Dreaming of a summer beach escape? Dive into my list of the best US beaches in July, offering cool breezes, exciting activities, and the perfect beach vacation for any style!
It’s finally summer! It’s time to hit the beaches and enjoy some fun in the sun – you’ve earned it!
Buuuut.. with so many options all over the country, where’s the best spot to go? That’s where I come in.
I have a list of US beaches that are perfect for July – for every type of beach-goer! Whether you’re heading on a family vacation, a friend’s trip, or even a solo getaway for some vitamin sea, I got you covered.
In my list, I’ve included the BEST – as in beautiful beaches, bearable weather, fun activities, and easy to get to.
You’ll notice I don’t have many beaches in the South or in Florida. The heat there is just not. cute. Plus it’s hurricane season in July so the weather is a crap shoot.
But for anyone who actually loves sweltering heat (can’t relate), I still included a few beaches on the Gulf Coast. I still love you even if you’re a little weird.
With all that being said, take a look at my list of the best US beaches in July!
Key Takeaways
- July is the peak of summer, so it’s the warmest time to visit the best beaches in the U.S.A.
- Since school is out, this is a popular time to travel with kids
- Prices may be high in beach towns since July is such a popular month
Table of Contents
Best US Beaches in July
You’ll find beaches in a variety of states on my list. The Hawaiian Islands will give you the perfect beach vacation – warm (but not too warm) temperatures, gorgeous beaches, and endless activities, but at the highest price point.
California’s time to shine is in July! While the temperatures are always pretty great, July and August are when it’s warm enough to actually get into the ocean. But California also offers SO much outside of the beach too! While a bit on the expensive side, you can find something in your budget.
The East Coast beaches vary from ritzy Cape Cod to good-old-fashioned fun in Virginia Beach. Pick your type of fun! And lastly, the Gulf Coast beaches for anyone who likes it HOT hot.
Best Hawaiian Beaches to Visit in July
1. Ka'anapali Beach, Maui
Average temperature in July: 84 High / 76 Low
A previous winner for America’s Best Beach, Ka’anapali Beach has beautiful golden sands, clear waters, and a fun vibe in the Pacific Ocean. There are seven resorts that line the beach plus a neighboring mall and many restaurants and activities around. So, if you want action, this is your spot.
Snorkeling is excellent around Black Rock, especially at the north end of the beach. I saw every single color of fish when I went! You can also visit the booths along the beach and sign up to go parasailing, windsurfing, jet skiing, on a boat, or sign up for surfing lessons.
Read my list of the best things to do in Maui by clicking here!
Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, parasailing, whale watching, luau, jet skiing, cliff diving
Amenities: Restrooms, lifeguards, shops nearby
How to Get There: Drive north from Lahaina
Parking: Parking – $2 per 30 minutes
- Duke’s Beach House ($$)
- Hula Grill Kaanapali ($$)
- Leilani’s on the Beach ($$$)
➡️ Check out this 5-star snorkel tour!
Awarded the Badge of Excellence, this 2.5 hour tour takes you to an underwater reef with beverages included.
2. Hanalei Bay, Kauai
Average temperature in July: 85 High / 70 Low
On the north, quieter side of Kauai is Hanalei Bay. It’s a huge bay with a beautiful mountain backdrop. The beach is wide, two miles long, with white, powdery sands. The water is clear and warm, making it one of the best Kauai beaches.
There is a long pier to walk out on to really see the views. Restrooms, lifeguards, and picnic tables on site and rental shops and dining options within walking distance.
You’ll really feel like you’re on a tropical vacation on the North Shore. It’s peaceful, incredibly lush, with plenty of gorgeous beaches to visit—and a lot less crowds than the south.
Activities: Surfing, fishing, hiking, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding
Amenities: Restrooms, lifeguards, showers, seasonal food concessions, picnic tables
How to Get There: Take HI-50 W from the Lihue Airport
Parking: Three paid parking areas (prices vary) and free street parking nearby
- Tahiti Nui ($$)
- Ama Restaurant ($$$)
- Bar Acuda ($$$)
- Aston Islander on the Beach ($$)
- Westin Princeton Ocean Resort Villas ($$$)
- Hanalei Bay Resort ($$$)
- Check out more options for where to stay in Kauai
3. Hapuna Beach, Big Island
Average temperature in July: 86 High / 71 Low
Not only one of the best US beaches in July,Hapuna Beach is regularly voted among the best beaches in the world! It’s roughly 200 feet wide and stretches for about a half mile. It’s a breathtaking beach with pure white sand and a gradual slope into the ocean.
Besides being beautiful, the beach has everything you will need. There are restrooms, picnic tables, beach and gear rentals, food concession stands, lots of trees for shade, lifeguards, and a large parking lot. Snorkeling is good on the north and south sides too.
I absolutely loved my time on this beach, I stayed for almost the full day! (And the fish tacos at the food stand were delish!)
Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, bodyboarding, whale watching, hiking
Amenities: Restrooms, outdoor showers, lifeguards, picnic areas, food concessions
How to Get There: Drive north of Kailua Kona
Parking: $10 parking fee
- Meridia ($$$)
- Halani ($$$)
- Naupaka Beach Grill ($$)
➡️ Check out this 5-star Night Manta Ray Adventure tour!
Take a short cruise at sunset to swim with manta rays! All equipment and light refreshments are included.
And if you don’t see any manta rays, they’ll book you on another tour for free.
4. Waimea Bay, Oahu
Average temperature in July: 86 High / 69 Low
If you want a quieter beach experience on Oahu, head to the North Shore. And once you’re on the North Shore, Waimea Bay Beach is THE beach to visit.
It’s one of the most beautiful islands not only on the island, but probably in all of Hawaii! The water is crystal clear with amazing views everywhere you look, plus there are fun activities like cliff jumping!
On the North Shore, you’ll be near countless other amazing beaches, the Dole Plantation, Waimea Falls, and the famous Polynesian Cultural Center (that you MUST visit!)
Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, cliff jumping, surfing, exploring
Amenities: Restrooms, lifeguards, showers, picnic tables
How to Get There: Drive a few miles north of Haleiwa
Parking: Paid ($10 – $20) and free parking options nearby
- Waimea Falls Grill ($)
- Banzai Sushi Bar ($$$)
- Jorge’s Mexican Restaurant ($$-$$$)
➡️ Check out this 5-star surf lesson on the North Shore of Oahu!
This Badge of Excellence surf lesson is two full hours and family friendly too, so bring the kids!
Best California Beaches to Visit in July
5. Santa Monica Beach, Los Angeles
Average temperature in July: 70 High / 62 Low
Santa Monica is the quintessential SoCal beach town. It has beautiful beaches, delicious dining, tons of events, shopping, and just an overall fun, vibrant atmosphere along the west coast.
Santa Monica Beach is three miles long and it’s also very wide. It’s split into three different beaches. There’s so much to do, making it one of the best California beaches.
Santa Monica Beach is the active area next to the famous Pier. You’ll see muscle beach and a set of aerial rings. Ocean Park Beach is further south and is a pretty active area with volleyball nets, beach tennis, surfing, and beach loungers. South Beach is less crowded and more of a local beach near downtown.
There are plenty of restaurants, rental shops, and playgrounds just steps away.
Read my full guide to Santa Monica, including 19 things to do, by clicking here!
Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, surfing, Santa Monica Pier
Amenities: Restrooms, paved walkways, benches, public art, volleyball courts
How to Get There: Drive west from Los Angeles
Parking: Paid parking lots (prices vary) and street parking
- Blue Plate Taco ($$)
- Bubba Gump Shrimp ($$)
- Back on the Beach Cafe ($$)
- Santa Monica Hotel ($)
- Shore Hotel ($$)
- Hotel Casa Del Mar ($$$)
6. Pismo State Beach, Pismo Beach
Average temperature in July: 71 High / 53 Low
The central coast of California doesn’t get as much attention as the other sides, but it should! Pismo Beach is a charming little beach town in the middle of San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Pismo State Beach has it all. A wide beach with soft, golden sands, a playground, a variety of restaurants and shops, and amazing hotels steps away. Nearby, there are plenty of parks (even ones on top of cliffs!), a famous monarch butterfly grove, sand dunes, and tons of outdoor activities.
For more help with your vacation planning, check out the best things to do in Pismo Beach.
Activities: Swimming, surfing, fishing, camping, hiking, bird watching
Amenities: Restrooms, showers, benches, volleyball courts, walking trails
How to Get There: Located in the town of Oceano, right off the highway
Parking: Paid parking ($2 to $5 per hour with free parking hours)
- Ventana Grill ($$)
- Cracked Crab ($$$)
- Giuseppe’s Cucina Italiana ($$)
7. Main Beach, Santa Cruz
Average temperature in July: 74 High / 53 Low
Santa Cruz is a classic California beach town with a relaxed vibe. I’ve visited many times in the summer since I live near it, and every time I discover something new.
Main Beach offers something for everyone. The beach itself is huge, lined with volleyball nets, kayak and paddle board rentals, surfers, and has food options nearby. But the most exciting part is the famous Santa Cruz boardwalk – a huge amusement park right on the beach.
Biking is the best way to get around and you’ll want to rent one to get around town. You’ll love coasting around enjoying the beach vibes all around town!
Check out the best things to do in Santa Cruz for more vacation planning ideas.
Activities: Beach volleyball, swimming, surf lessons, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Amenities: Lifeguards, restrooms, amusement park, outdoor showers, volleyball courts
How to Get There: Take Highway 17 or Highway 1, following signs for Santa Cruz Beach
Parking: Paid parking (prices vary)
- Beach Street Inn and Suites ($)
- Dream Inn ($$)
- Seascape Beach Resort ($$$)
8. Coronado Central Beach, San Diego
Average temperature in July: 75 High / 66 Low
Coronado Beach is pretty famous—it was voted #1 beach in America by Dr. Beach, top US beaches on TripAdvisor, and even featured in the old film “Some Like it Hot.”
It’s a picturesque California beach town. It’s long and wide and even sparkles due to the mineral mica in the sand. There are beach chairs and cabanas, volleyball, firepits, tidepools, and calm waves for swimming or boogie boarding. Orange Avenue, full of restaurants and shops, is just a stroll away.
Read my full guide to San Diego by clicking here!
Activities: Kayaking, swimming, paddleboarding, hiking, biking
Amenities: Lifeguards, restrooms, volleyball courts, ADA accessibility
How to Get There: From San Diego, drive across the San Diego-Coronado Bridge
Parking: Paid public parking (prices vary) and free public parking
- The Henry ($$)
- Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill ($$$)
- Miguel’s Cocina ($$)
9. South Bay Beaches, Los Angeles
Average temperature in July: 76 High / 63 Low
Los Angeles South Bay beaches, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach, offer the laid-back California vibe in their own distinct ways. And they’re all connected by a bike path called The Strand, so getting to each of them is easy!
They share the same beautiful stretch of sand, tall palm trees, and lifeguard stations. Each of them has their own bustling boardwalk area— Manhattan Beach is a bit ritzy, Hermosa Beach is a vibrant boho chic, while Redondo is down-to-earth casual.
The best part about the South Bay is that it’s so walkable. Wherever you stay you’ll be minutes away from exceptional dining, shopping, treats, culture, events, you name it.
Read over my top things to do in Hermosa Beach here!
Activities: Swimming, surfing, biking, walking
Amenities: Varies between beaches (often includes restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby shopping)
How to Get There: Drive a couple miles south of LAX
Parking: Paid parking lots (prices vary)
- Eat at Joe’s ($)
- Jame ($$$)
- The Strand House ($$$)
10. Main Beach, Newport Beach
Average temperature in July: 72 High / 64 Low
One of my favorite beaches on the list! Newport Beach is 10 miles of soft, sandy beaches with an exciting atmosphere perfect for any type of beach trip.
The beach buzzes with energy – there are volleyball nets set up, kayak rentals, and beachfront restaurants that line the sand. Master surfers can head to The Wedge for monstrous waves, while families can enjoy the playground right on the sand.
Become a kid again at Balboa Fun Zone, a small amusement park with rides and classic games. Or you can just stroll along the pier or boardwalk and take in all of the beauty. There’s something for everyone here!
Activities: Swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, whale watching
Amenities: Restrooms, showers, lifeguards, picnic tables
How to Get There: Drive about a half hour south of the Santa Ana airport
Parking: Paid parking (prices vary)
Nearby Lodging:
- Hyatt Regency Newport Beach ($$)
- Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas ($$$)
- Newport Beach Hotel ($$)
- Check out more beachfront Newport Beach Hotels
Best Beaches to Visit in July on the East Coast
11. Cape Cod Beaches, Massachusetts
Average temperature in July: 79 High / 64 Low
If you want to experience classic New England charm, Cape Cod is your spot. There are hundreds of miles of different beaches spanning the shoreline, along with a beautiful landscape, rich history, and amazing seafood.
There are different beaches for whatever you are looking for on your vacation. Families will like Mayflower Beach and Veterans Park Beaches, while Nauset Beach’s strong waves are great for surfing and boogie boarding. Coast Guard Beach is regularly on Dr. Beaches best beaches list, but note that you’ll need to take a tram to the beach from a parking lot in the summer.
Activities: Swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, exploring, observing wildlife
Amenities: Restrooms, showers, lifeguards, concessions
How to Get There: Drive down from Boston (or take a ferry or train)
Parking: Paid parking (prices vary and certain hours are free)
- Land Ho! ($$)
- The Marshside ($$$)
- Cafe Heaven ($$)
Nearby Lodging:
12. Ocean City Beach, Maryland
Average temperature in July: 81 High / 69 Low
Ocean City is known for its 10 miles of beaches and lively boardwalk, making it a popular family vacation spot in the summer months.
The downtown area is vibrant and fun with the 3-mile long boardwalk, plenty of fun water activities and tours, events, and beach amenities like lifeguards and public restrooms.
Don’t worry about crowds though – as you go past the downtown beaches, you’ll see less crowds and hotels. If you REALLY want to get away, Assateague Island offers a secluded option.
Activities: Surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, exploring
Amenities: Restrooms, lifeguards, boardwalk access
How to Get There: Drive south of Delaware, following Maryland Route 90 to Ocean City
Parking: Paid (prices vary) and free parking lots available
- Ropewalk Ocean City ($$)
- The Bayside Skillet ($)
- Sunset Grille ($$)
Nearby Lodging:
13. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Average temperature in July: 85 High / 72 Low
Delaware’s most visited city, Rehoboth Beach is a quintessential beach town experience and has everything you need for a fun family vacation.
There’s a mile-long boardwalk lined with restaurants and shops, an amusement park, free summer concerts at the bandstand, and water sports like kayaking. The beach is 2 miles long so you’ll have plenty of room to find space, plus amenities like lifeguards and public restrooms.
Looking for quiet instead? Head south to nearby Bethany Beach!
Activities: Swimming, kayaking, surfing, fishing, boating
Amenities: Restrooms, lifeguards, outdoor showers, boardwalk
How to Get There: Drive south from Dover
Parking: Metered parking (about $4 per hour – some hours are free)
- Victoria’s Restaurant ($$)
- Salt Air ($$$)
- Lewes Oyster House ($$$)
14. Nags Head Beach, North Carolina
Average temperature in July: 86 High / 73 Low
The Outer Banks of North Carolina are barrier islands off the coast boasting over 100 miles of open, sandy shores and seaside villages. It’s a refreshing break from the built up beach resort towns nearby.
One of the most popular beaches that make up the Outer Banks is lively Nags Head. The 12 miles of soft, light sand is the main attraction – but it offers a lot more!
Sand dunes, boutiques, surf shops, a variety of delicious bites, and even an outlet mall all make Nags Head a great summer retreat. And if you want a quieter spot, just head south – the further south you go, the less busy the beaches get!
Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, sailing, hiking, hang gliding
Amenities: Lifeguards, picnic tables, bath house, volleyball courts
How to Get There: Drive about two hours south from Virginia Beach
Parking: Free parking available (fills up fast during busy seasons)
15. Oceanfront Resort Beach, Virginia
Average temperature in July: 87 High / 71 Low
Virginia Beach is a vibrant coastal city in Virginia, lined with over 30 miles of beaches. Whether you’re traveling with family or need a quiet escape, you’ll be able to find a beach for you.
If you want to stay in the action, Oceanfront Beach is your spot. Famous for the iconic three-mile boardwalk, this area is bustling with food, entertainment, and events with an old-timey beach feel.
The beach is wide, with soft golden sand, and the water is warm enough to swim in. There are also plenty of beach activities offered – boat tours, dolphin tours, and paddleboarding.
And if you’re in the mood for quiet, go down to secluded Sandbridge Beach. It’s picturesque and a great place for bird watching and dolphin spotting!
Activities: Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, hiking
Amenities: Public restrooms, changing rooms, showers, boardwalk
How to Get There: Drive east from the Norfolk International Airport
Parking: Paid parking lot (prices vary) and street parking
16. Jersey Shore, New Jersey
Average temperature in July: 87 High / 67 Low
Cabs are here! (IYKYK lol).
Don’t let the show fool you, the Jersey Shore offers a great summer escape for any type of vacation you’re looking for.
Families enjoy Spring Lake and Stone Harbor, boasting quaint downtown shops, parlors, and relaxed atmosphere, while Avalon and Cape May are upscale escapes with luxury accommodations, world-class dining, and great nightlife. If you want relaxation, Lavallette and Long Beach offer long stretches of sand perfect to lay out with a book.
There are plenty of activities offered like a bustling boardwalk, kayaking, paddleboarding, or exploring all of the different beach towns. And if you’re a gambler, Atlantic City is a short drive away!
Activities: Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, boating, camping, exploring
Amenities: Bath house, concessions, changing areas, first aid stations, lifeguards, amusement park
How to Get There: Drive south from New York City along the coast
Parking: Mostly free parking with some paid parking lots (prices vary)
- The Lobster House ($$)
- Captain’s Inn ($$)
- Spano’s Ristorante Italiano ($$$)
Nearby Lodging:
Best Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit in July (if you like it HOT)
17. 30A Beaches, Florida
Average temperature in July: 89 High / 76 Low
Florida’s gulf coast hides a secret: 30A Beaches! Right in between Destin and Panama City Beach, 30A offers a charming escape with pristine white sands and turquoise water. For Florida in July, it’s a cooler alternative to Miami Beach, making it one of the best gulf coast beaches.
30A isn’t just one beach – it’s a collection of unique communities. Family-friendly Seaside and Watercolor have shops, restaurants, and activities, quieter Seagrove offer relaxation, Grayton Beach is artsy and full of natural beauty with hiking trails at Grayton Beach State Park and upscale Alys Beach will make you think you’re in the Mediterranean with swaying palm trees and gorgeous architecture.
30A caters to everyone! Soak up the sun, explore charming towns, or kayak and paddleboard. Nearby Destin and Panama City Beach provide excitement, just a short drive away.
Activities: Swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, biking, dolphin watching
Amenities: Restrooms, showers, bike racks, ADA accessibility
How to Get There: Drive toward the coast from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport
Parking: Free and paid parking available (prices vary)
- Chanticleer Eatery ($$)
- Fish out of Water ($$$)
- Beach Camp Brewpub ($$)
- The Lodge 30A ($)
- The Pearl Hotel ($$)
- Watersound Inn ($$$)
18. Orange Beach, Alabama
Average temperature in July: 90 High / 74 Low
Most people don’t think of Alabama when they’re searching for a beach escape, but you should! Orange Beach is a charming, relaxing little hidden gem on Alabama’s Gulf Coast.
If you just want to get away and enjoy some tranquility, this is your spot. You can enjoy the intense beauty of the beach with its pristine white sands and clear emerald water.
If you want to get on the water, rental shops line the beach for all types of water activities. And after the beach you can head to the Wharf for all kinds of dining options, a Ferris wheel, events, an arcade, and boat tours.
Activities: Boating, fishing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming
Amenities: Restrooms, lifeguards, equipment rentals
How to Get There: Drive west along the coast from the Pensacola International Airport and the Mobile Regional Airport
Parking: Paid parking ($10 – $15)
- Coastal Orange Beach ($$$)
- Zeke’s Landing ($$$)
- The Gulf – Orange Beach ($$)
Nearby Lodging:
If you love dolphin tours—check out this highly rated dolphin tour that’s earned a Badge of Excellence by clicking here!
And if you can make it an adults-only night, try this 5-star sunset cruise on a tiki bar (where you also might spot dolphins)!
19. South Padre Island, Texas
Average temperature in July: 90 High / 78 Low
Did you know you can get tropical vibes in Texas? South Padre Island is 34 miles of light sand beach between the Gulf of Mexico and the Laguna Madre Bay. And with 300 days of sunshine, this is a great spot for a beach vacation any month.
Isla Blanca Park is known as the best beach in the area. Besides lounging on the beach, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are also popular activities. for the more adventurous, there’s beach horseback riding, jet skis, and parasailing. There are plenty of food options to choose from in the area too.
Activities: Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, jet skiing, boating
Amenities: Paved sidewalks, bike racks, restrooms, showers
How to Get There: Drive a half hour northeast from the Brownsville-South Padre Island International Airport
Parking: Paid parking (About $10)
Nearby Lodging:
FAQs: US's Best Beaches in July
Where is the best place to vacation in July?
Every state has something to offer, but beach-wise, California and Hawaii will offer you amazing beaches, terrific temperatures, and endless activities.
Is Florida too hot in July?
To put it simply, yes. The temperatures are sky high, and the humidity makes it feel much hotter. Not only is it scorching, but there are frequent rain storms during July. But if you love the extreme heat, you will enjoy Florida in July!
What beach towns aren’t packed in July?
Since July is the peak of summer, many areas on the coasts will be jam packed. Beach towns in northern and central California don’t get as busy as some other areas – plus, the weather is much cooler!
Wrapping Up: US's Best Beaches in July
Whether you want to surf in Hawaii, enjoy family activities in San Diego, or eat amazing seafood in Cape Cod, you’ll be able to find your spot this July.
While most of the country is sweltering, there are plenty of spots to give you some cool breezes. (Unless you like scorching hot weather, and there’s options for you too!)
So hurry up and get to booking!
