19 Best Beaches in United States with Locations and Pics

Regarding coastal escapes, the United States boasts some of the finest beaches in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. From the sun-kissed shores of the East Coast to the rugged beauty of the West Coast, the diversity of landscapes and activities offered by the best beaches in the United States of America ensures there’s something for every beach goer to enjoy. Beginning on the East Coast, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of beaches. Whether it’s the pristine sands of the Outer Banks or the vibrant boardwalks of Florida’s Gulf Coast, the East Coast is home to some of the best beaches in the United States. With warm waters ideal for swimming, surfing, and fishing, these beaches provide endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure.

Venturing to the West Coast, beach enthusiasts will discover a different kind of paradise awaiting them. From the iconic stretches of golden sand in California to the rugged coastlines of Oregon and Washington, the most incredible beaches in the US on the West Coast offer unparalleled natural beauty and breathtaking scenery. Surfers flock to renowned breaks, while families enjoy picnics and beach combing along the Pacific shoreline. Between the East and West Coasts lie the hidden gems of the Gulf Coast, where some of the best beaches in the states are there. With sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters, these beaches offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether it’s lounging beneath swaying palm trees or indulging in fresh seafood cuisine, visitors to the Gulf Coast are treated to an unforgettable beach experience.

In addition to the traditional coastal destinations, the United States is home to various unique beach settings. From the rocky shores of New England to the tropical paradise of Hawaii, the diversity of landscapes ensures that the best beaches in the US cater to all preferences and interests. Whether seeking solitude in a secluded cove or joining the vibrant beach culture of a bustling resort town, beach lovers will find their perfect slice of paradise in the United States. The best beaches in the US offer a diverse and unparalleled beach experience, from the East Coast’s sun-drenched shores to the West Coast’s rugged beauty and everything in between. With endless opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty, these beaches are examples of America’s coastal treasures.

1. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii:

Waikiki Beach, located in Hawaii, is renowned as one of the USA’s best beaches, captivating visitors with its iconic beauty and vibrant atmosphere. Nestled against the backdrop of Diamond Head Crater, this crescent-shaped stretch of golden sand offers postcard-perfect views of the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by luxury resorts and bustling shops, Waikiki Beach exudes a lively energy that entices travelers from around the globe. Whether lounging on the soft sands, taking a refreshing dip in the azure waters, or indulging in water sports like surfing and paddleboarding, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Waikiki Beach is steeped in cultural significance, with historic sites like the Duke Kahanamoku Statue honoring the father of modern surfing. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a romantic haven.

2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina:

Myrtle Beach, Located along the South Carolina coast, is celebrated as one of the best beaches in the United States of America. Stretching for miles along the Grand Strand, this popular destination offers visitors a perfect blend of sun, sand, and sea. With its vast, sandy shores and gentle waves, Myrtle Beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach-side activities. Beyond its natural beauty, Myrtle Beach boasts many entertainment options, including amusement parks, shopping centers, and championship golf courses. Families flock to its lively boardwalk while nature enthusiasts explore nearby state parks and wildlife refuges. With its year-round appeal and Southern hospitality, Myrtle Beach continues to enchant beachgoers seeking an unforgettable seaside retreat in the heart of America.

3. Siesta Key Beach, Florida:

Siesta Key Beach, Florida, is renowned as one of the best beaches in the United States. Thanks to its high quartz content, Siesta Key Beach boasts pristine white sands that are famously soft and cool to the touch. This stunning beach stretches miles along the Gulf of Mexico, providing ample space for sunbathing, picnicking, and beach games. The shallow, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities, while the gentle waves offer opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Siesta Key Beach is also known for its vibrant sunsets, which paint the sky in a stunning array of colors each evening. Visitors can enjoy beachfront dining, live music, and a laid-back atmosphere that captures the essence of Florida’s Gulf Coast lifestyle.

4. Ka’anapali Beach, Hawaii:

Ka’anapali Beach is revered as one of the most beautiful beaches in the US. This picturesque stretch of golden sand, fringed by swaying palm trees and crystal-clear waters, epitomizes tropical paradise. Visitors to Ka’anapali Beach are greeted with breathtaking views of the neighboring islands of Lanai and Molokai, creating a stunning backdrop for sun-soaked days and romantic sunsets. The beach offers a range of activities, from snorkeling and swimming in the calm waters to parasailing and paddle boarding for the more adventurous. One of the highlights of Ka’anapali Beach is the scenic beachfront promenade, where visitors can stroll along the shore, shop for souvenirs, or dine at waterfront restaurants offering fresh seafood and island-inspired cuisine. Ka’anapali Beach promises an unforgettable Hawaiian experience.

5. Coronado Beach, California:

Coronado Beach, located in California, is renowned as one of the greatest beaches in the US. Situated on the picturesque Coronado Island, this pristine stretch of coastline offers visitors a tranquil escape from the city bustle. With its sparkling white sands and gentle waves, Coronado Beach is perfect for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and long walks along the shore. The beach is also known for its iconic backdrop, including the historic Hotel Del Coronado, a Victorian-era masterpiece. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the San Diego skyline while soaking up the California sunshine. Whether enjoying a leisurely day on the sand or watching the sunset, Coronado Beach offers an idyllic coastal experience that epitomizes the beauty of Southern California.

6. Clearwater Beach, Florida:

Clearwater Beach in Florida stands as one of the premier coastal destinations in the United States of America. Renowned for its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, Clear water Beach offers visitors a picture-perfect setting for relaxation and recreation. Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, this beach boasts gentle waves ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The iconic Pier 60 is a focal point of activity, featuring nightly sunset celebrations, street performers, and vendors. Families flock to Clearwater Beach for its family-friendly atmosphere and amenities, including playgrounds, picnic areas, and beachfront restaurants. Whether lounging in the sun, indulging in water sports, or exploring nearby attractions like Clearwater Marine Aquarium, visitors to Clearwater Beach are treated to an unforgettable coastal experience.

7. Cannon Beach, Oregon:

Cannon Beach is renowned for its dramatic scenery and iconic landmarks. Dominating the skyline is the majestic Haystack Rock, a towering sea stack that provides a stunning backdrop for beachgoers. The vast stretch of sandy shoreline invites strolls, beachcombing, and kite flying against the backdrop of crashing waves and breathtaking sunsets. Cannon Beach offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its quaint town center featuring art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. Nature enthusiasts can explore nearby hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, while wildlife lovers may spot seabirds, tide pool creatures, and even migrating whales during certain seasons. Cannon Beach captivates visitors with its natural beauty and laid-back charm, making it a must-visit destination.

8. Hanauma Bay Beach, Hawaii:

Hanauma Bay Beach is a breathtaking marine sanctuary renowned for its vibrant underwater ecosystem and stunning natural beauty. This crescent-shaped bay boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, teeming with colorful coral reefs, making it a paradise for snorkelers. The sheltered bay provides calm waters ideal for swimming and exploring the underwater wonders. Hanauma Bay Beach offers visitors a unique opportunity to encounter tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine species up close in their natural habitat. While the beach is pristine and inviting, the surrounding cliffs and lush hillsides offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the island’s rugged coastline. Hanauma Bay Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.

9. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina:

Hilton Head Island is a premier beach destination known for its pristine sandy shores, world-class golf courses, and upscale resorts. This barrier island offers miles of picturesque beaches where visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and a variety of water sports, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Nature lovers can explore the island’s lush maritime forests and scenic bike trails, while wildlife enthusiasts may spot dolphins, sea turtles, and shorebirds along the coastline. Hilton Head Island also boasts championship golf courses designed by renowned architects, attracting golf enthusiasts. The island features charming shops, fresh seafood restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Coastal Discovery Museum. Hilton Head Island offers a quintessential beach getaway experience for travelers of all ages.

10. Malibu Beach, California:

Malibu Beach is renowned as one of the best beaches in the state. With its iconic stretches of golden sand, dramatic cliffs, and sparkling Pacific Ocean waters, Malibu Beach offers a quintessential California beach experience. Surfers flock to renowned breaks like Surfrider Beach, while sunbathers and beachgoers soak up the sun and enjoy picnics against breathtaking coastal scenery. The beach’s proximity to Los Angeles makes it a popular escape for locals and tourists seeking a relaxing day by the sea or a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. Malibu Beach also boasts upscale waterfront dining options, trendy shops, and celebrity sightings, adding to its allure as a top destination for beach lovers in the United States.

11. Gulf Shores, Alabama:

Gulf Shores is celebrated as one of the best beaches in the United States. Boasting soft, sugar-white sands and clear emerald-green waters, Gulf Shores offers a tranquil and picturesque setting for beachgoers. Families flock to the area for its family-friendly atmosphere, with gentle waves perfect for swimming and building sandcastles. Adventure seekers can indulge in various water sports, including kayaking and parasailing. Nature lovers can explore nearby state parks and wildlife preserves, home to diverse ecosystems and migratory bird populations. Gulf Shores also features a vibrant beachfront scene, lively seafood restaurants, and beach bars. With its blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and southern hospitality, Gulf Shores is a top destination for beach vacations in the United States.

12. Outer Banks, North Carolina:

The Outer Banks, a string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, is renowned for its pristine beaches and laid-back coastal charm. This seaside paradise offers diverse beaches, from secluded and undeveloped stretches to bustling resort towns. Visitors to the Outer Banks can enjoy swimming, surfing, kiteboarding, and fishing in the Atlantic Ocean’s warm waters. The area is also steeped in history, with attractions such as the Wright Brothers National Memorial, where the first powered flight took place in 1903, and the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, one of the most iconic lighthouses in the United States. Nature lovers will appreciate the Outer Banks’ abundant wildlife, including wild horses that roam freely on specific beaches.

13. Laguna Beach, California:

Laguna Beach, situated along the scenic coastline of Southern California, stands as one of the best beaches in the US. With a backdrop of rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters, Laguna Beach offers visitors a picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The area is also famous for its tide pools, where visitors can observe various marine life, including colorful sea anemones and hermit crabs. Art enthusiasts will appreciate Laguna Beach’s thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, studios, and outdoor installations showcasing the work of local artists. The town’s charming downtown area also offers boutique shopping, gourmet dining, and vibrant nightlife. Whether relaxing on the beach or immersing oneself in the local arts and culture, Laguna Beach promises an unforgettable coastal experience.

14. Key West, Florida:

Key West is one of the best beaches in the US, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, historic charm, and breathtaking sunsets. Situated at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys, Key West boasts pristine sandy beaches where visitors can soak up the sun, swim in the turquoise waters, and partake in various water sports, including snorkeling and kayaking. The island’s laid-back vibe and colorful architecture add to its allure, with attractions such as Duval Street’s lively bars and restaurants and the historic Old Town district showcasing its rich maritime heritage. Key West is also a haven for nature lovers, offering opportunities to explore the nearby coral reefs, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, or take a sunset cruise.

15. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts:

Martha’s Vineyard is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and some of the greatest beaches in the US. With over 100 miles of coastline, Martha’s Vineyard offers an array of pristine sandy beaches with unique character and appeal. From the serene shores of South Beach to the family-friendly atmosphere of Inkwell Beach, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing against the backdrop of scenic coastal vistas. The island’s laid-back atmosphere and quaint seaside villages add to its allure with boutique shopping and gourmet dining opportunities. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Martha’s Vineyard’s diverse ecosystems, including coastal dunes and salt marshes. Martha’s Vineyard’s most incredible beaches offer an idyllic retreat for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty.

16. South Beach, Florida:

South Beach, situated in the heart of Miami Beach, Florida, is an iconic and vibrant destination known for its dazzling white sands, Art Deco architecture, and lively atmosphere. Stretching for miles along the Atlantic Ocean, South Beach is a playground for beach lovers, offering opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, beach volleyball, and water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing. The beach is also famous for its colorful lifeguard towers, which have become a symbol of the Miami Beach coastline. Beyond the beach, visitors can explore the bustling Ocean Drive, lined with chic restaurants, trendy boutiques, and bustling cafes. South Beach transforms into a pulsating nightlife hub at night, with world-class clubs, bars, and lounges hosting celebrity sightings and unforgettable parties.

17. Nantucket Island, Massachusetts:

Nantucket Island, located off the coast of Massachusetts, is a charming and picturesque destination known for its timeless beauty, historic architecture, and pristine beaches. This idyllic island offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of mainland life, with miles of sandy shores and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Nantucket’s quaint cobblestone streets are lined with elegant 19th-century homes, boutique shops, and fine dining restaurants, evoking a sense of old-world charm and sophistication. Visitors can explore the island’s rich maritime history at the Whaling Museum or admire the iconic Brant Point Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Nantucket’s unspoiled landscapes, including moors, marshes, and nature reserves teeming with wildlife.

18. Cape Cod, Massachusetts:

Cape Cod is renowned for its stunning coastline and is often hailed as home to some of the best beaches in the US. Stretching for miles along the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod boasts an array of sandy shores that cater to every beachgoer’s preference. From the serene and secluded beaches of the Cape Cod National Seashore to the bustling and family-friendly shores of towns like Chatham, there’s a beach for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can indulge in swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Cape Cod’s charming seaside villages uniquely blend maritime history and quaint shops and galleries. Cape Cod remains a perennial favorite among beach lovers seeking the best coastal experiences.

19. Virginia Beach, Virginia:

Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a vibrant coastal destination offering some of the best beaches in the US. With its expansive shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia Beach attracts visitors with its wide sandy beaches and many recreational activities. Beachgoers can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and surfing in the warm waters of the Atlantic. The three-mile-long boardwalk provides a scenic pathway for strolling, biking, and people-watching while featuring restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Nature enthusiasts can explore nearby state parks, wildlife refuges, and nature preserves, showcasing the region’s diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Additionally, Virginia Beach hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its lively atmosphere and appeal as a top beach destination.