Looking for the most beautiful US beaches to cool off this summer? The United States is home to a whole wide world of beautiful, diverse, and relaxing beaches that are just waiting for you to spread a towel down and enjoy the day.
In the plethora of best beaches in the USA, there are sunny oases made for playing in the waves and relaxing resort stays with nothing but the water to lull you to sleep.
These stunning beaches in the United States are fun for the whole family and perfect for a romantic couple's stay where you and your loved one can cheer for a fantastic beach vacation.
Here's the list of the 40 best beaches in the US for some fun in the sun.
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Nicknamed 'the crown city', this California beach is truly one of the best beaches in the USA. Here you can enjoy white sandy, Pacific coast livin’ paired with all the luxuries of San Diego’s outdoor beauty.
Coronado Beach is a great place to spend the day – whether you're walking the water's edge for miles, taking you into cute little shopping districts and delicious eateries, or simply relaxing by the water for some much-needed R&R time, this spot is sure to impress.
While this is a popular location for both tourists and locals, it rarely feels too crowded, with plenty of space to stretch out and all the comforts of a typical beach trip.
Coronado is a city as bright as its weather and includes a neighboring dog park and shopping district on the opposite end of the water.
Everything is easily accessible and easily walkable in this area, making for an ideal place to spend the day (or days). Coronado is a vibrant, colorful, exciting city made for all!
Accommodation: Where to stay near Coronado Beach
Address: 920 Ocean Blvd, Coronado, CA 92118
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in San Diego
Adequately named and effortlessly beautiful, Clearwater Beach is a renowned name in any list of the most beautiful US beaches.
Here, the soft white sand is just the beginning of what is sure to be a relaxing day by the water.
With gentle waves lapping the shore, and warm weather almost year-round, this is a popular spot for not just tourists but locals as well.
While that may sound like a whole lot of craziness on your calming trip, what's nice about Clearwater is that if you walk down the shoreline just a bit, you can typically always find your perfect secluded spot.
Or, if crowds are more your speed--- maybe even join in a volleyball game on the courts by the shore. There is plenty to join and lots of space to spread out at this beautiful Florida beach.
Address: 1 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767
Also Read: Best Beach Vacations in Florida
Startling blue waters, soft, inviting sand, and the ability to spread out for some much-needed "me" time are just a few of the luxuries that await travelers at East Hampton Main Beach.
The Hamptons are well-known for being some of the most beautiful beaches in the USA. While it is generally lauded as an expensive place to live, visitors from various financial backgrounds come to enjoy the calming beaches.
East Hampton Main Beach itself is an absolute must-visit while in the area, as it is a clean, quiet place to spread out and catch some rays.
If you're looking for some sweet serenity in your beach vacay, look no further than East Hampton Main Beach in New York!
Address: 101 Ocean Ave, East Hampton, NY 11937
Also Read: Best Beaches in New York
Goonies never die! Film fanatics and beach enthusiasts might recognize this location as the famed location in the famous movie "The Goonies".
Marked by towering cliffs that breach the water in several spotted points, this is a beach like few others. Stay to watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting an array of colors on both the sky and shore, or come and play the day away!
This beach is a fantastic location for those looking to get their toes wet as they walk the stunning views or for those just looking to lay out for a little.
While everyone will be shocked by the views here, photographers, artists and anybody looking for a little natural inspiration will love this site.
These structures complement the already beautiful backdrop of a Pacific Coast beach, giving the whole area an otherworldly feeling that's drawn travelers to its coastline for centuries.
Even the goonies couldn’t resist! However you choose to spend your vacation, you'll never forget Cannon Beach, Oregon, as one of the prettiest beaches in America.
Accommodation: Where to stay near Cannon Beach
Address: Cannon Beach, OR
Also Read: The Best West Coast Beaches You Must Visit
Often named one of the prettiest beaches in the US, no list is accurate without a strong mention of Poipu Beach, Kauai.
Palm trees swaying in the distance, surfers catching their next wave, and setting sun casting glorious oranges and reds on crystal clear blue waters. Poipu is the perfect painting of a beach come to life!
Kauai and Hawaii as a whole are known to have some of the most stunning views in the US, but Poipu Beach especially embodies all that makes it shine.
Good weather is just the start of a great vacation, and at this beach, you're sure to find something that is fun for the whole family.
Whether that's an expedition paddleboarding through the still water or renting some snorkeling gear to get an inside view of the water, these are the memories that will last a lifetime.
This is an easily walkable beach with incredible Hawaii views that make for a perfect picture no matter which way you turn.
Be sure to look into guided tours, resort stays, or rent out gear to get the full Poipu Beach experience. Or simply enjoy the good times and good vibes by letting the sun warm you while you lay underneath its rays.
There is no wrong way to do Poipu Beach; all you have to do is make it your own!
Address: Hoona Rd, Poipu, Koloa, Kauai, HI 96756
Also Read: Best Things To Do in Kauai For First-Timers
Sea, sun, and all the fun! Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is one of the best US beaches on the east coast.
For years, Cape Cod has been known as an ideal vacationing spot, but Coast Guard Beach itself deserves a special little shoutout for many reasons.
The blue-green water found at this beach entices everybody to cool down from that hot summer sun, and the tan sand is at just the right comfort level to lay the day away with your best friends.
Here, many people bring surfboards, boogie boards, or water toys to play amongst the waves, and games like horseshoe, volleyball, and soccer are regulars, too.
One of the more impressive and unique aspects of this destination is that in the summertime, between the parking lot and the beach, green breaks the transition from concrete to sand.
Tall beach grass and wildlife thrive just off the coast, making the scene a green to tan to blue color experience. Kids love to play here, and parents love to relax, making this the perfect family getaway.
Accommodation: Where to stay near Coast Guard Beach
Address: Eastham, MA 02642
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Cape Cod and the Islands
Leave your footprint in these sands! Ogunquit Beach is a getaway tailored for just about every kind of traveler.
Including those who like to keep active, trying their hand at one of the many water and land sports, and those who are mostly interested in that famously heard about but seldom seen relaxation.
While summer months can really draw the crowd, warm Spring and Fall days are best for a quiet affair with you and the calming sea.
Be sure to go early in the morning for the most amount of options, although there really aren’t many ‘bad’ spots in this paradise.
The beach and the area surrounding it curves, creating a small, walkable inlet that is well worth the steps.
Depending on the tide, little coastline ‘islands’ or small pools often form too, changing the scenery from hour to hour.
Maine is known to have gorgeous weather, but what better way to spend it than at one of the best beaches in the US? Ogunquit Beach is a dream beach vacation just waiting to happen!
Accommodation: Where to stay near Ogunquit Beach
Address: Beach Street, Ogunquit, ME 03907
Clear blue water and lush green trees await travelers at this Hawaiian paradise! Ka’anapali Beach is a Maui favorite and is mentioned in most travel ‘must do’ lists.
This is a jaw-dropping expanse of blue Pacific Ocean water, cradled by soft, tan sand open to all.
This is a popular stop for cruise ships, tour guides, and many more, making this a hotspot for lively activity as well.
Depending on wave flow, try paddleboarding, surfing, kayaking and so much more rented from one of the many vendors available. Or experience Ka’anapali on the luxurious side!
Resort hotels are no stranger to Maui’s coasts, and what better place to pamper yourself than on a Hawaiian Island shoreline.
Make sure to walk the beach too! There is so much to see, find, and enjoy that is best stumbled upon. Ka’anapali Beach is a perfect example of all that US beaches have to offer.
Address: Kaanapali, HI 96761
As you might have gathered from the name, beach walkers rejoice at the ethereal beauty of this South Carolina beach.
In Kiawah Island, the tides terraform the beach into a true sight to behold, and you'll want to see all of it! From the well-maintained public boardwalks that bring you on to soft, white sand, every part of this beach will soon be your favorite.
Walk along the shoreline and notice how the layout changes from low tide to high tide and back again. During low tide, there are often little standing water lakes that form, just off from where the sea meets the shoreline.
When the water rises again, it will rejoin to all become the Atlantic Ocean, but these little pools of water are great for walking in as you stroll or playing with to make that perfect structured sandcastle.
The only thing left to wonder about is when your next trip back is!
Address: 8 Beachwalker Dr, Kiawah Island, SC 29455
Everybody knows the Outer Banks beaches are out of this world! North Carolina beaches are often lauded as a must-visit, with picturesque scenes of lighthouses breaching the skyline and soft blue-green waves cresting on the sand throughout the shoreline.
These are the kind of views found in 'want to get away?' pictures and travel ads that entice the viewer to imagine themselves resting on a beach that gorgeous.
Here, the beach is so much more than just the stretch of land in front of the ocean. The community here is a welcoming, bright, and relaxing environment to spend as much time off as possible in.
You can peruse local shops that sell goods not found elsewhere or try some dishes that will soon become your favorite.
Gaze out at the long line of stunning beach homes with complementary colors or walk to the nearest lighthouse for a picture that's sure to make the scrapbook.
Whatever you're looking to do, Cape Hatteras is sure to deliver perfectly!
Address: 1401 National Park Drive, Avon, NC 27915
Appropriately named, Driftwood Beach is one of the prettiest US beaches that makes a name for itself in uniqueness.
Washing up on shore throughout the years, there are some magnificent trees with long winding branches that set a beautiful backdrop to any Jekyll Island stay.
This is a great spot for any photographers looking for their next best shot, as the setting (or rising) sunset behind the spectacular tree limbs, cradled by the beach scenery, is a look like no other.
It is also a fantastic beach to get some much-needed personal time in. While it's a well-known spot in Georgia, you can often find a nice quiet spot to set up for the day.
Lay your towel down, put up an umbrella and enjoy the soothing sounds of just you and the water.
Address: Beachview Drive, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
A sandy home away from home! Henderson Beach State Park is a chill, relaxed beach park in Destin, Florida, often referred to as one of the prettiest beaches in the US.
Maybe it's the atmosphere with a well-loved community surrounding the beach, and perhaps it's the shockingly clear water that invites all to its depths.
Whatever it is, you'll always want more! Relax under that famous Florida sunshine or bring your sport of choice for a quick pick-up game.
Be sure to keep an eye out for beautiful seashells that wash up upon the shore.
Walking the waterline is one of the best ways to find the freshest picks, and with Florida waters, you're sure to get something spectacular to take home as a memory of all the best views.
With this heat and water so gorgeous, cooling off here is a highlight, and never has vacation looked so golden.
Accommodation: Where to stay near Henderson Beach State Park
Address: 17000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541
La Jolla Cove is nothing short of an explorer's paradise! This is a truly stunning California beach that puts on display everything that makes the area so great.
From little waterway paths that take you beneath towering cliffs and crystal-clear blue water, La Jolla looks like photoshop come alive.
This is one of the top spots for active beachgoers interested in kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and so much more.
It's highly recommended to get a tour here because while some of the caves and enticing cliff monuments look inviting, not all of them are open to the public.
Guides are a great way to learn the lay of the land on your water excursion to make sure you see only the best. Or try more of sand and sunshine view, and enjoy the view put forth by one of the most beautiful beaches in the US.
Accommodation: Where to stay near La Jolla Cove
Address: 1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037
Also Read: The Best West Coast Beaches You Must Visit
As the title beach for the state, Virginia Beach can't be beaten! This is an outdoor haven, where warm months are spent amongst good company and the best vibes.
A long pier extends from city life far into the water, with a walk that is both charming, easy, and comfortable.
After a pleasant stroll through the eateries and shops available, find your perfect spot and set up shop for the day as you enjoy the kind of vacation Virginia Beach was made to impress.
Kids can play in the typically soft waves that breach the shore, and adults can enjoy some sweet serenity as you rest under the shadow of a beach umbrella.
This is also an ideal location for anybody looking to work up a sweat or try a new hobby.
Check out paddleboard rentals in the area, or if the waves are right, try to surf! There are so many options available at Virginia Beach; you'll want to keep coming back for more!
Address: Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Also Read: Best Things To Do in Virginia Beach
Myrtle Beach takes ‘fun in the sun’ to a whole new level! You might know Myrtle Beach from the famed Ferris Wheel just on its shores, or maybe some of the other attractions and rides available within walking distance from the water, but the beach itself is an experience all on its own.
Rows of umbrellas and beach chairs line the shoreline, with patrons from all over the world coming to enjoy the cool, calming waves.
The pier is another must-see spot while visiting this South Carolina beach as some of the best coastline food, souvenirs, and so much more can be found here.
Especially on warm summer nights and weekends throughout the year, you can often find something exciting and original going on at this famous gem of a beach.
For people looking for a bit of luxury on their vacation, Myrtle Beach is a great place to look for resorts too.
Try a beachside massage or a dip in the pool after a day in the sand, and you'll understand why Myrtle Beach is often considered one of the best beaches in the US.
Accommodation: Where to stay near Myrtle Beach
Address: Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Also Read: 21 Best East Coast Beaches You Must Visit
With a city bordering the sandy beach, Waikiki Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the USA, without a doubt.
Circling the clear, blue water only broken by white waves or wildlife, Waikiki is the kind of Hawaiian vacation you don't have to just dream about--- you can live it.
Hotels here border the water so that your walk to the beach is just under 5 minutes, and even Airbnbs or stays a bit farther out is a short ride to some of the most amazing views on the island.
It is also one of the most visited and well-loved beaches. So, if you're looking to make some friends or maybe even try your hand at a surfing lesson, or snorkeling, Waikiki Beach is the way to go.
Sunset sailing is another great option if you want to see the beach from a different angle, and the Diamond Head hike is an eagles-eye view of the stellar stop itself.
There is so much to explore, so many ways to enjoy, and so much to love about Waikiki Beach, you'll want to make it an extended trip immediately.
Address: Kalakaua Avenuue, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96815
Also Read: Best Tropical Destinations in the US
As one of the most well-known beaches in the USA, South Beach is an absolute must on any oceanside bucket list. Here you can find just about everything.
From family fun by the shore to moonlight beach parties that will have you dreaming of Miami for years to come.
If you're looking for a full-time, fun vacation, this is one of the best beach destinations in the US, with the bustling downtown city center right next to it.
Drink in a cozy little cabana as the setting sun casts golden rays on the water or enjoy a fancy meal from a restaurant; you'll never forget that it overlooks the water.
Pack a picnic lunch so you won't have to leave your fabulous spot, or simply come for a walk along the shoreline to see it all.
Don’t forget to look down, as some of the best seashells are found stumbled upon. Every wave brings in a new pool of something cool to show the family, and each shell is like a snowflake: original and special.
South Beach is a great choice for near year-round fun, as Florida winters are famously tame, and there is always something exciting to find in Miami, Florida.
Address: Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Miami
Hikers and those who prefer a forested mountain to a sprawl of beach: rejoice! For Sand Beach, Acadia National Park is here!
As one of the most secluded and densely forested US beaches, no list is complete without mentioning wild beauty.
As it resides in Acadia National Park, this is a well-maintained, well-monitored beach that is particularly popular in the warmer months of Maine.
Miles upon miles extends past the beach into thick, green, towering forests that make the whole landscape a picture-perfect scene, opening perfectly up into the sandy shores of the Atlantic Ocean.
Relatively close to Bar Harbor, this is also a great spot for anybody looking to make a day trip.
The Acadia National Park is an ideal spot for hiking, and while it may not be the Smoky or Rocky Mountains, some of the magnificent breaks here set one of the most spectacular views available in the East.
If your kind of comfort comes from nature, Sand Beach is a great option for your next beach outing.
Address: Acadia National Park, ME
Go for a vacation in gorgeous Gulf Shores! If your seaside retreats are looking for a little southern comfort, look no further than Orange Beach.
This is a mesmerizing stretch of sand that has plenty of space for the whole family to play.
It's an especially great place to get a hotel, as even on the other side of the beach, back beyond the main street and line of hotels and motels with vacancy, there's a gorgeous body of shimmering blue water.
Here, you can wake up to the sun glittering off the inlet and have dinner where the sun sets on Gulf Shores.
Orange Beach is a beloved US beach destination for its easy accessibility, affordability, and, most importantly: beauty! Once you dip your toes in this cool gulf coast water, you won't want to leave.
Address: Orange Beach, AL
Also Read: Best Alabama Beaches You Must Visit
That picturesque, crystal clear beach with feather-light white sand isn't just a dream to wish upon throughout the workweek. It's real, and it's one of the most beloved clear water beaches in the USA.
Found on the shoreline of a beautiful small town, Siesta Beach is a year-round favorite.
Despite a few rainy days and occasional Florida 'cold', this beach is open to fun near 365 days a year, with a town to support it all.
Whether it's your new favorite pair of shades and sandals or one of the best seafood meals you've ever had, this local community will surely impress.
While summers are always a popular beachin’ choice, this beach stretches far enough to accommodate just about everyone.
Walk a short way to your private, quiet spot, or make some new friends just a beach umbrella over, because everybody loves Siesta Beach.
Address: 948 Beach Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
Easton's, or for more locals, 'First Beach' is one of the largest and most well-recommended beautiful U.S. beaches in the area.
This white sand beach is easily accessible and reaches out far across the coastline to welcome patrons from all over.
Throughout the summer, this beach even has daytime lifeguards stationed throughout the destination, making sure all your fun is safe.
There are often rentals found around many outdoor and seaside activities like biking the coastline or breaking the waves in a boat excursion. And while this may be a relatively popular spot, and summertime mainly draws the crowd, it never feels like there's no room for you.
With miles of soft, tempting sand, you can choose your ultimate spot for the summer sun for one of the best beach vacations in the US.
Address: 175 Memorial Blvd, Newport, RI 02840
Just on the outskirts of Cleveland, Ohio lies one of middle America's best and favored beaches.
Headlands Beach State Park is a beautiful expanse of sandy beaches that people from all over the country come to see.
With sunny days and soft winds to make the heat just right in the summertime, this is one of the best beaches in the US for a much-needed getaway.
The city surrounding the town is a beautiful, welcoming spot with many local spots to grab a bite at, and if you're flying in from anywhere around the country, Cleveland is only a short drive away.
Come for a weekend or make it an extended stay and see what makes Headlands so extraordinary.
Address: 9601 Headlands Rd, Mentor, OH 44060
Just across the waterline coast between Delaware and New Jersey is a beloved northeastern beach that is as beautiful as fun!
"The Cove" is a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike and features a wide array of nearby eateries, hotels, and even some charming, secluded sections for anybody looking to get away from the action.
Walk the beach all the way to the lighthouse for the kind of seaside memories you’ll never forget or splash the day out with the family in the soft Atlantic waves.
This is an ideal beach vacation for families and children as lifeguards patrol the area from July 1st to Labor Day, 10 am to 5:30 pm.
Get your comfort with a side of security, and come see what makes Cove Beach, Cape May such a spectacular US beach.
Address: Cape May, NJ
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Cape May
Just beyond the beautiful Rehoboth pier lies one of Delaware's premier beaches.
Coated in soft, tan sand and gently washed over by gentle waves, Rehoboth is one of the best options for travelers looking for the best beach vacations in the USA.
Here, you can throw down a towel and listen to the soothing sounds of summer fun and pack up and walk the pier as the sun starts to dip low.
On this pier, you can find so many local shops selling unique Delaware souvenirs and some of the best food in the state.
This is a bustling seaside shopping center that makes your stay at the beach even more comfortable, like dinner, lunch, or even just some post-sunset fun awaits.
Address: Rehoboth Beach, DE
Also Read: The Best Beaches in Delaware
Nestled just off the coast of Southern Texas, South Padre Island is one of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast.
This little resort town is perfect for anybody looking for some sun-soaked R&R. This is a great destination for luxury beachgoers and high-quality resort enthusiasts.
There is a wide selection throughout the island to choose your specific kind of comfort, and even if you're looking for more budget options, inland Texas has plenty of options only a short drive from the beach.
One of the main attractions here is actually the wildlife! Whether you're gazing out from the 5-story watchtower as majestic local birds take flight or riding on a boat excursion tour, you're sure to see something new.
South Padre is fun for all!
Address: South Padre Island, TX 78597
Also Read: The Best Gulf Coast Beaches You Must Visit
Hearing the call of the mountains? Olympic National Park is a bucket list item all on its own, but what some travelers might not know is the stunning beach lying just within.
Here, you not only get one of the most spectacular views of lush green forests, but you also get your Pacific seaside cool-down that is needed in any coastal trip.
You'll find the beaches often covered in the remnants of the forest, with warm sand and stone covering the water's edge, trees bordering the outline, and jaw-dropping cliffs that pierce the water throughout the view.
Ruby Beach is unlike most others and is often lauded as one of the best beaches in the US.
Address: Olympic National Park, WA
If your getaway idea is to relax while taking in the stunning city views, look no further than North Avenue Beach in Chicago.
Just on the outskirts of the beautiful, bustling town lays a blue water oasis that will have you forgetting all your worries except what time that beautiful sunset.
This is an excellent option for those who love city life or maybe even want to visit Chicago but don't want to miss out on those sunny summer days by the water.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the unique view of one of the United States' best cities from the seashore. It should come as no surprise when this gets called by locals and tourists alike, one of the most beautiful beaches in the USA.
Address: 1600 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60613
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Chicago
The seaside festival that never ends! Ocean City Beach, Maryland, is one of the best beach vacations in the USA for anybody who loves a lively pier.
This is a great place to do a bit of shopping, grab a delicious bite to eat, or simply just enjoy the atmosphere as the sun casts a fading light on the spirited walkway.
There are often small-town vendors, attractions, and rotating events that happen here that make your beach trip not just a stay but an experience.
The beach itself is a beautiful wide expanse of tan sand, inviting you into the soft waves to cool off. And of course, don’t forget to try the seafood!
Address: Ocean City, MD
Nestled in the forested burrows of California wildlife lies one of the most spectacular beaches in the US.
Pfeiffer Beach and Big Sur as a whole is a big name in the Pacific Coast community--- for surfers and spectators alike.
While Pfeiffer Beach isn't particularly notable for its surf-ability with large rocky structures breaking up the waves just a few miles out from the coast, this is a favored spot for those looking for a bit more peace than Big Sur tends to attract.
Pfeiffer Beach is a great place to set up shop for the day and then walk the expanse of the beach when you feel like sightseeing a bit.
Whether you're looking for a day of serenity by the Pacific or trying to spot some of the next big surfing things, Pfeiffer Beach is a great place for your next seaside vacation.
Address: Sycamore Canyon Road, Big Sur, CA 93920
Whether you've heard of Cumberland Island, Georgia, before or this is your first introduction: this stunning beach will shock you!
While it houses all the luxuries of a typical beach: sandy toes and fun in the sun, this beach is unique in many ways.
Cumberland Island is Georgia's largest barrier beach, meaning it actually hangs a little out from Georgia's coast. But the real draw is the attractions: this beach is often home to numerous horses, perusing the land and enjoying the day away amongst patrons of Cumberland Island.
This is also an island full of history! There are numerous longstanding historical buildings and ruins to explore, just a few miles out from sandy shores and relaxation.
Check out Dungeness Ruins, Stafford Plantation, or the National Seashore and find your favorite spot on one of the most interesting US beaches.
Address: St Marys, GA 31558
First Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Washington State near the Olympic National Park.
First Beach has been an integral part of the Quileute Nation's history and culture for centuries and is run by its tribal council.
However, that doesn't mean you can't go there and enjoy this pristine slice of beachfront real estate.
It's the perfect place to watch the sunset, and although there are some rules you must abide by while you're visiting, the Quileute people are very open, welcoming, and accommodating.
On the beach, several huge rocks are jutting out from the water, which is an interesting aesthetic if you're unused to that sort of thing.
There are also cabin and beach camping sites along with plenty of exploration opportunities in the surrounding area.
Address: First Beach Rd, La Push, WA 98350
Carmel Beach was already one of the best beaches in America, but it seemingly grows in popularity as each year goes by. It's renowned for its white sand and its vibrant and accommodating surrounding community.
If you have dogs along for the ride, you're in luck. Carmel Beach has plenty of areas along its stretch that are pet friendly.
Carmel Beach has a fairly popular primary area, but you can head south along the shoreline if you're looking for something a little quieter and secluded.
It's also one of the most kid-friendly beach options in the entire state of California.
With dogs allowed and the kid-friendly atmosphere of both the beach and the surrounding community, Carmel Beach is one of the best destinations on the west coast for families.
Address: Ocean Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
When most people think about beaches, the last thing they think about is a borough in New York City. The reality is that one of the best beaches in America is found here, otherwise known as Rockaway Beach.
Rockaway Beach is a huge local attraction and a big tourism draw to the area. Millions flow through the area from the early spring months until late summer. It's the only area throughout New York City where people can legally surf.
Kayakers, canoers, boaters, SUPs, and surfboards dominate the scene. It's a beautiful slice of the beach set against the megalithic backdrop of New York City itself.
There are a ton of concessions throughout the area, along with beachside activities, restaurants, and shopping opportunities.
Address: Beach 86th St, Far Rockaway, NY 11693
Park Point Beach is actually a single, giant sand dune stretching along the coast of Lake Superior. If you've never been to a beach on the Great Lakes, you're truly missing out.
The Great Lakes are so huge that you wouldn't know the difference standing on the shoreline between it and a beach on the Atlantic coast.
This is one of the more laid-back beaches on the list and easily one of the best US beaches.
The beach is situated between the pine-dotted landscape of the nearby woods and Lake Superior. It's an attractive aesthetic, pines and beaches.
If you're a bird watcher, this is one of the best places in the state to be, especially if you are looking to spot the peregrine falcon.
There are plenty of hiking trails throughout the area, along with pavilions for picnics, paved paths, and beach houses.
Address: Duluth, MN 55806
Among the most charming beach destinations in the USA is Asbury Park Beach in New Jersey. Asbury Park Beach features an extensive boardwalk loaded with fun activities, concessions, bars, and even the Paramount Theater.
It's also a place where festivals and local community events are very common, so you should check the local calendar before heading out.
The beach itself is beautiful, and when set against one of the most famous boardwalks in America, it's no wonder it's one of the most popular beaches around.
The Asbury Park Zombie Walk is a popular area event, and there is no better place to be when it comes time to catch the July 4 or New Year's fireworks shows.
The restaurants are also incredible; you'll find everything from Japanese to Greek dining along the boardwalk.
Address: Asbury Park, NJ 07712
Alki Beach is a vast stretch of beachfront real estate surrounded by the local city. It's a different kind of view, with rolling waves set against businesses and apartments that run right up to the water.
The local community takes outstanding care of the area, and you'll find gorgeous floral displays and some of the prettiest sunsets you can imagine on a clean, pristine beach.
The water is a constantly busy thoroughfare, with steamboats, ferries, fishing vessels, kayaks, and sailboats everywhere.
There is a beach volleyball course and a ton of local activities to engage in. The local restaurants in the area are very popular, and there's even a local park with a Ferris wheel and other rides and concession stands to enjoy.
Address: 1702 Alki Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116
Connecticut found its way onto the best United States beaches list with Ocean Beach Park, a sugar sand beach often compared to the sugar sand beaches along the Florida panhandle.
The beach access portion is a half-mile stretch, but there always seems to be plenty of room for everyone.
Along the beach, you will also find an Olympic size swimming pool, which may seem out of place, yet incredibly popular with the kids.
There is also a miniature golf course, snack bars, cafes, and a boardwalk full of even more amenities, such as the Sandbar Cafe, Denny's Sand Castle, and the Boardwalk Creamery.
As beautiful as the beach is, you may spend a considerable chunk of your time just marveling at everything the boardwalk has to offer.
Address: 98 Neptune Ave, New London, CT 06320
As the above title implies, Assateague Beach stretches across state lines. It's also on an island, so you have to ferry out to it if you want to enjoy what one of the most beautiful beaches in the US has to offer.
Despite its island positioning, its two miles of beachfront are an absolute blast for locals and tourists alike.
The Tom's Cove Visitor Center is the place to go for all the information you could possibly want on the area.
In terms of exploration, there is the incredible Assateague Lighthouse, Refuge Trek tours, a ton of nature and hiking trails to explore, the beach itself (which allows campfires on the beach, by the way), and even a place to bring four-wheelers out on the sand.
Address: Assateague Island, MD 21811
Also Read: 15 Best Maryland Beaches You Must Visit
Lake Tahoe is a beautiful lake with an even better beach. In fact, it's easily one of the best United States beaches and a huge attraction throughout the area.
If you hit it up in the middle of the summer, you'll find it difficult to find some parking spaces, though it's worth the frustration.
The beach is flanked by Emerald Bay State Park, a hidden gem in the world that must be seen and experienced to be believed.
The top of the cliffs in Emerald Bay State Park (carved over eons from the shifting glaciers of the ice age) is the best view of Pope Beach you will find.
Pope Beach is a SUP boarder’s or kayaker’s paradise, with calm waters surrounded by ice-capped mountains.
The air is clean and brisk, even in the beating heart of the summer months. It's an extraordinary and uplifting experience that is a must-stop on any road trip through the area.
Address: 8338 N Lake Blvd, Kings Beach, CA 96143
Marathon, Florida, maybe a fishing community, but it also has one of the best US beaches you're likely to find on any list. Marathon is a "key," one of the several islands extending from the southern tip of the Florida peninsula.
It's a stunning slice of white sand heaven, surrounded by playgrounds, facilities, restaurants, and more.
There are plenty of exploration opportunities as well. You will find turtles nesting, gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, snorkeling, and kayaking.
One of the best parts about the beaches in the Florida Keys, specifically Sombrero Beach, is that you can go there almost year-round. In South Florida, the harshest winters are balmy and breezy.
Address: Sombrero Beach Rd, Marathon, FL 33050
An interactive map of the best beaches in the United States. Use the map to explore all the top beaches.
Clearwater Beach has been named the #1 Beach in America for its white sand and beautiful blue waters. The water at Clearwater Beach in Florida is so clear that you can see the sand 20 feet below the surface.
There are many pretty beaches in America. Below are the top 3:
Some of the most famous beaches in America can be found on the East Coast, such as those in Florida and Massachusetts. But the West Coast has its own claim of lovely beaches, like those in California and Oregon.
California has the most beaches in the US. The Golden State has a whopping 840 miles of coastline compared to Florida's 825 miles. And while Florida may have more beach towns than California, when it comes to the sheer number of beaches, California wins hands down.
Soak up the sun in Southern California at one of the many beaches lining the coast. For a more relaxed vacation, head to Hawaii and enjoy the turquoise waters and sandy beaches. If you're looking for a historic beach vacation, check out Cape Cod in Massachusetts.
You can find cheap accommodations in famous beach towns of Florida like Panama City Beach and Daytona Beach. Hawaii is also an excellent option for an affordable beach vacation. The island of Maui offers 120 miles of coastline for plenty of water fun.
What's a vacation without a bit of relaxation? The United States is home to a wide variety of beaches for every kind of traveler.
Whether relaxing means exploring the expanse of the beach in search of all the sights or simply throwing down a towel on the softest sand you've felt in years, the prettiest beaches in the USA will have you dreaming of the shores for years to come.
Play for a day or come back throughout the year; these are 40 of the best beaches in the USA, just waiting for the next explorer.