If you’re reading this article, we’re pretty sure there’s no doubt in anyone’s mind as to whether you’re a mountain or a beach person. There’s nothing like the gentle sound of waves, the smell of the sea in the air, and the acts of walking, chilling, surfing, snorkeling, and having an all-round whale of a time. And when you’re spending time on some of the best beaches in the US, there’s nothing in the world that feels quite as glorious.
Unfortunately, life since 2020 has been quite challenging for beach lovers. With the spread of COVID-19, authorities needed to take necessary measures to curb the pandemic and keep people safe – including shutting down access to all the best beaches in the US that revelers love to visit.
The journey back to normalcy from the peak of the pandemic has been immense, to say the least. From a time when millions could only dream of the most beautiful beaches in the US in the confines of their own homes, that dream is finally becoming a reality again with beaches fully reopened and crowds making their way to the most beautiful east coast beaches and west coast beaches. Going to the best beaches in the US is no longer a distant dream, but a reality that we all can’t wait to enjoy once again.
After such a long break from travel for many, one would understandably want their first trip back to the beach to be the most epic yet. Planning this epic trip back to the beach is easier said than done for many, simply because it’s so challenging to figure out where to start. The US is filled with so many types of beaches along its pristine coastlines, from clear water beaches to commercial beaches, white sand beaches, Hawaiian beaches, the best US surf spots, and more. To make matters more challenging, every beach seems more beautiful than the last, since some of the most beautiful beaches in the US are among the best in the world too.
Unless you have a lot of free time and money on your hands to explore both the west coast beaches and the east coast beaches in one mega beach trip, you will ultimately have to decide on one of the best beaches to have your dream beach holiday. And we’re here to help you make that decision.
When we set out to name the 8 best beaches in the US that you must visit, we took multiple viewpoints and preferences into consideration – for example, the list includes some of the most beautiful beaches in the US from an ecological standpoint, or for being simply idyllic, but also those that stand out for the amount of fun that can be had by way of surfing, snorkeling, and other epic beach activities that one can enjoy.
While humanity spent two years keeping travel on the down low, the beaches have also taken this opportunity to reset and go back to the pristine condition they used to be in at their peak. And now, they’re waiting for you to visit. Here are the 8 best beaches in the US for you to get inspired – and hopefully, packing.
1. Hanalei Bay – Kauai, Hawaii
If you’re still on the fence about whether you’re a mountain or a beach person, Hanalei Bay’s beaches offer both. While it is one of Hawaii’s lesser visited islands, it is a hidden gem in every sense of the word. Its two miles of pillowy white sand beach set against scenic mountains makes it one of the best beaches in the US to visit for some peace and quiet that is relatively off the radar. Life beyond the beach is absolutely bustling, with unique cultural activities and offbeat places to visit that make for the experience of a lifetime. Take a swim, lay in the white sand, and let your worries disappear in one of the most beautiful beaches in the US.
2. Coopers Beach – Southampton, New York
Coopers Beach has the distinction of being the first “Gold Coast” beach in the United States, and features miles of white sand. A trip to this beach will also remind one of the desert, with its large sand dunes – which, when set against the contrasting color of lush, green grass and the sight of large mansions dotting the coastline, is truly awe-inspiring. The beach is known for having several options for relaxation, such as umbrella chairs, refreshment counters, beach shacks, and more. Just remember to use public transport to get there, since a parking pass costs upwards of $40 in a move that discourages private vehicles.
3. Martha’s Vineyard – Dukes County, Massachusetts
Martha’s Vineyard is a Massachusetts island in the Atlantic Sea that is situated just 7 miles south of Cape Cod. Just beneath the island’s well known Gay Head cliffs, lies Mashup beach – a pristine paradise made of so many different colors. For instance, the beach is entirely made of white sand, while the scenic view around you features red, brown, and tan colored cliffs that make this beach a marvel to behold. Its rich history as a New England summer colony is riveting, and woven intrinsically into the island’s cultural identity, making this beach holiday a cultural experience that you’ll never forget. Whether you’re roaming around the historic districts of Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs, entering an actual lighthouse for the first time, or shifting from one beach to any of the 19 beaches the island has to offer, a beach holiday on Martha’s Vineyard will cater to exactly what you’re looking for – whether it’s peace and solitude, or a more up tempo holiday combining culture and some of the most beautiful beaches in the US.
4. Cape May – Cape May County, New Jersey
Cape May is situated at the south most point of New Jersey, and is tucked away at the perfect spot for a beach holiday replete with fun activities. Cape May features a number of beaches that may seem a little more touristy than those that preceded it in this list, but strikes the perfect balance between pure fun and relaxation. Relax on one of the many beaches on offer, and take a motorcycle ride down the boardwalk that is set against unforgettable waterfront views, or take a break from the beach life altogether and make a trip to the heart of the Town Center that is filled with patisseries and several interesting looking bed and breakfast options.
5. Lighthouse Beach – Buxton, North Carolina
The Lighthouse Beach is arguably the ultimate surfing destination in the United States Atlantic Coast. On reading about the science behind this, one learns that the island features large offshore sandbanks which are known as “Diamond Shoals” in scientific terminology. These diamond shoals cause wave refraction that channelizes the energy of the waves towards this beach, making it one of the best US surf spots that’s also completely supported by lifeguards. For non-surfers, a walk down the Cape Point will often reveal the existence of a large sand split that extends to some distance from the shore. Walking down this sand split is a surreal experience that feels like the sea has parted for you, with the waves coming up against this narrow stretch of solid sand.
6. Pope Beach – South Lake Tahoe, California
Situated on the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in the United States that is known for its pristine beaches. An alpine lake is one that’s situated at a high altitude – typically above 10,000 feet – which makes it another destination that satisfies the needs of those who love both mountains and beaches. Pope Beach is located on the south shore of Lake Tahoe, and is known for activities like swimming and kayaking. What makes it a truly unforgettable experience with its views of the Nevada mountains, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in the US.
7. Clearwater Beach – Pinellas County, Florida
Clearwater Beach is a geographical marvel, simply owing to the locations surrounding its shores. The beach is situated across 3 miles of the Pinellas Peninsula on the Gulf Coast, with the Gulf of Mexico to the beach’s west and the renowned Tampa Bay to the east. The beach itself is made of white sand, and is bustling with life for those who enjoy physical activities and sports like beach volleyball. You could also rent a fishing boat, go sight some dolphins, relax at a museum, or get your heart racing while parasailing. We think this is one of the best beaches in the US because of its truly spectacular location, and also the fact that it is so full of activities that make it the quintessential fun beach holiday.
8. Kauna’oa Beach – Hawaii Island, Hawaii
If one wishes to experience the version of Hawaii we’ve all seen on postcards and TV, one needs to experience Kauna’oa Beach. The beach is located on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island, and is everything you’ve ever imagined Hawaii to be. It features an abundance of white sand, lined by palm trees that are set against perfectly blue water. The beach has a unique crescent shape, and is loved by all kinds of travelers – from those who want a relaxing holiday, to water sport enthusiasts. That’s why Kauna’oa is a beach that we regard as one of the most beautiful beaches in the US.
