The Official Guide to Best Beaches in the US

With the United States boasting over 95,000 miles of coastline, it’s not easy to choose the best beach for your getaway. The good news is that the team at Beach.com has explored most of it, allowing us to showcase what we feel are the top picks. Whether you simply want to wile away the afternoon on a beach towel with a good book or enjoy a day of activities, you’re sure to find the perfect stretch among our list of the country’s best beaches.

Maui offers many beautiful beaches, but they tend to be small and often packed with people. Makena Beach—also known as Big Beach or Oneloa in Hawaiian—is an exception. Located just over four miles south of the Wailea resort area, it boasts pale golden sands lapped by aquamarine waves and plenty of room for all kinds of beachgoers, from families to couples seeking a romantic stroll. The beach stretches two-thirds of a mile and is up to 100 feet wide in some spots. If it does get crowded, you can take the trail at the north end over a rocky outcrop to Little Beach, a more secluded cove that’s especially popular with nudists.

Makena is ideal for sunbathing, beach walks and boogie boarding. Swimming is best at the northern end, where the waters tend to be calmer. While there are lifeguards on duty, the waves can be powerful and the currents strong, so it’s not recommended for inexperienced swimmers. Restrooms and picnic tables are available on-site. You’ll often find food trucks in the parking lot or just outside the park, but it’s still a good idea to bring your own supplies—just in case.

Venice Beach is the quintessential Southern California beach, stretching nearly three miles along the coast with soft sands framed by swaying palm trees. Lifeguards are on duty, and you’ll have access to everything you might need, including outdoor showers for rinsing off and public restrooms. The Venice Beach Boardwalk runs parallel to the shore for two lively miles, lined with everything from t-shirt shops and tattoo parlors to weed dispensaries, snack stands and restaurants.

The real highlight here is the people-watching. From bodybuilders pumping iron at the iconic Muscle Beach to skateboarders showing off tricks at the skate park where pros like Tony Hawk got their start, there’s always something to see. Artists, jugglers and street performers of all kinds compete for the attention of locals and visitors from around the world.

Widely regarded as the best beach in Florida, Siesta often tops lists of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S., and even the world. It’s made up nearly entirely of crushed quartz which means the white, powder sugar-like sands sparkle in the sun. Stunningly contrasted by the clear turquoise waters of the Gulf, it’s an awe-inspiring vision. Over three miles long, there’s plenty of room for fun and relaxation. It offers a safe environment for swimming with lifeguards stationed at four different locations, while snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing and fishing are just a few of the other possible activities. Plus, you can watch for dolphins that like to play in the surf. 

Siesta is a great beach for families with kids although just about everyone will enjoy it. There are picnic tables, shaded playgrounds, public restrooms, equipment rentals and a shop with stylish apparel. At the Sun Deck and Sand Pavillion you can enjoy refreshing drinks, including cold beer and frozen beverages, along with sandwiches, salads and snacks. 

Part of Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach in Malibu, El Matador is one of its three beaches, tucked beneath craggy bluffs. Ascend the stairs just off the Pacific Coast Highway to the soft sands and you’ll be treated to a visual feast. Sea stacks extend from the edge of the cliffs, some hiding unique arches and caves that make for idyllic photo ops. Tide pools dot the area, home to marine life like colorful starfish and anemones. The rocks and potentially dangerous riptides make this area generally a no-go for swimming, but some visitors do enjoy boogie boarding and body surfing. A lifeguard is on duty on weekends during the peak seasons.

Most visit El Matador for tranquil strolls, tide-pooling, photography, sunbathing and the dramatic sunsets.  When the sun starts to go down, it illuminates the rocks with a beautiful golden glow. There are no restaurants, food stands, showers, or bathrooms, but you will find a porta-potty in the parking lot. 

Santa Cruz draws surfers from around the world to ride the waves at top spots like Steamer Lane and Pleasure Point, but Santa Cruz Main Beach offers something for everyone. It’s backed by the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk which offers a variety of shops, eateries, carnival games and rides, including roller coasters. Many come to stake out a spot for sunbathing and picnics before or after enjoying the amusements there. The waves are typically calmer making it a popular beach for body surfing, boogie boarding and swimming. Plus lifeguards are on duty during the summer months and you’ll find plenty of public restrooms.

While it’s not a beach for quiet contemplation, no list of the best beaches in the USA would be complete without Waikiki. One of the world’s most famous beaches, it’s family-friendly and caters to outdoor adventurers. Enjoy all the quintessential beach activities from paddleboarding to outrigger canoeing and surfing with lessons and gear rentals available. Made up of eight different but consecutive beaches, there are lifeguard stations at all but Gray’s Beach (Halekulani). You’ll find BBQ grills and picnic tables at Fort DuRussy, San Souci, and Kapiolani Park beaches. 

The dining and drinking options are nearly endless, from casual concession stands at Queens Beach to fine dining restaurants at the beachfront hotels. Nearly every section has outdoor showers and public restrooms. 

Set along the northern Oregon coast, Cannon Beach is one of the most stunning stretches of coastline in the country. Roughly four miles long, it runs along nearly the entire length of the town, with iconic Haystack Rock rising 235 feet from the waves just offshore. At low tide, you can walk out to its base and explore tide pools. Sea lions and seals are spotted year-round, and if you visit between April and August, you might catch a glimpse of tufted puffins. Humpback and gray whales also migrate along the coast during spring and winter.

Cannon Beach usually isn’t ideal for swimming, as the waves can be strong, but there are lifeguards on duty during summer months. Public restrooms are available, and the town’s shops and eateries are just a short stroll from the shore.

Located on the northern Washington coast, Shi Shi Beach lies within Olympic National Park, but the trailhead that provides access is part of the Makah Indian Reservation. That means you’ll need permits for both the national park and the reservation—but it’s worth the cost. A little over a three-mile trek brings you to one of the most breathtaking beaches in the country. This wild, unspoiled stretch of coastline is known for its Point of Arches, where arches, sea stacks and tide pools are revealed at low tide.

Shi Shi isn’t the place to swim, but it’s perfect for filling your Instagram feed and spotting wildlife. Whales can sometimes be seen in the distance, and you might catch a glimpse of bald eagles or even bears. The sunsets are unforgettable, and if you decide to camp—there are sites both on the beach and in the forest—you’ll be treated to incredible stargazing too.

Padre Island National Seashore offers about 66 miles of undeveloped beaches. As the world’s largest undeveloped barrier island, it’s nothing like South Padre Island, which is known for its spring break party crowds. There are no roads here—just white sands, beautiful shells, grassy dunes and tidal flats. It’s ideal for families and beach lovers of all kinds looking for a more tranquil experience and outdoor activities. Fishing, paddling and boating are all possible. Wildlife enthusiasts can keep an eye out for some 360 bird species and sea turtles like the endangered Kemp’s ridley. You can also witness sea turtle hatchling releases, typically held in the early morning hours from mid-June through August on Malaquite Beach.

This isn’t a great place to swim, as there are no lifeguards, the currents are strong and sudden drop-offs make it hazardous. However, you will find outdoor rinse-off showers and public restrooms at the Malaquite Visitor Center, along with campgrounds and a park store. There are no dining venues or hotels within the entire Padre Island National Seashore.

One of Florida’s most famous beaches, South Beach sits just east of downtown, where aquamarine waters lap at its sumptuous white sands. Lined with candy-colored lifeguard towers that echo the pastel facades of the Art Deco Historic District, it’s like stepping into a postcard. Sunbathe, swim or simply soak up the atmosphere. This is a place to see and be seen—the quintessential beach for the young, wealthy and famous.

You’ll find all the facilities you need, including public restrooms and outdoor showers. Kiosks offer lounge chair and umbrella rentals, though many hotels provide them for free if you’re a guest. And of course, the trendy beach clubs and bars serve up the ultimate party experience with creative cocktails, beachside bites and stunning views.

Folly Island is a beach lover’s paradise, with six miles of wide beaches just minutes from downtown Charleston. All are worth a visit, but Folly Beach County Park at the west end is arguably the best. Particularly ideal for families looking to enjoy a full day of fun in the sun, it offers 2,500 feet of oceanfront with picnic areas, changing rooms, restrooms, a seasonal snack bar and spots for boogie boarding. During the summer, you can rent boogie boards, beach chairs and umbrellas on-site. Kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing excursions are also available, complete with expert guides and all the gear you need.

Stretching across several barrier islands, the Cape Lookout National Seashore offers 56 miles of beautiful beach and is renowned for its unspoiled beauty. It’s ideal for couples and families alike, providing opportunities to relax or enjoy more adventurous activities. While there are no lifeguards, swimming is allowed as long as there isn’t a rip current advisory in effect (these are posted at park visitor centers).

Two of the best spots for swimming and sunbathing are Shackleford Banks and the area around the 163-foot-tall Cape Lookout Lighthouse, where you can also climb to the top and tour the Keeper’s Quarters Museum. The Light Station Visitor Center stocks bottled water and snacks, but there are no grocery stores or restaurants nearby, so be sure to bring your own supplies.

Virginia Beach stretches for 28 miles, earning a Guinness World Record as the longest beach. It’s a popular spot for everyone from families to partygoers and students, with a boardwalk running alongside the sand that features casual dining and a variety of entertainment options. Lifeguards patrol the beach from mid-May through mid-September to ensure safe swimming.

Surfing, paddleboarding and kayaking are all available, with lessons, tours and gear rentals offered on-site. You’ll also find plenty of beachfront and waterfront dining options, as well as public showers, restrooms and changing areas.

There are nearly endless beaches to choose from on Cape Cod, but Coast Guard Beach marks the start of what Henry David Thoreau referred to as “the Great Beach.” It’s part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, characterized by picturesque dunes, marshland and wide swathes of sand. One of the best beaches for swimming on the Cape in the summer, lifeguards are typically on duty throughout the season. There are also outdoor showers, changing rooms and restrooms. No restaurants are on-site but just a few miles away in town you’ll find plenty. Keep in mind that during the summer, the parking area is reserved for residents and the disabled but a complimentary shuttle bus is offered from the Little Creek parking area in Eastham. 

Ogunquit is often named the No.1 beach in Maine and it frequently ranks among the country’s very best. It offers 3.5 miles of soft sands backed by dunes edged with roses. Ideal for families, many come to build sandcastles, splash in the waves, fly a kite, beachcomb and catch a magnificent sunset. It’s divided up into three beaches: North Beach, Main Beach and Footbridge Beach. Main Beach is at its heart—it’s usually the most crowded offering the usual beachfront amenities, snack bars and restaurants. Lifeguards are present at all three.