you want to go out and dance every evening.
In addition to partying, the place is lined with stunning art deco buildings that add to its character. If you like to just sit back and relax and soak up the sun, go to South Beach!
2. Clearwater Beach, Florida
If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach, you can’t go wrong with Clearwater Beach. The white, powdery sand and gentle waters of the Gulf are ideal for families.
The kids can build a sandcastle, or you can sit and relax by the water. And, when you’re ready to take a break from the sun, there are also lots of restaurants and souvenir stores to visit.
3. Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May feels like walking into the past. It’s historic and beautiful and has some really lovely beaches — beaches that are quiet and ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.
You can walk around the Victorian streets and see how well-preserved the town is. It just a slow-paced getaway with a lot of old-world feelings.
4. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is the best all-encompassing beach destination. You can simply hole up at one of the resort hotels along the busy boardwalk, which is packed with things to do and see.
Or you can park yourself on the long, wide beach and have lunch in the sun and a swim in the surf. Myrtle Beach offers both a party or a peaceful retreat.
5. Outer Banks, North Carolina
If you’re looking for a more isolated and untamed beach experience, the Outer Banks of North Carolina are a wonderful destination for it.
These beaches are beautiful and pristine, and are ideal for surfing and simply immersing yourself in nature. In addition, there are some historic sights and museums around that focus on the sea, in case you get bored. It’s the perfect getaway!
West Coast Wonders
6. Santa Monica Beach, California
Santa Monica Beach screams quintessential SoCal. The well-known pier at one end – featuring an amusement park with a Ferris wheel – is a hit with the young and old alike.
Biking its bike-friendly trail is a wonderful way to experience the shoreline. If you enjoy beach volleyball, rolling down the boardwalk, or simply relaxing in the sun, you’ll find something to love in Santa Monica.
7. La Jolla Shores, California
If you’re with kids or love marine life, head to La Jolla Shores. This is the best area for snorkeling, though, so pack your snorkel gear and explore beneath the waves.
Look out for the sea lions though — they are all over the beach. The water is calm, and the sand is soft but this is a nice play-and-chill-on-the-beach kind of beach.
8. Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach is one of the beaches that stands out due to its natural beauty. The iconic Haystack Rock rising out of the water is very picturesque and beautiful.
This beach is ideal for photographers and for anyone who is interested in something a little different. Walk along the beach and visit the tide pools (if you can beat the crowds) and see starfish and other aquatic animals.
It’s a very picturesque place to see the ocean and the rugged Pacific Northwest coastline collide.
9. Coronado Beach, San Diego, California
Coronado Beach is famous for the Hotel del Coronado and is a wonderful place to visit and savour the beautiful surroundings.
The golden sand seems to shimmer in the sun, it’s definitely one of the prettiest beaches in the area. It’s ideal for families and couples hoping to get away, where they can build sandcastles and taking a stroll on the beach.
Between the hotel’s charm and the beach’s attractiveness, it’s simply fabulous.
10. Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur, California
Pfeiffer Beach is an idyllic hideaway nestled into the rugged cliffs of Big Sur. What’s unique about this place? The gorgeous purple sand caused by manganese garnet deposits.
Its wild and dramatic scenery makes for a tranquil, yet stunning setting, and it’s a great place for spiritual retreats. Just walk along the beach and admire the untamed beauty that makes it one of the area’s best-kept secrets.
Gulf Coast Getaways
11. Siesta Key Beach, Florida
Siesta Key Beach is a little paradise. Its sand (which is actually quartz) is incredibly soft and powdery and appears almost pure white.
You can walk along the beach, wade in the super gentle waves, and enjoy the chilled-out, laid-back vibes. You can lounge with a book and take a slow stroll. It’s your break from all the busyness. Go relax and sunbathe.
12. Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores (in Alabama) is warm water and a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a wonderful place to visit if you’re a traveling with family and want some adventure and relax time.
Waste your day building sandcastles, swimming in the ocean, and soaking up the sun! Lots of area attractions and nice people so you can enjoy yourself.
13. South Padre Island, Texas
South Padre Island is a fun-filled, festive destination, famous for its wild beach parties and endless water activities. Surf, swim, and party the night away! Head out into the waves on a surfboard or take a tour to see dolphins.
It’s party time and adventure time on this beach. Grab your buddies and head to this fun-in-the-sun Texas island.
Hawaiian Paradise
14. Waikiki Beach, Oahu
Waikiki Beach on Oahu is also a surfer’s and beach lover’s paradise. You can book surfing lessons directly on the beach, with Diamond Head right behind you.
The place is vibrant and always busy, with shops, restaurants, and fun all around. Ride the waves or sit back and enjoy the sunset. It’s always a good time on Waikiki.
15. Lanikai Beach, Oahu
Lanikai Beach is paradise defined, with its tranquil, turquoise water and powdery, white sand. This small, secluded beach is a great for a swim or for simply lazing around and taking in the view of the Mokulua Islands in the distance.
It’s also much less crowded, making it best for someone seeking tranquility and natural surroundings. Pack a lunch and spend a relaxing day in the warm Hawaiian weather.
16. Ka’anapali Beach, Maui
Ka’anapali Beach is famous for its upscale accommodations and large variety of attractions. If you like to snorkel, this is the place for you, as you’ll find tons of colorful fish right off the beach.
Take in a cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock at the end of the day — it’s a local tradition. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or splashing in the water, Ka’anapali has the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation.
17. Hapuna Beach, Big Island
Famed for its long crescent of golden sand, Hapuna Beach on the Big Island is the perfect spot to soak up the sun and take a dip.
The waters are generally calm, and bodyboarding is popular when the waves are up, attracting lots of families as well as novice and experienced surfers.
There are some facilities here should you want a break from the beach, including shady picnic areas. With so much to offer, Hapuna Beach is Hawaiian paradise.
Island & Tropical-Like Escapes
18. Assateague Island, Maryland/Virginia
Assateague Island feels like a world away, where wild horses rule the beach. The unspoiled nature is wonderful for the explorers and outdoorsy types out there.
The beaches are tranquil for some much-needed relaxation and time in nature. What a place to see animals and the ocean!
19. Dry Tortugas, Florida
Dry Tortugas is a remote and hard-to-get-to gem — you can only visit by boat or seaplane. With beautiful blue water, it’s the perfect place to snorkel, where you can see colorful fish and coral.
And for history buffs, there’s a 19th-century fort that adds an element of mystery and lets you step back in time. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that melds relaxation and exploration together in one beautiful place.
20. Flamenco Beach, Culebra, Puerto Rico
Flamenco Beach, located on the Puerto Rican island of Culebra, could be plucked straight out of a travel brochure. The water is perfectly clear, and the sand is so soft, you won’t mind using it as a pillow for hours.
Due to its remote location and picturesque natural scenery, this place has become a popular destination in the United States for photographers and anyone looking to escape from reality. It doesn’t get more picture-perfect than this.
Unique & Off-the-Beaten-Path Beaches
21. Glass Beach, Fort Bragg, California
Picture an entire beach blanket of sea glass! That’s Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, where nature has taken something bad (a landfill) and turned it into something beautiful.
All those beautiful pieces of glass were originally garbage but over time, the waves smoothed them out and now they cover the beach like a stunning mosaic! It’s a wonderful beachcombing activity.
22. Shi Shi Beach, Washington
If you want somewhere to explore, try Shi Shi Beach in Washington. This wild stretch of sand is worth the trek. You can only reach here by hiking in and you’ll be greeted by stunning landscape and wonderful views of sea stacks and tide pools.
The wild coastline creates a sense of remoteness and amazement. This is a real hidden destination for people looking to get outside.
23. Good Harbor Beach, Gloucester, Massachusetts
Good Harbor Beach is a postcard-worthy retreat in Gloucester. When the tide is low, you can stroll on the sand to a small nearby island, which is one of the reasons families love this place! It’s a gorgeous setting for the kids to have fun and play and the adults to relax.
The breathtaking views and laid-back atmosphere explain why this beach is so popular with locals.
FAQ
1. What makes U.S. beaches stand out compared to other international beaches?
The US offers an incredible diversity of beach experiences. From the excitement ofa trendy beach town like Miami to the beautiful tranquility of Hawaii. With almost 100,000 miles of shoreline, there’s something for everyone here.
2. Which U.S. beaches are best for water sports?
Destination, such as South Padre Island and Ka’anapali Beach, cater to watersports lovers, with plenty of…surfing, snorkeling, and even dolphin watching.
3. Can I access most of these beaches all year round?
While you can visit most beaches in the U.S. year-round, what you are able to do there will change. For example, in the cooler months some beaches are not as fun as in the summer. Some destinations, such as California and Florida, are always beach-friendly.
4. Are there any eco-friendly beaches in the U.S.?
Yes, a lot of U.S. beaches follow environmentally friendly guidelines, and that means there’s less pollution and better ways to experience the environment. Hawaii is one, Oregon is another, and California can still surprise you, like Big Sur.
Conclusion
The beaches in the United States aren’t all the same. The country boasts an incredibly diverse coastline, and from the crowded beaches of Miami and Oahu to the secluded beaches of Shi Shi and Dry Tortugas, there’s a pace and style for everyone.
Beaches reflect the destination around them, so whether you want to party, be in nature, or take a family vacation, there’s a beach that suits your travel style.
That’s half the fun. Just be sure to note the best time to visit, any rules in place, and enjoy your unforgettable US beach vacation!