Top 5 Must See Beaches in U.S for 2025

I know the holiday seasons are here right now as you're reading this, but that doesn't mean you can't start planning for your summer travels for the year 2025 right now. While there's still a lot of time to plan for a summer getaway, family vacation, romantic trip, etc. Here is a list of the top five must see beaches in the U.S. for 2025.

Gulf Shores is a beautiful coastline with plenty of white sand beaches that offer a wide variety of things to do, whether you're into outdoor activities, family activities, or you're into shopping. From historical landmarks, nature reserves, and a vibrant culinary scene especially when it comes to fresh gulf seafood. It’s no wonder Gulf Shores made the list. For you history buff out there, be sure to visit Fort Morgan which is a military site that was built in the 1800’s to protect Mobile Bay. If you love the outdoors and you’re into nature head down to Gulf State Park offering 6,150 acres of protected land, with lots of outdoor activities to participate in such as fishing, biking, hiking, bird watching, etc. Whether you’re looking to get a workout in or just take a stroll be sure to hike the Hugh S. Brandon trail while at the Gulf State Park which is 28 miles long offering several distinct ecosystems from coastal dunes, longleaf sand ridges, pine flat woods, and many other ecosystems. While hiking this trail be careful to lookout for wildlife such as bobcats and alligators. “Not into the rugged outdoors?” “That’s totally fine.” For a family outing or solo outing you can visit the Wharf which is an entertainment district with lots of shops, restaurants, and even live music at the amphitheater. And if you’re looking to do something romantic you can take a sunset cruise from the marina.

1. Gulf Shores, Alabama

2. Lanikai Beach, Hawaii

3. Clearwater Beach, Florida

4. Cannon Beach, Oregon

5. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Located in Oahu, Hawaii on the eastern shore. Lanikai beach offers a more intimate setting than the other surrounding beaches, making it perfect for family bonding, a romantic getaway, or a relaxing day to yourself. Known for its beautiful sunrises with white sands, turquoise blue waters, and beautiful views it’s no wonder why Lanikai beach is considered to be one of the best beaches Hawaii has to offer. Although Lanikai beach atmosphere is more quieter and less crowded than other surrounding beaches, there’s still fun things to do on this beach. The Lanikai Pillbox Trail is a must do, it’s a short easy but steep hike offering panoramic views of the surrounding area including the Mokulua Islands which are twin islands located offshore of Lanikai beach. Speaking of the Mokulua Islands, you can actually kayak or paddle board to the islands with a tour guide or self guided tour. It takes about 45 minutes to arrive to the islands, but when you get there you can snorkel with fishes and sea turtles, enjoy more hikes, and take in the sights of Lanikai beach from a different angle. Lanikai beach is a destination that lives up to its reputation as one of the best beaches in Hawaii. So whether you’re into sunrises, water activities, or just simply relaxing. Lanikai beach is the place to be.

Considered to be one of the most popular and beautiful beaches on the Gulf Coast. Clearwater beach has plenty to offer beach dwellers. With a family friendly atmosphere, a vibrant beach scene, and within close proximity of other attractions it would be almost impossible to have a dull time on your vacation here at Clearwater beach. Clearwater beach have a lot of activities for all types of interests that you can enjoy for a family vacation, trip with friends, or solo traveling. One of the most popular attraction there is Pier 60. Pier 60 is a 1,080 feet pier known for a fishing hot spot with tackle and bait shops to rent fishing equipment, but fishing isn’t the only thing this pier offers; Pier 60 has a daily sunset celebration with local artisans, live music, and street performers. The pier has lots of shops, restaurants, and vendors. Just a short boat ride away you have Caladesi Islands State Park, for you adventurous seekers out there; Caladesi Islands State Park offers opportunities to explore mangrove forests, to see wildlife, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, etc. Speaking of adventure, Clearwater beach has lots of water activities as well, such as parasailing, jet skiing, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. If you love animals be sure to head over to Clearwater Marine Aquarium where they offer dolphin watch cruises and animal care experiences such as feed a string ray, photo with a dolphin, etc. Clearwater beach also has an vibrant night scene with lots of beach bars, rooftop lounges, and live music venues where you can dance the night away. Clearwater beach has so much to offer for anyone looking to relax, be adventurous, and have a good time. I think it’s safe to say Clearwater beach deserves to be on this list as a must see beach.

Located on the Oregon Coast, known for its stunning landscape, iconic rock formations, and its charming coastal town vibe. From breath taking sceneries to a relaxing atmosphere. Cannon Beach is perfect for a tranquil escape. During your visit you can explore the famous Haystack Rock during low tide. The Haystack Rock standing at 235 feet tall is surrounded by tide pools that are home to starfish, sea slugs, crabs, and other sea creatures. Popular for catching waves, there’s several surf shops that offers lessons. Just about eight minutes north of Cannon Beach you have the Ecola State Park with several different trails leading you to hike through lush forests while still providing you with fantastic views of the Pacific Coast; making it an excellent spot to hang out and see wildlife, take photographs, and go hiking. You can add cultural and educational dimension to your trip by visiting the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum where information of the rich history of Cannon Beach is exhibited; from information of the indigenous people, early settlers, and the famous Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. Speaking of history, here’s a fun fact; some of the scenes in the 1985 movie “The Goonies” directed by Richard Donner was filmed in Cannon Beach. Cannon Beach is also a hub for local artist with numerous galleries and art events held annually. And if you’re looking to enjoy a relaxing evening, Cannon Beach is perfect for bonfires under the starry sky. Cannon Beach is a perfect destination for nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and those seeking a tranquil escape while offering a variety of activities and stunning views.

Myrtle Beach is a must visit for anyone whether you’re planning a romantic getaway to relax, family vacation, or solo adventure; Myrtle Beach has you covered. Located in South Carolina, Myrtle Beach offers 60 miles of sandy shores right in the middle of what is known as the “Grand Strand” which means the land that borders a body of water. Myrtle Beach has plenty of entertainment to offer from amusement parks like Family Kingdom Amusement Park and SkyWheel Myrtle Beach which is known to have the tallest ferris wheel on the East Coast standing at 187 feet tall, to aquariums like Ripley’s Aquarium where you can have encounters with some of the animals only by reservations, and live entertainment like The Carolina Opry which offers a mix of country, pop, and comedy performances or you can enjoy a dinner and a show at the Pirate’s Voyage Dinner & Show where you and the family will enjoy a feast along with a pirate show. If you’re into golf, Myrtle Beach may be the place for you; it’s known as the “Golf Capital of the World” with over 80 golf courses catering to all skill levels. And if you’re looking for a quiet less busy tourist area Huntington Beach State Park is a ideal place for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature. Myrtle Beach seems to have a lot to offer and then some; with so much to do in Myrtle Beach, it’s a no-brainer why it’s a top contender for a beach you must visit.

Conclusion

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, an art enthusiasts, or someone who wants to relax by the ocean. These five beaches have plenty to offer with their own unique characteristics and atmospheres. With the summer of 2025 approaching, why not book a trip to one of these spectacular beaches.

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