50 Best Beaches in the U.S.

With summer just around the corner and thousands of beaches across the United States, it can be nearly impossible to pick a few to visit. From well-known tourist destinations to hidden gems, there are an abundance of stunning beaches that offer just the right amount of sun – and fun – for you and you loved ones. Here are some of the best beaches in the United States that you should check out this season.

Waikiki Beach, Hawai’i

When you think of a tropical paradise, it is no surprise that Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawai’i would probably be the first location that comes to mind. Here, you can enjoy surfing or sailing along the waters, learn about the area’s sea creatures at the Waikiki Aquarium, or take a group yoga class while soaking up the sun.

Lanikai Beach, Hawai’i

The word “lanikai” translates to “heavenly ocean” in Hawaiian, and once you visit Lanikai Beach in Kailua, Hawai’i, you’ll understand why. This secluded beach is perfect for kayaking along the crystal clear waters, encountering green sea turtles and fish while snorkeling, or watching the sunrise with the Mokulua Islands in the distance.

Clearwater Beach, Florida

Clearwater Beach, Florida, may dazzle with its impeccable white sands and inviting waters, but there’s more to this location than just its beaches. In addition to sitting back and relaxing along the shore, there are hundreds of activities available that are fun for the whole family. You can get face to face with rescued dolphins, sharks and other marine animals at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, take a pirate-themed cruise while soaking up the scenic views, or visit some of the numerous restaurants in town.

South Beach, Miami, Florida

If you’ve ever been on a “spring break” vacation, or have college-age kids that have gone on one of these trips with their friends, then you’ve likely heard about South Beach in Miami, Florida. Known for its vibrant nightlife and art deco architecture, South Beach is a hub for sunbathers and party-goers alike. You can shop until you drop at the Lincoln Shopping District, take a stroll in Haulover Park, or dance the night away at some of the area’s night clubs and dive bars.

Coronado Beach, California

Located just a short drive away from San Diego, Coronado Beach is the perfect place for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family beach vacation. You can surf, paddle board or boogie board in the tranquil waters, or sunbathe while surrounded the beach’s sparkling sands. This destination is also ideal if you’re a classic movie buff. Coronado Beach is home to the iconic Hotel del Coronado, which is featured in Marilyn Monroe’s 1958 film “Some Like it Hot.”

Santa Monica Beach, California

Located just west of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica Beach is a prime example of what people picture when they think of southern California state beaches. With over 3.5 miles of sandy shores and bike trails, this beach offers a variety of activities and attractions that are fun for everyone. In addition to its famous pier that features an amusement park, an aquarium and a Ferris wheel, there are also bike rentals, volleyball court and plenty of dining options.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

If you’re looking for a beach that has unforgettable, breathtaking views, then Cannon Beach, Oregon is the ideal vacation spot for you. This beach is home to Haystack Rock, one of Oregon’s most recognizable landmarks that is home to colorful tidepools and diverse birdlife. If nature watching isn’t your thing, the downtown area of Cannon Beach has over a dozen art galleries and a public art tour that features everything from watercolor, bronze sculpture, modern and pop art, and glass-blown treasures.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Although this resort city in South Carolina has over 60 miles of continuous beach shoreline, Myrtle Beach has a ton of activities for the whole family that is nearly impossible to see and do all in one trip. You can take a ride on the SkyWheel ferris wheel at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, get up close and personal with tigers, elephants and monkeys at the Myrtle Beach Safari, or cool off at one of the cities several water parks.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

For a typical New England summer experience, look no further than Cape Cod, Massachusetts. This iconic beach town offers a variety of fun activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. You can swim, sunbathe, kayak or paddle board along the coast of the area’s numerous picturesque beaches, or see lighthouses and cranberry bogs while hiking along the Cape Cod National Seashore. If you consider yourself a foodie, you’re in luck; visitors can indulge in fresh seafood – and, of course, lobster rolls – at one of the many seafood shacks and restaurants in the area,

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Although Rehoboth Beach may be small, this beach on the Delaware coast has something for everyone to enjoy, no matter what your interests may be. In addition to lounging around in the sands, you can explore Cate Henlopen State Park, where where you can hike along nature trails and enjoy beautiful views of the ocean. If you or your loved ones want a break from the beach, check out Funland, a family-owned and operated amusement park that features over 19 rides, 16 carnival games and an arcade!

Destin, Florida

Located along the Gulf of Mexico, Destin, Florida, is the perfect spot for an exciting beach vacation. Not only are there a multitude of white sand beaches you can go to to soak up the sun, but there are a wide range of fun activities you can explore in between your lounging sessions. This town is known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” so if you’re looking for your next big catch, you can book a charter boat to go fishing along the Gulf of Mexico. If fishing isn’t for you, you can also go on a dolphin sunset cruise or get your zen on at a paddle board yoga class.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Just a short, scenic drive away from the historic Savannah, Georgia, Tybee Island is known for being one of the most unique and colorful beach towns in the U.S. This three square mile town is jam-packed with plenty of restaurants, shops, saltwater marshes and, of course, sandy shores! For an adventure-filled trip, you can take surfing lessons or take a beach ecology walk with a marine biologist. If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, consider visiting the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, where you can learn about the lighthouse that has guided ariners safe entrance into the Savannah River for over 285 years.

Hanauma Bay, Hawai’i

Known for its calm, shallow waters, Hanauma Bay, Hawai’i is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Its curved shores and shallow waters help to protect the area from large ocean swells, making this bay a popular spot for snorkeling and marine life viewing. What better way is there is to get up close and personal with sea turtles, Moray eels and Reef Triggerfish, and more? Just remember to plan your visit accordingly, since the park is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Siesta Key, Florida

Siesta Key, Florida is a lively beach town that offers a variety of fun activities for everyone to enjoy. For a laid-back experience, you can explore the charming shops and restaurants in Siesta Key Village, or take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic pathways. If you or your family are looking for a typical jam-packed beach day, you can rent a boat or fishing charter, go parasailing or wakeboarding, or make some music (or dance along to it) at the Siesta Key Drum Circle.

Twelvemile Beach, Michigan

If your idea of a perfect vacation involves sitting around the campfire, watching the night sky while you and your loved ones make s’mores, consider adding Twelvemile Beach in northern Michigan. Located in the heart of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, this 12-mile long stretch of sandy shores is home to one of the most stunning natural sites in the country, with its colorful limestone cliffs lined along the shore of Lake Superior. Here, you can explore the park’s nearby hiking trails, observe the local wildlife, or enjoy a nice picnic while taking in the beauty of the beach.

Pfeiffer Beach, California

Tucked away along the rugged Big Sur coastline, Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur, California, is famous for its purple sands and stunning sea caves. Here, you can take a dip in the waters to cool off, or go on a leisurely walk along the shoreline while searching for colorful rocks and shells. For the photography connoisseurs, or for those looking to take the perfect vacation picture for their Instagram, check out the Keyhole Arch rock during sunset. When the light hits this rock, an array of colors shine on the rocks, the water and the sands, making this a view you wouldn’t want to miss.

Huntington Beach, California

This well-known beach in southern California is nicknamed as “Surf City USA,” and for a good reason. Huntington Beach is known for its calm waters, year-round mild climate, and vibrant surf culture, which is why it is no wonder that it is home to over 50 surf contests yearly, including the legendary US Open of Surfing. However, with over 10 miles of sandy beaches, this area is packed with activities for visitors of all ages that don’t involve surfing. If you’re an animal lover, you can make some new furry friends at the Huntington Dog Beach, or explore the wildlife at the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

You likely may have heard of Outer Banks, North Carolina, from the hit Netflix series of the same name, but there’s more to this string of barrier islands than just teenage drama. This area is well-known for being home to groups of wild horses that have roamed the Outer Banks for hundreds of years, so if you’re up to it, you can take an adventure tour where you can ride an off-road vehicle while seeing these horses in their natural habitat. Additionally, if any of your loved ones are history buffs, there are several lighthouses and museums available to explore that offer a glimpse into the region’s maritime past.

Sand Beach, Acadia National Park, Maine

This beach on the coast of Maine may be small, but what Acadia National Park’s Sand Beach may lack in size, it definitely makes up for it in its beauty. This stretch of sand is surrounded by rocky cliffs and nestled in between two mountains, making it a picturesque destination that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. While swimming may be the most popular activity at this location, Sand Beach is near a multitude of hiking trails, including the Great Head Trail and the Beehive Loop, that provide stunning views of both the ocean and the mountains while you’re off on an adventure.

Cape May, New Jersey

When summer comes around, you may have heard of people taking trips out to the Jersey Shore for a fun weekend getaway. If you’re looking to incorporate some charm and history while living out your Jersey Shore summer experience, consider visiting Cape May in the southernmost point of New Jersey. In addition to typical beach activities, you can stroll through the area’s historic district lined with dazzling Victorian-style mansions, or climb to the top of Cape May Lighthouse while you learn about how the lighthouse functions historically and today.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

With an endless amount of sights, activities, and natural beauty, Gulf Shores, Alabama provides the ideal spot for fun and relaxation for the whole family. If you’re the type of person to look for more quirky, unconventional experiences during a trip, this beach town has got you covered. Here, you can play with lemurs at the Madagascar Adventure closure of the Alabama Gulf Cost Zoo, live like a pirate for a day on a pirate ship cruise, and even dine in a stack of shipping containers at the restaurant The Gulf.

La Jolla Cove, California

Southern California may have its crystal-clear waters and warm climate that makes it an ideal destination for a beach vacation, but if your favorite part of the beach involves all of its marine life, then La Jolla Cove is the perfect place for you. The waters that surround this coastal inlet are home to a vast amount of wildlife, including sharks, sea lions and dolphins. You can go scuba diving or snorkeling to explore the area’s underwater sea caves while seeing the marine life up close. If you’d rather stay above water, kayaking and paddle-boarding are great options to explore the stunning coastline and spot sea lions and dolphins.

Ocean City, Maryland

Vacations are a great time to get away from the chaos of everyday life and relax, it’s also an amazing opportunity to try new dishes you’ve never heard of, or indulge in the food you love. If that sounds like you, consider taking a trip to Ocean City, Maryland, this summer. From seafood to farm-to-table cuisine, there’s something to please every palate. You can find classic fare like saltwater taffy and fudge at the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk, or enjoy some iconic Maryland crab cakes at seafood restaurants like Blue Crab House & Raw Bar or On the Bay Seafood.

Montauk, New York

Located at the eastern tip of Long Island, Montauk, New York is a a popular summer destination for surfers, fishermen, and beachgoers seeking a laid-back beach town atmosphere. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing in the surrounding area, including Montauk Point State Park, where the Montauk Point Lighthouse and Montauk Lighthouse Museum are located. The town also has a vibrant dining scene, with plenty of restaurants serving up fresh seafood, local produce, and, of course, freshly baked treats!

South Padre Island, Texas

This barrier island located along the Texas Gulf Coast may be small, but with its year-round sunshine, bright blue waters and endless amount of activities, the fun never seems to stop at South Padre Island, Texas. You can take a dip in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, or get a little adventurous by trying water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. If you consider yourself a nature lover, then you’re in luck; the South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center is a great place to observe and learn about all of the unique plants, animals and, of course, birds that call this island home.

Oak Street Beach, Chicago, Illinois

Usually you would have to leave urban areas to find the perfect shoreline for your beach getaway, but in Chicago, Illinois, the nearest beach is just a quick train ride or walk away. The impressive Chicago skyline serves as the backdrop for Oak Street Beach, which is located on the shores of Lake Michigan. Not only can you lounge around in the sands or take a swim or ride a boat on the waters, there are also a variety of food to try from local vendors nearby. What better way to enjoy your summer vacation than with a Chicago-style hot dog in hand?

Coney Island Beach, Brooklyn, New York

Located in the southernmost part of Brooklyn in New York City, Coney Island has been the center of seaside amusement for city residents and tourists for hundreds of years. Most people recognize Coney Island for its iconic boardwalk, and once you step foot on it, you’ll understand why. One of the most popular most popular attractions is Luna Park, an amusement park with thrilling rides such as the Cyclone roller coaster and the Wonder Wheel. The boardwalk is also lined with well-known eateries like Nathan’s Famous hot dogs – which is also where the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest takes place!

Ogunquit, Maine

If you or your loved ones are in search for a “beautiful place by the sea,” considering giving Ogunquit, Maine a try; it’s in the meaning of the word “Ogunquit,” after all! From boutique shopping to beach lounging and everything in between, this little coastal town has something for everyone. You can find the perfect brunch spot at some of the many cafes and waterfront restaurants in town and then take some time to relax at the town’s long white sandy beach. Ogunquit is also known for its picturesque Marginal Way, a scenic cliff walk that offers stunning views of the ocean and rocky coast, so don’t forget to check it out while you’re there!

Medano Creek, Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

You may think that with a name like “Great Sand Dunes,” there would be no beaches at Great Sand Dunes National Park in southern Colorado, but you would be surely mistaken. Inside this national park is Medano Creek, a wide, shallow creek that emerges every spring due to the runoff from snow in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and disappears every August. You can splash around in the creek’s shallow waters or build sandcastles while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding sand dunes and mountains.

Coligny Beach, Hilton Head, South Carolina

From its beautiful weather to impressive beaches and various exciting outdoor activities, there is so much to look forward to when you visit Hilton Head, South Carolina. One of the best places to visit while you and your loved ones are exploring the island is Coligny Beach, which offers the perfect amount of fun and relaxation for people of all ages. Here, you can spend the day soaking up the sun, swimming in the cool waters of the Atlantic Ocean, or play some beach volleyball at some of the beach’s volleyball courts. If your idea of a vacation includes shopping until you drop, you can also explore the nearby Coligny Plaza, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. 

Honokalani Beach, Hawai’i

Hawai’i is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes, and Honokalani Beach on the island of Maui is no exception to this. What makes this particular beach stand out from others on this island is its jet-black sand, which is made up of tiny lava pebbles formed from volcanic activity that has flowed, cooled and hardened over thousands of years. Not only is Honokalani Beach the perfect place to get a picture of the sands and the vibrant blue hues of the Pacific Ocean, there are also multiple hiking trials and fishing spots that you can explore while taking in the beauty of this beach.

Jones Beach State Park, New York

When the sun comes out, the weather warms up and the days get longer, most native Long Islanders will tell you about one place that is perfect for a beach day or weekend getaway – Jones Beach State Park, of course! Located on the southern shores of Long Island, New York, this park has plenty of sandy shores and a boardwalk with ice cream and hot dogs galore. For music lovers, Jones Park is ideal because of its iconic concert venue, Jones Beach Theater. Here, you can see artists like Dave Matthews Band, Alanis Morrisette and Lynyrd Skynyrd live while taking in the views of the ocean in the distance.

Stinson Beach, California

Located just a short drive away from San Francisco, California, Stinson Beach is a charming seaside town that is known for more than just its picturesque beach.  Whether you’re a food connoisseur, outdoor enthusiast, or simply happy to check out a new place, Stinson Beach has something that everyone will love. Hiking enthusiasts will love exploring the nearby Mount Tamalpais State Park, which offers a variety of trails with breathtaking views of the coast. You can also enjoy a delicious meal at some of the area’s beachfront restaurants or cafes, or view some local art exhibits at places like the Stinson Beach Gallery.

Alki Beach, Seattle, Washington

If you’re looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life without having to leave the city, Alki Beach in Seattle, Washington. This family-friendly beach on Puget not only offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and downtown Seattle, but also a multitude of activities that everyone can enjoy. For those looking to be more active, there are options for beach volleyball, paddle-boarding, and kayaking. The beachfront path is also perfect for biking or rollerblading. If you don’t consider yourself an active type, not to worry; there are plenty of restaurants and cafes along the beach where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a cup of local Seattle-style coffee.

Crystal Lake State Park, Barton, Vermont

Although this lakeside beach in northern Vermont is on the smaller side, it is rich in history. Crystal Lake State Park’s history dates all the way back to the 1700’s, where it played a crucial role in one of the battles during the French and Indian War. Today, people from all over the United States come to visit this park for its scenic mountains and crystal-clear waters. Fishing enthusiasts will also love Crystal Lake, as it is full of trout, bass and perch, making it great or anyone who prefers to spend their beach days casting a line to catch the perfect fish.

Bethany Beach, Delaware

Nestled between the popular resort towns of Rehoboth Beach and Ocean City, Bethany Beach offers a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere with wide sandy beaches, a charming boardwalk, and plenty of water sports activities. You can visit the town’s nature center to view the area’s species of wild birds, reptiles and amphibians while learning about the Inland Bays and Wetlands, take a yoga or pilates class on the beach, or check out the area’s farmers market that occurs every Sunday morning. There are also plenty of golf courses surrounding the town of Bethany Beach, so if you’re a golf enthusiast, you’ll have plenty of time to practice your swing while soaking up the sun.

Newport, Rhode Island

Still looking for a place to experience a classic New England summer, but you don’t want to worry about the overwhelming crowds that you usually see at places like Cape Cod, Massachusetts? If so, then Newport, Rhode Island is the ideal destination for you. With its natural beauty and rich history, it would be almost impossible not to find something to do. You can take a tour of the historic Newport mansions, such as uch as The Breakers and Marble House, hike the 3.5 mile Cliff Walk where you can see stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and even more Gilded Age-style mansions, or enjoy a nice glass of wine at one of the area’s numerous local wineries

Matagorda Bay, Texas

If you’re looking to take a solo vacation, consider adding Matagorda Bay, Texas, to your list. This remote bay on the Gulf Coast is a haven for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. The most popular activity to do in this area is fishing, as the area is known for its abundant fish population. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out in your fishing journey, you can spend hours casting your line and reeling in your next big catch.

Sandbridge Beach, Virginia

Located just 30 minutes south of the famous Virginia Beach, Sandbridge Beach, Virginia is a secluded coastal paradise that offer plenty of sites to see and things to do that are fun for the whole family. If you don’t want to limit yourself to just lounging around at the beach, you can explore the natural habitat of wildlife like bald eagles and loggerhead turtles at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, or take an affordable surfing, kayaking or paddle-boarding lesson at the Surf & Adventure Company. After a day of fun in the sun, be sure to check out the local restaurants and shops for some delicious seafood and souvenirs to take home.

Ruby Beach, Olympic National Park, Washington

Famous for its red-hued sand and large rock islands known as sea stacks, Ruby Beach is one of the most popular beaches that is a must to visit when you’re in Washington state. Located along the coastline of Olympic National Park, there are are number of activities to partake in at this location. You can search for unique rocks, driftwood and shells while taking a stroll along the shore, or take a hike on one of several trails in the area offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding forests. For a once-in-a-lifetime view, plan to visit Ruby Beach around sunset, so you can take the perfect photograph of the sun hitting the sea stacks and the sand that creates an explosion of awe inspiring colors.

Pope Beach, Lake Tahoe, California

When you think of Lake Tahoe, it is no surprise if you primarily associate it with winter vacations. Although this lake that sits on the border of California and Nevada is known for its numerous ski resorts, there is still plenty to do when the snow melts and summer comes around. Located on the south shore of the lake, Pope Beach is one of several beaches in Lake Tahoe that provides excellent opportunities to relax, swim, or have a picnic with incredible views of the lake and the Sierra Nevada mountains. You can even rent kayaks if you’re up to exploring more of the lake.

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

Located just outside Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina is a popular southern beach destination for a variety of fun activities for people to enjoy, like surfing, kayaking and playing beach volleyball. However, with the area’s vibrant social scene, it’s always easy to find something to do at Wrightsville Beach. You can learn about the early days of the beach at the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History, explore over 67 acres of spectacular gardens full of blooming flowers and might oak trees at Airlie Gardens, or go shopping at some of the area’s many boutiques and shopping centers.

Key West, Florida

Although this beach town may primarily be famous for being the southernmost point of the continental United States, Key West, Florida offers a Caribbean-esque atmosphere that offers plenty of fun activities for people of all ages. On land, visitors can explore the charming streets of Old Town, filled with art galleries, unique shops, and a plethora of restaurants and bars to explore. There are also a bunch of water activities to try, like sailing tours and snorkeling excursions, if you’re feeling adventurous. The one thing that you absolutely must do while you’re in Key West is to take a sunset cruise, as it offers stunning views of the sun setting over the Gulf of Mexico.

Tunnels Beach, Hawai’i

Located on the north shore of Kauai, Tunnels Beach in Hawai’i is a popular spot for snorkeling enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Under the crystal clear waters is a coral reef that is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles that use the small caves of the reef to rest and sleep. If you choose to go snorkeling, you can also find eels, octopuses and crabs swimming nearby. If snorkeling isn’t your thing, there are also opportunities for surfing, paddle-boarding, and kayaking, which is sure to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience for all who visit.

Assateague Island, Maryland

Are you or any of your loved ones a fan of horses? If so, then consider Assateague Island, Maryland to be your personal paradise. This barrier island is home to herds of wild ponies that have been around for hundreds of years, and is one of two herds that can be found here and at its neighboring Chincoteague Island in Virginia. The best time to visit is at the end of July, where the island celebrates its annual “Pony Swim,” during which the Virginia herd of horses is rounded up to swim from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island.

Fire Island, New York

Just a quick ferry ride away from the south shore of Long Island, Fire Island a car-free barrier island known for its pristine beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Here, you can explore the numerous nature trails that wind through the island’s scenic landscapes and spot some deer, soak up the sun on the shores or cool off in the waters. This island is also known for its vibrant LGBTQIA+ community, so if you’re looking for a place to celebrate Pride Month or meet new people who are part of that community, Fire Island is the place for you!

Kennebunkport, Maine

If there is one place that you absolutely have to visit during the summer months, it would arguably be Kennebunkport, Maine. This charming coastal town is one of the most sought-after summer vacation destinations, and for good reason. Visitors can explore the picturesque downtown area, filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and delicious seafood restaurants, or take a refreshing dip in the ocean at some of the area’s beaches. For those looking for an adventure that may be considered unconventional to some, you can take a tour of the Kennebunk River on a lobster boat and watch the workers haul in lobster while taking in the views of the beautiful coastline.

Long Beach Island, New Jersey

Long Beach Island, or “LBI” as it is known by the locals, is a beautiful barrier island off the southern coast of New Jersey known for its family friendly environment, close proximity to major cities like New York City and Philadelphia, and, of course, its beaches! The beaches may be a great place to beat the summer heat, but if you’re looking for a way to cool off while playing mini gold and going down waterslides, you’re in the right place. Long Beach Island is home to multiple water parks, including Thundering Surf Water Park & Adventure Golf, which features eight giant waterslides, super soaker water guns, a giant tipping bucket and much more.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Just along the shores of southern Georgia, you’ll find Jekyll Island, a ten-mile paradise of sun-drenched beaches that offer something that everyone can enjoy. One of the most popular attractions on the island is Driftwood Beach, which is known for its stunning coastline dotted with gnarled and weathered driftwood trees that form sculptures that look otherworldly. Jekyll Island is also home to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, which is Georgia’s only sea turtle education and rehabilitation facility. Here, you can learn all about these sea creatures while helping to guide them to the water safely when they hatch from their nests burrowed in the sand!

Kalaloch Beach, Washington

Located on the rugged Olympic Peninsula, Kalaloch Beach in northern Washington offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, ancient sea stacks, and tide pools teeming with marine life, making it an ideal spot for people looking to get in touch with nature. You can go hiking on the Kalaloch Creek Nature Trail, find some cool rocks and shells on the sandy shores, or watch gray whales swim in the ocean while they migrate north between April and June. For a truly spectacular view, visit Kalaloch Beach after dark, where you can build a beach fire and make s’mores while observing all the stars, and maybe even traces of the Milky Way, in the night sky.