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Seaside Delights: Best Beaches in 7 Coastal States

With thousands of miles of coastline to explore, visiting beaches in the United States is a fantastic way to take in the natural beauty that this country has to offer. From the palm tree-lined beaches of California to the white sand shores of New Jersey, there are beaches out there for every interest and preference. Whether you’re planning a family-friendly vacation, a romantic getaway, or an adventure-filled trip, you can enjoy some of the world’s most beautiful shorelines right here in the U.S.

With so many beaches to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to go. To help narrow it down, USA TODAY 10Best had a panel of experts nominate their favorite beaches across seven states, and readers voted for their favorites. Here’s a look at the best beaches in seven coastal states.

Best Beach in California: 'Olol'koy Beach Park

Once known as Oxnard Beach Park, 'Olol'koy Beach Park in Oxnard, California, offers a stunning stretch of golden sands and rolling lawns. The park is lined with palm trees and features skating and jogging paths, grill areas, volleyball courts, and a children’s play area, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation.

The park's renaming to 'Olol'koy, the Chumash word for dolphin, honors the land's original inhabitants and adds to the park's cultural significance. This beach is ideal for those looking to enjoy a beautiful day in the sun while also learning about the area's rich history.

Best Beach in Florida: Delray Beach

Located within the sprawling Miami metropolitan area, Delray Beach spans roughly 2 miles on the edge of Palm Beach County. Visitors can lay out and soak in the sun across the entire beach, but Atlantic Dunes Park stands out for its added natural beauty, thanks to its sloping sand hills and picturesque dunes.

Delray Beach offers a mix of vibrant nightlife, upscale dining, and beautiful scenery, making it a top choice for beachgoers looking for both excitement and relaxation.

Best Beach in Michigan: First Street Beach

First Street Beach in Manistee, Michigan, beckons with its wide, sandy expanse, mellow waves, and family-friendly atmosphere. It's a great destination for beachgoers of all ages. You can build epic sandcastles with the kids, play beach volleyball with friends, or simply lounge in the sun while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Michigan.

First Street Beach also features picnic areas, a playground, and a boardwalk, providing plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation by the water.

Best Beach in New Jersey: The Wildwoods

Featuring the largest stretches of sand on the Jersey Shore, The Wildwoods in New Jersey offer plenty of space for beachgoers to spread out. The beach is unique for its beach taxi service, which transports visitors from the boardwalk to a spot closer to the ocean, making it easier to set up chairs and umbrellas.

On the beach, guests can play volleyball, surf, boogie board, or simply play in the waves. Surrounded by iconic retro architecture, the legendary Wildwood Boardwalk is a big entertainment hub, offering an electric vibe day and night.

Best Beach in North Carolina: Ocean Isle Beach

Ocean Isle Beach in North Carolina offers soft, sandy shores and calm waters that are perfect for swimming. From the shore, guests can spot dolphins and the occasional sea turtle. The nearby Museum of Coastal Carolina provides ample insight into the biology of the region's native marine creatures.

This beach is ideal for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of North Carolina's coastline while also having opportunities for educational experiences.

Best Beach in South Carolina: Pawleys Island

Situated on South Carolina's Hammock Coast, Pawleys Island is a tiny town located on the eastern edge of Georgetown County. The community is home to just over 100 residents, but the population swells in the warm months when beachgoers arrive to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.

Pawleys Island offers a laid-back vibe with plenty of beach access and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Best Beach in Texas: Isla Blanca Park

Isla Blanca Park on South Padre Island, Texas, enchants visitors with its soft white sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant beach culture. The park offers both relaxation and excitement for beachgoers of all ages. From swimming and snorkeling in the warm Gulf waters to participating in beach volleyball, Isla Blanca Park has an abundance of opportunities for fun, with beachfront pavilions, rentals, and amenities easily accessed.

This beach is a top choice for those looking to experience the lively atmosphere and beautiful scenery of South Padre Island.

Conclusion

From the golden sands of 'Olol'koy Beach Park in California to the vibrant beach culture of Isla Blanca Park in Texas, the United States boasts a wide array of stunning beaches across its coastal states. Each beach offers something unique, whether it's the cultural significance of 'Olol'koy, the natural beauty of Delray Beach, the family-friendly atmosphere of First Street Beach, the expansive sands of The Wildwoods, the serene shores of Ocean Isle Beach, the laid-back vibe of Pawleys Island, or the lively excitement of Isla Blanca Park.