West Coast Gems: Top Beaches for Sun and Surf

Updated on Aug 21, 2024 | Online US Visa

From the wide-open seaside of Southern California to the surreal charm of the ocean in Hawaii Islands discover picture perfect coastlines across this side of the United States, that is without a surprise home to some of America's most famous and sought-after beaches.

Nature's magic would simply amaze you at each of these coastal destinations.

Maui, Hawaii

Makena Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches in Maui, Makena beach also known as the Big Beach and given its more than 100 yards of white sand stretch it's no wonder why! 

A perfect spacious beach with clear blue waters, this is also one of the longest beaches in Maui island.

Kaanapali Beach

Known for its crystal clean seas and white sand stretch, this beach area became one of Hawaii's first resort settlements. 

If you plan to visit Maui during the Whale season this beach has to be on your list. Often named among America’s best beaches, visiting Kaanapali beach is a perfect way for welcoming an awesome Hawaiian vacation. 

Waianapanapa State Park and Beach

Talking about the best beaches in Hawaii would be insignificant if we miss out this breath-taking black sand beach which is the main attraction located within the Waianapanapa State Park of Maui. 

Settled in the East Maui town named Hana the Waianapanapa State Park is also Maui’s best known and most popular state park.

Malibu, California

El Matador Beach

Some of the most photographed beaches in entire California are located within the Robert H Meyer Memorial Beach, a term used for three iconic beaches in Malibu. 

Although each of the three beaches within Robert H Meyer Memorial Beach individually stands out, it would be okay to mention El Matador as one of the most well-known among the three. 

From being a memorable picture frame used in many historic Hollywood films to being California's best kept natural wonder, this beach is ready to amaze you at a first glance!

Malibu Lagoon State Beach

Known as the birthplace of modern surfing culture, the area around this beach is classified as California State Park. Also, one the great places for bird watching this is the place where the Malibu Lagoon located near the beach finally meets the Pacific ocean.

Point Dume

One of the most well-known state beaches in California, Point Dume beach is known for its unending rugged coastline, recreational activities and the state’s spectacular marine wildlife including the grey California Whales. 

Big Dume or Dume Cove Beach is one of the main beaches in the area surrounded by cliffs and island rocks gazing at the beautiful vast ocean ahead.

Kauai, Hawaii

Poipu Beach

This crescent shaped beach in Kauai has often been named as America’s best beach and with its crystal blue waters and perfect location it's not surprising to know why! 

A two in one beach, Poipu Beach is specifically known for several feet wide crescent shaped golden sand, great marine life and coral reefs, which can be best explored through many underwater activities. 

Hanalei Bay

A truly spectacular beach in Kauai Island, this place is untouched by crowded commercial projects, becoming one of the best beaches in Hawaii. 

The beach extends for up to two miles along the chain of Kauai mountains and is known as the largest bay on the island’s northern shore.

The peaceful Hanalei town located at the middle of the Hanalei Bay is one must see attraction of Kauai.

Kapa'a Beach

Located on Kauai’s east shore, this beach can be easily accessed from the nearby town of Kapa'a and is a popular weekend getaway for tourists. 

A secluded rocky beach on the island’s north western shore, this beach is one perfect location for a family picnic or watching a quiet sunset.

Princeville

Stretching along the St Regis Princeville resort, this beach with its reddish golden sand is one of the most recognizable beaches in Kauai.

Here you can find the longest offshore coral reef stretch in all of the Hawaiian Islands and can even swim in its shallow turquoise waters during summers!

Honolulu, Hawaii

Waikiki Beach

Surrounded by white sand beaches and high-rise hotels, streets buzzing with fine dining and hula shows, this is one of the most popular destinations of Hawaii. 

Renowned for its famous Moana Surfrider Hotel, this location on Hawaii's Oahu island continues to be the favourite choice for those looking to see some of the best beaches in Hawaii state. 

Kailua Beach

Rated among the most beautiful beaches in Oahu Island, the two and a half mile beach lies at the southern end of Kailua bay. 

In Kailua you can find many world-renowned beaches of Oahu, known for their perfect blue waters for snorkelling.

Waimea Bay Beach 

Popular for its 30-foot waves in winters, world’s best surfers, dolphins, turtles and more, this beach with its breath-taking views can easily become your favourite place in Hawaii! 

Located adjacent to Waimea Valley, a place which shares a significant importance in Hawaiian culture, you would find Waimea Beach to be a less crowded version of Waikiki in Oahu.

Laguna Beach, Southern California

Treasure Island Beach

Located along the Gulf of Mexico, this beach would welcome you with its glass white sand, clear waters, family friendly attractions, and unique shops and restaurants amidst loads of natural beauty.

Tagged as an international family vacation destination, expect to be more amazed at every step at this beach in Florida.

Aliso Beach

Famous for water sports, this Southern Californian beach is most renowned among all the other Laguna beaches. 

A popular sandy beach, the place continues to attract many water sports fans and family vacationers.

Victoria Beach

Crystal clear sand, turquoise waters and castle-like residences including a unique pirate tower, Victoria Beach is a hidden gem among all the beaches in Southern California. 

Built against the cliffs, the castle inspired Pirate Tower and other mansions are only a few among many other outstanding attractions at Victoria Street. 

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Haystack Rock

Cannon Beach coastline is full of breath-taking scenic beauty and Haystack Rock is Oregon's one proud natural landmark. 

The basalt rock formation rises more than 200 feet above the surface creating a magnificent sight to behold. 

Given the exotic beauty of this beach area, this place is probably already on your bucket list! 

Hug Point State Recreation Site

Overloaded with nature's charm, on this side of the coast you would be left amazed by sea caves hiding within the gorgeous sandstone cliffs, waterfalls emerging from the rugged coastline and much more, as you keep admiring the unreal panorama unfolding before you. 

Ecola State Park

Stretching nine miles of outstanding coastline, Ecola State Park area is known for its many scenic spots, hiking trails and most gorgeous views overlooking the Pacific ocean. 

A year round destination, this location has been the site of many film productions as well!

Olympic National Park, Washington State

Rialto Beach

Located within the Olympic National Park, this easy to access beach comes with not one but many picturesque spots, tidepools and Whale viewing sites. 

The Hole-in-the-Wall hike at Rialto is one of its must-see attractions.  

Second Beach

A stunning beach on Washington coast, this place has won recognition world over for its natural splendour. 

Witness the most dramatic scenery of the Pacific from this side of the United States where camping, hiking or a walk through the wilderness would simply win your heart.

Ruby Beach

Known for its massive rock formations and reddish sand, Ruby beach is one of the most recognised beaches along the Olympic National Park coastline. 

And the pretty name for this beach comes from the ruby-like crystals found in its beach sand!

READ MORE:
Situated in the heart of North-Western Wyoming, the Grand Teton National Park is recognised as the American National Park.


Eligible foreign nationals can follow ESTA US Visa process and complete it in 10-15 minutes.

Finnish citizens, Estonian citizens, Icelandic citizens, and Italian citizens can apply online for Online US Visa.