There are many different pastimes associated with a beach holiday, from active to intellectual, to downright sedentary. But whatever your preference, most people agree on the definition of a ‘paradise’ beach: fine golden or white sand, warm blue-green sea for safe swimming, waves that break on the shore providing a gentle lullaby (or more powerful breakers for surfing or atmosphere), warm temperatures so you can lounge around in beach wear, restaurants for refreshments, and perhaps some places of interest nearby for when you feel like a break from the beach. You will find many beaches in the US that tick all of these boxes, as well as a whole lot more.
Manele Bay, Hawaii
Hawaii is made up of hundreds of islands spread over 1,500 miles – and islands mean beaches by their very definition. Hawaii’s diverse natural scenery, warm climate all year round, and active volcanoes make the state a popular destination for surfers, water sports enthusiasts, volcanologists, biologists and beach bums alike. The eight main islands are at the southeastern end of the archipelago; Lana’i is one of these islands. Hulopoe Beach is on the south of the island and is considered one of the most perfect beaches in the world. The Four Seasons Resort at Manele Bay overlooks Hulopoe Bay, a designated marine preserve – perfect for fans of snorkeling, diving and swimming.
Coronado, California
Coronado is approximately five and a half hours by plane from Hawaii, in California, on the west coast of the US. This sandy enclave of San Diego is popular with families, groups, singles, and couples, as it has three world-class resorts, a plethora of restaurants, water sports, local festivals and is fabulous for shell collecting. Coronado central beach stretches for 1.5 miles, and is adored by swimmers, surfers and sand sculptors alike. Whale watchers can be found here between December and February.
St. Pete Beach, Florida.
Right on the other side of the USA, on the west coast of Florida, is St. Pete Beach. St. Pete Beach was voted the number one beach in the USA, and number five in the world by tripadvisor in 2012. Pleasant temperatures all year round, water sports, surfing, and fishing from the pier make it the perfect paradise beach destination. Nearby, visitors can enjoy an African Safari at Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay, a roller coaster ride, and the Dali Museum. Cuisine here includes freshly caught seafood and a steakhouse. Old Florida motels and inns can be found along the beaches, or for a five-star experience try the beachside villas at Bluegreen at Tradewinds from Bluegreen Vacations. Located near the city of Tampa, the resort is secluded within a 20-acre paradise, which includes 5 pools, whirlpools, 11 eateries, live entertainment, a spa, and a fitness room. Visit nearby Corey Avenue for specialty shops, the Beach Theatre, galleries and restaurants.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is less than 600 miles away from St. Pete Beach, in South Carolina, on the east coast of the US (above Florida and Georgia). Myrtle Beach is the largest resort along South Carolina’s 60-mile Grand Strand, a large stretch of beaches between Little River and Georgetown. Follow the Bluegreen Resorts Facebook for details of their resorts in Myrtle Beach, and other locations in the US. Myrtle Beach is known for golf and good food – there are over 100 golf courses, and more than 1000 restaurants in the Grand Strand area from which to choose. At Myrtle Beach, you can enjoy water parks, amusements, live entertainment and restaurants. Also within reach are nature preserves, shopping centers and museums – even an Alligator and reptile zoo, with wooden boardwalks over swamps and marshes. The beach itself consists of white sand, and the sea is perfect for bathing and water sports.
There are beaches in the US that will offer you a little piece of paradise. Whether you like to relax and soak up the sun and ambience, to party, partake in water sports, or to explore and learn about the geography, biology or history of a place, you will find an idyllic location. This is because the beaches in the US really are among the best paradise beaches in the world.
