With thirty states across the country having a shoreline on either the ocean or one of the Great Lakes, the United States is a wonderful place for a beach vacation. Whether you want the white sands at swaying palm trees of Hawaii, the extensive views of Washington’s Puget Sound, or a beach right in the heart of an iconic city, it’s all there across the United States. Find about the most beautiful beaches in the US.
In this post, we’ll not only look at six of the most beautiful beaches in the United States, but also why you should visit them. It should help you to decide your next staycation or big vacation to the US!
Coronado Beach, San Diego, California
San Diego is one of the best cities to hit up in the United States, especially if you like the beach. The 8th largest city in the country has 70 miles of shoreline on the Pacific Ocean Located in the south of San Diego, Coronado Beach is on the island of Coronado. As well as the beach, it’s famous for the Hotel del Coronado – a historical masterpiece and the 2nd largest wooden structure in the United States! You can bring your dog here – there is “dog beach” at the north end of Coronado Beach. Make sure to bring the proper water safety gear (leash, FD, etc.) for your pooch.
Why you should visit Coronado Beach
Coronado is popular with families, so it’s great to visit if you’re traveling with little ones. As well as the Hotel Del Coronado, it’s a wonderful spot for stand up paddle boarding. The calm waters here are suitable for beginners and more experienced paddlers could even have a go at SUP yoga!
Clearwater Beach, Florida
Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater Beach is 2.5 miles of pristine white sands and turquoise waters. With great weather and events on every night of the year, you’re sure not to be bored here. If you don’t want to spend the day reclined on a sun lounger, there are lots of outdoor adventures you can enjoy to get the heart racing.
Why you should visit Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach isn’t just a great place to spend the day, it’s a mecca for entertainment too. Pier 360 is open 364 days a year. There are street performers, artisans, and much more – a perfect accompaniment to the stunning Florida sunset. You could also carry on to Caladesi Island State Park when here. The island is easily accessible from Clearwater Beach by private boat, pedestrian ferry, or your own two feet. It’s 3.5 miles away though!
Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
Everyone knows Waikiki Beach. The golden stretch of sand on the Hawaiian island capital is against the stunning backdrop of Diamond Head on one side and the city skyscrapers on the other. Yes, it’s crowded, but there’s a reason for that. After a day swimming, surfing, or chilling on the sand head to the Royal Hawaiian Hotel for a Mai Tai cocktail.
Why you should visit Waikiki Beach
Surfing! One of the world’s most iconic surf beaches, grab a board at one of the rental shops in Honolulu (if you don’t have your own) and catch some waves. If it’s a calm day, consider stand up paddle boarding instead. If SUP is your preferred sport, then head to nearby Ala Moana Beach Park. The outer reef protects you from the swell, giving you perfect flat waters for paddling.
Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
Though North Carolina is rightly famous for the miles of beautiful beaches at the Outer Banks, none of those beaches come close to the stunning Wrightsville Beach. The harbour island has colder waters than what we’ve seen so far – you’ll probably want a wetsuit for any board sports unless it’s the height of summer. Though the town is quaint, there’s an awesome nightlife scene: with beach bars and live music continuing until the early hours.
Why you should visit Wrightsville Beach
Though the nightlife is a lot of fun, the best time to come out in Wrightsville is during the day. That’s because it’s a haven for a number of water sports including kiteboard, SUP, surfing, and kayaking. Want to watch the best in the world at their craft? Head here during the Carolina Cup, one of the biggest paddle boarding races in the country!
Gulf Shores Public Beach, Alabama
Alabama is probably best-known for its history in the Civil Rights Movement and the US Space and Rocket Centre. However, it has some pretty awesome beaches too! Gulf Shores Public Beach is probably the best known – a stretch of white sand with emerald green waters. There’s lots to do, with a big pier and easy access to parking.
Why you should visit Gulf Shores Public Beach
Looking to do water sports in Alabama? You’re in luck. Kayaking and paddle boarding can be enjoyed not only at the beach but also the calm inland waterways between here and Orange Beach. If you’re looking for something to get the adrenaline really going, you can try parasailing too!
Alki Beach, Seattle, Washington
Alki Beach is more than just a beautiful beach. It boasts rich history too. In fact, it’s the first place that white settlers landed in Seattle in 1851. This 2.5km stretch of sand now offers soft sands and cold waters – you’ll need a wetsuit if you’re planning a swim! Visitors can also enjoy volleyball courts, a jogging track, and cycling.
Why you should visit Alki Beach
Though you can sunbathe and swim at Alki Beach, it’s most popular for its fantastic views across the Puget Sound. To get a unique perspective of the sound itself, take a stand up paddle board or kayak out onto the mostly calm waters. After a day out on the water, come back for a sunset dinner at one of many waterfront restaurants.
