Your Ultimate Summertime Guide to the Best Beaches in the US

Are you craving a beachside escape this summer, but you’re not quite sure yet where to go?

Whether you’re on a quest for a tropical beach paradise or a cozy coastal retreat with ocean views, grab your beach towel and your sunglasses as we uncover the best beaches in the United States to visit this summer.

Soak Up the Sun at South Padre Island, Texas

Where better to kick start our superb list of the best beaches in the United States than with a trip to South Padre Island, Texas. Synonymous for its soft white sand and tranquil seas, as soon as you step foot on South Padre Island, you’ll quickly understand why it has earned its reputation as a top beach retreat.

Here, you can spend your day sunbathing under the warm Texan sun or swimming in its tropical waters, but we’d also highly recommend heading over to Sand Castle Village for its fascinating sand sculpture exhibits on display. However, if you do visit South Padre Island, you could also adopt a sea turtle while visiting the awe-inspiring Sea Turtle Inc., the largest sea turtle rescue hospital in the world.

Make the most of a vacation to the best beach in the Lone Star State by booking your stay in the magnificent Best Western Beachside Inn in South Padre Island, Texas.

Experience The Raw Beauty of Nye Beach in Newport, Oregon

Next on our impressive highlight reel of America’s best beaches, we head to Newport, Oregon, nestled along the rugged, picturesque coast of the Beaver State. Like much of this striking coastline, Newport is blessed with a myriad of coves and inlets, making it a cozy beach escape for those who love the feel of the sea breezes as they roll in off the ocean.

Here, the timeless appeal of the rocky outcrops that frame Nye Beach makes for a nostalgic session of rockpool fishing, in addition to the spectacular hiking trails that overlook its shores. Take the time to explore as you and your friends and family beachcomb for seashells before heading over to Marine Discovery Tours for an epic boat trip to meet the local seal, porpoise, and migrating gray whale populations.

Be sure to enjoy the sights and sounds of this fantastic West Coast beach hideaway with your very own waterfront view when you stay at the fabulous Best Western Plus Agate Beach Inn in Newport, Oregon.

Revel In the Magic of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Next, we venture to the outstanding Atlantic shoreline to visit the best beach on the East Coast, otherwise known as Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Stretching for as far as the eye can see, Myrtle Beach’s sandy seashores offer visitors the chance to take sunrise strolls every morning as you listen to the sound of the ocean waves gently rolling in.

Bathed in the warm North Carolina sun, this picture-perfect beach resort offers an unbeatable backdrop for any beach volleyball enthusiasts among you. However, if you have the urge to try something more exotic, then you should meet the team down at Downwind Sails Watersports to hit the water on a jet ski or request a sky-high panoramic view of Myrtle Beach on a parasailing excursion.

Make lasting memories at this astonishing east coast beach location and wake up with a poolside and beachside view every morning while staying at the amazing Dayton House Resort, BW Signature Collection in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Surfs Up at Tamarack Beach in Carlsbad, California

We head back to the West Coast on our tour of the best beaches in the US and the serene coastal getaway of Tamarack Beach in Carlsbad, California. Classified as a true sun, sea, and surf vacation, Tamarack Beach’s breathtaking views and stellar Pacific Ocean sunsets make this laidback coastal retreat the perfect beach trip away, whether you’re visiting with your friends or your family.

Home to a host of cafes, shops, and local eateries with views over the beach, Carlsbad makes for a heavenly chillout location. Yet, if you’re in need of an adventure, then why not catch a few waves while you are here? For the seasoned pros among you, the ocean is forever welcoming, but if you’re new to surfing, then join the wonderful instructors at Socal Surf Lessons for a brilliant few hours out on the water.

Recharge your batteries with a desirable beach backdrop every night when you book your stay at the aptly named Best Western Plus Beach View Lodge Carlsbad in Carlsbad, California.

Glow Row Kayaking Explorations in Orange Beach, Alabama

Returning to the Gulf Coast on our shortlist of the best beaches in America, we find ourselves on the exquisite white sands of Cotton Bayou Beach in Orange Beach, Alabama. Considered to be the best beach in Alabama, whether you are traveling solo or with a big group of friends, you won’t find a more relaxing beach vacation in the Yellowhammer State.

Here, the sun-kissed shores of Cotton Bayou Beach are tailor-made for beachgoers of all ages, so whether you choose to relax by sunbathing under the clear blue Alabama skies or go for a swim in the cooling Gulf water seas, this beach has you covered. Nevertheless, after a dream day basking in the sunshine, the best thing to do afterward is to meet up with the crew at Sea View Tours for a stunning sunset glow paddle kayaking tour along the coast.

Take the time to unwind at this incredible beachside resort by getting a great night’s sleep every night at the excellent Best Western Premier The Tides in Orange Beach, Alabama.

Savour the Unspoiled Vistas of Fort Myers Beach, Florida

Our final top beach destination sees us heading to the Sunshine State and the turquoise waters of Fort Myers Beach, Florida. This pristine seven-mile-long family-friendly beach is the true definition of a tropical paradise and easily makes it onto our showcase listings of the best beaches in the United States.

The cool, calm, shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico will make you feel like you’re vacationing on a desert island, allowing you to fill your days by taking long strolls down the beach. Regardless of how you choose to spend your time on your beachside escape, be sure to also pay a visit to the marvelous crew at Fort Myers Princess for a sunset dolphin sightseeing tour before you leave.

Soak up the sun as you enjoy the Floridian weather and delight in the sweeping views over the Gulf of Mexico when you stay at the splendid Best Western Plus Beach Resort in Fort Myers Beach, Florida.