7 Best beach vacations in the USA

Planning a seaside getaway? We’ve got the very best beach vacations in the USA. Whether you’re travelling as a family, in a couple or solo, these are the beaches across America that will win you over with crashing waves and soft sand.

From cheap beach vacations to all-out luxury, these are the places you’ll want to spend every single summer (and spring, winter, and fall!)…

Best beach vacations in the USA, How do these rankings work?

1. Nantucket, Massachussetts

Nantucket has more than its fair share of spectacular beaches, with none more beautiful than Madaket Beach. It’s located on the far west coast of the island and has a relaxed vibe. Ditch the car and cycle out to this beach for one of the best sunsets you’ll ever see.

2. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores is one of the best beach vacations in America thanks to its relaxed vibe and great food.

Close to Fort Morgan beach, Orange Beach is a sugar-white sand beach made almost entirely of fine, quartz grains washed down from the Appalachian Mountains thousands of years ago. It’s livelier than Fort Morgan, yet still looks unspoiled with crystal clear waters and gleaming sand.

3. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Named one of the world’s 100 most beautiful places by National Geographic, this remarkable beach has long sandy stretches, tide pools and the famous Haystack Rock. Sure, it has a cool marine climate most of the year, but with scenery this incredible, who minds a bit of a breeze?

4. The Hamptons, New York

It’s not summer in New York without seeing a million photos on social media of the East End looking bouj AF. The Hamptons has endless amazing beaches: Cooper’s Beach consistently receives high rankings on the lists of the best beaches in America, no doubt due to the white sandy shore along the Atlantic Ocean.

The fresh lobster rolls and vineyards are an extra bonus!

5. Newport, Rhode Island

If you’re looking for classic Colonial architecture and breathtaking New England landscapes, Newport is for you. The charming, coastal New England town of Newport is home to fresh seafood, inviting inns and resorts, beaches and plenty of ways to enjoy the water.

Plus, it’s good value for money, making it one of the best cheap beach vacations in the States.

6. Hawaii

From the hustle and bustle of Oahu to the romance of Maui and off-the-beaten-path adventures on Lanai and Molokai, the Hawaiian Islands are pure paradise. Explore colourful canyons and waterfalls and eat your bodyweight in fresh Poke.

It’s impossible to pick just one spot here, so try to tour the islands and see as many places as you can.

7. Miami, Florida

Miami is an ideal beach destination with a party vibe and golden sand. South Beach (SoBe) sums up Miami to tee – it’s trendy and quirky with a glittering nightlife. Chill out at the beach itself or take in South Beach’s historic Art Deco architecture.

South Beach also has a whimsical collection of colourful lifeguard huts – a definite must-see. It’s fun and totally unique to Miami.