There’s just so much stuff to see and do in the USA! From the fun cities to visit, epic national parks, to the stunning islands; there are enough things to do see to last you decades. Plus, on top of that, it probably comes as no surprise that there are some of the best beaches in the USA that are dotted all across the country, too?
Honestly, they’re incredible and perfect places for any beach-bum wanting some time at the shore.
Now, as I said, the totally vast range of sights to see here means that beach time might seem harder to prioritise when you’re already cramming in so many of the must-see places in the USA.
Though, I personally think you it’s important to have some chilled and totally relaxed days on a trip, too. This is where those stunning beaches come in!
Anyway, with that in mind, take a look at some of the best beaches in the USA to explore whilst you’re here. Have the best time.
1.) Clearwater Beach, Florida
Often voted as one of the best beaches in the USA, Clearwater Beach is a totally stunning area to stay whilst on the west coast of Florida. Honestly, we loved the beach area so much and there’s a heap of tasty bars and restaurants to stop off at after a day on the shore.
Also, if you fancy some time away from the crowds, pop over to Caladesi Island by boat. We headed here for a day and the beaches are stunning. Also, there’s a load of trails across the island which are totally stunning, too.
Afterwards, make sure to pop south towards St Pete’s for more of a city-vibe, too.
They have a really cool street art scene, cool bars and some gorgeous places to stay.
We rocked up to the Don Cesar and stayed a few nights here; it was amazing.
Read more: Exploring Clearwater in Florida
2.) Venice and Caspersen Beaches, Venice, Florida
the shores of Venice and Caspersen are easily one of the best beaches in the USA.
Honestly, Venice Beach is great for families, a small section of the beach is dog-friendly and you can even dig for prehistoric sharks’ teeth here. Be sure to eat at Sharky’s, right on the beach.
For a more chilled and quiet area, wander a bit further south to Caspersen Beach. Here, the focus is more on nature and serenely soaking up the sun. Have fun.
Read more: Best places to visit in Florida
3.) Hanauma Bay, Honolulu, Hawaii
For some of the best snorkelling, head to Hanauma Bay in Honolulu. It’s one incredible area of Hawaii to visit and possibly one of the most popular, too.
Formed from a volcanic crater that filled up with seawater, the Bay is known for its marine wildlife diversity. Over 400 species of ocean creatures can be seen here, such as butterflyfish, sea turtles and dolphins.
There some little stalls renting out snorkelling gear, too. This means there’s no excuse to dive right in!
Read more: Best things to do in Honolulu
4.) La Jolla Cove, California
Part of the La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, this small but stunning beach is lovely for a little pit stop as part of a water trip around California.
Plus, it’s one of the best beaches in the USA to visit if you love seals. They’re everywhere!
This all being said, the beach can get crowded and it is quite small. So, if that’s not your vibe, head on over to some other beautiful places in California.
Oh, and don’t forget to visit all the other best beaches in California, too. Truth be told, you’re kinda spoilt for choice in the state.
Read more: Best places in California to visit
5.) Cannon Beach, Oregon
Not far from the city of Portland is a ruggedly beautiful Pacific Coast beach that’s easily one of the best beaches in the USA to visit. Once here, keep your eyes peeled for the iconic Haystack Rock. It’s a well-known landmark that rises, a whopping, 235 feet (72 m) above the ocean floor.
This quaint Oregon beach is great for those looking for tidal pools (pools of water in the rocks which are great for swimming in) as these are common here and it’s a perfect place to explore the dramatic nature of this area of the USA.
6.) North and South Padre Island, Texas
These two stunning beaches of North and South Padre Island couldn’t be more different.
You see, South Padre Island is known for lots of partying when spring-breakers flock here. This area also has one of the biggest beach bars in Texas, too (Clayton’s).
Further north, along the same stretch of the barrier islands, you’ll find a much calmer scene at North Padre.
North Padre Island is more focused on nature and a wildlife centre, too. Both beaches are naturally beautiful and play host to a whole variety of water sports.
This all means you’ll find at least one of these beaches that you love most. Both are very different; but lovely.
Read more: Best beaches in Texas to visit
7.) Assateague Beach, Assateague Island, Virginia and Maryland
Assateague Island has some of the best beaches in the USA, especially when they stretch for over 37 miles (60 km).
Known more for its outdoor recreational activities, this beach is best for kayaking, beach camping, and horse riding. There are also 300 wild horses found at this beach, too.
It’s totally gorgeous to see and well worth visiting when in the region.
Read more: Best things to do in Maryland
8.) Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Empire, Michigan
There are a whopping 65 miles (105 km) of beaches to explore if you’re visiting Empire, Michigan. The shoreline is huge and without any sea salt too.
Located just north of the city, Sleeping Bear Dunes offers spectacular views of nature and Lake Michigan from the massive sand dunes.
Towering 450 feet (137 m) above Lake Michigan, this place will certainly make you forget you’re in Michigan.
9.) Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Beach, Maui, Hawaii
With so many stunning beaches in Hawaii, it can be hard to figure out which ones are the best, right?
That being said, there are loads of places on the island of Maui that you really shouldn’t miss. This is especially true with the best beaches in the USA to explore.
Now, there’s a heap of white sandy beaches, but that being said, there are a few black volcanic gems to visit, too.
Once here, you’ll find freshwater caves, ancient burial grounds and stunning shorelines. It’s gorgeous.
Read more: Best things to do in Maui
10.) Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island, Georgia
Consistently voted as one of the most romantic beaches in the country, Driftwood Beach offers stunning views of the shoreline dotted with ancient driftwood.
Located on Jekyll Island on the southern coast of Georgia, this beach is open all year and is also pet-friendly. If you are visiting from the US, you could take your dog along for the adventure.
Read more: Best places in Georgia to visit
11.) South Beach, Miami, Florida
Seeing the gorgeous Art Deco buildings is a must-see when looking for the best things to do in Miami.
However, Miami also has some stunning beaches. The powdery white sand makes it totally idyllic for a day at the beach. Plus, if you’re an early riser (or a later sleeper), you can catch some of the best sunrises here.
In any case, this is one place to come to in Miami when you’re in search of some seriously good fun.
Read more: Best things to do in Miami
12.) Sand Beach, Mount Desert Island, Maine
Not far from Bar Harbor, located on Mount Desert Island, is Sand Beach. It’s a 290-yard (265 m) long stretch of beach between rocky outcroppings that’s totally gorgeous for a day at the beach.
You see, Sand Beach is one of the few places safe for swimming in Acadia National Park and offers stunning New England beach views.
When you’re here, be sure to keep an eye out for tide pools and sea birds, too. Or, just head into the surf and enjoy it.
Read more: Fun cities in the USA to visit
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