“When beaches become overcrowded, families sacrifice the calm, restorative experience they are looking for,” says Vukan Simic, BoatBooker founder and travel expert. “The beauty is not wasted for that particular instance, but for all travelers who rely on genuine coastal experiences for their well-being.”
Top 20 Hidden Coastal Spots in the U.S.
| Rank | Attraction | City / Locality | State | Rating | Reviews | Score |
| 1 | Vereen Memorial Park | Little River | South Carolina | 4.9 | 98 | 91.55 |
| 2 | Driftwood Beach | Edisto Island | South Carolina | 4.9 | 97 | 90.9 |
| 3 | Gunnison Beach | Sandy Hook | New Jersey | 4.9 | 96 | 90 |
| 4 | Morris Island | Near Charleston | South Carolina | 4.9 | 90 | 89.1 |
| 5 | Torrey Pines City Beach | San Diego (La Jolla) | California | 4.9 | 77 | 84 |
| 6 | Caswell Beach | Caswell Beach | North Carolina | 4.9 | 72 | 82 |
| 6 | Dana Strands Beach | Dana Point | California | 4.9 | 72 | 82 |
| 6 | Pirates Cove Beach | Newport Beach | California | 4.9 | 72 | 82 |
| 9 | Station 22 – Public Beach Access | Sullivan’s Island | South Carolina | 4.9 | 68 | 80 |
| 10 | Edisto Beach State Park Campground | Edisto Beach | South Carolina | 4.8 | 96 | 79.55 |
| 10 | Ocean Isle Beach | Ocean Isle Beach | North Carolina | 4.8 | 96 | 79.55 |
| 12 | Salt Creek Beach | Dana Point | California | 4.8 | 95 | 79.35 |
| 13 | Gulf Shores Beach | Gulf Shores | Alabama | 5 | 51 | 78 |
| 14 | Beach Access #4 – Beach Circle | South Padre Island | Texas | 4.8 | 88 | 77.8 |
| 15 | Cape Hatteras National Seashore | Buxton | North Carolina | 4.9 | 63 | 77.35 |
| 16 | Kirby Beach | San Francisco (Marin Headlands) | California | 4.8 | 86 | 77.1 |
| 17 | Funston Beach | San Francisco | California | 4.8 | 85 | 76.9 |
| 18 | Carolina Beach | Carolina Beach | North Carolina | 4.8 | 81 | 75.35 |
| 18 | Santa Ana River County Beach River Jetties | Newport Beach | California | 5 | 46 | 75.35 |
| 20 | Coquina Beach | Nags Head | North Carolina | 4.8 | 78 | 74.45 |
| 20 | Little Corona Beach | Newport Beach | California | 4.8 | 78 | 74.45 |
| 20 | Crissy Field South Beach | San Francisco | California | 4.9 | 55 | 74.45 |
Simic concludes:
“America’s coast offers unparalleled diversity beyond the tourist beach resorts. America’s off-the-beaten-path coastline offers the authentic American beach experience, the one that travelers are seeking—unspoiled waters, stunning scenery, and the freedom to truly get close to the natural wonders of our country.
For sailors in particular, America is a treasure house of variety—you can sail the length and breadth of guarded barrier islands, or the rugged Pacific bluffs, with first-class facilities to hand.
What makes these hidden American spots special?
- Most are protected by state or national park systems, ensuring pristine conditions
- Many offer unique features like maritime forests, lighthouse views, and wildlife viewing
- Several provide excellent amenities while maintaining their uncrowded character
- Perfect for experiencing authentic regional coastal cultures from the Carolinas to California
- Perfect ratings of 4.8-5.0 stars prove these hidden spots deliver exceptional experiences despite having fewer than 100 reviews each
2025 is all about escaping the noise and finding America’s most peaceful, secret beaches. While everyone else is fighting for space at the famous beaches, savvy travelers can discover the authentic American coast that locals have cherished for generations.”
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