The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking coastlines in the world — from the powdery white sands of Florida to the golden shores of California and the tropical paradises of Hawaii. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, world-class surfing, or nightlife by the ocean, America’s beaches have something for everyone.

Here are the Top 25 Best Beaches in the USA you need to add to your bucket list in 2026.

 1. Miami Beach – Florida

Famous for its lively vibe, white sand, and turquoise water, Miami Beach blends sun, art, and nightlife like no other. South Beach’s Art Deco District is a must-see.
👉 See full Miami Beach details

 2. Clearwater Beach – Florida

With its powdery sand and nightly Pier 60 festivals, Clearwater Beach is perfect for families. Calm waters make it one of the safest beaches in Florida.
👉 See Clearwater Beach details

 3. Siesta Key Beach – Florida

Known for its cool, quartz-crystal sand, Siesta Key offers one of the most unique textures in the world. Families love its shallow waters and drum circle sunsets.

 4. Waikiki Beach – Oahu, Hawaii

The most famous beach in Hawaii, Waikiki is perfect for beginner surfers, sunset sails, and vibrant nightlife right next to Honolulu’s skyline.

 5. Lanikai Beach – Oahu, Hawaii

A hidden gem with turquoise water and views of the Mokulua Islands. Lanikai Beach is one of the most photographed beaches in the world.

 6. Kāʻanapali Beach – Maui, Hawaii

Luxury meets tradition at Kāʻanapali, where you’ll find Black Rock snorkeling and Maui’s famous cliff diving ceremony.

 7. Hanalei Bay – Kauai, Hawaii

Towering green mountains frame this crescent-shaped bay, making Hanalei Bay one of Hawaii’s most scenic beaches.

 8. Santa Monica Beach – California

An iconic California beach with a famous pier, Santa Monica is the definition of fun with its amusement park, shops, and people-watching.

 9. Venice Beach – California

Edgy and artistic, Venice Beach is a hub for street performers, skaters, and surf culture.

 10. Malibu (Zuma Beach) – California

A favorite of locals and celebrities, Zuma Beach offers wide sands, excellent surf, and classic California vibes.

 11. Coronado Beach – San Diego, California

Golden sand, calm waters, and the historic Hotel del Coronado make this one of California’s most family-friendly beaches.

 12. La Jolla Cove – California

Crystal-clear waters and abundant sea life make La Jolla Cove a snorkeler’s paradise.

 13. Cape May Beach – New Jersey

Charming Victorian homes line Cape May, one of the most scenic beaches on the East Coast.

 14. Myrtle Beach – South Carolina

Known for its boardwalk, amusement rides, and golf resorts, Myrtle Beach is an East Coast classic.

 15. Virginia Beach – Virginia

Where the Atlantic meets Chesapeake Bay, Virginia Beach offers a famous boardwalk and family fun.

 16. Outer Banks (Nags Head) – North Carolina

The Outer Banks are a natural wonder — wide beaches, wild horses, and endless opportunities for water sports.

 17. Cannon Beach – Oregon

Home to the famous Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is a Pacific Northwest icon known for its rugged beauty.

 18. Ruby Beach – Washington

Dramatic rock formations and driftwood make Ruby Beach one of the most photogenic spots on the West Coast.

 19. South Padre Island – Texas

A party paradise in spring break season, but also great for dolphin tours and family vacations year-round.

 20. Cape Cod (Coast Guard Beach) – Massachusetts

Classic New England charm with sand dunes, lighthouses, and whale-watching.

 21. Gulf Shores – Alabama

A hidden gem of the Gulf Coast, Gulf Shores offers soft sands and warm waters.

 22. Biloxi Beach – Mississippi

Affordable and family-friendly, Biloxi is a great Southern getaway.

 23. Chicago (North Avenue Beach) – Illinois

One of the best urban beaches in the country, offering city skyline views right on Lake Michigan.

 24. Sleeping Bear Dunes – Michigan

Towering dunes meet Lake Michigan’s blue waters, making this beach a Midwest treasure.

 25. Coney Island Beach – New York

A mix of beach, boardwalk, and carnival fun — Coney Island is a New York classic.

 Final Thoughts

From Hawaii’s tropical shores to Florida’s family-friendly gems and California’s surf scene, the USA is packed with world-class beaches. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, surf, or family fun, these 25 destinations prove that paradise is closer than you think.

👉 Looking for more? Explore our full Beaches list to find beaches near you!