10 Under-the-Radar Beaches in the U.S.

Trips to the beach are standard fare for most summer travelers, but crowded stretches of sand can make vacations more of a pain than a pleasure. But there are beaches that offer a peaceful retreat, allowing visitors to escape the crowds at more popular destinations. From an isolated nature retreat nestled along Virgina’s Outer Banksto a picturesque coastal village with towering seawalls in Washington, these beaches prove that bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better.

Carova Beach

It doesn’t get much more secluded than North Carolina’sCarova Beach. Tucked away in the Outer Banks, the beach is only accessible by boat or with four-wheel drive, as the area does not have paved roads. Visitors can enjoy 11 miles of tranquil shorelineand hunt for shells on pristine stretches of sand. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of wild mustangs; the horses roam freely by the ocean and through Carova’s small residential neighborhoods.

Where to Stay: There are no hotels, motels or condos in Carova, so visitors typically book vacation rental homes. Properties are rented on a weekly basis, but some last-minute reservations are accepted

Insider Tip: On a cloudy day, consider taking an excursion to nearbyCorolla and Duck. The small beach towns boast upscale shopping and restaurants, and Corolla is home to a popularlighthousethat overlooks the ocean.

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Roque Bluffs

Rustic scenery and sprawling landscapes makeRoque Bluffsone of the best little-known beach destinations in Maine. Visitors can explore 274 acres of coastal scenery, including a picturesque, half-mile pebbled beach. Take a dip in Simpson Pond, a popular watering hole, or hike along the beach’s rocky cliffs. Nature lovers will enjoy the area’s diverse wildlife, as the beach is home to a variety of birds and plant species.

Where to Stay: Roque Bluffs does not offer hotels or motels, and most visitors rent a cottage or vacation home for their stay.Sea Spray CottagesoverlookKennebec Bayand features spacious interiors and comfortable accommodations.

Insider Tip: Explore Simpson Pond and Englishman Bay by canoe or kayak. Visitors can paddle out and take in the panoramic sceneryor cast their fishing lines during the spring and summer to catch trout.

Enderts Beach

For ultimate seclusion, take a trip toEndertsBeach. Hidden away in California’sRedwood National Park, the beach features 37 miles of coastline surrounded by towering, 350-foot evergreen trees. Enderts is not the most photogenic beach; lost driftwood and tidal marshes create a decidedly rustic atmosphere. But dramatic coastlines and peaceful surroundings give the area an appeal all its own. Hike to the 500-foot overlook off Enderts Beach Trail for unparalleled views of the forest and ocean, or settle down near the coast with an afternoon picnic.

Where to Stay: For easy beach access, consider booking a room at a nearby hotel. TheBest Western Northwoods InnandCrescent Beach Moteloffer reasonably priced rooms and oceanfront views.

Insider Tip:Visit Enderts in the early spring or winter months to watchmigrating whalesalong the beach’s Pacific waters.

Dry Tortugas

Only accessible by boat or plane, theDry Tortugasof Florida offer a peaceful getaway from the mainland’s hustle and bustle. The park is located 70 miles off the shoreofKey West, and consists of seven small islands and a sprawling coral reef. History buffs can explore Fort Jefferson, a nineteenth-century building that once held political prisoners. For epic snorkeling and diving, head to offshore coral heads. The colorful reefs are home to brain coral, swaying sea fans, and tropical fishand include sandy spots to rest and take in the sun.

Where to Stay: The best way to enjoy all that Dry Tortugas has to offer is by reserving an overnight camping spot. Visitors can explore the beaches at their leisureand take in the surroundings from dawn to dusk. But come prepared—there’s no freshwater supply on the island, and you must carry off whatever you bring to the beach.

Insider Tip: Bird lovers will enjoy Dry Tortugas’ extensive nesting sites. The park boasts nearly 300 species of birds and more than 100,000 nesting sooty terns. Make sure to stop by Bush Key during the winter months, as the site is closed to foot traffic during nesting season.

Sandbridge Beach

Most beachgoers have heard ofVirginia Beach, but few are familiar with its tiny neighbor to the south. Located 15 miles from the resort area,Sandbridgefeatures pristine dunes and secluded beaches away from the Virginia Beach crowds. Visitors can explore the marshes and open waters ofBack Bay National Wildlife Refugeor kayak and hike throughFalse Cape State Park.

Where to Stay: Visitors won’t find large resorts or hotels in Sandbridge, as larger properties are concentratednorth of the beach. Consider renting a beach house or condo for cozy lodgings and easy access to the water.

Insider Tip: One of the best ways to explore Sandbridge and the surrounding area is by bike. Pedal through the neighboring wildlife refuge for up-close looks at native plants and animals, or take a daytrip to the state park for picnicking and water sports.

For the rest of the best under-the-radar beaches in the U.S., like Washington’s Second Beach with its dramatic bluffs and emerald green surroundings, visit Fodor’s.