Tired of fighting for personal space at the beach? If so, you’re far from alone. There’s nothing worse than scheduling a beach escape only to find yourself surrounded by crowds of people. Luckily, we’ve got good news for you: Not all beaches are mob scenes, even in the height of the summer. In fact, some destinations are still relatively undiscovered.
Let’s take a closer look at 10 of our favorite secluded beach destinations.
1. Dry Tortugas, Florida
This island park – hailed as an “overlooked gem” by USA Today – is located 70 miles off the shore of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico. It’s home to crystal blue waters, pristine stretches of sand, an amazing coral reef system, remarkable wildlife, and the historic Fort Jefferson. And because you can only get there by boat or plane, this island paradise remains one of the least-visited U.S. national parks.
2. Kauapea Beach, Kauai, Hawaii
There’s a good reason why Kauapea is nicknamed “Secret Beach” by locals. Nestled between Kilauea Point and Kalihiwai Bay, this breathtaking beach features soft sand, palm tree-lined sea cliffs, and a stunning waterfall overlooking the ocean. However, the trek to this secluded shoreline isn’t for the faint of heart – you can only get there via a steep 15-minute hike.
3. Cumberland Island, Georgia
If you’re looking to connect with nature on your beach getaway, look no further than Cumberland Island, Georgia’s largest and southernmost barrier island. Here, you can watch wild horses, deer, and even armadillos roam freely while enjoying rare surfside solitude.
4. Second Beach, Washington
Sure, you’ve got to hike to get there, but that’s one of the things that makes this gorgeous coastal spot such a secret gem. Regarded as one of the Pacific Coastline’s most scenic beaches, Second Beach offers abundant tide pools and unbelievable views. The best part? Even the parking lot that leads to the beach’s trailhead is secluded, with room for just 10 cars.
5. Carova Beach, North Carolina
If you’re planning an Outer Banks beach vacation and looking for more privacy than people, Carova Beach is an ideal sunbathing spot – as long as you’ve got a four-wheel-drive vehicle, that is. There are no paved roads leading to this southern gem, which means less accessibility to the masses and more room for you to spread out your towel.
6. Orient Beach State Park, New York
Skip the crowds at Jones Beach and plan a day at Suffolk County’s North Fork instead. Beautiful scenery, calm waters, playgrounds, and hiking trails are a few of the things you’ll find waiting for you here. And while the beach may be small, it feels much bigger when you’ve got it all to yourself.
7. Roque Bluffs, Maine
While Maine’s southern beaches may be swarming with people in the summertime, this half-mile crescent of rocky beach is known for its quiet serenity. If you’re traveling with little ones, there’s plenty here to keep them happy thanks to a pebble beach, picnic tables, and children’s play areas.
8. Point Dume State Beach, California
When you think of secluded beaches, Southern California may not be the first spot that comes to mind. However, this stretch of sand in Malibu defies expectations. If you’re up for some exercise, make sure to take the trail to the top of Point Dume, where you’ll find stunning views of sea and cityscape – and maybe even some local sea lions frolicking in the cove below.
9. Sandbridge Beach, Virginia
While Virginia Beach is known for its crowds, Sandbridge Beach, located just 15 miles away, is known for its solitude. With five miles of shoreline, you’ll have plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy some much-needed peace. You can even kayak the nearby Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which includes 9,000 acres of beaches, woodlands, and marshlands.
10. Kiawah Island, South Carolina
For those looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Charleston, Kiawah Island is the perfect escape. The island offers 10 miles of stunning coastline, undisturbed maritime forests, and plenty of opportunities to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife.
Ready to Pack Your Bags? Don’t Leave Sun Safety Behind
Sand and sun-seekers will find plenty to love about these 10 “secret” beach destinations. However, there’s a lot less to love about sunburns and sun damage. When packing for your trip, maximize your safety – and peace of mind – by stocking up on sun-protective clothing for the whole family. Cabana Life offers a wide selection of UPF 50+ beachwear, including swimsuits, cover ups, rashguards, and more. Browse our new arrivals today to find your new go-to pieces!