Discover the 15 best beach vacations in the US

1. Maui, Hawaii

Maui is renowned for its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts. With over 30 miles of coastline, you can explore famous spots like Kaanapali Beach and Wailea Beach. The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, surfing, and relaxing under the sun.

2. Key West, Florida

Key West offers a unique blend of vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches. Visit the southernmost point of the continental U.S. and enjoy the sunset at Mallory Square. The beaches here, like Smathers Beach, are perfect for sunbathing and water sports.

3. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Myrtle Beach boasts a 60-mile stretch of sandy coastline. Visitors can enjoy amusement parks, golf courses, and numerous beachfront dining options. Don't forget to check out the famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk!

4. Laguna Beach, California

With its picturesque coves and art galleries, Laguna Beach is a haven for artists and beach lovers alike. The vibrant tide pools and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and exploring the natural beauty.

5. Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks is a string of barrier islands known for their natural beauty and history. From the Wright Brothers National Memorial to the scenic lighthouses, there's plenty to explore. The beaches here are less crowded, making it perfect for a peaceful getaway.

6. South Padre Island, Texas

Famous for its spring break festivities, South Padre Island is a fun destination for beachgoers. Enjoy water sports, dolphin watching, and vibrant nightlife. The warm Gulf waters are ideal for swimming and relaxing on the beach.

7. Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica combines a bustling city vibe with beautiful beaches. The iconic Santa Monica Pier offers attractions, food, and entertainment, while the beach itself is perfect for sunbathing, volleyball, and surfing.

8. Clearwater Beach, Florida

With its powdery white sand and clear blue waters, Clearwater Beach is a top destination for families. The beachfront promenade is lined with shops and restaurants, making it easy to find entertainment after a day at the beach.

9. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach is known for its long boardwalk and wide sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy various activities, from parasailing to beach volleyball. The area also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year.

10. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island is a golfer's paradise, but it also offers beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. With over 12 miles of coastline, you can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and nature trails, all while soaking in the stunning views.

11. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is famous for its stunning coastal scenery and iconic Haystack Rock. The beach is perfect for long walks, tide-pooling, and enjoying the breathtaking sunsets. The charming town offers art galleries and unique shops to explore.

12. Naples, Florida

Naples is known for its upscale shopping, fine dining, and beautiful beaches. The calm waters are perfect for families, and the sunsets here are simply unforgettable. Enjoy a day at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park for a more natural setting.

13. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. The pristine beaches are perfect for swimming, fishing, and sunbathing. The area is also known for its delicious seafood and family-friendly attractions.

14. San Diego, California

San Diego boasts beautiful beaches, a vibrant culture, and perfect weather year-round. Check out La Jolla Cove for snorkeling and sea lion sightings, or head to Mission Beach for a lively boardwalk experience.

15. Cape May, New Jersey

Known for its Victorian architecture and charming atmosphere, Cape May is a delightful beach destination. The beaches here are family-friendly, and the town offers plenty of shops and restaurants to explore when you're not soaking up the sun.

Comparison Chart of the 15 Best Beach Vacations in the US

Destination	Best For	Highlights
Maui, Hawaii	Luxury & Relaxation	Kaanapali Beach, Wailea Beach
Key West, Florida	Vibrant Nightlife	Mallory Square, Smathers Beach
Myrtle Beach, SC	Family Fun	Amusement Parks, Boardwalk
Laguna Beach, California	Art & Nature	Picturesque Coves, Tide Pools
Outer Banks, NC	History & Nature	Wright Brothers Memorial, Lighthouses
South Padre Island, TX	Spring Break Fun	Dolphin Watching, Water Sports
Santa Monica, CA	City & Beach Vibe	Santa Monica Pier
Clearwater Beach, FL	Family-Friendly	White Sand, Beachfront Promenade
Virginia Beach, VA	Festivals & Events	Long Boardwalk, Beach Volleyball
Hilton Head Island, SC	Golf & Outdoor Activities	12 Miles of Coastline
Cannon Beach, OR	Scenic Views	Haystack Rock, Tide-Pooling
Naples, FL	Upscale Relaxation	Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
Gulf Shores, AL	Adventure & Relaxation	Pristine Beaches, Seafood
San Diego, CA	Culture & Beaches	La Jolla Cove, Mission Beach
Cape May, NJ	Charming Atmosphere	Victorian Architecture, Family-Friendly

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a family-friendly destination, or an exciting nightlife scene, these 15 best beach vacations in the US offer something for every type of traveler. Pack your bags and get ready to soak up the sun!

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