Beach woman sunbathing

Sun’s out, fun’s out – summer’s nearly here, which can only mean one thing. Beach day!

There’s nothing that screams ‘I’m on holiday!’ like crashing waves, golden shores, a cooler full of picnic snacks, and the classic ‘hot dogs or legs’ snap on your ‘gram.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to slap on the factor 50, dig out your best swimwear, and dive in to six of our favourite beaches in the United States!

1. South Beach, Miami

South beach, Miami

One word: Iconic. Immortalised in the words of the Fresh Prince himself, Miami’s a city for beach bums and party people. Roll out your towel next to the colourful beach huts and enjoy some serious rays – bonus points if you spot a celeb doing the same! If you’re feeling a little bit extra, you could even hire yourself a jet ski and skim across the Atlantic waters. Need more inspiration? View the best places to go in Miami.

2. Venice Beach, Los Angeles

Venice beach sunset

California is one of the must visit USA first time destinations. The laid-back vibes of Venice ooze L.A. cool, and strolling the boardwalk is a true City of Angels experience. Stretching about a mile and a half, check out street performers, skateboarders, musicians and artists – and grab yourself a cheesy souvenir. And once you’ve hit the sands, the fun doesn’t stop: get into a game of volleyball, watch muscle-stacked locals work out at Muscle Beach (Arnie’s old haunt) or simply enjoy a killer Cali sunset.

3. Mission Beach, San Diego

San Diego beach

There are lots of reasons to visit San Diego including the laidback lifestyle, weather and activities. San Diego’s a hotspot for watersports enthusiasts – if you fancy a spot of stand up paddleboarding, windsurfing or flyboarding, you’re in the right place! Not enough thrills for you? Pop into Belmont Park for some classic seaside amusement park fun.

4. Clearwater Beach, Florida

Clearwater beach, Florida

There are so many beaches that could have made out list in Florida, special mention to Key West! But sink your feet into the pristine white sand of Clearwater, feeling the fine, soft grains between your toes. Pure bliss. At the heart of this beautiful coastline, you’ll find lots of state parks and more coastal hotspots, where you can relax amongst the dunes and take a dip into the sparkling emerald green waters. Need more convincing? View our top reasons to travel to Florida!

5. Spencer Park Beach, Hawaii

Aloha, paradise! One of our fave beaches on the ‘Big Island’ of Hawa’ii. Top up your tan on the smooth white sand or relax with your favourite gripping in the shade of the trees. Calm waters make Spencer Park an ideal setting for some swimming or snorkelling. If sunbathing’s not your thing, get a taste of Hawaiian history at the nearby ancient temple sites of Pu’ukohola Heiau and Mailekini Heiau.

6. Malibu, California

Malibu

The setting for the original Baywatch TV series is a California classic – and in the Malibu area, you’ve got over 30 spots to choose from! Surfrider Beach is the perfect place to watch the pros catch a wave, or if you want somewhere a little quieter, check out Broad Beach or Lechuza. Be on the look out for celebs too, some of the biggest names in Hollywood live here!