The Best Beach Vacations In The USA By State
1. Alabama
Gulph Shores
It doesn't get any more tropical than the Gulf Of Mexico! Self-proclaimed as one of America's "hidden gem" locations, this area is clean, sunny year round, and offers opportunities for activities like fishing, golfing, and of course, sunbathing.
2. Alaska
Black Sand Beach
Mostly known for its beauty, the Black Sand Beach in Alaska is a sure stop if you're ever in this state. The glaciers surrounding the water gives visitors breathtaking views you just have to see in person.
3. Arizona
Lake Powell is the body of water that goes from Arizona to Utah - picking the side you want to stay on is up to you. If you pick the Arizona side, you'll experience an experience along the water. They offer houseboats - literally live in the lake or vacation rentals for those who may be less adventurous.
4. Arkansas
DeGray Lake Resort
This is the epitome of an Arkie vacation. Stay for a week or stay for a day, you'll be sure to be relaxed during your southern getaway. From biking to hiking, there are tons of options to choose from when it comes to activities.
5. California
Santa Monica Beach
There are technically hundreds of beaches in California, but there aren't any like Santa Monica. From shopping and restaurants to surfing, sun, sand, and rides, the pier and nearby shops create an environment that makes the perfect vacation.
6. Colorado
Boulder Reservoir
With over 700 acres of land, the opportunities for recreation are endless in this beautiful reservoir. Swim in the lake, picnic nearby, or scout for wildlife, you'll be relaxed and refreshed with the mountains of this state in the background of whatever you do.
7. Connecticut
Hole-In-The-Wall Beach
This beach gets its namesake for being a little known relaxation escape for Connecticut natives and visitors alike. As part of McCook's Point Park, beachgoers can enjoy a quiet, white sand beach, with a boardwalk not too far away and breathtaking views of the long island sound.
8. Delaware
Dewey Beach
If there's anything The First State is known for, it's their beaches. We recommend Dewey Beach, Delaware, because it's got a lot of heart for such a small spot. From the bars to the beach, this is a great beach vacation for anyone who, like this town, is young and restless.
9. Florida
Siesta Key
Just like it's MTV show of the same name, Siesta Key provides nonstop excitement for families and adults only alike. Restaurants, breathtaking blue water, and nightlife all make up tons of activities. What is the resort town's charming takeaway? The beach, of course!
10. Georgia
Jekyll Island
No Hyde's here! This state park is perfect for those who want a historic southern trip to the shore. From the ancient forests to the army base, there are tons of stories to be told her. Write your own when you visit this unique beach town.
11. Hawaii
Waikiki Beach, Oahu
With tons of resorts to keep busy on, the beach in this island is one of the most famous in the state. That's saying something, considering the state of Hawaii is surrounded by beautiful blue water and white sand.
12. Idaho
Bear Lake
A Midwest state like Idaho looks to their lakes for beach-side fun. Bear Lake is another body of water shared with Utah. When you pick the Idaho side, you'll experience one of the best and most beautiful camping spots in the USA.
13. Illinois
Lake Michigan
Even though you might not be in Michigan, their lake stretches to Illinois and the Windy City in particular. With 26 miles of free public beach, visitors can enjoy deep dish pizza and swim on the coast - just wait 30 minutes after eating.
14. Indiana
Monroe Lake
The largest inland lake in Indiana is surrounded by thousands of acres of land owned by the state of Indiana. Leslie Knope would be proud of this land, which showcases Indy's best wildlife. From nightlife and entertainment to camping, this is a vacation spot you can check off your list with or without the little ones.
15. Iowa
Storm Lake
Museums and historic houses line this Lake that is recognized as King's Pointe Waterfront Park. If you're looking for a historical adventure with relaxation time, this is your perfect beach vacation.
16. Kansas
Shawnee Mission Park
Kansas is probably a state that makes one think of plains, corn, and Dorothy Gale. However, did you know it's home to some beaches as well? Shawnee Mission Park is a 150-acre lake surrounded by wildlife, trees, and forest. Plus, bring your furry BFF for a dog beach nearby.
17. Kentucky
Lake Malone State Park
Hike some trails and then relax on the beach with this hidden gem in Kentucky. With the best nature can provide, campers can set up their tents right by Lake Malone.
18. Louisiana
Holly Beach
Known as the "Cajun Riviera," Holly Beach is the perfect beach visit especially if you're visiting New Orleans. Known for its "tent house beaches" due to being hit by hurricanes, when all is calm in this small town, all in relaxing.
19. Maine
Kennebunk Beach
The diverse beaches that make up this beach feature soft and rocky sand that relaxes the soul as you walk along the shore. This town offers a trolley to transport visitors to the beach if they do not want to drive, and some months your furry friend can join you for a trip to the water.
20. Maryland
Ocean City
The largest beach attraction in Maryland takes the crown in this category. As one of the top family destinations on the east coast, this spot is perfect for the kids or for a romantic getaway. Ocean City prides itself on being whatever you need for a beach vacation.
21. Massachusetts
Revere Beach
As you can probably guess, this beach as a lot of history behind it (just like the state it lives in.) Grab your family and take a trip here because there's movies, ice skating, and horse racing nearby. Relax and sunbathe on the New England coast just north of Boston.
22. Michigan
Sleeping Bear Dunes
Pack your bags and your tents and head out to the Sleeping Bear Dunes to go camping. Sunbathe, swim, and camp out on this beautiful beach overlooking Lake Michigan.
23. Minnesota
Cedar Lake
Find a hidden gem in Minnesota and take a trip to Cedar Lake. Take the Cedar Lake Trail and head down to the shore where you won't find as many crowds as the more popular beaches.
24. Mississippi
Biloxi Beach
One of the few beachside casinos in the USA, Biloxi Beach is a great adult destination. Spend your day on the Gulf Of Mexico and head into the many casinos for nightlife, restaurants, and shopping.
25. Missouri
Finger Lakes State Park
If you're a true Midwesterner, you'll love this land that provides ATV and off-road motorcycles and camping. The Finger Lakes provide a beautiful view, swimming, and sunbathing for visitors.
26. Montana
Whitefish City Beach
With a 7 mile long glacial lake, the beauty of this land is a favorite for Montana natives and visitors alike. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the water or head out into the sea with paddleboarding and kayaking.
27. Nebraska
Wagon Train State Recreation Area
746 acres of land and a 315-acre lake creates an environment for relaxation and escape from daily life. Head down for a hike and a swim and feel replenished and one with nature.
28. Nevada
Chimney Beach
Sitting on the edge of Lake Tahoe, this beautiful state provides a gorgeous look at the mountains that are absolutely breathtaking. The best part is - this beach is never crowded because it's literally a hike to get there. And you can bring your pup for some swimming, too!
29. New Hampshire
Echo Lake State Park
Explore the beauty of New England with Echo Lake Park in New Hampshire. This pet-friendly state park lets your entire family head out for the day, hike, sunbathe and wade at your own leisure.
30. New Jersey
Asbury Park, New Jersey
Warning: This author might put some bias in this state, but if you're traveling from out of town, you'll notice why it made the list. There's a lot of history in this town and boardwalk, which has seen so many changes over the years. From the beach bar to the music scene (the historic Stone Pony, Convention Hall, and Asbury Lanes draw in visitors with some of the best bands and artists across all genres.) You can spend all day in this town - there's so much to do and the beach is beautiful.
31. New Mexico
Elephant Butte
Laugh all you want, but this beach is the most popular in New Mexico. This State Park offers everything one could want. Drive your RV and camp out one night, spend all day on the beach the next. Take in your surroundings of the dry New Mexico terrain - the beauty of the diversity of the USA!
32. New York
Jones Beach State Park
Home to many attractions as well as a beach, Long Island natives and those from the city travel here for summer fun. 6.5 of beautiful acres of land make up this area for swimmers, sunbathers, history buffs, and concert-goers. What more could you ask for in a beach?
33. North Carolina
Kitty Hawk
Take a trip to the Outer Banks and you'll understand why everyone has the bumper sticker on their car. The charming town offers a public beach, a small village of locals, and time away from mainstream life.
34. North Dakota
Devil's Lake
This Lake is far from being as bad as the devil. This resort town offers tons of activities, including hunting, fishing, and restaurants. For summer fun in a town that welcomes everyone with open arms, choose North Dakota for your next beach vacation.
35. Ohio
Nickel Plate Beach
Located on Lake Erie, this Ohio beach has it all for visitors and locals alike. Adventurers will love to paddleboard and kayak along the lake. Another unlikely choice for a beach vacation, let Ohio surprise you.
36. Oklahoma
Broken Bow Lake
With over 180 miles of shoreline, visitors can find a welcome change in this Oklahoma beach. Rent a houseboat, jet ski, or speed boat if you're feeling like adventuring. With a nature trail and camping available, adventurers and beachgoers will love this destination.
37. Oregon
Seal Rock Beach
This state recreation park is a fun beach vacation for you and your family to frequent if you like to lay in the sand right next to seals! The wildlife here is constant and well. Known for its tidepools, the little ones will love this vacation.
38. Pennsylvania
Harvey's Lake, Wilkes-Barre
Pennsylvania's largest natural lake is located in the Poconos. Set sail or stay relaxed at their beaches designs for recreational swimming and water activity.
39. Rhode Island
East Matunuck State Beach
This South Kingstown, Rhode Island showcases the best of Rhode Island's beaches (and that's what they're known for.) Enjoy the New England sunshine on the coast in the heart of this area of the United States.
40. South Carolina
Folly Beach
Referred to as the "Edge Of America," Folly Beach is a great destination for families and couples alike. There are tons to do - but don't forget to take some time to relax on the beach.
41. South Dakota
Lewis And Clark Lake
Right on the border of South Dakota and Nebraska, this lake is perfect for those in the Midwest who can't get to the ocean. The lake is 25 miles long and offers tons of things to do. Swim or sunbathe at this popular destination.
42. Tennessee
Cherokee Lake
Almost 500 miles of shoreline make up this lake in Knoxville, Tennessee. The beautiful Clinch Mountain Range surrounds this gorgeous area of land, perfect for visitors and locals alike.
43. Texas
Magnolia Beach
This is a campsite that RVers and travelers will enjoy. Drive right on the beach and enjoy the views of the Gulf of Mexico from a different side.
44. Utah
Deer Creek State Park
We already know that Utah is beautiful, but Deer Creek State Park allows visitors to bask in it. Bike, ATCX, and canoe in this park that is located almost 50 miles southeast from Salt Lake City. Camp out and relax beachside with this beautiful reservoir.
45. Vermont
Lake Champlain
Vermont is another beautiful New England state that often gets overlooked by its cousin states, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Double that sentiment when it comes to beaches. Enjoy Lake Champlain for just about every escape you can imagine and you'll never overlook this state again.
46. Virginia
Cape Charles Beach
Known for their tagline "Virginia Is For Lovers," this beach town has a resort that's unlike any other. From mountains and rivers to beaches and wine, there really is something for everyone here.
47. Washington
Denny Blaine Park
Surrounded by an old stone wall, this State Park offers beachgoers and un-lifeguarded grassy paradise. Recreation and relaxation await you in this Pacific Northwestern State.
48. West Virginia
Summersville Lake
Vacation on a cabin with this relaxing retreat area that offers tons of recreational activities. With a beautiful lighthouse and trademark hospitality, there is no reason why you wouldn't want to stay here for a relaxing destination trip.
49. Wisconsin
Point Beach State Forest
Located on Lake Michigan, this state forest provides a great getaway. With a selfie station for those who want to show off and 6 miles of shoreline, this destination is perfect for Midwesterners.
50. Wyoming
Fremont Lake
At 12 miles long, this is Wyoming's second biggest lake. Swim in this natural beach and lay along the shore, looking on to the beauty of the midwest.
What is your favorite beach vacation spot? Comment below!
