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Lindsay Cohn, Contributor
Forbes Vetted
Nothing says summer quite like a trip to the beach. The best beaches in the U.S. deliver ocean waves and postcard-worthy views—and swimsuit-ready temps aren’t a requirement to visit them. These beaches can easily be enjoyed outside of peak tourist season. After all, there’s something about the solitude of a walk along the empty shoreline that’s incredibly peaceful.
Whatever a dream day at the beach looks like to you, there’s a beach in the U.S., from Maine to Oregon, that’s sure to turn your seaside fantasies into reality. We’ve narrowed down the best beaches in the U.S. in 2024 across a large range of states, as well as the best hotel and Airbnb options to book for your getaway.
Where To Stay Near The Best Beaches In The U.S.:
- Poʻipū Beach, Hawaii: Whalers Cove Resort; Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection; Little Rainbow Kauai
- Aliso Beach, California: Montage Laguna Beach; The Ranch at Laguna Beach; Sonder Woods Cove
- Cape May Beach, New Jersey: Congress Hall; Virginia Hotel & Cottages; Boarding House
- Ogunquit Beach, Maine: Beachmere Inn; The Admiral's Inn; La Perla on River’s Edge
- Zuma Beach, California: The Surfrider Malibu; Malibu Beach Inn; Hotel June
- Miami Beach, Florida: The Setai, Miami Beach; 1 Hotel South Beach; W South Beach
- Kapalua Bay Beach, Hawaii: The Ritz-Carlton Maui Kapalua; Montage Kapalua Bay, Hale Napili
- Platte River Point Beach, Michigan: The Round Haven on Big Glen Lake; Quiet Studio on Lake Michigan; Glen Arbor Bed & Breakfast and Cottages
- Paine's Creek Beach, Massachusetts: The Mansion at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club; Candleberry Inn; The Sandpiper
- Cannon Beach, Oregon: The Ocean Lodge; Inn at Cannon Beach; Cannon Beach Cottage
- Virginia Beach, Virginia: Moxy Hotel Virginia Beach; Hyatt Place Virginia Beach / Oceanfront; The Beach Nest
- Monterey State Beach, California: Sanctuary Beach Resort; Green Gables Inn; Hampton Inn Monterey
Poʻipū Beach
Poʻipū Beach, Hawaii
Who Will Love It: Families; fans of watersports
All-Star Attractions: Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs; Poipu Bay Golf Course
What Not To Miss: Lessons at Poʻipū Beach Surf School
Where To Stay: Whalers Cove Resort; Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection; Little Rainbow Kauai
Kaua‘i, also known as Hawaii’s Garden Isle, brims with lush, dramatic scenery—the cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast even set the stage for Jurassic Park. On the sunny South Shore of the island sits Poʻipū Beach, a gorgeous trio of golden crescents that’s popular among families. From swimming and snorkeling in the natural, shallow tidal pools to boogie boarding and surf lessons for beginners, there’s no shortage of ways to fill a day.
Where To Stay:
Whalers Cove Resort: This top-rated stay blends the amenities of a resort — including a pool, spa and daily housekeeping—with the comforts of home. All residential-style condo units feature full kitchens, and one, two or three bedrooms with plush beds.
Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection: From the lush, tropical grounds and the enormous pool to the generously sized rooms and Hawaiian comfort food, this slice of South Shore paradise is the perfect vacation home base near Poʻipū Beach.
Little Rainbow Kauai: When it comes to accommodations for a Kaua‘i vacation near Poʻipū Beach, all you really need is a clean and comfy place to wipe your sandy feet, rinse off and snooze after riding the waves. This breezy, boho condo has all that and more (including an upper-level lānai, or veranda, with garden and ocean views).
Aliso Beach
Aliso Beach, California
Who Will Love It: Skimboarders; sybarites with a fondness for salty air
All-Star Attractions: Lost Pier Cafe; Laguna Beach Cliff Hike; The Cave
What Not To Miss: Watching the best skimmers practice (and perhaps giving it a go)
Where To Stay: Montage Laguna Beach; The Ranch at Laguna Beach; Sonder Woods Cove
Located in one of Orange County’s most renowned coastal communities, Aliso Beach is famous for skimboarding—it even hosts The Vic, the prestigious annual world championship. Of course, if you’ve never tried gliding across the water’s surface—and don’t have any interest in trying it out—there’s still plenty to see and do at this renowned seaside spot. Watch the pros do what they do best or just sit on the shore and soak up the year-round sunshine. From a logistical standpoint, it’s also the only beach in the area with metered on-site parking, which makes accessing the sand and surf much easier—especially if you’re hauling a lot of gear.
Where To Stay:
Montage Laguna Beach: It’s all Champagne wishes and caviar dreams at this five-star resort. From private helicopter tours over the coast to Instagram-worthy beach picnics complete with tasty bites and bubbly, the bespoke experiences—just like the accommodations—are next-level fabulous.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach: Wedged between canyons and the sea, this upscale resort is chock-full of ambiance and amenities. Play 18 holes of golf, take a dip in the outdoor pool, spend the day blessing out at the spa or walk 10 minutes to Aliso Beach.
Sonder Woods Cove: Ideal for extended stays, digital nomads and families, Sonder has apartment-style rooms with all the comforts of home, easy self-check-in, and a digital concierge. Plus, it’s a straight shot up the Pacific Coast Highway from Aliso Beach.
Cape May Beach
Cape May Beach, New Jersey
Who Will Love It: Families; history buffs
All-Star Attractions: Cape May Promenade; Cape May Lighthouse; Trolley Tours
What Not To Miss: Admiring the well-preserved Victorian architecture
Where To Stay: Congress Hall; Virginia Hotel & Cottages; Boarding House
The Garden State encompasses 141 miles of Atlantic Ocean real estate—none more iconic or family-friendly than Cape May Beach, which runs parallel to Beach Avenue for 2.5 miles. The wide, sandy shore is prime for digging holes, building sandcastles and playing paddleball. Even on the hottest summer days, a quick dip in the water instantly refreshes. Lifeguards patrol the beach from July 1 through Labor Day, and beach badges are required for beachgoers ages 12 and up from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day.
Where To Stay:
Congress Hall: For travelers who want that nostalgic seaside experience, America’s oldest seaside resort, which dates back to 1816, supplies a wraparound terrace with rocking chairs that beckon guests to kick back with a spritz, a swimming pool and summer beach service.
Virginia Hotel & Cottages: Planning a grown-up getaway? Consider booking a room at this boutique bolthole that’s tucked inside a restored Victorian house originally dating to 1879. For date night, snag a table in the cozy dining room or breezy patio at the Ebbitt Room.
Boarding House: Low-key beach vibes, airy rooms and an attractive price tag make this modern, surf-inspired hotel a great choice. It’s a bit further from the beach and promenade, but still easily accessible by bike. Its pet-friendly policy means Fluffy and Fido are welcome.
Ogunquit Beach
Ogunquit Beach, Maine
Who Will Love It: New Englanders; relaxation seekers
All-Star Attractions: Ogunquit Playhouse; Ogunquit Museum of American Art; Marginal Way
What Not To Miss: Musicals at the Ogunquit Playhouse summer theater; a scenic cliff walk along Marginal Way
Where To Stay: Beachmere Inn; The Admiral's Inn; La Perla on River’s Edge
Consistently named among the best beaches in Maine, Ogunquit Beach is a quintessential summertime New England destination. In the warmer months, it’s a popular spot for swimming, building sand castles, lounging in Adirondack chairs and watching the sunset. In between tanning sessions, go for a stroll along Marginal Way, the scenic 1.5-mile cliff walk that links Shore Road to Perkins Cove. As any trip to Maine requires, make sure to grab a lobster roll in town.
Where To Stay:
Beachmere Inn: Situated along Marginal Way, the Beachmere Inn is a historic seaside stay. Built circa 1897, the Victorian Building houses rooms with coastal decor, kitchenettes and ocean vistas. There’s also an expansive lawn with seating and a bistro that serves lobster Benedict for breakfast.
The Admiral's Inn: Ideal for a summer escape, this resort-style hotel within walking distance of town garners praise for its variety of accommodations as well as seasonal amenities, including two outdoor pools, hot tubs and a patio bar with a fire pit for sundowners.
La Perla on River’s Edge: For a little peace and quiet, this cute cottage along the Ogunquit River delivers a dose of serenity cocooned in white shiplap and wood without being too far from the beach or downtown—you can bike to both in just a few minutes.
Zuma Beach
Zuma Beach, California
Who Will Love It: Surfers; road trippers
All-Star Attractions: Zuma Ridge Trailhead; Point Dume State Beach
What Not To Miss: Lessons from Malibu Surfing School
Where To Stay: The Surfrider Malibu; Malibu Beach Inn; Hotel June
Exposed breaks and reliable swells make Zuma Beach popular among surfers, who have come here for years—even before there were food stands and public restrooms—to carve and dry their wetsuits under the warmth of the bright sun. Besides riding waves, it’s ideal for beach picnics (locals know to grab burritos from Lily’s) and swimming in the Pacific Ocean.
Where To Stay:
The Surfrider Malibu: Perched along the Pacific Coast Highway, this old-school motor lodge turned 20-key boutique hotel evokes the free-spirited zest of road trips past while ushering in a new era of SoCal cool. Décor—much of it locally made—nods to Malibu surf culture. The guests-only rooftop serves up ceviche, margaritas and ocean vistas.
Malibu Beach Inn: This swish seaside retreat is lauded for its contemporary, coastal rooms featuring private balconies, beach club and Billionaire’s Beach address. If your dream vacation involves waking up to the sound of crashing waves and doing a cold plunge in the Pacific Ocean, there’s no better place.
Hotel June: A five-minute drive from Zuma Beach, Hotel June is a chic and casual crash pad for chilling in hammocks, sipping poolside co*cktails and snoozing in beautifully designed mid-century bungalows after a day spent catching rays.
Miami Beach
Miami Beach, Florida
Who Will Love It: Sun worshippers; partiers
All-Star Attractions: Miami Beach Botanical Garden; Lincoln Road; Collins Avenue
What Not To Miss: Snapping a photo in front of the lifeguard stations
Where To Stay: The Setai, Miami Beach; 1 Hotel South Beach; W South Beach
Florida is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country—but none more sizzling than Miami Beach. Backed by a seven-mile boardwalk that’s always bustling with sun-tanned locals and visitors on bikes, rollerblades and their own two feet, the palm-fringed stretch of golden sand and turquoise water with blue skies defines South Florida. Lifeguards are always on duty—and the colorful lifeguard stations have even become a popular backdrop for photos. Lounge chairs and umbrellas are available to rent.
Where To Stay:
The Setai Miami Beach: For an ultra-luxurious overnight, reserve one of the Art Deco rooms—or, even better, an ocean suite—at The Setai. Guests staying at this exclusive South Beach oasis have access to three pools, a private beach club and a brand-new Japanese restaurant.
1 Hotel South Beach: True to the brand’s well-defined ethos, the South Beach offshoot of the 1 Hotel franchise is a case study in biophilic design. It’s also a wellness mecca with a renowned Bamford Wellness Spa, mindful classes like sunrise yoga and a plant-based eatery that’s open exclusively for guests.
W South Beach: A long-time staple of the South Beach hotel scene, the W owes its continued popularity to a mix of fun experiences (hands-on co*cktail-making class, anyone?), an unbeatable location right by the beach and renovated ocean-view rooms that ooze contemporary style.
Kapalua Bay Beach
Kapalua Bay Beach, Hawaii
Who Will Love It: Watersport fanatics; eco-adventurers
All-Star Attractions: Kapalua Coastal Trail; D.T. Fleming Park; Merriman's Kapalua
What Not To Miss: Snorkeling with sea turtles
Where To Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Maui Kapalua; Montage Kapalua Bay, Hale Napili
Hawaii is spoiled with incredible beaches, but you can’t beat beautiful Kapalua Bay Beach for kayaking, boogie boarding and stand-up paddle boarding. Besides watersports, this tranquil cove on the northwestern tip of the island presents opportunities for snorkeling alongside sea turtles and colorful parrot fish in the warm, clear water. In terms of amenities, restrooms and showers by the parking lot up the convenience factor.
Where To Stay:
The Ritz-Carlton Maui Kapalua: Renowned as one of the most luxurious resorts in Maui, The Ritz-Carlton is a bastion of relaxation and refinement. It’s a place that beckons guests to float in the huge three-tiered pool, unwind under beachfront casabellas, play tennis on the ocean-view courts and let stress melt away with botanical massages.
Montage Kapalua Bay: One of the best luxury resorts both for families with kids and couples seeking romance, this five-star sanctuary along Namalu Bay has something for everyone—from hula lessons and lei making for children to spa treatments and co*cktails at Hana Hou Bar that are guaranteed to delight grown-up guests.
Hale Napili: While Kapalua is an expensive destination, travelers on a budget can still enjoy the many charms of Maui's most privileged vacation area without breaking at the bank at this well-priced condo hotel complete with fully-equipped apartments, shuffleboard and direct beach access.
Platte River Point Beach
Platte River Point Beach, Michigan
Who Will Love It: Nature lovers; families
All-Star Attractions: Dune Climb; Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
What Not To Miss: Seeing plover nesting areas (just keep a respectful distance)
Where To Stay: The Round Haven on Big Glen Lake; Quiet Studio on Lake Michigan; Glen Arbor Bed & Breakfast and Cottages
Not all beaches are on the ocean, and Platte River Point Beach, part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, is proof of that. Anyone familiar with popular Michigan travel destinations has likely heard of this scenic spot in the Wolverine State. In the summertime, it hums with daytrippers who go to kayak, stand-up paddleboard, tube and swim in the shallow water, roast marshmallows around the campfire and pose for photos in front of the dunes.
Where To Stay:
The Round Haven on Big Glen Lake: Keen to travel more sustainably? Book this stylish, energy-efficient round home on two scenic acres in the heart of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore. Eco-friendly upgrades include zero VOC paint, furniture crafted with reclaimed materials, reverse osmosis filtered water for drinking and a compost system.
Quiet Studio on Lake Michigan: Solo travelers and duos who don’t need a ton of space will like this quiet, well-designed little studio. There’s a kitchen with a mini fridge stashing snacks and drinks and a stove for cooking quick meals to enjoy on the patio before and after hitting the trail and the beach.
Glen Arbor Bed & Breakfast and Cottages: With an intimate size, heaps of homespun charm and Midwestern hospitality, this quaint B&B is tailor-made for a peaceful getaway near the beaches of Lake Michigan. It consists of five individually decorated rooms and suites, plus two cottages for extra privacy. The gourmet breakfast is a delicious way to start the day.
Paine's Creek Beach
Paine’s Creek Beach, Massachusetts
Who Will Love It: Families with young children
All-Star Attractions: Cape Cod Museum Of Natural History; Crowes Pasture Conservation Area
What Not To Miss: Walking on the flats at low tide
Where To Stay: The Mansion at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club; Candleberry Inn; The Sandpiper
A trip to Cape Cod is a time-honored summer right of passage for New Englanders. Families flock to popular Paine's Creek Beach, a halcyon inlet hangout for building sandcastles (just remember to bring shovels and buckets) and swimming. The small tidal pools here are particularly well suited for tots, while older children can try skimboarding on the flats. There’s even a natural lazy river for tubing, and the little ones (and parents, too) are sure to enjoy the ice cream truck that comes by in the summer to dole out sweet treats.
Where To Stay:
The Mansion at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club: This property is set on a sprawling resort that’s chock full of amenities, including a swimming pools, a tennis complex, a beach bar, a spa and a golf course. The well-heeled guest rooms and suites in The Mansion are an elevated place to call home for a few days.
Candleberry Inn: Built in the late 1700s and listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, this storied inn serves up classic Cape Cod charm and heritage in spades. Niceties like 600 thread count sheets, plush robes and a gourmet breakfast elevate the experience.
The Sandpiper: This remodeled cottage has a well-stocked kitchen, a light-drenched living room and a comfy bedroom. It’s across the street from Cobie’s for authentic lobster rolls and a short ride from the Cape Cod Rail Trail.
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Who Will Love It: Photographers; birders
All-Star Attractions: Ecola State Park; Hug Point State Recreation Site
What Not To Miss: A photo opp at Haystack Rock
Where To Stay: The Ocean Lodge; Inn at Cannon Beach; Cannon Beach Cottage
The name of both the beloved Oregon destination and the cinematic stretch of protected shoreline, Cannon Beach is home to one of the most recognizable and photographed attractions in the state. From the moment you lay eyes on Haystack Rock, it’s hard not to grab a camera and start clicking away. The basalt sea stack rises 235 feet and commands the lion’s share of attention, though there are plenty of other interesting natural phenomena to witness, too—including a colony of tufted puffins and tide pools teeming with sea stars, anemones, crabs and limpets.
Where To Stay:
The Ocean Lodge: This oceanfront hotel is steps away from iconic Haystack Rock. Even if the location on the Oregon coast wasn’t so terrific, it would still earn our vote for well-appointed rooms with gas fireplaces and king-size beds and thoughtful touches like evening wine receptions and fresh-baked cookies in the lobby.
Inn at Cannon Beach: This inn in the heart of Cannon Beach has all the makings of an easygoing escape. Start the day with breakfast before spending a day at the beach. When the sun starts to set, sip a glass of wine in the Adirondack chairs and cap off the night cozying up by the fire pits.
Cannon Beach Cottage: When days are filled with beach walks and bird spotting, nights don’t require much. This airy cottage ticks all the boxes with sophisticated nautical décor, comfy beds, a deck with a dining table and grill and a location just steps from the beach, as well as a short 10-minute walk to downtown.
Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Who Will Love It: Entertainment enthusiasts; budget travelers
All-Star Attractions: The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium; Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum
What Not To Miss: The free oceanfront concert series
Where To Stay: Moxy Hotel Virginia Beach; Hyatt Place Virginia Beach / Oceanfront; The Beach Nest
As the summer season kicks off, Virginia Beach begins to buzz with seasonal events and entertainment. All that excitement centers around one place in particular: the Virginia Beach oceanfront, a lively strip of Atlantic real estate known for its sand, surf and seaside fun. Rollerbladers, runners and families with carts full of beach day provisions share the three-mile boardwalk. Kids fresh out of the water run up to ask their parents for hot dogs and snow cones from the local vendors. At night, free concerts and the Beach Blanket Cinema draw crowds.
Where To Stay:
Moxy Hotel Virginia Beach: The Moxy might just be the liveliest crash pad in Virginia Beach. The rooms are cool and contemporary—some even have bunk beds for kids and crews. Live music, foosball and a slide in the lobby add to the good-time energy.
Hyatt Place Virginia Beach / Oceanfront: Another well-priced option in the thick of things, the Hyatt Place welcomes a mix of families, friend groups and couples thanks to modern rooms with balconies overlooking the boardwalk, an outdoor pool and a perch steps from the sand.
The Beach Nest: For folks who prefer a cozy beach cottage to a hotel room, this adorable Airbnb comes with all the comforts of home as well as vacation essentials such as beach chairs, an umbrella and bikes. The best part? It’s located just a half-mile from the oceanfront and boardwalk.
Monterey State Beach
Monterey State Beach, California
Who Will Love It: Paragliders; families
All-Star Attractions: Monterey Bay Aquarium; Old Fisherman's Wharf; Dennis The Menace Playground
What Not To Miss: Watching paragliders
Where To Stay: Sanctuary Beach Resort; Green Gables Inn; Hampton Inn Monterey
Monterey State Beach offers a scenic backdrop for recreational activities, from fishing to kayaking. If you want to watch thrill seekers gliding through the air—and maybe even join in on the action—you’ll have a front row seat to coastal paragliders launching off on the Seaside end. It’s also a great spot to bring the family for beachcombing, tide-pooling, swimming and seaside strolls. Dogs are allowed on leash.
Where To Stay:
Sanctuary Beach Resort: Nestled amid rolling dunes, this celebrated resort leans into its coastal environs with eco-conscious volleyball courts made from recycled oyster shells, plus activities such as jazz nights on the ocean-facing lawn, seaside yoga and beach bonfires.
Green Gables Inn: Occupying a Victorian house dating to 1888, this recently renovated inn feels like a contemporary coastal refuge meets historic hideaway. There are just a handful of individually decorated accommodations. The Chapel Rooms show off details like original trim work and paned windows.
Hampton Inn Monterey: A great overnight option for budget travelers and families needing connecting rooms, the Hampton Inn is clean, comfortable and modern with reasonable rates and a convenient location near Monterey State Beach, Fisherman's Wharf and downtown Monterey.
About Lindsay Cohn, Your U.S. Beaches Guide
I'm a travel journalist with over a decade of professional experience writing, editing and jet-setting. My passion for seeing the world has taken me to 46 countries across six continents—and counting. Whether I’m exploring somewhere new or returning to a familiar favorite, I’m always vetting the best boutique hotels, wine bars and juice shops. When I'm not writing, you can find me doing yoga, hanging with my son and planning a trip to one of the destinations on my ever-growing bucket list, including many beach destinations. In addition to Forbes Vetted, my work has appeared on Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, InsideHook, The Zoe Report, Hotels Above Par, TripAdvisor, PureWow, ELLE Decor and more.
