Image via Complex Original
Everyone loves the beach. Not only is there a desire to re-create ScHoolboy Q’s “Man of the Year” video inside all of us, but people love the idea of leaving their responsibilities and stress elsewhere for however long. They’ll be there when they return, but why not flee all ties that bind you for a weekend of fun? Beaches become prime real estate during summer months, as people flock to them in droves to experience the sun’s radiance, or to simply find some peace of mind. If you can feel your first-world problems beginning to get the best of you, it might be time to hit the beach. Here are 10 North American Beaches Worth a Weekend Trip.
Main Beach
Location: East Hampton, N.Y.
Main Beach is best described as “pristine,” and that’s understandable considering it’s a recreational escape for the affluent. This East Hampton wonder stands out due to the gorgeous contrast of white sand, the sky, and the ocean. That, and because it’s the lone beach with a pavilion that offers access to food. It’s very well taken care of, and rebounded amazingly from the impact of Hurricane Sandy. Its status as one of the best beaches in the country justifies the pricey and scarce parking permit passes ($25). But hey, you get what you pay for. You can also dodge that by accessing the beach by bike.
Kahanamoku Beach
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
It’s a struggle to think of Hawaii without thinking of beaches, each of which offer much of the same. Surfers will appreciate this one, as its namesake, Duke Kahanaomoku, was an Olympic medal-winning swimmer and folk legend recognized for making surfing popular with the masses. Beyond that, the man-made beach is less crowded than some of its counterparts, sports a coral reef, and is family-friendly. It’s a great all-purpose choice, and if you love surfing, you’ll love it here.
Clearwater Beach
Location: Clearwater, Fla.
Florida is home to a cluster of beaches, so it’s difficult to zero in on just one. Clearwater Beach, however, is attractive to tourists and just about everyone else because it remains true to its name. Strolling through the white sand and feeling the refreshing Gulf breeze is an amazing feeling that everyone should experience, and recent efforts to enhance the built-in aesthetical allure have only made it better.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Location: Outer Banks, N.C.
Known for that distinct, candy cane lighthouse, Cape Hatteras is a part of United States history. Back in 1953, it became the first National Seashore in America, and, at nearly 200 feet, it's the lighthouse is the tallest in the U.S. and among the tallest in the world. Cape Hatteras offers miles upon miles of space ideal for fishing, surfing, and simply observing its tranquil beauty. It’s a true gem of the South.
Coast Guard Beach
Location: Eastham, Cape Cod, Mass.
One of Cape Cod’s best, Coast Guard Beach proves that less is truly more. Though it’s likely to be crowded on summer days, that’s because multitudes of people connect to the absence of industrialization. This beach isn’t overwrought with commercialism, and it’s relieving. It’s all about the beach, the individual, and the untainted scenery. It’s great for swimming during the summer months because the sun heats the water up a bit, and the hiking trail will be adored by nature buffs.
Grand Strand
Location: Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Though it may seem like a cliché choice, Myrtle Beach is always a sound one. You know exactly what you’re getting at this man-made island built on top of a true wonder, the Grand Strand. Myrtle Beach pulls people from all walks of life—families, recent graduates seeking release, and proud bikers—all of whom are left in awe of the scale and splendor of the Grand Strand. A weekend adventure here won’t disappoint.
Long Beach
Location: Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
Long Beach—not to be confused with the LBC that Snoop often references—is the largest beach in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. One of the best surfing locales in British Columbia, it’s also worth a visit due to its topography. Aside from the peaceful view of the skyline and ocean, the sand along the shoreline is lined with driftwood and bordered by trees. It’s all worth crossing the border to behold.
Playa del Amor
Location: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Also known as “Lover’s Beach,” Playa del Amor can be found near the famed Land’s End rock formations in Cabo. They add to the beach’s cinematic scope, which, despite its relatively simple makeup, is one of the most renowned in Cabo. It’s perfect for sunbathing, and anyone who desires to venture into the water is encouraged to do so, but remain on the Bahia de Cabo San Lucas side where the tide is less intense. Regardless, this place is an oasis reminiscent of Color Me Badd’s “I Adore Mi Amore” video, and you’ll want to stick around longer they stuck around on the charts.
Resort Area Beach
Location: Virginia Beach, Va.
When you think of Virginia Beach, you think of Clipse, you think of The Neptunes, and you might even hear Wreckx-n-Effect’s “Rump Shaker” (which Pharrell co-wrote). You should get literal and actually think about the beach. The Resort Area Beach may be a tourist magnet, but if you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway, this is a safe bet. Of the three beaches that make up Virginia Beach, the Resort Area Beach is obviously the most active, and is home to an explosion of recreation. The boardwalk is an option if you want to people watch, then you can hit the actual beach for fun on the sand, which seems to extend forever.
El Matador Beach
Location: Malibu, Calif.
There are an excess of beaches in California, many of which have fallen under the popular culture spotlight. Everyone knows about Venice Beach, Laguna Beach, and even Santa Monica Beach, so why not consider an alternative? El Matador Beach is that alternative, one that’s devoid of the excess. It’s secluded, away from the glitz and glamor of L.A. and Hollywood, and home to a collection of cliffs, rocks, and nature’s creations that will make the others seem like a distant memory. If you need to elude the rigors of life (and everyone else), El Matador Beach is calling your name.