20 Best Beaches In USA: Top Coastal Destinations You Must Visit

Many people look for the best beaches in the USA to find great spots for relaxation, swimming, and outdoor fun. The country offers a wide variety of beaches, from sandy shores to rocky coasts, each with its own unique appeal.

A beautiful American beach with clear turquoise water, white sand, palm trees, and people enjoying the sun and ocean.

The 20 best beaches in the USA bring together top choices based on beauty, sand quality, and visitor experience. These beaches attract travelers who want a memorable day by the water, whether for a family trip or a quiet retreat.

1) Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island, Georgia

A sandy beach with large driftwood logs scattered along the shore and calm ocean waves under a blue sky.

Driftwood Beach is known for its unique landscape filled with weathered driftwood and twisted tree trunks. It offers a quiet atmosphere for visitors who enjoy nature and photography.

The beach stretches along Jekyll Island’s coast with sandy shores and crashing waves. It is a popular spot for those looking to experience a less crowded, scenic beach on the Georgia coast. Driftwood Beach ranks among the top beaches in the USA for its natural beauty. See more about Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island.

2) Lanikai Beach, Kailua, Hawaii

A white sandy beach with clear turquoise water, palm trees, and distant islands under a blue sky.

Lanikai Beach is known for its clear turquoise water and soft white sand. It is located in Kailua on the island of Oahu.

The beach is calm and great for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

It offers beautiful views of the Mokulua Islands offshore. Lanikai Beach is often less crowded than other popular beaches in Hawaii.

It was named the best beach in the US and ranks highly worldwide for its natural beauty and peaceful setting. More details can be found at Lanikai Beach reviews.

3) Siesta Beach, Florida

A sunny beach with white sand, turquoise water, palm trees, and people enjoying the shore.

Siesta Beach is known for its soft, white sand made of nearly pure quartz. This sand stays cool even under the hot Florida sun. The beach offers clear waters and a calm atmosphere.

TripAdvisor named Siesta Beach the best beach in the US and fourth best worldwide. It is located on Siesta Key near Sarasota. Visitors enjoy walking, swimming, and relaxing there. TripAdvisor’s ranking highlights its wide popularity.

4) Nantucket Beach, Massachusetts

A wide sandy beach with gentle waves, beach houses, dunes, and seagulls under a clear blue sky.

Nantucket Beach is known for its calm waters and scenic views. It offers several spots like Jetties Beach and Surfside Beach that attract many visitors.

The beaches are clean and well-maintained. They provide a relaxing atmosphere with gentle waves, suitable for families and swimmers.

Nantucket also has quieter beaches like Madaket Beach for those who want less crowded areas. It is a popular destination on the East Coast for beachgoers.

More details are available about Nantucket’s beaches on this Tripadvisor Nantucket Beaches guide.

5) Huntington Beach, California

A sunny Huntington Beach in California showing sandy shore, ocean waves, surfers, palm trees, and a pier extending into the water.

Huntington Beach is known as Surf City USA. It has a long, wide shoreline that is popular for both surfing and family activities. The beach offers good waves and plenty of space to spread out.

Visitors often enjoy the pier, which provides great views and fishing spots. The area around the beach has shops and restaurants for a full day experience. More details about the area can be found on the Surf City USA beaches guide.

6) Cape Cod Beaches, Massachusetts

A peaceful Cape Cod beach with golden sand, gentle waves, dune grasses, and a clear blue sky.

Cape Cod has many beaches known for their natural beauty and variety. Race Point Beach and Herring Cove Beach are popular spots for visitors who enjoy both calm waters and waves.

Mayflower Beach offers gentle tides, making it good for families. The Cape Cod National Seashore protects several beaches with scenic views and clean sand.

More information on these beaches can be found at the 15 best Cape Cod beaches.

7) Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

Waikiki Beach in Hawaii with sandy shore, palm trees, clear blue water, and Diamond Head crater in the background.

Waikiki Beach is a popular spot on Oahu known for its lively atmosphere. It offers clear waters ideal for swimming and surfing. Visitors can take surfing lessons right on the beach.

The stunning view of Diamond Head adds to its appeal. It is a favorite for both beginners and experienced beachgoers. More details about Waikiki Beach can be found on a beach travel guide.

8) Panama City Beach, Florida

A sunny beach with white sand, turquoise water, palm trees, and a few people enjoying the shoreline under a blue sky.

Panama City Beach is known for its soft white sand and clear, shallow waters. It is a popular spot for families because of its safe swimming areas and easy beach access.

The beach also offers many activities such as fishing, boating, and beachfront dining. Its ranking as one of the best beaches shows its appeal as a reliable and enjoyable destination Panama City Beach in top 25 Best Beaches in the U.S.

What Makes a Beach Stand Out

A beautiful American beach with clear turquoise water, white sand, palm trees, and people relaxing under colorful umbrellas on a sunny day.

Factors like stunning views, how easy it is to visit, and what services are available all shape a beach’s appeal. The combination of nature, crowd size, and practical features can create very different experiences for visitors.

Natural Beauty and Landscape

The look of a beach is key. Clear blue water, soft white sand, and natural surroundings like palm trees or cliffs add to its charm. Some beaches have unique features like coral reefs or unusual rock formations that attract nature lovers.

Wildlife and plant life also matter. Beaches near protected parks often offer more untouched scenery and cleaner water. The quality of the sand, how gentle or steep the shore is, and the presence of natural shade all affect the beach’s overall feel.

Popularity and Visitor Experience

A beach that draws lots of visitors often has lively energy, but this can mean crowds and fewer quiet spots. Some people enjoy busy beaches with plenty of activity, while others prefer more peaceful ones.

Visitor experience also depends on cleanliness, safety, and available services like lifeguards or rental gear. Clear signage and well-maintained paths make it easier for tourists to explore and enjoy the area.

Accessibility and Amenities

Easy access plays a big role. Beaches reachable by car, public transport, or short walks are more convenient. Parking availability, ramps for wheelchairs, and nearby facilities like bathrooms and picnic areas support varied visitor needs.

Amenities such as food stands, showers, and equipment rentals enhance comfort. Some top beaches balance natural beauty with good infrastructure, providing a hassle-free visit without losing their charm.

For examples of beaches that excel in these areas, check out the 25 Best Beaches in the United States.

Tips for Enjoying America’s Top Beaches

A sunny beach with people sunbathing, playing volleyball, swimming, and relaxing near palm trees and a lifeguard tower.

Beach visits require some planning to have a smooth and enjoyable experience. Knowing when to go and what to bring can make a big difference, especially at popular spots where conditions and crowds vary.

Best Times to Visit

The best times to visit beaches depend on location and weather patterns. For beaches in Hawaii like Poipu Beach, the spring and fall months offer warm water and fewer visitors. Coastal spots in California, such as Coronado Beach, are pleasant in late summer when the weather is dry and sunny.

Weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends. Early mornings or late afternoons provide cooler temperatures and softer light for photography. Visitors should also consider tides and local events that could affect beach access.

Packing Essentials

Packing the right items helps with comfort and safety. Sunscreen with high SPF, a wide-brim hat, and sunglasses protect against strong sun exposure. A reusable water bottle is necessary to prevent dehydration.

For long stays, a beach umbrella or sunshade provides shelter. Swimwear and quick-dry towels are practical. In areas with rocky shores or coral, water shoes can prevent injuries. Bringing a small first-aid kit and snacks can also improve the beach day.

Check local rules for items like grills, pets, or alcohol before packing.

Frequently Asked Questions

A sunny beach with golden sand, turquoise water, palm trees, and a few people enjoying the shoreline.

Many of the best beaches in the USA are known for their unique features, from calm waters and family activities to romantic settings and vibrant nightlife. Some beaches stand out for their natural beauty and calm atmosphere, while others are popular for specific states like Florida and beyond.

What are the most family-friendly beaches in the United States?

Siesta Beach in Florida is highly recommended for families due to its soft white sand and shallow, calm waters. Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island, Georgia, also offers safe spots for kids along with natural attractions that appeal to all ages.

Which U.S. beaches are considered the best for adult vacations?

Huntington Beach in California is ideal for adults looking for a lively atmosphere with surfing and nightlife. Lanikai Beach in Hawaii is quieter and perfect for adults wanting relaxation, clear waters, and scenic views without large crowds.

What are the top-rated beaches for couples in the U.S.?

Lanikai Beach in Hawaii consistently ranks as a top spot for couples, offering stunning sunrises and a peaceful setting. Nantucket Beach in Massachusetts is also favored for romantic strolls and charming coastal towns nearby.

Which beaches in Florida rank among the best in the country?

Siesta Beach is the standout in Florida, known nationwide for its powdery white sand and clear water. Other Florida beaches in national lists often include spots like Dry Tortugas National Park for those looking for unique experiences.

How do the best beaches in the USA compare to the best beaches worldwide?

Many U.S. beaches match global standards with diverse landscapes, from tropical islands in Hawaii to rugged coasts in California. They often combine beauty and amenities, but some global beaches may have warmer climates or more exotic wildlife.

What factors contribute to a beach being named the best in America?

Key factors include sand quality, water cleanliness, safety, accessibility, and available activities. Natural beauty like unique rock formations or clear waters also plays a big role, as well as local services such as accommodations and dining options.

More detailed lists and rankings can be found at the 27 Best Beaches in the U.S. for 2025.

20 Best Beaches in USA: Top Coastal Destinations You Must Visit