20 Best Beaches in the U.S. For Your Next Coastal Getaway

To help, we've compiled the best beaches in the U.S., catering to every type of beachgoer. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation or family fun, there's a perfect stretch of sand waiting for you.

Planning a beach vacation with the whole family? These family-friendly destinations prioritize safety, convenience and fun for all ages.

Address: 1 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767

Parking: There are numerous public parking lots and garages near the beach, including the South Beach Parking Plaza and the Pier 60 parking lot. Prices vary depending on the location and time of year. Street parking is also available, but it can be limited, especially during peak season.

Entrance cost: Free

Clearwater Beach consistently ranks among the top beaches in the U.S., and for good reason. With shallow waters and an abundance of activities, it’s a paradise for families. Kids can build sandcastles and spot dolphins playing offshore, while parents will appreciate the clean facilities, lifeguard presence and the lively atmosphere of Pier 60, where you can find street performers and craft vendors. 

Beyond the beautiful beach itself, Clearwater Beach offers a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, shops and entertainment options within walking distance. This makes it easy to grab a quick bite, find souvenirs or enjoy a family dinner after a day in the sun. 

Address: Anna Maria Island spans several miles, but a central point is Anna Maria City Pier: 100 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216.

Parking: There are some public parking areas near the beaches, and street parking is available in some residential areas. 

Entrance cost: Free

Anna Maria Island is a perfect choice for families if you want a more laid-back, old-Florida beach experience. Located just south of Tampa Bay, this barrier island offers miles of beach and clear waters to enjoy. It also enjoys a more relaxed, small-town vibe, making it ideal for a quieter getaway. 

Anna Maria Island is composed of three distinct cities: Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach. Families can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding. There are also several parks, nature preserves and opportunities for wildlife viewing. With its free trolley service, getting around the island is easy and convenient, which those with young children will appreciate. 

Address: Ocean Blvd, Coronado, CA 92118 (Central Beach stretches along Ocean Boulevard)

Parking: Limited street parking is available along Ocean Boulevard and surrounding streets; paid parking lots near the Hotel del Coronado and other areas of the island are available. 

Entrance cost: Free

Coronado Central Beach, with its iconic Hotel del Coronado backdrop, is a quintessential California beach experience. The beach is known for its gentle waves, making it ideal for swimming and playing in the surf, and the sand has a unique sparkle due to the mineral mica. 

Coronado Beach offers a charming small-town atmosphere with shops, restaurants and parks within easy walking distance. This makes it convenient to grab a bite to eat, rent bikes or explore the local area, including the historic Hotel del Coronado. 

Address: Destin Harbor Boardwalk: 1 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541. 

Parking: Varies by beach access point. There are public parking lots and some street parking available for most beach accesses. 

Entrance cost: Free

Located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, Destin is known for its stunning beaches and blue-green waters. Destin’s shores offer the perfect playground for families, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles and playing in the waves. Destin is also known as "The World's Luckiest Fishing Village" if you fancy a fishing charter.

Destin offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, including water parks, dolphin cruises and the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, where you can find shops, restaurants and entertainment. The combination of beautiful beaches, clear waters and numerous activities makes Destin a popular choice for families. 

Address: Beach Haven is a borough on Long Beach Island, but a central point could be considered near the Bay Village area: Bay Ave, Beach Haven, NJ 08008. 

Parking: Street parking is available, but it is often metered and limited. There are also some paid parking lots in the town.

Entrance cost: Beach badges are required for people ages 13+. Prices include daily ($10), weekly ($20) or seasonal ($40).

Beach Haven, located on Long Beach Island, New Jersey, offers a classic, family-friendly Jersey Shore experience. With its wide sandy beaches and charming Victorian architecture, Beach Haven provides a nostalgic beach vacation atmosphere filled with swimming, sunbathing and playing beach games. 

Here, you’ll find plenty of activities to choose from beyond the beach, including mini golf, arcades and the Long Beach Island Historical Museum. The town's historic charm adds to its appeal, where you can explore quaint shops and amusement areas like Fantasy Island Amusement Park, making it a well-rounded vacation spot.

If you’re after more than just sunbathing and relaxation, these beaches offer opportunities for adventure and water sports. From surfing world-class waves to exploring vibrant coral reefs, these destinations are perfect for adrenaline junkies and water enthusiasts of all skill levels. 

Address: Waikiki Beach stretches along Kalakaua Avenue in Honolulu. A central point is near the Duke Kahanamoku statue: Kalakaua Ave & Kuhio Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815.

Parking: There are public parking garages, hotel parking and some limited street parking available. Using public transportation or walking is often recommended to avoid parking hassles.

Entrance cost: Free

If you’re looking for the best beaches in Honolulu, look no further than Waikiki Beach. With its iconic Diamond Head backdrop and consistent waves, this beach is a world-renowned destination for surfing and other water sports, making it one of the most popular beaches in the U.S. You’ll find both beginner-friendly peaks and more challenging swells, so it caters to surfers of all levels. 

Beyond surfing, visitors can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, outrigger canoeing, snorkeling and diving in the clear turquoise waters. The bustling beachfront offers numerous rental shops, making it easy to find equipment and lessons.

Address: South Beach stretches along Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue and Washington Avenue in Miami Beach, Florida. A central point could be considered near 10th Street and Ocean Drive.

Parking: Street parking is limited and often metered. There are public parking garages and valet services available, but prices can be high, especially during peak season and weekends.

Entrance cost: Free

South Beach, Miami, is more than just a beach; it's a vibrant cultural hub and a playground for those seeking excitement both on and off the sand. While the beautiful white sand and turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and sunbathing, South Beach is also known for its energetic atmosphere, Art Deco architecture and lively nightlife. 

Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing and paddle boarding. The consistent waves also provide opportunities for surfing, though they are generally smaller than those found on the West Coast. 

Address: Surfrider Beach (Malibu Lagoon State Beach): 23200 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265 or El Matador State Beach: 32350 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Parking: There are limited parking lots at state beaches, and street parking is often restricted. Utilize ridesharing or public transportation to avoid the parking hassle. 

Entrance cost: Free

Malibu, synonymous with California's surfing culture, offers a variety of beaches perfect for adventure and water sports. From the iconic waves of Surfrider Beach at Malibu Lagoon State Beach to the more secluded coves of El Matador State Beach, Malibu provides opportunities for surfers of all skill levels, as well as kayakers, stand-up paddle boarders and divers. 

The dramatic cliffs and rocky outcrops create a picturesque backdrop for any water-based activity. The consistent waves, particularly during the fall and winter months, draw surfers from around the world. Beyond the surfing scene, you’ll find beautiful stretches of coastline perfect for exploring tide pools, hiking along coastal trails and enjoying the natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

Address: 114 Light House Rd, Ocracoke, NC 27960 (near the Ocracoke Lighthouse)

Parking: Parking is available at various beach access points along the island's coast. There are also free parking areas in Ocracoke Village.

Entrance cost: Free for access to the Ocracoke Island beaches, but you’ll pay a fee to use the ferry to get to the island if you’re traveling by car. 

Ocracoke Island, part of the Outer Banks of North Carolina, offers a more remote and natural beach experience perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility. Accessible only by ferry, Ocracoke boasts miles of undeveloped shoreline and stunning natural beauty, and the lack of commercial development contributes to a peaceful environment. 

The island's location also makes it a great spot for kayaking, paddleboarding and exploring the surrounding waters and inlets. You can also explore nature trails, visit the historic Ocracoke Lighthouse or learn about the island's rich maritime history.

Address: Huntington Beach Pier: 1 Main St, Huntington Beach, CA 92648.

Parking: Parking is available at various lots and along the street near the beach.

Entrance cost: Free

Known as Surf City USA, Huntington Beach is a quintessential Southern California beach town in Orange County and a haven for surfers and beach lovers. Surfing is the main draw here, with numerous surf schools and rental shops catering to all skill levels. Beyond surfing, visitors can enjoy swimming, beach volleyball and biking along the scenic beachfront path. 

Huntington Beach also offers a lively downtown area with shops, restaurants and entertainment options. The Huntington Beach Pier is a popular spot for fishing, strolling and enjoying panoramic ocean views. If you’re seeking adventure and a classic California beach vibe, this is one of the best U.S. beaches to consider. 

Address: 526 Kawailoa Rd, Kailua, HI 96734

Parking: There are several parking lots available at Kailua Beach Park or street parking in the surrounding residential areas. 

Entrance cost: Free

Kailua Beach, located on the windward coast of Oahu, is a paradise for various water activities. The calm waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and windsurfing. The consistent trade winds also make it a popular spot for kiteboarding. The scenic beauty of the Ko'olau Range as a backdrop adds to its appeal.

The adjacent Kailua Beach Park provides picnic areas, restrooms and showers, making it a convenient spot for a day at the beach. The combination of beautiful scenery, calm waters and various water sports makes Kailua Beach the perfect spot for a more laid-back Hawaiian beach experience.

If you’re seeking tranquility and escape from the crowds, these secluded beaches offer a peaceful retreat where you can expect natural beauty, fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere. 

Address: Cannon Beach, OR 97110 (general area)

Parking: Parking is available at various public lots and along the streets in Cannon Beach. 

Entrance cost: Free

Cannon Beach is a breathtakingly beautiful and relatively secluded beach on the Oregon Coast. The rugged coastline and stunning rock formations create a dramatic and peaceful atmosphere. While it can get busier during peak season, especially near Haystack Rock, the vastness of the beach makes it possible to find quieter spots for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty.  

Beyond the iconic Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach offers tide pools teeming with marine life, hiking trails with stunning ocean views and a charming town with art galleries, shops and restaurants.

Address: About 70 miles west of Key West, Florida. The primary access point is Garden Key, where Fort Jefferson is located.

Parking: There is no parking available on the Dry Tortugas as it is only accessible by boat or seaplane. Visitors typically park in Key West and take the ferry or seaplane to the park.

Entrance cost: $15 for people ages 15+

Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote cluster of islands about 70 miles west of Key West that offers a truly secluded beach experience. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the isolation of the Dry Tortugas contributes to its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.  

Here, visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling and diving in the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the islands. The park is also home to Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century fort that adds history to the beach experience. This park is also a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Address: Key islands include San Juan Island, Orcas Island and Lopez Island, with various beach access points on each island. A popular spot on San Juan Island is Lime Kiln State Park: 1567 Westside Rd, Friday Harbor, WA 98250.

Parking: Parking varies depending on the specific beach access point or park. Some areas have designated parking lots, while others offer limited roadside parking.

Entrance cost: Free

The San Juan Islands are located in Puget Sound of Washington State, which offers a unique and secluded beach experience characterized by stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife and make the perfect day trip from Seattle. 

While not known for expansive sandy beaches like some other destinations on this list, the San Juans boast rocky coves, pebble beaches and hidden gems perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. These islands are ideal for kayaking, whale watching (especially orcas), hiking and exploring tide pools.  

Address: 7206 National Seashore Ln, Berlin, MD 21811.

Parking: Parking is available at various lots within Assateague Island National Seashore. There are also parking options at Assateague State Park, which is adjacent to the National Seashore on the Maryland side.

Entrance cost: $25

This barrier island shared by Maryland and Virginia offers a unique and natural beach experience known for its wild horses and undeveloped coastline, and is also ideal if you’re seeking beautiful beach campsites. 

The Maryland side of Assateague Island National Seashore provides miles of pristine beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing and surf fishing. The island's most famous residents, the wild horses, roam freely, adding a touch of magic to your visit. You can also explore diverse ecosystems like salt marshes, maritime forests and coastal bays.

Address: 9394 State Highway 361, Corpus Christi, TX 78418

Parking: There are various parking areas within Mustang Island State Park, including parking near the beach, camping areas and boat ramps.

Entrance cost: $7 for people ages 13+

Located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, Mustang Island State Park offers a natural and relaxing beach experience with miles of undeveloped shoreline. The park's five-mile stretch of beach and the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico make it a great spot for families with young children. The park also offers opportunities for kayaking, birdwatching and exploring the diverse coastal ecosystems.

Mustang Island State Park provides camping facilities, making it a great option if you want to spend more time immersed in nature. The park's natural beauty and relatively secluded atmosphere make it a perfect destination for a relaxing beach getaway in Texas.

These beaches offer the perfect balance of natural beauty, amenities and activities for a well-rounded beach vacation. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure or a bit of both, these destinations offer something for everyone.

Address: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761.

Parking: There are some public parking lots and parking garages associated with the resorts and Whalers Village. Valet parking is also available at many resorts. 

Entrance cost: Free

Kaanapali Beach is a world-renowned destination offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, luxurious resorts and exciting activities. The iconic Pu'u Keka'a (Black Rock) at the north end of the beach is a popular spot for cliff diving and snorkeling, and the consistent waves provide opportunities for surfing and boogie boarding.

Beyond the golden beach, Kaanapali’s vibrant atmosphere offers numerous resorts, restaurants, shops and golf courses to keep you entertained — and don’t miss the cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock, which is a must-see. 

Address: 112 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957.

Parking: Parking is available at various beach access points and parks on Sanibel Island. 

Entrance cost: Free

Sanibel Island, located on Florida's Gulf Coast, is a sheller's paradise where nature lovers can enjoy a relaxed beach experience. Thanks to the island’s unique east-west orientation, you’ll find a large accumulation of seashells on its shores, and the island's emphasis on conservation has created a pristine natural environment with abundant wildlife, like birds, dolphins and manatees.

Here, you can explore nature trails, visit the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, and bike along scenic paths. The laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty make it a great location for a nature-focused beach vacation. 

Address: 948 Beach Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242

Parking: Siesta Key Beach has a large public parking lot, and there is limited street parking available in the surrounding area.

Entrance cost: Free

Wondering where to find the best beaches in Sarasota? Check out Siesta Key Beach, consistently ranked among the best beaches in America. The powdery white sand here is made up of almost pure quartz, and stays cool on even the hottest days. The beach also offers amenities like lifeguards, concessions and volleyball courts, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for all.

You’ll find plenty of nearby shops, restaurants and entertainment options in Siesta Key Village. The sunsets here are particularly stunning and often draw crowds to the beach each evening.

Address: The Outer Banks spans a long stretch of coastline. A key location would be Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: 46375 Lighthouse Rd, Buxton, NC 27920

Parking: There are public parking lots at many beaches and attractions.

Entrance cost: Free

The Outer Banks is a string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina offering a diverse range of beach experiences, from wild and undeveloped stretches of sand to lively beach towns. The Outer Banks is known for its strong winds, and is a popular spot for kiteboarding, windsurfing and surfing. 

The Outer Banks offers many attractions and activities, including the Wright Brothers National Memorial, Jockey's Ridge State Park (home to the tallest active sand dune system in the Eastern United States) and plenty of shops, restaurants and museums in surrounding towns. Many areas are also pet-friendly, making it a great option for a pet-friendly vacation. 

Ready to explore the best beaches in the U.S.? AAA is here to help you plan every detail of your perfect coastal escape or help you find the top vacation spots in the U.S. 

As a AAA member, you can take advantage of exclusive travel deals, discounts on hotels and car rentals, and expert travel planning resources to make your beach vacation seamless and unforgettable.