10 of the Most Incredible Beaches in North America
North America is full of amazing beaches. It doesn’t matter if you want to climb, swim, surf, laze about in the sun, or simply take a relaxing stroll along the sand and rocks.
Every kind of beach imaginable is available across this vast continent. Some are perfect for a lazy summer holiday with someone special or the family and a whole gaggle of kids, while others call out to the more adventurous spirits. Here’s a collection of 10 of the best, and most interesting beaches you can find in North American, catering to a variety of different tastes.
Ka’anapali Beach, Hawaii
Stunning golden beaches stretch out in front of the wild Pacific Ocean on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The hotels here are luxurious, and the sand and scenery second to none. Ka’anapali Beach once had the honor of being crowned the best beach in America. With islands out in the distance, blue water to swim through and cliff diving off of the Puu Kekaa (Black Rock) cliffs, there’s plenty to do and see here.
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Some beaches are a bit more developed, and civilized than others. The island of Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts boasts quite a few such beaches. While the rich often come here to summer, the seaside still offers a lot of appeal. You can take a dip in the water near the town beaches, or find a more secluded spot where you can enjoy the chilly Atlantic away from the crowds, and sample some choppy water and rocky shore.
Tulum, Mexico
There aren’t many places in the world where you can lounge about on the sand and then go for a swim in the shadow of ancient Mayan ruins. Tulum happens to be one location where that’s possible. Gorgeous white sand, ancient Mayan city walls, and a spectacular length of salt water await you in Mexico. And if you happen to forget your bathing suit, don’t worry. The clothing rules at Tulum are pretty flexible. Simply avert your eyes if you don’t like the sight of naked flesh. We’re pretty sure the Mayans of old were okay with it.
Duke Kahanamoku Beach, Hawaii
Duke Kahanamoku Beach, named for a Hawaiian Olympic swimming champion, is situated right next to Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon. It’s the perfect spot for a family vacation. This curved stretch of glorious sand in Waikiki is well protected from the ocean waves, and a great place for swimming. A lot of families take their holidays here. Your kids are bound to meet other youngsters to play with while they’re splashing around in the surf. If you get tired of sitting around on the beach all day, and need a little more action, you can always opt for some sailing, surfing and paddling nearby.
Venice Beach, California
Southern California’s Venice Beach is never dull. You’ve got an amazing boardwalk here full of all kinds of zany characters. Street musicians, clowns, fire-breathers and all manner of performance artists set up shop here, or else cruise the pavement, entertaining the crowds, or often only themselves. You’ll also find the world famous gym Muscle Beach here as well, where the likes of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno used to work out. And of course, you have the beach and the Pacific Ocean at your fingertips. You can play volleyball, toss a Frisbee, surf, and swim here. Venice Beach really does have it all.
Lover’s Beach, Baja California, Mexico
Lover’s Beach is, in a word, sublime. Located in the southern part of Baja California, Lover’s Beach is near the point where the Sea of Cortez runs into the mighty Pacific Ocean. You’ll have to arrange a boat to get out to this secluded conglomeration of sand and rock, but you’ll be glad you did. Bring along some food if you plan on spending any amount of time here. The water can be a little rough, but still, it’s a pretty spectacular spot.
Bandon, Oregon
If you’re after a more ‘natural’ type of beach vacation, then Bandon, Oregon is where you should head. You can go surfing here if you want, but there’s a lot more to do than that. Bird watching, crabbing, fishing, kayaking and walks through the quaint little town are some of the other activities in the are. You’ll notice large rock formations out in the water just off the beach, which make for some spectacular surf, and awe-inspiring sunsets. For those of you who aren’t merely content lying down on your towel all day, you should definitely give Bandon Beach a try.
Miami Beach, Florida
Pretty much everyone has heard about Miami Beach and South Beach. Here you’ll find sand and sun, as well as an active hub full of art deco buildings, designer shops, raunchy nightclubs and wonderful restaurants. After a day in the water and on the beach, you can head down Ocean Drive and check out all the cool folk out for a night on the town. There’s plenty of live music, tasty cocktails, and a good time to be had by all. If you like the beach and party life, then Miami Beach won’t disappoint.
Cavendish Beach, Prince Edward Island, Canada
The Great White North has some pretty nice beaches, as well, although they tend to be a bit colder than the ones you find in California, Florida and Hawaii. Prince Edward Island in Canada is home to Cavendish Beach and the Dune Shores. If you’re a fan of the book 'Anne of Green Gables,' then you’ll be twice as happy to spend some time here. You can go for a stroll along the long and lovely beaches, near red sandstone cliffs, as well as take a tour of the farmhouse that was part of the inspiration for 'Anne of Green Gables,' written by Lucy Maud Montgomery and published in 1908. Kayaking, sailing, horse riding, and tons of other activities are also possible here, making this a delightful island getaway.
Hanalei Bay, Hawaii
This lengthy beach and half-moon bay is surrounded by imposing mountains and wild ocean. It also happens to be home to some incredible waves that surfers from near and far have come to love and admire. Massive cliffs nestle right up to the beach, which make Hanalei all the more impressive. Champion surfers ride the waves, and tourists flock to the shores. If you want to see a truly beautiful spot in Hawaii, then you need to make your way to the island of Kauai, and Hanalei Bay. You’ll be very happy you did.