There’s nothing better than planning a trip to the beach during the summer. Whether you are looking for relaxation, want to try a new water sport, or plan to spend some time swimming, the beach caters to all interests.
The U.S. is home to thousands of miles of coastline, offering a variety of beaches to choose from. Here are five of the best beaches to visit this summer.
1. Zuma Beach
Located in Malibu, about 20 miles west of Los Angeles, Zuma Beach offers the public two miles of prime beach real estate. It has strong surfing waves most of the season and is also known for its wildlife.
Whale sightings are not uncommon on Zuma Beach. After a day on the beach, Malibu offers everything you need to finish out your trip, including ample opportunities for dining and shopping.
2. Clearwater Beach
Florida is home to some of the best beaches in the country. Clearwater Beach is located in Clearwater, Florida, just outside of Tampa. The beach is one of the most diverse in the area and is great for active water fans as well as those looking for relaxation.
Both locals and visitors frequent the beach for water activities such as paddle boarding, snorkeling, boating, sailing, and more. The water is calm, so the beach is safe for kids as well. There are many spots to rent a cabana or umbrella, so the whole family can be comfortable for the day.
3. Assateague Island
Located west of Maryland, Assateague Island is home to several unique beaches that make for a great weekend getaway or extended vacation. The island is known for the beautiful wild horses that live there, which can even be seen trotting along the water.
Of course, there are plenty of opportunities to stretch out and enjoy the calm waters and sun. Adventure seekers can spend an extended stay on the island with ample opportunities to set up camp overnight.
4. Wailea Beach
If you’ve wanted to plan a beach trip to Hawaii, add Wailea Beach to the list. Located on the island of Maui, Wailea Beach offers beautiful scenery and clear water that you can only find in Hawaii.
The smooth sand and lush tropical plants create a truly serene experience that is perfect for unplugging and relaxing for the day. The beach is visited by travelers from around the world but has not been known to experience overcrowding.
5. Cannon Beach
The pacific northwest doesn’t always make the top beaches list, but you should not overlook Cannon Beach in Oregon. The beach is four miles long and features incredible views with tons of wildlife. Visitors flock to the Haystack Rock, an impressive 235-foot boulder that rises above the ocean’s surface.
While the water usually isn’t warm enough to swim in, this is a beautiful beach to spend an afternoon taking in the views and fresh air.
These are just a few of the wonderful beaches in the U.S. Whether you are looking for an adventure-packed trip or a relaxing escape, you can find what you are looking for at these beaches.
