6 Most Beautiful Beaches To Visit In The United States

After a year spent indoors, we're ready to be (safely) outside and soaking up the sun this summer. If you're feeling us, gear up for some serious snorkeling, surfing, swimming or even just chilling out we're all in need of some much-needed taking-it-easy time at the very best best beaches in the United States. This roundup spans the country, from East Coast gems and West Coast favorites to beautiful Hawaii coasts and even an essential respite in Chicago. Thirsting for more travel inspiration in 2021? Don't miss our rundowns of the best places to visit in the USA, hiking trails in the United States and the best road trips in America.

# Hanalei Bay, Kauai, HI

One of Hawaii's lesser-visited islands, Kauai is home to stunning beaches. Located on the island's north shore, Hanalei Bay is the largest bay in Kauai and offers more than two miles of soft white sand, a calm bay, and a mountainous backdrop. The beach is rarely crowded, which means families will have plenty of room to spread out, and in the summer, the bay offers excellent mooring for sailboats, stand up paddle boarding and swimming.

# El Matador State Beach, Malibu, CA

Small and dominated by rocky outcrops, El Matador my not fit your typical idea of an afternoon on the sand but it's far and away S Cal's most beautiful beach. Wear shoes and don't bring too much gear; the western Malibu spot is only accessible via a steep gravelly path. Spread your towel in the cupped hands of the rocks just watch out for high tide. Arriving early or staying late should reward you with a memorable dawn or sunset.

# Siesta Beach, Siesta Key, FL

As its name implies, Siesta Key is the place to relax. The expansive beachfront rarely feels overcrowded and the fine quartz-crystal white sand stays cool to the touch, so be sure to dig your feet in whilst reading your favorite magazine. Pack your cooler with your adult beverages no glasses allowed and should you feel the need to exert yourself, kayaks and paddle boards are available for rental.

# Coronado Beach, San Diego, CA

Anchored by the grand Hotel del Coronado, this iconic white-sand beach is a SoCal gem that literally sparkles (it's flecked with the gold-like mineral mica). Gentle waves encourage frolicking in the shorebreak, while a vast sandy expanse which never feels crowded invites sandcastles and kite-flying. The beach was immortalized by Marilyn Monroe in Some Like it Hot, and you can play the role of starlet with a stay at "The Del" which gains you access to retro, candy-striped loungers and swanky cabanettes on the sand.

# Kaanapali Beach, Maui, HI

Vacation like royalty at Kaanapali Beach, where Maui's monarchy once enjoyed waves and sunsets. This popular stretch of white sand is home to surf schools, cocktail bars and a nightly torch lighting ceremony with cliff divers reenacting King Kahekili's tradition. Visit the Maui Ocean Center kiosk on the beach before a snorkeling session to help identify the colorful marine life you encounter. Then walk along the boardwalk and revel in the eateries and luau performances that pepper the destination.

# Moshup Beach, Martha's Vineyard, MA

Martha's Vineyard fills up with vacationers in the summer, but most stay on the northern edge of the island. Down south, or up islandas the locals call it, locals and island veterans head to Moshup Beach in the community of Aquinnah. Located below the sandy cliffs at what was once called Gay Head (before its Native American name was officially reinstated), the white sand beach is a sanctuary from the horde.