Make a Splash at These 5 Beaches This Summer

By Meghen Jones

Take a moment to close your eyes and imagine the sound of the ocean surrounding you on every side as the warm wind blows through your hair. You smell salt, feel the sand between your toes, and hear the joyful cries of glee from children and adults alike. Well, obviously you’re thinking of one place specifically: the beach. Let’s face it, there is nothing like the serene nature of the beach on a hot summer day.

Even though summer is halfway over, it wouldn’t be complete without at least one trip to the beach! With so many beaches across the United States to choose from, uCribs has narrowed it down to our 5 favorites, which span from East Coast to West Coast—and maybe even an island if you’re feeling extra ambitious.

Rockaway Beach

Queens, New York

70s punk group, The Ramones, might have sparked the idea in your head that you should “hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach,” and we couldn’t agree more. Located relatively close to public transit, Rockaway Beach is New York City’s top pick for a sandy, ocean-filled getaway with its nearly six-mile-long beach that provides a much-needed escape from the normal hustle and bustle of the Big Apple.

Aside from its beaches, Rockaway Beach, located on the coast of Queens, New York, boasts a laid-back vibe that is miles from the typical NYC lifestyle. Enjoy casual bars with plenty of outdoor seating, unique shops that sell rare, vintage finds, and of course, a killer art and entertainment scene, which will remind you that you’re still in the greatest city in the world. With all this being said, Rockaway Beach leaves little to be desired for the enthusiastic, last-minute vacation-goer.

Galveston Island

Galveston, Texas

When you think of Texas, what is the first thing that comes to mind? You probably think about the Dallas Cowboys, delectable, Texan-style barbecue and Tex-Mex, or an overall friendly, amiable attitude laced with Southern charm. But truth be told, Texas is also home to one of the most tranquil Gulf Coast beach retreats: Galveston Island.

Of course, in Galveston Island, you can hit the beach itself, but you can also explore the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, an amusement park with multiple rides, carnival games, and souvenir shops. Other points of interest on Galveston Island include Moody Gardens, a subtropical island destination with multiple attractions, and Bishop’s Palace, one of the most historically-significant Victorian residences in the country. Whether you’re beaching or taking advantage of the other local fun, entertainment is behind every corner on Galveston Island.

Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach, California

Do you have a knack for adventure? If you answered “yes”, then you need to make your way to Manhattan Beach. Grab your nature-loving friends and enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean where surfers catch waves, runners hit the wet, sandy shoreline, and cyclists venture to the outlying beach roads or trails such as Strand Bike Path, which boasts glimpses of the beautiful Pacific vistas.

And if that’s not enough to satisfy your need for activity, then head on over to a nearby volleyball net for a friendly match-up game right on the beach. And before the day is over, enjoy a stroll along the Manhattan Beach Pier, the oldest pier on the West Coast, which is located at the end of Manhattan Beach Boulevard with its extremely Instagram-worthy scenery. Did someone say #FOMO?

Miami Beach

Miami Beach, Florida

Whether you want to make this beach trip a simple, one-day affair or a weekend getaway, Miami Beach is one of the most diverse beaches in America with affordable restaurants, hotels, and shopping opportunities to boot—seriously, The Shops at Sunset Place is one of our favorite spots for a little retail therapy. Plus, this beach is the perfect place for those who want to experience all the vibrant culture and entertainment of Miami while being surrounded by world-famous architecture.

Feel the radiance of the sun while sitting seaside on the fine, white sand as you gaze into the crystal-clear, emerald waters of America’s Riviera. But you cannot leave Miami Beach without experiencing true Miami nightlife on Ocean Drive where buildings light up the city skyline, and everyone, whether they are a local or a tourist, comes out to play. It’s also the best time to stroll through the streets and indulge in the South Beach Art Deco Historic District. Shopping, nightlife, and a thriving art scene? Miami Beach really does have it all!

Napili Beach

Lahaina, Hawaii

There’s no better way to experience island life than by making a visit at Napili Beach—if time and money allow, of course. Napili Beach is located on western Maui, the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands. It’s the perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring a unique culture outside the typical U.S. mainland way-of-life. And while you’re at Napili Beach, feel free to catch some waves in the beautiful, blue water—it will give you bragging rights amongst friends to have experienced a true Hawaiian ocean wave!

And I mean, what’s Hawaii without trying some authentic Hawaiian cuisine? Make your way to Café Mambo in Maui to enjoy a delicious Aloha Burger, then cool down with a special, frozen treat from Aloha Island Shaved Ice. You heard us correctly! Aloha Shaved Ice offers a special take on traditional sno-cone— topped with ice-cream. Trust us, a day or five at Napili Beach will have you wanting to enjoy island life forever.

No matter your preference for vacation-style activities, budget, or overall energy levels, there’s a beach that appeals to the interests of everyone, whether they choose to focus on the unique art and vintage treasures found near Rockaway Beach, the exciting entertainment available on Galveston Island, the serene nature that surrounds you on Manhattan Beach, the prime shopping and nightlife in Miami Beach, or the exquisite dining opportunities near Napili Beach.

So, grab your sunscreen, don your favorite swimwear, and head on over to any of these beaches for a satisfying end to Summer 2018!

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