From Coast to Coast to Coast: 10 Unique Beaches of the USA

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach1

Approximately half the size of Russia, the United States of America (USA) contains 3,717,813 sq mi (9,629,091 sq km) of land. From the far off volcanic islands of Hawaii, to the deserts of Nevada, to the white sand beaches of Florida, the USA contains a broad spectrum of terrain and topography. Although each region appeals to a different sort of tourist, each with their own idea of fun, it seems that all visitors are attracted to the USA's 12,380 mi (19,924 km) of coastline.

Though seemingly small when compared to the USA's vast landmass, the country's beaches are diverse and attract a motley crew of visitors. Whether looking for a nude beach to sunbath on, or an icy shore to explore, the USA has it all. However, with so many beautiful beaches along the oceans, lakes, rivers, and even in the desert, it is hard to exclusively select ten. Accordingly, the following depicts a mosaic of beaches, each offering a distinct and unique experience.

SUNSET BEACH

Featuring two mi (3.22 km) of white sand and turquoise waters, Oahu's Sunset Beach in Hawaii is one of the longest sand beaches on the island Oahu. Characterized by its massive winter rip-curl waves, some reaching up to 40 ft (12.2 m), Sunset Beach is host to a number of world-renowned surfing competitions. Every year professional surfers compete on at least 10 ft (3 m) of waves for international recognition at the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing and Roxy Pro, part of the Triple Crown of Surfing competition. As winter fades away and the summer months take over, the waters at Sunset Beach calm and become an ideal destination for swimming and snorkeling.

PUNALU'U BLACK SAND BEACH

Hawaii's Big Island is the largest of all the Hawaiian Islands. It is also the youngest island, formed by five volcanoes, which are still active today. Because of the constant volcanic activity the Big Island has a diverse collection of beaches, from white to black-sand. Punalu'u Black Sand Beach is the most famous of the black-sand beaches. Over thousands of years the beach's sands were created as lava flowed to the sea and exploded upon contact with the cooler water. Tall, lean palm trees edge the dramatic black coastline, creating a breathtaking scene, and it is not uncommon for tourists to see an endangered hawksbill turtle or green sea turtle lounging on the beach.

Nestled between Naalehu and Pahala, Punalu'u Black Sand Beach can be accessed by the Hawaii Belt Road, south of Hilo. Beach amenities include restrooms, showers, and a permitted camping area.

	Homer Spit, Alaska2

HOMER SPIT

Surrounded by the icy waters of Kachemak Bay, the 4.5-mi (7-km) Homer Spit is situated at the end of the Kenai Peninsula in the state of Alaska. The spit is accessible by foot or by car. In the summertime it becomes busy with tourists, and visitors will find a few accommodations, restaurants, shops, the Homer Boat Harbor, and a man-made fishing hole nearby. When the tide is low beach combers will discover an expanse of sandy beach, but at high tide it is mostly gravel. For the souls who are willing to brave the chills of the sea, surfing and windsurfing can be fun, however a wet-suit is a definite must. Those wishing to spend a night on this famous Alaskan landmark can stay at the Homer Spit Campground, or at one of the spit's bed and breakfasts.

THE OREGON COAST AND SAND DUNES

Extending 40 mi (64.4 km) between Florence and Coos Bay along Oregon's coast, the Oregon Dunes, which are part of the Siuslaw National Forest, contain the largest coastal sand dunes in North America. Taking millions of years to form, these dunes were uniquely sculpted by the great forces of nature and prove to be a wonder to the eye. Not only do the dunes provide an interesting research subject for amazed geologists, but avid adventurers are enthralled by the 500-ft-high (152.4-m) mountains of sand, bringing all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, and quads for a thrilling sand ride. Visitors can give this popular activity a try by renting an ATV vehicle from nearby towns, Florence and Reedsport. For ease and convenience, guests staying at the Oregon Dunes KOA can directly access the dunes with off-road vehicles.

Black's Beach3

BLACK'S BEACH

A popular spot among students of the University of California San Diego and southern Californian nudists, the 2 mi (3.2 km) Black's Beach is divided into two sections. The northern part features legal nude sunbathing and is owned by the state of California. This section of the beach is maintained by the Black Beach Bares Organization, and in the summer months, naked bodies can be found sprawled across the sand soaking up the warm rays of the sun.

The coast here is lined with sharp cliffs as high as 300 ft (91.4m). Although beautiful, these cliffs make it somewhat difficult to reach Black's Beach. This only enhances the experience for those who persist beyond the cliffs to arrive at Black's Beach because swarms of tourists are kept away.

MANDALAY BAY BEACH

	Mandalay Bay Beach & Casino4

Found in Las Vegas, Nevada, the man-made Mandalay Bay Beach is located at the luxurious Mandalay Bay Beach Resort and Casino, along the Las Vegas strip. The tropical themed resort is owned by MGM Mirage, and features 3309 rooms. Keeping its guests occupied by its many attractions, some popular activities include making an appearance at one of the clubs or restaurants, the shark reef aquarium, entertainment shows, casino, or of course, the beach.

Although it's not a beach in the traditional sense of the word, its originality and opulent amenities make it a deserving candidate of this top ten list. Known as one of Las Vegas' best pools, this 11-acre (4.5-ha) man-made beach features an incredible 2700 tons of sand, a wave pool, lazy river, three swimming pools, and a jogging track. Between the months of May and September the Beach Concert Series presents performances by top-name artists at the beach's unique stage.

ANTELOPE ISLAND STATE PARK

Antelope Island State Park is the largest of the islands found in the salty landlocked waters of Utah's Great Salt Lake. Accessible by causeway or by boat, this island appeals to quiet beach-goers and explorers. Viewing wildlife is not uncommon as American bison were introduced to the island in 1893 and there are now between 500 and 600 of them. Visitors may also catch a glimpse of pronghorn sheep, deer, coyotes, and waterfowl.

After paying the park admission fee, visitors can take advantage of the available amenities. There are campsites, washrooms, showers, and picnic areas.

PANAMA CITY BEACH

Referred to by some as the “spring break capital of the world,” Panama City Beach annually plays host to students from across the country with hopes of partying the week away, hanging out on the beach, and not getting themselves into too much trouble. Typical spring break activities include club hopping, concerts on the beach, TV shoots, contests, beach parties, and lots of drinking. Historically, Fort Lauderdale was the location of choice, but in 1985 the city banned all spring break parties due to the damage that they caused. In the following years, spring-breakers relocated to Daytona Beach. Unfortunately, the same thing occurred there. Having to move yet again, Panama City Beach has now become the official USA hot spot for avid college party-goers.

Spring Break 20085

Situated on the northwest coast of Florida, the city features 27 mi (43.5 km) of shoreline and white sugar-like sand, scattered with sky-high hotels and condominiums. Visitors will never be short of amenities with a range of beach accommodations to choose from, like ResortQuest at Sunrise Beach or the Majestic Beach Towers.

OCRACOKE ISLAND BEACH

Ocracoke Island is situated off the mainland of North Carolina and is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Only accessible by ferry, boat, or small plane, the coastline of Ocracoke Island is undisturbed and reflects the area's pristine natural beauty. There is just under 16 mi (25.7 km) of sandy beach, of which a section is lifeguarded and continually debuts on popular top ten beach lists. Visitors to this quaint island can stay at one of the bed and breakfasts in the town of Ocracoke, or choose to head home after a busy day at the beach.

JONES BEACH STATE PARK

Located in the hamlet of Wantagh, Long Island, Jones Beach State Park is a top travel location among people of New York's metropolitan neighborhoods. Visitors can meander along the 2-mi (3.2-km) boardwalk, or bask in the sun on 10 mi (13.5 km) of white sandy Atlantic shoreline. What adds to this beach's uniqueness is its concert venue, the Nikon at Jones Beach Theater. With a capacity for 15,000 guests, the outdoor amphitheater hosts leading music performances and features a raging summer concert series.

1. HVCB/BIVB; Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, Hawaii's Big Island, Hawaii, USA
2. Alaska Travel Industry Association; Homer Spit, Homer, Alaska, USA
3. Black's Beach; San Diego, California, USA
4. MGM Mirage; Mandalay Bay Beach Resort & Casino; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
5. Panama City Beach, Florida, USA