A look at the ten best beach destinations in the United States will reveal the varying nature of the nation’s coastal beauty. From the hidden getaways of preserved Hawaiian beaches to the lush historic landmarks of New England’s shores, there’s a beach vacation in America that can suit anyone’s sandy dreams.

Bahia Honda State Park

36850 Overseas Highway

Big Pine Key, FL 33043

If you’re looking for a beach to host your next snorkeling adventure, the Bahia Honda State Park on Big Pine Key in Florida should be first on your list. While visiting this well maintained state park you can charter a trip out onto the water with some of the most professional and friendly guides and take advantage of the beach’s great snorkeling, fishing and dolphin spotting.

Barefoot Beach

2 Barefoot Beach Blvd.

Bonita Springs, FL 34134

One of the last undeveloped islands off of the southwestern coast of Florida, Barefoot Beach has the atmosphere of a hidden paradise. This destination offers the ease and hospitality of a resort beach without the crowding or business. Once at the beach, you can rent a kayak for an ocean adventure, or simply lay back and take in the wonderfully preserved scenery.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach Loop

Cannon Beach, OR 97110

The benefits of visiting Cannon Beach, Oregon go far beyond the beautiful scenery and sand castle contests. The town itself is an upscale tribute to local culture. When you’re not sitting on handmade wooden benches by the ocean, you can spend hours simply taking in the art, food and excellent shopping. Live music is a common occurrence on the open air decks of the restaurants.

Fort Desoto Park

3500 Pinellas Bayway South

St Petersburg, FL 33715

The perfectly warm white sand of Fort Desoto Park in St. Petersburg, Florida is the perfect place to set up a blanket and forget the world exists. The atmosphere of the beach is incredibly laid back and a quick wander around the grounds will reveal some of the most interesting beach landmarks in America. The best of these intriguing finds is the remnants of the Fort Desoto battery.

Hapuna Beach

Highway 19

Kamuela, HI 96743

This beach in the Hapuna State Park on the northwest of Hawaii’s main island has some of the best swimming conditions in this tropical paradise of a state. During the hot summer months, the beach is gigantic. It extends for two and half miles and can reach 200 feet wide. The popularity and size of the beach make this a great destination for larger groups and families.

Hulopo'e Beach

Highway 440

Lanai City, HI 96763

For a fun family getaway, nothing beats the Hulopo’e Beach Park in Lanai City, Hawaii. This beach is known among tourists as the safest swimming conditions in Hawaii. You can feel comfortable letting your children experience the beautiful clear waters of this beach, knowing that the area is protected by the state and maintained incredibly well.

Kalmus Beach

Hyannis

Cape Cod, MA 02601

The area of Massachusetts known as Cape Cod is brimming with state and privately owned beaches along the shores of towns that are right out of a picture book. In Hyannis, which is among the most popular Cape Cod towns among tourists, is Kalmus Beach. This beach is hugely popular among windsurfers and boasts some of the most reliable winds in New England.

Ocracoke Island

Ocracoke, NC 27960

An island off the coast of North Carolina, the island of Ocracoke is a historic and fun destination for a beach vacation. This island has ties to Native America history and the growth of maritime trade and culture in the early American colonies. The island has several beaches to choose from that offer different kinds of ocean experiences. To truly enjoy Ocracoke, you should devote a day to getting lost in the quaint village beaches.

Ogunquit Beach

Ogunquit, ME 03907

The resort town of Ogunquit in Maine is a quiet, relaxing place to enjoy your next ocean adjacent vacation. For decades, travelers have flocked to Ogunquit to take in the breath taking views of the Marginal Way and granite cliffs. This destination isn’t just for summer, as the town hosts festivals and activities throughout the entire year.

Pleasure Point Beach County Park

Santa Cruz, CA 95062‎

Open every day from dawn until dusk, Pleasure Point Beach County Park in Santa Cruz, California is a haven for surfers visiting the popular California beach town. One of the best parts of the beach is the area designated as the dog park. Even in during the cooler winter months, you can watch very happy canines frolicking in the tide pools.