Wondering where the top beaches in the US are? Discover these 28 stunning coastal spots to visit and enjoy.

From the Caribbean shores to the Pacific Northwest and beyond, the editors at Dinogo Planet have selected the 28 finest beaches in the US.

From Clearwater Beach in Florida to California's Venice Beach, the best US beaches span the nation. Whether you're seeking the serene waters of a small-town beach for family fun or envisioning romantic strolls along expansive white sands, Dinogo Planet Editors inspire your inner beach lover with their selection of the 28 top beaches in the US.

In our latest edition of Dinogo Planet Best Beaches, you'll find many more remarkable beaches worldwide. From enchanting caves and secluded coves to driftwood-strewn coastlines veiled in fog, and offshore coral reefs to cliffside clear-water pools, we explore 100 beloved shorelines across the globe 

We are thrilled to unveil our selection of the 28 best beaches in the US to assist you in planning your ideal beach getaway.

1. Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island, Georgia

The twisted branches of ancient oaks stretch over the golden sands of Jekyll Island off the coast of Georgia in an eerily captivating manner. These trees invite exploration, hinting at secrets from centuries ago. You might even conjure images of legendary zombies here—scenes from the 10th season of The Walking Dead were filmed at this Georgia beach.

However, the atmosphere is far from grim. Children can safely discover tide pools and climb onto sun-bleached trunks without a worry of zombies. Instead, you’ll find couples capturing wedding photos amidst the branches at sunset, taking advantage of the vibrant backdrop.

Originally part of a maritime forest, these trees succumbed to erosion, exposing their roots to sun and salt. Some of the trees could be over 500 years old, while others have recently fallen due to storms and the continuous advance of the Atlantic.

2. Grayton Beach, Grayton Beach State Park, Florida 

The sugar-white sands of Grayton Beach drift like soft frosting, their transient beauty ever-changing due to the winds and waves of the Florida panhandle. This striking shoreline beautifully contrasts with the clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico that kiss the beach.

This one-mile (1.6km) stretch of pristine sand, part of Grayton Beach State Park, offers more than just scenic beauty. The dunes here safeguard three coastal dune lakes, a rare natural wonder found in only four countries globally. A 4.5-mile (7.2km) multiuse trail meanders through the woods and along the 100-acre (40-hectare) Western Lake, the largest of the park's coastal dune lakes. Its stunning blue waters invite kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding.

3. South Beach, Miami Beach, Florida

A dazzling blend of sunshine, style, and vibrant crowds, South Beach epitomizes the high life. Located just east of downtown Miami in South Florida, SoBe shines like a paused kaleidoscope.

Aquamarine waves gently kiss the pristine white sands, with the lush greenery of Lummus Park and the Promenade stretching just to the west. Colorful lifeguard towers inject a playful spirit into the beach, echoing the vibrant facades of Miami’s Art Deco Historic District. Dating back to the 1930s, the art deco hotels along Ocean Drive showcase stunning geometry, bold colors, and functional design. Caribbean-inspired details and towering palm trees enhance the visual appeal, while the nightlife, featuring neon lights and bustling clubs, contrasts with the more relaxed vibe of North Beach.

4. Venice Beach, Los Angeles, California

Everywhere you look on the Venice Beach Boardwalk, cheap sunglasses are for sale along this 2-mile (3.2km) stretch of creativity flanked by weed dispensaries, t-shirt shops, and French-fry stands in southern Los Angeles—just take a glance inland to see it all unfold.

On the oceanfront, palm trees frame the sandy shore and the Pacific, with sights occasionally blocked by bodybuilders working out at Muscle Beach, basketball enthusiasts playing on bustling courts, and skateboarders soaring at the gleaming skate park. Grab a seat to take in the action—jugglers, gymnasts, and artists all compete for attention and a few coins along the way.

5. El Matador State Beach, Malibu, California

A 'pocked beach' nestled in western Malibu, El Matador may be small, but it offers an impressive visual spectacle. It’s one of three quaint beaches that make up Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach, alongside El Pescador and La Piedra. El Matador is nestled at the base of rugged bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, adjacent to the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH or California Highway 1).

A dirt trail winds down the steep cliffside to a staircase leading to the soft sands of the beach, where the true visual delight begins. A collection of rocks and sea stacks juts out from the cliffs, reaching into the ocean. The largest formations conceal arches and caves, perfect for exploration and photography, along with tide pools teeming with marine life. The setting sun bathes the rocks in a golden light, casting enchanting shadows and unveiling hidden treasures. On a tranquil afternoon, the scene approaches the sublime.

6. Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur, California

During several weeks in late December, aligning with the winter solstice, the setting sun shines through Keyhole Arch, creating a radiant golden light. Located on a narrow stretch of coastline along the rugged Big Sur coast in California, it’s a breathtaking tribute to nature’s extraordinary beauty. The scene reaches a sublime level when a wave crashes through the arch, its spray sparkling with ethereal light.

Following rainstorms, the crescent-shaped beach may exhibit patches of purple due to manganese garnet eroded from the crumbling bluffs along the coast. Swimming is not advisable at Pfeiffer Beach due to hazardous surf conditions, and it can be quite windy—but walking, beachcombing, and watching sunsets here are absolutely fantastic.

Insider tip: Try the Ambrosia burgers at Nepenthe, an oceanfront restaurant situated high on a cliff between Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge and Castro Canyon along Highway 1. The view is just as impressive as the food.

7. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Haystack Rock embodies a unique atmosphere. This volcanic remnant, shaped by 17 million years of geological uplift and erosion, towers 235 feet (72 meters) above Cannon Beach. A basalt formation, it was likely known to the Clatsop and Chinook tribes as well as the Lewis and Clark Expedition, who wintered nearby in 1805-1806. Today, Haystack Rock and its surrounding beach attract visitors in search of wildlife and breathtaking sunsets.

Located within the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge on the Northern Oregon Coast, Haystack Rock serves as a sanctuary for tufted puffins, seals, and sea lions. During low tide, beachcombers can stroll to its base to explore the tide pools, home to sea stars and anemones. Gray and humpback whales migrate along the coast during winter and spring. The Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest, held in June, showcases ephemeral creations—washed away by high tide within just five hours.

8. Sand Harbor, Lake Tahoe, Nevada

On a spring day, when the crowds are few and the snow still crowns the Sierra Nevada mountains, Sand Harbor and its lakeside boulders bring to mind a world untouched by time. Crystal-clear waters, ancient white sand beaches, and towering Jefferson pines create a sense of timeless tranquility—until summer arrives, when beach umbrellas and paddleboards break the spell as visitors flock in.

Lake Tahoe, which lies along the California–Nevada border, is the largest alpine lake in the U.S. and the second-deepest overall. Its waters are so clear that you can often spot objects as deep as 70 feet (21 meters) beneath the surface. You can truly appreciate this clarity at Sand Harbor, especially if you rent a kayak to explore its serene bay.

9. Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland and Virginia

With wild horses racing across its windswept shores, Assateague Island National Seashore offers a remarkably untamed atmosphere, a rarity along the developed Mid-Atlantic coastline. Thick maritime forests and rugged dunes complete this striking landscape. As a barrier island, Assateague hugs the coast of Maryland and Virginia on the Eastern Shore, just a three-hour drive from Washington, DC. Beach camping is allowed, enabling urbanites to immerse themselves in its wild beauty and wake up to breathtaking sunrises.

The park boasts a 37-mile (59 km) stretch of beachfront that is split by the Maryland–Virginia state line. The Maryland side is known for its laid-back adventures, including hiking nature trails, kayaking in marshy bays, and enjoying 4 miles (6.4 km) of cycling along Bayberry Dr. At Maryland’s Assateague State Park, which is nestled within the national seashore, you’ll find a bathhouse and lifeguards during the summer. Be sure to maintain a distance of at least 40 feet (12 m) from the horses—they can be more aggressive than friendly.

Local tip: Over 300 wild ponies roam the beaches and salt marshes. While they’re beautiful, it’s best to keep at least 40 feet (12 m) away—they tend to be more aggressive than accommodating.

10. Hanalei Bay, Kaua‘i, Hawaii

Is this a gateway to paradise? At Kauaʻi’s Hanalei Bay, you’ll discover a stunning 2-mile (3.2 km) crescent of golden sand on the northernmost island of the Hawaiian archipelago, regarded as one of the best beaches in Hawaii. Just west of Black Pot Beach Park, the picturesque Hanalei Pier extends into the gentle blue waters, surrounded by lush green mountains and skies painted with fluffy clouds. This 300-foot-long (91 m) pier is a tangible connection to the breathtaking beauty of the North Shore.

The beach is segmented into four distinct areas. The vicinity around the pier attracts kayakers and beginner surfers, thanks to its typically calm waters. Surf lessons are available just to the west. During winter, seasoned surfers venture to Waiʻoli (Pine Trees) Beach Park located mid-beach, where larger swells prevail. Swimming conditions vary by spot and season, generally peaking in the summer. Sunbathing and snorkeling are also popular activities here.

Local tip: It’s a quick drive from Hanalei Bay to Smith’s Fern Garden. Hop on a boat for a 2-mile journey upriver along the Wailua River, surrounded by lush tropical scenery. Along the way, performers in traditional attire share stories and sing classic Hawaiian songs. Once you disembark, take advantage of the stunning photo opportunities and follow the short trail to the grotto.

11. Oneloa Beach/Big Beach, Maui, Hawaii

Oneloa Beach boasts an appealingly wild atmosphere, featuring a wide stretch of golden sand at the southern tip of Maui, the second largest island in Hawaii. This beach is nestled within Makena State Park, where lifeguards keep an eye on the Pacific, yet the environment remains unrefined. A lush array of tropical foliage lines the sandy path leading to the nearly mile-long (1.6 km) beach—‘oneloa’ translates to “long sand” in Hawaiian—and the waves crashing upon the shore exhibit an ethereal blue hue.

Visitors should note that the shore breaks (steep waves that crash close to the shore) can be quite fierce for swimming. However, the views from the lava-rock outcrop at the southern end of Oneloa are breathtaking, with the beach framed by the verdant slopes of Haleakalā.

12. Ruby Beach, Olympic National Park, Washington

It appears as though a giant has scattered his belongings along the shores of Ruby Beach in Olympic National Park. Tree trunks lie scattered like matchsticks, while sea stacks gather like crumbled chocolates. A vibrant array of agates, garnets, and sea glass adds a sparkling charm to this mesmerizing scene.

The sea stacks, accessible during low tide, illustrate the power of coastal erosion. Once part of the mainland, they emerged after centuries of relentless ocean waves, which also sculpted their caves and arches. Surrounded by forested sandstone cliffs, Ruby Beach is a playground for kids, featuring tide pools that harbor anemones, sea urchins, purple starfish, and darting crabs. The shore and its gleaming rocks—where the agates lend the beach its ruby hue—also offer hidden treasures for keen-eyed rockhounds and seashell collectors.

13. Playa Tortuga, Isla Culabrita, Puerto Rico

As its name implies, Playa Tortuga (Turtle Beach) is a premier location for spotting the local turtle population, who flock here to breed each year. Situated on Isla Culabrita, a small island off Isla de Culebra, it is part of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge. Accessible only by boat, this beach feels especially secluded and serene.

In addition to its turtles, Playa Tortuga offers fantastic snorkeling and swimming opportunities with vibrant tropical fish. For those who prefer to stay nearer to the shore, the tide pools, affectionately called “The Jacuzzi” by locals, provide warm water fun. Whether you choose to stroll along the powdery white sands or admire the crystal-clear waters, Playa Tortuga guarantees a delightful experience.

14. Trunk Bay, Virgin Islands National Park, St. John

Often hailed as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Trunk Bay, located within Virgin Islands National Park, captivates visitors with its stunning scenery. Once you arrive, you’ll quickly see why so many are enchanted by its breathtaking beauty.

A potential drawback of visiting Trunk Bay is the crowds, particularly when cruise ships are in port. However, if you don’t mind sharing the space, you’ll enjoy an amazing underwater snorkeling trail, clear turquoise waters above, pristine white sands below, and a host of amenities like lifeguards and accessible restrooms, making it one of the Caribbean's most picturesque spots.

Local tip: Explore the remnants of the Catherineberg Sugar Mill, an 18th-century sugar and rum factory featuring a prominent windmill tower, nestled within Virgin Islands National Park. These ruins, dating back to the Danish Colonial era, are among the largest and best-preserved on the island.

15. Treasure Island Beach, Laguna Beach, California

Is this St. Tropez? Bali? Punta Mita? No, it’s actually one of Southern California’s finest beaches. With the right timing, Treasure Island can feel quite secluded, despite its location near the bustling Pacific Coast Highway in Laguna Beach. Even if visitors spill onto the sand from the highway and the nearby Montage Resort, you can still savor a perfect beach day here.

For a refreshing dip in the (admittedly cool) Pacific Ocean, make your way to Goff Island Cove at the northern end of Treasure Island Beach, where calmer waters await—ideal for swimming and snorkeling. To enjoy longer strolls along the sand, use the wheelchair-accessible ramp leading to the main beach and wander down to the livelier Aliso Beach. Alternatively, take a scenic walk along the bluff-top trails by the resort, where you might spot artists inspired by the stunning views as they create their latest works!

16. Cumberland Island, Georgia

Located on the southernmost edge of Georgia’s coast, Cumberland Island (a designated National Seashore) offers a picturesque haven for nature enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and those craving a tranquil beach day with minimal interruptions.

Stretching for 17 miles (about 27.4 km), Cumberland Island showcases one of the Northern Hemisphere’s most extraordinary natural wildlife habitats. It’s home to endangered loggerhead sea turtles that nest from May to September, along with wild horses, armadillos, and a stunning array of bird species. Even if wildlife watching isn't your focus, you can always enjoy leisurely walks on the island's expansive, pristine white sandy beaches.

Local tip: The prime time for shell collecting is during low tide. You’ll find common shells like knobbed whelks, lettered olives, moon snails, pen shells, and heart cockles. While less frequent, you might also discover sand dollars, sea beans, and sea urchins. Remember, only take uninhabited shells and fossilized shark’s teeth home with you.

17. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Situated about 70 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park not only provides an escape from the everyday, but also offers a chance to discover a different side of the Florida Keys, away from the busy tourist hotels and resorts.

What sets Dry Tortugas apart as one of the finest beaches in the US? Quite simply, it offers a Caribbean-like remote tropical beach experience closer to the US mainland than any other. While the impressive Fort Jefferson—one of the largest 19th-century military forts and the biggest brick structure in the Western Hemisphere—draws attention, you’ll also find plenty of inviting stretches of white sand to unwind on. The fact that Dry Tortugas can only be reached by boat adds to its charm and allure as a uniquely coastal national park.

18. Sand Beach, Acadia National Park, Maine

Not to be confused with Sand Harbor Beach in Lake Tahoe (mentioned earlier), Sand Beach may be the ideal spot to sink your toes into the sand at Maine’s renowned Acadia National Park. If you visit during the bustling summer season, prepare for some sizable crowds. However, even in the cooler months, you’ll still be rewarded with breathtaking coastal vistas in one of New England’s most cherished national parks.

While swimming is generally safe at Sand Beach, keep in mind that the water remains chilly year-round—even in summer. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, Sand Beach provides easy access to fantastic hiking and biking trails. Pro tip: Like the rest of Acadia National Park, Sand Beach is a fantastic spot to enjoy the vibrant fall colors during autumn leaf peeping season.

Detour: Just five miles away is the historic Bar Harbor, the largest town on Frenchman’s Bay on Maine’s Mount Desert Island. It’s a delightful destination filled with trendy shops, restaurants, green spaces, and lovely parks. While you’re there, don’t miss out on trying a lobster roll or two, a Northeast specialty.

19. Gray Whale Cove State Beach, California

Often referred to as 'Devil’s Slide,' the vistas at Gray Whale Cove State Beach can be downright stunning. Situated about 20 miles (32km) south of San Francisco and 8 miles (13km) north of Half Moon Bay, this cove feels like an escape from the sprawling Bay Area, despite its proximity to the city.

With its consistently chilly waters and occasional rip currents, Gray Whale Cove isn't the best choice for swimming. However, if you're in need of a serene beach to leave your worries behind, the breathtaking scenery here is hard to rival. As the name implies, it’s also an excellent vantage point for spotting gray whales as they migrate north in spring.

20. Seacliff State Beach, California

Why visit a beach known for its large concrete freighter? Simply put, Seacliff State Beach beautifully merges intriguing history with everlasting natural beauty. The SS Palo Alto is an unmistakable sight from the shore. With its origins as a 'Cement Ship' designed for World War I and its lively role in beach parties during the 1920s, the Palo Alto has truly found its place at this beach.

Apart from the SS Palo Alto, Seacliff is one of the few Bay Area beaches where swimming is safe, making it an ideal spot for family picnics and enjoyable beach days with children. Due to recent winter storm damage, it's wise to check in advance to confirm that all activities you plan to enjoy are available. Nevertheless, this Northern California beach is always worth a visit.

 21. Padre Island National Seashore, Texas

Believe it or not, you can find beaches in Texas! The Lone Star State is right next to the Gulf of Mexico. At Padre Island National Seashore, you’ll discover 66 miles (about 106km) of stunning Gulf Coast shoreline, stretching between Corpus Christi and the US-Mexico border.

Who would have thought that South Texas boasts over 130,000 acres of pristine white sand beaches, one of the last natural coastal prairies in the U.S., a vital sea turtle nesting habitat, and fantastic chances to spot wildlife like coyotes, deer, and ghost crabs? Now you know! No matter what beach activities you envision, this spot lets you experience it all with classic Texas charm.

22. Henderson Beach State Park, Destin, Florida

Florida boasts a wealth of stunning beaches, and Henderson Beach State Park truly showcases unique, breathtaking landscapes. Nestled in the heart of Florida’s Emerald Coast in Destin, this park features not only pristine white sand beaches but also impressive 30-foot (9-meter) high white sand dunes that must be experienced to be believed.

In addition to admiring the stunning dunes, you can explore the pet-friendly trails in the state park, enjoy picnics at designated barbecue spots, and spot a variety of wildlife including dolphins, sea turtles, butterflies, and rabbits. When you're ready for more adventure, you're just a short walk, bike ride, or drive from all that Destin has to offer.

23. Edisto Beach State Park, South Carolina

While Charleston, known as the “Holy City,” has much to offer, you’ll need to venture out of town for a beach day. Luckily, one of South Carolina’s best beaches is just a short drive away at Edisto Beach State Park on Edisto Island.

Edisto Island is only about 45 miles (72km) southwest of Charleston, yet it feels worlds apart. The island features 4 miles (about 6.5km) of wheelchair-accessible trails, beautiful live oak forests, a serene fishing pier, and 1.5 miles (about 2.5km) of palm-lined beach offering some of the most breathtaking sunrises on the Eastern Seaboard.

24. Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

Just 150 miles (241km) from North Carolina’s capital, Raleigh, Atlantic Beach feels like a serene escape from the bustle of the Research Triangle area. Situated on the barrier island of Bogue Banks, this destination offers a fantastic beach experience, whether you’re seeking an active getaway or a laid-back retreat.

For those looking to stay active, Atlantic Beach is perfect for parasailing, jet skiing, kayaking, swimming, and even surfing—especially at Fort Macon State Park, which provides some impressive swells! If relaxation is more your style, you’ll find ample stretches of soft sand ideal for leisurely walks and sunbathing.

25. Siesta Key, Sarasota, Florida

With a name like Siesta Key, you might expect this Florida beach to be on the quieter side. Indeed, it offers a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere for those seeking peace. However, if an active beach vacation is more your preference, Siesta Key has plenty to keep you entertained as well.

Siesta Key boasts 99% pure quartz sand that remains cool to the touch all year, making it easy to enjoy a full day at the beach. Recent upgrades to the public beach—such as a new pedestrian walkway, elevated concessions, and additional parking—allow you to focus on fun instead of logistics. Plus, you’re just minutes away from Sarasota’s world-class museums, art galleries, shopping areas, and restaurants.

Local tip: Beachcombers can look forward to finding shells like Augers and Lightning Whelks with ease. Although Sand dollars and horseshoe conchs are rarer, getting up early can help you beat the crowd to these treasures.

26. Melbourne Beach, Florida

Central Florida is filled with amazing attractions, from the magical realms of Orlando's theme parks to the space exploration hub at Cape Canaveral. When you’re in need of a great beach for some family time or personal relaxation, Melbourne Beach provides plenty of open sand and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a hectic day at Disney World or Universal Orlando.

While it may sound cliché, the true charm of Melbourne Beach lies in its serene and relaxing environment. Yes, you can stay busy with local golf courses, parks, and nature preserves, but for a truly easy-going beach day, it’s hard to imagine a better place to unwind than Melbourne Beach.

27. Hana Beaches, Hana, Maui

If you're drawn to secluded beauty off the beaten path, take the scenic Hana Highway from Kahului to Hana. This 60-mile journey along a narrow two-lane road offers breathtaking views of lush tropical forests on one side and the vast Pacific Ocean on the other. If you're counting, this two-to-four-hour drive (one way) features 620 sharp turns, 59 bridges crossing deep canyons, and more than 18 stunning waterfalls.

This route is not for the faint-hearted, yet it attracts a steady stream of travelers on one of the most picturesque highways in the U.S. The destination, Hana, is a quaint village with some of the island's most unique beaches, including the Black Sand Beach at Wai'ānapanapa State Park, the crescent-shaped Hamoa Beach, and the Red Sand Beach at Kaihalulu Beach. Hana Bay Beach Park serves as a community hub featuring black sand beaches, a dog park (for those bringing furry friends), picnic tables, and grills.

Detour: In Keanae, be sure to stop at the vibrantly painted Aunty Sandy's Banana Bread, which offers an outdoor dining area to enjoy fresh banana bread made with local fruit, along with Kalua pork sandwiches, coconut candy, and jars of Lilikoʻi Butter made from passion fruit. Just a heads up: they often sell out shortly after noon.

Planning Tip: Make sure to plan for plenty of stops along the route. Many waterfalls, including Ching's Pond and Falls, Upper Puohokamoa Falls, and Haipuaʻena Falls, feature natural swimming ponds. And don’t forget to take lots of photos along the way!

Local Tip: Be sure to mark your calendars for exciting events in Hana, such as the Taro Festival in March, which honors Maui's Taro Farmers, and the Canoe Regatta in April, celebrating the official start of the island's canoe season.

28. Opal Beach, Saugatuck, Michigan

Situated at the bend of the Kalamazoo River as it meets Lake Michigan, Saugatuck is a vibrant destination filled with waterfront restaurants, marinas, boardwalks, shops, and art galleries. Celebrated as a top spot for LGBTQI+ travelers, this historic village is also home to Oval Beach, one of the state's finest beaches.

Just a short distance from downtown, the beach is accessible by car (though the parking lot fills quickly) or you can choose to take the Saugatuck Chain Ferry. This hand-cranked ferry, dating back to 1838, is the last of its kind in the U.S. It’s a quick ride of less than five minutes across the Kalamazoo River, followed by a 250-foot trek up 303 wooden steps leading to the observation deck on Mount Baldy. Take a moment to catch your breath and enjoy the breathtaking view of Lake Michigan before racing down to the beach.

With its sugary sand shoreline and crystal-clear waters framed by towering dunes and gentle dune grass, this is the perfect spot to spread out a blanket and bask in the sun. While Lake Michigan can be a bit chilly early in the season, by late June the water typically warms up enough for even the more timid swimmers.

Facilities include concession stands, restrooms, and a strict no pets and no alcohol policy. Water wheelchairs are permitted and the beach is easily accessible from the parking lot.

Planning tip: Remember those classic cars from your parents’ or grandparents’ era—complete with chrome detailing and shark-like fins? From the 1940s to the 1960s, many boats were designed in a similar fashion, known as atomic boats, which sported pastel colors like lavender, pink, and blue. Though they fell out of fashion and were left abandoned in barns, you can now rent refurbished versions at Retroi Boats and cruise along the river towards the lake.

Planning tip: While Saugatuck may not be a hidden gem, it is certainly a major tourist hotspot. Be sure to make reservations in advance instead of just showing up.