For a scenic beach vacation, Florida, North Carolina, California, Hawaii, and Rhode Island are likely options. This is because all of these states are known for their beautiful beaches and picturesque coastal towns. While these beach locations are fun in the sun, they're also congested and expensive due to their popularity.
Idaho may not be your first choice for a beach vacation, but it has some stunning spots. Orval Hansen Point Beach on Redfish Lake in Sawtooth National Forest is popular.
Known for its mountains and snow, Maine has some stunning beaches. The picturesque hamlet of Kennebunkport has many beaches where you may see seals. Ogunquit, a little Maine village with beautiful beaches and superb restaurants, and Boothbay Harbor, a tiny waterside hamlet, are hidden gems.
Though landlocked, Michigan proves you don't need the water to have beautiful beaches. Lake Huron beaches include family-friendly Cheboygan State Park, Lakeside Beach, and Mackinaw City Beach. Grand Haven and Holland State Beach Park are on Lake Michigan.
Several people visit Texas for Austin or Dallas, but the state boasts several fantastic beach getaways. Port Aransas features six miles of white-sand beaches and mild waters for swimming.
It's hard to imagine Washington isn't a beach destination with so many beautiful beaches. A popular beach town with 28 miles of sand and a wonderful boardwalk, Long Beach is not to be mistaken with Long Beach in California.
You usually think of Montauk or Coney Island when you think of New York beaches. These are fantastic, but the state has more great beaches. Fire Island National Seashore, a barrier island off Long Island, contains some of the state's best pristine beaches and quaint communities (no automobiles permitted) in the Atlantic Ocean and Great South Bay.
People head south for beach vacations in the Carolinas or Florida. Alabama should be added if you didn't. Gulf Shores is a popular destination with 32 miles of coastline, a small town vibe, and many fun activities. Orange Beach is nearby and equally lovely and enjoyable. Fairhope is a charming town with family-friendly seas, and Dauphin Island is a hidden gem with stunning vistas.
First comes Cannon Beach, noted for its large rocks in the water. Oceanside has great vistas, while Gleneden Beach has fun in the sun and a nearby pine forest worth exploring. Another northside beach, Seaside Beach, is close to Portland and offers the best of both worlds.