Life
10 Hidden Beaches Across the Country You Should Visit Before Summer Is Over
The end of summer is here, which means it’s time to squeeze in at least one more luxurious day relaxing in the sand, breathing in the fresh air, and topping off your tan while you still have the sun on your side. Just beware! As you start to plan one last epic beach trip (complete with a well-packed picnic, a few summer reads and your favorite summer anthem blasting away), we’re betting there are plenty of other sun-worshippers who are doing the exact same thing. And when you have to fight for a spot to lay out your towel amongst the hundreds of other last-minute beachgoers, that much-anticipated trip to the beach totally loses all of its charm.
Not to worry! Some of America’s best beaches are also its most hidden. We’ve rounded up 10 completely under-the-radar hot spots for you to try out as you get ready to seize what's left of summer. With the long Labor Day weekend ahead of us, now is the perfect time to check out these hidden beach gems.
Image: GregoryMoine/Flickr
Sconset Beach, Nantucket, Massachusetts
Located on the opposite side of Nantucket Island’s downtown area, this secluded beach looks out onto the Atlantic Ocean and is accessible by the five-mile Sconset bike path or by car and a short walk.
Image: Melissa Kravitz
Bowman's Beach, Florida
Bowman’s Beach is a totally picturesque getaway on Sanibel Island that boasts gorgeous stretches of white sand.
Image: GregoryMoineFlickr
Orient Beach, New York
A secret to almost everyone but locals, Orient Beach at the top of Long Island is calm and pristine.
Image: hbarrison/Flickr
Cumberland Island, Georgia
A former Carnegie family summer retreat, Cumberland Island is home to wild horses, armadillos, and sea turtles, and only 300 human visitors are allowed per day to enjoy the 1,000-foot-wide and miles-long stretch of sand.
Image: dougandme/Flickr
San Miguel, California
Channel Islands National Park, known as the Galapagos of North America, is home to more than 2,000 species of plants and animals, including dolphins and sea otters. Catch a ferry from Ventura, and head to the coast of San Miguel Island. Make sure to stop by the lookout at Point Bennett Pinnacle.
Image: baggis/Flickr
Isle of Palms, South Carolina
Isle of Palms is a small resort island just off of Charleston. It’s not super hidden, but its remoteness makes it feel more serene than most of Charleston’s beaches.
Image: moms2brothers/Flickr
Big Bay Beach, Wisconsin
Lake Superior may be too cold for swimming (even in summer), but gorgeous views, sunshine, and sand is perfect any day. Big Bay Beach on Madeline Island is accessible only by ferry!
Image: jw4lk/Flickr
Ruby Beach, Washington
Ruby Beach is a foggy yet romantic spot in the Pacific Northwest, characterized by its tidal pools and cool air.
Image: hawthorneave/Flickr
Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina
This national park is totally remote and offers amazing (and quiet!) views of nature. Pack a picnic and all your supplies – there aren’t any businesses nearby to fall back on if you forget anything!
Image: zrfraileyphotography/Flickr
Matagorda, Texas
This small, beachside community has a permanent population of about 700, most of whom are involved in the fishing industry. Visit this quaint town and enjoy the serene beaches on the Gulf.
Image: draque33/Flickr
