When it comes to beach vacations in the United States, many travelers flock to popular spots like Miami Beach, Malibu, or Waikiki. However, hidden gems along the coastline offer tranquility and charm without the crowds. In this article, we unveil 11 secret beaches across the U.S. that deserve recognition for their pristine beauty and serene atmosphere.
1. Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach, North Carolina
Tucked away on Ocracoke Island, this beach boasts miles of untouched shoreline and crystal-clear waters. With limited access and minimal development, visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls and unparalleled sunsets.
Location and Access
Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach is located on Ocracoke Island, part of the Outer Banks of North Carolina, within the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The beach is known for its serene and relatively untouched natural landscape, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Getting There
Reaching Ocracoke Island is an adventure in itself, typically requiring a ferry ride. The island is accessible via three main ferry routes:
- Swan Quarter Ferry: Takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes, with reservations recommended.
- Cedar Island Ferry: Similar in duration to the Swan Quarter Ferry, it also recommends booking in advance.
- Hatteras Ferry: Offers a shorter ferry time and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
These ferries offer a unique journey through the scenic waters, possibly accompanied by sightings of dolphins and passing through beautiful barrier islands.
Amenities and Activities
Once you arrive, Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach offers various amenities, including showers, changing rooms, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit. The beach is lifeguarded from Memorial Day through Labor Day, providing a safe swimming environment. The area is known for its warm waters, thanks to the nearby Gulf Stream, and the presence of lifeguards during the summer months adds an extra layer of safety for beachgoers.
Accommodations and Transportation
Visitors can choose from a range of accommodations on the island, including vacation rentals, boutique hotels, B&Bs, a small RV park, and a larger campground by the beach within the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. For the best experience, booking in advance during the peak season is advised.
Getting around Ocracoke Island is easy and eco-friendly, with most places accessible by bike. The island encourages visitors to embrace the slow, laid-back lifestyle by biking between destinations, although golf carts and a free village tram are available for those who prefer not to bike.
Safety and Regulations
Visitors are reminded to pay attention to the ocean conditions, especially the risks posed by rip currents. The beach provides information on how to escape rip currents for everyone’s safety. While enjoying the water and beach activities, it’s crucial to stay within designated areas, especially near the lifeguarded sections.
Attractions and Activities
Beyond relaxing on the beach, Ocracoke Island offers a wealth of activities and attractions, from exploring Ocracoke Village with its charming shops and local cuisine to outdoor adventures in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The island’s rich history, including tales of pirates and maritime heritage, provides an intriguing backdrop to your beach vacation.
For an up-to-date guide on weather conditions, ferry schedules, and other travel tips, it’s best to consult the official websites of the North Carolina Department of Transportation for ferry information and the National Park Service for beach and safety guidelines. This will ensure a well-informed and enjoyable visit to Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach and its surrounding attractions.
2. Cumberland Island, Georgia
Accessible only by ferry, Cumberland Island offers a secluded retreat surrounded by unspoiled wilderness. Beachcombers can spot wild horses roaming the sandy shores, adding to the enchanting allure of this hidden paradise.
Planning Your Visit
To experience the wonders of Cumberland Island, your journey begins in St. Marys, Georgia, where you board the ferry to the island. The National Park Service emphasizes the importance of making ferry and camping reservations in advance, arriving one hour before your scheduled departure, and preparing for a visit with no shops or amenities on the island. Essential items to bring include food, drinks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes. The island is a fee park, with entry fees payable at the mainland visitor center upon check-in for the ferry.
Transportation
Once on the island, transportation options are limited to foot or bike as there are no paved roads and cars are not an option. The passenger ferry provides the primary access to the island, with reservations recommended to secure your spot. Private boats have limited docking options at Sea Camp and Dungeness docks or the more open Plum Orchard dock, though overnight docking is not permitted.
Activities and Accommodations
Cumberland Island is a treasure trove of activities, from exploring more than 50 miles of trails and roads, experiencing the dramatic scenery of the south end, or taking guided tours to uncover the island’s rich history and natural beauty. For those looking to extend their stay, camping is available, or you can opt for a luxurious stay at the Greyfield Inn, offering gourmet dinners, naturalist-led tours, and plush accommodations.
What to Know Before You Go
- Ferry Service: The 45-minute ferry ride from St. Marys is the primary access to the island. Due to the ferry’s seasonal schedule, checking and booking in advance is crucial.
- Wildlife and Scenery: The island’s unspoiled beaches, maritime forests, and the presence of wild horses offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature.
- Historic Sites: The ruins of Dungeness, Plum Orchard Mansion, and Greyfield Inn offer a peek into the island’s storied past.
- Hiking and Biking: With extensive trails and the option to bring bikes on the ferry, visitors can explore the island’s natural and historical sites at their own pace.
Cumberland Island’s combination of natural beauty, history, and solitude makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking an escape into nature’s embrace. Preparing and planning your trip in advance will ensure a smooth and enriching experience on this enchanting barrier island.
3. Second Beach, Washington
Located within Olympic National Park, Second Beach is a rugged coastline dotted with sea stacks and tide pools. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity for tide-pooling, beachcombing, and admiring the majestic sea stacks against the Pacific backdrop.
Getting to Second Beach involves a scenic drive from Seattle, with options to take a ferry to Bainbridge Island or Bremerton, or to drive around Puget Sound. The journey includes passing through the beautiful vistas of Lake Crescent before reaching the trailhead near La Push. The trail to Second Beach is a 0.7-mile hike with an 80-foot elevation gain and a 100-foot loss on the way in, offering an accessible adventure for most visitors.
Camping at Second Beach is a remarkable experience, with options for beach and forested sites. It’s essential to have an Olympic National Park Wilderness Permit for overnight stays. Visitors are advised to store all food, garbage, and scented items in park-approved bear canisters to protect the wildlife. The area provides a pit toilet where the trail meets the beach, and campfires are permitted on the beach using only driftwood.
For those interested in exploring the area further, Second Beach offers excellent tide-pooling opportunities, especially if you arrive about an hour before low tide. The entire length of the beach is worth exploring, from the dramatic cliffs near Teahwhit Head to the small cave at the southern end. The Quillayute Needles National Wildlife Refuge, visible from the beach, is a critical habitat for seabirds and has played a vital role in the recovery of the sea otter population. While the refuge itself is off-limits to humans, it offers spectacular views and wildlife observation opportunities from the beach.
Accommodation options near Second Beach range from the Quileute Oceanside Resort on First Beach, offering cabins facing the water, to more budget-friendly options like the Forks Motel and mid-range accommodations like Quillayute River Resort. These provide a comfortable base for exploring Second Beach and the surrounding areas.
Whether you’re interested in camping, hiking, wildlife observation, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of the Washington coast, Second Beach in the Olympic National Park offers a diverse range of activities and sights that cater to various interests and age groups.
4. Sand Dollar Beach, California
Nestled along the Big Sur coastline, Sand Dollar Beach is a tranquil haven for surfers, sunbathers, and photographers. Its dramatic cliffs, expansive sands, and rolling waves create an idyllic setting for relaxation and exploration.
Getting There
Sand Dollar Beach is easily accessible from Highway 1, located about halfway between Cambria and Big Sur Station. The area features the Sand Dollar Day-Use Picnic Area and is situated across Highway 1 from Plaskett Creek Campground. For detailed directions, it’s recommended to use Highway 1, and it’s about 30 miles north of San Simeon or 60 miles south of Carmel.
Features and Activities
- Beachcombing and Tidepooling: While the beach is not always filled with sand dollars, the best time to find them is during low tides in the winter months. The beach is also a great spot for finding jade stones and other sea rocks along the shore.
- Surfing and Swimming: The beach is known as one of the few worthy surf spots in Big Sur, although no lifeguard is on duty.
- Picnicking: With picnic tables, toilets, and parking available, it’s a perfect spot for a day out with family or friends.
- Hiking: There’s a trail leading down to the beach which is safer and more accessible compared to others in the area, like the steep path to Jade Cove.
Amenities and Fees
The Sand Dollar Beach offers amenities such as picnic tables, toilets, and parking. A day-use fee of $10 is required, or you can opt for the Parks Management Company (PMC) Annual Day Use Pass. The area is managed by the Parks Management Concession Company for the Forest Service. Note that no overnight camping is allowed at the beach.
Considerations
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on the beach but must be kept on a leash.
- Operational Hours: The area is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and it’s best to visit during the open season from January to December.
- Trail Closure: Be aware that the trail to the beach may be closed due to storm damage, so it’s advisable to check the current conditions before planning your visit.
For those staying overnight or looking for camping options, Plaskett Creek Campground is located across Highway 1 from Sand Dollar Beach and offers a convenient place to stay. The campground is well equipped and provides a comfortable base for exploring the surrounding Big Sur area.
Whether you’re interested in surfing, hiking, or just relaxing by the ocean, Sand Dollar Beach offers a beautiful and serene setting for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of California’s coastline.
5. Caladesi Island State Park, Florida
Caladesi Island State Park offers a pristine oasis away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Clearwater Beach. Visitors can kayak through mangrove forests, spot nesting shorebirds, or unwind on the secluded shoreline.
The island is not only known for its stunning white-sand beaches but also for its diverse ecosystems, including dunes filled with beach elders and sea oats, woods home to gopher tortoises, and mangrove forests rich with aquatic life. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as beach chair rentals, fishing, shelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing from the north shore. For hiking enthusiasts, the Beach Loop and Hammock Loop trails offer a glimpse into the island’s unique habitats and the chance to spot rare bird species.
For food and necessities, Cafe Caladesi & Store on the island provides burgers, sandwiches, and other casual fare, along with beach gear, gifts, and souvenirs. Despite its secluded nature, the island ensures visitors have access to amenities for a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Caladesi Island also boasts a fascinating history and vibrant natural life, including various plant, animal, and bird species. Its mangrove forests, one of Florida’s few, play a critical role in filtering pollutants and providing a habitat for marine life while acting as a natural buffer against storm surges. The seagrass beds and sandy beaches on the island contribute to its ecological diversity, supporting many species of flora and fauna.
For those planning a visit, it’s essential to note that Caladesi Island State Park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year, with a boat fee of $6. The park’s untouched nature and array of activities make it an unforgettable destination for anyone looking to explore Florida’s natural beauty.
For more detailed information, visiting hours, and specific activities, you can explore the official Florida State Parks website and additional resources like Visit Florida and Florida Vacationers.
6. Shi Shi Beach, Washington
Trek through lush coastal forests to reach Shi Shi Beach, a remote stretch of coastline known for its towering sea stacks and tide-carved arches. Camping under the stars is popular for those seeking a genuinely immersive coastal experience.
To visit Shi Shi Beach, Wilderness Camping Permits are required for overnight stays, ensuring the preservation of its pristine conditions. The beach is part of the coastal wilderness area north of Cape Alava, which has been reopened as of March 15 in alignment with the reopening of the Makah Reservation by the Makah Tribe. Visitors should be aware that all food, garbage, and scented items must be stored in park-approved bear canisters to protect wildlife and maintain the cleanliness of the beach.
For those planning to stay overnight, designated private parking lots are available for parking, with no overnight parking permitted at the trailhead itself. It’s also important to note that pets, use of weapons, and wheeled devices are prohibited on the coastal beaches and trails to protect the natural environment and wildlife of the area.
Shi Shi Beach offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, whether you’re interested in camping, hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of the Washington coast. Remember to prepare for your visit by checking current conditions, obtaining necessary permits, and respecting the guidelines set forth by the National Park Service to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
7. Assateague Island, Maryland & Virginia
Famous for its wild ponies and untouched landscapes, Assateague Island is a haven for nature lovers and beachgoers alike. Whether camping along the dunes or lounging on the sandy shores, visitors can immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty.
The island is accessible year-round, inviting visitors to rest, relax, and enjoy the edge of the continent. It undergoes constant change, shaped daily by ocean wind and waves, which contributes to its dynamic landscape. Activities such as kayaking provide an excellent way to explore the island’s natural beauty. For those interested in camping, Assateague Island provides a memorable experience with beachside campsites available; however, planning ahead is crucial due to the island’s barrier island conditions.
Assateague Island is managed by the National Park Service in Maryland and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service in Virginia, with the Maryland district also featuring Assateague State Park managed by the State of Maryland. The island’s unique ecosystems support a diverse range of wildlife, including the wild horses that are perhaps its most iconic inhabitants. These horses are adapted to the challenging conditions of barrier island life, and visitors are advised to enjoy their beauty from a distance to ensure their continued well-being.
For more detailed information on planning your visit, including operating hours, fees, and camping reservations, visit the National Park Service’s official page for Assateague Island National Seashore. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous exploration of nature’s wonders, Assateague Island offers an unparalleled experience on the edge of the Atlantic.
8. Bandon Beach, Oregon
Located along the southern Oregon coast, Bandon Beach captivates visitors with its unique rock formations and windswept dunes. Explore tidal pools teeming with marine life or watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues over the Pacific horizon.
9. Shipwreck Beach, Hawaii
Nestled on the rugged coast of Lanai, Shipwreck Beach offers a glimpse into Hawaii’s maritime history amidst stunning natural beauty. Explore the shoreline dotted with rusting shipwrecks or hike along coastal cliffs for breathtaking panoramic views.
10. Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina
Stretching across miles of pristine coastline, Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether fishing from the shore, surfing the waves, or simply lounging on the beach, visitors can savor the unspoiled beauty of this coastal gem.
11. Sand Beach, Maine
Nestled within Acadia National Park, Sand Beach is a picturesque cove framed by rugged cliffs and evergreen forests. Despite its chilly waters, this hidden gem offers a serene escape for those seeking solitude and natural beauty along the Maine coast.
Conclusion:
While popular beach destinations have their allure, these 11 secret beaches across the United States offer a unique blend of tranquility, natural beauty, and adventure. Whether seeking solitude, outdoor exploration, or simply a break from the crowds, these hidden gems promise an unforgettable coastal experience. Explore these lesser-known treasures and discover the beauty that lies off the beaten path.
