Last updated: March 2024
Anyone else daydreaming about powder-soft white sand beaches, sparkling turquoise water and slow, breathtaking sunsets – without leaving the United States? You’re in luck. With the wealth of easily accessible locales boasting said wish list right here in the continental USA, this is one dream that can easily become a reality for fellow Stateside beach babes (& bums). No passport or achingly long flight needed. Just grab your swimsuit, SPF and oversized shades and say hello to endless summer.
Related: Here’s How to Get a Free Room Upgrade & Perks on Your Upcoming Hotel Stay.
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Best Tropical Beaches in the United States: Destin, FL
Nicknamed the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin has come a long way from its sleepy fishing town roots – stretching back to the 1830s – to become one of the most popular spots on the Florida Panhandle today. This peninsular paradise is situated off the northwest Florida mainland, maintaining an intimate, friendly atmosphere among 13,000 year-round residents and 40,000+ who descend in the summer. Destin offers everything a bonafide beach bum could ask for: posh beach houses, luxurious beachfront hotels, snorkeling, scuba diving, glistening emerald waters and of course, that perfect, sugar-white sand.
Destin, Florida: What to Do
When not clocking toes-in-the-sand time along one of Destin’s famed beaches, you can spot wild dolphins in their natural habitat on a daytime or sunset dolphin-watching cruise, glide along the Emerald Coast as the captain of your own 12-person pontoon boat, hit the water snorkeling and dolphin spotting, or explore private offshore islands by jet ski.
Of course, no trip to Destin is complete without a visit to Crab Island: a sandbar situated about 1 – 4 feet deep dotted with floating bars, obstacle courses and plenty of sun-seeking revelers. You could visit on a boat, or roll up in this palapa-covered, tiki-themed vessel that screams tropical kitsch.
Looking to dial up the romance? Treat your S.O. to a private sunset beach dinner on a secluded island. Or, make it a party. The exclusive experience can host up to 30 guests.
Destin, Florida: Where to Eat
Dine gulf-to-table at Harbor Docks, nosh on Southern-style sea fare at Boshamps (get the pan-roasted Gulf grouper and baked pimento cheese), throw back oysters and firecracker shrimp at AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar, share a heaping plate of seafood nachos at Harry T’s Lighthouse or indulge in the day’s fresh catch at Sexton’s Seafood Market. When you’ve had your fill of sea fare, hit up Mimmo’s Ristorante Italiano or La Paz.
Destin, Florida: Where to Stay
When you’re ready to bed down in Destin, head to our top 4-star picks: The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa or condo-style Emerald Grande at Harborwalk Village.
Related: These Stunning Overwater Resorts in the Caribbean Are Bringing the Maldives to You
Best Tropical Beaches in the United States: South Padre Island, Texas
Just a day’s drive from major Texas cities like Houston and Dallas, this seaside paradise is popular amongst families, couples and Texan spring breakers alike. Expect 34 miles of pristine coastline situated between the glistening Gulf and Laguna Madre, alongside ample opportunities for activities like boating, fishing and kiteboarding – not to mention a string of funky hotels and late-night beach haunts to get your Mai-Tai on.
South Padre Island, Texas: What to Do
Embark on a half-day boat tour of South Padre Island and Port Brownsville, where you’ll learn about the South Texas shrimping industry, enjoy complimentary shrimp cocktail and even get a glimpse of Elon Musk’s SpaceX Starbase. Get a bird’s eye view of the emerald coastline while parasailing, hit the Gulf on a jetski rental, historical jet ski tour or banana boat, or head out into the jewel-toned waters on a daytime or sunset dolphin-watching tour.
Prefer to cruise private? This 26-foot catamaran has you & your crew covered whether you’re looking for South Padre history, shipwrecks and wild dolphins or a breathtaking sunset. Families, you won’t want to miss partaking in So Padre’s time-honored tradition of sand-castling, and groups – see how fast you can get through the isle’s culturally-immersive scavenger hunt.
South Padre Island, Texas: Where to Eat
Fuel up on brunch-with-a-view at legendary Café on the Beach (go for the migas or malted pancakes), or head to Josephine’s Kitchen for award-winning shrimp & grits. Throw back brewed on-site beer and elevated pub fare (think: beer battered shrimp, Texas quail and plenty of vegan options) at Padre Island Brewing Co, or enjoy Latin-inspired cuisine with a modern coastal flair at bayside eatery Viva SPI. The views are just as spectacular as the eats – and jalapeño margs.
The Meatball Café is a fan-favorite for pizza and pasta on the greenery-encircled patio, while dockside Mahi Nic is your spot for burgers, fully loaded nachos and frozen margs. Don’t miss Dirty Al’s for Gulf coast-comfort food or Daddy’s Seafood & Cajun Kitchen – they’re both owned by the same So Padre family.
South Padre Island, Texas: Where to Stay
When planning a trip to South Padre Island, you need look no further than Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre. The 4-star oceanfront getaway is bound to put you on island time, from ubiquitous tropical-themed decór to all-ocean view rooms and suites to the kitschy Salty Rim swim-up bar & grill.
Isla Grand Beach Resort is a close second, or check-in to So Padre original The Palms: a retro 30-room stay originally opened in 1972 as a drive-up motor lodge.
Best Tropical Beaches in the United States: Catalina Island, Southern California
Nestled 22 miles off the Los Angeles coast, Catalina Island is known for its wildlife, dive sites, Mt. Orizaba (its highest peak) and storied history filled with tales of smugglers, gold diggers, pirates, hunters, the Union army and missionaries. Head to picturesque Descanso Beach for an Instagram-worthy shoreline dotted with endless palm trees and cabanas, then to the quaint social center of Avalon for shopping, gallery-hopping and fabulous dining. On the other side of Catalina, the rustic village of Two Harbors awaits outdoor lovers and those looking to get off-the-beaten-path.
To reach the island: catch a ferry from Newport Beach, Long Beach, San Pedro or Dana Point, take a private boat or for the true jet-setter – arrange for a private plane or helicopter.
Catalina Island, California: What to Do
Once on-island, you can easily get around on foot, bike or golf cart. Upgrade the latter with a private guided golf cart tour, get your Catalina crash course on this 50-minute scenic tour in a 6-passenger open vehicle, or ditch the wheels for a unique semi-submarine cruise diving into the underwater world of Catalina Island. The 45-minute experience is exploratory, entertaining and great for families.
Looking for on-land adventure? Head into the island’s protected and rugged interior to ascend to the Airport-in-the-Sky and here, Catalina Island Conservancy’s Nature Center. On this 2-hour adventure tour, you’ll spot everything from bison, bald eagles and the endemic Catalina Island fox to an original Native American gathering site. Looking for something a bit…otherworldly? You can learn about the island’s spooky history from a local historian on this nighttime ghost walking tour.
When you’re ready to go toes-in-the-sand, rent a private cabana or pair of chaise loungers at Descanso Beach Club, or, on the other side of the island, grab a palapa on the shores of Isthmus Cove at Harbor Sands.
Catalina Island, California: Where to Eat
In Avalon, enjoy beachside bites and bevs on the ocean-view patio of aforementioned Descanso Beach Club, the town’s only beachfront eatery. Pair California coastal cuisine with wine and micro-brews at Avalon Grille, or head to Antonio’s for fresh American fare (think: flatbreads, pizzas sandwiches and salads) on the waterfront. Bistro at the Atwater is your go-to for a perfectly brewed morning pick-me-up. Later, throw back a brew at Flx Biergarten, where charming string lights and cozy firepits accent umbrella-dotted outdoor tables.
In Two Harbors, enjoy beachside burgers, steaks and sea fare at South Pacific-style Harbor Reef Restaurant, where you can choose from table, private palapa or lounge chair dining. Or, stock up on specialty foods, wine and spirits from Two Harbors General Store and hit one of the surrounding campgrounds for a gourmet picnic.
Catalina Island, California: Where to Stay
On Catalina Island, Mt. Ada is the obvious choice. The only Forbes Travel Guide 4-star hotel on the island, the hillside-perched mansion is the former residence of William Wrigley Jr. and his wife Ada. Wrigley Jr. purchased Catalina Island in 1919 and his descendants still own it today. If you can secure one of the hotel’s six exclusive suites (the property books out well in advance), you can expect sweeping island views, concierge service and the wafting glamour of a bygone era.
Other top picks in Avalon include historic – and design-forward – Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel, Mediterranean-style Bellanca Hotel, charming Hotel Atwater or waterfront Hotel Metropole, while in Two Harbors, look no further than Banning House Lodge. The historic bed & breakfast with-a-view was originally built by the Banning Brothers, who first established Catalina Island as a resort destination in 1894.
Best Tropical Beaches in the United States: Orange Beach, Alabama
Lacing the edges of Alabama’s southern border against the cotton-white shores of the Gulf, Orange Beach offers miles of beautiful sand, calm, emerald-turquoise water and access to the interior bays and bayous lying just north of nearby Perdido Pass. In addition to getting in some serious beach time, expect activities like deep-sea fishing, championship golf, zip-lining, seaside shopping and dining, plus – Mardi Gras celebrations.
Orange Beach, Alabama: What to Do
Thanks to the plethora of marinas dotting the intracoastal waterway, Orange Beach is a veritable wonderland for boaters and water enthusiasts. When you’re ready to head out to sea, you can embark on a daytime or golden hour dolphin and nature eco-cruise, glide along the Gulf in a scenic sunset catamaran cruise, or board a small-group floating tiki bar and explore the town’s sprinkling of offshore islets. Looking to roll VIP? Opt for this customizable island-hopping cruise accommodating private groups up to 6, or for angler adventure, this private off-shore fishing charter.
Back on land, it doesn’t get more fun than exploring Orange Beach in a sweet ride: this Polaris Slingshot rental or 4-door convertible Jeep rental are the wheels you need.
Orange Beach, Alabama: Where to Eat
One of few eateries in Orange Beach boasting an actual beachfront location, head to CoastAL for apps, sammies, tacos and seafood baskets – best washed down with their signature CoastAL Colada. Reserve a table at Louisiana Lagniappe, where you can pair Cajun Seafood Gumbo, Grouper Pontchartrain and more Creole-flair seafood with marina views. Nosh on sea and land fare alike at The Gulf, where bold-hued shipping containers accent the beachfront setting overlooking Perdido Pass, head to Cobalt for happy hour (and Sunday brunch) or enjoy live music and sunset views at OSO at Bear Point Harbor.
Of course, no visit to Orange Beach could be complete without a visit to Tacky Jack’s. The Alabama mainstay counts three locations along the state’s Gulf shoreline. In Orange Beach, access the waterfront eatery by land or boat, grab a table with a view – you may even spot splashing dolphins just offshore – and indulge in seafood platters, po’boys and the famous frozen Bushwacker (voted the best on the Alabama coast).
Orange Beach, Alabama: Where to Stay
Resort life reigns supreme in Orange Beach, and you’re well-advised to soak it in at our top picks: luxurious Perdido Beach Resort, Island House Hotel Orange Beach – a DoubleTree by Hilton, where every room has an ocean view, or condo-style Caribe Resort (that happens to have its own lazy river).
Hilton enthusiasts, you can also check-in to 4-star The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel. It’s not in Orange Beach proper, but mere minutes away in neighboring Gulf Shores.
Best Tropical Beaches in the United States: Florida Keys & Key West
Paradise found would be an understatement. Hardly an introduction needed, this string of tropical islands – namely, Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, The Lower Keys and Key West – stretches about 120 miles off the southern tip of Florida. Here, sparkling waters in swirling shades of turquoise, emerald and seafoam, an endless balmy breeze and as much relaxation (or action) as you desire surround hundreds of islets dotting the tail end of the USA.
Florida Keys & Key West: What to Do
In Key West, go on an unforgettable sandbar and kayak excursion through crystal clear waters, explore the Floridian coast on jet skis, watch a mesmerizing open sea sunset from the deck of an elegant 105-foot schooner or toast to your tropical getaway on this sunset champagne catamaran cruise.
On land, get your Old Town crash course on this hop-on, hop-off sightseeing trolley ticking off 13 stops. The first stop is Mallory Square, which happens to be right next to Key West’s Shipwreck Treasure Museum – don’t skip it. Once you have your bearings, delve further into island life on this guided bicycle tour, food & culture walking tour or craft cocktail crawl. Those looking to explore Key West’s darker side can even join this ghosts & gravestones trolley tour.
In Key Largo, you can snorkel two coral reefs, paddle through mangroves (and spot manatees) on a guided kayak eco-tour, or glide along the water on a 6-person floating tiki bar. In Islamorada, this 3-hour sandbar tour is fun, kitschy and private for you & your crew only, and in Marathon, go all in with this private Florida Keys fishing experience.
Florida Keys & Key West: Where to Eat
Epicureans are spoilt for choice when it comes to the Florida Keys culinary scene, and no one will blame you for eating your way, literally, through the islands. In Key West, head to El Meson de Pepe for Cuban conch cuisine, Santiago’s Bodega for global small plates, Café Marquesa for inventive New American fare, and Blue Heaven. The latter, a Key West landmark churning out island-inspired fare and key lime pie in a funky setting. Don’t miss Sunset Pier for live music, casual seafood and sundowners, or Latitudes – romantic fine dining on a private island only accessible by boat.
In Key Largo, The Fish House, Alabama Jack’s and Key Largo Conch House (of Food Network fame) should all be on your list. In Islamorada, dine toes-in-the-sand at Morada Bay, Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar or Tiki Bar (at Postcard Inn Beach Resort) or go dockside at Wahoo’s Seafood Bar & Grill – boat parking is free. Culinary cravings in Marathon can be cured at Sparky’s Landing, The Stuffed Pig or Irie Island Eats, while Mangrove Mama’s and Kiki’s Sandbar & Grill are easy go-to’s in the Lower Keys.
Florida Keys & Key West: Where to Stay
The Florida Keys may as well be a treasure trove of dreamy tropical escapes. In Key West, top check-ins include Ocean’s Edge Resort & Marina, Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa and Kimpton Ridley House. Opal Key Resort & Marina and Parrott Key Hotel & Villas are also fabulous, while Sunset Key Cottages boasts an exclusive location on its own private island.
At the northern end of the island chain, Bungalows Key Largo is an obvious choice for the adult set. The 21+ property is Florida’s only true all-inclusive resort, exudes tropical luxury and is just a 90 minute drive south of Miami Airport. Nearby, family-friendly Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton counts all-balcony rooms, a contemporary seaside aesthetic and private beachfront hugging Florida Bay.
In Islamorada you have an easy choice of Cheeca Lodge & Spa, home to dreamy in-balcony spa tubs and a central location, plus Amara Cay Resort or Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina.
Isla Bella Beach Resort, is your go-to in Marathon (think: all-balcony rooms, five oceanfront swimming pools and a 4,000 square foot spa).
Saving the best for last, five-star Little Palm Island Resort & Spa offers the créme de la créme of Florida Keys accommodations. The adults-only luxury stay is located on its own islet in the Lower Keys, counts just 30 exclusive one-bedroom suites (all with water views; many with outdoor copper bathtubs), a world-class spa, and fabulous dining – including a private, five-course Dinner on the Sandbar culinary experience. The place is an escapist paradise.
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