Boasting a whopping 12,380 miles of coastline, the U.S. is a veritable treasure trove of stunning beaches. From tropical paradises to rugged coves, state parks and superb surf spots, there's a full spectrum when considering a vacation on the shores of this nation. But oftentimes, these stretches of sand can get overcrowded with other sun seekers, prompting us to search out undiscovered coastlines. Here are a few beaches that should stay a secret — if you can help yourself.
Mustang Island State Park, Texas
Situated between Corpus Christi Bay and the Gulf of Mexico is a small sandy strip known as Mustang Island. This barrier island is a coastal haven for wildlife, including sea turtles. Two species are known to frequent these beaches, the green sea turtle and the critically endangered Kemp’s ridley, which lay eggs on the beach from April through July. But sharing the beach with sea turtles is not an issue — Mustang Island boasts five miles of expansive sandy shoreline to accommodate all of your favorite beach activities. Don’t forget your furry friends at home, this is a dog-friendly state park.
Fontainebleau State Park, Louisiana
Spend a beach day under coastal cypress trees at Louisiana’s Fontainebleau State Park on Lake Pontchartrain, a 40-mile wide saltwater estuary off the Gulf of Mexico. Boasting powdery white sand beaches for sunbathing and warm Gulf waters for swimming and sailing, there is never a dull moment in this 2,800-acre park. Watch the sunset on the pier, stroll along a 27-mile converted railway line, or take a swamp tour to see the local flora and fauna — the opportunities are abundant.
Hammonasset Beach State Park, Connecticut
Located on the Long Island Sound, Hammonasset Beach State Park is popular among locals, but is relatively unknown to those outside the region. The state park spans 1,000 acres and boasts two miles of tranquil Atlantic coastline. A wildlife watcher’s paradise, the park hosts an annual monarch butterfly migration and is home to several species of rare shorebirds, including piping plovers, least terns, and American oystercatchers. At the southern end of the beach is Meigs Point, nicknamed the “singing beach” because as the tide rolls in, thousands of tiny shells clink together, creating a symphony of sound.
Bahia Honda State Park, Florida
Despite the location on the Gulf of Mexico, the Florida Keys aren’t as famous as for their beaches as you would think. Enter Bahia Honda State Park, on Bahia Honda Key. The sugary white sand and crystal-clear waters evoke images of an island in the Caribbean. You won’t need a snorkel to spot colorful fish, but if you have one then you’ll be in for an even bigger treat.
Bandon State Natural Area, Oregon
From Coquille Point to Face Rock, it’s easy to find a secluded spot at this 879-acre state park. Mighty sea stacks decorate the shoreline and, together with the grass-covered dunes, create a postcard scene. It’s a great spot for taking long walks and galloping along the seashore on horseback. Keep an eye out for the resident seals basking in the sunshine.
Gulf State Park, Alabama
Boasting one of the largest piers in the Gulf of Mexico, the 6,150-acre Gulf State Park is home to three and a half miles of sandy beaches, located between the towns of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Though the park’s pristine sand is a perfect place to spend a lazy day sunbathing, we urge you to take a dip in the ocean — these turquoise waters reach temperatures of up to 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer, which is very comfortable for swimming. After an active day of sandcastle building or beach volleyball playing, head to the pier to enjoy a vibrant Gulf Coast sunset.
Cuttyhunk Island, Massachusetts
Cuttyhunk Island’s neighbors are probably more familiar to you: Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket. However, the tiny island of Cuttyhunk, the outermost of the Elizabeth Islands, is worth the short ferry ride from New Bedford. (Don’t forget to bring your bike — it’s arguably the best way to explore the island.) Cuttyhunk’s shores are perfect for relaxing with a good book as the cool Atlantic breeze rolls across the beach grass. On the north end, Church’s Beach is the most popular spot to take a dip or enjoy watersports. Try some local oysters or ice cream before grabbing the ferry back to the mainland.
Cumberland Island, Georgia
You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time while exploring this 18-mile sweep of golden sand. The remains of Spanish mission churches scatter the island and wild horses roam freely amid the grassy dunes. Access to the island is via water only and a passenger ferry departs from the city of St. Marys.
Coon Creek Beach, California
California has its fill of overcrowded beaches, and it seems impossible to find one that remains under the radar. Don't worry, we've got you. Meet Coon Creek Beach. When the rental motorhomes and convertibles cruising Highway 1 become too much, this sandy cove provides a well-earned respite. The best way to get here is to hike south from Montaña de Oro State Park. With enough time, you could continue to Point Buchon for more views of Big Sur’s dramatic bluffs and thundering Pacific surf.
Folly Beach, South Carolina
About a 20-minute drive from Charleston is the beautiful and family-friendly Folly Beach. From admiring the views from the pier to surfing at Folly’s Washout and hiking in Folly Beach Country Park, there’s boundless things to do. The beach town also has a solid offering of bars, seafood shacks, inns and villas, too, so you won't feel too isolated in this hidden gem.
Lanikai Beach, Kailua, Hawaii
It is possible to escape the crowds for a while when vacationing in and around Honolulu. We promise! When tourists head to the beaches of the North Shore, do as the locals do and hang out at Lanikai Beach. Lanikai translates to Heavenly Sea, and a dip in the bath-like water lives up to the name. The palm-fringed curve of pure white sand is the stuff of Hawaiian dreams, and you can enjoy a clear view of Mokula islands while not being bothered by hordes of tourists and resort staff.
Ocracoke Island, North Carolina
Here’s one for those beach dwellers who appreciate that the journey is sometimes as thrilling as the destination. First you’ll need to drive to Cedar Island and then take a ferry across the Pamlico Sound to the Ocracoke. Once here, a single road brings you within walking distance of secluded bays, unblemished stretches of sand, rolling, windswept dunes, and salt marshes.
Rye on the Rocks, New Hampshire
Most surfers will agree that Bass Beach (aka Rye on the Rocks) is the best break on New Hampshire’s 16-mile coastline. It’s a bit of a state secret but fortunately the locals are a welcoming crowd. So grab your board, paddle out, and enjoy the thrill of riding beefy waves that crash onto exposed rocks. The adjacent Jenness State Beach is great for long walks and exploring tidal pools.
