Whether you’re talking about the East Coast or the West Coast (and maybe even a few places in between), there is no shortage of gorgeous beaches in the United States. However, there’s one fact about U.S. beaches that’s hard to ignore. Most of the best ones are well known to everyone. As a result, they often fill up with tourists during the peak seasons.
If you know where to look, though, there are a number of “hidden gem” beaches on both coasts of the United States that are every bit as good as their more famous brethren, if not even better. If you’re looking for a unique beach experience in the U.S. once the weather turns warm once again, then these are the 10 hidden-gem beaches you should definitely check out!
1. Enderts Beach (California)
You come to Redwood National Park for the Redwoods, but you stay for the incredible beauty of this stunning Northern-California beach.
2. Folly Beach (South Carolina)
If you want to have a beach experience like a true South Carolinian, then a trip to Folly Beach, where watersports reign supreme, is definitely in order!
3. Roque Bluffs (Maine)
Coastal Maine is one of the most breathtaking places in the country. A visit to the vast expanse of Roque Bluffs gives you the chance to experience that beauty in its natural state.
4. Second Beach (Washington)
You’ll have to strap on your hiking boots if you want to make it to this beach. If you do, though, you’ll be able to experience the beaches of the Pacific Northwest the way God intended you to!
5. Awahua Beach (Hawaii)
It can be quite difficult to find a secluded beach in Hawaii, but take this tip. Awahua Beach is a paradise of a beach in a literal paradise, and with a fraction of the folks you’ll encounter elsewhere.
6. Dry Tortugas (Florida)
Out in the Gulf and away from the shores of Key West, this smattering of small islands is home to some of the most beautiful stretches of beach in Florida.
7. Wildcat Beach (California)
There’s no shortage of great beaches in California, but when you want to see the same beaches you see in the travel brochures, you want to head to Wildcat Beach, which is near Point Reyes National Seashore.
8. East Beach (Rhode Island)
Down a small path that actually runs next to Taylor Swift’s house, you’ll find this Watch Hill treasure that offers more peace and better surf than nearby (and populated) Misquamicut Beach.
9. Carova Beach (North Carolina)
North Carolina is renowned for its beaches. If you want the chance to experience those beaches without the crowds, a boat ride out to Carova Beach (part of the Outer Banks) might just be in order.
10. Sandbridge Beach (Virginia)
While Virginia Beach is all well and good, a 15-mile drive south will take you to Sandbridge Beach, which is every bit as beautiful but populated with a fraction of the people.
