Whether you’re going to do some surfing, exercising, tanning, building sandcastles, or just want to soak up the summer sun, the beach is always a popular destination. The United States has many beautiful and pristine beaches to choose from on all sides. To narrow it down, here are 5 awesome beaches in the US you should visit.

Lanikai Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

High shot of Lanikai beach, Photo by Kanaka Menehune, flickr
High shot of Lanikai beach, Photo by Kanaka Menehune, flickr

Lanikai Beach, or “heavenly sea” truly lives up to its name. It is considered the best swimming beach in Hawaii with its clear, clean waters and beautiful soft sand. The swaying coconut palms make it easy to escape the sun, making it the perfect place to relax. Lanikai Beach is also popular for its other activities such as kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and windsurfing.

MORE: 5 REASONS YOU SHOULD VISIT HAWAII

Magens Bay Beach, U.S. Virgin Islands

Translucent water in Magens Bay, Photo by Steve Grundy, flickr
Translucent water in Magens Bay, Photo by Steve Grundy, flickr

The most famous of the U.S. Virgin Islands beaches, Magens Bay Beach stretches for a half-mile. Its pebble-free sand and remarkably calm waters make it one of the most picturesque beaches on the islands, as well as an ideal spot for swimming. It also provides plenty of shade and amenities for the crowds in the warmer months.

Kauna‘oa Beach, Big Island, Hawaii

Kaunaóa Bay Hawaii, Photo by Kenneth Wright
Kaunaóa Bay Hawaii, Photo by Kenneth Wright

One of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Kauna’oa Beach is perfect for body-boarding and surfing, as well as for snorkeling along the rocks. The beach slopes very gradually and features a long crescent of pure white sand. During winter, Mauna Kea can be seen in the distance covered in snow, providing amazing views.

Siesta Key, Florida

Beach chairs Siesta Key, Florida, Photo by ResortQuest, flickr
Beach chairs Siesta Key, Florida, Photo by ResortQuest, flickr

Named the best sand beach in America, Siesta Key’s sand is 99% quartz. This means that the sand is very reflective and even of the hottest days will remain cool underfoot. Together with its cleanliness and beautiful waters, Siesta Key has been called one of the best beaches worldwide.

Santa Cruz, California

Natural bridge on Santa Cruz beach, California, Photo by Stephen Oachs , Pinterest
Natural bridge on Santa Cruz beach, California, Photo by Stephen Oachs , Pinterest

The main beach at Santa Cruz is not only great for catching some waves, but it is also the perfect destinations for families, with restaurants, shops, beach volleyball courts, and a scenic boardwalk. If all this wasn’t enough however, Santa Cruz is also home to a beachside amusement park so you won’t have a moment of boredom.