The 10 best beaches in America are in these three states, according to TripAdvisor

Flip-flop season isn’t as far off as it feels, and if you’re already plotting your first proper beach day, TripAdvisor has your inspiration. The platform’s 2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Beaches rounded up millions of traveler reviews and are spotlighting the beaches that have earned the most praise from people who’ve actually been there, for swimming, sunbathing and sunset.

And, unsurprisingly, three states dominate the list of the best beaches in America: California, Florida and Hawaii. If you want reliable sun, swimmable water and postcard views, you can't miss here.

Taking the top spot is La Jolla Cove in California. Tucked beneath sandstone cliffs along the San Diego coast, this protected marine sanctuary is as much about wildlife as it is about beach towels. The water is calm enough for snorkeling and diving, and sea lions sprawl across the rocks, soaking up their own rays. Visit at low tide and you can slip into clear tidal pools; come at sunset and picnic on the cliffs as the sun sinks over the Pacific. This beach was the only U.S. beach to make in in the top ten beaches in the world, coming in at number seven.

In second place, Florida’s Clearwater Beach delivers classic Gulf Coast bliss. It's got wide, sugar-soft sand and warm turquoise water. By day, it’s tops for parasailing, jet skiing and snorkeling. By night, Pier 60 fills with street performers and sunset-watchers. There’s a small-town feel here that makes it especially good for families, with easy access to nature trails and nearby islands when you need a break from the beach.

At number three is Poipu Beach Park on Kauai’s sunny south shore. It’s a favorite for swimming, bodyboarding and snorkeling, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a Hawaiian monk seal stretched out on the sand. It’s lively without feeling overwhelming, the kind of place where you can spend an entire leisurely day in the sun.

The rest of the top 10 includes bonafide greats: Waikiki Beach for surf heritage, Siesta Beach for its powdery quartz sand and Santa Monica State Beach for big-city energy by the sea.

So if you’re chasing a top-tier U.S. beach in 2026, California, Florida and Hawaii are your best bets. Check out the rest of the best beaches here.

Top 10 Beaches in the U.S. for 2026

1. La Jolla Cov, California
2. Clearwater Beach, Florida
3. Poipu Beach Park, Hawaii
4. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
5. Lanikai Beach, Hawaii
6. Siesta Beach, Florida
7. Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, Hawaii
8. St. Andrews State Park, Florida
9. Santa Monica State Beach, California
10. Honeymoon Island State Park, Florida