12 US Coastal Gems for a Breathtaking Beach Vacation
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For many, taking a break by the sea is the ultimate way to unwind. However, fighting the crowds for space can be far from relaxing. If you want to find an undiscovered gem away from it all, read on for 12 of the best-hidden gems on the US coast.
Sombrero Beach, Florida
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It often surprises visitors to the Florida Keys that the beaches can be nothing to write home about. Caribbean-style white sands lapped by turquoise waters are actually rare here, with some beaches better suited to snorkeling than sunbathing. But Sombrero Beach in Marathon has all that and more and is fringed by palm trees and mangroves.
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Indian Beach, Oregon
Though Cannon Beach is worth visiting, it can get very busy in summer. Beat the crowds by heading to Indian Beach in Ecola State Park instead, where a comely crescent of soft sand awaits. Fragrant Sitka spruce trees, a scattering of seashells, and little tidal pools are among the understated attractions. It’s also a stunning spot at sunset.
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Folly Beach, South Carolina
This coastal gem in South Carolina has oodles of appeal but is only 10 miles from the equally charming city of Charleston. Folly Beach offers a network of bike paths for exploring, a pier to stroll along, and ideal conditions for surfing and other watersports. The town also offers a selection of tempting restaurants, some of which specialize in seafood.
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Lumahai Beach, Hawaii
Go to Kauai’s North Shore to discover a hidden gem that the tourist crowds avoid. Lumahai Beach can be accessed via a short, steep hike from a bend in the road right by Hanalei Bay. Brooding volcanic rocky outcrops provide a pleasing contrast to pristine sands and the azure waters of the Pacific.
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Orval Hansen Point Beach, Idaho
Yes, you can stumble upon an idyllic beach in Idaho. Orval Hansen Point Beach is tucked away on Redfish Lake in Sawtooth National Forest. Though it attracts its fair share of visitors from the local area and further afield, there’s lots of space to stretch out. Crystal-clear waters and a mountainous backdrop ensure picturesque views, and this beach is perfect for paddling, relaxing, or even partying.
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Bound Brook Island, Massachusetts
Cape Cod might not be where you’d expect to find a carefully concealed coastal spot. But close to Atwood-Higgins House, on Bound Brook Island, you can come across one. Sand dunes scattered with seagrass add character; at some times of the year, you’ll get this place all to yourself.
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Assateague Island, Maryland
Assateague Island in Maryland is famed for its wild horse population. Descended from domestic stock, these equine animals can roam across the sand. North Ocean Beach and South Ocean Beach are good bets for a soothing day by the sea, or head to Wild Beach, which you can only reach by boat or on foot.
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Mohegan Bluffs, Rhode Island
The preserved Block Island in The Ocean State is home to some beaches you’ll find anywhere in the US. Mohegan Bluffs is the best of the bunch and is accessed via a steep wooden staircase. Popular activities include following the local hiking trails, surfing, or stretching out on the soft, golden sand. Forgo tourist-thronged Martha’s Vineyard by heading here instead.
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Bethany Beach, Delaware
It’s easy to reach Bethany Beach in Delaware from New York City or Washington D.C., as it’s only a few hours away by car. It’s a beautiful beach town with a broad sweep of golden sand backed by dunes and a boardwalk with places to shop and eat. This family-friendly spot is perfect for building sandcastles, swimming, and unwinding.
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Driftwood Beach, Georgia
Go to Georgia’s glorious Golden Isles to find the beauty of a beach. It’s named for the natural driftwood sculptures scattered across the sand, some of which are thought to be five centuries old. Eroded by the salty air and sunshine, the driftwood hunks are huge and incredibly photogenic.
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Second Beach, Washington
Go to the Olympic Coast in Washington State to find the First, Second, and Third Beaches. Second is the best and is reached via a twisting yet relatively easy hiking trail. The rugged shoreline ensures spectacular scenery, with offshore stacks dotted across the ocean. Migrating whales can be seen in spring and fall, while bald eagles and seals are spotted during all seasons.
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Windansea Beach, California
Finding a hidden gem in the San Diego area might seem like Mission Impossible, but Windansea Beach can feel like that. The area has around 70 miles of coastline, so you can escape mobbed spots like Mission Bay. If you’re into surfing, this one’s a dream, as the reefs here create reliable swells.
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