Best us beach vacation spots
Finding the best beach vacation spots is a challenge. You don’t want to just choose any beach, you want something more unique and exciting. Maybe you want jungle instead of sand? Maybe a white, wintery beach? Maybe you’re just looking for time with friends or family on a small island secluded from the rest of the world. Every person is different and therefore every vacation should be too. That’s why picking the best us beach vacation spots is difficult. Instead of forcing yourself into one category, why not try them all?
The east coast states of North Carolina and South Carolina are known for their gorgeous coastline that is rated as the best beaches in the US by TripAdvisor. The perfect vacation spots will have you unwind and enjoy the beach waves, beautiful sun sets, and smell of fresh sea breeze. With so many options to choose from, you should consider these best beach vacation spots.
Of all the vacation spots in the United States, which are the best? We chose our favorite beaches in the US and then ranked them based on numerous criteria.
The best US beach vacation spots are the ones that offer you a chance to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. Here are some of our favorites:
- Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina
- Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland/Virginia
- Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, Massachusetts/New Hampshire
- Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts
- Gulf Islands National Seashore, Mississippi/Alabama/Florida
The US has a lot of great beaches, but some are better than others. Here are our top picks for the best US beach vacation spots:
- Miami Beach, FL: This is an old-school “classic” beach town. It’s got a great vibe, lots of restaurants and shopping opportunities, and it’s relatively easy to get around by foot or by public transportation. There are also plenty of hotels around if you’re looking for something more luxurious than camping out on the sands (not that we don’t encourage that).
- Cape Cod, MA: This is a great spot if you want to get away from it all while still having plenty to do within driving distance. Cape Cod is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the country—and we mean seafood as in clams, not just fish—so if seafood is your thing (or even if it isn’t), this is your place! Plus, there are tons of beaches here that range from white sand beaches with calm waters perfect for swimming to rocky outcroppings with strong waves perfect for surfing or kiteboarding.
Poipu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES/GALLO IMAGES
Located on the sunny southern shore of Kauai, Poipu Beach is actually made up of two spectacular beaches separated by a narrow sand spit called a tombolo. One side is referred to as Baby Beach, where the water is very shallow and sheltered, and the other is popular for surfing, snorkeling, windsurfing, and boogie boarding. Both sides offer breathtaking views, and if you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of an endangered Hawaiian monk seal sunbathing.
Ocean City, Maryland
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
Ten miles of white-sand beach plus a three-mile boardwalk packed with amusement park rides, bike rentals, shops, and delectable treats make Ocean City Beach a popular vacation spot. You’ll find a variety of hotels, restaurants, and even a brewery on the boardwalk. Jet skiing, surf fishing, and fishing charters are popular here as well.
Coronado Beach, San Diego, California
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
The warm, sunny weather is reason enough to visit San Diego. Coronado Beach, a mile-and-a-half stretch of golden sand sparkling with bits of the mineral mica, is a popular family-friendly spot. Swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers flock here by day and stay to witness the gorgeous sunsets. The storied Hotel del Coronado is an elegant backdrop and a great place to enjoy a bite or sunset cocktail. Dog-friendly North Beach is an added attraction.
Pope Beach, Lake Tahoe, Nevada
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America, sits on the border of California and Nevada and is known for its beaches and ski resorts. Located on the south shore of the lake, Pope Beach is a nearly mile-long stretch of sand backed by shady pine trees. The beach offers excellent swimming, picnicking, and views of the Nevada mountains. Kayak rentals, picnic tables, and barbecue grills are also on hand.
Clearwater Beach, Clearwater, Florida
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
Clearwater Beach boasts gorgeous white sand that stretches two and a half miles along the Gulf of Mexico. Pier 60, a hub for entertainment, is centrally located on the beach, and cabanas, umbrella chairs, and a well-equipped playground only add to the family fun. Visitors can rent fishing gear and drop a line off the pier for some of the best year-round fishing in Florida. Clearwater Beach also promises outstanding sunsets, and Pier 60 provides nightly entertainment 365 days a year, weather permitting.
Harris Beach, Oregon
CREDIT: DOUG OGDEN/GETTY IMAGES/DESIGN PICS RF
Harris Beach, located in a state park on Oregon’s south coast, is known for its miles of sandy shoreline, interesting rock formations, and incredible tide pools. Swimming, hiking, biking, and bird watching are some of the most popular activities here. Abundant wildlife, including migrating gray whales, harbor seals, and California sea lions, adds to year-round excitement. Plus, fully-equipped campgrounds for RVs, tents, and even a few yurts are located a quarter-mile from the beach.
Glass Beach, Port Townsend, Washington
CREDIT: LAUREL TROY/EYEEM/GETTY IMAGES
Glass Beach, so named for its abundance of jewelry-quality sea glass, is a remote bluff and former town dump. Beginning in North Beach, the hike to the beach is about three miles, and it includes treasures along the way. Hikers should get a timely start to beat the high tide and enjoy the views that include sea otters, bald eagles, and whales. Leashed dogs are permitted on the trail as well.
Oak Street Beach, Chicago, Illinois
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
The impressive Chicago skyline serves as the backdrop for this popular beach, located on the shores of Lake Michigan. Lounge chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas are available for rent, and there’s a variety of food from local vendors. Bikers, joggers, walkers, and rollerbladers abound on the paved path surrounding the beach. Relax in the sun, people-watch, or get in on a volleyball game or chess match — the choice is yours.
Carlsmith Beach, Hilo, Hawaii
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES/LONELY PLANET IMAGES
Not your average sandy stretch, Carlsmith Beach is a grassy, tree-filled park overlooking brilliant lava-ringed lagoons. The clear turquoise waters here are protected by a reef, making the area excellent for snorkeling. An abundance of friendly sea turtles adds to the uniquely enjoyable experience. Pack your lunch and take in the gorgeous views from a shady picnic table.
Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
Just across a drawbridge from the mainland lies the quaint Atlantic waterfront town called Wrightsville Beach. More than just a sleepy beach town, though, Wrightsville Beach offers water sports like surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and kiteboarding. Rent a rod and some bait and drop a line off Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier. Meanwhile, beach bars and live music take the party from daytime into the night.
Grand Haven State Park, Michigan
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, this 48-acre park with powdery white sand offers activities like fat-tire biking, barbecuing, sunbathing, swimming, and volleyball. There’s also a playground for the children as well as scenic views of the lake and the Grand Haven South Pier and Lighthouse. Come for the beach and stay for the incredible sunsets.
Santa Monica Beach, California
CREDIT: ALEXANDER SPATARI/GETTY IMAGES
This vibrant stretch along the Pacific is a prime spot for partaking in all the usual beach activities: sunbathing, swimming, surfing, volleyball, and watching sunsets. But it’s the Santa Monica Pier, which features an iconic amusement park complete with a roller coaster, Ferris wheel, games, and a selection of carnival food, that sets it apart from the rest. Heal the Bay Aquarium beneath the Ferris wheel offers hands-on educational fun for the kids. You can also bike, jog, or walk along the path to nearby Venice Beach.
Medano Creek, Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES/GALLO IMAGES
Medano Creek in Great Sand Dunes National Park is a wide, shallow river that emerges every spring and disappears every August. The creek is dependent on the amount of snow in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, since the runoff forms this annual phenomenon. Visitors can enjoy wading in the water, tubing, skimboarding, and building sand castles. Because of the limited time-frame, it’s best to plan your trip for weekdays in late May or early June.
North Beach, Tybee Island, Georgia
CREDIT: JOSEPH SHIELDS/GETTY IMAGES
Reachable in about 20 minutes by car or shuttle from Savannah, North Beach is a peaceful, family-friendly spot frequented by locals. The stunning 360-degree views from the top of the historical Tybee Island Lighthouse are well worth the climb, especially during sunrise and sunset. Located between the beach and lighthouse, North Beach Bar and Grill is a casual, dog-friendly restaurant with a tasty menu and outdoor patio.
Good Harbor Beach, Gloucester, Massachusetts
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
Good Harbor Beach is a family-friendly spot with sugar-soft sand and relatively calm water. At low tide, you can walk across a sand bar and explore rocky Salt Island, while little ones get to play in warm tidal pools. Tasty snacks and water toy rentals are available at the concession stand. Note that parking is limited and fills up fast, so arriving early is suggested. Off-site parking and shuttling over are other options.
Rockaway Beach, Queens, New York
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
This may not be your typical palm-tree-lined beach, but for New Yorkers who can hop on a subway or bus to reach its white sand, five-mile boardwalk, and surfer-worthy waves, it’s weekend heaven. The boardwalk is new, and the beach has recovered nicely following Hurricane Sandy in 2012. This beach also features a skate park, volleyball and handball courts, playgrounds, spray showers, and restrooms. Barbecue areas for picnicking and eateries along the boardwalk ensure that no one goes home hungry.
Crystal Lake State Park, Barton, Vermont
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
Lined with about a mile of white sand and backed by scenic mountains, Crystal Lake’s rich history dates back to the 1700s. The large, historic granite bathhouse with showers and a concession stand is made from rock mined from the nearby hills. It’s a wonderful place to picnic, swim, and fish. Canoes and an on-site cabin are available for rent.
Gulf Shores Public Beach, Alabama
CREDIT: JIM MCKINLEY/GETTY IMAGES
Pretty palm trees, clear water, and pristine white sand make this beach a standout. It’s located close to the boardwalk, restaurants, and shops with easy access to parking. The well-kept beach is also a great place for activities like volleyball and boogie boarding in the relatively calm surf. And the $3 fee to enter the pier is worth the experience to watch the friendly fishermen, the hungry pelicans, and the occasional dolphins passing by.