Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

Burlington Bay in Minnesota Has Clear Waters That Rival the Caribbean

Explore the clear waters in Burlington Bay, Two Harbors, Minnesota, that rival the colors of the Caribbean. This underrated beach is perfect for kayaking and agate hunting.

Discover New Hampshire’s Hidden Islands That Feel Tropical

Islands in New Hampshire with Caribbean-like waters? Believe it or not, it feels like it every summer—and the weather is getting ready to welcome you.

Treasure Island Beach in Southern California Has Clear Waters That Rival the Caribbean

The clear waters at Southern California's Treasure Island Beach offer a stunning stretch of coastline with calm coves, dramatic rock formations, and postcard-worthy views.

Why Locals Love Waialea Bay in Hawai’i for Summer Swimming

Tucked along the sun-drenched Kohala Coast, Waialea Bay Beach is known for its crystal-clear water, calm summer surf, and peaceful shoreline near Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, making it one of the Big Island’s most underrated spots for swimming and snorkeling.

North Beach in Maryland Is a Hidden Gem With Calm Bay Waters

Dreaming of a coastal-style vacation for summer? The calm bay waters in North Beach, Maryland is calling your name.

I Dug My Own Dinner on the Northern California Coast—Here’s What Happened

What started as a simple beach day turned into one of the most unforgettable meals I’ve ever had. Here’s what it’s really like to dig your own dinner along the rugged Northern California coast.

Low Tide Lessons: Seaweed Foraging Adventure on California’s Sonoma Coast

Join a small group of curious foragers on Sonoma’s rugged shoreline, where seaweed expert Heidi Herrmann teaches how to harvest the ocean’s bounty—and gratitude—with care and respect.

Best State Park Beaches in Mississippi to Visit to Close Out Summer

Say goodbye to summer with a beach day at these Mississippi state parks, and enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping, too.

5 Best State Park Beaches in Maryland to Visit to Close Out Summer

Luckily, we still have some time to enjoy at the beach, and what better place than at one (or more) of the best state park beaches in Maryland?

Best State Park Beaches in Rhode Island to Visit to Close Out Summer

We still have plenty of summer days to spend at the beach, soaking up the last of the summer sun on the sand, so let's spend an afternoon at one of Rhode Island's best state park beaches.

5 State Park Beaches in New York to Visit to Close Out Summer

Fall in love with The Empire State’s abundance of elite oceanside and lakefront sandy shores.

Best State Park Beaches in Massachusetts to Visit to Close Out Summer

As summer comes to a close, we still have time to soak up the last of the season's sunshine and splendor with an afternoon at one of the best state park beaches in Massachusetts.

Best State Park Beaches in Connecticut To Visit To Close Out Summer

Make the most of the season! Explore Connecticut’s state park beaches for swimming, picnics, and family fun before summer winds down.

Best State Park Beaches in Northern California To Visit To Close Out Summer

Spend your last few days of summer splashing in the waves and running on the sand.

Get to Know America’s National Rivers

Explore the beauty of our National Rivers, where safeguarded waters wind through breathtaking scenery and serve as essential habitats for countless plants and wildlife.

Best State Park Beaches in Ohio to Visit to Close Out Summer

Say goodbye to summer in the best way with a beach day at these dreamy destinations in Ohio.

10 State Park Beaches in Alaska To Visit Before Summer Is Over

With 34,000 miles of coastline, Alaska has more than its fair share of incredible beaches, from unique black sand surf spots to icy shorelines that boast glacier views.

The 5 Best State Park Beaches in Wisconsin to Visit to Close Out Summer

These Wisconsin beaches are ideal for those last few beach days of summer.

Best State Park Beaches in North Carolina to Visit to Close Out Summer

These state park beaches in North Carolina are just perfect for an end-of-summer day trip.

4 Beautiful Alabama State Park Beaches to Visit Before Summer Ends

Visit the best Alabama state park beaches for an end-of-summer adventure—these oceanside and lakeside spots are perfect for swimming and relaxing.