Beaches are among the world’s most popular destinations. They offer a variety of water activities and also the chance to relax and soak up the sun’s rays. Crashing surf and the ebb and flow of tides is soothing, relieving the tension of modern life. Vacationers flock to beaches around the world to escape the rat-race and the Beaches of the USA are no exception.

This installment will focus on west coast beaches which offer access to the Pacific Ocean.

Coronado Beach, San Diego, California — Always among the best beaches of the USA, this particular strand is ideal for families.

Coronado Beach

Cannon Beach, Oregon — This beach has dramatic off-shore scenery in the form of sea stacks to accompany its sense of solitude.

Cannon Beach

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, south of Monterey, CA — In my estimation this is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Imagine a delightful cove with a sandy beach and a lovely waterfall spilling onto the strand.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Point Reyes National Seashore, north of San Francisco, California — This haven of crashing surf is a popular day excursion from the City by the Bay.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Ruby Beach, Olympic National Park, Washington — Within the boundaries of Olympic National Park, this pristine and solitary beach is characteristic of the coastline of the northwest.

Ruby Beach