Discover the 11 Longest Beaches in the United States

The United States has around 95,000 amazing miles of shoreline spanning across the Atlantic and the Pacific. The country is also home to beaches found in the tropical islands of Hawaii and the icy landscapes of Alaska. The coastlines of America provide a wide range of landscapes. They range from peaceful and secluded retreats to vibrant and bustling coastal towns. Interestingly, some of the many beaches scattered across the USA hold the title of some of the longest beaches in the country. Let’s dive in and get to know these colossal beaches – some of which are over 50 miles long!

1. Padre Island – 70 miles

You’ll be surprised to know that two beaches claim to be the longest in the United States. One of these beaches is called Padre Island National Seashore, which can be found in Texas. It’s not only one of the longest beaches in the US but also among the longest in the whole world, stretching across 70 miles of sandy shores!

The beach stretches across North and South Padre Island, each part divided by a waterway. This sandy expanse is recognized globally for its drivability. It provides one of the longest stretches of sand where cars can cruise. The beach’s warm waters, a product of the Gulf of Mexico’s currents, make it an inviting spot for year-round aquatic activities.

Here’s an interesting fact: South Padre Island is the longest barrier island worldwide. The area is a hub for sea turtles. In fact, if you want, visitors even have the unique opportunity to symbolically adopt one.

Winter is an ideal time to witness the island’s raw, natural splendor, while spring break and the summer season may present more challenging, crowded conditions. The island itself also supports a blend of recreational and commercial activities, with some sections converted into resort areas and others utilized for oil and gas extraction.

2. Cape Hatteras National Seashore – 70 Miles

Another contender for the title of America’s longest beach is the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. This striking coastal line forms approximately 70 miles of the total 125 miles that encompass the barrier islands known as the Outer Banks, set apart from the mainland of North Carolina by the expansive Pamlico Sound.

This stunning destination offers visitors an abundance of untouched, picturesque beaches and some of the most visually appealing coastal drives on the Eastern Seaboard.

It’s easy to understand why nearly a million people annually are drawn to this beach. It offers uninterrupted oceanic views and an abundance of spots to unwind with a beach towel. Despite the attraction’s popularity, its secluded nooks ensure you can often feel like you have the beach to yourself, no matter the visitor numbers.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore serves as a critical sanctuary for a wide range of birds and animals. From sea turtles and birds who make their homes on the sandy shores to deer that find refuge in the surrounding forests, the region boasts a rich biodiversity.

3. Myrtle Beach – 60 Miles

South Carolina‘s beloved Grand Strand is an impressive 60 miles coastal curve, extending from Little River to Winyah Bay. This makes it the third-longest beach in the United States.

This beach, set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, is no secret spot. In fact, it attracts more than 10 million tourists each year, who flock mainly to its central city, Myrtle Beach.

Its breathtaking natural charm is something you are likely to fall in love with. There’s an array of activities and sights to explore beyond the sandy shores, including beach resorts and seaside towns.

Myrtle Beach is particularly renowned for its stunning stretch of coastline. Its sparkling white sand, inviting warm waters, and abundant seafood dining options provide more than enough for any visitor. Known as the mini-golf capital of the world, Myrtle Beach also boasts over 100 golf areas.

And let’s not forget about shopping. Top-tier malls are scattered throughout the area, offering a shopping experience to rival any in the world. If you’re looking for a long beach that has all the amenities a city can offer, look no further!

4. Cape Cod National Seashore – 40 Miles

Cape Cod National Seashore is the fourth longest beach in the country. Those visiting have the opportunity to trace the well-known path of Henry David Thoreau as he journeyed along the Massachusetts‘ Atlantic coast.

Perched on the outer edge of the Cape Cod peninsula, which juts 60 miles into the Atlantic, this national seashore has long captivated nature lovers. From the towering coastal cliffs to the tranquility of forest-enclosed ponds, it’s not hard to see why many find this location’s natural charm irresistible.

The 40-mile stretch of untouched beach, accompanied by ponds, marshes, and uplands, provides a beautiful playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can partake in walking, swimming, and biking, among other outdoor activities. Just take your pick!

For the nature lover, the coastal, wetland, and forest habitats present a variety of ecosystems to discover. The lighthouses, wild cranberry bogs, and preserved landscapes serve as windows into Cape Cod’s rich history and its contemporary significance.

5. Virginia Beach – 35 Miles

Virginia Beach is situated on the eastern shoreline of the United States in, you guessed it, Virginia. It spans 35 miles and holds the title in The Guinness Book of World Records for being the World’s Longest Pleasure Beach. The beach area and the accompanying three-mile boardwalk are located within the city of Virginia Beach.

A channel, however, separates this city area from the rest of the beach, which stretches further south into North Carolina.

If you want to brush shoulders with the rich and famous, Virginia Beach is a great destination. Celebrities like Mark Ruffalo, Pharrell Williams, Missy Elliot, and even Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson call Virginia Beach home.

Constructed in 1888, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk holds its own acclaim as one of the top five boardwalks in the U.S. Originally built with wood, it was later revamped with concrete in 1927. It provides ample room for various activities, including walking, jogging, dog walking, or simply enjoying stunning views. A specially marked lane for bicycles ensures safe cycling.

The boardwalk is dotted with various accommodations and eateries and even features a fishing pier for angling enthusiasts.

6. Fire Island – 32 Miles

Fire Island is a serene and charming oasis famous for its untouched beaches and peaceful atmosphere. The island beach spans 32 miles, framed by the Great South Bay to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the south.

Having been featured in a plethora of TV shows, documentaries, and big-screen productions, Fire Island has earned itself a place in the spotlight.

This slender barrier island is accessible only via ferry. It houses 17 unique communities, which locals and visitors navigate on foot, bike, wagon, or golf cart. Fire Island is renowned for its miles of quiet, pristine beaches, age-old maritime woods, and its relaxed daytime demeanor contrasting with its lively nighttime aura.

Tourists can ascend the 182 steps of the historic Fire Island Lighthouse, constructed in 1858, for panoramic ocean views. Other activities include guided canoe tours through the Salt Marsh, exploring the unique 40-acre Sunken Forest at Sailors’ Haven, and enjoying the public marinas for boating and fishing. 

A trip to Fire Island isn’t complete without stopping by CJ’s to sample the island’s famous specialty drink, rocket fuel.

7. Long Beach – 28 Miles

The seventh position in the ranking of longest beaches in the United States is held by Long Beach in Washington. Spanning 28 miles, it significantly outpaces many other beaches across the nation in terms of length.

Long Beach is also a state park and forms a peninsula extending north from the town of Long Beach, located just a short distance from Highway 101, north of Astoria.

The Pacific Ocean flanks its west, the Columbia River’s mouth lies to the south, and Willapa Bay borders the east. The bay is renowned for housing the largest and highest-quality oyster beds in the United States, so make sure to savor some during your visit. Other local treats include clams, crabs, and cranberries.

Only certain sections of the beach are accessible to vehicles, provided they are suitable for such terrain. However, some areas are off-limits to safeguard the clam habitats. Therefore, don’t arrive expecting to embark on a 28-mile drive along the beach.

8. Biloxi Beach – 26 Miles

Harrison County in Mississippi has the world’s most extensive artificial beach, a stunning 26-mile stretch adorned with white sand, sand dunes, and a pedestrian walkway.

Casinos and golfing aside, Biloxi’s beach serves as one of the city’s primary attractions, and for a good reason! The gentle, white sands have been impressively restored since the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and are meticulously maintained. 

Thanks to the barrier islands in the Gulf of Mexico, the beach waters remain calm and ideal for swimming. 

The attractive climate plays a significant role in the charm of Biloxi Beach. With average high temperatures consistently hitting the 80s or 90s from May to September, it’s fair to say the beach weather in Biloxi is just about perfect.

9. Canaveral National Seashore – 24 Miles

Canaveral National Seashore is a paradise for those who enjoy paddling. It boasts the longest stretch of untouched coastline in Florida, with 24 miles of essential coastal parkland for both people and wildlife to enjoy.

The best time to visit is during the weekdays when visitors can bask in the sun, swim, fish, surf, or hunt for sea beans and sea glass. During the cooler winter months, strolling nature and historical trails can be a delightful experience.

Canaveral National Seashore is home to the largest untouched and natural beach on Florida’s east coast. Every year, it serves as a sanctuary for more sea turtle nests than any other national park.

The barrier island and its nearby water bodies support a rich array of flora and fauna. Records indicate that the park is home to 310 bird species and 1,045 plant species. 

It also shelters various endangered species, including, but not limited to, green and leatherback sea turtles, loggerhead, West Indian manatees, eastern indigo snakes, wood storks, Southern bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and Florida scrub jays.

10. Daytona Beach – 23 Miles

Known as the “World’s Most Famous Beach,” Daytona Beach, with its 23-mile stretch of wide, firm, and sandy white shoreline, stands out for a variety of reasons. 

Notably, it was the site of the inaugural automobile and motorcycle races in 1902. These days, while professional racers prefer the Daytona International Speedway, the “World Center of Racing,” tourists continue to appreciate the pleasure of a leisurely drive (10 mph) along designated areas of Daytona Beach, depending on the tide.

Driving along the beach has become an iconic and favorite pastime for those visiting Daytona Beach. Visitors can enjoy a drive or simply park their car to relish a day on the beach, with everything needed just a short distance from their beach towel. 

Cars aren’t the only way to traverse these stunning beaches. Golf carts are available for rent in Daytona Beach, and those on bicycles can have just as much fun. The white-sand beaches offer the perfect setting for a morning cycle, a lazy afternoon ride, or a romantic evening pedal before hitting the town.

Additional excitement can be found at the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier. Packed with roller coasters,  amusement arcades filled with classic games, and food stalls offering delicacies like deep-dish pizza, it’s a hub of entertainment. And what better way to finish your day than with a peaceful walk across the soft, golden sands of Daytona Beach?

11. Flagler Beach – 19 Miles

A paradise for those who love the beach, Flagler County, Florida, offers 19 miles of untouched sand beaches, ideal for surfing some of Florida’s best waves, combing the beach, swimming, or simply basking in the sun.

Nestled between Daytona Beach and St. Augustine on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, the charming Flagler Beach presents miles of glistening beaches, abundant fishing opportunities, beachfront shops, dining options with water views, and an array of natural parks and other attractions.

Flagler Beach boasts a vintage charm and a relaxed atmosphere. Its hospitable locals and open-air eateries provide the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon.

Explore the variety of unique shops in Flagler Beach, catch a wave, or take in more than six miles of breathtaking ocean views – all with complimentary beach access.

From rooftop cafés, you can admire the ocean while listening to tunes from local musicians. The natural beauty of this island remains a hidden treasure to many.

Summary of the 11 Longest Beaches in the United States

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Kevin Ruck/Shutterstock.com