9 American Beaches for a Classic Sun-and-Sea Vacation
There’s perhaps no place more synonymous with the warm weather than the beach. Fortunately, given the length and diversity of the US coastline, there are a bevy of picturesque shorelines, each with its own distinct character.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy one final beach getaway before the weather turns or you’re already planning to escape the cold this winter, you surely want the best. When putting together your itinerary, consider these nine top-rated shorelines.
Beachwalker County Park, South Carolina
So close to Charleston International Airport that you can be there within an hour of landing, the exclusive Kiawah Island boasts 10 miles of picturesque Atlantic shoreline. While much of the island’s sandy spots are private, anyone is welcome on Beachwalker County Park, located on Kiawah’s southern end.
The beach is flat and has fine sand, making it a perfect place for a long walk. Chairs and umbrellas are available to rent for those looking to relax, while the shallow waters and presence of lifeguards means you can feel safe letting your young ones splash around. A nature lover’s paradise, Beachwalker is also home to thousands of seabirds as well as ample marine life.
Caladesi Island State Park, Florida
Visitors can likewise spot seabirds at this undisturbed piece of Gulf Coast paradise. Hike through hidden paths in the dunes, or canoe or kayak through the mangrove trees, to see herons and other birds, as well as sea turtles.
As for the beach itself, visitors can luxuriate on soft white sands composed of crystalline quartz. When you need to cool off, take a dip in the shimmering waters. You can reach Caladesi directly by boat or ferry, but it’s also accessible via a long walk from Clearwater Beach at low tide.
Coast Guard Beach, Massachusetts
The breathtaking views of the Nauset Spit barrier system and bay has drawn many travelers to this Cape Cod beach. No less picturesque is the old Coast Guard Station perched atop the bluffs.
Coast Guard Beach’s waters are chilly, even in the summer, so swimming here is not for the faint of heart. With hundreds of acres of bikeable terrain nearby, however, it’s a great destination for those looking to explore.
Coligny Beach, South Carolina
On the opposite end of spectrum from untouched shorelines like Caladesi is the family-friendly Coligny Beach in South Carolina. Showers, gazebos, a splash fountain, even free WiFi—you can find all of this and more on Hilton Head’s southern coastline.
Despite the many amenities and comforts, the five-mile-long Coligny doesn’t lack for natural beauty. Soft sands and tranquil waters make it a wonderful choice for those looking for a traditional beach day. When you’ve had enough sea and sand, escape back to the modern world at the nearby restaurants and shops.
Coronado Beach, San Diego
The mica-rich sand at this Southern California beach sparkles in the sunlight, giving the shoreline a regal appearance. Fittingly, the Hotel del Coronado, which overlooks the beach, has hosted kings and other royalty over its more than century-long history. While relaxing on the fine sand, admire its stately Victorian architecture.
For even more scenery, wait for low tide, when a sunken ship is viewable offshore. There are also beautiful sunsets in the evening.
Gulf Shores Public Beach, Alabama
Pristine white sand contrasts with striking blue-green water at this Gulf Coast shoreline, making for a dramatic sight. Add in the picturesque palm trees, and it’s no wonder Gulf Shores is among the most iconic of American beaches.
Join in a game of volleyball at one of the many available nets. When you’re ready to cool off, enjoy calm waters whose stillness is in part thanks to the relative lack of wind here. A boardwalk as well as restaurants and shops are nearby, ensuring you’ll have plenty to do.
Ocean City Beach, Maryland
Opened in 1902, the three-mile boardwalk that runs along Ocean City Beach has everything that encompasses a quintessential American summer vacation. Ice cream shops, restaurants, arcades, mini-golf courses—it’s all here, even a Ferris wheel.
As for the beach itself, it’s known as a surfing destination, and there are plenty of surf shops along the boardwalk ready to equip you with all the gear you need. If sunbathing is what you’re after, there is ample space to set up along the 10 miles of white sand.
Poipu Beach, Hawaii
Hawaii has something of an unfair advantage over other US states when it comes to beaches. You could pick any number of Hawaiian beaches for this list, but Poipu stands out. Two small coves divided by a sand bar constitute this crescent-shaped shoreline. While some sections of Poipu are popular among surfers, windsurfers, and bodyboarders, other parts, thanks to an offshore sandbar, have only gentle waves.
If you’re unsure of where to plop down, no worries. Walking up and down the sunny beach while enjoying views is Kauai’s stunning southern coastline is a blissful activity unto itself.
Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
It’s hard to go wrong across North Carolina’s more than 300 miles of accessible coastline, but if you have to choose one sandy destination, make it Wrightsville Beach.
Reachable from the mainland via a drawbridge, Wrightsville has all the elements of a classic beach town. Learn to surf, paddleboard, or kayak in the Atlantic waters, then dry off while flying a kite on the warm sands. Spend a relaxing day sprawled on the beach or casting a line off the pier, then revel the night away at the many nearby bars. Beachside hotels mean you never have to go far.