Top 10 Beach Destinations in the United States - Sun, Sand, and Surf Await!

Get ready to soak up the sun and surf at the top 10 beach destinations in the United States. From the stunning white sands of Maui to the rugged coastline of Maine, there's a beach for everyone in this diverse country. Relax on the pristine beaches of Florida's Gulf Coast, or explore the iconic Santa Monica pier in California. Discover the charming seaside towns of the Carolinas, or get your adrenaline pumping with water sports in Hawaii. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or an action-packed adventure, the United States has the perfect beach destination for you. Start planning your coastal getaway today and experience the beauty of America's beaches!

Try our AI-based destination finder tool

Find your perfect travel destination based on your individual preferences with our cutting-edge AI technology.

Get started

Maui, Hawaii

Maui, Hawaii is a great destination for anyone looking for the ultimate beach experience. This stunning island is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in the world, with crystal-clear waters, soft sandy shores, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. One of the most popular beaches in Maui is Kaanapali Beach, which is located on the west coast of the island. This long stretch of sand is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, with plenty of opportunities for water sports and other activities. And with its wide variety of restaurants, shops, and other amenities, Kaanapali Beach is the perfect place for a day-long beach excursion. Or if you're looking for something a bit more secluded, head to the north shore of Maui and check out the beautiful, isolated beaches of Hana. With its rocky coastlines, dense forests, and pristine white sands, Hana is a true paradise for beach lovers, and it's the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But no matter which beach you choose to visit in Maui, you're guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience. With its warm, sunny weather, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views, Maui is the perfect destination for anyone looking to relax, unwind, and soak up some of the natural beauty of Hawaii.

Miami, Florida

Miami, Florida is an excellent beach destination, known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. With over 15 miles of coastline, Miami is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. One of the best beaches in Miami is South Beach, which is famous for its hip vibe and beautiful Art Deco architecture. The beach is lined with palm trees and has a bustling promenade filled with people enjoying the warm weather and ocean breeze. But it’s not just South Beach that makes Miami a great beach destination. Miami Beach is also a must-visit, with its wide sandy beach and turquoise waters. Visitors can rent paddleboards or jet skis, or simply relax in a beach chair and watch the world go by. For those looking for a quieter beach experience, the Crandon Park Beach is the perfect choice. Located in Key Biscayne, the beach is surrounded by lush greenery and has a calm, serene atmosphere. Visitors can take a nature walk through the nearby mangrove forest or go kayaking in the bay. Miami's beaches are also known for their vibrant nightlife. Visitors can enjoy a drink at one of the beachside bars or dance the night away at one of the clubs. With its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere, Miami is the perfect destination for those looking for sun, sand, and fun.

San Diego, California

San Diego, California is one of the most popular destinations in the United States for beach lovers. With miles of coastline, tropical climate, and crystal-clear waters, San Diego is the perfect place to sunbathe, surf or simply take a relaxing vacation. One of the best things about San Diego’s beaches is the variety. From the wide, sandy stretches of La Jolla Cove to the hidden coves of Encinitas, there is a beach for everyone. Surfers will love the challenging waves at Black’s Beach or the laid-back atmosphere at Mission Beach. Families with kids will enjoy the tide pools and gentle surf at Coronado Beach, while couples looking for a romantic getaway can take a stroll on the secluded beaches of Torrey Pines. The city’s beaches are not just for sunbathing and swimming, but also for outdoor activities. Tourists can go kayaking in La Jolla Cove, snorkeling in the kelp forests of Point Loma, or even take a whale-watching tour. San Diego’s beaches also offer hiking trails, beach volleyball courts, and lots of picnic spots. San Diego is known for its stunning sunsets, and there is no better place to watch it than from the beach. Visitors can enjoy a romantic sunset walk on the beach or end their day with a bonfire at one of the city's many fire pits. Overall, San Diego's beaches offer a perfect blend of sun, surf, and fun. Whether you’re looking to relax in the sun or enjoy an active vacation, San Diego is the ideal destination for beach lovers.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is a must-visit destination for beach lovers. The beautiful white-sand beaches stretching over 60 miles along the Atlantic coast provide a perfect setting for a relaxing vacation. Myrtle Beach offers everything from water sports, beach activities, and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. The water temperature is perfect for swimming and the waves are perfect for surfing or boogie boarding. Myrtle Beach is not just a destination for beach lovers, but also for those who enjoy seaside adventures. Fishing, parasailing, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are some of the popular activities that visitors can enjoy. The coastal town is filled with fascinating attractions such as boardwalks, beachfront amusement parks, arcades, and delicious seafood restaurants that offer a great view of the beach. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. Myrtle Beach offers a variety of accommodation options for all budgets and preferences from luxurious beach resorts to budget-friendly hotels. There's no better place to relax and unwind than the beaches of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. With endless stretches of sand and sea, beach lovers are sure to find their perfect spot. Overall, with its warm waters, variety of activities and attractions, and beautiful scenery, Myrtle Beach is a great destination for anyone looking for a beach getaway.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu, Hawaii is an ultimate destination for beach lovers. The Island of Oahu where Honolulu is situated has a plethora of stunning beaches that offer exquisite sunsets, crystal-clear waters, and white sand. From the popular Waikiki Beach with its bustling atmosphere, to the more secluded and serene Hanauma Bay, Honolulu beaches offer something for everyone. Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world and it's perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. The beach is lined with towering palm trees and luxury hotels and resorts that offer an astonishing view of the Pacific Ocean. At the Hanauma Bay, visitors can experience the best snorkeling in Hawaii. The bay's calm waters and abundant coral reefs allow visitors to explore the diverse marine life, including sea turtles, tropical fish, and much more. Lanikai Beach is another popular beach in Honolulu that offers crystal-clear waters and powdery sand. The beach is located on the windward coast of Oahu, and it's perfect for swimming and kayaking. Apart from the beautiful beaches, Honolulu has a vibrant food scene, a rich culture, and a plethora of outdoor activities that visitors can enjoy during their stay. Overall, Honolulu, Hawaii, is the perfect destination for beach enthusiasts looking for a tropical paradise with a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure.

Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica, California is a paradise for beach lovers. With its 3.5 miles of pristine coastline, beautiful weather year-round, and endless recreational activities, this iconic beach town has something for everyone. Firstly, Santa Monica's beaches are world-renowned for their beauty. The shimmering blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and golden sand provide the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and fun in the sun. Whether you're looking to sunbathe, surf, swim, or play beach volleyball, there is plenty of space to indulge in your favorite beach activities. In addition, Santa Monica Beach offers a wide array of water sports and activities, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, and jet skiing. For a more relaxing experience, take a stroll or bike ride on the famous Santa Monica Beach Bike Path or the famous Ocean Front Walk, and admire the stunning views of the coastline. Moreover, Santa Monica boasts several attractions that are located right on the beach, such as the iconic Santa Monica Pier with its amusement park, aquarium, and restaurants. The Annenberg Community Beach House also offers several recreational activities and programs for visitors of all ages. Finally, Santa Monica's beach is the perfect spot for watching the stunning California sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into shades of pink, orange, and purple, while the Pacific Ocean glows with a golden hue. In conclusion, Santa Monica, California is a dream destination for beach lovers. From the pristine coastline to the endless recreational activities, this iconic beach town is a must-visit for anyone seeking a fun-filled and relaxing beach vacation.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach, Virginia is the perfect destination for beach lovers looking for a relaxing vacation. Located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia Beach boasts miles of pristine beaches with soft sand and crystal-clear water. There is no shortage of beach activities to enjoy, from swimming and fishing to sunbathing and surfing. One of the standout features of Virginia Beach is the boardwalk, which stretches for three miles along the beachfront. This iconic boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride. Be sure to stop at King Neptune, a 34-foot-tall bronze statue that stands guard over the boardwalk. For those seeking adventure, Virginia Beach offers plenty of water sports activities. Try your hand at kayaking, paddleboarding, or jet skiing. The waves are also perfect for surfing, with several surf schools offering lessons for both beginners and experienced surfers. Virginia Beach is also a great place for families, with several parks located near the beach. First Landing State Park is a great place to explore nature trails and go camping, while Mount Trashmore Park offers scenic views and playgrounds for kids. Overall, Virginia Beach is the perfect destination for those looking for a relaxing beach vacation with plenty of activities and entertainment options. With its stunning beaches, boardwalk, and water sports, you will never run out of things to do in this coastal paradise.

Panama City Beach, Florida

Panama City Beach in Florida is one of the most stunning tourist destinations in the state. Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, this city boasts a 27-mile-long stretch of sugar-white sand and crystal-clear waters that make it an ideal location for anyone looking for a beach vacation. Here are some reasons why Panama City Beach is an excellent destination for beach lovers. Firstly, the beach is pristine and vast, making it a perfect spot for sunbathing or enjoying water sports. The clear turquoise waters and soft sand make it a picturesque location for scuba diving, fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling. Parasailing is also available for those who dare to try. Moreover, the beach offers a wide range of activities for all ages, including dolphin watching, beach volleyball, and beachcombing. You can also take a sunset sail, rent a jet ski or a pontoon boat to have a fun day out on the water. Lastly, the beach offers a range of amenities, including public restrooms, showers, and beachside eateries, making your stay comfortable and convenient. In conclusion, Panama City Beach offers an unforgettable experience for beach lovers. The breathtaking views, beach activities, and amenities promise to make your vacation one that will be remembered for a lifetime. If you're planning a beach vacation, consider Panama City Beach, Florida, and let the waves and sand take you away.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

When it comes to a beach vacation, Outer Banks, North Carolina, tops the list of the best destinations in the United States. With miles and miles of pristine, uncrowded beaches, the Outer Banks is a paradise for beach lovers. One of the unique aspects of the Outer Banks is the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, where visitors can go swimming, fishing, bird watching, and sunbathing on unspoiled beaches that stretch for more than 70 miles. The seashore is home to some of the most beautiful sand dunes in the world, some of which tower over 100 feet in height. The Outer Banks beaches are also known for their excellent surfing conditions, making them a hit with surfers from all over the world. The best time for surfing here is during the fall and winter months, when the swells are at their biggest. In addition to the beach, the Outer Banks is home to several charming coastal towns and villages. The towns of Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills offer a blend of history and modern amenities, while the quieter towns of Duck and Southern Shores are perfect for those seeking a more peaceful vacation. Overall, the Outer Banks, North Carolina, provides the perfect combination of pristine beaches, picturesque coastal towns, and outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination for beach lovers.

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May, New Jersey, is a must-visit destination for beach lovers. It boasts 30 miles of pristine coastline with crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and picturesque sunsets that make it the perfect beach getaway. The beaches in Cape May are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and fishing. One of the best features of the beaches in Cape May is the abundance of wildlife. Visitors can spot dolphins, whales, and seals. They can also witness the annual horseshoe crab spawning that attracts thousands of migratory shorebirds. One of the top beaches in Cape May is Sunset Beach, which offers breathtaking views of the sunset over the ocean. Another popular beach is Higbee Beach, which is known for its secluded location, making it perfect for a tranquil beach experience. Cape May is also a prime destination for those who love beach activities. There are various water sports activities available, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and kayaking. A guided tour of the coastline is also an option. If you're looking for a family-friendly beach, Cape May is the place to be. There are playgrounds, picnic areas, and restrooms available on the beaches. Visitors can also take a stroll on the beach promenade, which is lined with shops and restaurants. In conclusion, Cape May, New Jersey, is a beautiful and charming destination that offers a diverse range of beaches, water activities, and family-friendly options. It is undoubtedly an ideal destination for beach enthusiasts.