This California Beach Was Just Ranked No. 1 in the Entire U.S.

Planning that next beach trip? You might want to consider the latest ranking of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S. SpinBlitz recently scored hundreds of them across the country to determine the best.

Coming out on top was Carmel Beach in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, which is no surprise. To come up with the most impressive, AI image analysis was used. Both the positive and negative visual characteristics of each beach were considered, such as postcard-worthy views and crowd levels. The beach’s high ranking is no surprise to this writer, having grown up in the area.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is located just south of Monterey on California’s Central Coast. It’s often referred to as a storybook town, with its whimsical cottages inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairytales and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. It also boasts a vibrant art scene, upscale boutiques, wine-tasting rooms, more than 60 eateries, including two Michelin-starred restaurants, the 1797 Carmel Mission Basilica, and of course, picturesque Carmel Beach. 

Carmel Beach is the main beach, located right at the foot of Ocean Avenue. A mile-long stretch of soft, ivory sand, visitors can stroll the scenic path above the bluff that overlooks it, winding through Monterey Cypress trees for a dramatic view. Afterward, descend the steps to the beach to relax, watch the surfers ride the waves, witness a glorious sunset, and then gather one of the fire pits for a cozy evening beneath the stars. 

There are many places to explore nearby, including Point Lobos State Natural Reserve about a 10-minute drive south. There are idyllic beaches tucked into coves, opportunities to swim, hiking trails, and outstanding wildlife watching, from sea otters that float in the kelp to harbor seals and sea lions. You might even see a migrating gray or blue whale in the distance. 

The world-famous 17 Mile Drive is also easily accessible from here. It winds through places like iconic Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove, providing spectacular views throughout. Head just 10 minutes north to Monterey and you can visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the country’s best.

Some of the other beaches that made the list include Sand Beach in Acadia National Park, Maine, and the beaches on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, which are all connected. Rounding out the top five were Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts, and Gold Beach, Oregon.