10 Most Crowded Beaches in America, Plus Interesting Facts About Why We Love the Beach So Much

Summer is just around the corner, and many Americans are getting ready for their next beach trip. However, few people enjoy extra busy beaches, even if there’s a good reason why tourists flock to them.

Researchers with vacation rental company Florida Panhandle discovered the most crowded beaches in the United States. Many of the beaches on this list feature breathtaking coastlines, easy access, and fantastic amenities. It’s no wonder why tourists and locals alike can’t stay away from these beaches. 

Finding the Busiest Beaches 

Florida Panhandle analyzed 450 of the most popular beaches in the U.S. based on reviews that mentioned how “busy” the coastline was. Researchers analyzed TripAdvisor reviews in October 2023 and reported the results via USA Today. 

1: Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

Waikiki Beach in Honolulu is the most crowded beach in America. It’s easy to see why, given that it offers beach-friendly weather year-round. Waikiki is easy to access from the resorts that surround its shoreline, making it a popular pick for tourists. Just over 13% of reviewers mentioned how busy the beach was. 

2: Manatee Public Beach, Florida

Manatee Public Beach is a 7-acre stretch of white sands in Holmes Beach, Florida. Its convenient beachside facilities and warm water make it a favorite for both locals and tourists. Nine percent of reviewers noted the constant crowds. 

3: Golden Gardens Park, Washington

Sandy beaches in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) are rare gems, which might be why Golden Gardens Park attracts so many crowds. If the weather is nice, expect to find locals and tourists flocking to this PNW beach, where they can enjoy water views, sandy shores, and picturesque hiking. Just over 8% of Golden Gardens Park reviewers commented on the beach’s crowds. 

4: Main Beach, California

Main Beach, located in Laguna Beach, might be the most iconic part of Southern California’s coastline. You’ve probably seen its pristine blue surf, soft sands, and energetic boardwalk in more than one movie or show. Just over 7% of reviewers complained about the crowds. 

5: Arroyo Burro County Beach Park, California

Stunning bluffs lined with towering palms and a tide-pool etched shore make Arroyo Burro County Beach Park in Santa Barabara, California, a popular destination. Paddle boarders, beach explorers, and dog owners adore this pup-friendly beach, which may be why just over 7% of reviewers discussed how busy it was.  

6: Mission Beach, California

Mission Beach in San Diego is a popular destination. The one-mile stretch of white sands inside sheltered Mission Bay is lined with hotels and resorts that cater to tourists and large events. It’s gorgeous, but according to Florida Panhandle researchers, 6.96% of reviewers complained about the crowds. 

7: Magic Sands, Hawaii

Magic Sands is prone to crowds in part because of its size. This tiny beach in Kahaluu-Keauhou is a favorite for swimmers in summer, though it’s prone to winter swells. That doesn’t stop tourists from flocking to the area at all times of the year, though, as noted by 6.72% of reviewers. 

8: Moonlight State Beach, California

Just north of San Diego is the town of Encinitas, home to Moonlight State Beach. While locals used to use this stunning spot for moonlight picnics, the public beach now closes at dusk. Still, it seems many locals and tourists are happy to enjoy it during the day, as 6.66% of reviewers said it was busy. 

9: Silver Beach County Park, Michigan

Silver Beach County Park sits at the mouth of the St. Joseph River along Lake Michigan. It welcomes fishers, swimmers, and sun-seekers all summer long, and it’s anything but quiet during that time. As 6.49% of reviewers noted, this is one busy beach. 

10: Clearwater Beach, Florida

Azure waters, soft sands, and extensive facilities, including a full playground for littles, make Clearwater Beach a sought-after destination. The warm and calm waters make it perfect for a family vacation, but as 6.35% of reviewers discussed, all of these features also attract crowds. 

Beach Benefits 

Many Americans seek out beaches for their vacation. According to a report by NBC News, there are several real reasons for this. It turns out the beach provides well-researched mental health benefits. 

The Color Blue

One clinical psychologist interviewed by NBC News said just looking at the blue water is enough to incite benefits. Blue can invoke a sense of calm and at least one study shows it may spark creativity. 

Ebb And Flow 

Listening to the ebb and flow of the waves may help beachgoers enter a meditative state, according to the NBC News report. The soothing sounds can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping you to relax. 

Ocean Breeze

The smell of the ocean breeze also does something to your brain. NBC News notes that ocean air has more negative ions, which may have a positive effect on mental health. At least one study shows breathing air like this could treat seasonal affective disorder. 

Feet in the Sand

Burying your feet in the sand tends to bring relaxation. Its warmth and soft feel can promote a sense of calm. NBC News notes the physical sensation of sand beneath your toes can make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.  

Possible Placebo 

Of course, it could be that the benefits of the beach are at least partially in our heads. Researchers speaking with NBC News noted that Americans are conditioned to think of the beach as peaceful, thanks to decades of tranquil media portrayals.  

Americans Love the Beach

Whether the benefits of the beach are in our heads or real, Americans can’t get enough of their coastal shorelines. Reef, a surf and beach footwear company, recently surveyed Americans about their beach affinities. They reported the results through PR Newswire. 

More Than Coffee

According to the Reef survey, Americans may love the beach more than they love their morning caffeine. Over half of the survey respondents said they would happily give up coffee for the summer if that were the only way they could get to the beach. 

Don’t Even Need To Get In 

Many Americans don’t even feel the need to soak in the salty waters. Reef’s survey showed most beachgoers want to take a leisurely walk or sit and listen to the waves. 

The Gender Divide

While both men and women enjoy the beach, Reef’s survey revealed there’s a gender divide. Men were more likely to prefer a party atmosphere at the beach, while women were more likely to long for empty shores. 

Avoiding Crowds 

For those who prefer a less crowded beach experience, there are a couple of hacks you can use. With just a little planning, you might be able to score some beach-time solitude. 

Midday Friday Trick 

At large, resort-studded beaches, most tourists check in and out of their hotels on Friday. People typically check out by 10 a.m., and newcomers can’t check in until three or four. That means Friday mid-afternoon hours tend to be quieter. 

Seek Secluded Alternatives 

Skipping the most popular beach locations is a great way to avoid the crowds. Many gorgeous shorelines stay quiet because they’re slightly off the beaten path. Places like Second Beach in Washington and Hideaways Beach in Kauai, Hawaii, remain quiet, hidden gems because they’re not as easy to access. 

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