A new ranking placed Avalon Beach among the nation’s top 10 thanks to its scenic shoreline, uncrowded feel, and postcard-worthy views.
It might feel like summer is flying by, but that’s all the more reason to make the most of what’s left of the season. The best way to do just that? Heading to the most beautiful beaches in the United States, including one particular stretch of sand in New Jersey that’ll make you forget New York City is right around the corner.
In July, online gaming site SpinBlitz released its Beach Beauty Index, a ranking of the 10 best beaches in the nation. The team at SpinBlitz created the list after evaluating hundreds of beaches across the U.S. using AI image analysis. It measured each beach against a range of positive and negative visual characteristics, including scenic beauty, postcard-worthy views, crowd levels, and how closely each one adhered to the “Golden Ratio of Beauty.” Each beach received a score out of 10, and ultimately, Avalon Beach in New Jersey claimed the No. 7 spot overall with a score of 9.75. It’s also the only New Jersey beach to rank.
The borough of Avalon is a seaside resort town that makes up the northern five miles of New Jersey’s Seven Mile Island, which is actually about 7.5 miles long. Stone Harbor makes up the southern 2.5 miles, making it easy to find the perfect spot to spread out. If you’re going to visit, the official Avalon website notes that swimming on Avalon Beach is only permitted in protected areas where lifeguards are on duty from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., between June 5 and Aug. 15. But there’s more to this place than just the beach, with plenty of activities like charter fishing, beach yoga, and miniature golf nearby, as well as a lively waterfront packed with restaurants and shops to dip into after a day in the sun. Kayaking isn’t allowed, but there are designated areas for surfing, surf fishing, and stand-up paddle boarding.
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Several beaches across the country ranked even higher. California’s Carmel Beach in Carmel-by-the-Sea came in at No. 1, with a score of 9.96 out of 10. The team at SpinBlitz wrote that Carmel Beach “combines dramatic coastal scenery with pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters,” and that it’s known for its charming village atmosphere and breathtaking Pacific Ocean views.
Coming in at No. 2 is Acadia National Park in Maine, which nabbed a score of 9.93 thanks to its craggy coastline and fantastic views of the sea from its vast network of hiking trails.
Rounding out the top three is a perennial vacation favorite, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. A “favorite for families and holiday makers alike,” Hilton Head Island is known for its wide sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere. You’ll find miles of shoreline, cycling trails, and calm waters.
The rest of the rankings show off the wide variety of U.S. destinations with beautiful beaches across the country, including Singing Beach in Massachusetts (No. 4), Gold Beach in Oregon (No. 5), Siesta Key in Florida (No. 6), Waterford Beach Park in Connecticut (No. 8), Cape Henlopen State Park in Delaware (No. 9), and Little Compton in Rhode Island (No. 10).
Want to explore even more beautiful beaches? Don’t miss the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world—all equally worthy of your next getaway.
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