Summer is the perfect time to head out to the beach, soak up some sun, and relax in the cool ocean breeze. The United States is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, from sandy beaches to rocky shores and isolated island retreats. From the vibrant coastline of Florida to the stunning cliffs of California, here are 20 of the best beaches to explore this summer, with something for every kind of beachgoer.
1. Maui, Hawaii (Wailea Beach)
Golden sand, gentle waves, and a lush backdrop make Wailea feel like your own slice of paradise. It’s peaceful, luxurious, and the kind of beach that invites you to linger a little longer.
2. Clearwater Beach, Florida
Soft, powdery sand and calm Gulf waters make this beach a family favorite. With walkable shops, playful sunsets, and a breezy boardwalk, it’s perfect for those slow summer days that stretch on and on.
3. South Beach, Miami, Florida
Bold, colorful, and buzzing with life, South Beach is where beach days meet nightlife. If you love people-watching, ocean dips, and vibrant energy, this iconic Miami spot checks all the boxes.
4. Kailua Beach, Hawaii
Quiet, calm, and kissed by turquoise waves, Kailua is a dream for kayakers, paddleboarders, and beach lovers who crave serenity. It’s less touristy and totally worth the visit.
5. Siesta Key Beach, Florida
Ranked as one of the top beaches in the United States, Siesta Key boasts soft, powdery white sand. It’s a gentle, easygoing beach that’s perfect for families or anyone wanting to relax under the Florida sun. Its soft waves and shallow waters make it the ideal family and beginner-friendly beach for swimmers of all abilities.
6. Santa Monica Beach, California
Santa Monica offers the best of both worlds: beachy calm with a touch of city flair. Stroll the boardwalk, visit the pier, or just lounge in the sun with an iced coffee in hand.
7. Cape Cod, Massachusetts (Race Point Beach)
Wide open dunes, salty breezes, and a peaceful, untouched feel—Race Point is a quiet Cape Cod retreat. It’s perfect for nature lovers and anyone looking for a peaceful escape, with opportunities for wildlife watching and beautiful ocean views. Bring a book, watch for seals, and let the waves do their thing.
8. Laguna Beach, California
Cliffside views, tide pools, and a creative coastal vibe; Laguna is laid-back with a touch of artsy charm. It’s a great spot for wandering, wave-watching, and catching golden hour.
9. Boca Grande, Florida
For a laid-back beach experience, Boca Grande is a hidden gem. This beach is all charm. Think uncrowded beaches, seashells galore, and a sleepy old-Florida vibe. It’s perfect if you love lighthouses, long beach walks, and quiet afternoons and is famous for its shelling and the historic Gasparilla Island Lighthouse.
10. Cannon Beach, Oregon
Famous for its towering Haystack Rock and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Cannon Beach in Oregon offers a scenic and tranquil retreat. It’s a great spot for walking, photography, and enjoying the stunning coastal landscape. It’s dramatic and moody in the best way, and is known for Haystack Rock and misty magic. Pack a sweater, bring your camera, and get ready to feel inspired.
11. Honolulu, Hawaii (Waikiki Beach)
Waikiki is a classic—gentle waves, swaying palms, and sunset views that stop you in your tracks. It’s ideal for first-time surfers, city explorers, and anyone craving a tropical escape.
12. Coronado Central Beach, California
Wide sandy shores, calm surf, and that iconic red-roofed hotel—it’s postcard-perfect. Great for families or beachgoers who love a little charm with their sunshine. (Honorable mention: Just 30 minutes away from these beautiful shores is another beach, La Jolla Cove. Known for its cliffs, tide pooling, basking sea lions, and out-of-this-world sunsets, it’s sure to dazzle!)
13. Outer Banks, North Carolina (Nags Head)
Quiet and full of natural beauty, Nags Head is perfect for those low-key beach days. Fly a kite, dig your toes in the sand, and soak up that peaceful Outer Banks energy.
14. Tybee Island, Georgia
Tybee’s relaxed, Southern charm is everything. Close to Savannah but a world away in feel, it’s all about slow mornings, calm waves, and a hint of nostalgia.
15. Gulf Shores, Alabama
Warm waters, wide beaches, and a super family-friendly vibe. Gulf Shores is a great spot for dolphin-watching, sandcastle-building, or just doing absolutely nothing.
16. Big Sur, California (Pfeiffer Beach)
It’s perfect for those who enjoy a more rugged, natural beach experience with stunning views. Tucked between cliffs with purple-tinged sand, Pfeiffer Beach is pure California magic. It’s wild, gorgeous, and a little off the beaten path, just the way we like it.
17. Portsmouth, New Hampshire (Rye Beach)
Quiet, charming, and dotted with coastal cottages, Rye Beach is a sweet New England escape. It’s great for a peaceful beach day with cool breezes and no crowds.
18. Alki Beach, Seattle, Washington
Urban but peaceful, Alki Beach offers skyline views, breezy walks, and a laid-back Seattle feel. It’s perfect for a beach picnic followed by a stop at a cozy café.
19. Amelia Island, Florida
With peaceful beaches and historic charm, Amelia Island feels like a slower, softer kind of escape. Think shaded porches, local shops, and lots of quiet coastline.
20. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts (South Beach)
Simple, stunning, and perfect for a long beach walk or a late-afternoon picnic. South Beach has that breezy island feel that invites you to fully unwind and stay awhile.
Conclusion
From the sparkling beaches of Florida to California’s dramatic cliffs, the United States offers an incredible variety of beaches to find this summer. For a peaceful escape, an exciting adventure, or a lively family vacation, there’s a beach that’s perfect for you. So grab the sunscreen, grab the beach towel, and get ready to enjoy some of America’s best beach destinations this summer!
Disclaimer: Travel tips, itineraries, and destination recommendations are based on personal experiences and public information available at the time of writing. Conditions can change, and readers are encouraged to do their own research and verify current travel regulations, safety guidelines, and entry requirements before planning any trips.