The Best Beach in Every US State

Best Beach in Every US State: The United States is blessed with thousands of miles of coastline across two massive oceans and the Gulf of Mexico. From the renowned beaches of California and Florida to the hidden gems found in states like Oregon and Maine, America has no shortage of spectacular shores to explore.

Whether you prefer soft white sand or glittering black expanses, tranquil lagoons or towering waves, lively strips dotted with restaurants and bars or secluded spots far from the crowds, the country has beaches to satisfy every taste.

To help you discover the very best stretch of sand in each of the states as a Travelohlic, we’ve put together this ultimate beach bucket list. Keep reading to find your new favorite spot to soak up some sun.

  1. Alabama – Gulf Shores

Sugary white sand that stays cool underfoot, warm gulf waters with gentle waves, and a lively beach town make Gulf Shores a can’t-miss in Alabama. Stretch out on the 6 miles of beach, play volleyball, or try water sports like paddleboarding and parasailing. Refuel at one of the excellent restaurants serving fresh coastal cuisine.

  1. Alaska – Homer Spit Beach

Located on a 4.5-mile natural spit of land jutting into Kachemak BayHomer Spit Beach is like no other in Alaska. Its warmer location offers mild weather by Alaskan standards, and the striking views of the glaciers, mountains and marine wildlife make you feel far from civilization.

  1. Arizona – Papago Park Beach | Travelohlic Paradise

Nestled against red rock cliffs in Tempe, this urban oasis in the desert feels worlds away. The small sandy beach provides swimming areas along Tempe Town Lake, which is actually a dammed portion of the Salt River. Rent kayaks, paddleboards or hydrobikes to get out on the water.

  1. Arkansas – Caddo Bend Beach

Along the shore of DeGray Lake, Caddo Bend Beach thrills visitors with its clear waters, white sand and secluded setting. The beach feels peaceful and remote, but offers plenty of amenities like chair and umbrella rentals. Hiking trails around the lake provide opportunities to take in more of the scenery.

  1. California – Coronado Beach

With its fine golden sand, mild year-round climate, calm surf and charming community, Coronado Beach lives up to its reputation as one of the country’s top beaches. Play volleyball in Hotel del Coronado’s courts, search for seashells, or rent a bike and cruise the scenic shoreline path as a Travelohlic.

  1. Colorado – Raspberry Beach

Though landlocked, Colorado still boasts beautiful beach options like Raspberry Beach at Ruby Horsethief Canyon. The expansive beach lined with red sandstone rocks feels like an oasis, with calm waters perfect for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding. Picnic under a shade structure after working up an appetite in the sun.

  1. Connecticut – Hammonasset Beach State Park

Two miles of protected shoreline make Hammonasset Beach a Connecticut gem. Its clean sands, designated swimming areas, and abundance of facilities like showers and changing rooms make for an easy, enjoyable beach day. Nature lovers will appreciate over 900 acres to explore via hiking trails.

  1. Delaware – Rehoboth Beach

With its iconic wooden boardwalk and charming town, Rehoboth Beach has been a beloved summer escape for generations. Beyond sunbathing and swimming, visitors flock to the rides and games on the mile-long boardwalk and the diverse eateries around town. Due to its popularity, Rehoboth beach can get crowded in high season.

  1. Florida – Siesta Beach

It’s tough to choose just one Florida beach, but Siesta Key’s famous Siesta Beach stands out even among the state’s many treasures. The beach is perfectly family-friendly with amenities, a relaxed vibe, gentle waves, and baby powder-fine quartz sand that stays cool underfoot. The iconic sunsets alone are worth the trip.

  1. Georgia – Tybee Island

Just 18 miles from Savannah, Tybee Island offers a quintessential seaside escape. Three miles of golden sand line the shores, perfect for digging your toes in. Rent a bike or kayak, climb the famous Tybee Lighthouse, or charter a boat to fish or spot dolphins dancing in the waves offshore.

  1. Hawaii – Hapuna Beach State Park

On Hawaii’s Big Island, Hapuna Beach’s flawless half-mile stretch of ultrasoft white sand and shimmering turquoise water creates a piece of tropical perfection. With crystal-clear visibility, it’s excellent for snorkeling and swimming. Lifeguards and amenities make for a safe, comfortable visit. Sunrise and sunset are spectacular here.

  1. Idaho – Bear Lake State Park Beach

Sparkling blue waters offset by snow-capped peaks make Bear Lake Beach an Idaho treasure. Swimming and paddle sports are popular in summer, while winter transforms the lake into an ice fishing haven. Sandy beaches, cottonwood trees and the dramatic scenery entice visitors year-round.

  1. Illinois – North Beach

On the shores of Lake Michigan just north of Chicago, North Beach delights visitors with soft sand, rolling waves and gorgeous lake and skyline views. Grab some tacos from the beachside food stands, play beach volleyball or set up for a day of sunbathing. Just remember Chicago beach days can be a bit brisk!

  1. Indiana – Porter Beach

Easygoing and family-friendly, Porter Beach at Indiana Dunes State Park offers swimming, lounging and miles of hiking in the surrounding dunes. A short walk takes you to the shore of Lake Michigan and perfect sand. Nearby you’ll also find the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center and Mount Baldy sand dune.

  1. Iowa – West Lake Park Beach

In Iowa’s capital city, West Lake Park Beach spans over a mile of shoreline on the southwest edge of Des Moines. Lifeguards, concession stands and plenty of amenities make for smooth sailing once you’ve scored the perfect spot on the sand. Open grassy areas mean there’s space for everyone.

16.Kansas – Mein Schellengberger Park Beach

In the Kansas countryside, this hidden retreat dazzles with its unexpected white sand beach nestled against a tree-lined lake. Visitors rave about the beach’s soft sand, swimming area, and relaxing atmosphere. Picnic facilities and playground equipment add to the amenities.

  1. Kentucky – Greenbo Lake State Resort Park Beach

Nestled deep in the Daniel Boone National Forest, Greenbo Lake’s beach and cool mountain lake water offer a secluded oasis during hot Kentucky summers. Picnic or set up camp along the shoreline, build sandcastles, swim from the gradual beach, or rent a boat and head out fishing for the day.

  1. Louisiana – Holly Beach

Remote and pristine, Holly Beach provides a coastal escape on Louisiana’s Gulf Coast away from the big city crowds. Its remote location in the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road means these 7.5 miles stay blissfully uncrowded. Explore the beach, go fishing or kayaking through the estuaries.

  1. Maine – Sand Beach

One of Maine’s most beautiful and popular beaches, Sand Beach lies within Acadia National Park. Its combination of fine sand, striking rocky coastline and views out into the wild North Atlantic create an unforgettable shoreline. Come early to stake out a spot on busy summer days.

  1. Maryland – North Beach

TravelohlicJust over an hour from D.C., North Beach offers convenient access to a peaceful bayfront retreat. Families love building sandcastles, playing games on the sand and swimming in the calm water. A boardwalk lined with shops and restaurants connects the sandy shore to the charming coastal town of North Beach.

  1. Massachusetts – Coast Guard Beach

Part of the stunning Cape Cod National Seashore, Coast Guard Beach seduces with its wide expanse of soft sand and aquamarine water ideal for swimming. Natural dunes and salt marshes surround the beach, where you might catch a glimpse of dolphins or seals offshore if you’re lucky.

  1. Michigan – Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Hiking stellar trails leading to secluded stretches of snow-white sand and cerulean waters make a trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes unforgettable. Scale the towering dunes, hunt for Petoskey stones or ooh and ahh at the glass-smooth beach pebbles massaged into their distinctive shapes by the waves.

  1. Minnesota – Park Point Beach

Separating Lake Superior from Minnesota’s largest inland lake, the 7-mile spit of Park Point Beach offers a peaceful, natural retreat from urban Duluth. Walk through peaceful forests or along the unmatched freshwater coastline, watching the big ships navigating through the harbor entrance.

  1. Mississippi – Gulf Islands National Seashore

Though often overlooked, Mississippi has best beach options, like Gulf Islands National Seashore. Its barrier islands feature snow-white sand beaches facing the Gulf of Mexico, unspoiled by high-rise resorts. The tranquil setting offers a coastal escape abundant with nature and outdoor recreation opportunities.