The 16 Best East Coast Beaches in the U.S.
Set your sights on these beautiful stretches of shoreline from Maine to Florida.
By Lindsay Cohn
Set your sights on these beautiful stretches of shoreline from Maine to Florida. With summer finally on the horizon (especially after the dark, cold months of January and February) all eyes are on sun-splashed getaways. What better place to spend a few days than sprawling out on a beautiful East Coast beach? Sure, you could jet off to European hotspots like Capri and Saint-Tropez or tropical islands such as Fiji, but why hop on a long-haul flight when some of the most postcard-perfect stretches of shoreline exist up and down the eastern seaboard?
With nearly 30,000 miles of coastline, there’s plenty of soft sand, blue water, and seaside fun to choose from—whether you prefer the waterfront amusements of the Jersey Shore, mixing it up with well-heeled vacationers in the Hamptons, or the serenity of Assateague Island. Here, the best East Coast beaches in the U.S.
Mansion Beach: Block Island, Rhode Island
Mansion Beach, accessible via a dirt road in Block Island, provides visitors with the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement for the whole family,” says Caroline Quinn, travel expert at . When soaking up the sun, bodyboarding in the waves, and combing for shells along the uncrowded shoreline, the peaceful ambiance is such a delightful contrast to other East Coast tourist darlings that draw huge summer crowds.
Georgica Beach: East Hampton, New York
Abutting the Georgica Association—one of the most exclusive and expensive communities in the world—beautiful Georgica Beach makes the singularly rough drive out to the Hamptons well worth it. This particularly splendid stretch of East Hampton is where city transplants and owners of summer homes nearby come to catch rays, go for a refreshing dip, and plan Instagram-worthy beach picnics.
Siasconset Beach: Nantucket, Massachusetts
One of the loveliest and most easy-to-access beaches on Nantucket, Siasconset Beach, on the eastern tip of the island, sits within biking distance of in the utterly charming, old-school town of Sciasonsett. Backed by dunes, it’s a popular—and photogenic—spot for swimming, surfing, and fishing.
Goosewing Beach: Little Compton, Rhode Island
On the South Shore of Rhode Island lies Goosewing Beach, a haven of soft sand that offers a sanctuary for relaxation, renewal, and outdoor recreation.“It’s located within a stunning nature reserve that’s one of the state’s most popular outdoor destinations for visitors looking for adventure, hiking trails, and beautiful wildlife,” explains Quinn. Pro tip: It's located less than 15 minutes away from the beautiful Sakonnet Lighthouse, so plan to make a trip to both spots while you're in the area.
Gooch’s Beach: Kennebunkport, Maine
“Set along the scenic coastline of Kennebunkport, Gooch's Beach is a cherished gem of New England with timeless charm,” says Quinn. Ideal for beachgoers of all ages, it’s as pretty as a postcard with velvety sand for leisurely barefoot strolls and building castles, beginner-friendly waves for surfing and swimming, and gorgeous sunset views.
Corolla Beach: Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks are a favorite of outdoor enthusiasts. For many thrill-seekers, the 4x4 drive to Corolla Beach is a trip-making highlight in and of itself.“Once there, visitors can spot wild horses roaming freely along the tranquil shoreline and even embark on a kayak safari for a closer look,” reveals Quinn.
Newcomb Hollow Beach: Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Quinn calls dune-backed Newcomb Hollow Beach “one of Cape Cod’s hidden gems.” After a day swimming in the water and sunning on the golden sand at the northernmost oceanside beach in Wellfleet, stick around to catch the prettiest sunset on the hook-shaped peninsula.
Assateague Beach: Assateague Island, Maryland
A bastion of serenity, Assateague Beach is hidden away on Assateague Island, a sleepy 37-mile-long barrier island and protected nature sanctuary. Far removed from the mainland crowds, wild horses roam and the waves of the Atlantic Ocean lap the near-empty shoreline where your footprints might be the only ones etched into the sand.
Cape May Beach: Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May is a long-time favorite Jersey Shore town. One of its biggest draw cards? The wide sandy beach runs parallel to the boardwalk and extends for miles. In the summer, it’s packed (though, not unpleasantly so) with families sharing snacks and cool drinks under umbrellas, playing frisbee, and frolicking in the water.
Aquinnah Beach: Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
With its dramatic multi-colored clay cliffs, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters, Aquinnah Beach provides a stunning backdrop for a day of fun in the sun. Its timeless charm and unparalleled beauty make the half-mile stretch of coastline ideal for travelers looking to experience the true essence of Martha’s Vineyard.
Good Harbor Beach: Gloucester, Massachusetts
Favored both by locals and travelers alike, Good Harbor Beach draws visitors into a world of natural splendor with its pristine sands and sparkling water. Quinn also touts the fact that it’s just steps away from Ravenswood Park, a peaceful 600-acre nature reserve.
South Beach: Miami Beach, Florida
The sizzling strip of shore that gave rise to an entire vacation destination, palm-fringed Miami Beach brings the heat with its year-round sunshine, golden sand, turquoise water, and colorful lifeguard houses. Umbrellas and loungers from various hotels line the beach—and it’s got some of the best people watching around.
Race Point Beach: Provincetown, Massachusetts
According to Quinn, Race Point Beach stands out due to the miles of gorgeous steep dunes with hikes, cliffs, and wildlife, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.“Visitors can easily unwind and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of this quintessential Cape Cod destination,” she adds.
Sandbridge Beach: Virginia Beach, Virginia
Unlike some of the more touristy seaside spots in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge Beach’s relatively secluded location keeps the vibe much calmer.“The coastal marshes and maritime forests allow visitors to spot the local flora and fauna—including shorebirds, dolphins, and loggerhead sea turtles, as well as gulls, terns, and sandpipers—with ease,” says Quinn.
Crane Beach: Ipswich, Massachusetts
One of New England's most cherished destinations for summertime family fun, Crane Beach supplies far more than just sun and sand. Tucked within a 1,234-acre conservation and recreation area, the four-mile-long beach is ensconced by dunes, pine forests, and the Atlantic Ocean, so it’s a great spot to explore picturesque scenery.
East Beach (Bald Head Island, North Carolina)
Bald Head Island is one of North Carolina’s best-kept secrets. Love water sports? East Beach boasts spectacular waves, making it the perfect spot for active travelers to try surfing, kiteboarding, windsurfing, boogie boarding, and stand-up paddleboarding.
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