Beach days during the carefree days of summer have finally arrived. It is not necessary to go to remote locations such as Mallorca, Spain, or Bali, Indonesia to find a beach paradise that is perfect for the summer.
The United States of America is home to a large variety of distinct waterfront vistas, including sandy cityscapes, windswept dunes, steep cliffside shorelines, and hidden beach coves.
It doesn't matter where you live (even if you're landlocked), there's probably a gorgeous beach close by, even if it's not on the water. Because of bodies of water such as Lake Tahoe and the Great Lakes, it is not necessary to have access to the ocean to discover the ideal stretch of sand.
Additionally, if you take a summer beach road vacation that is closer to home, you will have a better chance of avoiding busy airports and flight delays.
Related: How to enjoy Lake Tahoe without breaking the bank
Here is a list of 20 of the best sandy coastlines in destinations around the United States for your summer beach experience. These beaches range from surf spots in California to quiet nature reserves on the East Coast.
California's Cowell Ranch State Beach, located in the
It might be difficult to decide which of the more than 400 public beaches in California to visit during the warm summer months because there are so many options. Those who are looking for a pleasant beach experience should go to one of the beaches in the Half Moon Bay area of Northern California which is less crowded and more peaceful.
You can get to Cowell Ranch State Beach, a rugged length of sand that is flanked by rocky bluffs, by taking a short stroll down Highway 1. The trail ends at a stairway that leads to the beach. From the shore, it is possible to observe a wide diversity of plants and fauna, including seals.
Kaihalulu Beach, Hawaii
The islands of Hawaii are surrounded by an infinite number of beaches, so it may be difficult to choose which one to visit first. On the other hand, the red sand at Kaihalulu Beach on the island of Maui makes it stand out from the other beaches.
The path to the shore, which is steep and relatively narrow, can be challenging and even treacherous at times. On the other hand, it provides a one-of-a-kind and uncrowded opportunity to appreciate the sight of blue waves breaking against the rich, brilliant sand.
Related: your guide to the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii
Illinois beaches are located at North Avenue and Montrose.
North Avenue Beach is considered to be one of the best beaches in the city of Chicago. It is located on the shores of Lake Michigan and provides visitors with a picture-perfect view of the skyline of the city rising behind the golden sand.
The allure of North Avenue Beach remains consistent throughout the summer as a result of the several summer festivals that take place there, including Hollywood, the Chicago Air and Water Show, and different music events. If you get sick of the beach and the water, you may go to the adjacent Navy Pier or hire bicycles and ride them along the lakefront of the city instead.
A few miles further to the north, you'll find Montrose Beach, a favorite spot for locals (it has a fun portion that is dog-friendly), which is backed by a serene bird sanctuary. Paddleboards and kayaks can be rented, there is a marina where boats can be rented, there is a golf course in the area, and there is also a beach bar known as The Dock that has a vacation atmosphere with live music.
Nevada's Sand Harbor Beach was the location.
Sand Harbor is a bay on the northeastern beaches of Lake Tahoe that is strewn with stones and offers visitors picturesque views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, take a kayak out for a tour of the big boulders that line the shoreline, or have a picnic at one of the tables.
If the heat becomes unbearable, take refuge in the shade provided by the Jeffrey pines and cedar trees that line the shore. Visit the area during the annual summer Shakespeare Festival, which features plays on a stage that is put upright on the shore.
National Lakeshore of Sleeping Bear Dunes, located in Michigan
This national lakeshore was awarded the title of "Most Beautiful Place in America" by the morning news program "Good Morning America," which may explain why the name sounds familiar. This honor was most likely bestowed upon the park as a result of its towering dunes, which provide a striking visual contrast to the clear blue waters of Lake Michigan (as well as the smaller Glen Lake) and the verdant forest that surrounds the park.
It is only a forty-five-minute drive from Traverse City, where you may participate in the well-known annual Cherry Festival. This event features a variety of activities, such as parades, racing, air shows, and musical performances.
New York's Sag Harbor Main Beach
Sagg Main has the sophisticated air of the Hamptons while still maintaining the laid-back atmosphere of a local beach. Due to the proximity to the wild and natural environment that is Sagaponack Pond, the beach has a feeling of seclusion.
It is also slightly closer to Manhattan and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) than any of the other beaches in East Hampton or Montauk, making it simple for people living in the city or traveling for business or pleasure to get there. Before continuing to the beach to the east, AvGeeks who arrive late at JFK should seriously consider spending the night at the TWA Hotel.
Peninsula of Long Beach, in the State of Washington
Long Beach, which has a total length of about 28 miles, is one of the beaches in the United States that has the longest stretch of uninterrupted sand. Because there are seven entrances to the various parts of the beach, it is never too crowded to enjoy your time there.
Even though the water is too cold for swimming, this beach is fantastic for taking long walks along. The bustling American boardwalks, such as the one in Venice Beach, California, are nothing at all like this calm wooden boardwalk in Europe. It is perched high above the dunes and affords breathtaking views of the ocean from its secluded location.
Guests visiting the Washington State International Kite Festival can also take pleasure in the sea air that blows during the summer months.
Grant Park Beach, Wisconsin
Even though it's only a fast drive of twenty minutes from the city center of Milwaukee, Grant Park Beach has the impression of a secret hideaway. You can get there by driving your car or by taking a quick walk that isn't too difficult through the woods. Visitors have the option of swimming in the chilly waters of Lake Michigan as well as taking advantage of other beach amenities such as food stands, play areas for children, volleyball nets, and even a neighboring golf course.
Combine a day at the beach with a trip to the famed annual Summerfest in Milwaukee, which boasts an incredible roster of both well-known and up-and-coming musical performers and groups. Summerfest is held every year in Milwaukee.
Mustang Island, in the state of Texas
Mustang is a barrier island located off the coast of Texas on the Gulf of Mexico, and it features 18 miles of sandy shoreline. The Mustang Island Paddling Trail is a series of kayaking routes that go through shallow fishing waters and may be experienced at the Mustang Island State Park, which is a perfect location for exploring the peaceful, protected sands and experiencing the trail.
Port Aransas Beach stretches for six miles and is located adjacent to Fisherman's Wharf Pier and the observation tower at Roberts Point Park. Both of these attractions are great places to look out for dolphins and other forms of marine life.
cannon beach is located in oregon
This beach can be reached from Portland in a little over an hour and a half. Simply magnificent is the untamed, grassy shoreline as well as the picture-perfect view of the well-known Haystack Rock in the ocean.
Because the picturesque town of Cannon Beach features small boutiques, gourmet dining options, and beach bars, all of which are excellent for a peaceful trip to the seaside, it is possible to arrange an entire vacation around the concept of going to this beach. Take into consideration that it may be unsuitable to swim even in the middle of summer.
Tybee Island, in the state of Georgia
If bad weather prevents you from enjoying a day at the beach on Tybee Island, Savannah's historic district is only 30 kilometers away. However, when the weather is nice, the best way to spend the afternoon is to take a stroll along the barrier island's gorgeous boardwalk or along the long stretch of soft sand that the island offers. A trip to the lighthouse, which was built in 1736, is something that anybody with a passion for history would enjoy.
Coast Guard Beach, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
At the Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod, which stretches for twenty miles, you may relax and take in the tranquil atmosphere. Visit this location if you are a fan of Henry David Thoreau because he referred to it as the "Great Beach." Residents of Boston can get there in a little over an hour and a half by car, making it an extremely convenient location.
The region is a portion of the saltwater Nauset Marsh, which is home to a variety of species of shorebirds in addition to marine fauna such as sharks and seals. Visitors looking for an active day at the beach can ride their bikes through the marsh walks or swim, surf, or boogie board in the waters off Coast Guard Beach.
The beach at Crescent Bay in California
Crescent Bay Beach is located in Southern California and is a small cove that is surrounded by rocks. When the waves are small, the beach is a popular destination for bodysurfers, and when they are larger, it draws snorkelers. Be on the lookout for seals and sea lions lounging on the famous Seal Rock, which is located approximately 350 feet offshore.
Fans of Disneyland should take note that this beach is only 40 kilometers (25 miles) away from the theme park.
Related: The 22 Beaches in California that are considered to Be the best
Location: Rhode Island's Goosewing Beach Preserve
The Goosewing Beach Preserve is a relaxing combination of beachfront, coastal dunes, and a pond in the water. The beach may be lacking in conveniences, but it more than makes up for it in terms of its natural beauty (imagine pebbly, silver beaches, and various types of birds swooping over the foaming waves). The sandstone bluffs and grassy dunes within the preserve offer visitors a genuine reprieve from the stresses of everyday life.
The parking cost is $18 during the week and $23 on the weekends per vehicle and is collected by the preserve. The money raised will go toward protecting this delicate habitat, which is home to a variety of shorebirds that are in danger.
Related: The finest spots for a beach holiday with the family, according to TGP's selections
Location: Kill Devil Hills Beach, in the state of North Carolina
Kill Devil Hills Beach, located in the Outer Banks, is the place to be for AvGeeks. It is the location where the Wright brothers took their first flight.
A towering statue, a museum, and even a unique junior aviation center with activities for children can be found at the Wright Brothers National Memorial, which is located just a short distance from the brightly colored residences that line the long, sandy shore.
The Outer Banks are home to a plethora of additional summer beach alternatives, so if you'd like to explore other lengths of coastline, you can.
Black Beach, Minnesota
There is no requirement that you travel to the volcanic Canary Islands to witness a beach with black sand. Black Beach is known for its shimmering black sand along the edge of Lake Superior and is considered to be one of the most distinctive beaches in the United States.
However, the sand is not made of volcanic material. The presence of taconite, a byproduct of mining, gives the water of the lake its bluish-black hue. In either case, this beach with the black sand, the red rock hills, and the lush vegetation are unlike any other beach in the world.
Clearwater Beach can be found in Florida.
It is difficult to choose the best beach in Florida, but Clearwater is consistently rated highly by visitors. The white sand and turquoise sea along the stretch of beach that is three miles long should be plenty to satisfy sunbathers throughout the year. There is a seaside promenade that is perfect for walking, rollerblading, or biking, in addition to the abundance of other activities, such as parasailing.
Take in the stunning colors as the sun goes down. When dusk arrives, there is a virtually unlimited selection of oceanfront restaurants and bars serving alcoholic beverages.
Reid State Park Beach, Maine
The 770-acre Reid State Park in Maine is home to the first saltwater beach that is owned and operated by the state. In addition to sandy beaches, which are somewhat uncommon along Maine's predominantly pebble-and-rock coastline, the park is home to a rich variety of plant and bird life, as well as marshes, dunes, and rock formations. Additionally, it is widely known as one of the best places to go surfing in the state.
Combine a vacation to the beach with a hot air balloon ride during the Great Falls Balloon Festival, which takes place in Lewiston, which is an hour's drive from Reid State Park. This event takes place in addition to other summertime activities in Maine, such as lobster and clam bakes.
Dauphin Island, Alabama
Visits to the beaches on Dauphin Island are subject to a nominal fee (ten dollars per automobile). You may go swimming off of the peaceful beaches, hike trails, check out a bird sanctuary, and check out historical landmarks, including cannons, if you want to.
The city has earned the nickname "the capital of Alabama's sunsets." Visitors to the southern United States will find that the sunsets that can be seen from the shores of Dauphin Island are among the most tranquil and colorful of all.
Indiana Dunes, Indiana
Both a state park and a national park can be found inside the Indiana Dunes. Golden sands, windswept dunes, and a variety of hiking paths may be found at both of these locations.
If you find yourself becoming bored while swimming, lying on the beach, walking the trails, or playing in the dunes during the summer, there are plenty of activities to choose from thanks to summer events such as bird-watching and astronomy meetups, sand sculpture contests, and s'mores days. Those who wish to bring a picnic or spend the night can make use of the spaces that have been set aside for camping and picnics respectively.
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