The can't-miss summer beaches across the Southeast United States

From the pristine shores of the Carolinas to the sun-kissed beaches of Florida and the hidden coastal gems of the Gulf Coast, the southeastern United States boasts an array of stunning beaches waiting to be explored. Whether you're seeking powdery white sands, vibrant coastal communities, or opportunities for outdoor adventure, these states offer a diverse range of coastal destinations sure to satisfy every beach lover's wanderlust. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the best beaches in this region, each offering its own unique charm and attractions.

North Carolina

Cape Hatteras National Seashore: Known for its unspoiled beauty, Cape Hatteras offers miles of pristine shoreline, sand dunes, and opportunities for surfing, fishing, and camping. You will probably also see some seals, birds, and sea turtles!

Wrightsville Beach: Located near Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach features beautiful teal waters, wide sandy shores, and a vibrant coastal community with shops, restaurants, and water sports rentals.

Outer Banks: Stretching along the coast, the Outer Banks offer a variety of beautiful beaches where visitors can enjoy beachcombing, historic lighthouses, and outdoor activities.

South Carolina

Hilton Head Island: Known for its upscale resorts, golf courses, and pristine beaches, Hilton Head Island is just off the mainland of South Carolina, near the Georgia border. Its scenery looks straight out of a movie, with a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation with opportunities for biking, kayaking, and beachfront dining.

Charleston beaches (Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, Seabrook Island, Kiawah Island): Just a short drive from Charleston, there are several beaches that offer wide sandy shores, recreational opportunities, and dining experiences. Each has its own personality, so be sure to try them all and see the unique sights there.

Georgia

Tybee Island: Located just east of Savannah, Tybee Island exudes instant vacation vibes as soon as you drive onto it. There are multiple beaches to explore here, with options to lay out and relax on the north side or turn up the energy a bit on the south side.

Florida

Clearwater Beach: Consistently ranked among the best beaches in the U.S., Clearwater Beach offers soft white sands, clear turquoise waters, and a lively atmosphere with beachfront restaurants and a promenade.

St. Pete Beach: Also highly ranked among the country’s best, this versatile beach caters to people of all ages and interests, with seemingly endless white sands and lots of places to relax or get out and enjoy the water.

Siesta Key (Siesta Beach, Crescent Beach, and Turtle Beach): Siesta Beach is very active, with shops, restaurants, and sports courts. Crescent Beach provides a more private experience to lay out or enjoy a sunset. Turtle Beach is the sportiest of them all, attracting anglers, shell collectors, and boating enthusiasts.

South Beach (Miami Beach): Known for its vibrant nightlife, Art Deco architecture, bustling atmosphere, and feeling of luxury, South Beach is a popular destination for celebrities and beachgoers alike, offering a wide range of activities, from sunbathing to people-watching.

Alabama

Gulf Shores: With its soft white sands and gentle waves, Gulf Shores is a family-friendly destination offering beachfront parks, trails, a pier, and even a ziplining experience.

Mississippi

Gulfport, Biloxi, and Long Beach: These neighboring waterfront towns on the southern coast of the state provide a combination of relaxation and energy, with miles of sandy shores, beachfront restaurants, and piers to explore.

Louisiana

Grand Isle: Louisiana's only inhabited barrier island, Grand Isle offers a state park and a laid-back beach experience with fishing piers, birdwatching opportunities, and access to nearby wildlife refuges. Because there are so many lakes and marshes in Louisiana, there is one road that leads to Grand Isle, so be sure to look for access updates before you go.

Tennessee and Kentucky

While the landlocked Tennessee and Kentucky may not have traditional oceanfront beaches, they offer natural beauty in the form of lakes and rivers, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. A few notable lakes and rivers to explore for water activities and relaxation include Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee National Forest, and Center Hill Lake in Tennessee, as well as Lake Cumberland, Red River Gorge Geological Area, and Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area in Kentucky.

Now it’s time for you to experience the natural beauty and recreational fun in the southeast United States. We hope your time on these sun-drenched shores ignites your spirit of adventure and your appreciation for this region of the country. Grab your beach towel, swimsuit, and favorite floatie, and get out there on the water!

Don’t let the thought of sunny shores distract you from wearing a seat belt. Buckling up saves lives!