From coast to coast, explore the best beaches in the US

Scenic coastlines await throughout the U.S., offering a picture-perfect vacation with water activities, stunning sunsets, and so much more.

By Paul Oswell | April 10, 2025 (Updated March 12, 2026)

Enjoy a toes-in-the-sand vacation at beaches across the U.S.

For most people, the idea of a summer vacation is one that involves white-sand beaches, a sparkling blue ocean, and cool drinks by the pool. There’s something about the coast that’s immediately relaxing and revitalizing, so consider a seaside getaway this summer. Here’s a breakdown of some beautiful and memorable coastal escapes from the East Coast to the West Coast.

In this article: Best beaches in the U.S.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Clearwater Beach, Florida

Huntington Beach, California

Monarch Beach, California

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

If you’re looking for a sophisticated destination with quintessential southern charm on the East Coast, Hilton Head Island is the jewel of the Carolinas. The vibe of this barrier island is all about relaxed elegance, with top-tier golf courses, a range of water activities, and a growing foodie scene, making this beach destination ripe for creating memories. Stay at Hilton Beachfront Resort and Spa Hilton Head Island and sink your toes into the white sands that lie directly in front of the property. Beyond the beach, your concierge can arrange for tennis or golf at nearby top-of-the-line facilities, and rental bikes and kayaks for exploring the island’s interior and glorious, dolphin-filled estuaries. After an evening treatment at Spa Soleil, sipping a cocktail overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and indulging in classic Lowcountry cuisine at Blue, the resort’s gourmet restaurant, you’ll feel like a new person.

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Clearwater Beach, Florida

You can feel your senses reawaken in a destination like Clearwater Beach. The azure waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast catch your eye, the aroma of tropical flowers hangs in the air, and you can hear dolphins playing out at sea when it’s still. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for families, while active visitors can experience the excitement of parasailing and jet skiing. Just a minute’s walk from the beach, The Hiatus Clearwater Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton is exceptionally located. Relax in the sanctuary of the resort’s seventh-floor Sielo Rooftop Pool Bar, where you can soak up panoramic views of the shoreline from the pool with a cocktail in hand. The final ingredient for this memorable beach vacation is the fresh local seafood featured on the irresistible Caribbean-inspired menu of the on-site Ocean Seven Restaurant.

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Huntington Beach, California

There’s a wealth of beautiful beaches on the California coast. Among the most coveted is Huntington Beach, where you’ll find world-renowned surfing, snorkeling, and kayaking. The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel overlooks the soft sands of Huntington Beach and is a short walk from the International Surfing Museum and Pacific City’s bustling nightlife and food scene. The concierge can help you create a truly memorable day by arranging everything from sand toys and umbrellas to beach butler service and bonfires. Take a break by dipping into the resort pools, zipping down the water slides, or relaxing in a cozy poolside cabana. Add a touch of indulgence to your coastal trip at Drift a Waterfront Spa, where a Himalayan salt stone sauna and eucalyptus-infused steam room offer the ultimate spaces to unwind.

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Monarch Beach, California

Striking seaside bluffs make Monarch Beach one of the most scenic spots along the Pacific coast, with ample stretches of sand to enjoy. The concierge at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club can help organize any aquatic adventures, as well as exploration of nearby Dana Point. Take a guided e-bike tour, go whale watching, or spend the day at the private beach club, where you can rent everything from surfboards and wet suits to snorkel gear and bodyboards. With top-notch golfing at Monarch Beach Golf Links, complimentary yoga classes, sparkling pools, and curated spa treatments at Waldorf Astoria Spa and Salon also on offer, you can relax your way. The oceanfront firepits are another great way to wind down, with s’mores, light bites, and cocktails. For a full meal, choose from the resort’s four on-site restaurants serving steakhouse favorites, coastal cuisine, Mexican-inspired dishes, and more.

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Paul Oswell

Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guidebooks/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California, and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.