Top USA Beaches to Visit in 2026: A
Guide for UK Holidaymakers
If 2026 is the year you finally treat
yourself to that dream beach holiday, the USA has some absolute gems waiting
for you. From tropical Hawaiian hideaways to Florida’s family-friendly shores,
and even a beach perfect for the FIFA World Cup buzz, here are the top coastal
spots to add to your holiday wish-list for 2026.
Clearwater Beach, Florida
Clearwater Beach is exactly what you
picture when you think of a classic Florida beach holiday: powder-white sand,
calm turquoise waters, and plenty to see and do. It’s a brilliant choice for
families, especially if you’re planning to twin your trip with Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World. With excellent hotel options and flights to London from Tampa Airport (you
can even fly into Orlando and out of Tampa), it’s no surprise Clearwater is
often voted one of the very best beaches in the USA and beloved by UK
travellers.
Bean Point Beach, Anna Maria Island
If tranquillity and seclusion is more up
your street, Bean Point is the beach for you. Set on the quiet northern tip of Anna
Maria Island, this secluded stretch of brilliant white sand is perfect for
escaping the crowds. You might spot a couple of fishermen while you walk, but
the real magic happens at dusk. As the sun sinks into the Gulf of Mexico, the
sky turns every shade of pink, orange and gold. Speaking from experience, the
Bean Point sunsets are truly some of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen. Keep an eye
out for dolphins passing offshore for that extra bit of magic.
South Beach,
Miami
If you're heading to the USA for the FIFA World Cup in 2026, there’s no better base than Miami’s iconic South Beach. You can enjoy the
fan zones and festivities, then retreat to a huge, golden stretch of sand that
runs for more than 15 city blocks. With warm weather year-round, stylish
hotels, and glamorous nightlife, South Beach is ideal for winter sun seekers
and football fans alike.
Honokalani Beach, Maui
For something truly unique, head to Honokalani
Beach on the island of Maui. This striking volcanic black-sand beach feels like
stepping onto another planet. Set within lush jungle, it’s famous for its
seaside lava tubes and hidden sea caves carved into the coastline. It’s a
photographer’s dream and an unforgettable stop on if you’re exploring Maui’s legendary
Road to Hāna.
Kāʻanapali Beach, Maui
On Maui’s west shore, Kāʻanapali Beach
boasts three miles of pristine white sand and sparkling water as clear as
glass. This area is home to excellent resorts and offers brilliant swimming,
snorkelling, and surfing.
Waikiki Beach, Oahu
Waikiki is arguably the most famous city
beach in the world, and it lives up to its reputation. With warm, calm waters,
excellent restaurants, and postcard-perfect views of Diamond Head crater, it’s the
ideal location for your Hawaii Holiday. Stay beachfront in iconic resorts like the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki
Beach, learn to surf where the sport was born, or simply people-watch as local
surfers glide across the waves.
Lanikai
Beach, Oahu
Just a short drive from Waikiki, Lanikai
Beach feels like a hidden paradise. Often voted among the world’s prettiest
beaches, it offers soft powdery sand and crystal-clear water. The two
uninhabited Mokulua Islands sitting just offshore create a stunning backdrop; perfect
for sunrise photos, kayaking, or simply relaxing with a book under a palm tree.
Driftwood
Beach, Jekyll Island, Georgia
For a more atmospheric and
nature-focused beach experience, Driftwood Beach is wonderfully unique.
Ancient, weathered driftwood trees scatter the shoreline like sculptures,
creating an otherworldly landscape. It's peaceful, photogenic, and perfect for
long, reflective walks along Georgia’s southern coast.
Whether you’re
chasing sunsets, surf breaks, or theme-park thrills, 2026 is shaping up to be
an incredible year to explore America’s best beaches. Why not book your USA
Beach Holiday today with one of the Travel Experts at Charter Travel.