Explore the best beach vacations in the US
From the rugged, rocky coastline of the Pacific Northwest to the tropical beaches of Puerto Rico and Hawaii, the United States has a wide range of diverse beach destinations. You’ll find beaches with white, golden, black, and pink sand, rough waves to gentle shallows, and rainforest backdrops to waterfront resorts, so you can have whatever type of beach retreat you wish. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly beach destinations with attractions and amenities, wild beaches with untamed landscapes and wildlife, or anything in between, you can find it all. Find out more about the best beach vacations in the US to plan your trip.
Best beaches in Maine for rugged beaches
Boasting an incredible rocky coastline and rich maritime history, Maine is an excellent destination for a beach retreat. You’ll find a variety of rugged beach areas for your stay, such as Sandy Beach in Acadia National Park and Crescent Beach State Park in Cape Elizabeth. If you have the kids, one of the best beaches in Maine for families is Old Orchard Beach, which has calm waters, soft sand, and a nearby amusement park with a historic pier.
Best beaches in Oregon for wild coastline
Oregon is home to a variety of beautiful Pacific Coast beaches with wild, windswept landscapes and plenty of opportunity for adventure. Oregon’s beaches offer something for everyone, from beachcombing and building sandcastles to tide pooling and surfing. Cannon Beach is one of the most popular places for a relaxing beach trip and sightseeing, but you can find remote beaches everywhere with a lot of local charm and appeal. If you want adventure and wildlife spotting, the Cape Kiwanda State Scenic Area offers one of the most scenic beaches in the state.
Best beaches in North Carolina for family-friendly beaches
One of the most popular beach destinations on the East Coast, North Carolina is home to family-friendly beaches on barrier islands that create a laid-back, small-town feel. The Outer Banks is one of the best beach areas in the state and offers open-sea beaches, charming beachfront parks, quaint towns and unique historic sites in places like Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head.
Best beaches in South Carolina for activities with the kids
Another popular East Coast destination, South Carolina is home to stunning beaches like Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach, a famed beach destination with numerous family-friendly attractions. If you stay in Myrtle Beach or Hilton Head, you’ll have pristine beaches with lifeguards, amenities, and traditional seaside attractions. If you prefer something more remote, places like Edisto Beach and Sullivan’s Island offer scenic beach areas with quiet waters and few crowds.
Best beaches in Puerto Rico for island beaches
With pristine gold- and white-sand beaches against emerald, azure, and crystal-blue waters, Puerto Rico is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. You’ll have a variety of beaches to choose from, such as the upscale beach areas of San Juan, the stylish beaches of Condado District, and the island beaches of Isla de Vieques and Culebra. Some of the best diving is found off the islands, but you can experience all manner of water sports at Puerto Rico’s beaches.
Best beaches in Florida for family fun
Boasting virtually endless coastline with stunning beaches on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, Florida is the ultimate in beach destinations. You can choose from the thrilling Miami and South Beach with their Latin influences and rich culture or the Gulf Coast with its spectacular sunsets, coastal parks, and family attractions. You can also visit Cocoa Beach, an Atlantic Coast beach that’s home to Cape Canaveral and close to many of Orlando’s theme parks.
Best beaches in Hawaii for watersports
Hawaii is an island paradise of diverse beaches and picturesque coastal landscapes. You’ll find everything from wide, quiet beaches with calm waters for families with children to secluded cove beaches for romantic couples to windswept beaches with rough seas for water sports and adventure. Some of the most incredible beaches in Hawaii include Waikiki Beach in Oahu, Polihale State Park in Kauai, Polihua Beach in Lanai, and Wailea Beach in Maui.