Best Beaches in the U.S. for 2025

When you think of the beach, you might envision escaping to a far-flung destination, but there are countless beautiful beaches with scenic sea views and top-notch amenities in the United States. There are prime shorelines in Hawaii, California and Florida and scores of options located in between. So, how do you prioritize which domestic beach (or beaches) to visit? To help you choose the sandy spot that's ideal for your next vacation, U.S. News considered factors like clean sands, pleasant waters and high-quality attractions to bring you the best U.S. beaches. Just don't forget your beach hat. Vote for your favorite coastlines below to help determine next year's ranking.

Siesta Key

With 8 miles of white sand to spread out on, this Florida barrier island off the coast of Sarasota was made for beach bums. Enjoy Siesta Key's laid-back atmosphere while relaxing on Crescent Beach, a secluded stretch of sand with an area for snorkeling. For more excitement, check out Siesta Beach, which boasts tennis and volleyball courts, a playground and concessions. Or, head to Turtle Beach for premier beachcombing opportunities. What's more, travelers can avoid costly parking fees by utilizing Siesta Key's free trolley service during their trip.

Maui

Travelers flock to Maui for its bounty of beautiful Hawaiian beaches. The expansive shores of Wailea Beach and Kā'anapali Beach are classics that shouldn't be missed, while smaller Napili Bay Beach and Ho'okipa Beach Park are better for those seeking a more low-key experience. Whatever your beach style, you cannot leave this Hawaiian island without visiting Wai'ānnapanapa State Park, a protected area that boasts striking black sands and lush tropical foliage throughout.

Honolulu - Oahu

Like the other Hawaii destinations on this list, Oahu is no stranger to picturesque shorelines. Waikīkī Beach is a top choice for its beginner surfing conditions and convenient location backed by plenty of resorts and restaurants. Waimea Bay Beach Park, which is located on O'ahu's northern coast, is popular among professional surfers for its 30-foot waves. For a calmer experience, head to Lanikai Beach on the island's east coast for small waves that allow for kayaking and paddleboarding. Plus, it's considered by many to be one of the island's prettiest beaches.

Kaua'i

Kaua'i's many wild, untouched landscapes are ideal for travelers who are looking for a one-of-a-kind beach vacation. For unforgettable views of the famous Nāpali coastline, hit up Polihale State Park, Makua Beach (aka Tunnels Beach) and Ke'e Beach. The crescent-shaped Hanalei Bay is a prime spot for watching the sunset, surfing and snorkeling. Meanwhile, Po'ipū Beach Park on the island's southern coast offers shallow waters that are perfect for families. Consider planning a summer trip for the best swimming conditions, as Kaua'i's waters can be dangerously rough in winter.

Gulf Shores

Alabama may not be known for its beaches, but sand seekers everywhere would be remiss not to experience the beauty of Gulf Shores. Home to the warm, emerald waters that the Gulf Coast is famous for, this town about 50 miles southeast of Mobile entices beachgoers year-round looking to sink their toes into its white quartz sand. Gulf Shores Main Public Beach offers convenient amenities like showers, volleyball courts and picnic pavilions, while Gulf State Park is home to 3-plus miles of uncrowded coastline and a public fishing pier.

Clearwater Beach

Stretching for approximately 3 miles along Florida's Gulf Coast, this barrier island is ideal for active travelers and relaxation seekers alike. There are plenty of opportunities for paddleboarding, parasailing, sunset cruising and kayaking. By the sand, there are shaded cabanas available for rent. Plus, the warm, calm water and playground area make Clearwater Beach perfect for families with young children. After a day at the beach, catch the free nightly sunset celebration at Pier 60, which is complete with street performers and local artisans.

Destin

Situated on the Florida Panhandle, Destin's thriving underwater population of fish like grouper and red snapper has earned it the title of the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village." But great fishing isn't the only reason to celebrate this seaside town – there is also a bevy of beautiful beaches to choose from. The Shore at Crystal Beach Park is a pristine spot for swimming and lounging, while Henderson Beach State Park and Grayton Beach State Park offer nature trails on top of powdery white sand shores. Crab Island is also a scenic and noteworthy slice of beach because it's a sandbar that's only accessible by boat.

Malibu

This famously beautiful coastal destination west of Santa Monica offers an array of sandy shorelines worth exploring. Zuma Beach extends for nearly 2 miles and features strong surfing waves and whale watching opportunities. Meanwhile, Surfrider Beach is one of the most popular spots for surfing and is conveniently located near the Malibu Pier. Just north of Zuma, El Matador State Beach offers striking views of cliff formations. Point Dume State Beach is also a worthwhile stop; if you're in the area, hike the short trail at the Point Dume Nature Preserve for picture-perfect vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding mountains.

Outer Banks

The beaches in North Carolina's Outer Banks span some 200 miles, meaning there is plenty of room for you and your family to spread out. The uncrowded shores at Hatteras Island are ideal for fishing and boating. Meanwhile, the beaches in Kitty Hawk and Kill Devil Hills offer optimal conditions for everything from sunbathing and swimming to surfing and skimboarding. The beach at Nags Head offers a pier for sunset watching while the beaches in Duck allow dogs to be off-leash year-round. Just keep in mind that access to Duck's beaches is limited to residents, their guests and vacation home renters.

Laguna Beach

Located about halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, Laguna Beach offers miles of unique coastal terrain, ranging from caves to tide pools to seaside bluffs. Main Beach, Laguna's most well-known shoreline, beckons to beachgoers with amenities like basketball and volleyball courts, a children's playground and public restrooms. Meanwhile, nature lovers will love Crystal Cove State Park's 3-plus miles of cliff-backed coastline and Heisler Park's elevated walking path that runs along the scenic beach. Laguna Beach also offers unique, varying surf conditions, and beaches like Brooks Street and Rockpile are favorites among surfers.

Pfeiffer Beach

This popular stretch of sand in the Big Sur region of California is one of the most beloved beaches in the state. Featuring tide pools and stunning rock formations – including the famous Keyhole Arch – Pfeiffer Beach sits a bit off the beaten path, but the drive is well worth the effort to enjoy the stunning views and secluded atmosphere. At the north end of the beach, travelers will discover another unique aspect of this stretch of shoreline – purple sand, the result of eroded manganese garnet that has washed down the creek to the beach.

Coronado Beach

Separated from downtown San Diego by San Diego Bay, Coronado Beach (aka Central Beach) stretches for nearly 2 miles along Southern California's Pacific Coast. With amenities like volleyball courts, restrooms, showers and year-round lifeguards, this golden shoreline is popular with families. The northern end of the beach is dog-friendly and the southern end is home to the iconic Hotel del Coronado, a historic hotel featured in the 1958 Marilyn Monroe film, "Some Like It Hot." When it's time to chow down, satisfy your hunger at one of the many restaurants lining Orange Avenue.

Sanibel Island

The picturesque beaches of Sanibel Island, Florida, fit the bill, whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a nature-filled trip or a family vacation. Spend some time searching for seashells (or "shelling," as the pros call it) along Bowman's Beach, or visit Lighthouse Beach Park for access to nearby nature trails and a scenic shoreline. There are also trails and picnic areas available at Gulfside City Beach Park. For superb swimming conditions, head to Tarpon Bay Beach.

Key West

Home to the southernmost point in the continental U.S., the most well-known island in the Florida Keys offers a casual yet eccentric getaway (check out Mallory Square's shops, bars and performers for a taste of the eclectic). The best beach in Key West is part of Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, which boasts clear turquoise water and great snorkeling opportunities. Smathers Beach, which is a smaller shoreline less than a mile long, offers a superb location in the heart of Key West and amenities like volleyball courts and water sports equipment rentals.

Assateague Island

This barrier island stretching across eastern Maryland and Virginia is famous for the wild horses that graze the beaches and trot along the sand. For a relaxing experience, head to North Beach and South Beach on the Assateague Island National Seashore, where you can easily waste away the day sunbathing and building sandcastles. If you're looking for something more active, the island offers plenty of beach activities including swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking. For the full Assateague experience, reserve a spot at one of the campgrounds (available on the Maryland side of Assateague Island) to spend time among the wild animals.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Sitting less than 5 miles south of Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea enchants travelers with its fairytale-like cottages and small-town charm. Spend your days relaxing on Carmel Beach, a dog-friendly stretch of sand bordered by coastal bluffs and cypress trees, or exploring the many boutiques and art galleries that line Ocean Avenue. For a more active beach day, head to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve to hike between its rugged beaches. In the evening, after enjoying one of Carmel's spectacular sunsets, head downtown for a romantic dinner with your beau.

Cannon Beach

The seemingly endless coastline of Cannon Beach, Oregon, boasts misty, enchanting views like no other. The Cannon Beach shoreline stretches 4 miles long and features tide pools filled with sea life, tufted puffin habitats and Haystack Rock – the beach's 235-foot-tall crown jewel rising out of the ocean. Ecola State Park is another worthwhile destination where travelers can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas and stunning views. Just note: The water on the Oregon coast is typically too cold and rough to swim in, no matter the time of year.

Amelia Island

Set on Florida's east coast, about 30 miles northeast of Jacksonville, Amelia Island is perfect for those seeking a quiet beach getaway. The area features 40-plus beach access points and 13 miles of beaches: At Amelia Island State Park, you can ride horses on the beach, and at Main Beach Park, you can relax on the soft sand and soak up some sun while the kids enjoy the playground or outdoor skate park. Main Beach Park also features volleyball courts, picnic areas and restrooms. Other outdoor activities you can enjoy while visiting Amelia Island include nature walks, biking and kayaking.

Half Moon Bay

Located about 30 miles south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is home to numerous noteworthy beaches, many of which are backed by massive cliffs that help maintain a secluded feel. Half Moon Bay State Beach – which is made up of four smaller shorelines called Francis, Venice, Dunes and Roosevelt beaches – is the main attraction. Also, Fitzgerald Marine Reserve and Pescadero State Beach are great spots to explore tide pools. Surfers' Beach, as one might guess, is one of the area's best spots for hanging ten. Surfers from all around the world are also drawn to Mavericks Beach, as it boasts the biggest surf break on the West Coast.

Monterey

Far from the hustle and bustle of Southern California's esteemed beaches, Monterey appeals to vacationers looking for a slower pace of life. Lovers Point Park and Beach are popular among surfers, and if you're traveling with kids, consider visiting Monterey State Beach to take advantage of its wide sandy shoreline and tide pools. Other can't-miss beaches include Del Monte Beach and Fort Ord Dunes State Park, which features towering sand dunes and terrific wildlife watching opportunities.

Bethany Beach

Tranquil and charming, Bethany Beach, Delaware, beckons to families looking to spread out on its roomy shoreline and stroll along its old-fashioned boardwalk, which features a bandstand and several shops and restaurants. One of the top beaches on the East Coast, Bethany Beach is beloved for its laid-back and quiet atmosphere, perfect for travelers who want to do nothing on vacation but lounge on the beach with a cold drink in hand. If you can tear yourself away from the beach, consider exploring the nearby waterways on a kayak tour.

Miami Beach

Miami Beach, Florida, caters to both party-hungry and relaxation-seeking beachgoers. You can spend your days soaking up some sun at Lummus Park on Ocean Drive – which is fitted with two outdoor gyms, a pavilion and multiple playgrounds and volleyball courts – or lounging on the quieter sands of Haulover Park Beach (but make note that clothing is optional on this stretch of Florida shoreline). After the sun sets, follow the buzzing nightlife to South Beach, which is known for its signature swaying palms and Art Deco architecture.

Cape May

The beaches of Cape May, New Jersey, are very family-friendly, with most offering close proximity to amenities like restrooms, accommodations and dining venues. In truth, there are almost too many beaches to count on the peninsula, but some favorites include aptly named Sunset Beach, quiet Cape May Point and The Cove, which welcomes surfers and sunbathers alike. If you plan on visiting between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, keep in mind that each person 12 and older must purchase a beach tag.

St. Petersburg, FL

St. Petersburg, Florida – known as the "Sunshine City" – is a reliable option for travelers seeking sun, sand and relaxation. St. Pete Beach, located about 10 miles southwest of downtown St. Petersburg, offers miles of shoreline perfect for water sports, lounging and picnicking, as well as several surf shops and dining venues to enjoy afterward. St. Petersburg also sits close to Fort De Soto Park, a 1,136-acre park with a quieter stretch of sand and ample bird-watching opportunities.

Hilton Head

The sand on Hilton Head, South Carolina's wide shorelines stands out for being fairly hard-packed, making it perfect for long beach bike rides. Though it's often overflowing with crowds, Coligny Beach Park remains one of the area's most popular options thanks to its ample amenities, which include outdoor showers, shaded gazebos and even free Wi-Fi for beachgoers. If you're seeking a local gem, try Driessen Beach Park, a less-crowded version of Coligny, or the wilder Mitchelville Beach, which is best for exploring rather than swimming.

Big Sur

Big Sur's rough waters make the beaches too dangerous for swimming, but the scenery in this California destination is bucket list-worthy. Don't miss the expansive Sand Dollar Beach, where beachgoers can search for washed-up sand dollars at low tide and surfers can ride the waves, and Andrew Molera State Park, which features a beach that connects to beautiful trails. Other stunning shorelines can be found at Garrapata State Park and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, which is home to the spectacular McWay Falls (Just note: the beach below the falls is closed to the public and can only be enjoyed from an overlook).

The Hamptons

Located roughly 100 miles northeast of New York City, The Hamptons is famous for serving as a respite for city slickers who need to cool off in summer. But this beach spot is filled with quality shorelines that will no doubt impress travelers who don't reside in the tristate area. First-timers should visit popular stretches of sand like Cupsogue Beach County Park in Westhampton Beach, Coopers Beach in Southampton and Main Beach in East Hampton.