Why U.S. Beaches Are More Important Than Ever

Because Travel Plans Are Changing, but a Good Swimsuit Moment Is Forever

Let’s be real—I’m not a huge beach person. Sand gets everywhere, the sun is out here trying to bake me alive, and let’s not even get into what saltwater does to my hair. But give me a good swimsuit moment, a scenic backdrop, and bonus points if I don’t have to go through customs? Now we’re talking.

With international travel looking a little dicey this year, domestic destinations are about to have their moment. And honestly, the U.S. has some beaches that could rival any tropical hotspot. Whether you’re into a laid-back beach town, dramatic cliffs, or soft white sand (that hopefully won’t follow you home for weeks), I’ve got you covered.

So grab that beach bag (and maybe a vacuum-sealed bag for the sand that WILL sneak into your luggage), and let’s check out the best beaches in the continental U.S. for summer 2025.

🏖️ 1. Clearwater Beach – Florida

🌞 Best for: Family-friendly fun & powdery white sand

Y’all know I love Tampa, so obviously, the Bay region had to be first. Clearwater Beach is a whole vibe. The water is warm, the sand is soft, and if you time it right, you’ll catch a Gulf Coast sunset so perfect it’ll make you forget about all the emails you ignored to get here.

While You’re There, Check Out:

• Clearwater Marine Aquarium – Say hi to rescued dolphins and sea turtles.

• Pier 60 Sunset Celebration – Street performers, vendors, and a front-row seat to the sunset.

• Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise – Because dressing up as a pirate and sailing around is never a bad idea.

🌊 2. Outer Banks – North Carolina

🌞 Best for: History, seclusion & wild horses

The Outer Banks is what happens when a history lesson meets a Nicholas Sparks movie. Think wild horses, towering sand dunes, and lighthouses straight out of a travel brochure.

While You’re There, Check Out:

• Wright Brothers National Memorial – Where flight history was made.

• Jockey’s Ridge State Park – Sand dunes so big you’ll feel like you’re on another planet.

• Ghost crab hunting at night – A surprisingly fun activity that requires zero skill.

🌴 3. Laguna Beach – California

🌞 Best for: Artists, hidden coves & coastal hikes

Laguna Beach is what people think of when they imagine a “California beach.” Crystal-clear water, tide pools filled with cool sea creatures, and a general “I should move here” energy.

While You’re There, Check Out:

• Heisler Park – Ocean views and art installations? Yes, please.

• Top of the World – A hike with A+ Instagram potential.

• The Montage Hotel (Even If You’re Not Staying There) – Fancy vibes, dreamy views, and maybe a celebrity sighting.

🌅 4. Cape Cod National Seashore – Massachusetts

🌞 Best for: Coastal charm & whale watching

Cape Cod is a whole aesthetic. Think quaint seaside towns, historic charm, and seafood so fresh you’ll question everything you’ve ever eaten before.

While You’re There, Check Out:

• Provincetown – Artsy, LGBTQ+-friendly, and packed with good food.

• Whale Watching Tours – See actual whales (not just the ones in your inbox).

• Martha’s Vineyard (Day Trip) – Because why not add a little island-hopping?

🏝️ 5. Siesta Key Beach – Florida

🌞 Best for: Softest sand in the U.S.

Siesta Key is for the people who love the beach but hate hot sand. The sand here is 99% quartz, meaning it stays cool no matter how scorching the sun gets.

While You’re There, Check Out:

• Siesta Key Village – Shops, bars, and a generally good time.

• Sunday Drum Circle at Sunset – Because beach drumming is apparently a thing.

• Myakka River State Park – See actual alligators (from a safe distance).

🌊 6. Cannon Beach – Oregon

🌞 Best for: Dramatic landscapes & cooler coastal getaways

Cannon Beach is for the moody, sweater-wearing, PNW-loving crowd. It’s got giant rocks, misty mornings, and the kind of vibe that makes you want to write poetry or start a coffee shop.

While You’re There, Check Out:

• Ecola State Park – Coastal cliffs that’ll make you gasp.

• Hug Point – A secret-ish beach with caves and waterfalls.

• Tillamook Creamery – Cheese. Ice cream. Enough said.

🏖️ 7. Gulf Shores – Alabama

🌞 Best for: Affordable beach vibes & fresh seafood

Gulf Shores is for those who want a tropical-feeling beach without the tropical price tag. It’s got clear blue water, sugar-white sand, and fresh seafood that’ll ruin all other seafood for you.

While You’re There, Check Out:

• The Hangout – Beachfront dining with live music.

• Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge – Nature, but make it relaxing.

• Fort Morgan Historic Site – A cool old fort with great views.

🌴 8. Myrtle Beach – South Carolina

🌞 Best for: Boardwalk fun & entertainment

If you like your beach trips with a side of roller coasters and mini-golf, Myrtle Beach is your spot.

While You’re There, Check Out:

• Broadway at the Beach – Shopping, dining, and fun attractions.

• SkyWheel Myrtle Beach – Because everything is better with a view.

• Brookgreen Gardens – A peaceful sculpture garden when you need a break.

🏝️ 9. Tybee Island – Georgia

🌞 Best for: A laid-back island vibe close to Savannah

Tybee Island is relaxed, charming, and a short drive from Savannah, which means you get the best of both worlds.

While You’re There, Check Out:

• Tybee Island Lighthouse – Climb it, take the photo, act like you enjoyed the stairs.

• Dolphin Tours – Because dolphins are always a win.

• Savannah (Day Trip) – Southern charm, amazing food, and stunning architecture.

🏖️ 10. Folly Beach – South Carolina

🌞 Best for: Surfing & a laid-back atmosphere

Folly Beach is casual, fun, and just minutes from Charleston. Great for surfing, people-watching, and finding a beach bar to post up at.

While You’re There, Check Out:

• The Washout – The best surfing spot around.

• Morris Island Lighthouse – For a scenic (and kinda romantic) view.

• Downtown Charleston (Short Drive) – History, great restaurants, and lots of charm.

Final Thoughts

Look, I may not love sand, but I do love a good travel moment—and if international borders are making things complicated, then why not explore the best beaches right here at home? U.S. beaches are showing out this summer, and I’m just here for the photo ops.

So, which one are you hitting first? Let me know in the comments! And stay tuned for more BreeLeaves guides to help you navigate this new travel era. 🌊☀️