Shannon O'Brien Travel Itineraries

The best destinations

Island Clearwater Beach FL. Ocean or shore Gulf of Mexico. Spring break or Summer vacations in Florida. Hotels, restaurants and Resorts. Tropical Nature. Aerial view.
Island Clearwater Beach FL. Ocean or shore Gulf of Mexico. Spring break or Summer vacations in Florida. Hotels, restaurants and Resorts. Tropical Nature. Aerial view.

Best Beaches in the USA

1. Poipu Beach Park, Poʻipū, Kauai, Hawaii

the afternoon on the Poipu beach, Kauai, light sand, pure ocean

Best time to visit: April-June, Aug-Oct

  • Poipu Beach Park is a beach located on the southern shore of Kauai
  • The park is well-suited for swimming, snorkeling, bodyboarding, and surfing
  • It has areas designated for both calm swimming and more challenging surf breaks for experienced surfers

2. Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island, Georgia

Golden sunrise on Driftwood Beach on Tybee Island off the Atlantic coast of Georgia
  • Driftwood Beach is situated on Jekyll Island, and is known for its collection of ancient driftwood and weathered tree trunks on the beach, often described as resembling a graveyard for sun-bleached trees
  • Driftwood Beach is part of Jekyll Island State Park, accessible via two boardwalks
  • Visitors can enjoy various activities such as picnicking and stargazing

3. Ocean City Beach, Maryland

Ocean City, MD USA - October 6, 2018: Tourists walk along the southern tip of Ocean City Beach on the Atlantic Ocean in late afternoon on a sunny autumn day

Best time to visit: late May-early Sept

  • Ocean City Beach refers to the coastline located in Ocean City, which features a 10-mile stretch of pristine sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean
  • The beach is known for its clean, smooth sand and clear waters, making it ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and various beach sports
  • The area includes a boardwalk with numerous attractions, including arcades, restaurants, and shops

Featured in The Best of Maryland


4. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Green trees frame the view down the beach of Haystack Rock and Cannon Beach on a sunny day in Oregon

Featured in The Best of Oregon


5. Ka'anapali Beach, Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii

Looking down on Kaanapali Beach, Maui, Hawaii

Best time to visit: April-May, Sept-Nov

  • Ka'anapali Beach is a renowned beach located on the coast of Maui
  • The beach is flanked by several resorts, restaurants, and shopping areas
  • Ka'anapali Beach is known for its diverse recreational activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping
  • It is also a location for spotting marine life, such as Hawaiian green sea turtles

6. Clearwater Beach, Florida

Island Clearwater Beach FL. Ocean or shore Gulf of Mexico. Spring break or Summer vacations in Florida. Hotels, restaurants and Resorts. Tropical Nature. Aerial view.

Best time to visit: Oct-Dec

  • Clearwater Beach is a renowned beach destination located in Clearwater, that stretches along the Gulf of Mexico
  • It is situated on a barrier island, where it offers a range of activities, including swimming, water sports, and beachside dining
  • Additionally, there are also inflatable water attractions near the pier
  • Pier 60 features shops, restaurants, and sunset views

Featured in The Best of Florida


7. Grayton Beach State Park, Florida

Aerial View of Grayton Beach Florida on a Beautiful Spring Afternoon
  • Grayton Beach is a small, historic beach village on the Florida Panhandle Gulf coast, founded in the mid-1880s
  • The village is known for featuring a mix of quaint historic cottages and modern beach homes, along with local art galleries, shops, and live music venues
  • It offers various recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and kayaking in its coastal dune lakes

Featured in The Best of Florida


8. Siesta Beach, Siesta Key, Florida

Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota Florida shot by aerial drone. #1 Beach in the USA.

Best time to visit: April-May, Sept-Oct

  • Siesta Beach is a beach located on Siesta Key
  • Unlike beaches elsewhere that are made up mostly of pulverized coral, Siesta Beach's sand is 99% quartz, most of which comes from the Appalachian Mountains
  • Even on the hottest days, the sand is so reflective that it feels cool underfoot

9. Duke's Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

Diamond Head Crater seen from Duke Kahanamoku  Beach, Honolulu Oauhu

Best time to visit: mid-April-early June-Sept-mid-Dec

  • Duke's Beach, also known as Duke Kahanamoku Beach, is located in Waikīkī, Oahu
  • The beach is part of the famous Waikīkī Beach and is situated in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village and the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon
  • It is named in honor of Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, an Olympic swimmer and a celebrated figure in Hawaiian culture

Featured in The Best of Hawaii


10. South Beach, Miami Beach, Florida

South Beach, Miami Beach. Florida.

Best time to visit: March-May

  • South Beach, also nicknamed colloquially as SoBe, is a neighborhood in Miami Beach
  • South Beach is famous for its picturesque beaches, offering a range of activities such as sunbathing, swimming, and water sports
  • The neighborhood boasts a bustling nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants
  • South Beach is home to several cultural landmarks, including the Art Deco Historic District, which features well-preserved buildings from the 1920s and 1930s

Featured in The Best of Florida


11. Santa Monica State Beach, California

Santa Monica Beach, Los Angeles, California, USA

Best time to visit: Sept-Nov

  • Santa Monica State Beach is a California State Park located in the city of Santa Monica
  • The beach has parks, picnic areas, playgrounds, as well as, the Muscle Beach, bike rentals, concessions, a few hotels, a bike path, and wooden pathways
  • Visitor activities include volleyball, surfing, stand up paddleboarding, and swimming

12. Coronado Beach, California

Beach scene; Coronado Island; San Diego, California
  • Coronado Beach is a beach located in the city of Coronado, just across the San Diego Bay
  • It is situated adjacent to the iconic Hotel del Coronado, a historic beachfront hotel
  • Coronado Beach offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, beach volleyball, and sunbathing

13. Venice Beach, California

Los Angeles, California USA - 3 20 2024: a gorgeous spring landscape at Venice Beach Skatepark at Venice Beach with young men riding skateboards and people watching, palm trees, buildings and blue sky
  • Venice Beach includes a promenade that runs parallel to the beach, the Venice Beach Boardwalk, Muscle Beach, and the Venice Beach Recreation Center with handball courts, paddle tennis courts, a skate dancing plaza, and numerous beach volleyball courts
  • It also includes a bike trail and many businesses on Ocean Front Walk
  • The basketball courts in Venice are renowned across the country for their high level of streetball; numerous professional basketball players developed their games or have been recruited on these courts

14. Hollywood Beach, Florida

Hollywood beach in north Miami, Florida with sand landscape beautiful palm trees in foreground against idyllic ocean water and sunny blue sky in summer
  • Hollywood Beach has a broadwalk that extends about 2.5 miles along the ocean
  • Restaurants and hotels line the broadwalk, along with a theater, children's playground, and other attractions, including bicycle rental shops, ice-cream parlors, souvenir shops, and a farmer's market
  • The broadwalk is used for walking and jogging, and has a bike lane for bicyclists and rollerbladers

Featured in The Best of Florida


15. El Matador State Beach, Malibu, California

Matador beach and beautiful landscape with rocks and ocean against blue sky, California

Best time to visit: Aug-Sept

  • El Matador State Beach is a picturesque beach located in Malibu, known for its natural beauty
  • The beach features dramatic rock formations, sea caves, and a long stretch of sandy shoreline
  • El Matador is ideal for sunbathing, exploring tide pools, and enjoying scenic walks along the coast

16. Coopers Beach, Southampton, New York

Clear blue sky at Cooper's Beach In Southampton
  • Coopers Beach is a renowned beach located in Southampton, often celebrated for its natural beauty and amenities
  • Coopers Beach is frequently ranked among the top beaches in the United States, noted for its picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean and historic mansions

Featured in The Best of New York


17. Pope Beach, South Lake Tahoe, California

Small wave crashing at Pope Beach in South Lake Tahoe with seagull in the sky overhead.

Best time to visit: March-May, Sept-Nov

  • Pope Beach is a beach located on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe
  • It is known for its shallow waters, making it ideal for families with children
  • The sandy beach is well-suited for picnicking and barbecuing
  • Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking in the surrounding areas
  • The beach is set against a backdrop of native pine trees and offers views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains

18. La Jolla Cove, California

La Jolla Shores in La Jolla San Diego, Southern California Coast
  • La Jolla Cove is a small cove with a beach that is surrounded by cliffs in La Jolla
  • The area is protected as part of a marine reserve and is popular with snorkelers, swimmers and scuba divers
  • While the beach has only a small dry sand area at high tide, during very low tides, tide pools are revealed at the cove
  • There are hundreds of sea lions that call La Jolla Cove home, sometimes being seen in the deeper-water parts of the cove or basking on rocks

19. Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur, California

Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach California landscape in sunny summer day, Big Sur, California.

Best time to visit: Sept-Nov

  • Pfeiffer Beach is a beach located in the Big Sur region
  • One of the most distinctive characteristics of Pfeiffer Beach is its purple sand, which is created by the presence of tiny garnet particles mixed with the regular sand
  • The beach is famous for Keyhole Rock, a natural rock formation that creates a dramatic archway through which waves crash

20. Wailea Beach, Maui, Hawaii

Pathway to Maui Wailea Beach

Best time to visit: April-May, Sept-Nov

  • Wailea Beach is a renowned beach located in Wailea, Maui
  • Wailea Beach is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, making it suitable for outdoor enthusiasts
  • Visitors can enjoy views of nearby islands like Kaho'olawe and Molokini, especially during the winter months when whale sightings are common

Featured in The Best of Hawaii


21. Harris Beach State Park, Oregon

Driftwood on beautiful Harris Beach State Beach on the Pacific Ocean, in Brookings, Curry County, Oregon
  • Harris Beach State Park is a scenic park renowned for its seascapes, sandy beaches, and rocky outcrops
  • The park features rugged coastal bluffs and numerous sea stacks
  • The park is home to Bird Island (also known as Goat Island), which is a National Wildlife Sanctuary and a breeding site for various seabird species

Featured in The Best of Oregon


22. Sand Harbor, Lake Tahoe–Nevada State Park, California

USA, Nevada, Washoe County, Sand Harbor State Park. A swimming cove on the shores of Lake Tahoe.

Best time to visit: March-May, Sept-Nov

  • Sand Harbor is an area within the Lake Tahoe–Nevada State Park, located on the shore of Lake Tahoe
  • It is renowned for its gently sloping sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique rock formations, making it a popular destination for various recreational activities such as swimming, kayaking, and scuba diving

23. Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland

Wild Ponies of the Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland
  • Assateague Island National Seashore is a protected area spanning approximately across Maryland and Virginia
  • It is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, which include sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests, and coastal bays
  • The seashore is particularly famous for its wild horses, which roam freely on the island, as well as its rich birdlife and recreational opportunities

Featured in The Best of Maryland


24. Coligny Beach Park, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Girl walking to the beach on summer trip. Woman enjoying vacation alone.. Coligny Beach Park, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, USA

Best time to visit: April-May, Sept-Oct

  • Coligny Beach Park is an oceanfront park located on Hilton Head Island, renowned for its sandy beach and a variety of amenities
  • Visitors can enjoy swimming, volleyball, walking, and biking on the beach

25. Oak Street Beach, Chicago, Illinois

Ohio Street Beach, Chicago

Best time to visit: April-May, Sept-Oct

  • Oak Street Beach is a popular urban beach located in Chicago, along the shore of Lake Michigan
  • The beach offers various amenities, including chair rentals, food and beverage options, and bike rentals
  • Despite being in a metropolitan area, Oak Street Beach is noted for its cleanliness and scenic views, with the Chicago skyline providing a striking backdrop
  • The beach has been a popular destination since the 1890s and has played a significant role in the development of Chicago's lakefront

Featured in The Best of Illinois


26. Hanalei Bay, Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai, Hawai, USA - January 28, 2024: Hanalei Pier in Kauai, Hawai, USA. Hanalei Pier is a pier built into Hanalei Bay on the northern shore of the island of Kauai.

Best time to visit: April-June, Aug-Oct

  • Hanalei Bay is the largest bay on the north shore of Kauai, where it features a crescent shape and is renowned for its picturesque views and beaches
  • The bay is home to several beaches, including Hanalei Beach, which is favored for swimming, kayaking, and other water sports
  • The Hanalei Pier, built in the late 19th century, served as a transportation hub for rice and sugar and remains a popular gathering spot

Featured in The Best of Hawaii


27. Assateague Island, Assateague Island National Seashore, Virginia

Wild horses of Assateague Island National Seashore
  • Assateague Island is a 37-mile long barrier island, straddling the states of Maryland and Virginia
  • It is renowned for its sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests, and coastal bays
  • Assateague Island is famous for its population of wild ponies, known as the Chincoteague ponies, which roam freely across the island
  • The island offers various recreational activities, including hiking on its trails, biking, and swimming

Featured in The Best of Virginia


28. Caladesi Island State Park, Florida

Family on summer vacation trip in Florida. People walking on pathway to the beach. Friends exploring island along the Gulf Coast. Caladesi Island State Park, USA, Florida.
  • Caladesi Island State Park is a state park located on Caladesi Island in the Gulf of Mexico
  • It is accessible by passenger ferry or by private boat from a dock on Honeymoon Island
  • Amenities include a three-mile nature trail, a marina, picnic pavilions, bathhouses, a park concession stand, and a beach
  • The park affords such activities as boating, including canoeing and kayaking; fishing; hiking; picnicking; swimming and snorkeling; and birding and other wildlife-viewing

Featured in The Best of Florida


29. Carlsmith Beach Park, Hilo, Hawaii, Hawaii

Small Island and Lava Rock Shoreline, Carlsmith Beach Park, Hilo, Hawaii Island, Hawaii, USA

Best time to visit: Sept-Nov

  • Carlsmith Beach Park, also known as Four Mile Beach, is a public beach located on the Big Island of Hawaii
  • It is renowned for its calm, shallow waters and protected lagoons, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling
  • The park also offers the opportunity to see honu (green sea turtles) and various fish species in the water
  • It's also possible to spot the occasional humpback whale during their migration season

Featured in The Best of Hawaii


30. Waikīkī Beach, Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

Honolulu, Hawaii. Waikiki beach and Honolulu's skyline.

Best time to visit: mid-April-early June-Sept-mid-Dec

  • Waikiki Beach is a renowned beach located in the Waikiki neighborhood of Honolulu, in Oʻahu
  • Once a playground for Hawaiian royalty, Waikiki has transformed into a center for surfing, swimming, and snorkeling
  • The beach offers views of Diamond Head, a volcanic crater, and one of Hawaii's most recognizable landmarks

Featured in The Best of Hawaii


31. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

Sunny day at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.
  • Wrightsville Beach is a beach and town located in New Hanover County, just east of Wilmington
  • It is renowned for its stunning crystal blue waters, expansive sandy shores, and beach culture
  • The beach is a popular destination for various water sports, including surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing
  • The area features a fitness trail known as "The Loop," which is popular for jogging and walking

32. Big Beach, Makena State Park, Maui, Hawaii

Big Beach at Makena State Park in Maui Hawaii

Best time to visit: April-May, Sept-Nov

  • Big Beach, also known as Makena Beach or Oneloa, is one of the largest beaches located within Makena State Park on the coast of Maui
  • The beach is particularly known for its large shore breaks, making it a favorite spot for experienced surfers and boogie boarders
  • The park features scenic landscapes, including cinder cones and black lava outcroppings, enhancing its natural appeal

Featured in The Best of Hawaii


33. Beachwalker County Park, Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Photo of Kiawah Island Beach Walk
  • Beachwalker County Park, also known as Kiawah Beachwalker Park, is located on the west end of Kiawah Island
  • It is notable for being the only public beach access on the island, providing visitors with a stretch of sandy shore along the Atlantic Ocean
  • Visitors can enjoy various activities including swimming, kayaking, canoeing, surfing, fishing, and biking along the scenic shoreline

34. Ruby Beach, Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park, Washington, USA at Ruby Beach with piles of deadwood and sunset

Best time to visit: July-Aug

  • Ruby Beach is a beach located on the western coast of the state, within Olympic National Park
  • It is known for its unique reddish sand, which contains minerals called almandite, a type of garnet
  • Ruby Beach is famous for its large sea stacks, driftwood, and views of the Pacific Ocean, offering several miles of shore to explore

35. Grand Haven State Park, Michigan

Girl flies kite on beach at Grand Haven State Park on Lake Michigan. Created 10.25.24
  • Grand Haven State Park is a public recreation area located in Grand Haven, along the shores of Lake Michigan
  • The park features a half-mile stretch of sandy shoreline along Lake Michigan, where it is situated at the mouth of the Grand River, providing scenic views of both the lake and the river
  • Visitors can enjoy various activities such as swimming, sunbathing, hiking, and fishing
  • The park also offers views of the Grand Haven pier and lighthouse, and is walking distance of downtown Grand Haven, allowing easy access to local shops and restaurants

Featured in The Best of Michigan


36. Panama City Beach, Florida

panama city beach and the gulf of mexico, looking west from st. andrews state park

Best time to visit: May-Oct

  • Panama City Beach is a resort town in the Florida Panhandle
  • It is a popular vacation destination, especially among people in the Southern United States
  • The area is celebrated for its beautiful beaches, which have been recognized among the top beaches in the United States by various travel platforms
  • The town is also a popular spring break destination, due to its beach and proximity to most of the Southern United States

Featured in The Best of Florida


37. Treasure Island Beach, California

Laguna Beach ocean shoreline with palm trees at Treasure Island Park, California, USA
  • Treasure Island Beach is a picturesque beach located in Laguna Beach
  • It features a sandy bottom and can experience strong shorebreak surf, making it popular for beachgoers who enjoy swimming and sunbathing
  • The beach is a popular spot for photography, especially due to its scenic landscapes, including a naturally occurring cliffside arch

38. Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia

Cumberland Island National Seashore managed by National Park Service. Cumberland Island horse, a band of feral horses at Dungeness Mansion ruins once owned by Carnegie Family, ruined by fire.

Featured in The Best of Georgia


39. Nāpili Bay, Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii

Photo of Napili Bay

Best time to visit: April-May, Sept-Nov

  • Nāpili Bay is a beach located on the coast of Maui, known for its crescent-shaped sandy shoreline, which is fringed by coconut palms
  • The bay is sheltered by a reef, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding
  • Nāpili Bay is a great spot for observing marine life, including tropical fish and sea turtles

Featured in The Best of Hawaii


40. Main Beach, East Hampton, New York

East Hampton, NY, USA July 27,  A young woman finds Solitude on East Hampton's Main Beach
  • Main Beach is a beach located in the Village of East Hampton, in eastern Long Island
  • It is a center of the summer resort and upscale locality at the East End of Long Island known as The Hamptons and is generally considered one of the area's two most prestigious communities
  • East Hampton's beaches are highly regarded because of their clean white sands, the fact they're relatively accessible and because there is minimal development along the beach, which is strictly residential
  • Parking space at the village beaches is limited, which prevents crowding
  • Parking is prohibited on neighboring street, but there is no law that restricts people from accessing the beaches via bike, foot or being dropped off

Featured in The Best of New York


41. Medano Creek, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado

Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, Colorado, USA - May 06, 2016: A group kids are playing in Medano Creek at the base of sand dunes and snow-capped peaks as spring clouds passing over.
  • Medano Creek is a seasonal stream located within the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
  • It is notable for its unique surge flow, where the water moves in rhythmic waves across sandy terrain
  • The creek typically begins to flow in late March to early April, peaks around June, and then dries up by August, depending on snowpack and rainfall
  • This makes it a popular destination for recreational activities such as picnicking and floating on rafts

Featured in The Best of Colorado


42. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

aerial view of Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
  • Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote national park located approximately 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West, in the Gulf of Mexico
  • The park is renowned for Fort Jefferson, a massive coastal fortress built in the 19th century
  • Fort Jefferson is one of the largest brick structures in the Americas and serves as a significant historical site
  • The park is celebrated for its coral reefs, marine life, and bird populations, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving

43. Fort Lauderdale Beach, Florida

Seafront beach promenade with palm trees on a sunny day in Fort Lauderdale and seagulls

Best time to visit: Jan-April, Dec

  • Fort Lauderdale Beach stretches approximately three miles along the Atlantic Ocean, featuring golden sand and clear turquoise waters, making it ideal for sunbathing and swimming
  • Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling

Featured in The Best of Florida


44. Sand Beach, Acadia National Park, Maine

The Sand Beach, at Acadia National Park, Maine.

Best time to visit: Sept-early Oct

  • Sand Beach is a prominent destination located within Acadia National Park, situated on the east side of Mount Desert Island
  • It is the largest sandy beach in Acadia National Park, and is nestled between granite mountains and rocky shores
  • Sand Beach is accessible via Park Loop Road, and it is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking
  • The beach is described as a "migrating beach," meaning its appearance can change due to natural forces like tides and storms

Featured in The Best of Maine


45. Hoʻokipa Beach Park, Paia, Maui, Hawaii

Ho'okipa Beach Park in Maui Hawaii, renowned windsurfing and surf site for wind, big waves and big Turtles drying on sand. Snorkeling paradise for coral reefs.

Best time to visit: April-May, Sept-Nov

  • Hoʻokipa is a beach on the north shore of Maui
  • The beach is perhaps the most renowned windsurfing site in the world
  • A combination of large, well-shaped waves breaking across a system of reefs that extend across the bay and consistently strong winds make it ideal for the sport
  • Ho'okipa Beach is occasionally a tourist attraction in the winter time because of spectacularly large surf

Featured in The Best of Hawaii


46. North Beach, Tybee Island, Georgia

Sand Dunes on North Beach With  Historic Tybee Island Light Station, Tybee Island, Georgia, USA
  • North Beach, on Tybee Island, is a beach and area that features historic sites, as well as, unique eateries and shops.
  • Notably, the Tybee Island Lighthouse is situated on North Beach
  • Visitors can enjoy dolphin watching, and strolls along the shore, especially during low tide in the late afternoon
  • North Beach is also a great spot for birdwatching, with various species often seen near the dunes and scrub areas

Featured in The Best of Georgia


47. Gray Whale Cove State Beach, Montara, California

The Gray Whale Cove State beach, a beautiful beach close to San Francisco
  • Gray Whale Cove State Beach is a coastal California State Park between Pacifica, California, and Montara, California
  • It features a sheltered cove surrounded by abrupt cliffs, with trails connecting to nearby Montara Mountain and McNee Ranch State Park
  • The beach is named for the frequent sightings of gray whales, especially during their migration seasons

48. St. Augustine Beach, Florida

Pier at St. Augustine Beach in Florida as the sun rises above the horizon

Best time to visit: March-May

  • St. Augustine Beach is a coastal city, and is known for its rich history and beaches
  • The beach is popular for its soft sands and surf, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports
  • The sunsets at St. Augustine Beach are particularly noted for their beauty, attracting photographers and nature lovers alike

Featured in The Best of Florida


49. Good Harbor Beach, Gloucester, Massachusetts

Good Harbor Beach and Salt Island aerial view in summer in Gloucester, Cape Ann, Massachusetts MA, USA.
  • Good Harbor Beach is a beach located in Gloucester, known for its white sand and gentle surf
  • The beach boasts a curved shoreline with fine, clean sand, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing
  • It is renowned for various activities, including swimming, body surfing, and boogie boarding
  • At low tide, visitors can walk out to Salt Island

50. Seacliff State Beach, Aptos, California

Sea Cliff State Beach in Aptos, California
  • Seacliff State Beach is a state beach park on Monterey Bay, in the town of Aptos
  • Seacliff includes picnic tables, and fire pits, and is also a popular place for surfing and fishing
  • The beach is most known for the concrete ship SS Palo Alto lying in the water
  • The unfinished ship was hauled to Seacliff Beach in 1930 by the Cal-Nevada Company, beached, and turned into an amusement center, complete with a ballroom, a cafe, a 4-foot heated pool, and carnival booths
  • The company went bankrupt after two seasons, though, and the ship was stripped
  • Nowadays, it is now permanently closed to the public

51. Henderson Beach State Park, Destin, Florida

A beautiful view of a wooden path going to Henderson Beach State Park Destin in the USA

Best time to visit: April-May

  • Henderson Beach State Park is a state park located near Destin
  • The park has such amenities as beaches, bicycling, birding, fishing, hiking, picnicking, swimming, wildlife viewing and camping facilities

Featured in The Best of Florida


52. Rockaway Beach, New York City, New York

Rockaways, Queens, New York beach front and ocean during summer. Blue skies and white sand.

Best time to visit: Jan-Dec

  • The Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk is a public park in Rockaway, Queens, New York
  • The beach became a popular resort area in the late 19th century - Today Rockaway Beach is the only one of New York City's beaches that sees significant surf, and the city's only legal surfing beaches are along Rockaway Beach

Featured in The Best of New York


53. Padre Island National Seashore, Texas

Sea Oats on the dunes at Malaquite Beach, Padre Island National Seashore.

Best time to visit: Jan-Feb, Sept-Dec

  • Padre Island National Seashore is a protected area located on Padre Island, notable for being the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world
  • The park encompasses pristine beaches, dunes, grasslands, and the unique hypersaline Laguna Madre
  • The seashore includes various habitats such as coastal prairie, dynamic dune systems, and tidal flats rich in wildlife
  • It offers beach access, camping, fishing, and wildlife observation
  • The area is also a significant nesting ground for sea turtles

Featured in The Best of Texas


54. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, Naples, Florida

Boardwalk across the white sand beach of Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park with a blue sky above in Naples, Florida.

Best time to visit: March-June

  • Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a Florida state park located on a barrier island on Florida's coast, near Naples
  • The Cocohatchee River and the Gulf of Mexico are accessible from the park, which contains a hard-bottom reef.
  • Activities include fishing, sunbathing, swimming, paddleboarding, boating, geocaching, hiking, and nature viewing
  • Visitors can also scuba dive, snorkel, kayak, and picnic

Featured in The Best of Florida


55. Henderson Beach State Park, Destin, Florida

A beautiful view of a wooden path going to Henderson Beach State Park Destin in the USA

Best time to visit: April-May

  • Henderson Beach State Park is a state park located near Destin
  • The park has such amenities as beaches, bicycling, birding, fishing, hiking, picnicking, swimming, wildlife viewing and camping facilities

Featured in The Best of Florida


56. Asbury Park Beach, New Jersey

Asbury Park Aerial During Covid19 Pandemic
  • Asbury Park Beach is located along the Jersey Shore, and features a beach that stretches for a mile, attracting surfers, swimmers, sunbathers, and fishers
  • It has been a favored spot for outdoor recreational activities for centuries
  • Throughout the year, Asbury Park hosts various events, including summertime fireworks and concerts
  • Adjacent to the beach is the Asbury Park Boardwalk, which offers a mix of food, shopping, and entertainment options

57. Tunnels Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

Aerial shot off the coast over Tunnels beach on Hawaiian island of Kauai with Na Pali mountains behind

Best time to visit: April-June, Aug-Oct

  • Tunnels Beach, also known as Makua Beach, is located on the North Shore of Kauai
  • The beach gets its nickname from the extensive network of lava tubes that can be found within its coral reef
  • Tunnels Beach is famous for its exceptional coral reef teeming with marine life, including turtles, fish, and even Hawaiian monk seals

Featured in The Best of Hawaii


58. Edisto Beach State Park, South Carolina

The stands of the wooden pier on Edisto Island, South Carolina
  • Edisto Beach State Park is a scenic state park located on Edisto Island
  • It is renowned for its pristine beaches lined with palmetto trees and offers a variety of recreational activities
  • Visitors can engage in activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing

59. Ogunquit Beach, Maine

Photo of Ogunquit Beach
  • Ogunquit Beach is a popular beach located in Ogunquit that features soft, white sand along picturesque dunes edged with beach roses
  • The beach offers various activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying gentle surf
  • Visitors can enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Ogunquit River, especially at low tide when walking from the ocean side to the river side is possible
  • Ogunquit Beach offers various amenities, including seating areas with Adirondack chairs

Featured in The Best of Maine


60. Carmel River State Beach, California

Carmel River State Beach, California
  • Carmel River State Beach is a state park at the mouth of Carmel Valley, featuring a 1-mile-long (1.6 km) protected beach with a lagoon formed by the Carmel River
  • The lagoon attracts many migratory birds, and is popular with scuba divers and kayakers, who can access the notable kelp forests in the area

61. Coast Guard Beach, Eastham, Massachusetts

Golden Sunrise on Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod National Seashore at Eastham Massachusetts
  • Coast Guard Beach is a beach located in Eastham, that is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore
  • The beach is well-known for activities such as surfing and boogie boarding
  • The nearby visitor center offers a shuttle service to this bustling locale

62. Fort Macon State Park, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

Sunny day at Fort Macon State Park.
  • Fort Macon State Park is a state park located in Carteret County, centered around a meticulously restored 19th-century Civil War fort, which offers visitors a glimpse into historical military architecture and life during that era
  • The park encompasses a diverse barrier island ecosystem, providing visitors with 5 miles of trails and beach areas
  • The park also includes daily tours of the fort, along with cannon and musket demonstrations

63. Bahia Honda Key, Florida

Bahia Honda State Park - Calusa Beach, Florida Keys - tropical coast with paradise beaches - USA
  • Bahia Honda is an island in the Florida Keys, virtually uninhabited, being home to Bahia Honda State Park
  • The 2.5-mile (4.0 km) natural, white sand beach is popular for swimming
  • A nature trail near the park's oceanside beach skirts a tidal lagoon
  • Bicycling and inline skating can be done on the park's paved road, and there are several fishing and picnicking spots in the area
  • The Sand and Sea Nature Center features displays about local sea and shore life, including corals, shells, crabs, sea urchins, drift seeds, sea sponges and sea turtles
  • Kayaks and snorkeling gear can be rented at the park, and boat trips for snorkeling on the reef are available

Featured in The Best of Florida


64. Siesta Key, Sarasota, Florida

Drone Fly view over beach in Siesta Key,  Florida. Beautiful Siesta Key beach on a sunny day. Turquoise transparent water and blue sea in Siesta Key beach.

Best time to visit: March-May, Sept-Nov

  • Siesta Key is a barrier island located off the southwest coast of Florida, renowned for its beaches
  • The island offers a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports
  • Siesta Key also features a village with shops, restaurants, and local attractions

Featured in The Best of Florida


65. Waiʻanapanapa State Park, Hana, Maui, Hawaii

The famous black sand beach and crystal blue water at Waiʻanapanapa State Park, in Hana on the eastern side of the island of Maui, Hawaii, United States.

Best time to visit: April-May, Sept-Nov

  • Waiʻanapanapa State Park is a park located in Hana, on the island of Maui
  • It features a dramatic volcanic coastline, renowned for its black sand beaches, freshwater caves, and panoramic coastal views, making it a popular destination for visitors along the famous Hana Highway

Featured in The Best of Hawaii


66. Melbourne Beach, Florida

Wooden stairs to the beach by the ocean from a private home in Florida, Melbourne Beach. Typical beach view in Florida
  • Melbourne Beach is a town and coastal community known for its beaches and outdoor activities
  • The town offers various attractions and sites that provide opportunities for fishing, nature walks, and enjoying the local wildlife, particularly during the sea turtle nesting season
  • Melbourne Beach also features boutiques and artisanal shops, especially in areas like the Eau Gallie Arts District

Featured in The Best of Florida


67. Alki Beach Park, Seattle, Washington

Alki Beach on a sunny June day.

Best time to visit: Sept-Oct

  • Alki Beach is a beach located in the West Seattle neighborhood of Seattle, stretching along Elliott Bay, known for its scenic views, recreational activities, and historical significance
  • The beach offers a variety of activities, including volleyball courts, tidepooling opportunities, as well as walking and biking paths
  • Alki Beach provides views of the Olympic Mountains and the Puget Sound

68. Fort De Soto Park, St. Petersburg, Florida

Boardwalk down to the quiet beach in Fort DeSoto Park.

Best time to visit: March-May

  • Fort De Soto Park is a park operated on five offshore keys, or islands: Madelaine Key, St. Jean Key, St. Christopher Key, Bonne Fortune Key and the main island, Mullet Key
  • The keys are connected by either bridge or causeway. The island group is accessible by toll road from the mainland
  • Historically, the islands were used for military fortifications; remnants and a museum exhibit this history
  • Two piers, beaches, picnic area, hiking trails, bicycling trails, kayak trail, and a ferry to Egmont Key State Park are available.
  • The park is a gateway site for the Great Florida Birding Trail.

Featured in The Best of Florida


69. Hapuna Beach, Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, Hawaii, Hawaii

Hapuna Beach State Park, Hawai’i Big Island - Aerial View

Walk difficulty: moderate

Best time to visit: Sept-Nov

  • Hapuna Beach is a renowned beach located on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii
  • Visitors can enjoy views of the surrounding landscape, including the Mauna Kea and Hualalai volcanoes

Featured in The Best of Hawaii


70. Coney Island Beach, Brooklyn, New York

New York City, United States - May-28-2024, Coney Island Beach and Wonder Wheel
  • Coney Island Beach is a renowned recreational area located in Brooklyn
  • It features nearly three miles of sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, making it a destination for visitors seeking sunbathing, swimming, and various beach activities
  • The beach is part of a larger entertainment district that includes the famous Coney Island Boardwalk, amusement parks, and attractions like roller coasters and games

Featured in The Best of New York


71. Sombrero Beach, Marathon, Florida

Sombrero Beach with palm trees on the Florida Keys, Marathon, Florida, USA. Tropical and paradise destination for vacation.
  • Sombrero Beach is a public beach located in Marathon at mile marker 50 on the Atlantic side of the Florida Keys
  • It is renowned for its sandy shoreline and clear waters, making it one of the most attractive beaches in the area
  • Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and playing beach volleyball

Featured in The Best of Florida


72. Oval Beach, Saugatuck, Michigan

Photography of Lake Michigan taken at Oval Beach, August 2022
  • Oval Beach is a renowned beach located in Saugatuck, known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities
  • Nestled among towering sand dunes and bordered by the Kalamazoo River, Oval Beach offers a setting along the pristine shores of Lake Michigan
  • Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, and area is also popular for picnicking

Featured in The Best of Michigan