Great American Destinations:

by L.A. DiNardi

As summer end rapidly approaches, Labor Day offers one last chance to enjoy our favorite summertime spot, the beach. There is no better place to go with the family to spend the day enjoying the sun, scouring wading pools, swimming in the waves, and picnicking in the sand. However, no one likes trash filled, bacteria ridden beaches so we decided to take a look at the cleanest beaches in the United States to give you some great destination spots.

Titles you see below in BLUE are links to TripAdvisor for that particular beach.

St. Pete’s Beach in Florida is a coastal city in Pinella Country, touting some truly beautiful coastline, with crystal clear waters. A favorite tourist destination, St. Pete’s Beach has plenty of restaurants, shopping, and other attractions not to mention pristine beaches.

Ogunquit Beach in Ogunquit, Maine is an small seaside town, and boasts one of the best beaches in America. Voted in the top 25 best beaches by TripAdvisor, it is a small sandy peninsula, jutting into the Atlantic, creating a natural barrier between the ocean and the Ogunquit River.

Hunting Island State Park located in Beaufort, South Carolina is complete with nature trails, lighthouses and camping grounds. It is an outdoor haven for any nature loving family, whether you want want to body surf on the beach, hike the forest trails, or fish on the pier, there is something for everyone.

Race Point Beach named for the rip tides that pass off this section of Cape Cod in Massachusetts. The surf is a bit wild since it faces the outer Atlantic, and has steep drop off, allowing for the occasional whale to swim by and wave. With a north facing beach, it is perfect for sun worshippers, offering all day exposure.

Coronado Municipal Beach was ranked the #1 beach in America in 2012 by Dr. Beach, the Florida International University professor who evaluates the beaches by environmental factors from sand and ocean, facilities and crowds. Located in San Diego, Coronado Beach has picturesque scenery, volleyball courts, and stunning beaches. It is also home to the famous Hotel del Coronado, a popular destination for royalty, politicians, and entertainers.

No matter what part of the country you live in, there is a stellar, pristine beach for you and your family to head to over the holiday weekend, or any day. Whether you head to one of these, or one you know and love, be safe and enjoy the last of the summer rays.