In the Declaration of Independence, it says that all people are created equal. That’s 100% true. What’s 100% not true is that that all beaches are created equal. Even though it seems like there’s not much to a beach – some sand, water, and sun – there are definitely some beaches out there that kick the pants off of others. We’ve looked around and found the best beaches in the continental
US. We kept it limited to the main 48, because if we included Hawaii, pretty much every beach would just be Hawaii. We tried to include nice beaches from every corner of the
country, so that no matter where you are, you can add a new seascape to your bucket list.
1. PFEIFFER BEACH, CALIFORNIA
When you close your eyes and think about what a
dream beach would look like, Pfeiffer Beach looks even better than that. Located in the amazing Big Sur region of California, this place is
absolutely breathtaking. It’s a decent hike to get there, but every step is completely worth it. Sprawling sand, an island with a rock archway, polished stones, and mountain slopes are just a few of the amazing sights you’ll get here. Plan to stay all day, and get there early! Parking is limited.
2. NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA
Another California resident, Huntington Beach is the home of surfing, piers, good looking people, and amazing sunsets. Located in southern Los Angeles, this beach is a respite for folks wanting to get away from the city, but not too far away. The weather here is perfect year-round, and the white sand stretches on for miles.
3. DESTIN, FLORIDA
A more affluent resort town located on the Gulf of Mexico, Destin boasts some of the nicest beaches in the United States. Smack dab in the middle of Florida’s panhandle, these beaches have fluffy white sand, turquoise sea water, and more sunshine than you’ll know what to do with. Don’t be distracted by the crazy lights of Panama City an hour’s drive away. Destin is where’s the real beach vacation is.
4. JERSEY SHORE, NEW JERSEY
Stick with me here. Jersey Shore isn’t really nice, but it is a spectacle. One of the more famous beaches in the world, it’s worth visiting just to say you’ve hung out in the same places as Pauly D, The Situation, and Snookie. You don’t go to Jersey Shore for the relaxing beach, you go there for the people watching.
5. SHI SHI BEACH, OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK, WASHINGTON
Shi Shi beach is the place to go if you’re an explorer. Located in the incredibly beautiful Olympic National Park, this beach looks like no other beach you’ll ever see. Huge boulders, narrow arches, aged driftwood, and exotic totems all make it totally one-of-a-kind. Bring your hiking boots, because you’re looking at an 8 mile round trip hike to get there, but boy is it worth it. This unadulterated seascape will take your breath away – and you can even stay the night to camp! Everyone is enamored with the ocean, but some beaches are just plain better than others. Just
go to the beach in Boston, and you’ll see what we mean. These 5 beaches are must-visits for anyone who claims to be an ocean aficionado. Now go out and get some sun!
