15 Best Beaches in the U.S.: A Highly Subjective List

Named after the father of modern surfing, this Waikiki beach is perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.

Located at the western end of Waikiki on the southern side of Oahu, Duke Kahanamoku Beach features calm water, a lagoon ideal for families, and clear water that reveals a dazzling array of sea life. It’s a great spot to soak up Hawaii’s beach culture and enjoy warm, hot days on white sand.

Set in the upscale town of Southampton, Coopers Beach offers wide, sandy beaches and a gentle surf that’s perfect for building sandcastles or simply relaxing. It’s nestled among historic mansions and offers beach access with amenities that scream vacation comfort.

With views of the Atlantic and an inviting stretch of coastline, it ranks among the most picturesque beaches on the East Coast.

This family-friendly beach on the Gulf Coast is beloved for its powdery white sand and shallow, calm water.

Located on Florida's Gulf Coast in Pinellas County, Clearwater Beach is ideal for water sports, fishing or just lounging. The sunsets here are showstoppers, and the town's nearby art galleries and resorts add extra sparkle to your beach getaway.

Cannon Beach isn’t your typical beach. With dramatic rock formations like Haystack Rock rising from the Pacific Ocean, this West Coast gem is known for its wild animals, dog-friendly vibes and misty charm. The surrounding pine trees and towering dunes make it feel like a real-life painting.

Just across the bay from downtown San Diego, Coronado Beach boasts stunning views and a wide, flat shore that glitters with mica.

This Southern California beach is popular with families, surfers and even wild animals like seabirds. Its small waves and beautiful scenery make it a top choice for a relaxed beach day on the West Coast.

If you want a vibrant beach scene, South Beach delivers. Known for its art deco vibes, lively crowd and clear water, it’s a favorite for those looking to combine fun, sun and surf. While the waves are small, the energy is big.

Situated on Cape Cod’s National Seashore, this beach is famed for its natural beauty and sand dunes. You might spot seals bobbing offshore. The barrier island location means it’s got a rugged, wind-swept charm that feels worlds away from city life.

Known for its art scene and dramatic coastline, Laguna Beach is a Southern California standout. The cliffs, coves and tide pools here offer more than your standard sandy beach. Whether you’re into exploring, surfing or simply soaking in the scenery, this beach has it all.

Wailea Beach offers luxury with a view. This beautiful beach is flanked by upscale resorts and features soft sand and gentle waves — perfect for snorkeling or a peaceful swim. The surrounding coast offers some of Hawaii’s most stunning scenery, from volcanic outcrops to lush greenery.

Main Beach combines charm, natural beauty and East Coast elegance. It’s a long stretch of sand with a view that makes you forget how close you are to bustling New York City. The beach is clean, family-friendly and ideal for a day of summer relaxation.

Pfeiffer Beach features patches of purple sand (most visible after rain), sea arches and rugged coastline. It's one of the most scenic beaches in the world, nestled in a state park setting that feels untouched. While swimming isn’t the main attraction, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.

With its white sand and warm Gulf waters, Gulf Shores is a haven for families, couples and anyone who enjoys classic beach fun. The town offers everything from seafood spots to boat tours, making it a go-to destination on the Gulf Coast.

Half Moon Bay offers dramatic cliffs and long walks by the ocean. It’s popular for surfing big waves and enjoying coastal views. The state park adjacent to the beach makes it perfect for exploring, and the cool breezes offer relief on even the hottest summer days.

Located near Savannah, North Beach is peaceful, clean and filled with historic charm. It’s got the best of barrier island features: sea life, calm surf and a laid-back vibe.

Bring your binoculars; it’s a prime spot for birdwatching too.

This freshwater beauty along Lake Michigan offers massive sand dunes, pine trees and scenery that rivals any ocean view. It's great for hiking, beachcombing and learning about glacial history. You might even see wildlife such as deer, foxes and chipmunks in the area.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.