The Top 16 Absolute Best Beaches in the USA

It's not like you have to fly across the world to visit a perfect beach. Who says you have to leave the US? There are thousands of miles of coastline in the country. From the rocky shores of the Pacific coast down to the Gulf of Mexico and along the Atlantic, there is something for everyone.

We have some great lakeshore spots that give the seaside a run for its money.

Are you ready to discover the best beaches in the US? My top 16 are from sea to shining sea.

1. Hapuna Beach, Big Island, Hawai’i

Hapuna Beach is the largest white-sand beach on the Big Island and it is one of the best in the United States. The calm waters are perfect for swimming or snorkeling. During the early months of the year, you might be able to spot whales.

There are many facilities in Hapuna; showers, food stalls, lifeguards, and more. It is one of the more popular beaches on the Big Island, so try to get there early in the morning to avoid midday crowds. It costs $5 to access and $5 to park.

If you are going to the Big Island of Hawai'i, don't miss out on this guide to spiritual experiences on the island.

• Where to stay: If you want to be as close as possible to Hapuna, the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is the place to stay. This is luxury accommodation, but there are more affordable places to stay on the Big Island, just not nearly as close as this location.
• When to visit: April and May (avoiding Memorial Day weekend and spring break) are both great months to visit the Big Island, especially if you want to spend some time at Hapuna. Temperatures are warm and there isn’t much rain during this time, so you’ll be able to enjoy some of the Big Island’s best weather.

2. Tunnels Beach, Kauai, Hawai’i

The big gusts of wind here make Tunnels Beach a must-visit for kite-surfers. It is a great spot to hang out on the sand under a palm tree or snorkel over the reef close to the shore.

The beach is shaped like a crescent and has a backdrop of green mountains. This spot has the same kind of beauty as the ocean, with golden sand and blue colors. You will get an amazing sunset view. What's not to love?

• Where to stay: One of the closest accommodations is Haena Place, a three-bedroom holiday home only 250 meters from the beach.
• When to visit: From September to November, the crowds from summer are mostly gone and the weather is warm, although there’s more of a chance of rain. This is a great time to get a deal on accommodation and flights. The same goes for April and May, and there’s less of a chance of rain, so that’s the best time to visit.

3. Glass Beach, Fort Bragg, California

If you only like white sand and baby-blue water, you might not get to see some unique beaches like this one. Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California, is one of the most overlooked beaches in the Golden State.

This small patch of California coast used to be a dump, which is why there is so much sea glass there today. The beach is so special because of the setting sun's effect on the shore around sunset. Glass Beach is just the beginning of your Fort Bragg adventure, with a pygmy forest and a state natural reserve nearby.

• Where to stay: One of the best places near Fort Bragg and Glass Beach is Noyo Harbor Inn, which also has one of the best restaurants in town. If you want to be even closer to the water, Country Inn Guesthouse is just a 10-minute walk away and has a sweet vintage feel.
• When to visit: To get the most out of the beach, aim to visit from mid-June to August. It’s peak season, so expect plenty of other people, but being able to take a dip in the Pacific makes it worthwhile.

4. Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur, California

Have you ever been to a beach with purple sand? Yes, purple! Pfeiffer Beach's unique color is due to erosion from the mountains. The sunsets here are amazing as the purple colors contrast with the fiery oranges and pinks in the sky. This place is a favorite among photographers because it shines through the large rock when the sun sets just right.

Pfeiffer is one of the most remote beaches on this list and is ideal for adventurous souls. The nearest place to buy food, water, and supplies is five miles away. The journey is worth it. This quick guide will show you how to find it.

• Where to stay: One of the closest places stay is Big Sur Lodge, a cozy getaway nestled in the mountains.
• When to visit: The best time to visit is in late spring or early summer (early May to mid-June), after the heavy rains. The sand is the most vibrant during this time, due to the rain washing more minerals from the mountains to the sea.

5. El Matador Beach, Malibu, California

El Matador in Malibu is the most popular beach on the Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach. There are beautiful sea stacks and rock formations to be found in the area.

There are a few sea caves and rock arches in the north end. When the entrance is accessible, you should check out the caves at low tide.

El Matador is on your California bucket list.

• Where to stay: The best part about staying near El Matador is that most hotels have incredible ocean views due to their being higher up on the bluffs. Sebastian by AvantStay is about as close as you can get and has some amazing amenities, including a private pool.
• When to visit: Aim for the very beginning or very end of summer (early June or early September), when the water is warm and there are sunny skies. The beach is at its most crowded from mid-June to August.

6. Hidden Beach, Lake Tahoe, Nevada

This is the first lake beach, but it won't be the last. The calm lake offers a unique experience that deserves the same hype as the seashore, even though you won't have endless views of the ocean.

The perfect place to swim or sunbathe is Hidden Beach on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. It is close to Sand Harbor off Highway 28. Climb down to the water to enjoy this peaceful resting point.

• Where to stay: Fool Around House near Sand Harbor is only about a 20-minute walk from Hidden Beach, so staying here means you can avoid having to park your car on the highway. This unique, dome-shaped house is perhaps one of the most quirky spots on Lake Tahoe.
• When to visit: It’s no secret that summer at Lake Tahoe is particularly magical, so why not visit during the warm season? If you want to avoid the crowds as much as possible in the summer, aim for the end of August or first week of September.

7. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is a top spot on your Oregon road-trip itinerary if you are an outdoorsy traveler. The Haystack Rock is one of the state's most recognizable landmarks.

Ecola State Park is one of the state parks near Cannon Beach. Cannon Beach is your base for all of your adventures in the pristine nature of Oregon's Pacific coast.

• Where to stay: Surfsand Resort is about as close as you can get and has a direct view of Haystack Rock.
• When to visit: Although Cannon Beach is easily one of the most beautiful places in Oregon, it doesn’t see huge crowds the way other seaside destinations in the US do. Visit during peak season (July through September) and enjoy the warm weather by taking a dip in the ocean. This is truly the best way to enjoy this place.

8. Lime Kiln Point, San Juan Island, Washington

One of the best places in the world to watch whales is at Lime Kiln Point in the San Juan archipelago. Although you won't find sand for lounging and sunbathing, this beach has plenty of characteristics that make it stand out: a jagged shoreline that fades into a thick forest, a historic 1919 lighthouse, and an abundance of wildlife to keep an eye out for.

You can see whales in the calm sea below, as well as sea lions, seals, porpoises, gray whales, and orcas. You can explore the 32-acre state park, which has miles of hiking trails to enjoy.

• Where to stay: Snug Harbor Resort and Marina is just a few miles away and has its own small, private beach. The elevated chic cabin vibe is perfect for a cozy getaway.
• When to visit: Prime whale-watching season is from May through September, but there are pods of orcas and other wildlife here all year round. If you want to get in the water to swim or kayak, visit during the peak summer months (July and August) or else the water may be too cold to enjoy.

9. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan

Sleeping Bear Dunes is a Midwestern paradise waiting for you to visit. The sand dunes are 400 feet above the lake's shores, creating a landscape unlike any other.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore spans over 100 square miles and has access to both Lake Michigan and Glen Lake. The shores are perfect for a picnic, kayak adventure, or afternoon swim. This beach paradise has around a hundred miles of hiking trails.

• Where to stay: To get the most out of Sleeping Bear, you can camp near the lakeshore or opt for quaint and cozy Arborvitae Point right on the lake.
• When to visit: Summertime is optimal if you want to partake in any water activities, but fall is less crowded, and the autumn colors in the surrounding forests are breathtaking. Either season is a spectacular time to visit.

10. Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor is for people who want to find a perfect rocky clifftop to sit upon and ponder the world.

Some of the beaches here are part of the national park. You can see Boulder Beach in the photo above. This is a great place to get some peace and quiet and it doesn't get crowded in the summer. Seal Harbor has a sandy shore and lots of beachgoers in the summer. There are more amenities at the Sand Beach in the National Park than at Seal Harbor.

You will want to come back to each summer because they all have the same green mountain backdrop.

• Where to stay: One of the best places any time of the year is Chiltern Inn, which has an old-school feel and features an indoor pool and sauna.
• When to visit: It’s no secret that Maine winters are freezing cold, so consider visiting in the summertime if you want to take advantage of the warm weather with a dip in the sea — otherwise forget about getting in the water. Sure, it’s high season, but if you don’t mind sharing the beach with other tourists and book your accommodation well in advance, it’s totally doable.

11. Nags Head, Outer Banks, North Carolina

Nags Head is a sleepy beach town with over 3000 year-round residents. The main activity in town is taking in the natural beauty of the shore, which is why this quaint destination is so relaxing. Nags Head Beach is about 12 miles long and has plenty of space to find peace and quiet.

Many places close to the Outer Banks offer visitors a glimpse into the history. The original keeper's quarters and a bird's-eye view of the shore can be seen from the Bodie Island Lighthouse, a relic from 1872.

• Where to stay: There are plenty of seaside accommodations to choose from in Nags Head, like the gorgeous holiday home Island Trader, which is a great option if you’re traveling with friends.
• When to visit: The Outer Banks get very congested with tourists in the summer months, so opt to visit in May before the crowds begin, or September after the start of the school year. This is when you’ll get the best deals on accommodations and still-spectacular weather.

12. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

America's Favorite Island is named because it is a top oceanfront destination in the country. Until the 1960s, when tourism boomed, it was a sleepy Atlantic coastal town. You will find world-class golf courses, ritzy hotels, and incredible restaurants with beachfront seating.

You can take a bike ride along the oceanfront bike path, kayak through the beautiful low-country marshes, or learn about bottlenose dolphins. There is plenty to keep you busy, but you can also enjoy the scenic ocean views on America's favorite island.

• Where to stay: Get into the Hilton Head Island spirit at the boutique hotel Inn and Club at Harbour Town, just steps from the beach.
• When to visit: Summer is the most popular time to visit — prices go through the roof from June through August. Since the island is warm all year round, plan a late spring or early fall trip to save on accommodations while also taking advantage of the sunny weather.

13. Tybee Island, Georgia

Tybee Island is a favorite among locals in the area, who only have to drive about 30 minutes to get there. Tybee Island is a peaceful place to dip your toes in the sand because of the no-nonsense vibe. It has a spot on our best East Coast beaches list.

There are three different parts of the shore at Tybee Island. The most laid-back of the three is North Beach, which is home to a picturesque lighthouse. The scene is similar but difficult to access because of limited parking. South Beach has the most attractions, hotels, and restaurants.

• Where to stay: Want to wake up and step out onto an oceanside terrace? Stay at DeSoto Beach Terraces and treat yourself to a gorgeous sunrise every morning of your stay.
• When to visit: Like many other places on this list, consider avoiding peak season in the summertime if you want to save on accommodation. Aim for April, May, or September through November for the best weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices.

14. Fort Myers, Florida

This is the place to relax and kick back. It's right for anyone who wants to go to the beach. There is a scene that looks like it is straight out of a magazine with the powdery white sand and pastel-colored sunrises.

Fort Myers has several small islands that you can sail to, which is an incredible experience for anyone who wants to learn to sail. If that isn't your thing, you can also stay on land and explore the streets of the city, stopping at the Ford Winter Estates to look into Florida's past.

• Where to stay: Just a 5-minute walk to the beach is the peaceful Lighthouse Resort: Inn & Suites, which features two pools and delightful outdoor spaces for barbecuing and picnicking.
• When to visit: Visit between March and May, making sure to avoid spring break if you want a quiet and relaxing trip. Spring lends itself to sunny days and warm temperatures with low humidity, perfect for hanging out on the beach. Plus, it’s still low season, so you can enjoy lower prices.

15. Miami Beach, Florida

If you want a Caribbean vacation without leaving the continental US, Miami Beach is as close as it gets. There is no other place like it in the country. South Beach is the most famous stretch of sand, where you can find people relaxing on a lounge chair or working out in the outdoor gym. If you ask me, I'll watch the prime people.

You can check out the lifeguard towers, the art Deco architecture, and the best Latin American cuisine in Florida on this bike tour. If you have always wanted to learn how to dance salsa, this is the place to do it.

There are more ideas on what to do in Miami Beach here.

• Where to stay: Find art deco charm that’s just six minutes from the beach at Esme Miami, which is not only drop-dead gorgeous but also a travel-sustainable property!
• When to visit: Like Fort Myers, visiting Miami Beach is ideal from March to May (with caution to avoid spring break) because of the endless sunshine and reasonable prices on accommodation.

16. Luquillo, Puerto Rico

Luquillo is one of the most photographed beach towns on the island, so it makes the list. This is the epitome of paradise, with towering palm trees decorating the white sand and subtle waves lapping the shore.

Luquillo has a few beaches to choose from, each boasting something different. The best places for swimming and snorkeling are Playa Azul, Playa Fortuna and Costa Azul. The only beach in Luquillo with big waves is La Pared, a popular surf spot.

You will find the best that Puerto Rico has to offer no matter where you hang out.

• Where to stay: Casa Coral is a travel-sustainable property and is right on La Pared Beach. It’s also next to a lagoon where you can paddleboard or kayak.
• When to visit: Summertime is the most popular season, even though the temperatures can be scorching. Avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler weather by visiting in April, May, September, or October.

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Now that you know what the best beaches are in the US, which one will you choose? Let us know if you missed your favorite one.