Planning a beach vacation in the US?
There are so many wonderful beach vacation spots in the US, from lively cities like Miami and San Diego to tropical paradises like Maui and Oahu, that you will be spoiled for choice.
If you are looking to escape to a beach destination for your next vacation, you’re in the right place, because in this article, we’ve rounded up the best US beach spots to consider.
Come summer, the call of the beach can be irresistible, and beach vacations are a beloved summer tradition for many US families.
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But beaches are also popular US spring break destinations, less crowded fall getaways, and welcome sunny escapes in the winter if you are a snowbird.
Whether you are looking for a beach with calm waters for kids to enjoy, or a shore with mighty waves for surfing, or beach spots with other activities to enjoy besides the sun and the sand, we’ve got options for you.
While some of the iconic beach escapes in our round-up can be crowded (understandably!), we have some off-the-beaten track options if you value a degree of seclusion.
Ready to get started? Let’s discover the very BEST beach vacation spots in the USA!
Waikiki, HI
Iconic Waikiki Beach on the Hawaiian island of Oahu is recognized as one of the top beach vacation destinations in the US, and, indeed the world.
The crescent-shaped beach, one of the top destinations in Hawaii, stretches for two miles and features beautiful white sand and aqua waters perfect for many water activities.
Waikiki Beach is actually made up of several sections, and you can stroll, sunbathe, swim, snorkel, surf, or catch a beautiful sunset here.
Plus there are many boat tours that will take you out onto the water, from where you can enjoy great views of the famous Waikiki coastline with its many skyscrapers.
Be sure to take a boat trip to Turtle Canyon, to snorkel with Hawaiian green sea turtles, or take a glass-bottomed boat tour to look for marine life under the water.
On land, you will definitely want to hike to the summit of Diamond Head Crater for superb views over the coast. The crater is one of the major landmarks on Oahu.
Downtown Honolulu features many historic sites, including Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the country. Take a guided walking tour to learn about local history!
Where to Stay
The Sheraton Waikiki is located on the waterfront, with fabulous views of Diamond Head Crater. Enjoy several outdoor pools and comfortable rooms.
Suggested by Sam of Travel Hawaii with Us
San Juan, PR
For pristine beaches combined with centuries of history, plan a beach vacation in San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico! US citizens can visit sans passport.
There are several beaches you can enjoy here, from Escambron Beach in Old San Juan to the beaches of Isla Verde and Condado. Condado is home to numerous resorts.
Condado Lagoon offers kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
Most of the beaches here are blissfully uncrowded on weekdays. Swim at designated places, snorkel, scuba dive, or sunbathe.
You’ll find eateries close to many San Juan beaches. There are parking garages if you wish to drive, or you can take a taxi from your accommodations.
And, if you want to include more beach fun on your Puerto Rico itinerary, you can take an excursion from San Juan to smaller islands such as Culebra, home to the world-famous Playa Flamenco.
Other than beaches, you will find a lot to keep you engaged in San Juan.
Old San Juan offers colorful Colonial architecture, many historic sites (the El Morro fort and the San Cristobal fort here are a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and delicious food and drink.
If you plan a longer stay, add in a day trip to El Yunque, the tropical rainforest near San Juan, or a visit to Ponce, Puerto Rico’s second city.
Suggested by us
Where to Stay
Stay at the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, an oceanfront resort with outdoor pool and lounging terrace, and excellent onsite restaurants.
Kaanapali, HI
The west shore of Maui is strung with beautiful beaches, so it’s no surprise that this Hawaiian island is one of the most popular US beach vacation destinations.
Base in Kaanapali, home to Kaanapali Beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Sunset here is an experience not to be missed, whether you view it from land or on a sunset cruise.
While you can swim or snorkel in the area, you also have access to many more exciting Maui activities, from sailing and surfing to scuba diving and parasailing.
Kaanapali also has several resorts, with convenient access to dining. There’s also a lovely waterfront trail to walk.
Just north of Kaanapali is Black Rock Beach, where you can watch the ceremonial cliff dive at sunset each evening.
South of Kaanapali is the historic town of Lahaina, a popular hub for strolling, shopping and dining. Here you can admire the enormous Lahaina banyan tree!
Lahaina is also home to a harbor from where boat trips depart for whale watching in the winter and snorkeling excursions to Turtle Town and Molokini Crater.
Where to Stay
The Kaanapali waterfront is flush with resorts, and you’ll be spoiled for choice on where to stay. Try the Westin or the Hyatt for a comfortable stay.
Suggested by us
Miami, FL
If you are looking for the best beach vacation destinations in the United States, Miami stands out as a must-visit.
South Beach is the crown jewel of Miami’s beaches, with its white sand, sparkling turquoise waters, and iconic art deco buildings.
Stroll along Ocean Drive, lined with trendy cafes and restaurants, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Although Miami’s beaches are renowned, Miami has a lot more to offer than just beaches.
Visit the vibrant neighborhood of Little Havana to sample Cuban cuisine and Wynwood to admire colorful street art.
Explore Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District, which features beautifully preserved buildings from the 1920s and 1930s.
Tour the Pérez Art Museum Miami, which exhibits contemporary art from around the world.
On a Miami weekend getaway with family, enjoy the calm waters of Crandon Park Beach. Couples will appreciate the romantic atmosphere of Matheson Hammock Park Beach, where you can relax in hammocks overlooking tranquil lagoons.
Head to Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park for a peaceful experience by the ocean. Hike nature trails, climb the historic lighthouse, and have a picnic on the beach.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Miami guarantees an unforgettable beach vacation.
Where to Stay
Consider staying at The Betsy South Beach: this boutique hotel combines timeless elegance with modern luxury, providing a tranquil retreat just steps away from the bustle of South Beach.
Suggested by Lavinia of Continent Hop
Santa Barbara, CA
Santa Barbara is widely considered one of the best beach destinations in the U.S. for its stunning natural beauty, Mediterranean-like climate, and abundance of attractions and activities.
There are a variety of excellent beaches along the Santa Barbara coastline, whether you seek a family-friendly atmosphere, serene seclusion, or thrilling water sports.
Some of the most popular beach options downtown include East Beach, West Beach, and Leadbetter Beach, each offering unique features and amenities such as water-sport gear rentals or volleyball nets.
Head to Arroyo Burro Beach (also known as Hendry’s Beach) if you’re looking for a dog-friendly spot, or Rincon Point for some of the best surf around.
Beyond its pristine beaches, Santa Barbara offers a vibrant and sophisticated coastal ambience.
The city is known for its charming downtown area featuring Spanish-style buildings that hold boutique shops, art galleries, and world-class restaurants.
After your day of fun in the sun at the beach, indulge in gourmet cuisine (try Zaytoon or Jane), explore local vineyards and breweries (make sure to visit the Funk Zone!), or explore one of the many museums or attractions such as the Santa Barbara Mission or Stearns Wharf.
Overall, Santa Barbara’s welcoming and laid-back atmosphere makes it well deserving of its reputation as a top beach destination.
Where to Stay
For an excellent place to stay, try the Kimpton Canary Hotel, with its convenient downtown location and rooftop pool with 360-degree views.
Suggested by Janelle of Make the Trip Matter
Poipu, HI
Poipu Beach, on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, stands out as a true paradise for beach vacations in the United States.
With its pristine beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and wide range of activities for all types of travelers, Poipu offers an unforgettable vacation experience.
Poipu has something to offer everyone, whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway, a family seeking adventure, or a solo traveler searching for tranquility.
Poipu has an array of stunning beaches from which to choose. Poipu Beach Park is one of the top picks, renowned for its pristine white sand, perfect blue waters, and year-round sunny weather.
Poipu Beach offers excellent swimming conditions, a protected area for snorkeling with vibrant marine wildlife, and a chance to spot endangered green sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals.
Another gem is Shipwreck Beach, located on the eastern edge of Poipu. This beach is a surfer’s paradise, with powerful waves and breathtaking coastal views.
While the conditions may be less suitable for swimming in the winter, the rugged beauty of Shipwreck Beach makes it a must-visit spot for beach enthusiasts in the summer.
For those seeking adventure, exploring the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail is a must. This scenic trail winds along the coastline, with gorgeous views of dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches.
If you’re a food lover, visit Tidepools, one of the top restaurants in Kauai, nestled within the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. This unique dining experience combines delicious Pacific Rim cuisine with a romantic setting.
Where to Stay
The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa is an excellent choice for a luxurious stay in Poipu.
This resort offers breathtaking ocean views, elegant accommodations, and many amenities, including multiple pools, a spa, and several dining options.
Another top pick is the Koa Kea Hotel and Resort, an intimate boutique hotel on Poipu Beach.
With its chic and modern design, this oceanfront retreat offers a serene atmosphere and an unparalleled beachfront experience.
Suggested by Trysta of This Travel Dream
Hilton Head Island, SC
If you’re looking for a great place for a family-friendly beach vacation, try Hilton Head Island in the South Carolina Lowcountry.
The island is known for its 12+ miles of sandy beaches, hundreds of miles of bike trails, and more than enough outdoor activities to fill a weeklong vacation.
Coligny Beach is the most well-known beach on the island. It’s loaded with amenities that make it easy for day-trippers to enjoy a day on the water.
The public parking at Coligny Beach is currently free, and the beach access area includes plenty of outdoor showers, private changing stations, and restrooms.
Umbrellas and beach chairs are available for rent at Coligny, and the area is monitored by lifeguards from May to September.
There are numerous restaurants, bars, and shops within easy walking distance.
For those who prefer something a little more low-key, try visiting the quiet Islander’s Beach access point on the north end of the island.
It has all the same amenities as Coligny Beach, but the area is surrounded by wilderness instead of restaurants and shops.
It’s quite common to spot deer and bunnies snacking on beach grass in the early morning hours or as the sun is setting!
The most popular activities in Hilton Head are the sunset dolphin cruises, the Vanishing Island cruise, and a fun pirate adventure where kids can shoot water cannons at “Stinky Pete” the pirate.
Adults can choose from biking, golfing on one of the island’s 20+ golf courses, or a Gullah history tour.
Where to Stay
Sea Pines is the most popular area to stay. It’s where you’ll find the famous Harbour Town Lighthouse, which is the most recognizable symbol of the island. There are numerous short-term rentals in the area.
Alternatively, Sonesta Resort is a good beachfront option located mid-point on the island.
Suggested by Erin of Savannah First-Timer’s Guide
San Diego, CA
Easily one of the most popular destinations for a beach getaway is beautiful San Diego!
The iconic city is easy to navigate and offers gorgeous beaches perfect for every type of traveler!
One beach in the area that everyone can appreciate is La Jolla Shores. Known for its smaller waves, it’s the perfect spot to go boogie boarding or begin your surfing journey.
Another must-visit San Diego beach is Mission Beach. Here, you’ll find plenty of vibrant restaurants, amusement rides at nearby Belmont Park, and a lovely little pathway to stroll.
Take the ferry to Coronado Island, where Coronado Beach features gorgeous silver sand. Have a drink at the historic Hotel del Coronado, a National Historic Landmark, and take in the views of the city skyline.
Other than spending time at the beach, go hiking or tidepooling at Cabrillo National Monument, or take your pick of the gardens and museums in Balboa Park in downtown San Diego.
Enjoy a cruise of the San Diego Harbor in the evening, and dine or enjoy the nightlife in popular neighborhoods like the Gaslamp Quarter or Little Italy.
Where to Stay
And, for places to stay, consider La Valencia Hotel. This hotel is located close to La Jolla Cove and offers guests scenic views of the ocean.
Or stay at the hip Moxy San Diego Downtown in the Gaslamp Quarter to be in the heart of the action.
Suggested by Kristin of Global Travel Escapades
Key West, FL
Key West, located at the southernmost point of the Florida Keys, is one of the most popular destinations to visit in Florida.
Key West is known for its vibrant colors, celebrations, turquoise beaches, and culture.
Even if you are just visiting Key West for a few days, you can’t miss its famous attractions like the Ernest Hemingway Home Museum, the Southernmost Point of United States marker, and sunset celebrations at Mallory Square.
Yes, Key West is famous for its nightly sunset celebrations!
Your Key West itinerary is incomplete without hitting the beautiful beaches here.
Take in the sunrise at Smather’s Beach and indulge in water sports activities.
You can also visit Higgs Beach and Fort Zachary State Park, which offers pristine beaches with fewer crowds.
At the end of the day, take a sunset sailing cruise, or enjoy the celebrations at Duval Street.
If you have more time, take a day trip to the unique Dry Tortugas National Park, where turquoise blue waters surround Fort Jefferson!
Also, the road trip from Miami to Key West is beautiful, covering the 7-mile Overseas Bridge, Islamorada, and Bahia Honda State Park. At Bahia Honda State Park, you can swim at Caribbean-like beaches.
Key West is famous for its key lime pie, so don’t miss eating the famous sweet treat at Kermit’s Key Lime Pie!
Where to Stay
Stay at the Reach Key West by Hilton, set on the only private natural sand beach in Key West!
Suggested by Mayuri of Fernweh Rahee
Panama City, Fl
Panama City is one of the best beach vacation destinations in the US. The gorgeous sandy beaches and beautiful blue-green water you’ll find here are tough to match.
With beautiful landscapes and activities for all ages, Panama City is a wonderful option for both family vacations and couples’ getaways.
Panama City is known for being a beach paradise all year round. This is a great city to enjoy some time on the water kayaking, paddle boarding, or sailing, among many other activities.
Panama City Beach is a great place to enjoy the beach and play in the water. It’s a popular spot, though!
Travelers looking for a quieter experience should consider visiting St. Andrews State Park. This park has amazing beaches that offer optimal waters for both snorkeling and fishing!
Shell Island is another beautiful beach in the area to consider.
For families looking for a break from the beach, Goofy Golf and Swampy Jacks are great entertainment centers for kids. Couples might enjoy a rejuvenating visit to one of the area spas.
Where to Stay
The Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach is an amazing place to stay in Panama City, especially for those traveling as a family. The hotel has an elaborate pool complex and private beach access.
Designed to make your stay as convenient as possible, the property boasts different room configurations, some even with bunk beds, to ensure you have a great staying experience.
Suggested by Candice of Exploring the Gulf
Cannon Beach, Or
Cannon Beach is arguably the most iconic place along the famed Oregon Coastline, thanks to its seastack, Haystack Rock, that towers 235 feet over the beach.
Given that there are tons of activities to enjoy, from exploring microbreweries to tidepools, Cannon Beach would be an excellent destination, regardless of what kind of traveler you are.
The town of Cannon Beach is charming, with a small yet bustling downtown of coastal cottages, housing ice cream parlors and salt water taffy stores.
The downtown area is right along the wide, sandy shores of Cannon Beach itself.
You could spend days enjoying the activities on the beach, like watching the puffins that nest atop Haystack Rock, viewing the sea life that live within its tidepools, or even taking a surfing lesson.
You can also access some other awesome beaches in the nearby Ecola State Park.
In addition to offering some of the best hikes near Cannon Beach, the park is also home to Indian Beach, which is so beautiful, it was used as a filming location in the Twilight movies, or Crescent Beach, which is so secluded, you’ll likely have it all to yourself!
Where to Stay
While you’re in town, book a stay at the upscale, yet cozy Hallmark Resort and Spa. It directly overlooks Haystack Rock and has lots of thoughtful perks, like warm cookies at check-in.
Suggested by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler
Catalina Island, CA
Catalina Island is a small island just off the coast of Los Angeles where people use golf carts instead of cars to get around.
The island is a must-visit destination for beach lovers seeking a serene and picturesque getaway.
And although you could just plan a day trip to Catalina Island, with its crystal-clear waters, nice sandy beaches, and laid-back island vibe, Catalina Island is also a great beach vacation destination.
One of the most popular beaches on the island is Descanso. This crescent-shaped beach offers a perfect beach day, with its soft white sand and clear turquoise waters.
Relax on the beach, soak up the sun, or go snorkeling, kayaking, or standup paddleboarding.
Visit Descanso Beach Club for lunch or a refreshing drink with your feet in the sand. Plus you can rent private cabanas and chaise lounges here.
A different beach worth visiting is Lover’s Cove, known for its abundant marine life and excellent snorkeling.
With the vibrant underwater ecosystem here, snorkelers can explore colorful coral reefs, swim alongside schools of fish, and maybe even catch a glimpse of playful sea lions.
Lover’s Cove is a designated marine preserve, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty.
Beyond the beaches, Catalina Island offers a variety of other activities for a perfect vacation.
Rent a golf cart to drive around the island, explore the underwater world in a semi-submarine, or just walk around the cute town of Avalon.
If you’re looking for an island vibe for your next beach vacation, then Catalina Island is a great choice!
Do make sure to book the ferry to the island and your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season.
Where to Stay
As for accommodation, for a mid-range stay, Hotel Atwater offers elegant rooms, combining modern amenities with a historic ambiance.
It is located just steps away from the beach and in the heart of lively Avalon.
For a more luxurious experience, Hotel Metropole offers seriously luxe accommodations with stunning ocean views.
Suggested by Sanne of Spend Life Traveling
Titusville, FL
One of the best places to visit for beach vacations in the USA is Titusville, Florida.
Titusville has great beaches on Canaveral National Seashore. The seashore stretches for 24 miles and is all undeveloped, meaning no condos, shops, or restaurants. Playalinda Beach is one of the local favorites.
From downtown Titusville, getting to Playalinda Beach is easy and only takes about 25 minutes by car.
If you have an America The Beautiful National Park Pass, it does include entrance to the Canaveral National Seashore. Don’t have a pass?
Get one online at REI!
One thing to keep in mind is that there are no showers or concession stands at the beach. You should plan on bringing water, snacks, and anything else you think you might need. There are restrooms in each parking area.
Along with beaches, there are many other fun things to do in Titusville, including the Kennedy Space Center, interesting museums, and parks.
To eat, we recommend Pier 220. They have great seafood and views of the intracoastal waterway.
Where to Stay
Stay at the Fairfield by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Center, with its comfortable rooms, onsite restaurants, and outdoor pool.
Or consider the highly-rated TownePlace Suites by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Center which come with kitchens. The hotel has an outdoor pool.
Suggested by Vicky of Buddy the Traveling Monkey
Arecibo, PR
The beaches on the north coast of Puerto Rico near Arecibo are perfect for a holiday with family or friends.
The mild weather of Puerto Rico makes these beaches a year round destination.
Families or couples can enjoy the waves of the Atlantic Ocean and spread out for feasting and tanning on the beaches.
Most of the Arecibo beaches are about an hour’s drive from San Juan, the capital city and largest airport.
The most popular beach in Arecibo is La Poza del Obispo. Swimmers love the natural pool, protected from the ocean waves by a ridge of limestone rocks.
The spray of water created when huge waves crash over the rocks is an amazing scene.
The fine sand beach stretches for miles to the east and is bordered on the west by the Arecibo Lighthouse.
The Arecibo Lighthouse and Historical Park is a cultural theme park with attractions to interest the whole family.
Playa Caza y Pesca is a beach east of La Poza, with a big free parking lot for visitors. It is the perfect beach for boogie boarding and surfing in the breaking waves. It’s fun to watch accomplished surfers as you enjoy sunning on the spacious beach.
Finally, don’t miss La Cueva del Indio, a marine reserve and archeological site near Arecibo.
Hiking along the beaches and arches here is one of the best outdoor adventures near Arecibo.
Where to Stay
The Ventana al Atlantico Boutique Hotel is located minutes from the beaches and La Cueva del Indio so it is a very convenient place to stay.
Suggested by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler
Waikoloa Beach, HI
Waikoloa on the Big Island of Hawaii is a popular destination for a beach vacation.
Stretching for 0.25 mile, Waikoloa Beach is one of the few white sand beaches on the island and offers a myriad of activities water sports, day cruises, helicopter rides, catching sunset, golf, petroglyphs, shopping, and the famous Lava Lava Beach Club restaurant.
Water activities include paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling, catamaran sailing, and whale watching.
Lava Lava Beach Club is a pilgrimage restaurant for many visitors, who covet the tables set beneath the palm trees where you can dine with your toes literally in the sand and views of a tropical sunset.
Queens’ Marketplace and Kings’ Shops are outdoor mall complexes that fulfill your shopping needs with fine art, boutique fashion, souvenir items, bowls of gaudy shave ice, and plenty of restaurants.
The Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve is a rocky field filled with ancient carvings with mysterious meanings. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is lower in the sky, casting shadows for you to spot them easier.
If you aren’t staying at the Hilton Waikoloa Village, at least stop in to experience the mini-theme park. Ride the tram or canal boat, watch or participate in the Dolphin Discovery excursion, walk behind a waterfall, and get a daypass to have access to their pools and cabanas.
They also have an extensive museum with more than 1,800 pieces from Asian, Western, and Oceanic cultures.
Other white sand beaches to visit nearby are Hapuna Beach, Beach 69, and Kua Bay Beach.
Where to Stay
The Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa is a fabulous place to stay and is the only hotel directly on Waikoloa Beach.
Suggested by Tabitha of Travel Compositions
Clearwater Beach, FL
Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater Beach has soft white sandy beaches, beautiful blue water, and plenty of activities for those who don’t just want to relax on the beach.
Clearwater Beach is great for families, friends, and couples. The beach has a large variety of restaurants, shops, hotels, and activities so that every type of traveler is able to enjoy their visit.
Head to the marina to find boat tours and fishing charters. A popular option for kids is Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise, which includes kid-friendly entertainment.
Other boat tour options include dolphin spotting tours, sunset cruises, and dinner cruises.
Across the road from the marina is Pier 60, which is the center of Clearwater Beach. There is a playground at Pier 60 and large inflatable slides.
Every night at sunset, Pier 60 has a celebration with a market and street performers.
Clearwater Beach is known for its stunning sunsets, and locals as well as visitors toast the sun from boats, bars, and restaurants as it sets each night.
The fun doesn’t stop after the sun goes down! All ages can find something enjoyable to do at night on Clearwater Beach, from miniature golf to live music and theatre.
Where to Stay
For those who wish to stay directly on the beach, Sandpearl Resort offers a spa, kids club, and multiple restaurants.
At Tate’s Island Grill by the pool at the hotel, you can watch the sunset while enjoying dinner and drinks right by the sand.
Suggested by Lanie of Make More Adventures
Cape Cod, MA
Cape Cod is a unique peninsula that offers over 500 miles of coastline and some of the best beaches on the east coast.
“The Cape” as many New Englanders refer to it, has a classic New England feel and tons of activities to enjoy all summer long. It makes for a perfect destination for families and couples.
Cape Cod offers such a variety of beaches that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The bay side beaches, such as Mayflower Beach, offer calm waters and opportunities to explore for miles during low tide.
On the other side of the peninsula are the sound beaches, such as West Dennis Beach. Here you can expect calm waters that are a bit warmer and small waves.
Moving further up the coast, you can find beaches along the Cape Cod National Seashore.
These Atlantic Ocean beaches will bring large waves and cold water, perfect for the more adventurous beachgoer that loves to boogie board and jump through the waves crashing onto the beach.
When you are ready to take a break from the beach, Cape Cod has so many other activities to enjoy.
Visitors who have a more adventurous side will love the many hikes, bike riding on the 25-mile-long rail trail, or kayaking through the kettle ponds and swamps.
Those looking to explore even more of the ocean will love the many boat tours and whale watching tours.
Regardless of your beach style, there truly is something for everyone on Cape Cod.
Where to Stay
With 15 unique Cape Cod towns from which to choose, finding a place to stay can be confusing.
First-timers may want to consider the Chatham Bars Inn in Chatham or the Ocean Edge Resort in Brewster, to get a nice feel for everything there is to explore.
Suggested by Julie of Family Trips and Travels
Lincoln City, OR
Lincoln City is a quintessential Oregon Coast vacation destination, with something for everyone.
Although Oregon’s sea waters are quite cold to enjoy without a wetsuit, Lincoln City has plenty more to enjoy even if you’re not ready to brave a swim.
Rugged scenery, coastal hikes, shopping, and seafood are among the top attractions for visitors.
Two of the most loved hikes in Lincoln City are Cascade Head and God’s Thumb, both known for the area’s best coastal viewpoints.
In the right season, bring binoculars and you might spot some whales, too!
For a more leisurely stroll, head to Salishan Resort and Siletz Bay to enjoy the coastline along a short, flat trail from the Salishan shopping center.
The beaches in Lincoln City are mostly flat and sandy, perfect for walks. Find seashells, sea anemones, starfish, and other intriguing marine life in the tide pools. Or watch skilled surfers at Nelscott Cove if conditions allow.
Beyond the beach, Lincoln City offers both trendy and kitschy shops as well as art galleries and outlet malls.
Shop for kites, souvenirs, and artwork like the masterpieces at the Glass Art Studio.
Where to Stay
For a comfortable stay with easy beach access, consider the suites and studios at the Looking Glass Inn, conveniently located next to Mo’s, a seafood restaurant that’s another must-visit in Lincoln City.
Suggested by Michelle of IntentionalTravelers.com
Ocean City, NJ
Ocean City, New Jersey is a wonderful beach destination in the USA, especially for families.
In fact, it has the nickname “America’s Greatest Family Resort” because of its emphasis on family and kid-friendly activities.
The 2.5-mile boardwalk is one of Ocean City’s best attractions. Here you can find dozens of souvenir and apparel shops, toy stores, restaurants, ice cream stands, arcades, mini golf courses, amusement parks, and more.
You can also rent bikes or a surrey to ride on the boardwalk for a fun morning adventure.
The boardwalk stretches along Ocean City Beach, which is really a series of beaches that span eight miles on the Jersey shore.
The beaches are incredibly clean, with soft sand and good-sized waves that are perfect for boogie boarding.
Beach tags are required to access Ocean City Beach, but they can easily be purchased at the Music Pier on the boardwalk or other locations around the city. Some accommodations also come with complimentary tags.
Since Ocean City is an island, there is also a bay side with calmer water where you can rent jet skis, kayaks or SUPs.
Where to Stay
This beach house in Ocean City is great for large groups, while an apartment at Ebb Tide Suites is perfect for small families.
Suggested by Amanda of My Vintage Map
Mackinac Island, Mi
Looking for one of the best beach vacations in the USA? If so, then you can’t beat Mackinac Island in Michigan.
Not only is this gorgeous island one of the best beach towns in Michigan but it is a place island filled with tons of Victorian homes.
Horse-drawn carriages also roll through the streets, since this is a totally car-free island.
Once you’ve arrived here on the ferry from the mainland, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.
Enjoy exploring all of the rocky beaches that sit along the perimeter of the islands. They make perfect spots for relaxing as you gaze out onto the crystal blue water of Lake Huron.
Relax in an Adirondack chair on the green lawn near the beach in front of the Mission Point Resort and look out onto Round Island Lighthouse.
Next, take the kids to skip stones at the beach at Windermere Point, since this island is an ideal vacation destination for couples and families alike.
Additionally, be sure to visit the Butterfly Conservatory, Fort Mackinac, and Arch Rock in Mackinac Island State Park.
Where to Stay
Stay at the Island House Hotel, a historic hotel with a garden and an onsite restaurant.
Suggested by Linda of Midwest Explored
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Fort Lauderdale is one of the best beach vacations in the USA for more than one reason.
Not only is it easy to access with not one, but two major airports within a short distance, but it also hosts beach-worthy weather year-round, making it the perfect beach destination any time of year.
Its clear water sandy beaches will have you happy you chose Fort Lauderdale for your vacation, especially if you are looking for more of a party vibe.
There are plenty of great bars and restaurants all along the beach, making it perfect for couples, friends, or anyone that enjoys doing more than just sitting on a beach.
Fort Lauderdale always has something going on, whether it be volleyball, festivals, spring break, afternoon parties, or more. You will not be bored here.
When you need a break from the sun, head across the street and check out the multi-mega-million dollar yachts in Bahia Mar Marina. Maybe you will even be lucky enough to visit during the boat show that happens at the end of October.
Where to Stay
Be sure to stay down in the main area of the beach or on Las Olas Boulevard if you want to be in the mix of it all.
The Lago Mar Beach Resort is right on the beach and also has some killer pools when you are tired of the salty water.
Suggested by Megan at Floridawanderers.com
Chincoteague Island, VA
One of the best beach vacations in the USA is on Chincoteague Island in Virginia. It’s a hidden gem for beach-goers looking to save money and avoid crowds, with plenty of things to do for families or couples.
The unsullied beaches of Chincoteague Island are a beautiful place to soak in the sun, dig for clams, or cast a fishing line.
Be sure to be at the right section of the beach for these activities, otherwise you might catch a swimmer on your line!
If you’ve gotten enough sun, don’t worry, there are plenty of things to do in Chincoteague that aren’t the beach.
For starters, you can visit the local celebrities, the Chincoteague ponies. They’ve been on the island for centuries and you can see them roaming around in their natural habitat for free!
In July, there’s even an annual pony swim to raise funds for their care. It’s a local festival you won’t want to miss.
You can also visit the NASA Wallops Visitor Center and learn about rockets and space exploration. Check their calendar of events to find out the date of the next launch.
The Chincoteague Wildlife Refuge is the perfect place to bike, hike, or just go bird watching.
For a birds eye view of the area, climb to the top of Assateague Lighthouse.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to stay, check out the Atlantic Shores Inn and Suites.
It’s in the heart of Chincoteague and walking distance from Island Creamery, which is famous for its homemade ice cream.
Suggested by Pamela of The Directionally Challenged Traveler
Siesta Key, FL
If you’re looking for the best beach vacations in the US, look no further than Siesta Key, Florida!
With some of the softest sand in Florida – and the rest of the US – Siesta Key Beach is truly like walking on flour.
This fun beach town hasn’t been overrun by large hotel chains yet, either.
The charming Siesta Key Village is perfect for families, couples or even a friends’ trip!
Siesta Key Beach is the main beach in the area. It’s completely ADA accessible and has plenty of amenities like restrooms and showers, multiple food options, a playground, sand volleyball pits and plenty of parking.
Nearby is Crescent Beach, which is a lovely beach but a bit smaller. It’s not as well-known and can also be less crowded.
Turtle Beach is further south from the main beaches, has rougher sand, and is far less crowded.
There are plenty of things to do in Siesta Key beyond beaches as well.
Try mangrove kayaking in the nearby Ted Sperling Park and Nature Preserve. Rent bikes around the village and beaches or try parasailing or kiteboarding for more adventure.
Be sure to pack ocean-friendly mineral sunblock and wear a sun hat or rash guard to protect your skin from the sun – it’s powerful here!
Where to Stay
Local hotels or vacation properties are the only way to stay on Siesta Key. Try the Inn on Siesta Key for accommodations of various sizes.
Suggested by Nikki of She Saves She Travels
Emerald Isle, NC
Emerald Isle in North Carolina is one of the best family beaches on the east coast!
Situated near Cape Lookout, Emerald Isle is one of few due south facing beaches, making for perfect sunsets that can be seen from either side of the island depending on the time of year.
There are over 21 miles of beautiful sandy beach here, perfect for long walks on the beach and shell combing.
There are also no high rise hotels on the island, which helps to keep the small beach town a quaint area to visit. It also means that the beach doesn’t get too crowded since there is so much space for families to spread out!
In addition, Emerald Isle is a barrier island, which means that it has beautiful sound access, perfect for kayaking or boating in the marsh land.
While your days will probably be filled with sun, sea, and sand on the beach, there are so many other fun things to explore in the area!
Emerald Isle has a beautiful pier, mini-golf, and a waterpark for visiting families.
You can also visit the nearby town of Beaufort to learn about the pirate history of the area, visit the wild horses on Shackleford Island, or take a boat to Cape Lookout National Seashore to see one of the famous lighthouses of North Carolina.
There are numerous waterfront restaurants and some local breweries you’ll want to check out on your visit.
Where to Stay
While many families choose to rent beach houses through companies like Emerald Isle Realty, there are also some smaller hotels like The Islander, located right on the beach in Emerald Isle.
Suggested by Ashton of It’s AAAllgood
MORE INSPIRATION FOR TRAVELS IN THE USA
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