Summary
The United States is home to some of the most diverse and fascinating landscapes globally—from the frigid tundra of Alaska and the lush swamps of Florida, to the mountainous regions of Montana and the deserts of Nevada. Additionally, it features some of the best beaches worldwide, found both along its expansive coastline and on the shores of its large lakes. Here, we present 10 of the finest beaches available in the States!
1. Santa Monica, California
Located not far from downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica stands as one of the most renowned beaches in Southern California, and its popularity is evident. The beach stretches more than 3.5 miles of coastline and attracts numerous visitors due to its pristine waters, soft sands, and proximity to numerous renowned attractions. Its considerable length divides the beach into North and South sections, separated by a pier positioned at the midpoint of the shoreline.
2. Miami Beach, Florida
Miami Beach offers a little something for everyone. Families and party enthusiasts alike will find comfort on the warm sands of South Beach. For those seeking a respite from the inviting sea and sand, there are numerous activities available in the vicinity. Visitors may opt to explore the iconic Miami Art Deco architecture or revel in the vibrant nightlife that Miami has to offer. A sought-after experience is taking a water taxi over to Biscayne Bay, positioning you perfectly to watch a Miami Heat game!
3. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
Waikiki Beach, situated on the southern shore of Honolulu, is a favored destination for both tourists and locals. Visitors often find accommodations in close proximity to the beach, which is advantageous. After all, Waikiki is widely regarded as the birthplace of modern surfing—and what better locale to catch a wave than Waikiki Beach, with its calm, unspoiled waters and the majestic “Diamond Head” as your backdrop?
4. Hilton Head, South Carolina
Hilton Head is a small island located just off the South Carolina coast, interconnected to the mainland via a bridge. It has become a notable destination for tourists. This could be attributed to the island’s 24 golf courses or possibly its 350 tennis courts. However, the primary allure for visitors is undoubtedly Hilton Head’s 12 miles of stunning beaches. Bright sunshine, soft sands, and warm waters create an exceptional day for families—and many of Hilton Head’s beaches are wheelchair accessible as well!
5. US Virgin Islands
The US Virgin Islands feature some of the most tranquil and breathtaking beaches globally. It is no surprise they attract numerous celebrities seeking relaxation! From the US National Park Service-protected Trunk Bay to the pristine sands of Guana Island, the US Virgin Islands offer a variety of experiences; indulging in sunbathing on the beach is an idyllic way to enjoy your time there. Ample sunshine, untouched sands, and sparkling aquamarine waters will provide an unforgettable experience.
6. Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks consist of a series of barrier islands situated just off the coast of North Carolina and have gained immense popularity among tourists—thanks largely to their “unpopulated, unspoiled, and always accessible” beaches, which provide miles of pristine coastline to explore! The laid-back environment of the Outer Banks makes the beaches ideal for sunbathing and leisure reading, while more adventurous visitors will relish the multitude of water sports available. Indeed, the beaches of the Outer Banks are regarded as some of the finest on the East Coast for surfing!
7. Bradford Beach, Milwaukee
While many beaches on this list are coastal, Bradford Beach stands out as an exception. Situated along the shore of a scenic lake, this beach is a favored destination when the weather is pleasant in Milwaukee! Both tourists and locals can enjoy the gentle breeze, soft sands, and an extensive array of beach sports played daily. Bradford Beach boasts one of the highest participations in Volleyball, Soccer, and Frisbee in the United States, and with lifeguards on duty from 11 am to 5 pm on weekdays and 10 am to 5 pm on weekends, it is an ideal spot for families as well!
8. North Beach, Racine, Wisconsin
Another notable inland beach that has gained attention recently is North Beach in Racine. Lifeguards are present from June through September, making this pristine freshwater beach an excellent choice for young families. Spanning 50 acres, there is an abundance of water, sand, and sunshine to accommodate everyone—additionally, thanks to a dedicated local effort, North Beach has been certified as Blue Wave Clean!
9. Clearwater, Florida
Clearwater consistently ranks among the top beaches worldwide, and an initial glance at the scenery reveals the reason for its acclaim. With some of the purest, whitest sands extending into the aquamarine gulf waters, many visitors return time and again, captivated by the “love at first sight” allure of Clearwater. Caladesi Island, located just off the northernmost point of the beach, has received recognition as America’s best beach multiple times. Furthermore, Clearwater itself offers numerous attractions, and those who enjoy marine life should not overlook the Clearwater Marine Aquarium!
10. Provincetown, Massachusetts
The entire Cape Cod area is designated and treated as a National Park. This designation indicates the high level of preservation of the beaches in this region; the second testament is the substantial number of visitors it attracts annually! Whether you are swimming in the tranquil waters of Herring Cove Beach or engaging in Jet Skiing off Town Beach, the Provincetown area offers something enjoyable for every visitor.
