7 Great Beaches in the U.S.
Aah, the beach. It conjures images of the sun, a gentle sea breeze in your hair and the whoosh of the waves as they wash in over sparkling sand. You’ll want to relax under the palm trees like they do in the Corona commercials or hang ten like in those Beach Boys’ songs.
If the beach is your destination this year, here are 7 great ones scattered across the U.S. Some of them you’ve no doubt heard of, others are a little off the beaten track.
Coquina Beach, Bradenton, FL. Nestled just south of the more well-known Bradenton Beach, Coquina Beach is a small haven just perfect for those who want to get in some quiet time. Beyond a small food stand and a well-maintained changing area, there isn’t much in the way of attractions. Then again, Coquina doesn’t need them. You’ve got warm sun, soft sand, palm trees and some of the bluest water Florida has to offer, all without the huge crowds
Myrtle Beach, SC. 50 miles of pristine white beaches is just a start. Myrtle Beach offers that of course, but there are also plenty of other attractions including Broadway-style shows, amusement parks rides and the 200-foot Skywheel. The beauty of Myrtle Beach is that you can make your beach experience however you want. There is plenty to do and plenty of reasons to return.
Caladesi Island, FL. A beautiful expanse of unspoiled Florida beach, Caladesi Island is only accessible by ferry or by boat. For a nominal fee, you can take a day trip to enjoy this 3 mile strip of white sand and blue surf which features a nature trail and some great saltwater fishing.
Huntington Beach, CA. This beach prides itself on being the active beach lover’s vacation. It’s actually five separate beaches clustered together along a mile 10-mile stretch, where you can find all the volleyball, surfing, hiking and biking you could ask for. And for those times when you just want to relax, it has plenty of California sun and Pacific surf to enjoy.
Punaluu Black Sand Beach, HI. If you’ve seen so many beaches that one white sand beach is starting to look like another, Punaluu Beach, located on Hawaii’s Big Island, is a must see. Created by lava flowing into the ocean during the island’s formations, the beach sand is jet black and ringed by coconut palms. It’s also home to the endangered Hawksbill and green sea turtles who often like to share space with beach goers.
Wailea Beach, Maui, HI. Less commercial than some of the more well-known spots, Wailea still has all the tropical beach experience you’ll want. It’s perfect for families looking for that quintessential Hawaiian beach experience without getting too far off the beaten track.
Old Orchard Beach, ME. Old Orchard Beach is a 7-mile long stretch of beautiful sand located south of Portland, that’s been hosting beach goers for generations. It is a classic beach town with accommodations for all sorts of budgets. In addition to the beach, there are rides, games and the famous Old Orchard Pier to enjoy. And it’s a personal favorite of ours, even with so many other beautiful Maine beaches in the area.
Whether you like nightlife and adventure or just want to kick back in the sun, these beaches have it covered. Have a great summer and some fun in the sun!