Last Updated on January 14, 2024
Looking for the most beautiful white sandy beaches in USA? Every year Stephen Leatherman, also known “Dr. Beach“, professor and director of the Coastal Research Laboratory at Florida International University in Miami, ranks the best beaches of the year, all around the US from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast.
If you are on a search for white sand, palm trees, and sunshine really do not have to leave the US to feel like you are on a tropical island. So, grab your best beach bag and get ready for some summertime fun.
Unsurprisingly, Hawaii is one of the best destinations where you can find pristine white sand beaches, but you will find excellent beach locations in other states as well.
And if you are looking for something even more exotic… did you know that there are pink sand beaches, and even locations where the sand is blue at times?
Best White Sand Beaches in the US
1. Hapuna Beach State Park – Big Island, Hawaii
Hapuna Beach is one of the few white sand beaches on the west coast of Hawaii Island. This white coral beach is located in a landscape that is dominated by black lava flows.
During the summer months, Hapuna is perfect for swimming in its crystal clear waters, snorkeling and diving. In the winter, the current can be very strong, but luckily there are well-trained lifeguards.
2. Coopers Beach, Southampton, New York
To the east of metropolitan New York lies the Hamptons. Southampton is a town frequented mainly by rich, famous and upper middle class people. Many people have their own cottage here. “In the background you can see high sand dunes and large buildings.
However, even ordinary people can find access points to the sea. A bar offers snacks and drinks. As the first “Gold Coast” in the country, Coopers Beach is hundreds of yards wide, made of grainy white quartz sand.”
3. Ocracoke Beach, Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks is a thin strip of sand that stretches for nearly 100 miles drawing the North Carolina coastline. “Some of the wildest beaches in the country are found here.
You’ll find high waves, especially in late summer. Don’t expect a golf course or a five-star hotel! This is where you come to swim, go clamming or take long walks at night.”
4. Grayton Beach State Park, Florida Panhandle
Grayton Beach State Park features nearly 2 miles of beaches. All are stunning due to the high dunes and few buildings.
“High dunes characterize the setting of this beach, which triumphs with white sand and emerald waters.“
5. Old Lighthouse Beach – Buxton, Outer Banks del North Carolina
Another wonderful beach on the Outer Banks, Old Lighthouse Beach is the best place to surf on the Atlantic coast of the United States and is also loved by beachcombers.
6. Duke Kahanamoku Beach – Oahu, Hawaii
Located across from the Hilton Hawaiian Village and Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon, it is part of the famous Waikiki Beach and is one of the best white sand beaches in the country.
Enjoy swimming and watching the sunset while experiencing the essence of Honolulu.
7. Caladesi Island State Park – Dunedin Clearwater, Florida
Crystal-clear quartz sand and clear water – this is one of Florida’s most beloved beaches. “A beautiful destination – accessible by ferry, boat or a long walk. The soft quartz sand invites you to swim in the clear waters.”
8. Conorado Beach – San Diego, California
Conorado Beach is one of the favorite destinations of American VIPs. In addition to the beautiful beach, the island’s pride and joy is the Hotel del Coronado, built in 1888, which looks like a castle out of a storybook.
According to Dr Beach “this 2.4 kilometer strip of flat, sandy coastline is perfect for strolling. “Kings, sheiks and actors have stayed at the nearby Hotel del Coronado, one of the most distinctive spots on Coronado Beach” in San Diego.
9. Beachwalker Park – Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Beachwalker Park’s beach on Kiawah Island, a 10-mile-long barrier island, “is perfect for nature lovers. The water couldn’t be clearer.” This is a favorite spot for bird watchers and kayakers.
10. Coast Guard Beach – Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod is a peninsula jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Boston. This beach is still home to a Coast Guard headquarters, now converted into an environmental education center.
“The sand is relatively coarse and the beach slopes steeply down to the sea. From the old lifeguard tower you have a great view of the bay.”
Best Black Sand Beaches in the US
Punalu’u Beach – Big Island, Hawaii
Punalu’u is one of the best black sandy beaches in USA, located on Big Island Hawaii. It’s easily accessible and filled by characteristics coconut palm trees.
Kehena Beach – Big Island, Hawaii
Another black sand beach on Big Island, Kehena Beach was formed by lava flow from a nearby volcano in 1955.
Exposed to the open ocean, swimming is possible when the sea is calm, otherwise it’s better to stick to sunbathing. Kahena is an unofficial clothing optional beach.
Black Sands Beach – Whitehorn, California
Wonderful large black sand beach north of Shelter Cove. Popular with shoreline hikers and backpackers.
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