There are so many different criteria that define the perfect beach: the sand, the waves, the shells, the amount of seclusion, the parking, the boardwalk, the picnic tables, the activities, and even the amount of shaded trees. I absolutely love beach bumming, so I put together a list of some U.S. beaches (some I have visited and enjoyed) that you may want to dive into this summer.
Lauderdale-by-the-sea, Florida
I had no idea about this lesser-known beach town hidden on Florida's east coast and tucked between Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach. You can take a stroll down the beach pavilion to the pier, take a walk through Anglin’s Square, which is filled with cafes, bars, restaurants, and gelato shops, and visit at night to enjoy the bar scene. Also,, it's more affordable than the overcrowded Miami beaches.
Tybee Island, Georgia
This beach destination is just 20 minutes from historic downtown Savannah. Tybee Island has a 5-mile long beach, with several distinct areas where you can watch birds and ships, hunt for seashells and shark teeth, engage in a game of volleyball, spot dolphins, fish or enjoy the great views of Little Tybee. The area also has lots of free parks, playgrounds, and hiking trails. My favorite part was collecting shells, sunbathing, and then enjoying fresh seafood after an eventful day at the beach.
Destin Beach, Florida
Get ready for the stunning white beaches, challenging golf, and world-famous fishing in this Emerald Coast city. Destin is nestled against the Gulf of Mexico in northwest Florida, and is famous for its sugar-white sands and emerald-hued waters. Being there is like escaping to a Caribbean island. You can also enjoy the sandy beaches and night life of Panama City just a few minutes away. These beaches can get crowded mid-day, so plan for an early morning start to grab the best spot.
Coronado Island, San Diego County
This was one of my favorite California beaches. The golden sand, tide pools, convenient facilities, and a dog-friendly section at North Beach make Coronado Island’s beaches popular. You can choose waves or the calm bay, relax on the shore or stay busy surfing, paddleboarding, or boogie boarding. Once you cross the stunning Coronado Bay Bridge to the island, consider spending the night at the classic Hotel del Coronado. I enjoyed sipping a cool drink and having a snack beachside at this peaceful oasis just watching the waves roll in!
Playa Caracas aka Red Beach, Puerto Rico
This beach is one of the local favorites, and mine too! It offers gorgeous scenery, perfect waters for swimming and playing, a wide beach with plenty of white sand for relaxing, playing volleyball, frisbee throwing, or grabbing a gazebo for family picnics. Whatever you decide to do, it'll be breathtaking.
Gold Beach, Oregon Gold Beach is another lesser-known, but affordable beach. The town has secluded beaches, tidepooling, ocean kayaking, and the nearby Rogue River offers jet boat tours and fishing. If visiting between March and May, you may catch a glimpse of northbound pods of migrating gray whales as they pass. For dinner, get the freshest seafood at Spinners’ or Barnacle Bistro.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
This lively, family-friendly beach town has great activities and a vibrant downtown to explore. The city is known as the mini-golf capital of the world, with more than 50 themed miniature golf courses in the area. You can hunt for seashells, explore the pier at Myrtle Beach State Beach, and go shopping at Hudson's Surfside Flea Market. There is something for the entire family to enjoy.
Kauna'oa Beach, Hawaii
This crescent-shaped beach is one of the prettiest white sand beaches on the Big Island of Hawaii. With its abundant white sand, palm trees, and clear, calm blue water, it is ideal for sun bathing, water sports, and families in search of safe, sandy fun. The waters are so pristine that they have the ability to calm just by looking at them, especially while sipping on a fruity cocktail. p.s. You can actually still see your toenails deep into the ocean.
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