by When it comes to the ultimate beach getaway, the United States delivers some of the most photogenic and unforgettable stretches of sand in the world. From the volcanic shores of Hawaii to the sugar-white sands of Florida, these coastal treasures offer everything from thrilling wildlife encounters to charming boardwalks and historic charm.
Here’s a coast-to-coast guide to nine of the most epic beaches in the U.S.—perfect for your next sun-soaked escape.
1. Jacksonville Beach, Florida
Just 17 miles from downtown Jacksonville, this Atlantic-facing beach has drawn visitors since the 1880s. Once known as Pablo Beach, it was famed for its dance pavilions and roller coasters. While those amusements have disappeared, the wide sandy shoreline and the 1,300-foot pier continue to offer panoramic ocean views and plenty of charm.
2. Port Aransas Beach, Mustang Island, Texas
This 18-mile stretch of soft sand along the Gulf of Mexico is one of the few Texas beaches where vehicles are permitted. Visitors can drive their cars or golf carts right onto the beach, making it easy to enjoy fishing, surfing, or simply relaxing by the waves. The cinematic scenery makes it a standout among Texas coastal destinations.
3. Carmel Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Nestled in the idyllic town of Carmel-by-the-Sea—famous for its storybook cottages and celebrity residents—Carmel Beach is a white-sand haven surrounded by emerald waters. Pelicans fly overhead, and dolphins or whales can sometimes be spotted offshore. Tripadvisor reviewers call it “pristine” and a true “happy place.”
4. Pismo Beach, California
Spanning 17 miles along California’s Central Coast, Pismo Beach offers expansive sands perfect for sand art, surfing, and clamming. Notably, it’s the only California State Park beach that allows vehicles, making it a popular choice for adventurers and families alike. The comeback of the native Pismo clam has also put the beach in the spotlight recently.
5. Morro Rock Beach, Morro Bay, California
Towering 576 feet above the ocean, Morro Rock—a volcanic plug known as the “Gibraltar of the Pacific”—dominates the skyline of this awe-inspiring beach. The rock serves as both a scenic landmark and a sanctuary for birds, adding a dramatic backdrop to a tranquil shoreline.
6. Siesta Beach, Siesta Key, Florida
Voted the No.1 beach in the U.S. in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards, Siesta Beach is beloved for its powdery, quartz-crystal sand that’s famously soft and cool to the touch. With lifeguards on duty and plenty of seashells to collect, it’s a favorite for families and beachcombers alike.
7. Kaʻanapali Beach, Maui, Hawaii
A former winner of Tripadvisor’s top beach award in 2023, Kaʻanapali Beach is the picture of tropical perfection. Stretching three miles along Maui’s west coast, this beach offers golden sands, swaying palms, and frequent sightings of breaching whales. It’s a must-visit for those seeking a true Hawaiian paradise.
8. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s longest pleasure beach, Virginia Beach features a three-mile Oceanfront Beach lined with a bustling boardwalk. It’s a blend of sun, surf, and entertainment, offering something for everyone—from beachgoers to bikers and rollerbladers.
9. Long Beach, Washington
At 28 miles long, Long Beach more than lives up to its name. A favorite for scenic drives and road trips along Highway 101, this coastal gem offers sweeping vistas, wide-open skies, and easy access from both Portland and Seattle. It’s the ideal beach for those who want to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in Pacific Northwest beauty.
