The United States is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From the iconic Haystack Rock in Oregon to the wild horses of Assateague Island in Maryland, there are plenty of stunning beaches to explore. Whether you're looking for a surf haven with stellar waves or a family-friendly spot with powder-soft sand, there's something for everyone. Here's a comprehensive guide to the best beaches in the US, notable for their unique attractions, location or services.
Ocean City Beach in Maryland is a popular vacation spot, boasting ten miles of white sand beach and a three-mile boardwalk filled with attractions, bike rentals, shopping and delicious delicacies. Jet skiing, surf fishing and fishing trips are also popular here. San Diego's Coronado Beach is a mile and a half stretch of golden sand that shines with bits of mineral mica. Swimmers, surfers and sunbathers flock here during the day and stay to witness the beautiful sunsets.
The historic Hotel del Coronado is an elegant backdrop and an excellent place to enjoy a bite or cocktail at sunset. Dog-friendly North Beach is an added attraction. Lake Tahoe's Pope Beach is a stretch of sand nearly a mile long backed by shady pine trees. The beach offers great options for swimming, picnicking and views of the Nevada mountains.
Kayak rentals, picnic tables and barbecue grills are also available. Clearwater Beach in Florida has beautiful white sand that stretches two and a half miles along the Gulf of Mexico. Pier 60, an entertainment center, is centrally located on the beach, and cabanas, parasol chairs and a well-equipped playground only add to family fun. Visitors can rent fishing equipment and drop a line on the dock for the best year-round fishing in Florida.
Clearwater Beach also promises spectacular sunsets, and Pier 60 offers nightly entertainment 365 days a year, weather permitting. Harris Beach in Oregon is known for its miles of sandy shoreline, interesting rock formations and incredible tidal pools. Swimming, hiking, biking and bird watching are some of the most popular activities here. California's abundant wildlife, including migratory gray whales, common seals and sea lions, adds to the excitement throughout the year.
Plus, fully equipped campgrounds for RVs, tents and even some yurts are located a quarter of a mile from the beach. Chicago's Montrose Beach is a popular spot with sun loungers, umbrellas and cabanas available to rent. There's also a variety of food from local vendors. Cyclists, runners, walkers and skaters abound on the paved path that surrounds the beach.
Relax in the sun, watch the people or take part in a volleyball or chess match - the choice is yours! Carlsmith Beach in Hawaii is not your average sandy stretch - it's a grassy park filled with trees overlooking sparkling lagoons surrounded by lava. The crystal clear turquoise waters here are protected by a reef, making it an excellent spot for diving. The abundance of friendly sea turtles adds to the unique experience here. Prepare your lunch and enjoy the beautiful views from one of the shaded picnic tables. Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina is more than just a quiet beach town - it offers water sports such as surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking and kiteboarding.
Rent a rod and some bait and drop a line at Johnnie Mercers fishing pier while beach bars and live music take the party from day to night. Grand Haven State Park in Michigan has 48 acres of powdery white sand offering activities such as biking with thick tires, barbecues, sunbathing, swimming and volleyball. There's also a children's playground here as well as panoramic views of Lake Michigan and South Pier and Grand Haven Lighthouse - come to this beach for an incredible sunset!Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado has Medano Creek - a wide shallow river that emerges every spring and disappears every August depending on snowfall in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Visitors can enjoy wading in the water, tubing, skimboarding and building sand castles - plan your trip for weekdays in late May or early June!.
