Hidden Beaches You Need to Visit

You don’t have to wait until summer and you definitely don’t have to push through crowds to enjoy the beach. Enjoy these serene, gorgeous beaches found in the U.S. What lesser-known beaches do you love?

1.  Corolla Beach, North Carolina

The Outer Banks get a fair amount of traffic, but taking the time to find a secluded beachy spot will improve your day infinitely. Corolla Beach has a private feeling and is abundant in stunning scenery.

2. Dry Tortugas, Florida

This amazing group of islands is found about 70 miles west of Key West. This national park is only accessible by boat or seaplane, making it a hidden gem. Home to Fort Jefferson, there’s tons of history to explore alongside the islands’ crystal waters.

3. Cumberland Island, Georgia

Cumberland Island enjoys a large population of wild horses, which graze on the grass that borders the sandy beaches. It’s a unique experience and the perfect photo op.

4. Marshall’s Beach, California

San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge attracts tourists and photographers year-round, but perhaps the best angle of the arches is found from a lesser known beach on the south side of the bridge. A short hike to Marshall’s Beach puts you at the surf, underneath the iconic scene.

5. Pacific City, Oregon

Pacific City is a beautiful beach located outside of Tillamook, Oregon. The most memorable feature of the beach is the massive dune just north of the beach entrance. The hill is a popular playground for beach-goers.

6. Orange Beach, Alabama

The city of Orange Beach offers 32 miles of white sand beaches with 360-degree views. Year-round warm weather makes this beach a popular destination for locals, but it’s a relatively unknown beach for tourists.

7. Chicago Beaches in Illinois

Although the city of Chicago is not found on the ocean, the sheer size of Lake Superior justifies tides and foamy surf. Chicago itself is surrounded by miles of sandy coastline.

8. Ecola State Park, Oregon

Ecola State Park combines the beauty of Oregon’s beaches with the grandeur of their pines. Rock, sand and plant life combine to create a stunning and unique experience.

9. Ogunquit, Maine

Maine’s rocky shores are broken up by the rolling sand hills of Ogunquit’s beaches. During summer months, locals dip their feet in the cool ocean waves and enjoy the lush surroundings.

10. San Juan Islands, Washington

The San Juan Islands are found at the northwest corner of Washington’s border. With views of British Columbia and pods of killer whales passing through the islands, the small, secluded beaches are perfect for afternoon picnics. Kayakers and boaters often find their own shore and never see a soul the rest of the day.

11. McWay Falls, California

Found just off California’s famous Hwy 1, McWay Falls is part of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The falls stand at 80 feet over the sandy cove below creating one of the most picture-perfect settings you will ever see.

12. Corpus Christi, Texas

Padre Island and Mustang Island protect Corpus Christi’s shores, creating a serene setting in this charming Gulf Coast destination.

Explore the country’s most amazing beaches and the charming cities that border them. You can find more than 2,200 Best Western locations in North America alone when you search at bestwestern.com. Go. Get. Rewarded. when you sign up to become a Rewards member and earn points to be redeemed for free nights, gift cards and more.