Top 11 Hidden Beaches in the U.S. for 2025
Let’s face it, there’s nothing worse than planning the perfect beach getaway only to find yourself elbow-to-elbow with crowds at America’s most famous coastal destinations. Well, we’ve found the top secluded beaches in the U.S. for the Summer.
Of course, South Beach in Miami or Jacob Riis Park in New York are great places to rub shoulders with folks and their friends, but if you’re looking for something more secluded, where you can relax, rejuvenate, connect with nature and find some privacy, you might want something more secluded.
2025 is all about escaping the noise and finding America’s most peaceful, secret beaches. While everyone else is fighting for space at the famous beaches, savvy travelers can discover the authentic American coast that locals have cherished for generations.
The team at BoatBooker analyzed Google Maps data to uncover America’s best-kept coastal secrets. By searching for “secluded beaches,” “hidden beaches,” and “quiet beaches” and focusing on locations with fewer than 100 reviews, they identified the nation’s most pristine, uncrowded beach destinations that locals have been keeping to themselves.
It urns out that America’s most tranquil beach spots are not along the renowned resort communities but in state parks, nature reserves, and little seashore towns from the ocean to the shining sea—spots where sand remains puffy, water glassy, and the only sound that will shatter the stillness is the crashing surf.
For example, South Carolina dominates America’s hidden beach rankings with 5 locations in the top 10, including the #1 spot (Vereen Memorial Park), proving the Palmetto State offers world-class alternatives to crowded tourist destinations.
Shop for accommodation in the Outer Banks, North Carolina here.
California claims 3 coveted spots in the top 10, spanning from San Diego’s Torrey Pines City Beach to Orange County gems like Dana Strands Beach and Pirates Cove Beach, demonstrating the Golden State’s incredible coastal diversity beyond famous beaches.
North Carolina secures 2 hidden gems in the top rankings, including Caswell Beach and Ocean Isle Beach, showing the state’s coast offers much more than just tourist hotspots.
Shop for accommodation in South Carolina here.
New Jersey surprises with Gunnison Beach at Sandy Hook claiming the #3 position, proving that exceptional hidden coastal experiences aren’t limited to traditional beach destinations.
State and national parks feature prominently, with protected areas like Edisto Beach State Park providing some of the most pristine and uncrowded beach experiences in America.
“When beaches become overcrowded, families sacrifice the calm, restorative experience they are looking for,” says Vukan Simic, BoatBooker founder and travel expert. “The beauty is not wasted for that particular instance, but for all travelers who rely on genuine coastal experiences for their well-being.”
Top 11 Hidden Coastal Spots in the U.S.
| Rank | Attraction | City / Locality | State | Rating | Reviews | Score |
| 1 | Vereen Memorial Park | Little River | South Carolina | 4.9 | 98 | 91.55 |
| 2 | Driftwood Beach | Edisto Island | South Carolina | 4.9 | 97 | 90.9 |
| 3 | Gunnison Beach | Sandy Hook | New Jersey | 4.9 | 96 | 90 |
| 4 | Morris Island | Near Charleston | South Carolina | 4.9 | 90 | 89.1 |
| 5 | Torrey Pines City Beach | San Diego (La Jolla) | California | 4.9 | 77 | 84 |
| 6 | Caswell Beach | Caswell Beach | North Carolina | 4.9 | 72 | 82 |
| 7 | Dana Strands Beach | Dana Point | California | 4.9 | 72 | 82 |
| 8 | Pirates Cove Beach | Newport Beach | California | 4.9 | 72 | 82 |
| 9 | Station 22 – Public Beach Access | Sullivan’s Island | South Carolina | 4.9 | 68 | 80 |
| 10 | Edisto Beach State Park Campground | Edisto Beach | South Carolina | 4.8 | 96 | 79.55 |
| 11 | Ocean Isle Beach | Ocean Isle Beach | North Carolina | 4.8 | 96 | 79.55 |
What makes these hidden American spots special?
- Most are protected by state or national park systems, ensuring pristine conditions
- Many offer unique features like maritime forests, lighthouse views, and wildlife viewing
- Several provide excellent amenities while maintaining their uncrowded character
- Perfect for experiencing authentic regional coastal cultures from the Carolinas to California
- Perfect ratings of 4.8-5.0 stars prove these hidden spots deliver exceptional experiences despite having fewer than 100 reviews each
Simic concludes: “America’s coast offers unparalleled diversity beyond the tourist beach resorts. America’s off-the-beaten-path coastline offers the authentic American beach experience, the one that travelers are seeking—unspoiled waters, stunning scenery, and the freedom to truly get close to the natural wonders of our country.”
For more secluded beach ideas and to browse accommodation go here.
