Top 10: Best Beaches in the US

Its day 3 of my top 10 lists and today we are discussing the top best beaches in the US. I dont want you to think that I'm just making this stuff up. I put a lot of research into todays blog. I researched articles and came up with a good list that offers something for the beach bum to the ritzier beach goddess. I have beach fever so here goes.

10. Newport Beach, CA: This wasnt chosen just because it was the backdrop for The O.C. although it did keep popping up in my mind. I've been to Newport, its one of the few beaches on this list that I have visited. Yes its pretentious and the only place I've ever seen a Maserati dealership. But the beach is gorgeous and the people are too. There is a lot to do in Newport. They have an entire "island" of fashion. Its not an actual island just in the traffic engineering variety. It is one of the wealthiest zip codes in the US but if you ever find yourself in Southern California, its a nice day trip that won't cost you much money.

9. Pawley's Island, SC: Another beach I've actually been too. What would this list be if I (a native South Carolinian) didnt mention this jewel of our fair coast. I HATE Myrtle Beach and all that it stands for. MB is a dirty and commercialized place that lacks the charm it once had. Pawleys is about 30 miles from MB and is much quieter. Pawley's has great little fish camps to eat at. They are famous for their hammocks. Any place that is known for making a great hammock is okay with me. This is a perfect destination for a beach bum



8. Half Moon Bay, CA: Now I dont surf. I tried it once and it really freaked me out. However, I LOVE to watch others surf. Half Moon Bay is strictly on the list because it serves only one purpose. Surfing. There doesnt seem to be a lot to do in this area. It is one of those places where you go for the scenery and nature. It is just south of San Francisco and continues that hippie lifestyle menality. I can imagine myself and a group of friends camping on the beach and having a bonfire. Just look at this beautiful photo.



7. Martha's Vineyard: Most of my readers have the same sense of style as I do so it wont be hard to sell them on Shep and Ian's lifestyle over at Vineyard Vines. Growing up in the South I used to dream of what it would be like to vacation on the Cape. Getting up early and riding your bike into town for breakfast. Going for a sail and going to one of the many parties that I'm sure occur in that tight knit community.

6. South Beach, FL: Want a place where there is always something to do? Do you need a vacation on a beach diverse in culture? South Beach is for you. South Beach is the only beach on the list that has excitement 24 hours a day. It is the Vegas of beaches. I also love the Art Deco Architecture.



5. Folly Beach, SC: Back to what you beach bums want. Looking for a place where shoes are always optional? Where you can bike or walk to restaurants and you are encouraged to take your dog everywhere?? Folly Beach is perfect for you. 30 minutes outside of Charleston is the quaint island of Folly. Oh yea, they have surfers too.

4. Sea Island, GA: Switching gears again to the most pretentious and exclusive island in the South. I give you Sea Island, host to the 2004 G8 summit. Sea Island is the greenest place I've ever been. It is home to The Cloister resort. The entire island is gated and the resort basically services the entire island. Tennis, Golf, Swimming, and fine dining are what make this place unique. It is all inclusive and you can hermit yourself up in one of the many beach villas that dont look like beach houses at all. Here is a photo of the cloister.



3. Palm Beach, FL: Need I say more than this is the home and inspiration to our dear friend Lilly Pulitzer. The glitz and glam of Palm Beach make it a destination by the wealthy. Its in the 90s year round here and the water is clear and blue. If you can afford to shack up here for a few days or months I'm very jealous.

2. Carmel, CA: Back to the west coast. Located near Monterey, this beach has a rich history. It also boasts some of the most unusual architecture including the fairy tale cottages. The arts and crafts movement became popular here at the turn of the century. There is an Arts and Crafts club, an ampitheater that hosts many performances, and a Symphony. This is probably the most artistic beach community in the US.

1. Kapalua, HI: If Conde Nast says this is the best beach in the World and the Best beach in the US by the Travel Channel then it must be a great beach. Located on the island of Maui Kapalua is known for its golf and beaches. There is something for everyone here. The wealthy can stay at the Ritz, the more modest folk (myself) can stay at one of the many other affordable hotels. There is snorkeling in a beautiful reef, golf, a spa, and of course volcanoes.